How to Write a Killer Podcast Script

Planning your podcast script in advance is the key to a polished show. Fully improvising your episodes isn't an option if you want potential listeners to take your podcast seriously. The best way to plan is by creating killer content. Use your script as a guide to enhance the format of your show.

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Here’s how you can structure your script:

• Intro (trailer, music, topic)
• Point # 1
• Supporting evidence/anecdote
• Point # 2
• Supporting evidence/anecdote
• Point #3
• Supporting evidence/anecdote
• Outro (CTA)

Use this basic script outline as a starting point and keep it generally the same between each episode for consistency purposes. Here are tips for writing a podcast script that will dramatically improve your content and attract listeners:

Be Descriptive

Keep in mind that your listeners don’t have visual cues when they’re engaging with your content. Make notes in your podcast script to highlight ways you can overcome these challenges.

If you’re using a story to illustrate a point, ensure you use descriptors so that your audience is clear on the message you’retrying to convey. For example, if you refer to an image that your audience can’t see, try painting a picture with words. When you’re sharing a video, describe the story arc to your audience. When referring to a person, bring that person to life using vibrant language.

While you don’t need to detail everything you say, simply being aware of the fact that your audience can’t see what you’re talking about, your facial expressions, or body language means you need to compensate by being descriptive.

Inject Personality

Scripts help keep your content on track, but it’s best not to include all the details of what you want to say word-for-word.Concisely outline your episodes and leave room for improvisation. Allow your personality to shine through to avoid sounding like a robot. Ensure you use natural-sounding words and everyday language. You don’t want the show to sound scripted because this can make your audience feel alienated.

Introduction and Conclusion

Certain sections of your podcast however may benefit from being scripted word for word. Your introduction and conclusion will likely be similar every time you record. This helps your show remain consistent and your audience will know what to expect in every episode. Lean on your script to avoid forgetting to include call-to-action phrases such as sharing your website or following your social channels.

Organize Your Content

Use your script to determine the pacing of your content. A good pace helps keep your audience engaged - it’s neither too fast nor too slow. Outline where you’re going to have your content segments and transitions to move into a new topic. This makes the delivery of your show smooth because you know exactly how to pivot to keep the show moving.  

You likely have an idea of the duration you want your episode to be such as 30 minutes, 40 minutes, etc. In your script outline a rough estimate of the amount of time you will spend speaking about each section of content. This helps you avoid lengthy episodes and reduce the amount of time you’ll need to spend editing your podcast to remove unnecessary content.

Creating a Podcast Script

Creating a podcast script can be extremely valuable for producing a professional show. A little planning can go a long way to ensuring your podcast brings content to life and shares your personality. A script can enhance your show format with pacing and duration in mind. Consider hiring freelancers to create a killer script for your podcast.