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 Ourselves15:46 – Why You Don’t Need More Downloads to Pitch Big Guests or Sponsors17:58 – 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 StoryLearn 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-7USupport the showLiked this episode? Share it with your podcasting friends! Love this show? Say thanks in true podcasting style by leaving a review. Take the Podcast Health Score™ to see exactly where your show is losing listeners and get a custom plan that shows you what to fix first. Join the On-Air Coaching waitlist for a chance to get coached on air by Courtney and get your podcast questions answered in real time. Get the Podcast SEO Mastery Course and learn how to optimize your show so the right listeners can actually find it. Apply for the PodLaunch® Accelerator and get deeper podcasting support and expert guidance tailored to your specific podcasting goals. Email us at hello@podlaunchhq.com to learn more. Follow Courtney for more podcasting insights: Linked In | Instagram | PodLaunchHQ.com ©Ⓟ 2018–2026 by Courtney Elmer. All Rights Reserved.