How to Get Podcast Press With Zero Budget
How to Pitch Podcasts as a Thought Leader and Get Booked Without a Publicist.
This article is written by our in-house PR Columnist, and PR Agency owner (I Am The Publicist), Wendy Ford. Follow Wendy @iam.thepublicist
If you want free press, start talking, literally.
Podcasts are one of the best low-cost (often no-cost) ways to build authority, connect with new audiences, and promote your brand as a thought leader. But you don’t need an agent or media kit to get booked. You just need the right pitch, a clear message, and the confidence to hit “send.”
Here’s how to pitch yourself to podcasts that matter, and actually get a YES.
Why Podcasts Work for Building Buzz
Before diving into templates and tips, let’s talk about why podcasts are such a goldmine for thought leaders and emerging brands:
They’re always looking for fresh guests. There are over 3 million active podcasts, many of which rely on a constant stream of interviews.
They build deep trust. Listeners spend 20–60 minutes with you in their ears. That’s powerful.
They boost your SEO. Podcast episodes often include your name, business, and links on their site or show notes.
They give you content to repurpose. Use the audio for clips, quotes, and social posts.
The best part? Many podcasters want to find interesting new voices, especially if you make their job easy.
What Makes a Podcast Pitch Work?
Great podcast pitches are:
Personalized: Show that you’ve listened to the show or at least done your homework.
Specific: Suggest a clear topic or angle that fits the host’s vibe and audience.
Brief but impactful: Your pitch should be skimmable but loaded with value.
Positioned with a “what’s in it for them” mindset. How does you being on their show benefit their listeners?
Podcast Pitch Template
Feel free to tweak this to suit your tone and story, but here’s a solid starting point:
Subject Line:
Possible Guest for [Podcast Name] – [Your Name + Short Hook]
Email Body:
Hi [Host Name],
I’m a [your title] who helps [your audience] with [what you do in a clear, specific way]. I’ve been following [Podcast Name] and especially enjoyed your episode on [specific episode/topic], where you discussed [insert relatable takeaway].
I’d love to be considered as a guest and offer your audience insights on [insert topic idea]. A few things I can speak to include:
– [Bullet point 1 – strong, practical hook]
– [Bullet point 2 – result, lesson, or story]
– [Bullet point 3 – unique or surprising angle]
Happy to share stories from my own journey as a [insert relevant backstory], including how I [brief transformation, challenge, success, or perspective].
If it’s a fit, I’d be honored to join you. I’m happy to adapt to your audience's needs and provide high-quality audio and promotion on my end, too.
Thanks for your time—and for creating such a thoughtful platform.
Warmly,
[Your Name]
[Website or socials]
[Link to press, podcast examples, or bio if available]
Podcast Topic Ideas to Pitch as a Thought Leader
When brainstorming what to pitch, don’t just talk about your business. Focus on insights and stories that offer value or inspiration.
Here are a few ideas to consider:
“What Most People Get Wrong About [Your Industry]”
“How I Built [X] With No Funding and No Fame”
“Burnout, Boundaries, and Breaking the Rules in [Your Field]”
“What I Wish I Knew Before Starting My [Business/Creative Career]”
“The Mindset Shift That Changed Everything”
“A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Building [Your Product, Service, or Platform]”
And if you’ve got a compelling personal story (pivot, loss, reinvention, recovery), lean into it— it makes your message memorable.
Where to Find Podcasts to Pitch
Start with shows that are:
Accepting guests
In your niche or aligned with your audience
Actively posting new episodes
Try these platforms:
Podmatch – connects guests with hosts
MatchMaker.fm – free podcast guest network
Listen Notes – searchable database of podcasts
Goodpods – find trending indie shows by category
Spotify/Apple Podcasts – search by topic, then check the show’s contact info
Tip: Look for hosts who feature other up-and-coming voices. You don’t need to aim for Tim Ferriss, yet.
Be the Expert You Already Are.
You don’t need to be famous, have a six-figure following, or be published in Forbes to get on podcasts. What you’ve done is a message that matters, a story that connects, and the boldness to ask for the mic. So don’t wait to “feel ready.” Send the Pitch!!.
