Using popular podcasts as a framework, the most common and popular sections of a podcast typically include the following:
1. Introduction
- What Happens: A brief introduction that welcomes listeners and sets the tone for the episode. It often includes music, a host greeting, and a teaser for what’s coming up in the episode.
- Purpose: To hook listeners and provide context for the episode’s content.
- Example: The Daily by The New York Times starts with a brief summary of the day’s topic and music.
2. Host Banter / Personal Update
- What Happens: Casual conversation between hosts or a solo host sharing personal stories, updates, or lighthearted commentary. Helps to build a connection with the audience.
- Purpose: To humanize the hosts and make the podcast feel more intimate.
- Example: Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard includes casual banter between Dax and his co-host Monica Padman before jumping into the main interview.
3. Main Content / Interview / Discussion
- What Happens: The core of the podcast, where hosts dive into the episode’s main theme. This can be an interview, topic exploration, storytelling, or expert discussion.
- Purpose: To deliver the substance of the episode. This is where listeners receive the most value.
- Example: Joe Rogan Experience centers around long-form interviews with celebrities, experts, or other guests.
4. Ad Breaks / Sponsored Messages
- What Happens: Short commercial breaks, often presented by the host, where sponsors are mentioned or products are promoted.
- Purpose: To monetize the podcast. The more popular the podcast, the higher the sponsorship rates.
- Example: My Favorite Murder incorporates host-read ads midway through the episode.
5. Listener Q&A / Feedback Section
- What Happens: Hosts answer listener-submitted questions, read listener stories, or respond to comments and feedback from previous episodes.
- Purpose: To create engagement and interaction with the audience.
- Example: The Tim Ferriss Show sometimes includes a listener Q&A where Tim answers questions from social media or email.
6. Segmented Features / Recurring Sections
- What Happens: Popular podcasts often have recurring sections or themed segments. These can include “Fact or Fiction,” “Quickfire Questions,” or even fun trivia rounds.
- Purpose: To provide variety and structure to the episode, giving listeners something to look forward to.
- Example: How I Built This with Guy Raz often includes a “Takeaway” segment toward the end, summarizing key entrepreneurial insights.
7. Guest or Expert Sign-Off
- What Happens: For interview-based podcasts, there is often a section where the guest gives a final thought, advice, or promotes their projects or social media.
- Purpose: To allow the guest to leave a lasting impression and to wrap up their contribution.
- Example: The Smart Passive Income Podcast with Pat Flynn often gives guests space to share where listeners can find them.
8. Closing Remarks
- What Happens: The host recaps the episode, provides a summary, and thanks the audience for listening. They may also promote upcoming episodes or direct listeners to their social media or website.
- Purpose: To neatly close the episode and encourage continued engagement.
- Example: The Daily always ends with a concise wrap-up of the topic discussed.
9. Call to Action (CTA)
- What Happens: A CTA asking listeners to subscribe, rate the podcast, leave a review, or follow on social media.
- Purpose: To grow the podcast’s audience, foster engagement, and potentially monetize through platforms.
- Example: Crime Junkie encourages listeners to join their Patreon for bonus content.
10. Teasers / Next Episode Preview
- What Happens: A sneak peek of the next episode or upcoming content, often used to generate anticipation.
- Purpose: To hook listeners into returning for the next episode.
- Example: Serial often ends episodes with a cliffhanger or teaser of the following week’s mystery development.
These sections are not fixed, and their usage varies depending on the podcast format and style, but most popular shows tend to incorporate a combination of these elements to keep audiences engaged.