While many podcasts have a loose, conversational structure, scripting at least some portions of your non-fiction podcast can help make your show more compelling and informative. Here’s a guide.
Pros and Cons of Scripting a Podcast
Should you take the time to script non-fiction podcast episodes? Here are some potential pros and cons to weigh:
Pros:
- Scripting helps organize research into a compelling narrative
- Following a script makes it easier to stick to logical flow and structure
- Scripts ensure important facts/quotes aren’t forgotten
- Writing scripted intros and outros sound more professional
- Scripts reduce rambling and off-topic tangents
Cons:
- Script writing is time consuming
- Scripts can sound stilted if read verbatim
- Spontaneity and conversational tone may be lost
- Speakers may sound robotic or awkward reading a script
- Scripting limits ability to adapt and be flexible during recording
Research Extensively
The foundation of any compelling non-fiction podcast is thorough research. Spend ample time immersing yourself in books, news articles, academic papers, and any other relevant sources to make sure you have a deep understanding of the topic. Take detailed notes and keep track of key facts, statistics, quotes, and anecdotes that help support your narrative. The more research you do upfront, the easier it will be to script a logical and engaging episode.
Outline the Structure
With your research fresh in mind, sketch out the structure for your podcast episode. Most non-fiction podcasts follow a similar flow:
- Brief intro explaining the topic and why it matters
- Overview of when this topic emerged historically
- Key developments related to the topic over time
- Profile of 1-2 central figures tied to the topic
- Present-day landscape of the issue
- What the future may hold and final lessons learned
This is just a sample – feel free to get creative with your structure! Outlining the narrative flow in advance provides an episode roadmap when you sit down to write the script.
Write a First Draft Script
Now it’s time to start scripting. Aim to write conversationally, while working in facts, quotes, and colorful descriptions to flesh out the narrative. Occasionally imagine yourself speaking the words out loud to ensure it sounds natural. Resist the urge to pack in too much; remember the listener can only absorb so much info at once.
When writing the script, consider these tips:
- Hook the listener in the first 60 seconds with an intriguing fact or question
- Use scene-setting to help the audience visualize people and places
- Employ dialogue sparingly to break up stretches of narration
- Share funny, poignant or surprising anecdotes to bring the story to life
- Use pauses, vocal inflection and sound effects to add color
- Close each section with a teaser to compel listeners to keep tuning in
A general rule of thumb is to write scripts between 1,500 – 2,500 words to fill a 30-45 minute podcast episode.
Refine the Script
With a first draft complete, it’s time to refine the script. Read it aloud and edit sections that feel stiff or awkward. Look for opportunities to strengthen transitions from one topic to the next. Check that the story flows logically and engagingly from beginning to end. You can also enlist friends to read the draft script and provide feedback.
The refinement process will likely involve some ruthless editing. Be prepared to cut interesting but non-essential facts and anecdotes for the sake of pacing and clarity. You can always save unused script portions for future episodes.
Add Finishing Touches
With the script tightly polished, consider adding final touches like:
- Music beds to transition between sections
- Sound effects to punch up key moments
- Audio clips from interviews or archival tapes
- Introduction of interview guests
- Promotion of sponsors/ads
These layers of sound design help immerse listeners and break up narration. Just be sure sound effects don’t distract from the educational substance at the episode’s core.
Record the Episode!
Now the fun part – it’s time to record your scripted podcast episode! Read your script aloud conversationally, imagining you’re speaking to a friend. Don’t worry about nailing the script word-for-word; focus on sounding natural and avoiding excessive “umms.”
Edit out lengthy pauses or mistakes and splice together the best takes. Weave in your pre-loaded music, sound effects and audio clips. Add an upbeat intro and outro. Et voila – your scripted podcast episode is ready to share with the world!
The Podcasting Possibilities
In general, light scripting strikes the right balance for many podcasters. Outline key sections and script intros/outros, but have natural discussions during the show’s body.
Let the dialogue flow freely, and improvise reacting to guests and topics raised. This blend of scripting and improvisation plays to the strengths of both approaches.
We’ve only scratched the surface for producing a compelling, scripted non-fiction podcast. The podcasting world is bursting with potential for creative educational storytelling. So do your homework, outline engaging episodes, write lively scripts, and hit record on a podcast that informs and inspires. Your microphone awaits!
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