Want to find the perfect guests for your podcast? Using our extensive industry knowledge, Earworm is here to share 11 foolproof ways to identify people worth interviewing.
Finding the perfect guests for your podcast can be tough, but it’s crucial for creating engaging content. At Earworm, we’ve spent years mastering the art of booking top-notch guests, and we’re excited to share our tips with you. Our team knows what works and what doesn’t, and we’re here to make your podcasting journey smoother.
Having interesting and knowledgeable guests is key to keeping your audience hooked. It might seem daunting, but there are some tried-and-true methods to help you find the right people. In this article, we’ll share 11 effective ways to discover guests who will bring value to your show.
If you need a bit of extra help, Earworm is here for you. As a leading podcast booking agency, we can connect you with great guests or even help you get featured on other shows. Let’s jump into these 11 ways to find podcast guests worth interviewing.
How can great guests improve your podcast?
Great guests can take your podcast to the next level! Here’s why:
- Fresh voices: Guests bring new stories and insights. This keeps your episodes lively and fun.
- Expert wisdom: Pros in their fields offer valuable tips and knowledge, which makes your podcast a go-to resource.
- Bigger audience: Guests share their episodes with their followers, helping you reach new listeners.
- Credibility boost: Featuring well-known guests makes your podcast look legitimate and professional.
- New connections: Each guest is a potential gateway to more exciting opportunities and collaborations.
- Listener excitement: High-quality guests keep your content fresh and engaging. This makes your audience eager for every new episode.
At Earworm, we know that great guests are the secret sauce to a standout podcast. They bring energy, expertise, and new listeners to your show. Get in touch today to see how we can help you find those amazing guests and grow your podcast!
1. Let Earworm help you find the perfect guests
Finding the right guests for your podcast can be tough, but Earworm makes it easy. As a podcast guest service, we connect you with engaging, knowledgeable guests tailored to your show’s needs. Just tell us about your podcast, the topics you cover, and the type of guests you want. We’ll handle the rest.
Our service is pay-per-booking. You only pay for each successful guest, with no monthly fees. Plus, you get a dedicated project manager available on Slack, WhatsApp, or phone, giving you personal support.
Earworm offers professional press kits to announce your podcast appearances and provides media and interview training to sharpen your skills. With a dedicated booking agent focused on finding the best guests for your show, you can trust us to deliver.
Why spend hours hunting for guests when Earworm can do it for you? Using our service means you get access to top-tier guests without the stress. Plus, you can be confident that every guest will bring something valuable to your show.
Ready to find the perfect guests for your podcast? Book your free 30-minute call now.
2. Tap into your professional network
Your professional network is a goldmine for finding podcast guests. Start by reaching out to colleagues, industry contacts, and former coworkers. Let them know you’re looking for interesting people to interview.
We recommend organising a virtual coffee chat or a small networking event. This can be a casual Zoom call where you catch up with contacts and mention your podcast. It’s a great way to remind people about your work and seek their recommendations.
Another tip is to send personalised emails to your network. In your email, explain your podcast’s focus and the type of guests you’re looking for. Ask if they know anyone who fits the bill. Be clear and concise.
We also suggest leveraging your social media. Post about your search for podcast guests on platforms like Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. Your friends and followers might have some excellent recommendations.
Take notice of your company’s internal network. Many organisations have newsletters or internal communication channels. Ask if you can post a short blurb about your podcast and the kind of guests you’re seeking.
Lastly, attend online industry events where your contacts might be present. Engage in the chat or Q&A sessions to network and identify potential guests. Follow up with an email or LinkedIn message to those who stand out.
Your professional network can be a powerful resource for finding high-quality podcast guests. Reach out, be specific, and see how many interesting people you can connect with.
3. Find guests on LinkedIn
Wondering how to find people to interview for a podcast? LinkedIn is a fantastic place to start. Here’s how to make the most of it.
First, use LinkedIn’s search function to find potential guests. Type in keywords related to your podcast topics and filter by industry, location, and experience. Look for profiles that stand out and show expertise in your area of interest.
We recommend joining LinkedIn groups related to your podcast’s niche. These groups are full of professionals discussing relevant topics. Jump into these conversations, contribute, and identify active, knowledgeable members who could be your next guests.
Post a status update about your podcast and the type of guests you’re seeking. Be specific about the topics and qualities you’re looking for. This will help your connections think of the right people to suggest.
Send personalised connection requests. When reaching out, mention your podcast and why you think they would be a great guest. Be clear about your podcast’s focus and what you’re looking for in a guest.
Use LinkedIn’s messaging feature to follow up with potential guests. After connecting, send a friendly message expressing your interest in having them on your podcast. Include details about your podcast, the topics you want to discuss, and how they can contribute.
Lastly, check who viewed your profile. Those interested in your profile might be curious about your podcast and open to an invitation.
4. Discover experts in Facebook groups
From our experience, finding guests on Facebook can be even more effective than on LinkedIn. This is especially true for niche topics. Facebook groups are full of enthusiasts and experts who are eager to share their knowledge.
We advise starting by joining Facebook groups related to your podcast’s niche. These groups often have active discussions and members who are passionate about specific topics. Look for groups with a high level of engagement and active admins.
Once you’re in these groups, be an active participant. Comment on posts, ask questions, and engage with members. This helps you identify potential guests who are knowledgeable and articulate. When you find someone interesting, send them a direct message. Personalise your message by mentioning the group and specific discussions they participated in.
If you’re wondering how to book guests for a podcast, posting directly in the group can be a great strategy. Share a bit about your podcast and the type of guests you’re seeking. Be clear and specific about what you’re looking for. This can attract members who are interested in being guests or who know someone who would be a good fit.
We recommend using the group search function to find posts and comments related to your podcast topics. This can help you identify active members who consistently contribute valuable insights.
Facebook groups are often more casual and community-driven, which makes them great for finding passionate and engaged guests. This is perfect for reaching out to niche experts and enthusiasts who might not be on LinkedIn. But remember, each platform has its strengths, so it’s good to explore both.
5. Network at industry conferences and events
Attending industry conferences and events is a fantastic way to find great podcast guests. These gatherings are full of experts eager to share their knowledge.
For podcasts on technology, we recommend attending events like the London Tech Week. This event brings together tech leaders and innovators from around the world. Engage with speakers and attendees during sessions and networking breaks. Start with a compliment about their presentation or insights and then introduce your podcast.
If you’re in the health and wellness niche, consider the Mind Body Spirit Festival in Birmingham. This event attracts a wide range of health professionals, from nutritionists to mental health experts. Approach potential guests by expressing genuine interest in their work and how it aligns with your podcast topics.
For those in the creative arts, the Edinburgh International Book Festival is a must. This event is perfect for connecting with authors, illustrators, and publishers. When you find someone intriguing, mention how their work resonates with your audience and invite them to share their experiences on your podcast.
We’d recommend attending smaller, niche events too. For example, the Manchester Digital Summit is great for digital marketing experts. These more intimate settings can make it easier to have meaningful conversations.
When you meet potential guests, be direct and friendly. Introduce yourself and your podcast, and explain why you think they would be a great fit. Always follow up with an email or LinkedIn message to keep the conversation going.
6. Use a podcast guest booking service
Using podcast guest booking services can be a game-changer for finding amazing guests. These services connect you with interesting and knowledgeable individuals who can add tremendous value to your podcast. Here’s why this could be a fantastic idea and how it works.
First, a guest booking service saves you loads of time. Instead of spending hours searching for potential guests, the service does the legwork for you. This allows you to focus more on creating engaging content for your listeners.
Second, podcast booking agencies have access to a broad network of experts and influencers. They can match you with guests who perfectly fit your podcast’s niche and audience. This means you get guests who are not only knowledgeable but also relevant and engaging.
At Earworm, our team of experts loves connecting podcasters with top-tier guests. We handle everything from initial outreach to scheduling, making the process smooth and hassle-free. If you’re seeking guests for your podcast or aiming to be featured on others, we can assist you.
Another great perk is guaranteed bookings. Agencies like Earworm make sure that every guest booked will add value to your podcast. This eliminates the uncertainty and helps you maintain a high standard of content.
7. Join industry organisations and groups
Looking for a fun and effective way to find podcast guests to interview? Joining industry organisations and groups is a brilliant strategy! These groups are buzzing with professionals who are experts in their fields.
Here are a few of our top picks and how to join them:
- British Computer Society (BCS): For tech podcasters. Network with IT pros by joining online at bcs.org.
- Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH): For health and wellness. Connect with health experts by signing up at rsph.org.uk.
- Creative Industries Federation: For those in the creative arts. Meet authors and artists by getting a membership at creativeindustriesfederation.com.
- Institute of Directors (IoD): For business podcasters. Network with business leaders by joining at iod.com.
- Chartered College of Teaching: For education podcasters. Connect with passionate educators by registering at chartered.college.
Joining these groups gives you direct access to a pool of potential guests. Attend their events, both online and in-person, to engage with members. Be active in discussions and let your enthusiasm for your podcast shine through.
When you find someone interesting, introduce yourself and your podcast, and invite them to be a guest.
8. Reach out to authors and industry experts
Imagine having an author or industry expert share their insights on your podcast. Sounds exciting, right? Authors and experts are often eager to discuss their work and offer valuable perspectives. In our opinion, it’s one of the best ways to find people to interview for podcasts.
First, let’s talk about finding authors. Platforms like Amazon and Goodreads are goldmines. Search for books that match your podcast’s niche and read reviews to ensure the author’s credibility. Once you have a few names, visit their personal websites for contact details.
For industry experts, LinkedIn is a goldmine. Use LinkedIn’s search function to discover professionals who are leaders in your field. Look for those who have published articles, spoken at events, or hold notable positions. Their profiles often list contact information or ways to connect.
When you reach out, make it personal. Mention specific aspects of their work that impressed you and explain how their expertise aligns with your podcast. Keep your message genuine and concise.
Why is this approach so effective? Authors and experts bring authority and fresh perspectives to your podcast. They often have a loyal following, which can attract new listeners to your show.
And if you want to make things even easier, Earworm can help you find and book these amazing guests. We handle the details, so you can focus on creating great content.
9. Investigate industry award winners and nominees
Ever thought about featuring an award-winning expert on your podcast? It’s an exciting way to add credibility and unique insights to your show. Let’s explore how you can find these guests and why it’s a brilliant idea.
First, dive into industry-specific magazines and websites. These sources love to showcase their top achievers. For tech lovers, the UK IT Industry Awards is your go-to. In the health and wellness niche? Check out the RSPH Health & Wellbeing Awards. For those in creative fields, the British Book Awards and the BAFTAs are gold mines.
Next, scan press releases from the organisations behind these awards. They announce winners and nominees with all the juicy details you need. Newspapers and online news platforms also cover these events extensively.
Now, onto the fun part: reaching out. Craft a warm and genuine email. Celebrate their success and explain why you’re excited to feature them on your podcast. Try something like, “Hi [Name], congrats on your [Award] win! Your work in [specific area] is truly impressive. We’d be thrilled to have you share your insights on our podcast.”
Why is this such a great strategy? Award winners and nominees bring instant credibility and excitement to your podcast. They’ve got a story to tell, and their accolades can draw new listeners eager to hear from the best.
Finding people to interview for a podcast doesn’t have to be a chore. Spotlighting award winners and nominees adds a touch of brilliance to your content. If you need a hand, Earworm can help you track down and book these amazing guests.
10. Connect with local universities and colleges
If you think local universities and colleges are only about lectures and exams, think again. These institutions are bursting with brilliant minds perfect for your podcast.
Looking for tech experts for your podcast? We love reaching out to professors at places like the University of Oxford’s Environmental Change Institute. They’re deep into research and can share insights that will wow your audience.
Students are a fantastic resource too! They’re buzzing with fresh ideas and often involved in exciting projects. For instance, we’ve found amazing guests from Imperial College London’s Department of Computing. Their energy and innovative ideas can add a fun twist to your podcast.
So, how do you connect with these academic stars? Start by exploring university websites. Faculty directories and student organisations are your best friends. Look for people who are active in your podcast’s niche.
Don’t forget about public lectures and events at these schools. They’re great for networking. Attend, introduce yourself, and chat about how their expertise can shine on your show. It’s one of the best ways to find guests for a podcast.
11. Check TEDx speaker lists for inspiring guests
For our final tip, let’s talk about TEDx speakers. These individuals are passionate, articulate, and perfect for your podcast. Here’s how to find and reach out to them.
TEDx events are everywhere, showcasing speakers who deliver inspiring talks on all sorts of topics. Start by heading to the TED website and exploring the TEDx section. You’ll find loads of events with detailed speaker info. Each speaker has a profile, making it easy to learn about their expertise and find their contact details.
We love TEDx speakers because they cover a wide range of subjects. Whether it’s technology, science, personal growth, or social issues, there’s a TEDx talk for it. Watch a few talks that align with your podcast’s theme and see who stands out.
TEDx speakers are usually excited to share their ideas beyond the stage. They bring energy and credibility to your podcast, making your episodes more engaging and insightful. Plus, having a TEDx speaker on your show can really impress your listeners!
Finding TEDx speakers is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Dive into their talks, get inspired, and reach out to invite them to your podcast. It’s a fantastic way to bring fresh, dynamic content to your audience.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about finding guests for a podcast
Want to find the perfect interview guests for your podcast? Our FAQs have got you covered! Get expert advice and tips on how to connect with amazing guests.
How do I find a guest for my podcast?
To find a guest for your podcast, use your professional network, explore LinkedIn and Facebook groups, and check TEDx speaker lists. Attend industry events and join relevant organisations. For an easy option, consider podcast booking agencies like Earworm.
Are podcast booking agencies worth it?
Yes, podcast booking agencies are worth it. They save you time and connect you with high-quality guests. Agencies handle outreach and scheduling, which the process stress-free.
How do I start a podcast with no guests?
Start a podcast with no guests by focusing on solo episodes. Share your expertise, insights, and stories. Create research-based episodes, answer listener questions, or provide guides on specific topics. Build your content and audience first, then add guests later.
How long should an interview on a podcast be?
An interview on a podcast should be 30 to 60 minutes long. This duration keeps the conversation engaging and allows for in-depth discussion without overwhelming listeners. Adjust based on your audience’s preferences and the topic’s complexity.
