Get a 'Yes' from Your Podcast Guests: TWO Email Templates That Work!

When I started Pharmacist Diaries, reaching out to potential guests felt like stepping into the unknown. Would they say yes? What if they don’t have time? 159 episodes later, I can tell you that only two pharmacists have ever said no—and both were due to time constraints or the fear of being on camera.

So, what's the secret?

Here's my take.

Make the Ask (You Have Nothing to Lose)

Reaching out to people you don’t know can feel daunting. But here's the reality: you have nothing to lose. Worst-case scenario? They say no. Best-case? You land a fantastic guest and build a great connection. Shifting to this mindset removes the disappointment. Instead of thinking, "What if they don't respond?" focus on the possibility that they might.

Start with Your Network

In the early days of the podcast, I interviewed friends and colleagues. Why? It was easy. And honestly, it was fun. Sitting down with someone you already know takes away the pressure, and it allows you to ease into your role as a host naturally. These early episodes helped me build confidence and gave me the momentum to reach out to others.

Top Tips To Get You Started

When reaching out to potential guests, especially those you don’t know personally, it’s essential to have a solid plan and strategy. The key is to be professional, but also personable, ensuring you explain how their participation will benefit both of you. Here are some steps to get you started:

1. Research Your Guest: Know why they would be a great fit for your show. Mention something specific you admire about them, such as a recent project, a piece of content they created, or a talk they gave.
2. Highlight Value: Let them know why your podcast is the right platform for them. What’s in it for them? It might be exposure to your audience, a chance to share their expertise, or to discuss a passion project.
3. Be Clear and Concise: Keep the email short and to the point. Busy professionals don’t have time to read long messages, so ensure your email can be skimmed quickly.
4. Provide Context: Include information about your podcast, its reach, and the type of audience they would be engaging with.
5. Follow-Up: Don’t be discouraged if you don’t hear back. A polite follow-up email is often appreciated and can make a difference.

Sample Email Templates

1. Cold Outreach to a Thought Leader/Expert:

Subject: Invitation to Join [Podcast Name] as a Featured Guest

Hi [Guest’s Name],

I hope you’re doing well! My name is [Your Name], and I’m the host of [Podcast Name], a show focused on [brief description of your podcast's theme]. I’ve been following your work for a while, particularly [mention something specific, like an article they wrote, a talk they gave, or a project they led], and I believe you’d bring incredible value to my audience.

I’d love to invite you to be a guest on an upcoming episode of my podcast to discuss [specific topic you’d like to cover]. My listeners are passionate about [what your audience cares about], and I think they’d really benefit from hearing your perspective on [specific issue].

If you’re interested, I’d be happy to provide more details and discuss scheduling. We typically record [days/times] and aim for episodes around [time length].

Thank you for considering this opportunity—I look forward to hearing from you!

Best regards,

[Your Name]

[Your Podcast Name]

[Your Website/Podcast Link]

2. Outreach to Someone with a Niche Expertise:

Subject: Potential Guest Spot on [Podcast Name] to Discuss [Specific Niche Topic]

Hi [Guest’s Name],

I hope you’re well! I’m [Your Name], host of [Podcast Name], where I explore [general theme of the podcast]. I recently came across your work in [specific area of expertise], and I was particularly fascinated by [specific piece of work, article, or talk]. Your expertise on [niche topic] would make for an insightful and valuable conversation for my listeners.

My podcast focuses on helping [brief audience description], and I think an episode on [niche topic] would resonate deeply with them. Would you be open to discussing the possibility of joining me as a guest on an upcoming episode?

I usually record on [days/times], and I’d be happy to work around your schedule.

Looking forward to hearing from you!

Best regards,

[Your Name]

[Your Podcast Name]

[Your Website/Podcast Link]

Final Thoughts on Guest Outreach

While reaching out to potential guests might feel like a big hurdle, just remember that you’ve got nothing to lose—and everything to gain. Start with people in your circle, build your confidence, and before you know it, you’ll be booking high-profile guests with ease.

Looking forward to your thoughts on this one!

Love Anisha & Sunjay

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Anisha & Sunjay

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