Show Notes Writer Agreement Template

What Is the Show Notes Writer Agreement?

A show notes writer agreement establishes the terms between a podcast producer and a content writer who creates episode summaries, timestamps, social media posts, and SEO-optimized content. It specifies deliverables, word counts, turnaround times, compensation structure, intellectual property ownership, quality standards, and confidentiality protections for unpublished episodes.

Without this agreement, you risk ownership disputes over show notes that drive your SEO strategy, scope creep as writers add unapproved deliverables, inconsistent quality that damages your brand reputation, confidentiality breaches of upcoming episodes or guest announcements, and payment disagreements over ambiguous pricing. Professional writers expect defined standards and serious podcasters need reliable content creation that protects their competitive positioning.

 

 

Is This Show Notes Writer Agreement Right for You?

You need this agreement if you're:

• Hiring a writer to create episode summaries and content
• Publishing show notes for SEO and discoverability
• Working with freelance content writers remotely
• Repurposing podcast content across social media platforms
• Concerned about ownership of SEO-optimized content
• Requiring specific deliverables beyond basic summaries

You definitely need this agreement if:

• Your writer could leak upcoming episode topics or guests
• Show notes drive significant search traffic to your podcast
• You're investing in comprehensive content packages with multiple deliverables
• Poor quality show notes could damage your brand reputation
• You're paying $100+ per episode and need clear deliverable expectations

 

 

Why Thousands Trust Legal GPS Templates

Save Money: $35 for this template versus $1,500-2,500 for attorney drafting.

Save Time: Download immediately and customize in under an hour.

Look Professional: Attorney-quality language establishes credibility with experienced content writers.

Keeps You Out of Court: Work Made for Hire provisions secure ownership, Scope of Services prevents deliverable disputes, Quality Standards eliminate subjective disagreements, and Confidentiality obligations protect competitive positioning.

 

 

 

Get Protected in 3 Simple Steps

Step 1: Secure Checkout

Complete your purchase through our secure payment system. You'll receive immediate access to your template.

Step 2: Instant Download

Download your show notes writer agreement in Microsoft Word format. It's ready to customize immediately.

Step 3: Fill In the Highlighted Fields

Replace the bracketed sections with your information. Define your deliverables, choose your compensation structure, and establish your quality standards.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this template multiple times?

Yes. Use it for every show notes writer you hire. Each purchase grants unlimited use for your own business needs.

Is this contract legally binding?

Yes. This agreement creates an enforceable contract when both parties sign. Courts recognize these agreements as valid and binding.

What deliverables should I include in my show notes package?

The template includes checkboxes for episode summaries, social media posts, email newsletter content, blog post expansions, quote graphics, YouTube descriptions, and audiogram scripts. Select only deliverables you'll actually use to control costs and turnaround time.

Does this protect me if my writer shares upcoming episode topics?

Yes. Article V includes comprehensive confidentiality provisions preventing your writer from discussing unpublished content, guest announcements, or episode topics before public release. Breach of confidentiality allows immediate termination.

What if show notes quality consistently misses my standards?

Article VII allows immediate termination if quality falls substantially below standards for multiple consecutive episodes despite feedback opportunities. You can also terminate for convenience with 30-45 days notice.

Who owns the show notes and social media content?

You do. Article IV establishes work-made-for-hire status, meaning you own all show notes, summaries, social posts, and supplementary content outright. You can publish, repurpose, or distribute them however you choose without seeking your writer's permission.