⭕ To Zero or Not To Zero?

What is an episode zero and does your podcast need it?

Hello hello! Shreya here ✨. Recently, on one of our Podcast Therapy sessions, we were faced with an interesting question – should my podcast have an Episode Zero? So, obviously, here I am writing about it while singing this song. (Hint: see below).

I think of Episode Zero as an overture of an opera; it sets the tone, introduces the themes, and gives the audience a taste of what’s to come. 🎧 For example, Lowlines’ prologue episode tells us why the host is here, why the listener is here, and what to expect of this journey. 

But is it necessary for every podcast? Let’s explore, shall we? 

Understanding Episode Zero

Unlike a trailer that offers a brief teaser, Episode Zero goes deeper. It’s your chance to introduce the hosts, delve into the why behind the podcast, and outline what listeners can expect in terms. It’s the first handshake with your audience, where you outline the journey you’re inviting them on.

Before we proceed, here’s something from Arielle Nissenblatt to level set this real quick: 

It’s important to note — when discussing episode zeros, trailers, teasers, and any other terms you might use to refer to audio snippets — there are no exact measurements. A teaser can have elements of a trailer. An episode zero can have elements of a teaser. It’s absolutely fine if you’re not exacting with your definitions. As long as you are accomplishing your goals of creating an on-ramp to your podcast for your listeners.

🎧 I love Butt Out, Baby’s brilliant Episode Zero because it’s the perfect example of what Arielle said. It sets expectations and keeps it simple.

Does Your Podcast Need an Episode Zero?

Honestly, I personally think that an Episode Zero is a great strategy but who would I be if I didn’t present a list of questions to cross-examine myself. 

Here are some questions to help you determine if an Episode Zero makes sense for you. These might also help understand what to keep in mind when making one. 

Who is your intended audience, and how familiar are they with you or your topic?

If you’re entering a niche where you’re not well-known, this episode can be a vital tool to build rapport and set expectations. 

Additionally, if you’re dropping a limited series within an existing feed, an Episode Zero might help set the context. 🎧 Journalists Stephanie Marudas and Emily Previti created an introductory episode for their limited series From Words to Weapons, which appeared on their podcast Obscured.

Is your podcast concept or format complex or unique?

An Episode Zero can help demystify your concept and format, making it more accessible to new listeners. This is especially true for formats like TTRPG and Fiction.

🎧 Wil William’s new podcast Nevermorphed has a great pilot episode which serves as a wonderful example of this! 

What do you want your audience to feel or think after listening to your podcast?

If there’s a specific takeaway or impact you aim for, an Episode Zero can help articulate this mission. Limited series might stand to benefit from these!

Do you have a clear vision and purpose for your podcast that you can articulate?

Consider this hard and long because you want to portray clarity in this episode. If yes, sharing this vision in an Episode Zero can be powerful in attracting a like-minded audience. 

When to Release Your Episode Zero

Timing is everything. Ideally, release your Episode Zero two weeks before your full launch. This window allows you to generate buzz, receive initial feedback, and adjust your marketing accordingly. It also ensures that when listeners find your episode zero, they know exactly when to expect more content.

One Final Thing

If you do choose to publish an Episode Zero that is integral to the plot or understanding of your show, make sure you declare that. You don’t want them missing out on critical information. Consider adding something like “If you’re just joining us now, make sure to go back and listen to our Episode Zero so you have all the context you need” to the intro of the first few episodes.

Does your podcast episode have an Episode Zero? Share it with me and the readers!

✨ More Magic

• On Monday March 11, Arielle and our very own Devin will be hosting an interactive Podcast Clinic with Ausha to assess and evaluate podcasts on-the-spot.

• Anne, Holly, Ilana, and Lauren will be representing Tink at Podcast Movement Evolutions in LA. If you see them, tell them Shreya says hi.

🎙️From The Desk of Tink

When you tune into today’s conversation about AI, don’t you ever wonder how you’d have done things differently if you knew more from the get go? BCG’s Imagine This… is here to answer that question. Hosted by BCG’s Editor-in-Chief Paul Michelman and GENE, his generative (and somewhat Socratic) AI co-host, the show is more than the conventional wisdom on AI's impact on the future—it’s a guide filled with actionable insights. 

That’s all from me, folks!

Wil returns next week with more podcast marketing magic.

Stay curious,

Shreya