Ready to take your podcast to the next level? We’re here to share 13 easy methods to find amazing guests for your show.
Booking awesome podcast guests can take your show to the next level. At Earworm, we know how the right guests can make a big difference. We’ve spent years connecting podcasters with incredible guests, and we want to share what we’ve learned with you.
In this guide, we’ll share 13 of the best ways to find guests for a podcast. From social media hacks to industry events, these tips are tried and true. Our goal is to make it simple and fun for you to find guests who will wow your listeners.
Whilst these tips are fantastic, the most effective way to find guests is to use a podcast booking agency like Earworm. We can help you find the perfect guests or get you featured on other shows.
Without further ado, let’s explore these great tips and get your podcast guest list sorted!
Why great podcast guests matter
Great podcast guests are the secret sauce that can take your show from good to amazing! They bring fresh perspectives, exciting stories, and expertise that keep your audience hooked. Plus, they can boost your credibility and attract new listeners. Here’s a quick overview of our top picks for finding those spectacular guests:
- Use a podcast booking agency: Agencies like Earworm handle all the work for you, finding top-notch guests that fit your podcast perfectly.
- Search LinkedIn for experts: LinkedIn is full of professionals who love to share their knowledge.
- Join industry-specific Facebook groups: These groups are buzzing with passionate people eager to connect and share insights.
- Check guest listings on podcast directories: Sites like Podchaser and MatchMaker.fm list people actively seeking podcast appearances.
- Attend webinars and virtual conferences: These events are great for meeting experts who are keen to share their insights.
Ready to explore these methods in greater detail and find your next great guest? Let’s kick things off with our first tip.
1. Reach out to a podcast booking agency like Earworm
Need fantastic podcast guests without the hassle? Try Earworm! We’re a podcast booking agency that makes the process easy and stress-free.
Our team handles everything. With our pay-per-booking model, you only pay when we deliver. There are no monthly commitments, just results. Plus, you’ll have a dedicated project manager available via Slack, WhatsApp, or phone to keep things running smoothly.
We guarantee bookings and provide fast results. From crafting press kits to media training, we’ve got you covered. Your dedicated booking agent will find the perfect guests for your show. Trust us, each episode will be a hit!
A podcast guest booking service like Earworm can help you generate new leads, grow your network, and build credibility. Appear on top podcasts, boost your SEO, and watch your social following grow. It’s the easiest way to find guests for your podcast, hands down.
To learn more, contact our team for a personalised quote or a free 30-minute call.
2. Search LinkedIn for industry experts
LinkedIn is a goldmine for finding industry experts. It’s easier than you think! It’s one of the best ways to find podcast guests.
Start by using LinkedIn’s search bar. Type in keywords related to your podcast topic, like “marketing expert” or “healthcare specialist.” Filter the results by location, industry, or current company to narrow down your options.
Once you find potential guests, check their profiles. Look for people who are active on LinkedIn and have impressive credentials. Engage with their posts and send a personalised connection request. Mention why you’re reaching out and how you think they’d be a great fit for your podcast.
If they accept, send a direct message. Keep it friendly and to the point. Introduce yourself, explain your podcast, and tell them why you think they’d be a fantastic guest. Be clear about what you’re asking – invite them for an interview and suggest a few dates and times.
From our experience, many professionals are happy to share their expertise, especially if it means reaching a new audience. Searching LinkedIn for industry experts is a straightforward and effective way to find podcast guests who can add real value to your show.
3. Network at local business meetups
Local business meetups are a fantastic way to find podcast guests. We love this approach because meeting face-to-face shows personality and makes it more personal than an email. Here’s how to get started.
First, find meetups in your area. We recommend using platforms like Meetup.com, Eventbrite, or LinkedIn Events. Search for events related to your podcast’s topic. Look for networking events, industry talks, or business mixers.
Once you’ve found an event, attend with a plan. Bring business cards and prepare a brief introduction about your podcast. Be ready to explain what your podcast is about and why it’s exciting.
When you arrive, start mingling. Approach people with a friendly attitude and genuine interest. Ask about their work and listen actively. Share your podcast when it feels natural in the conversation. Mention how you’re looking for interesting guests and why you think they’d be a great fit.
Follow up after the event. Connect with the people you met on LinkedIn or via email. Remind them about your conversation and formally invite them to be a guest on your podcast.
Networking at local business meetups is a personal and effective way to find engaging guests. It’s all about building relationships and showing genuine interest in people’s work.
4. Join industry-specific Facebook groups
Wondering how to find people to interview for your podcast? Try joining industry-specific Facebook groups is your answer! These groups are packed with potential guests who are active and passionate about your podcast’s topic.
Start by searching for groups related to your podcast’s topic. Use Facebook’s search bar and type in keywords that match your niche. Look for groups with active discussions and a decent number of members. Groups like “Marketing Professionals Network” or “Women in Wellness” can be goldmines.
Once you’ve found a few groups, request to join. Answer any membership questions and read the group rules to ensure you fit in well. After you’re in, take some time to observe the conversations and get a feel for the group’s culture.
Engage by commenting on posts and sharing valuable insights. Building relationships here is key. After you’ve established yourself, create a post introducing your podcast and letting members know you’re looking for guests. Be genuine and explain why their expertise would be a great fit for your show.
You can also send direct messages to active members who seem like a good match. Keep your messages friendly and personal. Mention how you discovered them and why you think they’d be an excellent guest.
In all, joining Facebook groups helps you connect with knowledgeable and passionate people. It’s a great way to find guests who can bring real value to your podcast.
5. Check guest listings on podcast directories
One of our top recommendations for finding experts for your podcast is to check out guest listings on podcast directories. These directories are like online catalogues where podcasters and guests can find each other.
Start with popular directories like Podchaser, MatchMaker.fm, and Podcast Guests. These sites have sections where potential guests list their expertise and availability for interviews. It’s the perfect place to find people who are ready and eager to share their knowledge.
To begin, create an account on one of these directories. Browse through the guest listings, filtering by your podcast’s topic or niche. You’ll find detailed profiles including their background, topics they can discuss, and even past podcast appearances. This makes it easy to find someone who’s a perfect fit for your show.
When you find a potential guest, reach out directly through the platform. Send a friendly and personal message. Introduce yourself and your podcast, and explain why you think they’d be a great guest. Be clear about what you’re asking – an interview and maybe a few date options.
Using podcast directories simplifies the process of finding guests. It connects you with people who are already interested in being on podcasts, saving you time and effort. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to discover new voices and perspectives.
6. Attend webinars and virtual conferences
Attending webinars and virtual conferences is one of the best methods to find podcast guests. These events bring together experts and enthusiasts from all over the world.
Begin by finding webinars and conferences that align with your podcast’s topic. Websites like Eventbrite, Meetup, and LinkedIn are great places to discover upcoming events. Many professional organisations and industry groups also host regular webinars, so check their websites too.
Once you find an event, register and participate actively. Take notes on the speakers who impress you and who would be a great fit for your show. During Q&A sessions or networking breaks, engage with the speakers and attendees. Share your podcast and express interest in featuring them as guests.
We recommend to follow up after the event. Connect with potential guests on LinkedIn or send them an email. Mention the webinar or conference where you heard them speak and explain why you think they’d be a great guest for your podcast. Knowing how to book guests for a podcast is all about making these personal connections.
Attending virtual events removes geographical barriers, giving you access to a global pool of experts. It’s an efficient way to meet knowledgeable individuals without leaving your home.
7. Contact University professors in your field
At Earworm, we love reaching out to university professors and lecturers. They bring a wealth of knowledge and excitement to any podcast!
First off, find universities with strong programs related to your podcast’s topic. Check their faculty pages online to find professors who specialise in areas you’re interested in. Most universities provide contact details like email addresses and office hours.
Send a friendly and professional email introducing yourself and your podcast. Explain why you think their expertise would be a great fit for your listeners. Highlight the benefits for them, like reaching a wider audience and showcasing their research.
Professors often enjoy sharing their work outside the academic world. Podcasts give them a platform to engage with people who might not read academic journals. Plus, it’s a great way for them to boost their visibility and impact.
If you’re local, visiting the campus and attending public lectures or seminars is a fantastic way to connect. After the event, introduce yourself and mention your podcast.
University professors can add incredible depth and credibility to your show. If you’re ready to bring some academic brilliance to your podcast, start reaching out to experts and watch your content shine!
8. Join a podcast guest exchange (Reddit)
Want a fun way to find podcast guests? Join a podcast guest exchange! It’s a lively community where podcasters and potential guests connect, and it’s super effective.
One of the best places for this is Reddit’s r/PodcastGuestExchange. This subreddit is buzzing with activity. From our experience, it’s a prime spot to find guests or offer yourself as one. Simply create a post detailing what your podcast is about and what kind of guests you’re looking for. You’ll be surprised at how quickly people respond.
Facebook also has great podcast guest exchange groups. Search for groups related to podcasting, join them, and start engaging. Post about your podcast, specify the type of guests you’re seeking, and respond to others who are offering their expertise.
When posting, be clear and concise. Share a bit about your podcast, its audience, and why someone would enjoy being a guest. Make your posts inviting and personable to attract quality responses.
Joining a podcast guest exchange is a fantastic way to connect with a diverse range of people eager to share their knowledge and stories. It’s all about community and making connections that benefit both you and your guests.
9. Engage with influencers on X (formerly Twitter)
Connecting with influencers on X is a fantastic way to find podcast guests. This platform is buzzing with experts and thought leaders who are eager to share their insights.
Why X? It’s fast, real-time, and conversational. We recommend starting by following influencers who fit your podcast’s theme. Look for those who are active, engaging, and consistently sharing valuable content.
Join the conversation by liking, retweeting, and commenting on their posts. Build a genuine rapport over time. When you’re ready, send them a direct message. Keep it friendly and concise. Introduce your podcast, explain why you think they’d be a fantastic guest, and suggest a few dates for the interview.
The benefit of using X over other platforms is its immediacy. You can quickly see who’s active and responsive, which makes it easier to connect with potential guests. It’s perfect for podcasters looking to feature current, influential voices.
This method is great for anyone wanting to bring fresh, influential perspectives to their show. Plus, engaging publicly on X adds excitement and credibility to your podcast. It’s one of the best ways to find people to interview for a podcast, hands down.
10. Reach out to journalists and authors
As a podcast booking agency, we’ve found that connecting with journalists and authors can add incredible depth to your podcast. These professionals are skilled storytellers and often have fascinating insights to share.
Journalists are always digging into new topics and uncovering unique angles. You can find them through newspapers, magazines, and online publications. Look for bylines in articles related to your podcast’s theme. Once you find someone interesting, track down their contact details. They’re often listed at the end of the article or on the publication’s website.
Authors, on the other hand, pour years of research and passion into their books. You can discover them through book reviews, literary blogs, or even local bookstores. Many authors have websites with contact information and details on how to reach them for media inquiries.
When reaching out, craft a personal and engaging message. Introduce yourself and your podcast, and explain why you think they’d make a great guest. Highlight specific topics or recent works of theirs that you found intriguing and that align with your podcast’s focus.
Reaching out to journalists and authors brings a fresh perspective and can attract a wider audience. They’re often eager to discuss their latest projects and appreciate the platform to reach new listeners. It’s a win-win for both parties.
11. Sign up to PodMatch
Looking for the easiest ways to find podcast guests? PodMatch might be just what you need! It’s a platform designed to connect podcast hosts with the perfect guests, saving you time and effort.
PodMatch works like a matchmaking service for podcasters. It automates the process of finding and booking guests. This means you spend less time on back-and-forth messages and more time on what you love—recording great interviews.
Getting started is simple. Sign up and create a profile highlighting your podcast’s theme and the type of guests you’re looking for. The platform then matches you with potential guests who fit your criteria. It’s efficient and user-friendly.
One of the best parts? PodMatch offers a 100% money-back guarantee. You can try it risk-free, and if it doesn’t meet your needs, you’ll get a full refund.
Whilst PodMatch is a great service, a podcast booking agency like Earworm offers a more personal touch. Our dedicated team ensures each match is perfectly suited to your show, providing a level of customisation and attention that automated services can’t match.
12. Find experts through industry awards lists
We love using industry awards lists to find podcast guests because they highlight the stars in any field. These lists are packed with top talent who are recognised for their amazing contributions.
Industry awards celebrate the best in various sectors. Think of the “Forbes 30 Under 30” for young innovators, or the “James Beard Awards” for exceptional chefs. No matter your podcast’s focus, there’s likely an awards list showcasing the top players in your niche.
Finding these lists is easy. Just search online for awards related to your podcast topic. Check out professional organisations, industry publications, and social media for announcements of winners. Many awards have dedicated web pages listing all the honorees.
Why is this such a great method to get guests for your podcast? Award winners are often enthusiastic about sharing their success and insights. They’re passionate and engaging, which makes for fantastic podcast episodes. Plus, featuring award-winning guests can boost your podcast’s credibility and draw in more listeners. Give it a try!
13. Invite members of professional associations
Here’s our final tip, and it’s a good one! Inviting members of professional associations can uncover some of the best podcast guests around. These groups are full of passionate experts eager to share their knowledge.
Professional associations are organisations that bring together people from the same industry or profession. Think of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) for marketers or the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) for architects. These associations are packed with members who are leaders in their fields.
Why is this method awesome? Members of these groups are dedicated to their industry and love talking about it. They’re always looking for ways to share their expertise and connect with wider audiences. Plus, having them on your podcast adds instant credibility.
To find these experts, check out the association’s website for directories or member lists. Attend their events or conferences to meet potential guests in person. When you reach out, be genuine and excited about your podcast. Explain how their insights would benefit your listeners and why you’d love to have them on your show.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the easiest ways to find podcast guests
Dive into our FAQs and discover the simplest ways to find guests for a podcast.
What is the best way to find guests for a podcast?
The best way to find podcast guests is to use a mix of methods. Reach out to a podcast booking agency like Earworm, search LinkedIn for industry experts, and join relevant Facebook groups. Engage with influencers on X (formerly Twitter), attend webinars, and explore industry awards lists. These strategies will help you connect with knowledgeable and engaging guests.
Which apps find podcast guests?
Apps like PodMatch, MatchMaker.fm, and Podchaser are great for finding podcast guests. These platforms match you with potential guests based on your podcast’s topic and needs, saving you time and effort.
Is there a directory of podcasts?
Yes, there are several directories of podcasts. Popular ones include Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podchaser, and Google Podcasts. These directories list thousands of podcasts across various genres and topics. In our opinion, it’s one of the best ways to discover new shows and potential guests.
