Angling for Podcast Titles That Are More Than Just the Topic

If you’re putting in the work to produce podcast episodes, don’t let your titles be an afterthought. A title isn’t just a label—it’s your first and possibly only chance to hook a potential listener. And yet, too many podcasters still default to titles like “Episode 42: Interview with Sarah about Mindfulness.”

That’s not a title. That’s a missed opportunity.

In this post, we’ll break down how to craft episode titles that don’t just describe the content but actively draw people in.

The Problem With Topic-Only Titles

Titles that simply name the topic or guest may be accurate, but they fail to:

• Spark curiosity
• Convey a benefit
• Show personality
• Stand out in a crowded feed

Listeners browsing through Apple Podcasts or Spotify won’t be compelled by “Mindfulness with Sarah.” But they might be intrigued by “The Mindfulness Trick That Finally Helped Me Sleep.”

What Makes a Great Title?

Here are key ingredients to make your titles irresistible:

• Curiosity: Create an open loop. Make the listener want to know more.
• Clarity with intrigue: Avoid clickbait, but don’t give everything away.
• Specificity: Details draw attention. “The 4AM Ritual That Saved My Focus” is stronger than “Morning Routines.”
• Voice: Use your tone—witty, blunt, weird, wise.

The Psychology of Clickable Titles

Think of your titles like headlines. They should:

• Interrupt scrolling patterns
• Promise transformation or insight
• Feel like a personal recommendation

This taps into FOMO, curiosity gaps, and the brain’s love of story.

Title Upgrade Frameworks

Use these simple formulas to upgrade your episode titles:

• “Why I [did something] And [unexpected result]”
  • e.g., “Why I Stopped Editing My Podcast And Tripled My Listeners”
• “The [number] [adjective] Lessons From [topic]”
  • e.g., “7 Brutal Lessons From My First Year Podcasting”
• “Before You [do something], Listen To This“
  • e.g., “Before You Launch, Hear This Episode”

Do’s and Don’ts

✅ DO:

• Write with your listener in mind
• Use real language
• Revise after recording if needed

❌ DON’T:

• Lead with “Episode 12: [Guest Name]”
• Rely on vague concepts like “Growth” or “Tips“
• Cram keywords unnaturally

Test Before You Post

Want to know which title will hit harder? Try this:

• A/B test on Twitter or Threads
• Ask ChatGPT: “Make this title 3x more intriguing.”
• Read it aloud—does it sound like something you’d click?

The Analytics Angle

Your title affects:

• Click-through rate in podcast apps
• Retention (misleading titles = dropoffs)
• Search visibility (especially in Spotify)

Check analytics in Apple Podcasts Connect or Spotify for Podcasters to compare performance.

Final Thoughts

Your podcast title is not a label. It’s a headline. A hook. A signal to your ideal listener. Don’t waste it.

Next time you write an episode title, ask: Would I click this? Would I feel something? If not, start rewriting.

Need help rewriting a batch of old episodes or brainstorming new ones? Reach out—we help podcasters like you make every episode count.