What are Podcast Segments?
Author: Podcast Engineers
Podcasting is now considered an effective tool to establish authority, bring brand awareness, and build a loyal following. However, just getting a podcast out there won't suffice. You need to ensure your podcast provides topnotch content your listeners will find valuable. Podcast shows are usually divided into segments. The different segments helps show your audience that you’re able to deliver a valuable and cohesive show.
Segments provide the perfect opportunity for you to break up your content, discuss new topics, and bring more fun to the show. Segments can include but are not limited to music, introduction, questions and answer, and news, among many others.
Three Main Segments
While you can incorporate multiple segments in your show, many podcasts integrate just three; introduction, main content, and conclusion.
The introduction is usually where the intro and the podcast music is integrated. This is also the part where the topic to be discussed as well as the special guest will be presented. It might be a good idea to have a signature introduction so new listeners will know what to expect when they tune in. Ensure your introduction is quick, interesting, and straightforward so you can create a favorable first impression.
In between the introduction and the conclusion is the main content. This is the part where the discussions and the interview will happen. Aside from the discussions, you can also incorporate other segments in the main content to make it more interesting and fun.
The conclusion is the part where you wrap things up and provide key points and insights people can use and implement. This is also the part where you can let your listeners know about other venues and platforms where they can connect with you. In addition, it is in the conclusion where you can invite people to subscribe and listen to your next offering.
While segments can also have other sub-components, when combined, everything should form one high-quality and cohesive show listeners can clearly understand and learn valuable insights from.
Important Podcast Segments
Intro and outro music: Music will add a certain dimension to your show. It can also make it more memorable. In addition, music will also give your show it's own identity. Eventually, when your listeners hear the music, they can connect it with your show, think of Law and Order.
Question and answer: If you have guests coming over, a question-and-answer segment would be a fun way to impart valuable information and insights. Inviting an industry expert to do question and answer is also a good idea. In addition, you can also ask listeners to send in any questions they may have about a particular topic you will be tackling.
Random facts: A quick and interesting did-you-know can also be a great segment listeners would most likely love. This works best with podcasts with very specific niches. Ensure information is delivered in a manner that is both interesting and fun.
Reviews: Reviews often work regardless of the topic. There will always be a book, application, program, or device you can dissect that's closely related to the subject you are discussing. You can also review films or pretty much anything your listeners might be interested in.
News: Current events related to your industry is also something your listeners might be interested in.
There's no shortage of diverse segments you can incorporate in your podcast. Fortunately, it is reassuring to know there is no right or wrong segment flow. Just test the waters and don't think twice about asking for suggestions or feedback. Also, don't shy away from integrating segments when the need arises so you'll keep things interesting, relevant, and fun.