Every podcast episode needs two things! I mean, there are more than two things needed, but two things MUST be on each podcast episode. But before we jump into what those things are, remember that launching a podcast, getting the show running smoothly, and getting a schedule that works for you all have moving parts to it. As a seasoned podcaster and podcast coach, my job is to provide tips and tricks to make your podcasting experience the least overwhelming as possible.
I’m super excited you finally decided to get your podcast going. As you are getting things together for your podcast and you’re outlining your episodes, make sure you include these two things: an intro and an outro!
This may seem like obvious information but trust me, there are podcasts out there that don’t have this. Now, I want to share with you what exactly to include in each part!
What Is an Intro (Introduction) For Podcast Episodes
The introduction of your episode, intro for short, is the first thing that listeners will hear when they press play on your podcast episode. Think of it like the introduction of a TV show!
What Should You Include in the Intro
Each episode should have the same intro. If you are doing seasons, you can change it up for each season but make sure that it’s not a different intro for each episode because you want consistency. Also, keep in mind as you publish more episodes, not everyone will start on your first episode. They may listen to episode 15 first because that’s the episode a friend recommended. Make sure your introduction has this:
- Music (royalty-free – we don’t want copyright lawsuits)
- Who you are
- Name of your podcast
- What your podcast is about
- If you have a slogan/saying/or mission
The best thing to do is record the intro, save that file, and plug it in when you’re editing. Some podcasters, after their initial intro, will record a welcoming message letting the listeners know what this particular episode is about. This is an option, or you can just get right into the episode.
What Is an Outro for Podcast Episodes
The outro is the opposite of the introduction of the episode. So it’s the closing remarks of the episode. Think of it like the ending credits of a movie or TV show!
What Should You Include in the Outro
Same as the intro, every episode should have the same outro. The most important thing to have in your outro is a call to action. Do not end your episode without one! Tell your listeners what to do next after listening to your episode. Here are a few call-to-action ideas:
- First, thank them for listening (time is precious)
- Leave a review or rate the podcast (depending on which platform they are listening on)
- Follow on social media
- Subscribe to the podcast
- Sign up for your newsletter
- Share with a friend
If your podcast is an extension of your business, this is the perfect place to plugin whatever products or services you offer. And change the outro whenever you have a new product or service available.
Remember to include all the links to resources, products, or services mentioned in the episode in the shownotes. In another post, I’ll tell you exactly how to write your shownotes and what to include.
Conclusion
One of the great things about podcasting is that you can create your show and adjust it to your liking, however, there are a few things that are needed to make the podcast successful. And an intro and outro for each episode is one of them! I hope this article was helpful; if so, please share it with a podcasting friend.
Coming soon, I’ll have a podcast starting kit for purchase that will include a weekly planner, monthly planner, guest intake form, episode outline, and shownotes outline.
With Love, Heidy
P.S. If you would like a free checklist to get started on your podcast and a list of equipment and tools I use for my show, sign up for my podcast newsletter at the bottom of this page.
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