It’s a question that comes up with my podcast coaching clients a lot: reading from a script, using bullet points, or speaking straight from memory. Which should I choose?
I think it’s important to say to start with is there’s no wrong answer here. Each method has its pros and cons, and knowing which one works best for you is key to sounding natural, confident, and engaging so that your podcast attracts the right audience and has the impact you intended.
So, here’s a wee breakdown of each option as a starter for ten:
1. Scripts: The Full Monty
Reading from a full script can give you the structure and clarity you need, especially if you’re covering complex topics. The downside is that it can sound stiff or overly formal if you’re not careful. To keep things conversational, make sure to practice your script before recording, so you can decide where to breathe and how the word stress should fall. If you’re new to podcasting, you might want to start with a script unti you feel confident trying a more off-the-cuff approach.
Pro: Provides structure and ensures you don’t miss anything important which is key if you’re addressing heavy topics or subjects with facts and figures.
Con: Can sound robotic if you’re too tied to the script. It’s harder to sound like you when you’re ready from a script, because often the way your script is written isn’t how you speak.
2. Bullet Points: The Freedom of Structure
Bullet points are a bit of a happy medium. They give you enough structure to stay on track but allow for more flexibility and freedom in delivery. Bullet points can make it easier to have a more conversational feel because you’re not tied to a word-for-word script. Be warned though, you still need to be prepared so you’re not fumbling for words in the middle of a sentence. Some folks like writing a full script and then working out the bullet points. Others like to set the bullet points and then just practise riffing around them as part of the prep.
Pro: Flexible and conversational with enough structure to stay on point. Easy to add in references and important info and leave the rest of the words until in the moment.
Con: Can leave you feeling unprepared if you don’t know your points well enough. If you’re not practised, you can end up doing a lot of ums, ahs and filler words whilst your brain works in the background!
3. Speaking from Memory: The Ultimate Freedom
Speaking from memory is the most natural-sounding option, but it’s also the most challenging. You have to not only know your topic inside and out, which takes practice, but you also have to know your story and reason for your episode too – otherwise it can end up as a big auld ramble. It’s great for sounding spontaneous and connected to your audience, but without enough preparation, it can lead to rambling or forgetting key points.
Pro: The most natural and spontaneous delivery.
Con: Risk of forgetting or going off-topic if you’re not prepared.
Finding the Right Method for You
Look, the more episodes you do, the more you’ll learn what works for you. The best approach depends on your personal style and the nature of your podcast. If you’re doing an in-depth interview, a script might be your best bet to keep everything on track. For a more casual solo podcast, bullet points or speaking from memory can create a relaxed, conversational vibe.
Give them all a go, listen back and see what you prefer. Experiment with all three methods and see what works best for you! And remember—there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, so you do you and give yourself the flexibility to adapt as needed.
Want to master your delivery?
Dive deeper into voice and delivery techniques by tuning into my podcast The Voice Coach Podcast or grab a copy of my book On The Mic at onthemicbook.com to improve your vocal performance for podcasting!
