How To Pitch Like A Pro And Avoid Pitfalls For Podcasts
Posted on Oct. 21, 2021 / Subscribe 0
Local podcasters joined PRSA Detroit to discuss all things podcasts. Recently we hosted a great group of panelists who provided a high-level overview of the dos and don’ts of pitching for podcasts. Check out the Q&A below.
Panelists:
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Donna Givens Davidson, president and CEO of Eastside Community Network
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James Potter, founder of Rephonic
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Jeremiah Staes, co-host/founder of Daily Detroit
Q: How Much Of It Is Scripted And Planned And How Much Is Organic And Authentic?
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Jeremiah – Jeremiah explained that scripting and planning depended on the topic/episode. His team will ask guests if there are certain things they want to talk about. There is preparation for the podcasts, and free flowing conversations. However, podcast episodes are always edited and tightened.
Q: What Should PR Practitioners Avoid When Pitching A Podcast?
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Jeremiah – Avoid a “spray and pray” approach, aka pitching several podcasts with the same subject matter expert/topic idea. It’s important to individualize your pitch to each podcast based on the podcasts’ core audience, topics they like to discuss, etc. Personalization matters!
Q: When You Were Talking About Recommendations, Finding Contact Info, Would You Say Is It Preferred To Reach Through Email, Or Do You Think Podcasters Are More Inclined Through Social Media?
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James – Many people choose to reach out to podcasters via email. Maybe for historical reasons, we’re in the mindset that PR practitioners tend to pitch more traditional by email, but depending on how big or formal the show is, social media could be the way to go and to stand out. Be open to trying different channels.
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Jeremiah – Jeremiah shared that he prefers email over a phone call. If he is familiar/has a personal connection with someone, texting can work as well. Social media outreach can work too, however it’s important to stay personalized to the person/podcast.
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Donna – When you pitch, explain why you think you’re a good fit so the podcaster knows you’ve done your research.
Q: What Do You Think The Future Of Podcasting Look Like?
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Jeremiah – The future of podcasts looks great. It is a form of journalism and community connection. Not many people read like they used to, and if you want to go in depth about a topic, you’ll want to avoid communicating through emails because people will scan. If you want more of a connection (with your audience), you’ll have to talk about it in a podcast.
Many thanks to our panelists and everyone who could join us! Stay tuned for future events this fall!
Bianca Kashat is the communications coordinator at the UAW Retiree Medical Benefits Trust and is a member of PRSA Detroit/ blog committee chair.
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