Landing Podcast Appearances

There are many promotional approaches writers can take when launching a new book. Because the concept behind Praying Personalities: Finding Your Natural Prayer Style (Kregel, Feb. 2024) is unique and intriguing, I decided to pursue interviews with podcasters. I was right: fifty podcasters booked and interviewed me.

Here was my process to make inquiries and follow through:

• Make a list. 

I belong to the Advanced Writers and Speakers Association (AWSA) and the Christian Authors Network (CAN). Both organizations have lists of podcasters that are proprietary for their members. I created a Word document chart with the podcaster’s name, podcast name, contact info, query date, interview date, episode date, and a box to mark when I’d sent a thank-you note. I added to this list as I learned of other podcasts. 

• Create a one-sheet. 

Using a Canva flyer template, I created a digital one-sheet (it’s actually TWO pages) for the purpose of seeking interviews (or even speaking gigs) related to the book. I included my headshot, the book cover, the book’s hook and summary, the audience takeaway/benefits, a short bio, and a list of interview questions. 

• Write your query. 

I sent a formal, individualized email separately to each podcaster containing these paragraphs: (1) a couple of cordial sentences to establish our friendship or point of connection; (2) an inquiry about interviewing on the podcast with bulleted info about my book, its hook and a short summary, and the kind of approach we could take in the interview—given the podcaster’s audience; (3) a short note of appreciation.

• Research the podcast. 

I studied each podcast, so I knew the focus and audience. I also subscribed and provided a review when I could locate those options. (Some are hard to figure out!)

• Email the queries. 

Along with the individualized query, I sent the following:

• Headshot
• Book cover
• One-sheet

Interview invitations came quickly, and I was ready with 4”x6” notecards with notes I needed because the book was heavy on detailed content. 

These were my follow-up steps:

• Promote the interview. After an interview, that same day I promoted the fact that I had done that interview by creating memes with Canva—using graphics from the podcaster’s website. I posted this along with the podcaster’s link and an Amazon link (when possible) to my book on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

• Thank the podcaster. For every interview I wrote a snail mail thank-you note and included my business card and Looking Up! logo sticker. 

• Promote the episode. When the episode aired, I used graphics the podcaster provided to promote that episode in the same manner. 

Several years ago I considered creating a podcast and even pursued training, but I eventually decided that it’s better for my own sanity to just partner with those who’ve already got those ministries in motion . . . and do it well. 

“Join me in spreading the news;  together let’s get the word out.”

Psalm 34:3 MSG

Question: What’s your favorite podcast?  Why? How did it capture your attention and/or bring value to your life? I look forward to your comments.