Podcasts are one of the most powerful tools for public speakers and business owners looking to expand their reach, establish authority, and get booked to speak at live events. Unlike traditional media, podcasts provide an intimate and engaged audience that values in-depth conversations and expert insights. For speakers, appearing on podcasts is an opportunity to share their expertise, connect with potential clients, and build lasting credibility. Many podcast hosts invite guests back or recommend them for speaking engagements, making it a valuable part of any public speaking growth strategy. However, getting booked on the right podcasts requires a well-crafted approach, and many speakers unknowingly make critical mistakes that hurt their chances. Here are the biggest mistakes speakers make when pitching themselves as podcast guests—and how to avoid them. However, many speakers make critical mistakes when pitching themselves as guests, leading to rejection or, worse, being ignored altogether. If you’re looking to land more speaking engagements through podcasts, you need a pitch that stands out. Here are the biggest mistakes speakers make when reaching out to podcast hosts—and how to avoid them.

1. Sending Generic, Mass Pitches

One of the most common mistakes speakers make is sending the same pitch to every podcast. Podcast hosts can easily tell when they’ve received a copy-paste email, and it’s a surefire way to get ignored.

How to Avoid It:

• Research each podcast before pitching. Listen to a few episodes to understand the host’s style and audience.

• Personalize your pitch by mentioning a specific episode or topic that resonated with you.

• Show the host why you’re a perfect fit for their show, rather than just promoting yourself.

2. Not Making It About the Audience

Many speakers focus their pitch entirely on themselves—talking about their experience, achievements, and why they are great. But podcast hosts care more about what their audience will gain from the interview.

How to Avoid It:

• Instead of saying, “I have 10 years of experience in public speaking,” say, “I can share three actionable strategies to help your listeners become better speakers.”

• Frame your expertise in a way that benefits the podcast’s listeners.

• Provide specific takeaways that will make the episode valuable.

3. Pitching a Topic That Doesn’t Fit the Podcast

Not every podcast is a good fit for your expertise. Some speakers make the mistake of pitching irrelevant topics just because a show is popular or has a large audience.

How to Avoid It:

• Read the show’s description and listen to past episodes to understand what topics they cover.

• Align your pitch with the podcast’s core themes and the host’s interests.

• Offer a fresh angle or perspective that hasn’t been covered before.

4. Ignoring the Host’s Guidelines

Many podcasts have specific guidelines for guest pitches, including preferred topics, required information, or submission formats. Ignoring these instructions shows a lack of professionalism.

How to Avoid It:

• Check the podcast’s website or social media for guest application instructions.

• Follow any specific requirements (such as including a short bio, suggested topics, or links to previous interviews).

• If the host requests a certain subject, craft your pitch around that instead of forcing your own topic.

5. Having No Social Proof or Credibility

Podcast hosts want guests who bring value and credibility. If your pitch doesn’t include any proof of your expertise, the host may not see a reason to invite you.

How to Avoid It:

• Include links to past interviews, speaking clips, or relevant articles you’ve written.

• Mention any recognitions, media features, or major speaking engagements.

• If you’re newer to podcast guesting, highlight testimonials from clients or event organizers.

6. Failing to Show Energy and Personality

Even if you have great content, if your pitch feels boring or robotic, the host may assume your interview will be the same. Podcasts are conversational, and energy matters.

How to Avoid It:

• Write your pitch in a friendly, engaging tone rather than sounding overly formal.

• If possible, send a short voice note or video to showcase your personality.

• Mention a past episode you enjoyed and relate it to your topic in a natural, engaging way.

7. Not Following Up (or Following Up Too Much)

Some speakers send one pitch and never follow up, assuming silence means rejection. Others go to the opposite extreme, sending multiple follow-ups in a short time, which can annoy podcast hosts.

How to Avoid It:

• Send a polite follow-up 7-10 days after your initial pitch if you haven’t received a response.

• Keep your follow-up short and to the point (e.g., “Just checking in to see if you had a chance to review my pitch.”).

• If you don’t hear back after two follow-ups, move on and try again in the future with a new angle.

8. Not Being Ready for the Interview

The last mistake happens after you get booked—some speakers show up unprepared, thinking they can “wing it.” This leads to poor interviews and missed opportunities.

How to Avoid It:

• Listen to at least two recent episodes to understand the flow of the show.

• Prepare key talking points and have a few compelling stories or examples ready.

• Make sure you have a quiet space, a good microphone, and stable internet for recording.

Final Thoughts: Get Booked on More Podcasts with a Better Pitch

Podcast guesting is a powerful way to grow your brand, build credibility, and get booked to speak at live events. By avoiding these common pitching mistakes, you’ll increase your chances of landing more speaking engagements and connecting with the right audiences.

Want more tips on growing your public speaking career? Join our SpeakerHUB Coworking Sessions, held Monday to Friday at 12 PM, 3 PM, and 7 PM Eastern (GMT-05). Learn from experts, refine your pitches, and connect with other speakers. Join here and take your speaking career to the next level!