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Podcasts playbook

Hooks (first 1–3 seconds)

Trailer + cold open. First 30–60 seconds: who this is for and why stay. Episode titles should be searchable and specific. General best practice

Copyable templates

• How [guest] [result] without [resource]
• The [niche] playbook for 2026
• Why [trend] is overrated
• [Number] lessons from [experience]
• Ask Me Anything: [topic]

Optimal length

Match audience expectation. Interview shows tend to run longer than solo tip shows; let your completion data decide. Video podcasts now have separate streaming rights deals — see our news section. General best practice

Retention tactics

Posting frequency & timing

Weekly is standard. Clips on TikTok/Shorts/Reels drive new listeners. Keep audio on all apps even if video goes exclusive. General best practice

Thumbnails, titles & captions

Packaging: Cover art readable at tiny sizes. Episode art optional but helpful for video. General best practice

Captions / copy: Show notes: summary, timestamps, links, CTA. SEO title > joke title alone. General best practice

CTAs that convert

• Subscribe on your app
• Leave a rating
• Join the newsletter / Patreon

Format ideas

Pre-publish checklist

• ✅ Cold open recorded
• ✅ Title + show notes SEO
• ✅ Timestamps
• ✅ Clip 3 shorts from the episode
• ✅ CTA mid + end
• ✅ Audio stays multi-platform if video is exclusive

Sources

• Spotify for Podcasters
• Apple Podcasts Connect

Badge key: ✓ Official source = platform's own docs; Secondary = reputable third-party report; General best practice = experience-based guidance, not a published platform number. Rules change; confirm on the official page.

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