How to Write a Podcast Script: A Step-by-Step Guide

Want more advice on how to write a podcast script? Check out Cara Stevens’ Zoom webinar How to Start a Podcast.

Cara J. Stevens is an author, editor, podcaster and book coach. She has written more than 80 books for young readers based on video games, pop-culture trends, and beloved characters including Pokémon Go, Terraria, and Minecraft and the K-pop groups BTS and BlackPink. Through her weekly column and companion podcast, The Picture Perfect Podcast, she guides aspiring writers on their journey to authorship, helping them develop their craft, find their voice, and share their stories with the world. A native New Yorker, Cara lives in Los Angeles with her husband, two grown-ish children and a loud, fluffy dog named Oliver.

 

Podcasts are great! They’re entertaining, informative, and exciting to engage with. There are about half a billion podcast listeners worldwide, and the boom in writers wanting to work on podcasts doesn’t seem to be slowing down. If you’re one of those people itching to get behind the microphone, you might be wondering how to write a podcast script. 

The number one rule of podcasting is to speak directly to your audience. When you have a sense of your listeners or potential audience, you can focus on connecting with them in an authentic and engaging way. On the other hand, when you send a podcast out into the ether armed only with an idea and an agenda, you’re simply shouting into the darkness hoping to catch the notice of a passerby.

But knowing your audience is just the first step. Whether you’re crafting content for a solo episode, interviews, or group discussions, knowing how to write a podcast script and craft your message properly is essential for producing a successful show. Unlike traditional writing, podcast scripts must be easy to follow, conversational, and structured to keep the audience engaged from start to finish.

Let’s get into the weeds of podcast writing. How do you write a podcast script? 

How to Write a Podcast Script: The Basics

Podcast writing differs from other forms of writing because your audience relies solely on what they hear. To ensure your message comes across clearly and compellingly, keep these principles in mind:

• Understand Your Audience: This point bears repeating: Tailor your script to the needs and expectations of your listeners. Whether they’re tuning in for insights, entertainment, or education, understanding your audience helps you craft a script that resonates.
• Keep It Conversational: Write as though you’re speaking to a friend. Use natural word choice, avoid complex sentences, and ensure your script is easy to follow.
• Use Active Voice: Active voice keeps your script engaging and direct, making it easier for listeners to stay focused on your content.
• Structure Is Key: A clear structure with a beginning, middle, and end ensures your podcast flows logically, helping your audience follow along without getting lost.
• Repeat Key Points: While you don’t want to repeat yourself too often in written prose, restating an important point in different ways can help drive it home and make your message memorable.

How to Write a Podcast Script

1. Choose Your Approach: Script, Notes, or Outline?

Before you begin writing, decide how you want to structure your content:

• Full Script: Writing a full script can help you stay precise and cover complex topics thoroughly. This method is especially useful for solo podcasts but can be adapted for interviews and group discussions as well. Just be mindful to read it naturally, so it doesn’t sound stiff. Practice makes perfect, and a conversational tone comes across better than an overly didactic one.
• Notes: Bullet points or brief notes give you more freedom to speak spontaneously, which can make your podcast feel more conversational. This approach is ideal if you’re comfortable with public speaking and want to create a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Outline: A detailed outline offers a balance between structure and spontaneity. It provides guidance on the flow of the episode while allowing you to speak naturally. This method works well across different podcast formats. Within an outline, you can write out key phrases you want to say exactly as-is as well as hints to yourself on where to expand on a point.

2. Crafting the Perfect Introduction

The introduction is your chance to hook listeners right from the start. Here’s how to create an intro that grabs attention:

• Start Strong: Open with a compelling statement or question that draws listeners in immediately.
• Tease What’s to Come: Offer a hint or teaser about something interesting that will be covered later in the episode, such as a special guest, an unexpected insight, a call-to-action at the end, or a useful resource available in the episode description.
• Introduce the Topic and Yourself: Briefly outline what the episode will cover and introduce yourself to establish a connection with your audience.
• Keep It Brief: A concise intro keeps the energy up and gets listeners excited about what’s to come.

3. Scriptwriting for Different Formats

Your approach to scripting may vary depending on the format of your podcast. Here’s how to tailor your script based on the type of episode:

• Interviews: When scripting for interviews, include your main questions and possible follow-up topics, but leave room for organic conversation. This allows for a natural flow while ensuring you cover key points.
• Group Discussions: For group discussions, outline the main topics and assign specific points to each participant, if needed. This helps maintain order and ensures everyone has a chance to contribute.
• Solo Podcasts: Solo episodes can benefit from a more detailed script, especially if you’re covering intricate information. Whether you choose a full script, notes, or an outline, make sure your delivery feels personal and engaging.

4. Writing the Middle and End of Your Podcast

The middle of your podcast is where you dive into the main content. To keep your audience engaged:

• Stick to the Plan: Follow the outline or notes you’ve prepared to stay on track and avoid unnecessary tangents.
• Engage Your Audience: Pose questions or offer prompts that encourage listeners to think or take action, keeping them actively involved in the episode.
• Summarize Key Points: As you wrap up the main content, recap the most important points to reinforce your message and provide clarity.

Tips for Good Podcast Writing

Good podcast writing ensures your script is both effective and engaging. Here are a few tips to refine your approach:

• Read It Aloud: Practice reading your script out loud to catch any awkward phrasing or overly complex sentences.
• Be Concise: Keep your script focused and avoid filler that could dilute your message.
• Allow for Flexibility: Even with a detailed script, leave room for natural conversation or impromptu thoughts that can add depth to your content.

Outro: Crafting a Memorable Sign-Off

The way you close your podcast is just as important as the opening. A strong sign-off keeps your audience thinking about your content long after the episode ends. Here’s how to craft an effective outro:

• New CTA Each Time: Rotate your calls-to-action (CTAs) to keep things fresh. For instance, one episode might encourage listeners to visit your website for additional resources, while another could prompt them to download a free guide related to the episode’s topic.
• Steps to Take After Listening: Offer actionable steps that listeners can take immediately after the episode ends. This could include applying a specific tip from the episode, checking out a resource you mentioned, or engaging with your content on social media.
• Prompt for More Information: Direct listeners to further resources, such as links in the episode description, an upcoming episode, or exclusive content available for a small fee. This is also an opportunity to guide them toward signing up for your email list in exchange for a valuable download, using your podcast as a funnel to build your audience.
• End on a Personal Note: Sign off with a personal touch—whether it’s a thank you for tuning in, a reminder about something important, or an invitation to connect on social media.

Learn How to Write a Podcast Script at Writers.com

If you’re eager to learn more about writing for podcasts, my upcoming class at Writers.com dives deep into topics like how to write a podcast script, how to write a podcast outline, and advanced techniques for making your episodes stand out. Whether you’re just starting or looking to improve your skills, this class will provide the tools you need to create compelling, successful content.

Happy podcasting!