If you’re struggling to record your episodes because you never seem to know what to say or you’re having difficulty staying on track while recording, you’ve probably considered scripting your episodes. Scripting your podcast is a very attractive and tempting method of prepping for and recording better, more organized podcast episodes — especially if you’re a beginner podcaster.

But scripting your podcast can also limit your creativity and stunt the connection between you and your audience—and there might be better ways to achieve the organization and clarity you’re looking for.

So, before you decide to officially script your podcast, read this:

What Does it Mean to Script Your Podcast Episodes?

Scripting your podcast is essentially writing down everything you want to say word-for-word in your episode before recording. A script includes all shoutouts to your programs and offers, your introduction and conclusion for the episode, and any and every story you want to mention. 

A podcast script is the same as one for any other platform or media, like video, but for podcasting.

The Pros and Cons of Using a Script

I’m not fully against scripting your podcast episodes — mainly because I recognize how much easier it can make podcasting for some podcasters. You’re never left wondering what to say next or stumbling over your words because you’ve already planned out what you want to say and when.

That doesn’t mean I’m 100% for it, either. Scripting your episodes can restrict your creativity and potentially dampen the connection between you and your audience as you’re less likely to share those nurturing side stories or ‘blurbs’ that make you you.

Here are the facts behind using a script:

The Pros of Scripting

Thanks to telling a clearer story, your episodes are more organized, the recording process is more efficient, and less editing is required. Scripting often leads to a more professional, formal tone and has fewer “detours” when getting to your main idea, making it ideal for an audience that needs you to get straight to the point.

The Cons of Scripting

Being more professional and formal can quickly lead to sounding monotonous and, well, scripted. Scripts also restrict your opportunity to adlib and get creative with your content, requiring more time spent on your episode before recording. 

Alternatives to Scripting Your Podcast

Scripting isn’t the only way to approach your episodes more organized and professionally; you can also outline or adlib, with each offering a little less structure than the one before.

Adlibbing your podcast episode based on a general idea or summary still offers some organization — as in, you’re likely to stay on your main idea. Still, the delivery tends to be all over the place. 

Outlines are the perfect in-between for adlibbing and scripting. They offer a more organized structure and flow like scripting but allow you to have creative freedom to add your personality and story-telling when you feel it’s right.

Should You Script Your Podcast Episodes?

It’s up to you! Every podcast and podcaster is different; you should find what works best for you in your season. For example, you might feel more comfortable following a script for your first few episodes but build enough confidence to use an outline in the next one.

Still, I wouldn’t recommend recording an episode without at least having an outline for guidance. This will help you stay on track during your recording and prevent listeners from becoming lost or confused in your content. Remember, it’s all about your listener’s experience — whatever provides the best experience is what you should do (if you can).

Whatever you choose to do now won’t be required for you to do forever, so don’t feel pressured if you want to temporarily test it out. Are you ready to start your podcast and grow your show? Download my free Podcast Starter Guide for all the best tips, tricks, and resources → Download now.