How to Be an Amazing Podcast Guest (and Actually Grow Your Audience!)

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If podcast guesting is part of your 2025 strategy, congratulations—you’re on the right track!  Being a guest on podcasts can be a game-changer for growing your audience, building your brand, and driving traffic to your business. But here’s the thing: showing up without a plan won’t cut it. If you want to make the most of your guest spots, you need a clear strategy.

In this post, I’ll share practical tips to help you become a standout guest who grabs attention, keeps it, and leaves a lasting impression. Let’s dive in!

Why Podcast Guesting is a Must-Have Strategy

With the rise of podcasting, guest appearances are an incredible way to connect with new audiences. Unlike social media posts or ads, podcasts allow you to engage in deep, meaningful conversations. You can showcase your expertise, share your unique story, and build trust with potential clients or followers.

However, not all guest appearances are created equal. Without preparation, you risk wasting your time—and the host’s. That’s why I’m here to help you avoid common mistakes and elevate your podcast guesting game.

5 Tips to Be a Standout Podcast Guest

1. Set Clear Goals for Each Appearance

Before you pitch yourself or say yes to a guest spot, ask yourself: What’s my goal? Are you trying to grow your email list? Promote a new product or service? Drive traffic to your website?

Having a clear objective ensures you’ll tailor your message and calls-to-action effectively. For example, if your goal is to build your email list, you might create a freebie or lead magnet specific to the podcast audience.

2. Understand Your Unique Angle

What makes you different from every other guest in your niche? Maybe you’re a business coach who built a 7-figure empire without launching, or perhaps you have a groundbreaking framework for productivity.

Your unique angle is what will hook the audience and make them want to learn more about you. Lean into what sets you apart and craft your message around that.

3. Tell Stories That Resonate

People love stories, but not just any story. Focus on line-in-the-sand moments—those pivotal events that shaped your journey and are relatable to the audience.

For example, instead of giving a long-winded background, zero in on the moment that inspired you to start your business or make a life-changing decision. Keep your stories concise, impactful, and tied to the episode’s theme.

4. Respect the Host and Their Audience

How you show up reflects your brand. Here’s how to ensure you’re leaving a positive impression:

• Come prepared: Research the podcast, its audience, and previous episodes.
• Invest in quality sound: Use a good mic and a quiet environment.
• Stay on topic: Respect the host’s time and agenda by sticking to the agreed-upon themes.

Pro tip: Communicate with the host beforehand about the key points or stories you’d like to cover. This helps the host guide the conversation in a way that benefits both of you.

5. Practice Makes Perfect

Nobody starts as a perfect podcast guest. It takes practice to refine your delivery, message, and storytelling skills. Don’t overanalyze early appearances, but do reflect on what worked and what didn’t. The more reps you get, the better you’ll become.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Rambling: Stay focused and concise. Don’t dive into unnecessary backstory.
2. Poor Audio Quality: Your sound reflects your professionalism.
3. Lack of Direction: Without a clear goal, your appearance may feel scattered and ineffective.
4. Forgetting to Engage: Use a strong call-to-action, like directing listeners to a free resource or your email list.

Practical Steps to Prepare for Your Next Podcast Appearance

Here’s a quick checklist to ensure you’re ready to rock your next guest spot:

• Define your goal: Know what you want to achieve from the appearance.
• Craft your core message: What’s your unique angle, and how does it tie into your goal?
• Prepare your stories: Identify key moments that are relevant and engaging.
• Test your audio setup: Ensure your sound is crystal clear.
• Plan your call-to-action: Guide listeners to take the next step with you, whether that’s following you on social media, joining your email list, or downloading a freebie.

Final Thoughts: Make Every Appearance Count

Podcast guesting can be a powerful tool for growing your audience and brand—if you approach it strategically. By setting clear goals, telling compelling stories, and respecting the host and their audience, you’ll maximize your impact and leave a lasting impression.

Ready to start guesting?  DM me on Instagram @angiemjordan. I’d love to hear about your journey and help you level up your podcast guesting game!