How to Get on Podcasts and Promote Your Book Like a Star

Why Podcasting Is a Game-Changer for Authors

In the ever-expanding universe of book promotion, one platform has quietly become a powerful tool for authors to connect with readers, establish credibility, and boost book salespodcasts. Whether youve published your debut memoir or your fifth sci-fi novel, getting featured on the right podcasts can elevate your voice and put your book in front of thousands of eager ears.

Unlike traditional media, podcast interviews feel intimate and conversational. Listeners are typically tuned in during personal momentson a jog, while cooking, or commutingand that kind of setting builds a sense of trust and connection. And guess what? People tend to buy from those they trust.

So, how do you get on podcasts and actually promote your book like a star? Lets break it down.

Step 1: Get Crystal Clear on Your Message

Before you even send your first pitch, ask yourself: What do I want to be known for?

Yes, your book is the star, but your podcast appearance needs more than just, I wrote thisplease buy it. Consider the deeper themes of your book, the personal stories that led to it, or the unique knowledge you bring. Did writing it change your life? Can it change someone elses? Are there fascinating insights or timely topics you can speak to?

For example, if you wrote a novel about overcoming adversity, you might frame your podcast topic around resilience, rather than just your writing journey. If your book is a thriller based on real events, highlight your research process and how it connects to current social issues.

Remember: Hosts arent just looking for authors. Theyre looking for stories, experts, and conversations that matter.

Step 2: Identify the Right Shows for Your Message

Not all podcasts are created equaland not all are right for your book. Start by researching shows in your niche.

Think about your ideal reader: what do they listen to? If youve written a self-help book for working moms, a tech podcast wont cut itbut a parenting or lifestyle show might.

Use podcast directories like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Listen Notes. You can even search keywords on Google like Top podcasts for [your genre/topic]. Look at how active the podcast is, the type of guests they feature, and how engaged their audience seems to be (check their social media presence too).

Pro tip: Dont ignore smaller shows. A highly targeted podcast with 1,000 loyal listeners can lead to more conversions than a massive show with a general audience.

Step 3: Craft a Pitch That Doesnt Suck

This is where many authors stumble. Your pitch needs to make it easy for the host to say yes.

Keep your email short, personalized, and focused on value. Dont ramble about your life storyshow them how your presence will benefit their audience.

Heres a basic pitch template you can customize:

Hi [Podcast Hosts Name],

Im [Your Name], author of [Book Title], a [brief descriptor, e.g., thriller about overcoming childhood trauma or guide to building emotional resilience]. Ive been following your show [Podcast Name], especially your recent episode with [Guest Name]loved your take on [specific insight].

Id love to join you for a conversation around [topic idea], drawing from my experience writing [Book Title] and my personal story about [key insight]. Your audience might appreciate [how it will help/entertain them].

If youre open, Id be happy to send a copy of my book or schedule a short intro call.

Thanks for considering, and keep up the great work!

Best, [Your Name]

Authenticity wins every time. Show you know their content, and highlight why youre a natural fit.

Step 4: Prepare Like a Pro

So youve landed a guest spotcongrats! Now, lets make sure you shine when the mic goes live.

Start by listening to a few episodes of the show youre appearing on. Pay attention to the hosts tone, pacing, and common questions. Practice answering common podcast interview questions like:

• What inspired you to write your book?

• Whats one takeaway listeners can expect from your story?

• Whats something people misunderstand about your topic?

Also, prep a short, compelling way to talk about your book without sounding like a commercial. Your goal is to tell a story that makes people want morethen theyll naturally look you up.

Keep a few key points handy, along with your book title, website, and a gentle call to action at the end (If this resonated with you, you can find my book at).

Step 5: Make It Easy for Listeners to Find You

During the podcast, the host will usually ask where listeners can find your work. Have a clear answer.
Ideally, set up a simple landing page with links to your book, social media, and maybe even a freebie (like a sample chapter or bonus guide). This not only builds engagementit builds your email list too.

Heres what that might sound like:

If you enjoyed our chat and want to dive deeper, you can grab a free sample of my book at [yourwebsite.com], or just search for [Book Title] on Amazon.

If youve got a podcast tour lined up, consider using a tool like Linktree or a custom short link to make sharing easier.

Step 6: Repurpose and Keep the Momentum Going

Each podcast interview is content gold. Dont just do the episode and move onrepurpose it!

• Share soundbites or video clips on Instagram and TikTok

• Create a blog post or LinkedIn article summarizing key points

• Send the episode to your email list

• Add the interview link to your website or media kit

Every podcast you appear on becomes part of your public credibility. The more you show up, the more other hosts will start reaching out to you.

Step 7: Keep Building Relationships

After the episode goes live, dont ghost the host. Send a thank-you note. Share the episode with your audience. Leave a review for their podcast. These small gestures can lead to repeat invites, word-of-mouth referrals, and deeper industry connections.

The podcasting world thrives on relationships. Treat it like a long-term strategy, not a one-and-done promo stunt.

Final Thoughts: You Dont Need to Be FamousYou Just Need to Be Authentic

Podcasting isnt about being flashy or selling hard. Its about real conversations, human connections, and sharing your unique voice. Whether youre launching your book next week or youve been sitting on it for months, podcast guesting is one of the most effective and affordable ways to get it in front of the right people.

So start small, pitch smart, and speak from the heart. The ears are out therewaiting.

By the Way

If all this sounds exciting but also kind of overwhelming, know that youre not alone. Lots of authors struggle to craft a strategy that gets real tractionespecially when it comes to podcast outreach, branding, or developing a strong narrative that hosts and readers care about.

Thats where a team like Best Sellers LLC can be a game-changer. They work behind the scenes helping authors become seen, heard, and remembered in todays crowded marketplace. Whether youre just starting out or planning your next big promo wave, its worth knowing that expert support is out there when you need it.

Because every great book deserves to be talked aboutand with the right voice, yours can be.