Are you a podcast creator searching for ways to take your episodes to the next level? Look no further! In this blog, we’ll explore five podcast script templates that will revolutionize your podcasts and help you captivate your audience.
Creating a compelling script can be challenging, so we’ve partnered with Sabrina Seiwert, the Lead Creative Producer from Resonate Recordings. With over 2.5 years of experience and involvement in hundreds of shows, Sabrina is an expert in the creative aspects of podcast production, from pre-production to launch. Her impressive background of 15 years in TV, film, and digital media, including work with The Ellen Degeneres Show and Oprah Winfrey Network, has given her invaluable insights into producing captivating content.
Drawing from her expertise, we’ve developed four podcast script templates that you can quickly adapt to suit your unique style and subject matter.
So, whether you’re a beginner seeking guidance or a seasoned podcaster looking to refine your format, get ready to discover these invaluable podcast script templates.
4 Podcast script templates that you can steal
Before we begin, it’s important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to scripts. Customization is vital to creating a podcast that reflects your personality and connects with your audience. However, these templates will give you a solid foundation to build upon, making it easier to unleash your creativity and bring your ideas to life.
“You should have a customized script for each episode. Period. Don’t go on autopilot and assume you’ve got this because no conversation goes well without a plan.”
- Sabrina, Lead Creative Producer at Resonate Recordings
Now let’s dive into each template.
1. Interview podcast script template
Envision this: you’re seated with captivating guests, engaged in insightful conversations that effortlessly flow like friendly chats. Finding the perfect balance between a relaxed atmosphere and a structured approach is key. That’s where an interview-style podcast script template comes in.
It ensures you ask the burning questions that captivate your audience, all while allowing for spontaneous and natural exchanges.
Here’s an interview script template you can use.
Introduction
Teaser (pull a 10-30 sec clip from the episode to draw people in)
Recurring introduction Welcome to [the name of the podcast], the podcast that [the topic or tagline of the podcast]. Each week we will [the theme of the podcast]. [Insert a catch phrase for example - Let’s dive in]
Welcome message. Introduce yourself as the host: I’m your host _________ (You should add some credentials to show that you’re the one for the job)
Sponsor message (If applicable): Today’s episode is brought to you by [sponsor name]. [Sponsor name] is [talk about the benefits of the sponsor’s product or service].
Introduce the guest
Introduce the guest with enthusiasm
Highlight their expertise and achievements
Express gratitude for their presence on the podcast: We are thrilled to have [guest name], an expert in [profession, role, or title], on today's episode of [podcast name]. [He/She/They] is here to share their incredible insights on [topic], their own inspiring story, and some awesome advice about [topic]. Hello, [guest first name], and welcome to [podcast name]!
Transition smoothly to the interview
Questions 1-3 (Establish the beginning of the topic/problem or the guest’s career)
Music transition
Questions 4 -8 (Establish where the topic/problem or person’s career is currently)
Music transition
Questions 9-10 (Establish where the topic/problem or person’s career is going)
Segue / Ender Segment
Play a short musical tune or a sound effect
Play a game, ask a question from social media, rapid fire round etc
Closing segment
Reflect on the highlights of the conversation
Emphasize key takeaways or valuable insights
Call-to-action
Encourage listeners to engage with the podcast
Prompt them to follow or subscribe, leave reviews, and follow on social media
Outro
Express gratitude to the guest for their valuable contribution
Thank the listeners for tuning in
Allow the guest to share any relevant links or promotions
Tease the next episode or upcoming content: Thanks for listening to [podcast name]. Before we end the show [Prompt to follow or subscribe, leave reviews, and follow on social media]. Stay tuned for next week where we [next episode’s topic].
Create a wishlist of potential podcast guests and categorize it into three buckets
1. Safety: This guest is a shoe-in
2. Target: I am confident I can book this guest
3. Reach: This is a stretch guest
Prepare a simple and concise pitch that you can use to reach out to these guests. This could be an email template or a PDF you send out talking about your podcast concept, the types of questions you ask your guests, audience demographics, and more.
Your pitch should include at least the following
The theme and the link of your podcast
A bio on the host
A general description of the usual guests of the show
Information about the show day. This includes the time frame, the types of questions etc.
Research your guests to get a sense of their expertise and unique perspectives. It's a great way to make the conversation flow naturally, as you can delve into common interests and shared experiences.
Have a preliminary chat with your guest to test equipment, lay the ground rules, and discover their preferred types of questions.
Share your list of questions with your guest beforehand.
As your listeners tune in, they’ll feel like active participants, soaking up knowledge and enjoying friendly banter.
One last note, if you have a co-hosted podcast the above template is also excellent for you to use.
2. Monologue podcast script template
Are you hosting a podcast all by yourself and feeling overwhelmed? Worried about those awkward moments of silence when you’re the only one talking? Well, a monologue podcast script template will save the day for you!
Here’s a monologue script template you can use.
Introduction
Welcome message: Welcome to [the name of the podcast], the podcast that [the topic or tagline of the podcast]. Each week we will [the theme of the podcast]. [Insert a catch phrase for example - Let’s dive in]
Host introduction: I am your host [Introduce yourself and establish your credibility or connection to the topic]
Topic introduction: Today we will talk about [briefly explain what the episode will cover and what listeners can expect to learn or gain from it]
Sponsor message (If applicable): Today’s episode is brought to you by [sponsor name]. [Sponsor name] is [share a brief message about their products or services].
Segue
Transition smoothly into the first topic
Introduce topic 1
Topic introduction: Our first topic revolves around [set the stage for the first topic and explain its relevance or importance]
Main points: Outline the key points you’ll discuss within the topic
Supporting points: Provide additional details, examples, or evidence to support your main points
Segue
Transition seamlessly into the next topic
Introduce topic 2
Next, we’re going to discuss [introduce the second topic and explain why it matters to your audience]
Main points: Present the main points you’ll cover within the topic
Supporting points: Offer supporting information, data, quotes, or anecdotes to enhance your main points
Segue
Transition seamlessly into the next topic
Introduce topic 3
Let’s move on to [introduce the third and final topic, highlighting its significance or relevance]
Main points: Outline the main points you’ll explore within this topic
Supporting points: Include supporting facts, figures, quotes, or stories to enrich your discussion
Summary notes
Topic recap: [Summarize the main points covered in each topic]
Episode reflection: [Share your thoughts, insights, or personal experiences related to the content]
Outro
Thank you for [thank your listeners for tuning in and supporting your podcast] Before we end today’s episode [encourage your listeners to take a specific action, such as following the podcast, leaving a review, or visiting your website, attending an event or participating in a survey] Make sure you join us on [mention your social media handles and encourage listeners to connect with you] Stay tuned for the next episode where we [give a sneak peek or hint about what to expect in the next episode to keep your audience engaged]
Play closing theme music to wrap up the episode pleasantly
Create a compelling story arc by exploring the topic’s past, present, and future. This framework can be used in dozens of ways, but here are a few quick examples. If you’re talking about an individual, trace the history of their careers past, present state, and future projections. If you’re talking about a company, share its founding story, where it is today, and where you expect it to be in 5 years. You get the idea: Use this framework silently in your show to create a story that listeners can easily follow along.
Harness the power of the Aristotelian Triptych to deliver impactful communication. Begin by telling your audience what you’re going to say, say it, then say it again. This framework for introducing a topic, sharing the details, and recapping the topic is a powerful tool that some of the world’s most excellent communicators have used for centuries.
3. Roundtable podcast script template
Picture this: a roundtable podcast where you and your fellow hosts engage in thought-provoking conversations, sharing ideas, opinions, and insights on various topics. But here’s the challenge - you want to ensure the discussion remains engaging, well-informed and avoids chaotic overlaps.
That’s where the roundtable template comes into play.
Introduction
Play intro music
Introduction of the show and host: Welcome to [name of the podcast], where we talk about [brief theme or tagline of the show] I am you host [name of the host] Today we are going to talk about [introduce the main points of the episode]
Introducing the panelists/guests: I am thrilled to announce that we have with us [names of the guests. Include bio/titles/experience of the guests] They are here to [share the purpose, for example: talk about, provide insights, talk about their experience]. Welcome to the show [guests’ names]
Sponsor message: Today’s episode is brought to you by [sponsor name]. [Sponsor name] is [share a brief message about their products or services].
Segue
Transition seamlessly into the first topic
Play music
Introduce topic 1
Let’s talk about [the host describes the topic]
The panelists take turns to share their insights on the topic
Ad segment
1-3 ads/ sponsor messages or shoutouts to your patrons
Segue
Transition seamlessly into the next topic
Play music
Introduce topic 2
The host describes the topic
The panelists share their thoughts and experiences
Segue
Transition seamlessly into the next topic
Introduce topic 3
The host describes the topic
The panelists share their insights
Outro
Thank you for [thank your listeners for tuning in and supporting your podcast] Before we end today’s episode [encourage your listeners to take a specific action, such as following the podcast, leaving a review, or visiting your website, attending an event or participating in a survey] Make sure you join us on [mention your social media handles and encourage listeners to connect with you] Stay tuned for the next episode where we [give a sneak peek or hint about what to expect in the next episode to keep your audience engaged]
Play closing theme music to wrap up the episode pleasantly
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind for your show
Plan ahead and assign specific topic aspects to each speaker to maintain structure.
Make sure to have a designated moderator who can guide the conversation smoothly.
Introduce everyone clearly at the beginning to avoid confusion about voices.
Address individuals by name to create a more personal and engaging atmosphere. For example, you can say, “Ariana, what do you think about that?”
4. Narrative podcast script template
The narrative podcast script template helps you to plan and deliver a mesmerizing performance. Your script becomes a canvas where interviews, audio clips, and snippets of music converge. You curate the perfect blend of recorded conversations, real-life voices, and carefully selected sound bites. These elements inject authenticity and depth into your narrative, enveloping your listeners in a world where they feel like active participants.
Here’s a narrative script template you can use.
Introduction
The host introduces the episode’s focus and provides an overview of the podcast: Welcome to [the name of the podcast], the podcast that [the topic or tagline of the podcast]. I am your host [Introduce yourself]. Today we will talk about [briefly explain what the episode will cover and what listeners can expect to learn or gain from it]. [Insert a catch phrase for example - Let’s dive in]
Main story segment
The host speaks about the topic, sharing experiences, thoughts, or narrating a story.
Incorporate tape and sound elements
Sponsor segment
Today’s episode is brought to you by [sponsor name]. [Sponsor name] is [share a brief message about their products or services]
Resume the show
The host cover other stories or segments
Outro
Closing remarks
CTA
Credits
Thank you for [thank your listeners for tuning in and supporting your podcast] Before we end today’s episode [encourage your listeners to take a specific action, such as following the podcast, leaving a review, or visiting your website, attending an event or participating in a survey] Make sure you join us on [mention your social media handles and encourage listeners to connect with you] Stay tuned for the next episode where we [give a sneak peek or hint about what to expect in the next episode to keep your audience engaged]. [Name of the show] is [written, hosted, produced, edited etc ] by [give credits]
Drawing inspiration from popular podcasts like “Hidden Brain,” “Turned Podcaster,” and “How I Built This,” we’ve drafted a short overview of the narrative podcast script template which will help you craft a compelling and engaging storytelling experience.
Teaser clip: Begin your episode with an attention-grabbing teaser clip that sets the tone and hooks the listeners right from the start.
Narrative-style intro: Dive into a well-crafted introduction that takes your audience on a journey. Build suspense, intrigue, or curiosity with your storytelling approach, drawing them deeper into the episode.
Voiceover-driven content: Keep the focus on the voiceover throughout the episode. Craft a compelling script that guides the listener through the narrative, providing critical information, insights, and storytelling elements.
Editorial approach: Provide thoughtful analysis, expert opinions, or personal anecdotes that enrich the storytelling experience. Offer unique perspectives and dig deeper into the subject matter to keep your listeners engaged and intellectually stimulated.
Tips for narrative podcasts
Everyone wants to create the next Hidden Brain podcast. But we know from firsthand experience (and talking to Sabrina) that starting a podcast with this style is very time consuming and challenging. Before you dive into this format, we recommend asking yourself some key questions to make sure you’re ready to bear this burden:
Are you planning to outsource the writing, or will you handle it in-house?
Do you require sound design? Can you afford to outsource this aspect, or do you have the necessary skills to handle it yourself?
Is it crucial for your story to include voices outside of your internal team?
Will your show feature multiple guests?
Which topic will you be covering? Is there enough to talk about to create a show around this issue?
What is the best way to tell the story? Is a narrative style show truly the best way?
Will your episodes include interviews, voiceovers, sound design, and music?
How will the episodes flow together as a cohesive series?
Answering these questions will help you decide if a narrative style show is right for you, so you can be well-prepared for launching a successful show for the long-term.
What is a podcast script? Podcast script vs. podcast format
The terms podcast format and podcast script are closely related words that are very important to distinguish in this conversation.
Podcast format: The format of your show refers to the structure and style that your podcast follows. It determines the manner in which the content is presented to the listeners. For example, the format of a podcast could be interview, monologue, roundtable or narrative.
Podcast script: The script, on the other hand, pertains to the specific plan and outline for your podcast episode. While the format sets the overall structure, the script provides a detailed roadmap for the content within that structure. It goes beyond simply stating that there will be an introduction and a central topic. Instead, it outlines the specific elements, questions, or sections that will be included in the episode.
The script provides a framework for the host or hosts to follow while recording the episode, ensuring that the content is well-organized and engaging for the listeners.
“Format is the container, and scripting is the details. Every person needs a script, which is really just talking points and a roadmap.”
- Sabrina, Lead Creative Producer at Resonate Recordings
Common podcast segments
Every podcast is made up of the same common building blocks or segments. We’ll explore various elements commonly found in podcasts and discuss their importance in creating engaging and cohesive episodes below.
1. Recurring introduction
A recurring introduction sets the tone for your podcast. Consider using a tagline that captures the essence of your show, such as “The show about living and working deeply in a distracted world.” This helps establish your podcast’s identity.
Introduce yourself at the beginning of each episode, stating your name, area of expertise, and why you are credible to discuss the topic. This helps new listeners understand your background and qualifications. Ex: My name is Sabrina. I’m the Lead Podcast Producer at Resonate Recordings with over 15 years of experience.”
Develop a catchy catchphrase or sign-in to start each topic. It could be a pun, a friendly greeting like “What’s up, guys?” or a simple invitation to discuss the topic. This helps create familiarity and anticipation for the upcoming conversation.
If you have interview-style episodes, decide whether to provide a past tense intro, recapping the interview before diving in, or a present tense intro, pretending the interview is happening live. Choose the style that aligns best with your podcast format and content.
2. Guest introduction
When featuring guests on your podcast, make sure to introduce them at the beginning of the episode.
Provide a brief background on each guest, highlighting their expertise and achievements. This helps establish their credibility and adds value to the conversation.
3. Ad segment
Consider incorporating an ad segment into your podcast.
This can be a pre-roll, mid-roll, or post-roll segment where you feature sponsored content or promote products and services.
Ensure the ads align with your podcast’s theme and audience to maintain relevance and authenticity.
4. Outro
Similar to the introduction, develop a consistent way to end each episode.
This could involve ending with rapid-fire questions, sharing a specific case study from your listeners, assigning homework, or answering a question from listeners on social media platforms like Twitter or SpeakPipe.
This provides a sense of closure while leaving listeners eager for the next episode.
5. Call to action (CTA)
Include a call to action in your podcast, particularly for sensitive topics. Provide resources such as hotlines or key organizations that can help listeners if they are dealing with the discussed subject matter.
Optionally, ask your guest where listeners can find them if they want to explore their work further.
Encourage your listeners to follow, subscribe, and rate your show. Make this request personal, explaining how their support matters and helps spread the word. Provide links to your social media platforms and invite them to ask questions or suggest topics for future episodes.
To increase listener retention, look for ways to keep them hooked on the show. Assign homework, tease the next topic, or create a sense of anticipation for upcoming episodes. This helps build anticipation and encourages continued engagement.
Incorporating these standard podcast segments into your episodes can create a cohesive and engaging experience for your listeners.
5 Tips for crafting the perfect script (from a professional producer)
As podcasting continues to offer a platform for democratizing creative expression, Sabrina is passionate about empowering like-minded individuals to share their stories with the world. She aims to help you unlock your podcasting potential and inspire you to produce content that stands out in this rapidly growing medium.
Here are the five tips from Sabrina for crafting the perfect podcast script
1. Don’t try to be somebody you’re not on the mic
Oscar Wilde famously said, “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” As cliché as it may sound, this advice holds. Avoid imitating other podcast hosts like Guy Raz or Ashley Flowers. Instead, be honest with yourself and leverage your unique strengths. Be true to your personality.
2. Write a script for every episode
Always come prepared for your episodes, even if it means jotting down three topic ideas or questions for your guest. Contrary to popular belief and memes, simply hitting the record button and talking without a script does not create an engaging podcast. Preparation is key.
3. Use story arcs to your advantage
Organize your content into three acts: the past, the present, and the future. This storytelling technique can be applied to various aspects, such as a person’s life, a business, a relationship, or an interesting topic. Although you won’t explicitly mention “ACT II: THE MIDDLE,” this framework will help you structure your script effectively.
4. Decide if the personality or content drives your episode
Understand that listeners are drawn in either by the host’s personality or the topic being discussed. It’s important to intentionally decide which element will take precedence. For instance, if a topic might be considered boring, let your opinions or energetic personality drive the episode. If you have a fascinating guest, allow them to be the superstar of that particular episode.
5. Boost retention by adding a hook to your outro
Conclude each episode in a way that leaves listeners wanting more and eagerly anticipating the next. You can achieve this by including a teaser clip, discussing the next episode’s topic, creating multi-part series with secret reveals, or even assigning a small homework task to engage your audience. These hooks will encourage listeners to download and continue tuning in to your podcast.
Example podcasts with engaging structures
Check out some of our favorite podcasts below to get inspired by the way they structure their episodes.
Voiceover introduction of the episode, announcements
Guest introduction
Introduction of the sub-topic
Conversation between the hosts and the guest
Behind the scenes (recordings of site visits, other conversations with the guests, snippets, research)
CTA to join the membership program and support the podcast
Introduction to the next guest
Updates
Outro
Snippets of calls, behind the scenes, guest conversation, questions
Parting thoughts
In conclusion, we’ve uncovered four incredible podcast script templates you can steal and make your own. These templates offer a fantastic starting point whether you’re planning an interview-style show, a solo monologue, or a captivating narrative-driven episode.
But let’s not stop at stealing. Let’s get innovative! Feel free to mix and match elements from different templates to create a script that’s as unique as your podcast. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different formats, segments, and tones to keep your audience engaged and eager for more.
And if you’re looking for a hassle-free way to polish your podcast, look no further than Resound. Our intuitive app makes editing a breeze, allowing you to easily enhance audio quality and add professional touches to your episodes.
So, grab these templates, infuse them with your creativity, and press that record button. Your voice deserves to be heard, and with a customized script and a touch of imagination, your podcast can captivate listeners from every corner of the world.
