In a little over two weeks, we’re going to hit 300 podcast episodes, combined, on my two podcast shows, Vegan Visibility and Plant Based Eating for Health.
This lends itself to experience that you can’t get without being in the trenches.
As a host, and a featured expert, there are questions that are worth asking.
- How do I find shows?
- What do I send a host?
- Should I pay to be on a show?
In this episode, I dig into these questions and more.
Question One: How do I find shows?
There are dozens upon dozens of places to find opportunities such as Apple Podcast, Amazon Podcast, Google Podcast and Spotify.
There are also groups on Facebook and LinkedIn. As well, a quick search on LinkedIn with the words, “Podcast Shows + Topic” that are likely to bring up potential shows.
When you find shows, you need to make sure the host features experts AND the show is current.
Amazingly, many shows do what’s referred to as pod-fading shortly after their seventh episode.
Listen to the full episode to find out the details of researching a show.
Question Two: What do I send a host?
Before sending anything, make sure you have reviewed the show. It’s important to know if the host brings on guests. If they don’t, why bother sending them anything?
Once you determine if you are a fit by reading their description, listening to their show, and checking the host out on social media, you are wise to send a short, but detailed, email message.
You may also want to send a private message via any social platform they seem to be active on. Personally, I like reaching out to hosts by way of LinkedIn.
Nowadays, email doesn’t always make it to its intended destination.
Once the host confirms you are a fit, then send more detailed information such as an Expert One Sheet.
Although most hosts won’t ask for a One Sheet, it’s a nice way to showcase your professionalism and expertise.
Question Three: Should I pay to be on a show?
99.9% of the time, the answer is no. You have to have a really good reason for making an investment for a show.
Most hosts do not charge. I had one host who wanted $5. This seemed to minimize the value of the show.
A client told me they were asked to pay $1,500 to be on a show. Another, $5,000.
To make that kind of investment, you absolutely must have a solid marketing plan in place. Additionally, does the show get the kind of visibility that justifies this type of investment?
And… do you have your foundation in place including a fully functioning website, a way for people to subscribe to your list, and a conversion funnel?
In most cases, again 99.9% of the time, I recommend against paying.
Another Way A Host Asked for Compensation
One client asked me how I felt about a “penalty fee” for being a no-show.
Truthfully, in the hundreds of shows I’ve appeared on, and my 300 episodes, I’ve never heard of such a thing.
The client has been on quite a few shows, is very seasoned and found it off-putting. I was in complete agreement with her.
That’s not to say such a thing doesn’t exist, but the fee seemed to set the tone for distrust right out the gate. It was a $25 fee and to me, it set the tone for an awkward situation. IMHO
Podcast appearances are a great way to showcase your expertise, bring value to an audience and increase your visibility. But be sure you have a plan in place to justify the time and cost associated with getting on shows.
Access Boost Your Authority & Influence
Want to make sure you are on the right track? If yes, be sure to download the Boost Your Authority & Influence Through the Power of Podcast Appearances
And! Find out what is planned for 2022 with my show, Vegan Visibility. Lots of fun and exciting things in store.