Podcast Episode Planner

Who this is for

One episode, planned on one page. The running order sets out each segment with its planned minutes, talking points and the links to mention, and the checks at the foot carry the episode from recording to release.

Independent podcasters and small teams who record their own shows, whether solo, with a co-host or with a guest each week.

What this helps you track

• The episode number, title and both the recording and release dates
• Who the guest is and how to reach them
• The running order, segment by segment, with planned minutes
• The talking points and links to mention in each segment
• The jobs between recording and release, ticked off as they are done

How to use it

1. Write the episode number, working title, recording and release dates, and the guest's name and contact.
2. Set out the running order: a line per segment with the minutes you plan to give it.
3. Note the talking points and any links, books or offers to mention in each segment, so the show notes almost write themselves.
4. Keep the sheet in front of you while recording and mark anything that changed.
5. Work through the release checks afterwards; the browser version saves in your own browser.

Formats

• Printable PDF (A4 and US Letter)
• Fillable PDF with form fields
• Fill in online, saved in your browser

The printable is laid out inside a box that fits both A4 and US Letter, so the two files are identical and neither one is scaled. The fillable PDF has real form fields. The online version keeps what you enter in your own browser and builds the completed PDF on your device.

How to print

Download the A4 or US Letter file to match the paper in your printer, open it in a PDF reader and print at 100% — not "fit to page", which shrinks the writing space. Both files leave a 14 mm margin, which clears the unprintable edge on home printers. To print the online version with your entries in it, use the Print this sheet button, which prints only the sheet and none of the page around it. More on printing.

Questions

How long should each segment be?

As long as suits your show. The planned minutes column is for your own plan; add it up to see whether the episode matches the length you have in mind, and adjust before recording rather than in the edit.

What is the guest release on the checklist?

Some podcasters ask guests to agree in writing to the recording being published. Whether you need one, and what it should say, depends on your show and the rules where you are; the tick is a reminder to settle it.

Can I use it for a solo episode?

Yes. Leave the guest fields blank and use the running order and checks as normal. Solo episodes benefit most from written talking points.

Should I print one per episode?

Yes. Keep them in episode order and they become a record of every show: who was on, what was covered and what was promised in the show notes.