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Podcast & Events Series Guest Pitches + Marketing/Editorial Packages
Our podcast and summit events operate primarily by invitation, but we welcome pitches from agents, publicists, and publisher representatives. We offer a mix of paid* and unpaid media opportunities, as well as customizable marketing packages that can feature editorial content tailored to titles, creatives, and companies.
Representatives are encouraged to send pitches to directors [at] thestorytellersshelfpodcast [dot] com. We will provide our media kit and outline available offerings for guests or marketing* and editorial* advertising.
Important: Even if a guest is pitched by an agency or representative, we first evaluate whether they are a good fit for our program before extending an invitation. Inclusion is never automatic.
If you’ve been referred by a past guest, we encourage you to contact us via email titled “Referral from [Name].” Please include your background so we can explore whether your story suits our programming.
Award Submissions
For award-related inquiries, including nominations and eligibility, please visit our Awards Landing Page.
2026 Big Bang Guidelines (Submissions Open)
The Big Bang Notable Book List:
Expanding the universe of young minds, one read at a time.
Our Big Bang Notable Book List is a gift guide that publishes in November and features a curated list of standout board books, picture books, early readers, graphic novels, middle grade, and young adult titles that we personally read, enjoyed, and recommend.
Please Note:
- Inclusion is not guaranteed, even for past or upcoming podcast guests.
- You do not need to be a guest to be considered for the guide.
- You may submit more than one book.
To submit your book for consideration:
- Ensure your book fits our age parameters: 0-17 years old. Your book must be officially published within that age bracket. We cannot consider adult books with “young adult” appeal.
- Your book should have been published/should be set to publish between January 2025-March 2027.
- Your book can be self- or traditionally published.
- We strongly prefer two physical copies of the book for review. We are unable to reimburse you for postage; we recommend you use USPS media mail for a low cost shipment.
- Submissions must be received by August 5, 2026. Exceptions can be made for delays in shipments and Fall/Winter season books with ARCs due late. See our form below for more information.
All winners will have the freedom to backlink the list. All winners will have the option to purchase rights to use the digital seal and printed stickers for application on physical titles.
Note: Physical copies of books may be kept, used in a giveaway, or donated in our annual book drive to: literacy nonprofits, children’s hospitals, Tier 1 schools, free little libraries, and/or local families in need.
Career Opportunities
Applications for volunteers are now closed. We had over 75 incredible applicants for publicity, marketing, and blog opportunities! Thank you! Please subscribe to see when the next vacancies are open. Meet our past and present volunteers!
Though we are not currently advertising open roles, we are open to rolling pitches. If you’re interested in blogging for us, volunteering with us, or masterminding your own position, please send us an email with the title “Volunteer Pitch” plus your self-pitch and resume. We are committed to remaining open-minded because, as a platform dedicated to equity and empowerment, we want to create opportunities where growth mindset can be nurtured in this competitive industry.