When I first began my career in the writing world, I thought my days would be filled with typing in isolation, lost in my creative bubble. If someone had told me I’d end up hosting podcasts, I would have laughed. Now that I host the Authors On Mission podcast and have been a guest on many other shows, I realize the true value behind it all. Podcasts are a simple yet essential way for authors to connect with their audiences, share insights, build a community, and express their creative process in ways I couldn’t have imagined before.
It’s true. Podcasts offer authors a chance to showcase their expertise in an intimate, long-form format that builds trust with listeners. Unlike social media, where content is fleeting, podcast episodes remain accessible for months or even years, continuing to attract new audiences over time.
As of 2025, reports show that over 3 million podcasts exist out there, each with over 189 episodes. Additionally, other reports show that the average time listening to podcasts has grown by 450%.
Listeners of podcasts are not just passive social media scrollers. Studies reveal that they seek new information actively, and 20% of them are early adopters of new products. A majority of them possess a college degree or higher and a household income of over $100K. Podcasts are therefore an ideal platform for authors who would like to gain active and influential readers.
So, whether you're an established thought leader or gearing up for your very first interview, this handbook will provide you with the expertise needed to excel on any podcast stage. You will learn how to properly prepare for, deliver, and leverage your very first podcast interview to market your book and personal brand.
Before You Book the Interview
Before reaching out to build your author platform, you need to find podcasts that showcase your industry expertise.Begin by looking for shows that possess an audience that has an interest in your book's topic. This is due to the fact that not every podcast would be suitable for your book. Be patient:
- Identify shows with audiences aligned with your book’s themes.
- Listen to previous episodes to gauge the tone and style.
- Review guest lists to see if similar authors have been featured.
- Evaluating Which Shows Align with Your Book’s Message
Before pitching yourself as a guest, ensure:
- The podcast covers topics relevant to your book.
- The audience is engaged and matches your target readership.
- The host’s style aligns with your communication strengths.
Now that you’ve found the right podcast, it’s time to craft a pitch that stands out.
A compelling pitch includes:
- A brief introduction about who you are.
- A hook that connects your book’s theme to the podcast’s focus.
- Why their audience will benefit from your insights.
- A sample of discussion topics you can cover.
Along with your pitch, always send a media kit that allows the podcast host to easily learn more about you and your work. Your media kit should contain a professional bio, some good photos of you, and a one-sheet summarizing your book, along with key messages and any endorsements. If you have been on other podcasts or interviews previously, provide links so the host can view your previous speaking appearances.
Now that you have booked an interview, it is time to plan for a hassle-free recording session.
Before Recording
A successful podcast interview starts much earlier than the recording itself. Being properly prepared will get you sounding professional, confident, and engaging.
- Gather Your Tech Essentials
Once you've landed an interview, it's time to prepare for success. For a professional podcast interview, invest in some equipment that will give you professional-sounding audio. A quality USB or XLR microphone will pick up your voice nicely, and a set of headphones will allow you to monitor your audio and block out background noise. A pop filter will soften harsh sounds and plosives, making for a smooth and professional listening experience.
Even with professional equipment, tech glitches happen. Always:
- Conduct a sound check before recording.
- Adjust gain levels to avoid distortion.
- Use wired internet for a stable connection.
These tips are particularly important to keep in mind. I’ve seen the consequences of forgetting to test many times. During one of my own interviews, in fact, a guest's audio repeatedly failed despite their professional setup. Having a backup phone ready to dial in saved the interview. Always test your equipment and have contingency plans.
Your recording space is a significant factor in the quality of your interview. Record in a quiet, echo-free space to limit background noise and interruptions. Soft furnishings such as curtains and rugs will soak up sound and improve the overall quality of the sound. Let other people in your household or workplace know when you are recording so that you can keep interruptions to a minimum for the interview.
Along with sound quality, visual quality is important as well, particularly if the podcast also videos in addition to recording audio. Create a professional and clean background. For instance, you could use a simple background with minimal decoration to avoid distracting you. Ensure the room is well lit so that you can be heard clearly and are engaging on camera. If you're being videoed, dress for the environment. For instance, wear solid colors instead of distracting patterns. Your visual presence can be as powerful as your voice, so think about how both of those work together to portray you.
No matter how well-prepared you are, tech issues can still arise. Always have a backup plan to ensure your interview goes smoothly. Some examples include having:
- A secondary recording device
- A phone ready to dial in if your connection drops
- Alternative contact methods for the host
Now that your setup is ready, let’s focus on crafting your message.
- Craft Your Message
Building author credibility through a clear, concise message about your book and brand is necessary before you do interviews or public speaking. In that way, your audience understands the main points and stays with your story.
Begin with summarizing 2-3 main points you'd like your audience to recall. To make your message more engaging, tell stories—personal anecdotes, behind-the-scenes, or real uses of the material in your book. These place your message in concrete and memorable terms. Craft also brief quips that are quotable or easily shared via social media.
Remember to come prepared to answer common questions. Hosts often ask:
- What inspired your book?
- Who should read it and why?
- How does your book solve a problem or provide value?
While it’s important to promote your book, your goal should be to engage listeners by offering insights, practical takeaways, and meaningful discussions. Practice your book’s elevator pitch so you can summarize it in 30-60 seconds, sparking curiosity and interest.
Be sure that this pitch is not flooded with technical jargon. A technical author I interviewed brilliantly explained complex trading concepts using everyday analogies. This made their message accessible to a broad audience while maintaining credibility.
Once your message is crafted, you’ll be ready to get interview-ready and connect with your audience.
- Prepare for the Interview
To nail your first podcast interview, begin by getting acquainted with the host's interviewing style. When I'm a guest on a podcast, I tune in to some of the latest episodes so I can easily refer to previous discussions, building immediate rapport with the host. You can also tune in to previous episodes to identify the host's tone, their line of questioning, common topics, and guests' responses to them.
Develop pertinent examples and case studies to reinforce your main points, drawing on real-world experience or data substantiating your message. Craft compelling anecdotes—personal, emotional, or humorous anecdotes—to make the dialogue interesting and captivating. Develop a cheat sheet of important statistics. When you create this, be sure to memorize or keep notes on:
- Book-related statistics
- Industry trends
- Supporting research
Finally, plan your call-to-action, deciding how you want listeners to engage with you after the interview. Examples include visiting your website for a free resource, following you on social media, or joining your email list.
Now, let’s discuss best practices during the interview.
During Recording
A great podcast interview goes beyond just answering questions—it’s about creating an engaging and authentic conversation. The way you deliver your message and interact with the host determines how memorable your appearance will be.
- Practice Proper Podcast Etiquette
Throughout the recording, maintain a professional and approachable attitude. Start with a friendly introduction to the host, and end by thanking them for the opportunity to join the show.
A quick, informal chat before the interview begins can help you connect with the host and settle any nerves. Take this time to ask about their experience with similar interviews and to clarify any last-minute details.
When the interview wraps up, thank the host for the opportunity, express your appreciation for their time, and offer to share additional resources or stay in touch. Leave the door open for future collaboration.
Sticking to podcast etiquette allows you to establish a great rapport with the host and ensures a smooth interview. Now, let’s take a look at some speaking tips to enhance your podcast appearance.
- Remember these Speaking Tips
Follow these tips to shine in your interview when the red “record” button lights up.
First, approach the recording with a conversational mindset rather than viewing it as a formal speech. Treat the discussion like a dialogue between two people rather than a rigid Q&A session. Active listening is just as important as speaking. Responding naturally to the host’s comments and tying your answers back to their points will make the conversation flow smoothly.
When speaking, vary your tone and pace to maintain interest. Avoid monotone delivery, as this can make even the most interesting insights seem dull. Instead, emphasize key points with changes in pitch, intentional pauses, and vocal energy.
Additionally, use descriptive language and storytelling to engage listeners. A well-placed anecdote can illustrate your points more effectively than facts alone. For example, if discussing the challenges of writing your book, sharing a brief behind-the-scenes struggle can create a connection with the audience.
Be mindful of filler words like "um," "uh," and "you know." While a few are natural, excessive use can be distracting. If you need a moment to gather your thoughts, a short pause is more effective than filling space with unnecessary words.
Don’t forget that body language matters! Psychologist Albert Mehrabian’s "7-38-55 rule" tells us that approximately 7% of the message comes from the words, 36% of the message comes from your voice and 57% of the message comes from your nonverbal communication. So, maintain good posture, make eye contact (if on video), and use natural gestures to reinforce your message. Your confidence and enthusiasm will shine through, making your delivery more compelling.
Now that we’ve covered effective speaking techniques, let’s move on to strategies for preparing your key messages and handling tough questions with ease.
- Expect On-Air Blunders
Mistakes happen, even to the most seasoned speakers. What matters most is how you handle them. Once, a professional book writing expert on the Authors On Mission podcast couldn't immediately answer a question. But, instead of panicking, they honestly said “That's a great question, let me think about that for a moment.” This authentic response was much better than trying to fake expertise. So, a minor slip-up won’t ruin your interview, but your response to it can either enhance or detract from your credibility.
That said, some common pitfalls can trip up even the best guests. Being aware of these challenges—and knowing how to avoid them—will help you stay composed and deliver a strong, engaging interview.
- Pitfall: Letting nerves take over and affecting your performance
- Tip: Practice deep breathing and positive self-talk before the interview to stay calm.
- Pitfall: Freezing or rambling due to lack of preparation
- Tip: Prepare answers to common questions and practice with a friend or in front of a mirror.
- Pitfall: Losing the interviewer’s interest with unfocused or irrelevant responses
- Tip: Keep your answers concise and relevant, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to stay on track.
- Pitfall: Filling pauses with nervous chatter or interrupting the interviewer
- Tip: Embrace brief pauses to collect your thoughts before answering. It shows confidence.
- Pitfall: Confusing the interviewer with overly technical language
- Tip: Adjust your language based on your audience—explain complex ideas in simple terms when needed.
When handled with grace, even a misstep can make you seem more relatable to the audience. Listeners appreciate authenticity, so rather than stressing over perfection, focus on delivering value and staying present in the conversation.
With these strategies in mind, you’re ready to confidently navigate any interview and leave a lasting impression.
After Recording
Wrapping up a podcast interview is just the beginning. To truly benefit, focus on strengthening connections, promoting your episode wisely, and using the experience for future growth. This section covers key post-interview strategies to boost your impact.
- Turn One Interview into Ongoing Opportunities
One guest on the Authors On Mission podcast once mentioned how they personally respond to any audience member who reaches out after hearing their interview. This consistent approach is brilliant not only because it helps build their platform and credibility over time because it opens doors to more opportunities.
So, part of your book marketing strategies, send a simple follow-up email to the host, expressing gratitude and sharing any updates on audience response. This helps maintain the connection and opens doors for future collaborations. Here are some other ways to Strengthen Relationships:
- Offer a Service in Return – Share their content, write a testimonial, or invite them to contribute to your platform.
- Propose Partnership Ideas – Explore cross-promotional opportunities, co-hosted events, or collaborative projects.
- Engage with Their Network – Follow them on social media, comment on their posts, and participate in their community.
- Develop Relationships with Podcast Networks – Identify other shows within their network that align with your message. A warm introduction from a previous host can improve your chances of landing more interviews.
Strengthening connections after an interview builds trust and increases your chances of being invited back. Now, let’s explore how to share your podcast episode effectively.
- Share the Episode Effectively
About 3-4 weeks after I’m done recording a podcast, I provide my guests with links to the published content. What they decide to do with it is up to them. But the smart authors know to use this material to their advantage.
- Creating Content from Interview Highlights – Extract key moments and insights to share across platforms.
- Leveraging Clips for Social Media – Use short, engaging video or audio snippets to capture interest.
- Building Your Author Platform – Position yourself as an expert by sharing the episode on your website, email list, and professional pages.
- Converting Podcast Appearances into Sales – Include a strong call-to-action in your promotional materials, directing listeners to your book, website, or services.
By strategically sharing your episode, you maximize its impact and ensure long-term benefits. Now, let’s look at how you can use your podcast interviews to build a sustainable speaking career.
- Build on Long-term Speaking Success
After my second podcast interview, I felt great about the conversation but also realized there were a few moments where I could have been clearer or more concise. Instead of brushing it off, I decided to track my performance. I listened back to the interview, noting where I could improve—whether it was refining my answers or eliminating filler words. This reflection helped me see areas for growth that I hadn't noticed at the moment. Over time, I used that feedback to refine my approach, and with each interview, I became a better, more confident speaker.
So, to make the most of every interview, it’s important to track your progress, refine your approach, and leverage each opportunity for future growth. Here’s how:
- Tracking Your Interview Performance – Keep a record of your interviews, noting key takeaways, what went well, and areas for improvement. Reviewing past performances helps identify patterns and refine your delivery over time.
- Gathering Testimonials and Feedback – Reach out to podcast hosts for feedback or testimonials. Positive endorsements from hosts can boost your credibility and make it easier to book future interviews.
- Building Your Reputation as a Great Guest – Consistently delivering valuable insights and engaging conversations establishes you as a go-to guest. Being punctual, well-prepared, and easy to work with makes hosts more likely to recommend you to others.
- Leveraging Appearances for Speaking Engagements – Showcase your interviews on your website and social media to position yourself as an expert. A strong track record can open doors to keynote speaking gigs, panel discussions, and other media opportunities.
Conclusion
Thinking back on my experience with podcasts, I now see that interviews are just as important to an author’s growth as the writing process itself. From my first experience as both a host and a guest, I quickly saw the power of podcasts in connecting with listeners, growing an audience, and sharing insights in ways that books alone can’t. Podcasts give authors like you a chance to build lasting relationships with your audience while showcasing your expertise in a personal and engaging way.
A well-prepared podcast interview can be a game-changer for authors. By researching your opportunities, refining your message, and executing a polished performance, you can make the most of every interview. Podcasts provide lasting exposure and credibility, making them a valuable part of your book marketing strategy.
Whether you’re stepping into your first interview or working to perfect your podcast presence, always focus on authentic connection, storytelling, and delivering value. With the right mindset, preparation, and approach, your interview will become a tool that keeps expanding your audience and impact long after the recording ends.Head to https://www.authorsonmission.com/call to schedule your strategic consultation with our team and learn how to amplify your book’s reach through podcast appearances.
