A while back, I interviewed an author.

Their book was brilliant. Their insights were game-changing. They could have blown the audience away.

But five minutes in, I knew it was going to be a long conversation.

They kept stopping mid-answer, second-guessing every word. Their mic made them sound like they were calling in from a tunnel. Their background was cluttered and chaotic. Clothes piled on the bed, random junk on the floor. The worst part? They weren’t present. It felt like they were just waiting for their turn to talk.

By the time we wrapped up, I knew two things:

I wasn’t bringing them back.
Other podcast hosts would feel the same way.

Now, let me tell you about another author.

Same type of book. Same kind of interview. But this time, they showed up ready.

Their audio was crisp, their lighting was clean, and their background was simple but intentional. They sat back, eye level with the camera, fully engaged in the conversation. They didn’t overthink their answers. They just talked—naturally, confidently, like a human. They even referenced past episodes of the show, which made me instantly respect them more.

That episode kept getting shared. Other podcast hosts reached out about them. Bigger interviews followed.

Because podcast hosts talk. And when you show up like a pro, the opportunities multiply.

So if you’re ready to stop “doing podcasts” and start using them as a long-term strategy, keep reading.

1. Why Podcasts Are a Secret Weapon for Authors

Most authors think the key to selling books is social media.

But let’s be real—how many times have you posted about your book, only for the algorithm to bury it in seconds?

Social media is fighting for scraps of attention.

Podcasting gives you a captive audience.

It gives you 30 to 60 uninterrupted minutes where people actually listen. It creates deep conversations that build trust. It produces evergreen content that stays online forever.

A LinkedIn post disappears in a day. A podcast interview gets discovered weeks, months, even years later.

Podcast listeners take action.

They buy books. They book speakers. They sign up for coaching.

If you’re serious about selling books, building credibility, and landing speaking gigs, it’s time to stop seeing podcasting as a one-time promo tactic and start treating it like a weekly discipline.

2. Don’t Just “Do a Podcast”—Make It a System

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of podcasts that would be a perfect fit for you.

But not every podcast is for you. And not every host wants you.

Before you start pitching yourself, do the research.

Look for podcasts that have guests similar to you, are actively publishing, and have an engaged audience.

Find five podcasts that align with your expertise. Then, listen to at least one episode before reaching out.

The worst thing you can do is mass-pitch every show with a generic message.

Hosts can smell that a mile away.

Instead, make it personal.

How to Pitch Yourself Without Sounding Salesy

Use this script for DMs or emails:

Subject: Potential Guest for [Podcast Name]

Hey [Host’s Name],

I’ve been following [Podcast Name] and really enjoyed your recent episode with [mention a specific guest or topic]. Loved the conversation about [something specific they covered]—it really resonated with me.

I’d love to bring value to your audience with a conversation on [your topic]. My book, [Book Title], dives deep into [your expertise], and I’d love to share [specific, actionable insights you can bring].

I can also share the episode across my platforms, making sure more people discover your show.

Would love to discuss if this is a fit. Either way, keep up the amazing work—big fan of what you’re doing.

Best, [Your Name]

And if you’re serious about scaling your podcast appearances, you can even reach out to my friend Kelly Teemer—she specializes in getting authors placed on high-quality interviews.

3. Setting Up Like a Pro

Internet Connection Matters

Most podcasts are done remotely, and nothing is worse than a choppy connection.

Plug directly into your computer using an ethernet cable whenever possible.
If you must use WiFi, make sure your internet speed is at least 50-100 Mbps.
Run a speed test before the interview and reset your router if needed.

Audio and Video Setup

Best budget mic: RØDE NT-USB Mini – professional sound without breaking the bank.
Higher-end option: Shure MV7 – used by top podcasters for crystal-clear audio.
Great webcam option: Insta360 Link – sharp video quality, auto-tracking to keep you in frame.

Record in a quiet room with minimal echo. If your space is empty or has a lot of hard surfaces, add noise-dampening panels or even a rug to absorb sound.

4. Be Engaged, Present, and Memorable

Don’t just answer questions. Make it a conversation.

Listen actively. Reference past episodes. Ask the host follow-up questions.

And most importantly, be present.

A great trick is to do a mock interview before your actual recording.

5. The Sticky Story That Makes You Unforgettable

The best guests aren’t the ones with the best facts. They’re the ones who tell the best stories.

Think of a "sticky story" that captures your expertise in a way that’s unforgettable.

It should be personal, emotional, unexpected, and relatable.

A great sticky story is something you can rehearse so that when the time comes, you can deliver it naturally.

6. What to Do After the Interview Drops

A podcast episode is an evergreen asset. It keeps working for you if you use it right.

Share the episode on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. Get short clips. Embed the interview on your website. Send it to your email list.

7. Help the Host by Repurposing and Reposting

Most podcast hosts are trying to grow their audience.

You’re doing them a huge favor by continuing to post about the episode weeks after it airs.

Not everyone sees that you were on the podcast right away, and it’s perfectly fine to repurpose your content.

For those in the back: It’s okay to repurpose and repost certain content so it gains more reach.

People like to be reminded just as much as they like to learn new things.

Here's an in depth video for you to check out on how I approach how to show up on a podcast if you're a beginner.

In-Person Podcast Interviews Are Happening

I finally got to go to Phoenix and interview two authors in person. It was fantastic.

I fixed up the van, got all new tires, and enjoyed the ride there. Doing the interviews was super fun, and there will be more in-person interviews coming soon.

Stay tuned for those episodes coming soon!

Are You an Author With a Great Story?

I love interviewing authors who bring real insights and engaging stories.

If you want to be considered for a future episode, message me.

I can’t guarantee a recording right away, but I’ll certainly check you out.

Whenever You're Ready, Here Are 3 Ways I Can Help You:

Offer clarity – Get clear on your message so people know exactly what you do.
An author website that attracts leads – A site that turns visitors into opportunities.
Content strategy that builds your brand – Show up consistently and grow your authority.

If you’re ready to elevate your author brand and presence, message me.

Practice Gratitude & Patience

Hussein

Confessions of a Podcast Host: Why Some Authors Get Podcast Invites (And Others Get Ghosted)