Creating Podcast Intros

There are two types of Podcast Intros: Show Intros and Episode Intros.

The difference between a podcast show intro and a podcast episode intro lies in their purpose, content, and usage within the podcast structure.

Here’s a breakdown:

Podcast 'Show' Intro:

• Purpose: Establishes the identity and brand of the entire podcast series.
• Content: Typically includes the podcast’s name, a brief description of the show’s theme or purpose, the host’s name, and any relevant tagline or music that is associated with the show.
• Usage: Used at the beginning of every episode to remind listeners of the show they are tuning into and to attract new listeners by giving them a quick overview of what to expect from the series as a whole.
• Run-Time: The podcast Show Intro is typically uploaded to Apple/Spotify/Etc as Episode 1 (and labeled as the Podcast Show Intro when uploading) and can have a run time anywhere from 2 to 6 minutes depending on how much information you explain to the listener on what the show will be about.
• Comparison: I think of the Show Intro as similar to a movie trailer that we see or the information on the back of a Book that provides the audience with information about what the show will be about and get them excited to tune in and listen.
• CTA: A CTA is a “Call to Action”. It is important to let the listener know what would be helpful for you. In this case - ask the listener to subscribe to the show and where they can find you on social media or website as well.

Podcast 'Episode' Intro:

• Purpose: Introduces the specific episode’s content and sets the stage for what will be discussed or presented in that particular episode.
• Content: Often includes the episode title, a summary of the episode’s topic, any special guests that will appear, and highlights of what listeners can expect in this episode. It may also include a brief recap of the previous episode if relevant.
• Usage: Used at the start of each episode to give context and a preview of the episode’s content, helping to engage listeners right from the beginning and provide clarity on what the episode will cover.
• Required? No, Adding Pre-recorded podcast episode intros are NOT required. It is a stylistic and formatting decision that you should make depending on how you want your show structured.

  A. If you want to have a pre-recorded intro that you add to every episode you can do that.

  B. If you want to pre-record a unique intro for every episode you can do that

  C. or if you wish to do your intros “Live” as you record the episode so that you do not need to do any work in post production and editing you can do that as well.

  
  

• Run-Time: Over time the opening podcast intros have been getting shorter and shorter. Right now, listeners seem to want to get into the podcasts quicker and just start enjoying the content of the podcast without a long episode intro. For now I would recommend making your intros range from 20 - 60 seconds in total (if you choose to do a pre-recorded intro). There are some exceptions to this rule that I have seen work very well and that is when the Host records a unique intro for every episode and then the host provides the listener with notes about the podcast to come. So the host says “In todays episode i spoke with [NAME] and we cover topics like [topic list] and gives the listener a quick rundown on what is to come. The host then can also add some more information on upcoming episodes and guests and do some “house keeping” announcements of any other information or news that they wish to share with the listeners.

Example of Each:

Podcast Show Intro: "Welcome to 'Kids’ Creative Corner,' the podcast where young minds explore their creativity and learn new skills. Hosted by [Host’s Name], this show brings you inspiring stories and practical tips from creative experts. Join us every week for a fun and educational journey. Let’s get creative together!"

Podcast Episode Intro: "In today’s episode of 'Kids’ Creative Corner,' we’re diving into the world of podcasting! We have a special guest, [Guest’s Name], who will share tips on how to start your own podcast. We’ll also hear from some of our young podcasters about their experiences and challenges. Stay tuned for an exciting episode filled with inspiration and practical advice."

Your podcasts show intro is about the overall podcast and its ongoing theme, while the episode intro focuses on the specifics of the current episode.

For Club Podcasts that have many hosts we suggest checking out the Santa Fe Teen Center Podcast and how they created a podcast that had many kids collaborating together to produce a podcast show: