What is Pre-Roll Ad?

Pre-roll ads are one of the most common ad placements in podcasting because they guarantee 100% listener exposure—everyone who starts your episode will hear the ad. Advertisers value this placement because it ensures their message reaches the entire audience, not just those who listen through the mid-point. Pre-roll ads typically command CPMs between $15-$25, making them a solid revenue source for podcasters. However, they can also be the most intrusive since they interrupt the listener's immediate engagement with your content. Many podcasters use pre-rolls for their own show promotions, cross-promoting other episodes or asking for reviews. The key to effective pre-roll ads is keeping them concise and ensuring they don't delay the actual content too long, as listeners may skip if the wait feels excessive. Some hosts read pre-rolls themselves to maintain authenticity, while others use pre-produced spots from advertisers.