The Pitch that Got Me on NPR

🎙️ NPR turned this pitch into an hour-long segment

Welcome to the sixth issue of Behind the Pitch, where I take you through my pitching process—from concept to publishing—so you can learn how to pitch, too.

May’s column took you behind the scenes of Zach Braff’s team pitching me about the release of his 2023 film A Good Person, and how I counter-pitched, ultimately getting Zach on my podcast.

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This month you’ll see the actual pitch I sent to NPR that turned into a full hour episode during Dry January.

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Pitching a Big Outlet

Let’s acknowledge that pitching is freaking hard. It’s exhausting. It’s emotional. It’s hella confusing. Pitching someone like NPR felt nearly impossible, but I committed to taking big swings this year.

Timing is also essential with pitching. I emailed NPR in early December, knowing that Dry January was around the corner. As you’ll see below, NPR replied to (and accepted!) my pitch within minutes.

The Screenshots

Below you’ll find:

• The annotated pitch I sent to NPR, which turned into this hour-long segment.

• Tips on how to follow up with someone you just met, then turn that follow-up into a winning pitch.

• The earnest thank-you note I sent to the producer after the episode aired.