You know that pitch you *almost* sent? Or that big guest or sponsor you’re telling yourself you’ll reach out to “once you’re ready”? That idea you keep researching but haven’t acted on yet? This episode is about that moment—when you're stuck between wanting more for your podcast and actually going after it.

HuffPost contributor and media expert Alice Draper has helped clients land guest spots on 500+ podcasts, including WorkLife with Adam Grant and UnF*ck Your Brain. She joins me to unpack the psychology behind rejection, why your brain sees “no” as a survival threat, and how this fear keeps you from the visibility, credibility, and growth you deserve.

So if you’re tired of watching other people land the guests, sponsors, and traction you want—and you're ready to start pitching bigger names and getting your show into the rooms it deserves to be in (even if it scares you a little)—hit play and let’s dive in.

1:36 – The Real Fear Behind “My Show Isn’t Big Enough Yet”

6:15 – How Visibility Triggers Imposter Syndrome (and What to Do About It)

9:09 – “They’ll Probably Say No Anyway”—And Other Lies We Tell Ourselves

15:46 – Why You Don’t Need More Downloads to Pitch Big Guests or Sponsors

17:58 – The One Thing You’re Not Doing That Could Actually Grow Your Show

 Episode Links:

• Steal Alice’s pitch templates—the same ones that have helped her clients land interviews on 500+ top shows like WorkLife with Adam Grant.
• Check Out Alice Draper’s Podcast: My Rejection Story
• Learn More from Alice: hustlingwriters.com

 Other Episodes You’ll Enjoy:

• How to Train for Rejection and Use It to Grow Your Podcast Faster 

 
 →This episode was recorded on the Deity VO-7U

Support the show

Liked this episode? Share it with a fellow podcaster!

Love this show? Say thanks by leaving a positive review.

Want a podcasting growth strategy tailored to your show? Schedule a 1:1 Podcasting Audit with Courtney.

Register for Courtney's Podcasting Workshop: How to 10x Your Podcast Growth This Year

Curious about PodLaunch®? Email us at [email protected] to find out if our podcasting mentorship is the right fit and get tailored podcasting advice to grow your show.

Connect with Courtney: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunch HQ


©Ⓟ 2018–2025 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.