How To Start a Podcast: How to Write a Podcast Script

5 min read
Nov 14, 2021

Next in this guide on how to start a podcast will focus on teaching you on how to write a podcast script. One of the biggest questions on the lips and minds of new podcasters bothers on how to write a podcast script. While your favourite podcast may sound like a casual conversation, it's the results of the hours of planning and preparation that involves podcast script writing.  Before going deeper, we must state that a podcast is meant to take your listeners on a journey. If the journey is adventurous, informational and entertaining, you'll not have to spend a fortune on podcast marketing as your listeners will keep on coming back for more.  One of the means to achieving this is through podcast scripting. While it's not meant to be a word for word thing, but short blurbs or bullets guide your thoughts during the podcast recording process. More like guiding your thoughts through the listener journey you've charted out. 

Which Podcast Script is Best For You?

Three podcast script formats can be written for your podcast show; 

Full Script

Before you hit the record button, you have everything you'll say written down. This is usually the entry point for most podcasters.  This method allows you to cover every idea, get your facts right, and not skip a thought. If you are still sharpening your public speaking skills, you should consider this format. 

Talking Points

If you are flexible in your style and approach, this is ideal for you. For this type, all you need is a topic that you build important talking points around. The conversation will determine the flow of the podcast. 

Bullet Points

This is said to be the fastest podcast script to curate. All that is expected is little details on the topic that will be covered.  Having bullets give some structure to your podcast as you follow the already identified line of thoughts. While you can be spontaneous in podcast recording, you won't want to be rambling and losing the listeners in the journey. 

How to Write a Podscast Script Template

You must have decided on the podcast script format that is best for you. Here's how the podcats script is meant to look like. This podcast script template is for a solo podcast show but can also be adapted for a guest show. 

Music Intro
Host Intro
Sponsors Message and Adverts
Topic 1 (Time Allotted)
- Main Point
- Supporting Quote
- Supporting Point
- Supporting Data
Segue (Phrase, short musical clip, sound effect, etc.)
Topic 2 (Time allotted)
- Main Point
- Supporting Quote
- Supporting Point
- Supporting Data
Sponsor's Message and Adverts
Topic 3 (Time allotted)
- Main Point
- Supporting Quote
- Supporting Point
- Supporting Data
Recap/Closing remarks
Sponsor's Message/advert
Outro

How To Write a Podcast Script

As a new podcaster, we recommend that you write a podcast script before recording. Without some form of practice, it will be pretty tricky to talk smoothly, intelligently, and non-stop for the duration of your podcast.  Over time, you can go from your word for word script to just a few outlines. Regardless, here are a few tips on how to write a podcast script; 

Write in a Conversational Tone

The reason why many new podcasters sound boring and monotonous is the way they write their podcast script. Your writing should be crafted in the way you speak. Remember that your script is to be heard and not read. Ensure that you write the podcast script for the ear and not the eyes.  Avoid trying to emulate your favorite podcasters; else, you'll lose your voice. Take out time to edit by practicing to smooth out the rough edges. Don't forget to take stock of all the information you intend to reel out. 

Create an Image In the Minds of Your Listeners

Writing a killer podcast script isn't about just writing the way you speak but the journey you take your listeners through. Paint a picture in the minds of your listeners, bring them into the story.  Please don't lose your listeners at any point; they want to be taken on a journey with you.  Take out time to create a narrative that takes the breath of your listeners away. It's about being vivid without saying too much, telling them the look, the smell and the sights. 

Let Your Script Meet Your Style and Skill

Every podcaster has their style, and needs are also different. If you have a solo show, let the podcast be at par with your comfort level. If you have a co-host, the podcast script should reflect the style and skill of the hosts.  Don't forget that every segment of your podcast might require a script. While it may not appear like it, some podcasters script out their introductions, adverts and even sponsors messages. 

Keep It at a Reasonable Pace

When writing your podcast script, ensure you keep pace. A good podcast isn't too fast or too slow. It just has to move at a speed that keeps the listeners engaged through the entire podcast.  The intend of a podcast script is to limit long and unintended pauses. Don't talk too fast that your listeners find it hard to understand you. Employ segments and transitions where necessary to keep the podcast organized and help listeners maintain a pace.  Key in transition phrases where necessary, you will be doing both yourself and your listeners a considerable favour. 

Allow For Some Vibing

Yea, you read that right. Even though you have a podcast script, don't be rigid about it. Bring in some energy, vibes and riffing at some point. Your listeners will love it, and it will boost your spirit also.  While recording, you might remember a piece of vital information that could be of good use; chip it in. If you think you've gone off the radar, you can always edit it out later. 

Final Thoughts on How to Write a Podcast Script

Getting it right with your podcast scriptwriting will get you close to your podcast goals (you have one, right?). Regardless of what anyone might say, preparation is one of the keys to a successful podcast.  Don't try to wing your podcasts. Spend time polishing and ironing things out; your podcast will be better for it.  Up Next: How To Choose a Podcast Host

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