Reels are now powerful drivers of podcast promotion, and Short-form video apps like TikTok and Instagram are the best tools to help boost your show and create a strong community and a large following. 

With their tens of millions of daily active users, they're an ideal means of being discovered, fostering engagement, and driving traffic to your complete episodes.

But how do you create viral podcast clips that stop the scroll and get shared? In this tutorial, we're going to break down the step-by-step process of creating effective, high-performing clips to get your podcast maximum visibility on social media.

How to Create Viral Podcast Clips for TikTok & Instagram

Here is how to do it:

Step 1: Select the Right Podcast Moments

Not all podcast moments are equally relevant. To create viral clips, you need those very special moments, those that can be provocative, inspiring, or amusing pieces of content that resonate with your audience.

This is what will probably go viral:

• Emotional Moments – Funny, surprising, or moving moments that make you vulnerable or make the listeners feel connected with you.

• Controversial Takes – Risky opinions or novel ideas that stir up discussion.

• Actionable Advice – Brief, actionable advice that people can apply immediately.

• Engaging Storytelling – Engaging stories that capture people's interest.

• Viral Soundbites – Catchy one-liners or memorable quick quotes.

Pro Tip: Browse trending TikTok and Instagram Reels to determine what kind of podcast clips work well in your space.

Step 2: Format Your Clip for Maximum Engagement

The correct format can make or break your video's success. Do the following best practices:

• Keep It Short – 15-60 seconds to align with social media trends.

• Use Captions – The majority of viewers view videos without sound; add bold, readable captions.

• Crop for Vertical View – Create videos 9:16 aspect ratio for TikTok & Instagram Reels.

• Add Engaging Text & Emojis – Add on-screen text and relevant emojis to highlight key points.

• Use Dynamic Cuts – Don't have prolonged pauses; use quick cuts and zoom-ins to highlight.

• Hook in the First 3 Seconds – Start with a hook statement or image.

Step 3: Edit Like a Pro

Great editing builds a high engagement and shareability. Use tools like:

CapCut (Free & viral for TikTok editing)

Adobe Premiere Pro (Professional editing)

Descript (Transcription + video editing)

Canva (Easy graphics & text overlays)

InShot (Phone-friendly video editing)

Editing Tips:

1. Cut out unnecessary parts to keep the pace fast.

2. Use jump cuts for a seamless and energetic feel.

3. Add background music or sound effects for extra impact.

4. Match captions to words for better readability.

Step 4: Optimize for TikTok & Instagram Algorithms

Even the best content needs the right strategy to go viral. Here’s how to optimize your clips for TikTok & Instagram:

1. Use Trending Sounds & Music

• Discover TikTok's Trending Sounds and incorporate them into your content.

• On Instagram, tap into Reels' music library for more visibility.

2. Write Catchy Captions & Hashtags

• Keep captions short, relevant, and end with a question to encourage comments.

• Use hashtags wisely (e.g., #PodcastClip, #Motivation, #EntrepreneurMindset, #ViralReels).

• Use broad & niche hashtags to get discovered best.

3. Post at the Right Time

• Best posting times: 6-10 AM & 6-11 PM (TikTok & Instagram prime times).

Consistency is key – Post 3-5 times per week to keep the algorithm in your good books.

Step 5: Interact & Cross-Promote Your Top Clips

Once your clip is live, there’s a lot to do to make it viral! Don't just wait and see what happens; engaging with your viewers is the true key to success!

• Reply to every comment to boost engagement.

• Pin a leading comment with a CTA (e.g., "Full episode linked in bio!").

• Cross-post the clip on Stories and request reshares.

• Put questions in the comments to get the ball rolling.

• Engage with other podcasters by tagging them in posts related to their profession.

Step 6: Drive Traffic to Your Whole Podcast

Your viral videos should be a lead to your whole episodes. Here's how to convert watchers into listeners:

• Have a Clear Call to Action : End each video with "Watch the full episode – link in bio!"

• Use Linktree or Beacons.ai: Make it easy for viewers to find your podcast links.

• Post a Follow-Up Clip: Post another teaser or key takeaway from the same episode.

• Use TikTok's "Reply with Video" Feature: If someone comments on your clip with a question, reply with another video!

Conclusion

Creating viral podcast clips for TikTok & Instagram can be a real game-changer for your show. 

By selecting the most engaging moments, editing carefully (yes, listeners expect quality, not just awesome content!), leveraging trends, and engaging with your audience, you can boost your podcast's visibility, attract new listeners and create a stronger community.

Ready to go viral? Begin repurposing your podcast content today and see your audience grow!

Need help with growing your podcast/ Read our guides: 

How to Conduct Podcast Interviews - Complete Guide

Metadata in Podcasts: The Secret to Getting Found

How to Ask Listeners for Podcast Reviews (Without Sounding Annoying!)

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Author's note

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