Inviting guests onto your podcast is a great way to grow your podcast immediately. Not only are you adding more value to your podcast and increasing shareability, but you’ll also gain exposure to your guest’s audience. 

Today I’m talking about where to find guests, how to use guests with any show format, and how to maximize your exposure from guest interviews. Let’s get started!

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How to use guests with your show format

Guests don’t necessarily work for all show formats. If your podcast consists of only solo episodes because you want to be the authority on the topic for your audience, it may be harder to bring guests onto your show. 

However, there is usually a complementary industry that isn’t a direct competitor and can offer value to your audience. For example, if you are a floral designer and your podcast gives tips for styling arrangements, you can bring on a photographer to provide insight on what type of arrangements photograph the best. The photographer will offer new value to your listeners without competing with your business.

Where to find guests

There are a few ways to identify potential guests for your show. Has your audience asked any questions that you can’t answer? Is there a topic related to your industry that you would like to learn more about? Is there anyone in your network that has the expertise your listeners would find interesting?

Keep a running list of guest ideas and then reach out to them to introduce your podcast. If they are interested in being a guest, schedule a ‘pre-interview’ chat to make sure it’s a good match. Pitch a few potential questions or topics to talk about during the episode to make sure everyone is on the same page. And if you’re not, or if the chat is awkwardly strained, it’s better to know before you both waste your time on an interview that will never air.

How to grow you podcast from guest episodes

My show is primarily solo episodes because I want to share my knowledge about podcasting with you. But I like to have a few guest hosts each season that have more knowledge than I do about specific topics. This brings more value to my listeners and also gives me the chance to learn something new.  And on top of that, both my guest and I get exposure to a new audience. After appearing on my show and being promoted to my audience, the guest typically shares the episode with their audience, giving me extra exposure to grow my podcast. It’s a win for everyone! 

To increase the likelihood of a guest promoting the episode, send them an email thanking them for appearing and encouraging them to share the episode with their audience. Include any episode links and social media graphics to make it as easy as possible for them. While you can’t guarantee that your guest will share the episode, it is considered best practice and if you are ever a guest, share that podcast with your audience! There is so much time and energy behind-the-scenes to create a podcast and it’s a great way to say thank you to the host.

Do you want more tips on how to be an amazing guest when you’re on the other side of the mic? Listen to this episode next: Being A Pro Podcast Guest; Tips & Tricks To Be The Best Guest Possible