Are you wasting your first 30 seconds?

Is your podcast intro turning people away?

Too many podcasters kick off with random chit-chat, life updates, or awkward mic adjustments. Don’t let that be you!

You’ve got just half a minute to hook a new listener, and if you don’t, they’re moving on. In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how to craft an intro that grabs attention and keeps your listeners around for the full episode.

We’re talking about creating a powerful Podcast Promise—an intro that lets listeners know exactly what they’re going to get by hitting play. Here’s how to set it up for maximum impact:

1. Your Show’s Name & Your Name

   Let listeners know who you are and what show they’re tuning into. Skip the laundry list of credentials; just get to the point.

2. Who Your Show Is For

   Call out your audience directly. Don’t try to appeal to everyone—be specific. You want listeners to feel like this show is for them.

3. What You Deliver Every Episode

   Tell them what they can expect from your show. Be clear about what you bring to the table, but keep it tight. Is it actionable tips? Case studies? Inspiring conversations? Make it clear and avoid a catch-all list.

4. The Outcome or Long-Term Benefit

   Give them a reason to keep coming back. What problem are you solving for your listeners? What’s the long-term benefit they’ll gain if they stick around? This is where your podcast promise seals the deal.

The right intro doesn’t just attract the right listeners—it repels the wrong ones. If your content isn’t a match for someone, you want them to know right away so they don’t waste their time (or yours!). A strong podcast promise attracts those who are primed for what you offer, making it easier to turn listeners into loyal fans and even clients.

Want to hear an example? I share a powerful podcast promise from one of my clients that perfectly illustrates how a clear intro not only brings in the right audience but also pushes away the wrong one.

So, is your podcast intro doing the heavy lifting it should? Use this checklist to put yours to the test:

1. Show Name & Host Name

2. Target Listener

3. What You Consistently Deliver

4. Long-Term Benefit for Regular Listeners

Put your podcast intro to the test and make sure it’s as strong as it can be. With the right intro, you’ll hook listeners early, build authority, and set your podcast up to serve you, your audience, and your business.

Now that you've analyzed your intro, let's have a look at your whole podcast (and find out how to improve your podcast ROI). Grab my free Podcast Audit.

Want more tips on perfecting each part of your podcast? Check out related episodes on show intros, topic intros, and guest intros right here: 

185: Why Your Guest Intro Sucks 

148: Nail Your Podcast Guest Intro Every time

40: How to Properly Introduce Your Podcast Guest 

34: Hook Listeners with an Effective Podcast Intro

23: Is Your Professional Intro a Turn-Off?

04: Creating Great a Podcast Intro

92: Why Niche Podcasts are Killing It

93: How to Niche Down Like a Pro

216: Overcome the Fear of Niching Down Your Podcast 

201: 5 Ways to Pivot Your Podcast for a Better Return on Your Investment