Here’s how to write a pitch to be a guest. You did read/listen/watch their story/podcast/show, right? Right. Then, go ahead and write your pitch.

Pitch yourself

• Start the pitch with a greeting, preferably addressed to a specific person. (This will most likely be the podcast host whose email you’ve identified). Then, provide a brief bio of yourself. And I mean brief. Keep it to three sentences or under. You want to tell them who you are, what podcast you host, and why you would be an excellent fit for their story/podcast/show. You can include things like how many listeners you have, any other story/podcast/shows you’ve recently appeared on, or where your expertise comes from.

Mention their show/publication

• Demonstrate that you did read/listen/watch their story/podcast/show by referencing a recent episode. Without getting into the weeds, try to make this more than a superficial comment that could have been gleaned by reading the episode title. You want to demonstrate you’ve read/listened/watched. This, too, should be very brief. It’s just to show that you respect their time and work.

Pitch your idea

• Now, we get to the meat of the email. This is where you can–and should–go more in-depth. Remember, you want to make it easy for the person reading your pitch to say yes. Don’t make them chase up further details–give them everything they need to know immediately. Start with the general topic you stated in the email subject line. Detail what it is you’ll bring to this topic. Then, outline the points you would cover throughout the episode. You want to prove there’s enough material on this topic to sustain an hour-long episode (or however long the story/podcast/show you’re pitching to runs). Don’t be vague here. Don’t be worried someone’s going to “steal” your idea. You must get used to putting your cards out there if you want a positive response. Besides, the idea is only the starting point. What you’re selling is you and your unique point of view on the subject.

So, with that in mind, be sure to answer these questions throughout the pitch:

Creating and participating in podcasts can be an excellent marketing strategy for therapists and psychiatrists to showcase their expertise, build their brand, and ultimately attract new clients. Here is a guide to help therapists and psychiatrists become engaging and effective podcast guests:

Questions to Ask Before Agreeing to Be on a Podcast

For therapists and psychiatrists considering being guests on a podcast, it’s crucial to ensure that the opportunity aligns with your professional goals, ethics, and audience. Here are key questions to consider asking the Podcast host before agreeing to participate:

1. What is the Podcast’s target audience?

• Understand who listens to the Podcast to tailor your message appropriately. Knowing whether the audience is the general public, mental health professionals, or individuals struggling with specific issues can help you prepare relevant content.

2. What are the main topics covered in the Podcast?

• Knowing the main topics beforehand will help you assess if your expertise aligns with the themes of the Podcast and if you can contribute valuable insights to their discussions.

3. What format does the Podcast follow?

• Inquire whether the Podcast is interview-based, panel discussions, or solo talks. Knowing the format can help you prepare mentally and structurally for your participation.

4. How long are the episodes?

• Understanding the duration will help you gauge how in-depth the conversations go and how much content you must prepare.

5. What specific topics would you like me to discuss?

• Ask for a list of topics or questions the host plans to cover. Knowing the topics or questions in advance allows you to prepare thoughtful responses and ensure that the content aligns with your areas of expertise and ethical boundaries.

6. Who is your typical listener, and what do they care about?

• This question goes deeper into understanding the audience’s needs and interests, allowing you to tailor your messages more effectively.

7. What is your perspective on mental health and therapy?

• Knowing the host’s Perspective on mental health is important to ensure that their views align with your professional standards and ethics.

8. Will I have the opportunity to review the episode before it’s published?

• Knowing if you can listen to the episode before it goes live can allow you to request edits if something was inaccurately represented.

9. How do you promote your episodes, and how can I assist in promotion?

• This question helps you understand the Podcast’s reach and how you can leverage the episode to benefit your practice.

Asking these questions ensures that the Podcast is a good fit for you and demonstrates your professionalism and commitment to providing value to the audience. Being proactive in your approach can lead to a more successful and rewarding podcast guest experience.

How to be a Good Podcast Guest

1. Understand the Podcast Audience

• Research the Podcast: Before appearing on a podcast, listen to several episodes to understand the host’s style, the type of content they cover, and the audience they cater to. This research will help you tailor your messages and examples to resonate with the listeners.
• Know Your Audience: Understand that the Podcast’s audience may range from individuals seeking general mental health advice to professionals looking for advanced insights. Adjust your communication style accordingly.

2. Prepare Your Key Messages

• Highlight Your Expertise: Prepare three to five key messages or topics you are passionate about that highlight your expertise. For example, this could include your approach to therapy, common misconceptions about mental health, or tips for managing anxiety or depression.
• Use Relatable Examples: Prepare anecdotes or client-free stories (while maintaining confidentiality) to illustrate your points. Real-life examples can make complex psychological concepts more accessible.

3. Communicate Clearly and Concisely

• Avoid Jargon: While it’s important to showcase your knowledge, avoid using too much technical language that may alienate listeners. Aim to explain concepts in layperson’s terms.
• Practice Active Listening: Engage with the host by listening actively and responding to their questions thoughtfully. Active listening creates a more dynamic and engaging conversation for listeners.

4. Offer Practical Advice

• Provide Value: Listeners often tune into mental health podcasts looking for advice they can apply to their own lives. Offer practical tips, strategies, or exercises they can try.
• Encourage Action: If appropriate, encourage listeners to seek professional help for their mental health issues, emphasizing the importance of personalized care.

5. Promote Your Practice

• Introduce Your Practice: Briefly mention your practice, your specialty, and the types of clients you work with. Mentioning this information shouldn’t be a sales pitch but a way to inform listeners about your professional background.
• Share Contact Information: With the host’s permission, share your practice’s website, social media handles, or other contact information at the end of the Podcast.

6. Leverage the Podcast Episode

• Promote the Episode: Share the podcast episode on your professional website, social media, and newsletters. Promoting the episode helps boost the Podcast and showcases your expertise to your existing and potential clients.
• Engage with Listeners: If the episode receives comments or questions on social media, engage with the audience by answering questions or thanking them for feedback. Engaging with listeners can further enhance your visibility and approachability.

7. Measure the Impact

• Track Referrals: Monitor any increase in inquiries or clients that mention the Podcast. Tracking referrals can help you gauge the effectiveness of your podcast appearances and guide future marketing efforts.

Benefits of Being a Podcast Guest

• Establish Authority: Sharing your knowledge on podcasts can establish you as an authority in your field, building trust with potential clients.
• Reach a Wider Audience: Podcasts can have a broad and diverse audience, allowing you to reach potential clients outside your immediate geographic area.
• Cost-Effective Marketing: Appearing as a podcast guest is often free, making it a cost-effective way to market your practice and reach potential clients.
• Networking Opportunities: Collaborating with podcast hosts and other guests can lead to professional networking opportunities and potential referrals.

Being a podcast guest offers therapists and psychiatrists a unique opportunity to share their expertise, connect with a broader audience, and attract new clients. By preparing effectively, communicating clearly, and leveraging the experience, mental health professionals can make the most of their podcast appearances.