This podcast script template will help you plan and nail your next show. It lists the most important points to cover in the intro, body, and outro.
One of the most intimidating aspects of starting a podcast is writing the podcast script. After all, you’re probably getting into podcasting because you like to talk, not write, right? But as all seasoned podcasters know, producing a podcast without a script is a lot like starting a road trip without GPS. You may know where you want to go, but you don’t know exactly how to get there—which can get you into all kinds of trouble. That’s why in this post, we’ll show you what a podcast script is and why you should use one. Then, we’ll go over how to write a script, complete with examples and templates based on your unique style.
When you think of a podcast script, you might think of a play or movie script—where every word is planned out in advance. You might be hesitant to adopt a script for this reason; won’t scripting your podcast essentially rob it of its casual, free-flowing, and conversational feel? Won’t reading off of a page make you sound stilted and monotone? Not necessarily. For one thing, a podcast script doesn’t need to be a word-for-word transcript of your show. Podcast scripts, unlike stage or television scripts, can run the gambit from bare-bones to detailed, as long as they give you an outline and general idea of what should take place in your audio recording. A podcast script is basically a roadmap for your episode—and you can decide how many details you need to make it from point A to Z. A well-done script gives structure, direction, and conciseness to your podcast episode. Having an outline and a written direction for your show can help you feel more at ease and focus on the here and now, rather than being stressed about how you’re going to fill the next 30-45 minutes of recording time. It can also reduce mistakes, which can cut editing time significantly. When taking the editing time you’ll save into account, writing an outline might actually save you time in the end.
The length and detail of your podcast script will vary based on your style. Some podcasters choose to write out every word that they plan to say, while others jot down a few bullet points to keep themselves on track while they freewheel the recording.
It’s a good idea to use a podcast script template that stays consistent from episode to episode. It might have some flexibility to accommodate each episode’s needs, but the basics will stay the same. That way, your audience will know what to expect. Let’s break down the main components of a good podcast script below.
If you’ve listened to many podcasts, you know that most of them have the same introduction each time. A good intro will be short, welcoming, and include some type of theme music or jingle. The simplest podcast intro template looks like this: “Welcome to [podcast name], where we discuss [podcast topic or tagline]. I’m [host name], and with me is [co-host name]. Today, we’ll be talking about [episode topic] with our special guest, [guest name]. Let’s get started!” Your audience will appreciate a simple outline of what to expect in the episode.
Next, if your podcast interviews guests, you’ll need to introduce them. It’s important not to forget this step, since your guest is likely expecting to be shown the respect of a proper and correct introduction. That’s yet another reason why having a script is a good idea. Write out your guest’s information so that you’re sure you get it right. And be sure to include any contextual information about your guest that will help your audience understand why they should care what your guest thinks. This can be as simple as stating their profession, or as in-depth as giving a little backstory demonstrating their credibility. Your guest introduction can look something like: “Today on the show, we’re excited to have [guest name], [insert their profession, role, or title]. She/he/they are going to share [their expertise on ____, their story, some advice about ____, etc.]. Hi, [guest first name], and welcome to [podcast name]!”
Some podcast sponsors send word-for-word scripts that you simply need to read, then insert into your podcast episode. Other sponsors simply give you a set of talking points that you and your co-host are expected to discuss in a way that matches your show’s style. Either way, it’s a good idea to make a plan for what you’re going to say and how you’ll make the ad sound natural (rather than a hostage video) so that your audience will trust your advice, purchase the products, and your sponsors continue to… well, sponsor you. A good basic sponsor message might sound something like: “[Podcast name] is brought to you by [sponsor name]. [Sponsor] is [explain the product being sold, why it’s beneficial, and your positive personal experience with it. Explain why your audience should consider trying the product, and include your podcast’s discount or promo code, if applicable].”
Since your episode will likely have several different components, it’s important to plan out your transitions to make the podcast flow naturally and cohesively. You can approach these transitions (or segues) in several ways, including with a jingle, sound effect, or a spoken phrase. You might even choose to use a short clip of your podcast’s theme music. Whatever matches your podcast’s tone and your personal preferences!
And finally, it’s a good idea to include credits at the very end of your outro. Anyone who had a hand in the production of the episode should be credited.
Here’s a basic example of an outro script template:
“That brings us to the end of this episode! Thanks to [guest name] for joining us during that [adjective] discussion of [topic(s)]. We hope [the value brought to your audience by the episode] was beneficial to you. As always, thanks for listening to [podcast name].
“If you enjoy our show, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts—and be sure to come back next week for a discussion of [next episode’s topic]. Until then, this is [host name], and don’t forget: [podcast slogan/catchphrase]!
[Over outro music]: “This podcast was created by [name]. It was produced and recorded by [name], researched by [name], and edited by [name]. [Podcast name] is a product of [studio name].”
Now that you know the basic components of a podcast script, it’s time to consider which type of template will work best for you. We’ve included five script examples differentiated by whether you’re a minimalist, have a solo show, run an interview or conversational podcast, or want a word-for-word script.
Many podcasters simply create a bullet-point outline for their episodes. They may have years of experience under their belt, or they may just be really good at talking eloquently off-the-cuff. Either way, minimalist hosts may need a template as simple as this one:
Intro: _____ (Duration: _____ )
Topic 1: _______ (Duration: ____ )
Topic 2: _______ (Duration: ____ )
Topic 3: _______ (Duration: ____ )
Outro: _____ (Duration: ____ )
[Closing theme music]
If you’re the sole host of your podcast, you may find it comforting to have a thoroughly thought-out script and outline for each episode. Since you’ll be talking the entire time, you won’t have time to gather your thoughts while another person is speaking.
You can either organize your thoughts into a full script (in which case, try to keep your wording conversational and casual) or a detailed outline with the topics, supporting points, and any quotes or stories you want to mention.
Intro: Brief summary of the episode’s contents. Introduce yourself, your podcast, and any guests. (Duration: _____ )
Topic 1: _______________ (Duration: ___ )
Data, quotes, or other information
Topic 2: _______________ (Duration: ___ )
Data, quotes, or other information
Topic 3: _______________ (Duration: ___ )
Data, quotes, or other information
Outro: _____ (Duration: ____ )
[Closing theme music]
The most popular podcast format is the conversational/interview show. Audiences love the easy-going nature of conversations, where listeners feel that they’re simply sitting in on a talk between friends (whether the content is comedic, educational, or simply friendly banter).
These types of podcasts work best with a loose structure that supports the conversational element. It’s key to give the hosts space to speak normally and let the conversation flow as it wills while providing the right amount of structure to keep it from going off the rails.
Intro: Brief summary of the episode’s contents. Introduce yourself, your podcast, and any guests. (Duration: _____ )
Guest introduction: include a guest bio, including their title, experience, and any relevant accomplishments. Thank them for joining the podcast.
Question 1 (Duration: ____ )
Question 2 (Duration: ____ )
Question 3 (Duration: ____ )
Outro: _____ (Duration: ____ )
[Closing theme music]
Intro: Brief summary of the episode’s contents. Introduce yourself, your podcast, and any guests. (Duration: _____ )
Topic 1: ________ (Duration: ___ )
[Segue] (sound effect, short musical clip, or phrase)
Topic 2: ________ (Duration: ___ )
Topic 3: ________ (Duration: ___ )
Outro: (Duration: ___ )
[Closing music jingle/sound effects]
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This type of script works best for newbies or hosts of highly informational podcasts. If you’re inexperienced or need to get a lot of educational info into your episode, you probably need to write out exactly what you’re going to say. Use this outline to fill in your entire podcast, from intro to outro:
Intro: Brief summary of the episode’s contents. Introduce yourself, your podcast, and any guests. (Duration: _____ )
Topic 1: _______________ (Duration: ___ )
Data, quotes, or other information
Segue (can be a sound effect, short musical clip, or a phrase)
Topic 2: _______________ (Duration: ___ )
Data, quotes, or other information
Topic 3: _______________ (Duration: ___ )
Data, quotes, or other information
Outro: _____ (Duration: ____ )
[Closing theme music]
To get the most out of your podcast scripting journey, consider the following tips:
While creating a podcast script can have a varying process depending on your format and preferred style, the fact remains: a script will help you create an organized, structured, and efficient podcast recording.
If you’re looking for a way to level up your remote podcasting game, consider writing podcasting scripts for your upcoming episodes. Whether you’re a minimalist, a maximalist, a solo recorder, or a co-host, you’ll find that your production will benefit in endless ways from a podcast script.
Once your script is good to go, you’re ready to record your podcast. For a seamless podcasting experience, sign up for Riverside.
