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Launching a community podcast has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, not just for building connections but for bringing a wide array of influential voices right to my listeners. Since 2021, I’ve had everyone from politicians and CEOs to reality TV stars and influencers on my show. If you’re curious about how to land high-profile guests—even if you feel like a small fish in a big pond—this episode is for you!

Below, I’ll break down the steps I’ve used to secure amazing guests and how any podcaster, no matter their what stage of their podcasting journey, can do the same.

Why High-Profile Guests Matter to Your Podcast’s Growth

Having high-profile guests on your podcast can boost credibility, expand reach, and provide valuable insights that captivate your audience. But there’s one big secret to landing these guests: do your research, look the part, and when the time comes – be the part. Here’s exactly how.

Step 1: Research, Research, Research

Before reaching out to any potential guest, understand who they are and what they’re about. Take time to learn:

• What they’re currently working on
• Their brand direction and how their brand has changed in the past 12 months
• Upcoming projects or events they might want to promote
• Why they’d want to be on a podcast and how you can help fulfill their goals

This research is the foundation of your pitch. When you know what’s valuable to them, you can tailor your message to show how being on your podcast benefits their goals.

Pro Tip: Flattery works! Compliment their work sincerely, and share why you think they’d be an excellent fit for your show (and vice versa).

Step 2: Perfect Your Pitch Presentation

Creating a polished, professional pitch can make all the difference. This is where my Podcast Pitch Template comes into play. Your pitch should:

• Look impressive and thoughfully designed
• Answer common questions upfront (e.g., audience demographics, episode format)
• Showcase your podcast’s accomplishments
• Communicate why the host and podcast are good for the guest’s brand

When I reach out, I send potential guests a beautifully designed PDF with all the details about my show. This makes an impression that tells them, “This podcast is worth your time.” If you don’t have a polished pitch yet, check out my fully customizable canva template—it’s been my secret weapon for securing over 400 guests!

Step 3: Write Thoughtful, Original Questions

Your questions should make the guest feel valued and highlight angles they haven’t discussed elsewhere. After interviewing the winner of The Voice, he told me my questions were the most thoughtful he’d encountered. Why? Because I dug deep, making sure I didn’t ask the same questions they get on every show.

Quick Tip: Before sending a list of questions, check their previous interviews and avoid repetition. Aim to ask something fresh that will engage both the guest and their fans.

Step 4: Be Persistent with Follow-Ups

When you’re pursuing high-profile guests, expect gatekeepers. It’s part of the process. But persistence pays off. With one high-profile guest, it took several months of emails, voicemails, and nudges through mutual friends before we nailed down the interview date. Don’t be discouraged if it takes time—keep going, and know that many of these guests genuinely want to participate.

Persistence Tip: If you’ve sent an email and haven’t heard back, follow up after a week. Stay polite and brief in your follow-ups, but let them know you’re still interested.

Step 5: Leverage Your Network to Find Great Guests

Your network is your most valuable asset when it comes to booking guests. End every interview by asking, “Do you know anyone else who might be a good fit for my show?” People tend to know others with similar interests or within the same industry, so use this to your advantage.

Network Hack: Keep a list of the types of guests you’re looking for, and let your contacts know you’d love introductions. Great guests know other great guests.

Bonus Tips for Interview Success

1. Limit your storytelling: While it’s tempting to share your own stories, remember that listeners came for the guest. Keep your questions focused, and let the guest shine.
   
2. Tailor the episode for their audience: When high-profile guests come on, you’re likely to attract new listeners. Make sure your questions offer something valuable to their fans too.

All Podcasting is Local: Embrace Your Community

Remember, every podcast—no matter its size—has a unique angle. Mine happens to be local, rooted in community connections. Knowing your own community, both geographically and in terms of shared interests, can make your podcast appealing to guests with ties to your area or industry.

Community Tip: Localize your podcasting efforts by connecting with guests who have a natural tie to your community or audience. This “local” focus is often what sets your podcast apart.

Final Encouragement: Go After Your Dream Guests

I’m giving you permission to pursue the guests you dream of having on your show. You’re worthy, capable, and more than able to reach out and make that connection. Keep pushing, keep emailing, and as always, keep improving. I can’t wait to see who you bring onto your podcast next.

Ready to Up Your Guest Game?

If you’re looking to elevate your pitch and land those dream guests, check out my Podcast Pitch Template. This is the exact tool I’ve used to bring incredible voices onto my show. Find it linked in the episode description!

Takeaway: High-profile guests may seem out of reach, but with the right research, a polished pitch, and a bit of persistence, you can bring amazing voices onto your podcast—no matter how local or small it may seem. Keep going, and remember, I’m here cheering you on!