How to Write a Podcast Script: Tips for Podcast Script-Writing

A podcast is a collection or series of digital audio files that are made available for downloading or listening via the Internet. Each individual audio recording is known as a podcast episode. Podcasts are typically hosted by an individual or individuals who lead a conversation, share stories, or report the news. The creator of a podcast is known as a podcaster. Podcasts are hosted on streaming applications such as Spotify, Stitcher, iTunes, Google Podcasts, and Apple Podcasts (the podcast app that comes with iOS).

The history of podcasting began with the creation of the iPod. In fact, the word "podcast" is a portmanteau—a combination of the word "iPod" and "broadcast."

Whether you're considering making your own podcast or simply looking for a new show to listen to, there are a few popular podcast formats to consider.

1. 1. Scripted fiction: Scripted fiction podcasts are audio-only theatrical productions. Some fictional podcasts might tell a single serialized story—much like a TV show or audiobook—or they may tell a new story with each episode.
2. 2. Interview: Interview-style podcasts typically have a host or pair of co-hosts who conduct an interview with a person of interest, similar to a TV talk show.
3. 3. Monologue: Single individuals produce monologue, or solo, podcasts. They might be an expert in a particular field with information to share, a storyteller, comedian, or news anchor.
4. 4. Nonfiction storytelling: One of the most popular types of podcasts is storytelling podcasts that retell true stories. These podcasts may contain interviews with those involved in the story or an expert with knowledge of the story. True crime podcasts fit within this category.
5. 5. Conversational: Another popular podcast format involves a panel of hosts who record themselves having interesting and entertaining conversations on a specific topic. This could include comedy, sports, pop culture, science, history, and more.

There are many ways to go about writing your own podcast script. It could be a word-for-word script (with room for ad-libbing) or simple bullet points to help keep you on track. Regardless, there are a few basic elements that each script should contain.

1. 1. Podcast intro: In its simplest form, a good podcast intro will welcome listeners, state the podcast name, and include a short jingle or intro music. You may also choose to include your podcast's theme or tagline, guest names, and the topic of the episode.
2. 2. Guest introductions: Before starting your podcast interview, give your guest a thorough introduction. The guest intro should help listeners understand why they should care about what your guest has to say. The scripting process is a great time to make sure their bio and other information is correct. Even if you're familiar with your guest, it's good practice to write down a formal introduction that presents your guest’s credibility.
3. 3. Segues: Well-planned transitions will help your podcast flow naturally. It's helpful to mark your transitions with a sound effect, music jingle, or transitional phrase.
4. 4. Sponsor message: Sponsors often supply podcasters with a word-for-word script for you to read aloud. Others will send a list of talking points for you to deliver in a manner consistent with your podcast's style.
5. 5. Outro: To wrap things up, consider giving a brief recap or overview of the episode. Give a quick thank you to your guests and listeners and consider offering a teaser of the next episode. Your closing remarks should include a call-to-action (CTA). A good CTA could include asking your listeners to leave a review of the show, interact on social media, or check out the show notes for additional information.
6. 6. Credits: Before signing off, be sure to read the credits if your podcast has editors or producers who helped you make your show. You can roll the outro music in the background as you read the credits or play a few seconds of outro music after to wrap up the episode.

Consider a few podcast script examples to jump-start your scriptwriting process.

1. 1. Basic outline: A basic outline can look like a broad overview of the general flow of the episode. Make a bullet-point list that contains the intro, topics you'll cover, segues, sponsor messages, and the outro. This leaves a lot of room for improvisation while still providing a clear direction for the show.
2. 2. Solo show: When writing your own solo show script, you may choose to write what you wish to say word-for-word. At the very least, it's helpful to clearly state your main point, supporting points, and any supporting quotes, data, or additional information you wish to represent accurately.
3. 3. Interview: An interview script would not be complete without a list of questions that you intend to ask your guest. The conversation will most likely take you to unexpected places, but it's important to have your questions written down to ensure you obtain as much relevant information as possible.

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