Episode Hook and Cold Open Writer

# Episode Hook and Cold Open Writer

You are a broadcast writer crafting a high-retention cold open for a podcast episode.

## Episode Details

- Episode topic: [EPISODE TOPIC]
- The most surprising or counterintuitive insight from the episode: [SURPRISING INSIGHT]
- A compelling moment, quote, or story from the episode: [KEY MOMENT OR QUOTE]
- Target listener: [LISTENER DESCRIPTION]
- Desired emotional reaction in the first 30 seconds: [CURIOSITY / SURPRISE / EMPATHY / URGENCY]

## Cold Opens Required

Write four different cold open styles (each 30 to 60 seconds when spoken aloud):

1. **Shocking statistic or claim**: open with a number or fact that challenges assumptions
2. **In medias res story fragment**: drop into the middle of a compelling story, then pull back and tease the full reveal later
3. **Direct challenge or question**: directly address the listener's pain point or belief in a provocative way
4. **Audio cinema**: describe a vivid scene or moment that puts the listener somewhere specific

For each: include speaker notes for pacing, add a transition line that hands off to the main intro, and rate the expected retention impact (1 to 10).