Full scripts can make you sound robotic, but winging it often leads to rambling and hours of painful editing. You need a middle ground that provides the safety of a script with the energy of a conversation.

In this episode, I break down the system I use at StereoForest Studio to organize solo episodes. We move away from word-for-word reading and towards "extemporaneous speaking." This method uses specific bullet points and a rigid structure to keep you on track while allowing your natural personality to come through.

Here is what you will learn in this episode:

Why "winging it" actually increases your production costs
The definition of "Structured Spontaneity" and why you need it
Which parts of your episode must be fully scripted (and which shouldn't)
How to use Main Points and Sub-Points to reduce cognitive load

You will leave with a clear framework to organize your next recording session for maximum efficiency and engagement.

RESOURCES:

About reading scripts without sounding like you're reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O5F4RFcNoDw

Software shown: Davinci Resolve https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/ca/products/davinciresolve

About extemporaneous speaking: https://courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-rockland-standupspeakout/chapter/four-methods-of-delivery/

StereoForest: https://stereoforest.com

CHAPTERS:

00:00 The problem with winging it vs. full scripts

02:40 Defining "Structured Spontaneity"

03:14 Why structure creates freedom (The Improv connection)

06:53 What is "Extemporaneous Speaking"?

07:40 Part 1: Fully script the first 30 seconds

09:32 Part 2: Main points and cognitive load

10:12 Part 3: Sub-points for critical data

11:51 Finding your personal level of detail

12:45 Part 4: Fully script the Outro

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About and Support

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Written, edited, and hosted by Jen deHaan.

Find this show on YouTube at https://youtube.com/@solopodcastinghandbook

Website at https://stereoforest.com/solo-podcasting

Get StereoForest’s newsletter for podcasting resources at https://stereoforest.com/subscribe

Produced by Jen deHaan of StereoForest https://stereoforest.com

Contact Jen at https://jendehaan.com

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Support

Your support will help this show continue. Funds will go towards hosting and music licensing for this show and others on StereoForest. This show is produced by an independent HUMAN artist directly affected by the state of the industry. StereoForest does not have any funding or additional support.

If you find value in our shows, please consider supporting them with a one time donation at https://stereoforest.com/tip

We love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytz

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About Jen

Jen's professional background is in web software technology (audio/video/web and graphics), working for many years in Silicon Valley. She has worked in instructional design, writing, marketing, and education in the creative space. She was also a quality engineer for awhile.

Jen became involved in performing, acting, and improv in 2015. She taught dance fitness classes (despite beginning with two left feet), performed in community theatre, and taught and coached improv comedy and acting at several theatres. Jen was also the Online School Director and Director of Marketing at WGIS.

Jen's website: https://jendehaan.com

This podcast is a StereoForest production. Made and produced in British Columbia, Canada.