How To Book A Guest For Your Podcast

With the popularity of podcasts on the rise, more and more listeners are tuning in to the medium. In fact, 70% of Americans in a study aged 12+ are familiar with the term "podcast", while 51% have listened to an episode at some point in their lives. Coupled with the rise in popularity, the number of celebrities and thought-leaders alike being booked for podcasts has also grown, providing listeners with another way to connect with their favourite stars.

(Source: Discover Pods)

What is a podcast?

Definition: "A strictly audio series of episodes, which listeners can stream via sites like Spotify or download to enjoy offline. Genres can range from true crime to comedy, with the main hook of a podcast being its charming, articulate presenter or host."

Why are podcasts so popular?

Widely accessible for the masses, many podcasts simply require an internet connection and a streaming platform like YouTube or Spotify, which have free options. Due to this, the form of entertainment is more attainable than its broadcast counterparts, like television channels, which commonly need a license.

Additionally, podcasts are true to their genre, so whether you prefer relaxed interviews or narrative stories, there is a series for everyone. Combined with the option to invite podcast guests, the platform is shining a new, unique light on famous faces, as the format lends itself to more honest conversations.

Listeners can tailor their consumption of podcasts to their everyday lives, as each episode is accessible at a time that suits then. As opposed to radio or television, which broadcasts episodes at a set time and date, podcasts are bite sized chunks of entertainment which can be tailored to our lives.

How To Book A Podcast Guest

STEP ONE: CHOOSE A TOPIC OR HOOK

Though your podcast will already have a pre-established theme, it is important to tailor your episode to your desired guest. Do you want to book a celebrity? A business leader? Or, maybe an inspiring individual with a thought-provoking story to tell? Think about which topic would relate well with your existing content, and the style of conversation that would compliment your presenting style.

STEP TWO: DECIDE YOUR BUDGET & BRIEF

Before taking the next step to booking a guest for your podcast, it is essential to devise a reasonable budget. This will make the process quicker and simpler, rather than searching through speakers out of your price range. Additionally, devising a brief will focus your requirements, making it easier to communicate your specifications with a booking agent. Keep it short and to the point, and include a description of your target audience, podcast theme and purpose for the booking.

From there, take a look at the speakers, celebrities and thought leaders available in our category pages. Take a look at our topics section, follow the genre that is best suited to your unique podcast and peruse the options available. As you do so, make sure to watch the video on their profile, to hear them in action!

STEP THREE: CONTACT A BOOKING AGENT

Next, once you have a general idea of the special guest you want to book, contact a member of our expert team. During our initial consultation, we will discuss your podcast's budget, brief and target audience, to gain an understanding for your needs as a client. From there, we will devise a list of options for you to choose from, each within your budget and tailored to your brief. All you have to do is choose your favourite!

STEP FOUR: WRITE YOUR SCRIPT

While a dedicated member of our team communicates with your special guest on your behalf, you can now write your script. Though you may already have a list of great podcast questions to ask from previous interviews, keep your episodes fresh and authentic by tailoring your questions to your guest.

When writing your script, consider the following prompts:

  • How will you introduce your guest?
  • How will you introduce yourself?
  • How will you introduce your podcast?
  • Has you guest released anything new recently, e.g. a book?
  • What is your guest famous for?
  • What does your guest specialise in?
  • What will your audience want to know about your guest?

STEP FIVE: MEETING WITH YOUR SPEAKER

When you partner with Champions, we will offer you a guided conference call with your speaker, celebrity or guest, to discuss the details of the booking. This gives you an opportunity to present the areas of conversation you wish to discuss, and gives your guest the opportunity to highlight the topics they definitely do and don't want to talk about. It also allows for a rapport to be built between you and your guest, ensuring that the actual interview is natural, authentic and enjoyable to listen to.

Additionally, the meeting gives you an opportunity to discuss important logistical values. These can include whether your interview will be from a studio or remotely, the time and date and whether the guest needs to prepare any material - like bringing the book they may have just published. The beauty of podcasts is that they can be recorded from anywhere around the world, so don't be disheartened if guests cannot travel to see you in person, as they can just as easily be interviewed from home.

ENJOY YOUR PODCAST!

Finally, enjoy the exposure your special guest will bring to your podcast. Keep the energy and enthusiasm alive throughout the episode, with snappy questions and natural conversation. If you wish to book another guest for your next episode, our team of sales representatives are always a phone call, email or online contact away!

Book A Guest For Your Podcast

To book one of our fantastic special guests including celebrities, business figures and television presenters, simply complete our online booking form or call us on 0207 1010 553. If you're hosting a webinar, you can also take a look at our free top tips to make sure yours is a success.

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