How to Find the Right Podcasts to Guest On (Without Wasting Hours Searching)

If you’ve ever sat at your desk, typed a keyword into Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and been met with hundreds of massive, big-production shows you know you’re not ready to pitch… this one’s for you.

Because the secret to landing more podcast guest spots isn’t just about writing a great pitch — it’s about finding the right podcasts to pitch to in the first place.

Why Finding the Right Podcasts Matters

Pitching shows that don’t align with your message or audience is a fast way to waste your time (and theirs).
When you focus on the right shows, you:

  • Connect with hosts who actually want to share your story

  • Build real relationships in your niche

  • Land interviews you’re excited to share with your audience

  • Avoid burning bridges with mismatched podcasts

Start With Your Niche Topics

Everything begins here. Clarify your top 3 niche speaking topics — the ones you’re excited to talk about and that resonate deeply with your ideal clients. These will guide every search and pitch you make.

Follow the Breadcrumb Trail

Here’s my favorite way to find aligned, independently produced shows:

  • Start with a podcast you already love or have guested on.

  • Scroll through their guest episodes.

  • Click on those guest names… many of them are podcast hosts too.

  • Jump over to their shows. Repeat.

You’ll uncover podcasts that are exactly in your space — not just the big network ones everyone else is pitching.

Let Shows Come to You

Visibility isn’t a one-way street. Share your niche speaking topics on Threads, your email list, and your social platforms regularly. When hosts see your clarity and consistency, they’ll start reaching out to you.

Track Everything

Keep it simple with my free Podcast Pitch Tracker. Log show names, host details, links, and notes so your outreach is intentional — not chaotic.

Bonus: Ask for Referrals

If you’ve already guested on a show, don’t be afraid to ask the host if they know other podcasters looking for guests. One good interview can open a lot of doors.

Bottom line: Stop spending hours searching for “top podcasts in [your niche].”
Start being strategic and building relationships that lead to aligned, easy yeses.

🎧 Listen to the full episode here: [link to episode]

Candace Dudley

Candace is a podcast manager, editor, and SEO strategist helping entrepreneurs amplify their voices. With over three years of experience and 170+ published episodes, she specializes in podcast production, podcast guesting, and content strategy. As a certified life and mindfulness coach, Candace blends efficiency with creativity to help solopreneurs grow their audience.

https://www.candacedudley.com
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