How to Start as a Shownotes Writer
Estimated Start Time: 1–3 Weeks
Overview
✨ A Shownotes Writer listens to
podcast episodes and creates concise summaries, timestamps, key
takeaways, and calls to action to accompany the audio.
Shownotes are essential for podcasts, helping listeners navigate
episodes, improving SEO, and providing valuable resources. Many
podcasters, especially those with weekly or daily shows, need help
creating high-quality shownotes. This role is perfect for individuals
with excellent listening comprehension, strong writing skills, and a
knack for summarizing information effectively.
5 Steps to Start Your Shownotes Writing Business
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Step 1: Develop Active Listening Skills. Practice
listening to podcasts and identifying main points, important quotes,
and actionable advice. You'll need to quickly grasp the essence of an
episode.
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Step 2: Master Summarization & Writing. Learn to
condense lengthy audio into engaging, scannable text. Focus on clear,
concise writing that highlights the episode's value.
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Step 3: Understand Podcast SEO. Learn how to
incorporate relevant keywords into shownotes to improve a podcast's
discoverability on search engines and podcast platforms.
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Step 4: Build a Portfolio. Choose 3-5 existing
podcast episodes (preferably in a niche you enjoy) and write sample
shownotes for them. Include a summary, timestamps, and key takeaways.
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Step 5: Find Clients. Network with podcasters on
social media (Twitter, LinkedIn), join podcasting communities, or
offer your services on freelance platforms (Upwork, Fiverr).
Essential Tools for Shownotes Writers
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Audio Playback: VLC Media Player (for speed control).
- Writing: Google Docs, Microsoft Word.
- Grammar: Grammarly.
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AI Tools: ChatGPT/Gemini (for initial
transcription/summary drafts, to be edited).
7-Day Starter Plan
Day 1
Listen to 2-3 podcast episodes and take detailed notes on the main
topics and key discussion points.
Day 2
Practice summarizing one of the episodes into a 150-200 word
description.
Day 3
Re-listen to an episode and practice creating accurate timestamps for
5-7 key moments.
Day 4
Write a sample shownotes document for a podcast, including a summary,
timestamps, and 3-5 key takeaways.
Day 5
Create a simple portfolio page or document showcasing your sample
shownotes.
Day 6
Research 5-10 podcasts in a niche you enjoy. Identify their current
shownotes style and potential areas for improvement.
Day 7
Draft a pitch email to send to podcasters, offering your services and
linking to your portfolio.
Tips for Success
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Be Accurate: Ensure summaries and timestamps are
precise.
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Highlight Value: Focus on what listeners will gain
from the episode.
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Optimize for SEO: Use relevant keywords to improve
discoverability.
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Meet Deadlines: Podcasters often have tight release
schedules. */