Guest Feature: Candace Dudley
This blog post is part of Navia’s Guest Series where we spotlight brilliant minds doing meaningful work across the marketing world. Today’s post is written by Candace Dudley, a podcast guesting coach who helps business owners stop spinning their wheels and start landing in front of the right audiences. She’s sharing her insights with the Navia community!
If you’ve been in business for a bit, you’ve probably reached that point where your work feels right. You’re not questioning your offer every other week. You know your people, what they need, and how you help them.
You’re showing up consistently. You’ve refined your message, maybe even updated your brand or your website. And deep down, you know — this is it. You finally feel embodied in your work.
That’s the exact moment most entrepreneurs start thinking about visibility.
Maybe you’re craving more eyes on your business. You know if the right people heard you speak, something would click. They’d get it. You’re ready for more reach… but the idea of dancing on Reels or figuring out another TikTok trend makes your soul shrink.
That’s where podcast guesting comes in.
So, how do you know it’s time to start guesting on podcasts?
Here are a few signs:
1. You’re confident in your offer (and you actually love talking about it)
Podcast guesting works best when you’re grounded in what you do. You can clearly explain your offer, who it helps, and the transformation it creates.
If you’re still feeling unsure, or if your elevator pitch changes every time someone asks what you do — it might be a little early.
But when you can confidently share your story and what you do without overthinking it? You’re ready.
2. You feel embodied in your work
This one matters more than people realize. Podcast interviews are conversations — and your energy always comes through. When you’re aligned and confident in your mission, listeners feel that. It’s magnetic.
Guesting becomes less about proving yourself and more about connecting.
3. You find yourself saying, “I just wish more people could see this.”
If you’ve had those moments where you look at your content or results and think, If more people could just hear this, it would change their business or life… that’s a big sign you’re ready to get visible.
Podcast guesting gives you the chance to do that without shouting louder on social media.
4. You want visibility, but you don’t want to live online
Not everyone wants to be an influencer and that’s okay.
Maybe you’re tired of the constant algorithm chase. You don’t want to create seven different pieces of content a week.
Podcasts let you show up deeply and meaningfully. You share your story once, and that episode can live forever — building your authority and connecting you to new audiences long after it airs.
The First Steps to Start Booking Podcast Guest Spots
If you’re nodding along thinking, Okay, I’m ready, here’s how to get started:
- Clarify your signature message.
Think about the 2–3 topics you could talk about for days. These should align with your offers and speak to your audience’s biggest struggles or desires. - Start with aligned shows.
Don’t just aim for the biggest podcasts. Look for hosts whose audience mirrors your ideal clients — those smaller, niche shows can convert better and build real connections. - Pitch personally.
A short, warm DM goes a long way. Mention what you loved about their show, a topic idea that fits, and how it would bring value to their listeners. - Prep your talking points.
Know your key stories, client examples, and any calls to action (like your freebie or offer). You don’t need to script it, just know the beats you want to hit.
The Bottom Line
Podcast guesting isn’t just another visibility tactic, it’s a way to connect.
It’s about showing up in real conversations, sharing what you know, and being heard by audiences who are already paying attention.
If you’re feeling grounded in your work, confident in your offer, and ready to reach more people without adding another social media app to your plate this is your moment.
If you’re ready to take your next step, you can start with my free Guesting Masterclass, or explore my Podcast Tour package designed to help you get booked on the right shows, with the right message, so you can make the impact you know you’re meant to.
Because your message deserves to be heard and podcast guesting is one of the most powerful (and fun) ways to make that happen.
