How do you find guests for your startup podcast?

I'm 85 episodes into our founder podcast and what I've learned is to focus on an audience/persona rather than defining a niche. It takes quite a lot of content to build a large audience. And if you go too niche, you run the risk of running out of engaging material. So we prefer to focus on a persona, which allows us to cast a much wider net that keeps the storytelling both relevant and refreshing. Then you can start playing with other formats to mix things up.

When booking guests for your startup podcast, make sure to align choices with your business goals. If the aim is to attract potential customers, prioritize guests who resonate with your target audience. For instance, if your startup is in tech, inviting industry influencers or thought leaders can draw tech-savvy listeners. Consider guests with a substantial following, as they can bring their audience to your podcast, increasing exposure. Also, look for guests who can provide valuable insights or stories relevant to your product or service.

Start by clearly defining your podcast's niche and target audience. Understand the specific themes, topics, or industries your podcast covers and identify the audience you aim to engage. For instance, if your podcast revolves around technology startups, determining the key focus areas, such as SaaS startups, will guide your search for relevant guests.

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Once you have a list of potential guests, conduct thorough research on each individual. Explore their background, interests, accomplishments, and perspectives through social media, blogs, or previous podcast appearances. Identify any commonalities, shared interests, or mutual connections that can be leveraged to establish a connection. Understanding what makes each potential guest unique and the value they can bring to your audience is crucial.

Always create a personalized pitch when reaching out to potential guests through channels like email, LinkedIn, or Twitter. And be respectful and polite, addressing them by their name. Using their name is a life hack honestly. Clearly articulate why you find them interesting and express your desire to have them as a guest. You can also provide a concise overview of the benefits and expectations associated with being on your podcast. When suggesting a topic and interview date, be specific and flexible, taking into account their preferences.

?? Finding guests for your startup podcast is an art! ??? My recommendation: Prioritize meticulous preparation! ?? Research your guests thoroughly, understand their background, and identify key talking points. This groundwork not only impresses your guests but also ensures a more engaging and insightful conversation. ?? After all, a well-prepared host sets the stage for a captivating podcast episode! ?? #Podcasts #Startups #LEP #PreparationIsKey

Once you know your Target Audience, Meeting them personally is something which really works because an area of interest and value addition gets aligned and then create multiple touch points through social media, WhatsApp etc. When the time is right, invite them to your show, that's it.

Build a genuine connection with your guest. One of the most important things I noticed with my startup podcast (The Builder Circle) is that the more authentic the relationship I have with my guest the better the episode. It's really important to spend a lot of time off-camera not only strategizing the episode with your guest but also really getting to know them and their passions. People light up when talking about parts of the general topics they particularly care about or struggled with or currently thinking through. Although I try to make every episode as helpful to founders and hardware teams as possible, I also make sure to center it around my guest and ensure they are having a fun time talking about whatever we choose to focus on.

??? Connect with industry experts, attend relevant events, and engage in online communities to create meaningful connections. Personalized outreach and genuine interest go a long way. Remember, it's not just about the podcast, but the relationships you cultivate along the way that contribute to its success. ?? #Podcasting #Networking #StartupSuccess

There's a lot of sound advice in this article; however, podcast production is also a "learn by doing" experience. Despite defining my niche, audience, personalized pitch, and proactively networking, I was still learning as I created the first season. It wasn't until I completed it that I knew how to tackle season two more effectively. By going through the process, I now understand what worked and what didn't, and what guest persona worked best for my show. This has allowed me to refine my approach for the next season. In short, it's essential to think strategically at launch but don't be afraid to dive in and learn by doing. You'll gain invaluable experience and be far more prepared for guest booking after completing a few episodes.

?? When it comes to finding guests for your startup podcast, think beyond the obvious. Look for industry disruptors, unconventional thinkers, and those with a unique story to tell. Don't be afraid to dive into niche communities, leverage social media platforms, and attend virtual events. Engage with potential guests authentically and highlight the value they can bring to your audience. Remember, the best conversations often come from unexpected places. #Podcasting #StartupLife #Innovation #LEP #Strongertogether