HARO Is Back: What Podcasters Need to Know to Get Featured and Build Visibility Fast
If you’ve ever wanted to get featured in the media, this is your moment. Help a Reporter Out (HARO), the iconic source-matching service for journalists and experts, is officially relaunching on April 22nd and it’s better than ever.
In an era where AI-generated content is multiplying by the second, HARO brings back the power of the human voice. Whether you’re a podcaster, entrepreneur, business leader, or thought leader, HARO helps you get quoted, sourced, and published in trusted media outlets. That’s the kind of visibility that builds reputations, grows businesses, and makes your message matter.
This is more than just another tool. It’s a strategic visibility move that can help you scale credibility, media mentions, and SEO all at once. And the best part? It’s free.
by Vinnie Potestivo
Visibility Expert, CreatorHubPro.com
“AI-generated content is everywhere, and your voice matters more than ever.”
Brett Farmiloe,
Founder and CEO of Featured.com
What’s New With HARO?
According to Brett Farmiloe, Founder and CEO of Featured.com, HARO and its sister platform, Connectively, have been acquired with a clear mission: “to bring back everything that made [HARO] great.”
“You’ll start seeing HARO emails again starting April 22nd. And just like before, it will remain free for both journalists and sources, supported by relevant newsletter sponsors,” said Farmiloe.
This reboot is designed to give creators like us—those who publish content, share stories, and lead with experience—the opportunity to be seen, heard, and cited.
Why This Is Big for Podcasters and Creators
I’ll say this as a podcaster and someone who works with hundreds of creators, coaches, and brand builders: HARO is one of the most powerful visibility engines we’ve ever had. And now, it’s back in our corner.
“AI-generated content is everywhere, and your voice matters more than ever. HARO was built on the belief that everyone is an expert at something. We’re proud to revive that mission and help your insights power meaningful stories,” Farmiloe emphasized.
That means your podcast doesn’t have to exist in a bubble anymore. Your ideas can make their way into articles, editorials, and expert roundups all by showing up consistently in HARO.
Let me break down how HARO works and how you can make the most of it.
1. What Is HARO and How Does It Work?
HARO (Help a Reporter Out) is a free platform that connects journalists with expert sources. Every weekday, subscribers receive emails listing dozens of media opportunities—journalists seeking quotes, insights, case studies, and expert commentary.
These opportunities are segmented by topic: Business, Health, Tech, Entertainment, Lifestyle, and more. Each listing includes a short prompt, deadline, and instructions on how to respond.
Think of it like a media matchmaker. Instead of pitching cold, you’re responding to journalists who are already looking for someone like you.
2. Who Should Use HARO?
HARO is perfect for:
• Podcasters and hosts looking to boost discoverability
• Entrepreneurs launching new products or services
• Creators who want to build personal brands
• Authors and coaches building thought leadership
• Experts in niche industries ready to scale credibility
If you’ve ever thought, “I just need more people to know what I do,” this is the tool to make it happen.
3. Five Benefits of Using HARO to Build Visibility
1. Earn Free Publicity in Trusted Media Outlets
You can get quoted in top-tier outlets like Forbes, Business Insider, Fast Company, and The New York Times without hiring a publicist or spending a cent.
2. Improve SEO Through High-Authority Backlinks
Many HARO placements include a link back to your website or podcast, giving you a solid boost in search engine visibility.
3. Strengthen Your Podcast’s Authority
As a host or guest, being featured in articles raises your authority and can drive new listeners to your show.
4. Grow Your Personal Brand
Getting featured in media adds social proof to your personal and professional story. It tells the world: “I’m a trusted voice in this space.”
5. Build Relationships With Journalists
Media isn’t just about one-time placements. It’s about building relationships. HARO gives you access to the people who shape the narratives of your industry.
4. Three Ways to Maximize HARO for Media Coverage
1. Create a Ready-to-Go Media Kit
Prepare a short press bio (100-150 words), a professional headshot, and a few pre-written talking points or quotes. This makes it easy for a journalist to say “yes.”
2. Respond Quickly and Concisely
Journalists are on tight deadlines. When you see a relevant HARO query, respond quickly and make your message skimmable: lead with value, then add credibility.
3. Track and Amplify Your Wins
If you get quoted, celebrate it. Share the link on LinkedIn, your newsletter, Instagram, and on your podcast. Tag the publication and journalist if possible.
5. How to Start Using HARO Today
Step 1: Subscribe at www.helpareporter.com
You’ll start receiving emails again on April 22nd. Add HARO to your safe sender list so it doesn’t get lost in spam.
Step 2: Scan Emails Daily
Set aside 10 minutes in the morning or afternoon to skim through opportunities that align with your brand or expertise.
Step 3: Respond Strategically
Don’t try to reply to everything. Pick 1-3 relevant queries a week and craft thoughtful, personalized responses.
Step 4: Prepare for Follow-Up
Sometimes journalists will reply with further questions. Be ready to follow up promptly with answers, links, or additional insight.
Step 5: Monitor Press Mentions
Use Google Alerts or Mention to track when your name or brand appears in the media. Bookmark your features and link to them on your website.
My Take as a Visibility Expert
“HARO returning is a creative win for the media community. It levels the playing field and puts the power of visibility back into the hands of creators. It’s not just about getting quoted in the press, it’s about being discovered for your expertise and perspective,” said Vinnie Potestivo, Editor-in-Chief of I Have A Podcast and Founder of CreatorHubPro.com.
This is more than visibility. It’s legacy building. Every time you get cited, quoted, or linked, you’re writing a part of your professional story that Google—and the world—can see.
We need more human stories in the headlines.
HARO gives us the chance to be part of those stories.
Final Thoughts: Visibility Isn’t Something You Wait For
You don’t need a blue checkmark or millions of followers to make a media impact. You need clarity, consistency, and tools like HARO that match your message with the people looking to amplify it.
Whether you’re growing your podcast, building a brand, or leading a company, your voice matters. HARO is giving you the mic. Now all you have to do is speak up.
Get started at www.helpareporter.com and let your story be seen, shared, and remembered.
Stay visible, Vinnie
■ About the Author
Vinnie Potestivo is an Emmy Award-winning media brand advisor, personal brand strategist, and content coach. He is a well-trusted connector who creates, develops, produces, distributes, amplifies, and helps to monetize some of the most talked-about brands in modern pop culture.
As host of I Have A Podcast, his goal is to inspire your creative potential.
