Creators Digest guide
Find Podcast Guests With No Audience
Learn how to find podcast guests with no audience using cold pitch templates, warm intros, and social media DMs to grow your show
As a new podcaster, finding guests can be daunting, especially with no audience to leverage. You will learn how to find podcast guests with no audience by using a cold pitch template that wins replies, building a warm-intro tree, and effectively using Twitter and LinkedIn DMs. Unlike other guides, we will focus on what to say in the first 30 seconds of the recording to hook your listeners and make your guests feel at ease. By the end of this guide, you will have a clear plan to book high-quality guests and grow your podcast.
1. Crafting a Cold Pitch Template That Wins Replies
Crafting a well-structured cold pitch template is crucial when reaching out to potential podcast guests with no audience. A good template should include a clear subject line, personalized introduction, and a clear call-to-action. To start, open Beehiiv and create a new email template. Begin with a subject line that grabs the attention of the recipient, such as "Guest Opportunity on [Podcast Name]".
When writing the introduction, make sure to personalize it by addressing the recipient by name and mentioning how you came across their work. For example, "I recently listened to your interview on [Other Podcast] and was impressed by your insights on [Topic]". This shows that you have taken the time to research the recipient and are genuinely interested in having them as a guest on your podcast.
The body of the email should be brief and to the point, explaining the benefits of appearing on your podcast and what they can expect from the experience. Be sure to include a clear call-to-action, such as "If you're interested, please reply to this email by [Date]". You can also use tools like YouTube Studio to research potential guests and find their contact information.
Here are some key elements to include in your cold pitch template:
* A clear and concise subject line
* A personalized introduction that shows you have done your research
* A brief explanation of the benefits of appearing on your podcast
* A clear call-to-action, including a specific date for response
* A professional closing, such as "Best regards, [Your Name]"
To increase the chances of getting a reply, make sure to research the recipient and tailor the pitch to their interests and expertise. You can use social media platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn to find potential guests and learn more about their work. For example, you can search for keywords related to your podcast topic on Twitter and find users who are actively discussing the topic.
Open Twitter, search for keywords related to your podcast topic, and start engaging with users who are actively discussing the topic. This will help you build a connection with potential guests and increase the chances of getting a reply to your cold pitch. Additionally, you can use LinkedIn DMs to reach out to potential guests and start a conversation. Just be sure to keep your messages brief and to the point, and avoid being too pushy or aggressive.
2. Building Your Warm-Intro Tree for Podcast Guest Outreach
Building a strong network of contacts is crucial for finding podcast guests with no audience, as it allows you to leverage warm introductions to potential guests. Your existing network can be a powerful tool for podcast guest outreach, and platforms like LinkedIn can help you expand your reach. Start by making a list of your existing contacts, including friends, family, colleagues, and acquaintances, and identify those who may be connected to potential podcast guests.
You can use LinkedIn to research your contacts' connections and see if they know anyone who might be a good fit for your podcast. For example, if you're looking for guests in the tech industry, you can search for your contacts who work in tech and see if they have any connections who might be interested in appearing on your podcast. You can also use LinkedIn's messaging feature to reach out to your contacts and ask if they know anyone who might be a good fit.
To build your warm-intro tree, start by categorizing your contacts into different groups, such as industry, location, or interests. This will help you to quickly identify potential connections to podcast guests. You can then use tools like LinkedIn's "People You May Know" feature to expand your network and connect with new people who may be able to introduce you to potential guests.
When reaching out to your contacts for introductions, be clear about what you're looking for and what your podcast is about. You can say something like, "I'm looking for guests to appear on my podcast, which focuses on [topic]. Do you know anyone who might be interested?" This will help your contacts to understand what you're looking for and make it easier for them to make introductions.
Open LinkedIn, navigate to the My Network tab, and start searching for your contacts who may be connected to potential podcast guests. You can also use the LinkedIn messaging feature to reach out to your contacts and ask if they know anyone who might be a good fit for your podcast. By leveraging your existing network and using platforms like LinkedIn to expand your reach, you can build a strong warm-intro tree that will help you to find and connect with potential podcast guests.
3. Using Twitter DMs to Find and Book Podcast Guests
You can find and book podcast guests with no audience using Twitter DMs by researching relevant keywords and hashtags. Start by identifying potential guests who are active on Twitter and have expertise in your desired topic area. Use Twitter's search function to look for keywords related to your podcast's niche, and browse through the results to find users who are sharing valuable content and insights.
To reach out to these potential guests, use Twitter's direct messaging feature to send a personalized and concise message. Keep your message brief and to the point, introducing yourself and your podcast, and explaining why you think they would be a great guest. You can use a template like this:
* Introduce yourself and your podcast
* Explain how you came across the potential guest's work
* Describe why you think they would be a great fit for your podcast
* Include a clear call to action, such as scheduling a recording session
For example, you could send a message like: "Hi [Name], I've been enjoying your tweets about [topic] and think you would be a great guest on my podcast. We've had [number] of episodes about [related topic] and I think your insights would really resonate with our audience. Would you be interested in scheduling a recording session using Riverside.fm?"
Once you've booked a guest, you can use Riverside.fm to record remote interviews and CapCut to edit your podcast episodes. To get started with Riverside.fm, open the app, tap the "New Recording" button, and follow the prompts to set up your session. You can then use CapCut to edit your recordings, adding music, sound effects, and other elements to enhance the listening experience. To edit your podcast episode in CapCut, open the app, tap the "New Project" button, and select the Riverside.fm recording you want to edit. From there, you can use CapCut's intuitive interface to trim, split, and arrange your clips, as well as add text overlays and other visual elements.
Open Twitter, navigate to the Messages tab, and start drafting your outreach messages to potential guests. You can also use Twitter's advanced search features to find users who are talking about specific topics or using certain hashtags. For example, you can search for "filter:videos" to find users who are sharing video content related to your podcast's niche. By using Twitter DMs in combination with tools like Riverside.fm and CapCut, you can find and book podcast guests with no audience and create high-quality episodes that engage and inform your listeners.
4. Mastering LinkedIn DMs for Professional Podcast Guest Outreach
Many African creators have successfully used LinkedIn to find and book podcast guests, including popular podcasters like Mac-Jordan Deghin and Njoku Emmanuel. To master LinkedIn DMs for professional podcast guest outreach, start by crafting a compelling message that clearly states your intentions and highlights the benefits of appearing on your podcast. Keep your message concise and personalized, addressing the potential guest by name and referencing their work or a recent post. For example, you could say: "Hi Chidi, I've been following your work on digital marketing and loved your recent article on Beehiiv, I think your insights would be a great fit for my podcast, would you be interested in a conversation?"
When sending LinkedIn DMs, make sure to use the messaging platform's built-in features to your advantage. Use the "Message" button on a user's profile to send a direct message, rather than commenting on a post or using the "InMail" feature. You can also use LinkedIn's "Who's Viewed Your Posts" feature to see which potential guests have been engaging with your content, and follow up with a personalized message.
To increase your chances of getting a response, follow up with a second message if you don't hear back within a week. You can say something like: "Hi again Chidi, just wanted to follow up on my previous message about appearing on my podcast, if you're interested I'd be happy to send over some more information".
Some popular African podcasters who have successfully used LinkedIn to book guests include those who host shows on platforms like Spotify for Podcasters, Audiomack, and BoomPlay. These creators often use LinkedIn to connect with potential guests who have a professional background or expertise in a particular area, and then use the messaging platform to send a personalized invitation to appear on their show. Open LinkedIn, navigate to the "Messaging" tab, and start crafting your own compelling message to send to potential guests, such as "Hi, I'm the host of a podcast that focuses on entrepreneurship, I came across your profile and thought your experience in the industry would be a great fit for my show, would you be interested in a conversation?"
5. What to Say in the First 30 Seconds of Your Podcast Recording
When it comes to starting a podcast recording, the first 30 seconds are crucial in setting the tone for the rest of the conversation. A well-crafted introduction can make your guests feel at ease, while also hooking your listeners and keeping them engaged. To achieve this, consider starting with a brief overview of your guest's background and expertise, as seen in popular podcasts like The Tim Ferriss Show on Spotify for Podcasters.
For example, you could say something like: "Welcome to our show, I'm your host, and today we have with us [Guest's Name], a renowned [Guest's Profession] with a wealth of experience in [Specific Area of Expertise]. We're excited to have them on the show to share their insights on [Topic of Discussion]."
This type of introduction not only provides context for your listeners but also helps to establish your guest's credibility and authority on the subject matter. Another approach is to use a personal anecdote or a thought-provoking question to spark interesting conversations, as seen in podcasts like The School of Greatness with Lewis Howes on Audiomack.
To make your introduction even more engaging, consider adding a brief story or a surprising fact related to your guest or the topic of discussion. This can help to create a sense of intrigue and encourage listeners to keep tuning in. When recording your podcast, make sure to keep your introduction concise and to the point, ideally within the first 30 seconds.
You can use tools like Riverside.fm to record and edit your podcast, and then distribute it to platforms like Spotify for Podcasters and Audiomack. Open your podcast hosting platform, such as Substack or Beehiiv, and review your previous episodes to see how you can improve your introductions. Open YouTube Studio, tap Channel customisation, and review your video descriptions to ensure they align with your podcast's tone and style.
By crafting a compelling introduction and using the right tools, you can create a engaging podcast that resonates with your listeners and makes your guests feel valued. Take the next hour to review your podcast's introduction and make adjustments as needed, and consider reaching out to potential guests on Twitter or LinkedIn to book your next episode.
6. Avoiding Common Mistakes When Reaching Out to Podcast Guests
When reaching out to potential podcast guests, it is crucial to avoid common mistakes that can harm your chances of booking them. One of the most significant errors is being too pushy or spammy in your initial message. This can be a turn-off for potential guests, making them less likely to respond to your request. To avoid this, make sure to personalize your messages and show that you have taken the time to research the guest and their work. For example, you can mention a specific episode or article they wrote that resonated with you, and explain how their expertise aligns with your podcast's theme.
Another mistake is not being clear about what you are asking for. Make sure to specify the topic you want to discuss, the format of the podcast, and what you expect from the guest in terms of preparation and time commitment. You can use a template to streamline your outreach process, but be sure to customize it for each guest. You can also use tools like Beehiiv or Substack to manage your outreach efforts and keep track of responses.
When it comes to handling international payments for guest appearances, it is essential to use a reliable and secure payment system. Tools like Wise or Payoneer can help you facilitate payments to guests in different countries. Open Wise, go to the Payments tab, and set up a new payment to your guest. You can also use Payoneer to send payments to guests in over 200 countries. To get started, sign up for a Payoneer account, go to the Pay tab, and enter your guest's payment details.
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when reaching out to potential podcast guests:
* Research the guest's schedule and availability before reaching out
* Be respectful of their time and boundaries
* Offer a clear and concise summary of your podcast and the topic you want to discuss
* Provide a specific date and time for the recording, and make sure to follow up if you don't hear back
* Use Twitter or LinkedIn DMs to follow up with guests who have not responded to your initial message, but be sure to keep your messages brief and to the point. For example, you can send a follow-up message on Twitter, saying "Hi, just wanted to follow up on my previous message about appearing on my podcast. Would love to hear back from you and discuss further."
7. Monetizing Your Podcast with Sponsorships and Ads
Monetizing a podcast with sponsorships and ads requires a strategic approach, starting with understanding your target audience and the value you can offer to potential sponsors. To begin, open YouTube Studio, tap Channel customisation, and review your podcast's About text to ensure it clearly communicates your niche and audience demographics. This information is crucial when reaching out to brands for potential sponsorships.
Using platforms like TikTok Creator Marketplace can help connect you with brands interested in sponsoring podcasts. To get started, create a profile showcasing your podcast's unique selling points, such as engagement rates and audience demographics. You can also use Beehiiv to manage your podcast's email newsletters and promote your sponsorship opportunities to potential brands.
When it comes to ads, consider using platforms like Audiomack or Spotify for Podcasters to reach a wider audience. For example, Spotify for Podcasters allows you to upload your podcast and monetize it with ads, while Audiomack offers a similar service with a focus on independent artists and creators. To expand your reach in Africa, use BoomPlay, a popular music and podcast streaming platform in the region.
To manage payments from sponsors and ad revenue, consider using payment platforms like Payoneer, Paystack, or Flutterwave. These services allow you to receive payments from international brands and convert them to your local currency. For instance, Payoneer offers a range of payment options, including bank transfers and debit cards, while Paystack provides a simple and secure way to receive payments online.
In addition to these platforms, you can also use Riverside.fm to record high-quality podcast episodes and Substack to offer exclusive content to your loyal listeners. By diversifying your revenue streams and using the right platforms, you can successfully monetize your podcast and achieve long-term growth. Open TikTok Creator Marketplace, create a profile, and start exploring potential sponsorship opportunities for your podcast within the next hour.
8. Measuring the Success of Your Podcast Guest Outreach Efforts
Measuring the success of your podcast guest outreach efforts is crucial to understanding what works and what doesn't. To start, you need to define what success means to you, whether it's increasing your audience size, boosting engagement, or driving website traffic. Engagement is a key metric to track, as it indicates how well your audience is responding to your content. You can use tools like YouTube Studio to track your podcast's performance, including metrics like views, likes, and comments. Open YouTube Studio, tap Channel customisation, paste your new About text, and then navigate to the Analytics tab to view your podcast's performance data.
To measure audience growth, you can track the number of new subscribers, followers, or listeners you gain over time. Tools like Spotify for Podcasters and Apple Podcasts Analytics provide detailed insights into your podcast's performance, including listener demographics and engagement metrics. You can also use tools like Beehiiv to track your podcast's performance across multiple platforms, including YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.
In addition to tracking metrics, you can also use tools like Audiomack and BoomPlay to analyze your podcast's performance and identify areas for improvement. For example, you can use Audiomack to track your podcast's engagement metrics, such as likes, comments, and shares, and use that data to inform your future guest outreach efforts. You can also use BoomPlay to analyze your podcast's audience demographics and adjust your content strategy accordingly.
To take your analysis to the next level, you can use tools like Google Analytics to track website traffic and conversion rates. For example, you can set up a goal in Google Analytics to track the number of listeners who visit your website and sign up for your newsletter. You can also use tools like Payoneer, Paystack, and Flutterwave to track your podcast's revenue and expenses, and use that data to inform your monetization strategy. By tracking these metrics and using these tools, you can gain a deeper understanding of your podcast's performance and make data-driven decisions to improve your guest outreach efforts.
9. Frequently asked questions
How do I find podcast guests with no audience?
What is a cold pitch template?
How do I build a warm-intro tree?
Can I use Twitter DMs to find podcast guests?
How do I avoid being too pushy or spammy when reaching out to podcast guests?
Can I monetize my podcast with sponsorships and ads?
How do I measure the success of my podcast guest outreach efforts?
What is the best way to craft a compelling introduction for my podcast?
Can I use LinkedIn DMs to find podcast guests?
Finding podcast guests with no audience requires effort and creativity, but with the right strategies and tools, you can book high-quality guests and grow your podcast. Remember to craft a compelling cold pitch template, build a warm-intro tree, and leverage social media platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn. By following these steps and measuring the success of your outreach efforts, you can create a successful podcast that attracts and engages listeners. Take action tonight by researching potential guests and crafting a personalized message to start booking your next podcast guest.