Sep 3 • 💡 Content Ideas & Strategies
Stop Losing Listeners in the First 30 Seconds
Whenever I get asked to check out a podcast that isn’t seeing any audience growth, I can usually spot the first problem the moment I hit play: the opening.
You’ve probably heard one like this (or maybe even done it yourself):
🎶 15 seconds of music
🎬 movie clip
🎶 10 seconds of music
🎤 comedic sound bite
🎶 more music
🎬 another clip
🎶 7 seconds of music fading out (or cutting off abruptly)
Finally, the hosts start talking, but with no mention of why you should listen, who the podcast is for, or what you’ll get out of it.
The first problem this podcaster created, and it’s a big one, is delaying the crucial information listeners need:
- What’s this podcast about?
- Who’s it for?
- Why is it worth their time?
This is even more important when your show is brand new. Most podcasters aren’t widely known, so your opening is the place to make a clear case for why someone should listen. In under 30 seconds, your introduction should answer all three questions.
Think of it as your podcast’s elevator pitch: a quick, compelling reason for a new listener to stick around. When you delay, you create a barrier to entry, forcing people to wait before deciding whether your show is worth their time. Many won’t.
That quick clarity keeps new listeners from tuning out and helps regulars feel at home. Your opening should be a handshake: short, confident, and clear.
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Stop Losing Listeners in the First 30 Seconds
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