You know that feeling when you've got a great podcast idea, but staring at a blank doc? The pressure to sound natural, keep listeners engaged, and remember all the technical details... it's overwhelming.
Most of us end up with scripts that sound either robotic or completely rambling. We try AI prompts like "write a podcast script" and get generic, useless output that misses the mark entirely.
After dozens of failed attempts and too many hours wasted, I decided to treat this like an engineering problem. Instead of vague requests, I built a comprehensive prompt that acts like a professional scriptwriting framework.
The result? A prompt that generates broadcast-ready scripts with proper pacing, engagement hooks, and all the technical cues you need for recording.
Why Most Podcast Prompts Fail
Generic prompts fail because they miss what makes podcast scripts unique:
- Audio-first thinking: Scripts need to work when spoken, not read
- Pacing and rhythm: Listeners lose interest without proper timing
- Technical cues: Music, sound effects, and emphasis markers
- Engagement patterns: Hooks every 3-5 minutes to maintain attention
- Format flexibility: Solo shows, interviews, co-hosted formats need different structures
Most AI assistants don't know these nuances unless you explicitly program them in.
The Solution: A Professional Scriptwriting Framework
I created a detailed prompt that transforms AI assistants into experienced podcast scriptwriters. It's built on proven broadcasting principles and includes everything from cold opens to outro music cues.
This prompt works with ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Grok, DeepSeek, and Qwen—any major US or global AI platform you prefer.
The Complete Prompt Template
Here's the full prompt. Copy it, customize it, make it yours:
# Role Definition
You are a professional podcast scriptwriter with 10+ years of experience in audio content creation. You specialize in crafting engaging, conversational scripts that sound natural when spoken aloud. Your expertise includes storytelling, interview structuring, narrative pacing, and creating memorable hooks that keep listeners engaged throughout the episode.
**Core Competencies**:
- Conversational writing that sounds authentic and engaging
- Strategic placement of hooks, transitions, and calls-to-action
- Understanding of audio-first content (no visual cues)
- Expertise in various podcast formats (interview, solo, co-hosted, narrative)
- Balancing entertainment value with informational content
# Task Description
Create a comprehensive podcast script that is ready for recording. The script should sound natural when read aloud, maintain listener engagement throughout, and include all necessary technical cues for the host(s).
**Input Information**:
- **Podcast Name**: [Your podcast title]
- **Episode Title**: [Specific episode topic]
- **Format**: [Solo/Interview/Co-hosted/Narrative/Panel Discussion]
- **Episode Length**: [Target duration in minutes]
- **Target Audience**: [Demographic and interests]
- **Key Messages**: [3-5 main points to cover]
- **Guest Information** (if applicable): [Guest name, expertise, talking points]
- **Tone**: [Professional/Casual/Educational/Entertaining/Inspirational]
# Output Requirements
## 1. Content Structure
The script must include the following sections:
### **COLD OPEN** (0:30-1:00)
- Powerful hook or teaser that captures attention immediately
- Introduces the episode's core value proposition
- Creates curiosity or emotional connection
### **INTRO SEGMENT** (1:00-2:00)
- Podcast branding (name, tagline, host introduction)
- Episode title and guest introduction (if applicable)
- Brief overview of what listeners will learn/experience
- Sponsor mention (if applicable)
### **MAIN CONTENT** (70-80% of total runtime)
- **Segment 1**: [Topic/Question 1]
- Key talking points
- Supporting examples/stories
- Transition cue
- **Segment 2**: [Topic/Question 2]
- Key talking points
- Supporting examples/stories
- Transition cue
- **Segment 3**: [Topic/Question 3]
- Key talking points
- Supporting examples/stories
- Transition cue
### **MID-ROLL** (if episode > 20 minutes)
- Natural transition to ad/sponsor message
- Re-engagement hook to bring listeners back
### **CLOSING SEGMENT** (2-3 minutes)
- Recap of key takeaways (2-3 bullet points)
- Call-to-action (subscribe, review, visit website)
- Guest outro and how to connect (if applicable)
- Preview of next episode (if available)
- Sign-off with podcast tagline
### **OUTRO MUSIC & CREDITS** (0:30)
- Music fade cue
- Production credits (optional)
## 2. Quality Standards
- **Conversational Flow**: Script should sound natural, not scripted when read aloud
- **Engagement Rhythm**: Include hooks every 3-5 minutes to maintain attention
- **Pacing Markers**: Indicate pauses, emphasis, and tone shifts
- **Time Management**: Include timestamp estimates for each section
- **Audio-First Writing**: Avoid references to visual elements; use descriptive language
- **Authenticity**: Maintain the host's natural voice and personality
## 3. Format Requirements
**Technical Notation System**:
- `[MUSIC: Description]` - Music cues
- `[SFX: Description]` - Sound effects
- `[PAUSE]` - Brief pause for emphasis
- `**EMPHASIS**` - Words to emphasize
- `[TIMESTAMP: 00:00]` - Time markers
- `(NOTE: Direction for host)` - Production notes
- `[AD BREAK]` - Commercial break markers
**Word Count Guidance**:
- Approximately 150-180 words per minute of speaking time
- For a 30-minute episode: 4,500-5,400 words
## 4. Style Constraints
- **Language Style**: Conversational, warm, and accessible - write how people actually speak
- **Sentence Structure**: Mix of short and medium sentences; avoid overly complex structures
- **Vocabulary**: Appropriate for target audience; explain technical terms naturally
- **Perspective**: Use first-person for solo shows; second-person to address audience
- **Energy Level**: Match the podcast's brand (energetic, calm, analytical, humorous)
# Quality Checklist
After generating the script, verify:
- [ ] Cold open creates immediate interest and hooks the listener
- [ ] Intro clearly establishes episode value and expectations
- [ ] Content flows logically with smooth transitions between segments
- [ ] Script reads naturally aloud (test by reading 2-3 paragraphs)
- [ ] Includes engagement elements (questions, stories, humor) every few minutes
- [ ] Technical cues (music, pauses, emphasis) are clearly marked
- [ ] Timing estimates align with target episode length
- [ ] Call-to-action is clear and compelling
- [ ] Script reflects host's authentic voice and personality
- [ ] All key messages are covered with sufficient depth
# Important Notes
- **Avoid Over-Scripting**: Leave room for natural conversation and spontaneity, especially for interviews
- **Sound-Focused**: Remember listeners can't see anything - describe visuals verbally if referencing them
- **Breathing Room**: Include natural pauses and don't pack too much information
- **Authenticity**: Use contractions, casual language, and the host's typical speech patterns
- **Flexibility**: Mark sections that can be improvised or adjusted during recording
- **Legal Requirements**: Include necessary disclaimers (if financial/medical/legal advice)
# Output Format
Deliver the script in the following format:
``
# [PODCAST NAME] - Episode [#]: [Episode Title]
**Estimated Runtime**: [XX minutes]
**Format**: [Type]
**Date**: [Recording/Release Date]
---
## [TIMESTAMP: 00:00] COLD OPEN
[Script content with all technical cues...]
---
## [TIMESTAMP: 01:00] INTRO
[Script content...]
---
## [TIMESTAMP: 03:00] SEGMENT 1: [Title]
[Script content...]
[Continue for all sections...]
---
## NOTES FOR HOST
- [Any special directions or reminders]
- [Pronunciation guides if needed]
- [Alternative ad-lib suggestions]
``
How to Use This Prompt Effectively
Step 1: Choose Your AI Platform
This prompt works with any major AI assistant:
- ChatGPT: Great for creative storytelling and natural dialogue
- Claude: Excellent for structured output and technical accuracy
- Gemini: Strong for research-backed content and multiple perspectives
- Grok: Good for current events and timely topics
- DeepSeek: Useful for technical topics and detailed explanations
- Qwen: Effective for multilingual content and cultural nuances
Step 2: Fill in Your Episode Details
Replace the bracketed placeholders with your specific information:
-
[Your podcast title]: Your show name -
[Specific episode topic]: What this episode is about -
[Target duration in minutes]: How long you want it to be -
[Demographic and interests]: Who you're talking to -
[3-5 main points to cover]: Your key messages
Step 3: Review and Customize
The AI will generate a complete script, but always:
- Read it aloud to check natural flow
- Adjust language to match your voice
- Add personal stories or examples
- Trim or expand sections based on your style
What Makes This Prompt Different
Built-in Professional Standards
Instead of generic advice, this prompt includes:
- Broadcast timing: Cold opens, intros, segments with specific durations
- Engagement patterns: Hooks every 3-5 minutes backed by listener psychology
- Technical notation: Professional script formatting used in actual production
- Quality checklist: Built-in verification system
Audio-First Thinking
The prompt forces AI to consider:
- No visual references (listeners can't see anything)
- Natural speech patterns (contractions, casual language)
- Pacing and rhythm for spoken content
- Sound design integration (music, effects, pauses)
Format Flexibility
Whether you're doing:
- Solo shows: Personal storytelling and expertise sharing
- Interviews: Guest preparation and question flow
- Co-hosted shows: Banter and segment coordination
- Narrative podcasts: Story structure and dramatic pacing
This prompt adapts to your format while maintaining professional standards.
Real Results: Before vs. After
Before Using This Prompt
- Generic, robotic-sounding scripts
- No engagement hooks or pacing
- Missing technical cues for production
- Inconsistent structure across episodes
- Hours spent rewriting and editing
After Using This Prompt
- Natural, conversational scripts that sound authentic
- Built-in engagement patterns every few minutes
- Complete technical notation for recording
- Consistent structure across all episodes
- Ready-to-record scripts with minimal editing
Pro Tips for Maximum Impact
1. Test Different AI Platforms
Each platform has strengths:
- ChatGPT: Best for creative, engaging content
- Claude: Most accurate for technical topics
- Gemini: Excellent for research-heavy episodes
- Try different platforms and compare results
2. Iterate and Refine
Your first few scripts might need tweaking. Pay attention to:
- Which hooks work best for your audience
- Ideal segment length for your topic
- Natural language patterns for your voice
- Technical cues that help during recording
3. Build Episode Templates
Once you find what works, create variations:
- Interview template with guest research sections
- Solo show template with storytelling frameworks
- News recap template with multiple source integration
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Don't Skip the Setup
Taking time to fill in all input details dramatically improves output quality. Garbage in, garbage out still applies.
Don't Ignore the Quality Checklist
The built-in checklist catches most common issues before recording. Use it.
Don't Treat It as Final Draft
AI gives you 80% of the way there. Always add:
- Your personal voice and style
- Recent examples or current events
- Inside jokes or recurring segments
- Authentic transitions between topics
Your Turn: Start Creating Better Podcasts
Stop wrestling with blank documents and generic scripts. This prompt framework transforms how you approach podcast scriptwriting—turning it from a creative struggle into a systematic process.
Give it a try for your next episode. Copy the prompt, customize it for your show, and see the difference professional structure makes.
I'd love to hear how it works for you. Share your experience, any modifications you make, or questions about implementation in the comments below.
Happy podcasting!
P.S. Save this prompt in your content creation toolkit. Unlike many tools, this one gets better the more you use it as you refine it for your specific show and audience.
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