July 30, 2025
One of the best ways to promote your book is through book author podcasts. With podcasts on every conceivable subject now available, you can find the right place to appear as an author or as an expert. Book author podcasts are particularly open to nonfiction book authors, even first-time writers. They can be an important part of your book marketing strategy. Here are some tips to get you started.
Before you begin contacting podcast bookers, decide what sets you apart as an author. Ask yourself:
If you can answer these questions honestly, you can convince podcasters or their bookers to sign you up for an interview on book author podcasts.
As we mentioned, book author podcasts tend to be more receptive to nonfiction writers because they’re looking for experts to interview on specific subjects. As a published author, you have proven you have in-depth knowledge of the topic the show covers. When you pitch an interview, lean on your expertise and authority. If a show recently interviewed another author on the same subject, explain how your viewpoint sheds new light on the subject.
You can find shows that specialize in talking to first-time fiction authors. Like all creators, they’re always looking for relevant content. They know their listeners want to be entertained and informed.
The competition for fiction book author podcasts is fierce. It is difficult to set yourself apart as a fiction writer. How are you different from the many other writers in your genre, and why should a podcaster book you for a show?
With fiction, focus on podcasters who might be interested in you for other reasons. For instance, you may have better luck approaching a podcaster who focuses on interesting people from your state or region. Consider looking for a podcast that focuses on a particular hobby or career. You might have an easier time getting booked on that type of show because of your link to that state, region, hobby, or industry.
If you want to be a guest on book author podcasts, you must polish your voice and speaking skills. Practice recording yourself making short videos or voice recordings. Get familiar with the setup of remote interviewing. Will you do the interview online, or will you need a microphone?
Consider taking a class or joining a group that practices public speaking. Podcast show hosts expect their interview subjects to be fluent, polished speakers. Remember, the audience can’t see you. They only have your vocal presence to go on when judging your book—and you.
This brings us to the next point. Which book author podcasts should you approach with a booking request? Before you can do that, you need to know which shows cover the topic of your book.
There are thousands of podcasts out there. You may listen to several. If you’re not familiar with the world of podcasting, it’s time to start listening. Podcasts cover every conceivable subject, hobby, industry, or interest. Podcasters talk about politics, local news, conspiracy theories, and fitness regimes.
Some of the most well-known podcasts focus on true crime. Other top shows cover ways to build and grow a business. There are historical podcasts and shows that talk about alternative religions. Some shows discuss the cuisine and culture of a country, state, or U.S. region.
The number one podcast in the world is the Joe Rogan Experience, which gets millions of daily listeners. Rogan’s podcast stands out because he allows guests to talk for extended lengths of time rather than limiting the interview to the 45 minutes most shows employ. He also has an enormous range of guests who cover a variety of topics.
Rogan was famous before launching his show. He had a well-established brand and connections in the entertainment industry. Some podcasters, however, have achieved wide listenership by jumping on a hot trend. Shows that cover fitness, weight loss, and politics are hugely popular. True crime has emerged as one of the top reasons people listen to podcasters who cover crime, criminals, and noteworthy trials.
There’s little chance a first-timer can get on a show with millions of listeners. It isn’t necessary, anyway. There are hundreds of smaller shows whose creators are looking for useful content.
Aside from Rogan, the top shows in 2025 are:
According to Spotify, the top 10 topics for all shows are:
If you’re not listening to any shows, it’s time to start. You probably have a podcasting app on your phone or computer. To get started, sign up for the app and search for a keyword. Once you start listening to one podcast, the app will suggest others that might interest you.
The most popular podcasting platforms are:
Once you start listening, you’ll get a sense of what the shows are looking for in their guests. In most cases, the shows are brief. They generally clock in at 30 minutes or less. Some shows are longer, and the guests provide in-depth interviews and explorations, but few go over an hour. Podcasters know their listeners are generally running errands, exercising, or commuting to work while they’re listening, so they tend to keep it short.
Now it’s time to create a targeted list of shows. If your podcast search is successful, you’ll find the right shows. You’ll also have an understanding of how your book will appeal to listeners.
Be sure you’re comfortable with the show’s format. Is it formal and professional, or is it free flowing? Does the host challenge the guests or allow them to speak without calling them out? Listen to the approach the show host takes and the overall tone.
To increase your chances of getting on a show, start by building a connection with the host and listeners. Follow the podcaster on social media. If you’re watching the show on YouTube or Rumble, be sure to comment on the episode you’re watching. Comments, likes, and other engagement help the shows grow, and the host will appreciate that. Comment regularly until fellow listeners—and the host—get familiar with your name. Don’t use this time to pitch yourself. Stick to commenting and supporting the show.
Does the host have a Facebook page or Twitter account? Follow them there. Join their online communities. On some shows, this may require a small subscription fee or a one-time donation. Continue to engage without pushing your book. Build authentic engagement first.
Before you begin approaching book author podcasts, prepare a media kit. You’ll also need some review copies of your book to send to the bookers and podcast host. Your media kit should have:
Email the booking agent or the podcast host with a suggestion that you appear on the show to talk about your book. Include the media kit. Have copies of your book on hand to send to bookers or podcast hosts who might want to read it before your interview.
Getting on a podcast will boost your visibility, enhance your brand, and help you sell more books. Find the right show for your book. Focus on smaller creators who are receptive to a new writer. Podcast interviews can be a powerful part of your marketing strategy.
We hope you found this content useful. At Publishing Xpress, we support first-time authors and others who want to look good in print.
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