How to Pitch Yourself as a Podcast Guest (Template + Examples)
In short: To pitch yourself as a podcast guest, find shows where your ideal audience listens, write a personalised email referencing a specific episode, suggest 2–3 ready-to-use topics, and close with a low-pressure ask. Follow up once after 7–10 days.
· Podcast Guesting · 5 min read
What is a podcast guest pitch?
A podcast guest pitch is a short, targeted email proposing yourself as a guest. A strong pitch explains who you are, why you're relevant, and what you can speak about - in under 200 words.
The best pitches don't sell. They serve. They show the host exactly how you'll make their episode better.
Why most pitches fail
- They're generic - copy-paste templates that don't reference the show
- They lead with credentials, not value - hosts care about what listeners will learn
- They're too long - over 200 words is too long
- No topic suggestions - "I'd love to be on your show" gives the host nothing to work with
- No social proof - briefly mention past appearances or audience
Where to find the right podcasts
- Search Apple Podcasts and Spotify for keywords in your niche
- Google your competitors + "podcast" to find shows in your space
- Use guest matching platforms - PodMatch, Matchmaker.fm, PodcastGuests.com
- Search LinkedIn for hosts who post guest calls
- Start with mid-size shows (500–5,000 downloads per episode) - more responsive, highly engaged
The anatomy of a perfect pitch
Subject line
Specific and curiosity-driven:
- "Guest idea: [Specific Topic] for [Show Name]"
- "3 episode ideas for [Show Name]"
Opening line
Reference a specific episode. This separates you from 95% of pitchers.
"I loved your episode with [Guest] on [Topic] - especially the point about [detail]."
Value proposition (2–3 sentences)
Who you are, who you help, one credibility marker.
Topic suggestions (2–3 bullets)
Frame as ready-to-use episode titles, not vague areas.
Low-pressure close
"Happy to send a one-sheet or jump on a quick call - whatever's easiest."
Pitch email template
Subject: Guest idea: [Topic] for [Show Name]
Hi [Host Name],
I've been listening to [Show Name] for a while - your episode with [Guest] on [Topic] really resonated, especially [detail].
I'm [Your Name], a [role] who helps [audience] [achieve outcome]. [One credibility sentence].
A few topic ideas:
- [Topic 1 framed as an episode title]
- [Topic 2 framed as an episode title]
- [Topic 3 framed as an episode title]
Happy to send a media kit if any of these sound like a fit. No pressure either way.
Best, [Your Name]
Following up
If you don't hear back within 7–10 days, send one polite follow-up. Maximum two follow-ups total. Always warm, never entitled. After that, move on.
Common mistakes
- Pitching shows you've never listened to
- Making it about you, not the audience
- Vague topics like "I can talk about business"
- Pitching via DM (unless invited) instead of email
The bottom line
Focus on personalisation, lead with value, suggest specific topics, and follow up gracefully. Quality always beats quantity.
Keep reading
PWRFULLY, podcast guesting and communication coaching. Auckland, New Zealand.