How to Get on a Local Talk Radio Show

Your town probably has a locally produced talk radio show of some sort or another. Of course, there are fewer and fewer of these shows as the national talk show hosts take over all the available time slots, but there are still some local shows, especially on weekends.

The shows need guests to fill the time. They’re always looking for something interesting. Going on the show will increase your visibility and help you grow your practice.

How do you get on the show?

You call the host and mention your interest. Some shows have producers who line up the guests. Some hosts manage the guests themselves. The host will tell you who you need to call. Follow up with an e-mail. Keep in touch if the host doesn’t invite you on immediately.

What will you talk about?

Ideally, the host will take calls, and you can answer questions. That’s easy, and it keeps the show flowing.

If that’s not the format, there’s always something happening that relates to your practice. Look for recent news stories (there’s always a celebrity divorce I can discuss). Check out the appellate courts for recent decisions. Legislators are always proposing something controversial that you can discuss. Worst case, you can talk about interesting scenarios that somehow relate to sex (sex always sells).

Being a guest on the show is good exposure for your practice. It’s also good practice for those moments when the national media calls about breaking news. You’ll be more comfortable in the big leagues if you’ve been practicing in the minors.

Take a few minutes and track down your local shows. Spend some time this week tuning in to the shows and get a feel for the host and the format. Then place your call and see what happens. What have you got to lose? Nothing.

Make sure the show gets recorded, either by the station or by someone on your team. Send me a link to your segment, and I’ll post it here on the site. I can’t wait to hear you on the radio.

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