Introduction
Your podcast intro is the first impression. A professional intro with the right voice, pacing, and music sets the tone for the entire episode. AI text-to-speech lets you create broadcast-quality intros without hiring a voice artist.
Intro Script Templates
Template 1: Simple and Clean
"Welcome to [Show Name], the podcast where we [topic description]. I am [Host Name]. Let us get into it."
Template 2: Hook-First
"[Provocative question or stat]. This is [Show Name]. I am [Host Name], and today we are exploring [topic]."
Template 3: Guest Introduction
"Welcome to [Show Name]. Today I am joined by [Guest Name], [Guest Title]. We are diving into [topic]. Let us go."
Template 4: Branded
"This is [Show Name], brought to you by [Sponsor]. I am [Host Name]. Every [day], we break down [topic]. Here is today's episode."
Best Voices for Intros
For authority: ElevenLabs "Arnold" — deep, confident, broadcasting style. For warmth: ElevenLabs "Rachel" — approachable, clear, friendly. For energy: ElevenLabs "Josh" — upbeat, conversational, engaging. For your own voice: Clone your voice and use it for the intro. Maximum brand consistency.
Production Tips
Keep it short. 10-15 seconds maximum. Listeners skip long intros.
Add music underneath. Find royalty-free intro music on Epidemic Sound, Artlist, or use AI-generated music from Suno. Fade the music in, bring it down when the voice starts, fade out as the episode begins.
Generate once, use forever. Your intro does not change episode to episode (unless you include episode-specific info). Generate one perfect version and reuse it.
Create variations. Generate 3-4 versions with slightly different deliveries. Pick the best one. Having alternatives means you can refresh your intro without re-producing from scratch.
Outro Best Practices
Outros are often forgotten but are your best opportunity for listener action:
"Thanks for listening to [Show Name]. If this episode was helpful, leave a review — it helps more people find the show. Follow us on [platform]. New episodes every [schedule]. See you next time."
Duration: 10-20 seconds. Include a clear call to action (review, follow, visit website).
Frequently Asked Questions
Should my intro and outro use the same voice?
Yes, for consistency. Use the same AI voice (or your own cloned voice) for both. This bookends the episode with a familiar sound.
How much does a professional AI intro cost?
Essentially free. Generate it once on ElevenLabs free tier (it is under 15 seconds of audio). Even on paid plans, the cost is fractions of a cent.
Can I add sound effects to the AI voice?
Absolutely. Import the AI audio into Audacity, layer sound effects (whoosh, chime, transition) and music underneath. This is standard podcast production.
For full podcast AI guide, see AI voice for podcasts. For voice options, check best AI voiceover software.