Prep Before the Pitch: Podcast Research Tips

Reaching out to a podcast without doing your homework is like showing up to a job interview without knowing what the company does. If you want to land quality podcast guest spots—and actually connect with the audience—podcast research is key. The more tailored your pitch, the better your chances of getting a “yes.”

Know Your Audience First

Before you do any research for a podcast, know who you’re trying to reach. Are your ideal readers new parents? Entrepreneurs? Romance fans? History buffs?

Clarifying your target audience helps you find podcasts that attract those types of listeners. You don’t need to match exactly—just overlap in a way that feels natural.

If you write historical fiction, a writing podcast works. So does one focused on women’s history, period dramas, or niche hobbies from the same era.

Use Podcast Directories and Apps

Start your search with free directories:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• Podchaser
• Listen Notes
• Goodpods

You can search by category, keyword, or topic. Look for podcasts that match your book’s themes, audience, or genre.

Many apps also show reviews, ratings, episode length, and publishing frequency—all helpful for choosing shows that are active and reliable.

Review the Show Before Reaching Out

Once you find a show, listen to at least one full episode. Look for:

• Tone and format (interview, solo, panel?)
• Guest types (authors, experts, entrepreneurs?)
• Style (formal, funny, deep dives?)
• Episode length and pace

You want to pitch a show where you’d fit in naturally—not one where your story would feel out of place.

Also check if the show is still active. If it hasn’t released an episode in six months, it may not be worth pursuing.

Check the Podcast Website or Social Media

Many hosts include guest info, booking forms, or email addresses on their websites or Instagram bios.

Some include pitching guidelines—follow them exactly. If not, tailor your pitch based on what you learn from their online presence. Mention a recent episode, shared interest, or audience focus to show you’ve done your homework.

If the host has written a book or run events, read up. These personal touches help your pitch stand out.

Research the Podcast Audience and Reach

Don’t worry too much about follower count or big-name guests. Smaller shows often have more loyal, engaged audiences—and they’re often easier to book.

That said, try to get a feel for audience size and activity:

• Are there comments or shares on social posts?
• Are people tagging the host or referencing episodes?
• Does the show have visible engagement or community interaction?

A smaller, enthusiastic listener base is better than a big show with zero response.

Keep Track of What You Learn

Use a spreadsheet or notes app to track potential shows. Include:

• Podcast name
• Host name and email
• Link to the website or booking page
• Notes about audience or content
• A few relevant episode titles
• Status (pitched, booked, declined, no reply)

Having this info on hand makes follow-up easier and helps you stay organized as your outreach grows.

Final Thoughts

Pitching podcasts is a lot easier—and more successful—when you start with research. A good pitch shows respect for the host, relevance to their audience, and confidence in your story.

Don’t rush the process. A few strong, well-researched pitches will go further than dozens of generic ones. And once you land the right interviews, the connection with new readers is well worth the effort.