What exactly is an intro or an outro? And do you need them?
Intros
An Intro is, as you would expect, an introduction to your episode. The world of podcasting often has overlapping terminology and this is one of those cases.
An introduction can:
- set the scene for a particular episode so your listeners know what to expect.
- be an entire episode in it’s own right, introducing your podcast to potential listeners to help them decide if they want to listen.
- be a combination of music and voiceover that identifies your show. – normally called an Intro. Think of the theme music for a tv show, or a jingle on the radio.
Outros
An Outro goes at the end of your show, typically the same music – a reminder of who they’ve been listening to and any credits.
Credits for the music (if required), your producer (if applicable)
Do You Need Them?
Honestly, no. They are not mandatory and your podcast won’t be rejected because you don’t have them.
But (and there’s always a but isn’t there!), they add polish to your show, make it feel more professional and polished and set the mood for your show. The outro reminds everyone of your name and gives you an easy way to put the credits in.
I would strongly recommend that you do have them.
