Insider Secrets to a Top 100 Podcast with Courtney Elmer | Podcasting Strategies for Growing a Podcast That Converts

What to Say in the First 15 Seconds to Keep Podcast Listeners Listening

Courtney Elmer | PodLaunchHQ.com Episode 383

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0:00 | 22:05

Most podcasts lose listeners in the first 15 seconds. Not after the first ad. Not halfway into the episode. Right at the start.

I'm breaking down what’s happening in your listener’s brain the moment they hit play, why top podcasts obsess over their opening lines like the rest of the episode depends on it (because it does), and a simple structure to follow to grab and keep your listener's attention.

If you’re ready to turn your first 15 seconds into a reason listeners stay, hit play and let’s dive in.

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1:02 – Why Most Podcasts Lose Listeners in the First 15 Seconds

4:48 – Five Common Episode Openings That Make Listeners Tune Out

7:37 – 4 Things Your Opening Hook Must Do to Earn a Listener’s Attention

11:49 – The C.A.T.S. Framework for Structuring a Bingeworthy Episode Opener

20:14 – How to Write Episode Hooks that Increase Listener Engagement

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Special thanks to Resonate Recordings, our exclusive implementation partner for PodLaunch® Accelerator. If you’re podcasting but aren’t seeing listeners, leads, or sales from your show, book a free strategy call to find out what’s not working and how to fix it.

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