Free Podcast Script Template (2025)
Structure your interviews and episodes with this professional script template.
Podcast Show Script
What is a podcast script template? (And why you need one)
A podcast script template is a structured document that outlines the flow and content of your podcast episode. It includes sections for your intro, main content, transitions, ad reads, and outro, with placeholders and prompts to guide you through recording. Think of it as a roadmap that keeps your episode organized and on track.
The template typically includes:
- Timing notes - How long each section should take
- Talking points or questions - Key topics to cover
- Music cues - Where to add intro, transition, or background music
- Stage directions - Reminders for pauses, emphasis, or special delivery
For interview shows, it might include guest introduction scripts, question lists, and wrap-up segments. For solo shows, it might have bullet points for each topic, transitions between ideas, and call-to-action reminders.
A script template doesn't have to be word-for-word. Many podcasters use it as an outline with key points and prompts rather than a full script to read verbatim. This approach keeps the conversation natural while ensuring you cover everything you planned and maintain good pacing.
Why do podcasters need one?
A script template helps you stay organized and on track during recording. Without structure, episodes can meander, important points can be forgotten, and timing can get out of control. A template ensures you cover everything you planned and helps you maintain consistent episode length and pacing.
For interview shows, a script template is especially valuable. It helps you:
- Prepare thoughtful questions
- Structure the conversation logically
- Ensure you get the information you need from your guest
- Manage time effectively
A template also makes editing easier. When you have a clear structure, you know where segments begin and end, making it easier to cut, rearrange, or add content during post-production. This can significantly reduce editing time and improve the final product.
Consistency is another benefit. When you use the same template structure for each episode, your show develops a recognizable rhythm that listeners appreciate. They know what to expect, and you can focus on content rather than figuring out the structure each time.
What happens if you don't have one?
Without a script template, episodes can feel disorganized and unfocused. You might:
- Forget to cover important points
- Struggle with transitions
- Let conversations meander without clear direction
- Have inconsistent episode lengths
Time management becomes difficult without structure. Episodes might run too long or too short, and you might spend too much time on one topic while rushing through others. This inconsistency can frustrate listeners who expect a certain episode length and pacing.
Editing becomes more challenging without a clear structure. When you don't have defined segments, it's harder to know where to make cuts, how to rearrange content, or where to add music or transitions. This can lead to longer editing times and a less polished final product.
For interview shows, lack of preparation can lead to awkward conversations. Without a script template, you might ask repetitive questions, miss opportunities to dive deeper, or struggle to wrap up the conversation effectively.
How to use this template
Step 1: Download the template
Choose Google Docs for easy editing and collaboration, or PDF for printing. The template includes sections for intro, main content, transitions, ad reads, and outro.
Step 2: Customize for your episode
Fill in your episode title, guest name (if applicable), and key talking points. For interview shows, add your questions in the order you want to ask them. For solo shows, add bullet points for each topic you want to cover.
Step 3: Add timing notes
Estimate how long each section should take, and note your target total episode length. During recording, you can refer to these notes to ensure you're pacing yourself correctly.
Step 4: Include music cues and stage directions
Note where you want to add intro music, transition music, or background music. Add reminders for pauses, emphasis, or special delivery. These notes help you create a more polished episode.
Step 5: Prepare introductions and wrap-ups
For interview shows, write out how you'll introduce the guest (their name, background, why they're on the show) and how you'll close the interview (summary, where to find them, call to action). Having these prepared helps you sound professional.
Step 6: Use as a guide, not a script
Don't feel like you need to read it word-for-word. Instead, use it to stay on track, remember key points, and maintain good pacing. The goal is to sound natural while staying organized.
Structure your episodes with confidence
Download the podcast script template and start creating more organized episodes today.