Being a successful author goes beyond just the ability to write a book. It is important that you can share your message to as many people as possible. One of the great ways to be heard by people who may not know you yet is through podcasting. Now if you haven’t heard of podcasting, don’t worry. We will get you up to speed quickly!
What is Podcasting?
Podcasting is a way for people to create digital recordings of teachings, interviews, comedy routines, speeches, sermons…you name it; and make it available for downloading to a computer or other mobile device. Podcasts are similar to a radio show, but people listen to it through their computer or smartphone…not the radio.
Statistics show that there are over 700,000 podcasts available with over 29 million episodes! That is A LOT of information out there…BUT what if you were part of that bulk of content? With over 51% of the US population having listened to a podcast, that is close to 169 million people tuning into this newer method of information delivery. 22% of Americans, almost 73 million people, listen to a podcast at least once a week. So as an author and expert in your field, imagine the number of people you can reach by doing various different interviews. {MIND BLOW!!}
How Do I Get Involved in the Podcast Industry
1. Start Listening to Podcasts that Interest You
One of the best ways to get started is to gain first-hand knowledge and experience of podcasts and how people are using them. Start by setting up a podcast app on your phone. In those apps, you can search for podcasts by topic, host name, or podcast name.You can “Subscribe” to the podcasts that interest you and you will be notified when new episodes are available.
You might be saying, ‘But I don’t have time to do ONE.MORE.THING!!!” The reality is, most podcasts are usually about 10-30 minutes – some are a full hour. You can play them on the go, such as while you are in the car, working out, waiting for the kids, on a break, or running errands.
2. Reach Out to Podcast Hosts to Become a Guest
The one thing about running a podcast is that you have to have content. Being an expert in your field, you can truly be the answer to the prayers of many podcast hosts…by giving them good content! As you are searching out and seeking podcasts in your field, take note if the podcaster includes interviews or book reviews on their show. If you see that they are offering either one of these opportunities, it would be a great lead for you as an author. Being interviewed on their show will be a way for you to share your information and your book with people who are interested in your topic.
Before you get scared about the logistics, many of these podcast interviews are done over the phone – so no travel expenses, trips to the beauty salon, or new outfits are necessary!
When you find a podcast that is a good fit, it’s time to reach out. Make sure to listen to a couple of their episodes so you can be genuine in talking with them about being on their show. Comment on one of their episodes…so they realize that you actually took the time to listen! Now it is time to send an e-mail or make a phone call. In sending an e-mail, use a catchy subject line. Add a short note, your press release, a PDF proof copy of your book, and a call to action. Don’t be afraid to ask for the interview or the book review.
Listen to Author Interviews
The authors from our God Met Me Here book had the opportunity to be interviewed on the Unresolved Life podcast by Teresa Blaes. Listen in!
3. Start Your Own Podcast
Starting your own podcast could be a GREAT way to get the word out about your business or ministry. It will also help to establish yourself as an expert in your field. This is a bigger commitment in that you need to consistently schedule, research, record, and post the episodes; however podcasting is a great way to gain followers. If this is something that has crossed your mind, but you’re not quite sure where to start, I would like to introduce you to Kadosh Media. They are a podcast hosting and production company that can help you learn more and get your podcast set-up. When you reach out, let Michael and Teresa know that you found them through Kingdom Publishing!
Connecting to Get The Word Out
It can be challenging at times to market your book. The voices of doubt can start to whisper, “your message isn’t that important” or “pipe down, people are sick of hearing from you” or even “don’t even bother contacting that person, they are in a COMPLETELY different league and you really have NO chance!” Remember, if you have a God-given message, He will open up the doors for you to share it. You need to walk through them, knowing someone is out there that needs to hear what you have to say.
It is time to be bold and brave and seek out the places where your readers are. Many are on the listening end of a podcast, waiting to hear the message you have to share!
