You hit record and lean in. Your guest is ready, the mic is hot, but a few minutes in it starts to drift.
Points get lost, stories wander, and you can feel it. The episode just isn’t… working.
Maybe it’s your first show and you want it to hit from the start. Maybe you’ve done a few and know it could flow sharper, hit harder, and hold attention better.
Podcast outline templates give you that control.
They keep interviews, solo shows, storytelling episodes, and coaching sessions tight, focused, and engaging.
In this guide, you’ll get good podcast outline examples, step-by-step instructions, and podcasting tips to make every episode smoother, sharper, and ready to grow your audience.
What Is a Podcast Outline?
A podcast outline is your roadmap for every episode. It keeps your key topics, questions, and stories in order so your podcasts flow naturally and keep listeners engaged.
It’s not a script. You don’t need to follow it word-for-word. It serves as your starting point instead of boxing you in.
Think of it like planning a road trip.
You know the stops you want to hit, the route you’ll take, and where you might pause for fuel or photos, but you can adjust as you go depending on traffic or scenery.
That’s the freedom a good outline gives you.
Podcast script vs podcast outline
Scripts and outlines are different tools for different situations. A script locks you into very specific words. An outline gives you a general idea to follow while letting you speak naturally.
Podcast script:
- Full podcast script is written out word-for-word
- Perfect if you need precise delivery
- Can feel stiff, especially in interviews
Podcast outline:
- Uses bullet points for key talking points, not exact wording
- Lets you respond naturally to guests or moments
- Helps the episode stay organized while letting the conversation breathe
Podcaster scripts control the words. Outlines control the flow. One feels rigid, the other keeps you in charge without slowing you down whenever you record your podcast.
Podcast script vs podcast outline templates
Templates make it easy to know what to cover and when. You get a structure that works without slowing down the conversation. Every episode flows, every point lands, and listeners stay hooked.
Here’s a side-by-side look at a podcast script versus an outline template for an interview:
| Podcast Script | Podcast Outline Template |
| Intro: “Welcome to the show. Today we have John Smith, author of [X]. John, tell us about your book.” | Intro: Host welcome, guest intro, episode topic overview |
| Question 1: “John, in chapter two you say… Can you explain why…” | Guest questions: 3-5 main questions with space for follow-ups |
| Follow-up: “And then later you write… How did that make you feel?” | Discussion points: Prompts to hit main stories and insights |
| CTA: “Check out John’s book at [website.com] and follow him on Twitter…” | CTA/Outro: Website, social links, teaser for next episode |
Podcast Outline Templates for 7 Formats
These seven free outline templates cover the main types of podcast episodes.
Each one is customizable so you can drop in your own topics, questions, and stories no matter what your podcast format is.
1. Interview podcast outline template PDF (30-45 mins)
Best for: Keeping your guest on track without making it feel scripted
This outline helps you guide the conversation while still leaving space for surprises.
1. Episode introduction [2-3 mins]
- Podcast name: [Insert podcast name]
- Episode title/hook: [Insert episode title or hook, e.g., “How to land your first coaching client without ads”]
- Quick context for listeners: [Insert why this episode matters]
2. Guest introduction [3-5 mins]
- Guest bio highlight: [Insert key credentials/experience]
- Interesting fact or story: [Insert something that sets up the conversation]
3. Main interview [20-30 mins]
- Core topic 1: [Insert topic]
– Supporting question: [Insert question] - Core topic 2: [Insert topic]
– Supporting question: [Insert question] - Core topic 3: [Insert topic]
– Guest story/example: [Insert story or anecdote] - Listener takeaway moment: [Insert actionable tip for listeners]
4. Rapid-fire/Fun segment [3-5 mins]
- Favorite tool/book/resource: [Insert answer]
- Best piece of advice ever received: [Insert answer]
- One thing they’d do differently if starting over: [Insert answer]
5. Wrap-up [2-3 mins]
- Key lesson recap: [Insert 1-2 main points]
- Guest CTA (website, social, freebie): [Insert CTA]
- Host CTA (subscribe, share, review, join newsletter): [Insert CTA]
2. Solo podcast outline template Google Docs (20-30 mins)
Best for: Rants, insights, or teaching moments
This template keeps you from wandering or repeating yourself halfway through your recording.
1. Episode introduction [1-2 mins]
- Podcast name: [Insert podcast name]
- Episode title/hook: [Insert episode title or hook]
- Quick context for listeners: [Insert why this episode matters]
2. Personal anecdote or story [3-5 mins]
- Story: [Insert personal story related to topic]
- Lesson/insight: [Insert takeaway]
3. Main content [15-20 mins]
- Point 1: [Insert topic/example]
- Point 2: [Insert topic/example]
- Point 3: [Insert topic/example]
4. Actionable tips/Advice [3-5 mins]
- Tip 1: [Insert advice or step]
- Tip 2: [Insert advice or step]
5. Wrap-up [2-3 mins]
- Key lesson recap: [Insert 1-2 main points]
- CTA (subscribe, review, social, newsletter): [Insert CTA]
3. Panel podcast outline (30-40 mins)
Best for: Hosts facilitating discussions with 2-4 experts or guests
Panels can get messy fast. Use this template to keep every voice balanced.
1. Episode introduction [2-3 mins]
- Podcast name: [Insert podcast name]
- Episode title/hook: [Insert episode title or hook]
- Context/topic overview: [Insert brief intro]
2. Panel introductions [3-5 mins]
- Guest 1: [Name, expertise]
- Guest 2: [Name, expertise]
- Guest 3: [Name, expertise]
3. Main discussion [20-25 mins]
- Topic 1: [Insert topic]
– Discussion prompts: [Insert questions for panel] - Topic 2: [Insert topic]
– Discussion prompts: [Insert questions for panel]
4. Audience/Listener questions [5-10 mins]
- Question 1: [Insert listener question]
- Question 2: [Insert listener question]
5. Wrap-up [2-3 mins]
- Key insights recap: [Insert main takeaways]
- Guest CTA: [Insert links, resources]
- Host CTA: [Subscribe, review, newsletter]
4. Storytelling outline template (20-35 mins)
Best for: Hosts creating narrative episodes, fiction or nonfiction stories
With this template, your story gives a strong start, middle, and ending punch.
1. Episode introduction [1-2 mins]
- Podcast name: [Insert podcast name]
- Episode title/hook: [Insert episode title or hook]
- Brief context/teaser: [Insert hook for story]
2. Scene/Chapter 1 [5-7 mins]
- Setting/characters: [Insert details]
- Event/conflict: [Insert plot point]
3. Scene/Chapter 2 [5-7 mins]
- Event/turning point: [Insert plot point]
- Dialogue/description: [Insert notes]
4. Scene/Chapter 3 [5-7 mins]
- Climax/resolution: [Insert details]
- Lesson/takeaway: [Insert message for listeners]
5. Wrap-up [2-3 mins]
- Key story recap: [Insert summary]
- CTA (subscribe, review, newsletter): [Insert CTA]
5. Coaching or advice podcast outline template (20-30 mins)
Best for: Hosts giving actionable guidance, tips, or coaching advice
This template is perfect for giving listeners practical steps without overwhelming them.
1. Episode introduction [1-2 mins]
- Podcast name: [Insert podcast name]
- Episode title/hook: [Insert episode title]
- Quick context: [Insert why episode matters]
2. Problem/Pain point [3-5 mins]
- Describe challenge: [Insert common issue for audience]
- Personal anecdote/story: [Insert example]
3. Advice/Coaching steps [10-15 mins]
- Step 1: [Insert actionable tip]
- Step 2: [Insert actionable tip]
- Step 3: [Insert actionable tip]
4. Quick Wins / Action Items [3-5 mins]
- Action 1: [Insert actionable task]
- Action 2: [Insert actionable task]
5. Wrap-up [2-3 mins]
- Key lesson recap: [Insert main points]
- CTA (subscribe, review, social): [Insert CTA]
6. Educational or how-to podcast outline template (20-30 mins)
Best for: Hosts delivering tutorials, lessons, or step-by-step guides
Teaching works best in steps. This template breaks complex topics into clear, digestible chunks.
1. Episode introduction [1-2 mins]
- Podcast name: [Insert podcast name]
- Episode title/hook: [Insert episode title]
- Context / why it matters: [Insert brief explanation]
2. Step 1 [3-5 mins]
- Topic/task: [Insert task]
- Example/demo: [Insert example]
3. Step 2 [3-5 mins]
- Topic/task: [Insert task]
- Example/demo: [Insert example]
4. Step 3 [3-5 mins]
- Topic/task: [Insert task]
- Example/demo: [Insert example]
5. Key takeaways/Tips [2-3 mins]
- Tip 1: [Insert tip]
- Tip 2: [Insert tip]
- CTA: [Subscribe, share, review]
7. Hybrid podcast outline example (30-45 mins)
Best for: Hosts combining multiple formats (interview, solo, storytelling)
Use this as a flexible framework when creating a podcast episode outline. This template keeps the flow smooth and controlled.
1. Episode introduction [2-3 mins]
- Podcast name: [Insert podcast name]
- Episode title/hook: [Insert episode title]
- Format notes: [Solo, guest, or hybrid elements]
2. Segment 1 [5-7 mins]
- Content type: [Interview / Story / Solo]
- Topic/questions/story points: [Insert details]
3. Segment 2 [10-15 mins]
- Content type: [Insert type]
- Topic/questions/story points: [Insert details]
4. Segment 3 [10-15 mins]
- Content type: [Insert type]
- Topic/questions/story points: [Insert details]
5. Wrap-up [2-3 mins]
- Key points recap: [Insert highlights]
- CTA: [Subscribe, review, social, newsletter]
How to Outline a Podcast: Step-by-Step Guide
A great podcast outline puts you in control. It shows you what to hit, when to hit it, and where to leave space to respond naturally.
Here’s a full guide on what works to create an outline, whether you’re doing interviews with a co-host, solo episodes, or storytelling shows.
- Brainstorm your episode goal: Pick one clear outcome for your listeners. For example, “Give them 3 ways to speak confidently on stage this week.”
- Break the episode into segments: Split your episode into intro, main content, stories, recap, and outro. A 30-minute interview might be a 2-minute intro, 15-minute main content, 8-minute stories, and 5-minute outro.
- Map your talking points: List three to five key questions for guests or points for solo shows. Include examples or anecdotes to illustrate each point.
- Add timing notes: Give each segment a rough length. It keeps you moving and stops the episode from dragging.
- Plan transitions: Jot down phrases or prompts to shift between segments smoothly between co-hosts or guests. Example: “That story highlights a lesson you can try this week.”
- Include listener prompts: Drop in questions or small challenges to pull your audience in. Example: “Which habit drains your energy and what can you fix this week?”
- Review and refine: Run through your outline and tweak anything that feels off. Check that everything flows to make your episode sound more professional.
Talks tip: Check out these podcast script templates if you need help on how to start a podcast script.
10 Common mistakes to avoid when creating a podcast outline
Even seasoned hosts slip up. These are podcast content strategy mistakes that make episodes feel messy, confusing, or amateur. Easy to prevent if you know what to watch for with your podcasting process.
- Weak or missing episode intros: A bland or confusing intro loses listeners fast. Set the tone, hook your audience, and give context right away. Check out podcast intro examples and podcast segment ideas for inspiration.
- Not tailoring for your format: Using the same structure for solo, interview, or panel episodes can feel off. Adjust your outline to fit the style.
- Ignoring the guest’s flow: Leaving no space for stories or tangents kills natural conversation.
- Missing the episode arc: Episodes without a clear beginning, middle, and end feel flat. Plan a mini-journey for your listeners.
- Using vague talking points: Generic prompts like “Ask about their book” don’t create engaging conversation. Be specific and actionable.
- No contingency plan: Failing to account for silence, tangents, or tech hiccups leaves you scrambling in the middle of your recording sessions.
- Neglecting prep for key examples: Without stories or illustrations, points land weakly. Plan a few vivid examples for each main point to keep you on track.
- Forgetting listener context: Assuming everyone knows the backstory or inside joke loses new listeners. Briefly set the scene.
- Skipping CTA placement: Not planning where to add calls to action or next steps costs potential engagement.
- Overcomplicating the outline: Making it too detailed or rigid turns the guide into a chore instead of a tool. Keeping it lean and flexible helps with optimizing your podcast workflow.
Not sure how long a podcast should be? Read my full guide here.
Podcast Outro Template
A strong outro wraps up your episode cleanly, reinforces your message, and nudges listeners to collaborate and take the next step.
Podcast Outro Template [1-2 mins]
- Thank your listeners: [Insert personalized message, e.g., “Thanks for tuning in, you’ve been awesome”]
- Recap key points/guest highlights: [Insert brief summary]
- Call-to-action: [Subscribe, leave a review, follow on social, visit website, etc.]
- Tease next episode: [Insert hint or topic to keep listeners coming back]
- Closing phrase/music: [Insert signature line or outro music cue]
3 Podcast outro examples
The outro is your last impression. How you end a podcast should leave listeners satisfied, remind them what they learned, and give them a clear next step without feeling forced.
Here are three fill-in-the-blank podcast outro examples for different podcast formats:
1. Interview podcast:
“Thanks for listening to [Podcast Name].
Today, [Guest Name] shared [Insert main insight or story], giving you practical steps to [Insert outcome].
If this episode gave you value, hit subscribe on [Platform] and leave a review to help others find it.
Next week, we’ll chat with [Next Guest Name] about [Next Topic], so mark your calendar.
Catch you then, [Podcast Name]. [Cue outro music]”
2. Solo podcast:
“That wraps up today’s episode of [Podcast Name].
We explored [Insert main points] and how you can apply them immediately.
If you found this helpful, subscribe on [Platform] and share your thoughts on [Social/Website].
Next episode, I’ll dive into [Next Topic] with some actionable tips you won’t want to miss.
Thanks for tuning in, [Podcast Name]. [Cue outro music]”
3. Educational/How-to podcast:
“Thanks for tuning in to [Podcast Name].
Today we walked through [Insert how-to topic] with actionable steps like [Step 1/Step 2/Step 3].
If you learned something new, subscribe on [Platform] and leave a review to help others discover the show.
Next episode, we’ll cover [Next Lesson/Topic] and add more strategies you can use right away.
See you then, [Podcast Name]. [Cue outro music]”
The Playbook Behind Every Viral Episode
If your episodes feel messy or hit-and-miss, it’s time for a change.
Podcast outline templates give you the structure to run episodes without guessing what comes next. They save time, keep your content sharp, and make it easier to deliver a show your audience actually looks forward to.
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