There’s a comforting rhythm to a good cup of coffee — just like there is in a great podcast conversation. Having recently been a guest on a few podcasts, I experienced first-hand how meaningful these moments can be — when shared intentionally.
Being a coffee podcast guest isn’t about promoting yourself. It’s about showing up with purpose, presence, and personality. Whether you’re a barista, founder, farmer, or enthusiast — here’s how to make your podcast presence as memorable as your favorite brew.
☕ 1. Know Your Brew — and Your Story
Just like every cup of coffee has a unique origin, so do you. Spend a little time grounding yourself in your journey — your “why,” your key moments, and what you’re passionate about sharing. A podcast isn’t a pitch; it’s a story. Let your coffee journey shine through your words.
Tips:
- Anchor in your ‘why’: Why do you do what you do in the coffee world? What brought you here?
- Prepare your story arc: Think in 3 parts — where you started, what you’re doing now, and where you’re headed.
- Practice briefly sharing key moments: Personal anecdotes, challenges, and turning points make your voice more relatable.
Remember: People connect to stories more than stats.
🎙️ 2. Listen Before You Speak
If possible, tune in to a few episodes of the podcast you’re joining. Get a feel for the host’s style, the flow of the conversation, and the kind of questions they ask. This helps you align your energy and avoid repeating what’s already been said.
Each podcast has its own flavor — from casual brews to deep espresso-style interviews.
Tips:
- Research the host and their tone: Are they laid-back? Curious? Business-focused?
- Listen to 1-2 recent episodes: Understand how long episodes typically are and how questions are framed.
- Note what works: Pay attention to how other guests make an impact or lose the audience’s attention.
🎯 This helps you show up with context, not just content.
💬 3. Keep It Real, Not Rehearsed
The best podcast moments happen when the guest is present, honest, and unpolished in the best way. Sure, have a few talking points in mind, but don’t over-script. Coffee conversations are meant to be sipped slowly — not served in a rush.
Tips:
- Avoid reading answers or memorizing lines.
- Pause and think — it’s okay: Silence creates space for better responses.
- Don’t try to “sound smart” — just be yourself. Share how you feel, not just what you know.
Think of it as a café chat, not a press interview.
✨ 4. Bring Value to the Table
Think about the listeners. What will they take away from your story? Whether it’s a behind-the-scenes of your brand, a brewing tip, or a cultural insight — share something that educates, inspires, or simply makes them smile.
Tips:
- Drop practical tips: Brewing hacks, sourcing insights, or things you’ve learned from mistakes.
- Share ideas, not just opinions: What has the coffee world taught you that others could benefit from?
- Highlight others: If someone inspired your journey, give them a shout-out. Audiences love guests who are generous with credit.
Make it less about you, more about what you bring.
📣 5. Promote Like You Mean It
Once your episode is live, share it generously. Tag the host, use visuals, quote a great line, or even share a blooper moment. You’re not just a guest — you’re a co-creator of that moment. Own it with joy.
Tips:
- Create engaging content around the episode: Share a quote, make a carousel, or do a behind-the-scenes reel.
- Tag the host and podcast page: Always give credit and make it easy for their audience to find you.
- Keep sharing weeks later: A good podcast episode has a long shelf life.
🎯 Be proud of your conversation — amplify it, don’t just archive it.
☕ In Closing…
Being a coffee podcast guest is a beautiful opportunity to blend your story with someone else’s platform — like sharing a table at your favorite coffee shop. You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be present.
So the next time you’re invited to speak on a podcast, take a moment. Reflect. Sip. And show up ready to brew a conversation that lingers — long after the episode ends.
Have you ever been a guest on a podcast? I’d love to hear what you learned. Drop your best tip or moment in the comments or share it with me!
