Should you write a podcast script?

“Should I script my podcast?”

This is one of the most common questions I hear from novice podcasters. My answer: Sure, script your intro and outro, but don’t write down your whole podcast word for word, unless you are 100% confident in your skills as a voice performer. Think first of the most effective way to tell your story. Should it be conversational or highly polished?

I’ve written and spoken more extensively on this topic in these posts:

• How to write a podcast script (blog post)
• How to read a podcast script and not sound like you’re reading (blog post)
• Faking it: How to read a podcast script and sound natural (audio)

What do you think? If you’re a podcaster, do you script yourself?

NOTE: If you want to up your podcasting game, register for my free webinar on June 1, 2011: Take your podcast to the next level.

 

 

Comments

[James Bair]

I have never done a podcast. However, I have listened to many podcasts. It seems that the skill levels of the speakers vary greatly. Some people are very gifted and have that ability to flow naturally without a script. Others are not as skilled and don't have that ability speak without a script. Whether you should use a script or not depends on your skills and confidence level. There is no right way or wrong way to do it, it's whatever suits you best.

James Bair
Best iPod docking station

[custom logo design]

I agree with you about how teens communicate, Donna. But it's not just teens. Many people in their mid-20s have also abandoned e-mail in exchange for facebook.
The lack of written addresses and phone numbers isn't necessarily a bad thing, either.

[Calories in Banana]

I agree with you on how to communicate with a teenager, Donna. It's not just teenagers. Many of their mid-20s have dropped an e-mail exchange on Facebook.
Lack of written addresses and phone numbers are not necessarily a bad thing, either.

[ccna training]

I have never done this. Thanks to you. Now, I found it necessary. I should write one now!