How to Ask Someone to be on Your Podcast

Inviting guests onto your podcast can elevate your content, attract new listeners, and spark fascinating conversations. However, getting those coveted “yeses” requires a thoughtful approach. Here’s a guide to help you secure those guest spots:

1. Research Your Potential Guests Thoroughly

• Know their work: Dive into their latest projects, books, articles, or social media posts. This shows genuine interest and helps you tailor your pitch.
• Understand their audience: Who do they typically speak to? This will give you a sense of whether your audiences align and if they’d benefit from being on your show.
• Check their availability: Have they been on a podcast recently? Do they have any upcoming events or launches that could make a timely tie-in to your podcast?

2. Craft a Personalized Pitch

• Subject line: Make it attention-grabbing and relevant (e.g., “Collaboration Opportunity for [Guest Name] + [Your Podcast]”).
• Opening: Start with a warm greeting, a brief introduction of yourself and your podcast, and a genuine compliment about their work.
• The “Why”: Explain why you’re reaching out to them specifically. What do you admire about their expertise or perspective? How would their insights benefit your audience?
• The Ask: Clearly state your invitation and what you envision for the episode (topic, format, length). Be flexible and open to their suggestions.
• Call to action: Suggest a few potential dates/times for a quick chat, or ask if they have a preferred way to schedule.

3. Follow Up (Politely and Persistently)

• First follow-up: If you don’t hear back within a week, send a friendly reminder email. Briefly restate your interest and offer to provide more information if needed.
• Second follow-up: If you still don’t get a response, consider reaching out on another platform (e.g., social media DM) or through a mutual connection, if you have one.
• Know when to move on: Sometimes, a guest might be genuinely busy or not the right fit. Don’t take it personally; there are plenty of other amazing guests out there!

Additional Tips:

• Offer value: Explain the benefits of appearing on your podcast (e.g., exposure to a new audience, the opportunity to discuss their passion project).
• Make it easy to say “yes”: Be clear about the commitment involved (interview length, prep time, etc.).
• Be professional: Use proper grammar and spelling, and keep your tone warm and enthusiastic.

Example Pitch (Template)

Subject: Collaboration Opportunity for [Guest Name] + [Your Podcast]

Dear [Guest Name],

I’m [Your Name], host of the [Your Podcast] podcast, where we [briefly describe your podcast’s focus]. I recently [mention a specific accomplishment or project of theirs that you admire].

I’d love to invite you onto my podcast to discuss [proposed topic]. I believe your unique perspective on [relevant aspect of their work] would be incredibly valuable to my audience of [describe your audience].

The interview would be about [length] minutes long, and we could record it at your convenience. I’m flexible with the format – we could do a live conversation, a pre-recorded interview, or whatever works best for you.

Would you be open to chatting briefly to explore this further? I’m available for a quick call on [list a few dates/times], or feel free to suggest a time that works for you.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to hearing from you!

Best regards,

[Your Name] [Your Podcast]