Most authors want podcast interviews to sell books—and that’s exactly why so many pitches get ignored.In this first episode of a two-part series, we break down the simple shift that changes everything: pitch value first. Your book is the credential—it proves you belong—but it’s not the content. What matters is what the audience walks away with after they listen.We unpack what podcast hosts and producers are actually screening for, why vague or book-centered pitches fail, and how to avoid the “drinking from a fire hose” approach that overwhelms your marketing. You’ll learn how being a genuine listener gives you a built-in edge, and how to turn a broad book topic into a clear, compelling hook that makes a host say yes.We also walk through practical positioning:How nonfiction authors can lead with expertise, insight, and actionable ideasHow fiction authors can connect their stories to history, culture, research, or real-world conversationsWhy full-length, book-only interviews are rare—and what to pitch insteadThen we zoom out to the bigger picture. Podcast interviews aren’t about instant spikes—they’re about long-tail visibility, searchability, credibility, and reusable marketing assets you can leverage across your website, newsletter, and social platforms.We wrap with a listener question on using a trade paperback release as a true relaunch opportunity—so you can turn new formats, new pricing, and renewed attention into real momentum.If you’ve been pitching podcasts and hearing nothing back—or you’re about to start—this episode will recalibrate your entire approach.Subscribe, share with an author friend, and stay tuned for Part 2, where we break down how to find the right shows and pitch them effectively.Send us your feedback!Help shape our 2026 content by taking our 30-second listener poll!📱Text Penny & Amy: send us your show feedback, burning marketing questions and new topic ideas! Text the word PODCAST to (888) 402-8940 to sign up to send us messages and receive new episode announcements. And don't forget to save our number!Check out our Book Marketing Jumpstart options if you're ready to take your brand, platform and SEO up a few notches.Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts!Be sure you're following the show: by clicking the + Follow button on the top right of our show page. If you're already following you'll see a ↓ downward arrow.Locate Ratings & Reviews: Scroll down on our podcast page until you find the "Ratings & Reviews" section.Rate the podcast: Click on the stars to give the podcast a rating.Write your review: Under the star rating there will be the most recent review and just below that click "Write a Review" and compose your review in the text box that appears.Save: Once you've written your review, click "Save" to submit it. Can't use Apple Podcasts? Email us your review and we'll put it on our website: info@amarketingexpert....

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

Transcript

Related