These concise summaries give listeners a glimpse into an episode’s content. They include key topics, guest information, timestamps for significant points in the show and relevant links. They are essential for both engaging listeners and improving the podcast’s SEO. It’s important that the show notes convey this information in a way that is tonally coherent with the show. Audio is a medium that isn’t great at effectively presenting things like URLs or lots of detailed data and numbers. It’s better to reference these in the show notes. It can also give advertisers or sponsors an extra boost by mentioning them here as well.
Show notes
From transcript & summary to credits & sources
Tips & Tricks
Show notes are where you can summarize the episode topic, share highlights and give the names of your guests. But show notes aren’t a word-for-word recounting of an episode – save that for your transcript. Show notes offer the opportunity to promote older episodes. Most podcasts are centered around a specific topic so referencing previously published episodes is bound to happen. Including a link to past content helps both current and new listeners access your back catalog.Burning Question
Should I include links? Yes. It’s a good idea to include links to sites/articles you referred to in the show and info on further reading. If you’re dealing with a sensitive or triggering topic, you can tell listeners where they can go to get help and support. Don’t forget to include this info on your social media platforms.Common Mistake
Not including a call to action. This is a missed opportunity. Show notes can include a request to subscribe, leave a review, share with a friend or sign up to your email list. Just don’t overwhelm listeners with too many CTAs.Links
- Article: How To Write Better Podcast Show Notes (With 3 Templates)
- Video: Are Your Podcast Show Notes Helping or Hurting?
- Article: The Ultimate Guide to Podcast Show Notes
TIPS from OUR Network
- Structure the show notes with headlines, subheads and bullet points. Try to formulate short sentences.
- Show notes are a place for key takeaways and memorable statements made by guests.