Free template

Podcast planning template

A repeatable episode plan is what separates shows that quit at episode seven from shows that build an audience. Use this free podcast planning template to prep every episode in minutes — and see how PodSpark's AI fills in each section automatically.

1. Hook: answer "why listen now?"

The hook is the first thing a listener hears. It should promise a specific outcome or curiosity gap in the first minute. Write it like a headline, not an introduction.

• Weak: "Today we're talking about productivity."
• Strong: "The one calendar rule that saved me 10 hours last month — and why most founders do the opposite."

PodSpark's AI drafts three hook options for every episode based on the topic and target listener, so you can pick the strongest opener without staring at a blank page.

2. Segments: structure the conversation

Break the episode into 3–5 segments with clear transitions. A 30-minute interview might look like:

• Opening takeaway (2 min) — the big idea in one sentence.
• Backstory / context (5 min) — why the topic matters now.
• Main discussion (15 min) — 3–4 questions or case studies.
• Tools or tactics (5 min) — actionable recommendations.
• Wrap-up (3 min) — summarize and tee up the CTA.

PodSpark builds this outline from your topic, complete with time estimates and transition phrases, so you stay on track without scripting every word.

3. Research: cite before you record

Great episodes sound authoritative because the host did the homework up front. Your research brief should include:

• 2–3 key statistics or trends with sources.
• A short background note on any guest or company mentioned.
• 1–2 counter-arguments or common misconceptions to address.

PodSpark runs a live web search for each episode and returns cited research points, so you can verify facts before hitting record instead of pausing mid-conversation.

4. Questions: the safety net

Prepare 6–10 questions, but rank them. If the conversation flows, you may only use half. Include:

• Warm-up: easy, personal, sets the tone.
• Core: directly answers the episode promise.
• Curveball: a contrarian or unexpected angle.
• Closer: leaves the listener with a concrete takeaway.

PodSpark generates discussion questions tailored to your topic and audience, so you never run out of prompts during a slow stretch.

5. CTA: one action per episode

End with one clear call to action. Multiple CTAs confuse listeners; one CTA converts. Common choices:

• Subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.
• Download the free companion guide from the show notes.
• Join the newsletter for extended notes and links.

PodSpark also drafts social posts and email snippets from the episode, so your CTA continues working after the audio ends.