While we all want to have high-profile guests on our podcast or video show, it is difficult to book these guests. That being said, we've pulled some pretty high-profile guests on our show over the last couple of years, so we'll share some of the steps we used.
Note: While this article primarily applies to podcasting, the methodology used here can be used for video/streaming guests, or even a guest blogger.
Basic Steps
- Find the guest you want to interview
- Prepare a professional email or message to said guest and send it to guest
- Be prepared to follow up
- Book the guest using some kind of reservation software
Simple, right? If your guest is fairly low profile chances are these steps will work or at least get you some kind of response. If your guest is on-air talent at ESPN or a professional athlete, then probably not.
The Details
Agent or Media Relations
In most cases, you will not be able to reach your high-profile guests directly. You may get lucky with a direct message (DM) or an email to their personal website, but these are generally very low success options. The website way is a little more successful, but on occasion, it will route the email to the agent or manager. Also, be prepared for delays due to the guest needing to get permission from their sports team or media relations department before they commit to an interview. The last thing ESPN wants is their highest-profile on-air talent going on a controversial podcast that will damage their reputation.
One thing to remember is that agents are there to protect their clients. Don't get frustrated if you don't hear back. We've emailed dozens of agents asking for interviews from their clients and have a very low success rate getting a response. There's a very good chance that the guest you want never saw the request.
Here are some more common media relations contacts:
- ESPN: espnpr@espn.com
- Fox Sport: NewsfromFOXSports@fox.com
Preparing a Professional Email/Message
Sending your request is a make or break. The key is to be professional, share your story, and if you have a special domain for your site use that email. You're less likely to get a response out of the "World Wide Leader" sending a request from your Gmail. Follow these steps to constructing an email:
- Use a tool like Grammarly to make sure you are sending a grammatically correct email
- Tell your story, but don't write a novel. You have a few seconds to hook the person before it goes into the trash box.
- List out a few topics you'd like to talk to your potential guest about
- Name drop any high-profile guests you've had on your show previously. Having a well known and well-respected member of the media or athlete world is a great way to build credibility when contacting an agent or media relations department
- ALWAYS close your message thanking them for taking the time to read your note and that you're looking forward to chatting with them further
As always, not a guarantee you'll book that guest, but it won't hurt your chances.
Booking The Guest & Booking Software
There are many great free options out there as long as you aren't booking more than 50-100 guests a month. If you use Zoom or Riverside, there are scheduling tools built in there.
After you agree on a date and time, it's customary to provide a rough outline of some of the topics you'd like to discuss. Of course, questions will come up, but providing an outline of topics to your guest shows that you're prepared and it gives them an opportunity to think about providing the best responses to your questions.
Things Not To Do
There are definitely a few things you absolutely shouldn't do or should avoid doing:
- Do not try to book a current athlete during a season. You'll have an almost 0% chance of being successful. Booking during their offseason is the best chance.
- Do not be obsessive, send a large number of emails, or appear desperate in your communications. That will send your request to the trash at light speed
- Do not be late for the interview ever. Your guest is taking time out of their day and it is incredibly unprofessional.
- Avoid discussing controversial topics or overblown topics. For example, we didn't bring up to Bernard Pollard the story of his tackle that resulted in Tom Brady's ACL because he's probably sick of talking about it. These guests have seen, covered, and been in the same room/field with some of the all-time greats. Even as a lower profile publication, reputation still matters. You don't want your podcast blacklisted from ESPN, Fox, the NFL, etc
Conclusion
As a small show, it is still possible to book high-profile guests. You'd be surprised how many former athletes and members of the press want to share their stories or share their knowledge of their game with people. Make sure you're following the above steps to increase your chances of booking them successfully and most importantly, don't get frustrated if you don't get a response or get a polite no.
Disclaimer: This article may feature affiliate links. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may get a small commission for the referral. Thank you again for supporting Stadium Scene!
