How to Pitch Your Podcast for “Best of the Year” Lists

Every December, major media outlets, niche publications, and influential blogs publish their “Best Podcasts of the Year” lists. For the shows that make the cut, the benefits are immediate: a surge in downloads, new loyal listeners, and industry credibility that can’t be bought.

But most podcasters treat these lists like a lottery, sending a few hurried emails in November and hoping for the best. The reality? Editors and curators start scouting months in advance, and they are looking for a well thought out pitch.

Why “Best of the Year” Lists Matter

When someone is browsing a Best Podcasts of 2025 article from Apple, Spotify, The New York Times, or Podnews, they’re actively in discovery mode. Unlike passive advertising, these lists put you in front of highly engaged audiences who are primed to try something new.

A single placement can deliver:

• Credibility – The “stamp of approval” from a respected brand.
• SEO value – These articles rank for years, continuing to drive traffic.
• Network growth – Fellow creators, guests, and brands take you more seriously.
• Listener spikes – Exposure to thousands (or millions) of targeted potential listeners.

Step 1: Understand How “Best of the Year” Lists Work

Before you pitch, know what you’re pitching into.

• Timing matters: “Best of the Year” lists typically go live in November or early December, but many curators start shortlisting as early as September. Pitch too late and you’ll miss the cut.
  • Timeline to follow:
    • Q1–Q3 – Release your strongest episodes and compile reviews/press mentions.
    • September–October – Begin outreach, highlighting why your show deserves consideration.
    • Late November–December – Follow up with a short reminder if you haven’t heard back.
• Curation criteria: Beyond popularity, curators look for originality, execution, cultural relevance, and production quality.
• Variety of lists: There are “Best Overall” lists from outlets like The New York Times, genre-specific lists from niche sites, and community-driven lists on Reddit, Twitter, or Substack.

Action: Build a target list of 20–30 outlets, blogs, and influencers that release year-end podcast roundups relevant to your category.

Step 2: Make Sure Your Show is Worth Pitching

Not every season or episode will be list-worthy. Step back and evaluate:

• Episode quality: Is your audio production clean? Are your episodes tightly edited?
• Brand consistency: Does your artwork, show description, and social presence reflect a professional brand?
• Positioning: What makes your show stand out this year: a groundbreaking interview, unique reporting, or innovative format?

If your answer to “Why this year?” isn’t crystal clear, your pitch won’t land. This is where a production partner like Hivecast can be invaluable. We help podcasters elevate every element of their show (from audio engineering and episode editing to brand polish and promotional assets), so when the time comes to pitch, your show not only meets professional standards but exceeds them.

Step 3: Craft a Compelling Pitch

Your pitch needs to balance professionalism with personality. Editors don’t have time for long-winded introductions. They need to know what your show is, why it’s exceptional, and why their readers will care.

Include:

1. Concise show summary – One sentence that clearly explains the premise.
2. What makes it different – Unique hook, storytelling approach, or expertise.
3. Proof of audience impact – Listener growth, notable guests, awards, press mentions.
4. Your strongest episode(s) – Direct links with short, enticing descriptions.
5. Why now – Tie it to a theme, trend, or cultural moment relevant to their audience.

Step 4: Package Your Assets Like a Pro

The easier you make it for someone to feature you, the better your chances. Create a one-page press kit or media folder that includes:

• High-res show artwork (minimum 3000×3000 px).
• Host headshots and bios.
• Short and long show descriptions.
• Notable guests and topics covered.
• Links to your podcast on major platforms.

Tip: Include a Google Drive or Dropbox folder link, no huge attachments that clog inboxes.

Step 5: Leverage Relationships & Visibility

If you’ve collaborated with journalists, other podcasters, or industry partners, let them know you’re pitching. Warm recommendations can help you leapfrog hundreds of submissions.

Also, share your show’s milestones publicly (LinkedIn, X/Twitter, Threads). Curators often scan social media for trends when compiling lists.

Step 6: Follow Up (Without Being Annoying)

If you haven’t heard back within 2–3 weeks, send a polite, short follow-up:

• Reference your original email.
• Share any new milestones or recent press.
• Keep it to three sentences max.

Bottom Line

Getting on a “Best of the Year” list isn’t about shouting the loudest. It’s about knowing the right doors to knock on, and making it effortless for them to open.

A strategic, well-timed pitch can put your podcast in front of an audience you couldn’t reach otherwise, while giving you long-term SEO and credibility benefits that ads simply can’t match.

Ready to make your podcast stand out year-round? HiveCast handles podcast production and positioning so shows get noticed, by listeners and by curators. From episode strategy to PR-worthy assets, we’ll make sure your podcast looks and sounds like a “Best of the Year” contender. Book a free HiveCast strategy call and start getting the recognition your show deserves.