How to Cite a Podcast Episode in ACS (3rd Edition)

This guide explains how to format a podcast episode citation in ACS (3rd Edition). Follow the format template below, refer to the real example, and use the step-by-step instructions to build your citation correctly.

Format Template

The general pattern for citing a podcast episode in ACS (3rd Edition):

Template

Host, A. A. (Host). Title of Episode. *Podcast Name* [Podcast]; Date. URL (accessed Month Day, Year).

In-Text Citation Example

How the citation appears within the body of your paper:

In-text citation

⁹ (superscript number)

Reference List Entry Example

The full citation as it appears in your reference list:

Reference list entry

Kemsley, J. (Host). Designing Better Batteries. *Stereo Chemistry* [Podcast]; American Chemical Society, March 8, 2023. https://www.acs.org/podcasts/stereochemistry (accessed March 20, 2026).

Step-by-Step Guide

1
Identify the host or primary contributor
List the host using standard ACS name format, followed by "(Host)" in parentheses.
2
Write the episode title
Use headline-style capitalization. Do not italicize. End with a period.
3
Add the podcast name
Italicize the podcast series name. Follow with "[Podcast]" in square brackets and a semicolon.
4
Include the date and producer
Add the producing organization (if relevant) and the episode date in Month Day, Year format.
5
Add the URL and access date
Provide the URL followed by the access date in parentheses.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Omitting the podcast medium designation [Podcast].
Forgetting the access date for the online audio source.
Not italicizing the podcast series name.
Confusing the host with the guest when listing the primary contributor.
Omitting the producing organization when it adds important context.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I cite a specific guest on a podcast in ACS?

List the host as the primary author and mention the guest in the episode title or a parenthetical note. ACS does not have a specific interviewee position.

Is the [Podcast] designation required?

Yes. Including the medium in square brackets helps readers identify the source type, which is standard ACS practice for non-print sources.

What if the podcast episode has no individual host listed?

Use the producing organization as the author: American Chemical Society. Episode Title. *Podcast Name* [Podcast]; Date. URL (accessed Date).

Information You Will Need

Before creating your citation, gather the following information from your podcast episode:

Host(s)
Date of episode
Episode title
Podcast name
Producer or network (if applicable)
URL

Generate citations automatically with CiteDash

Stop formatting citations by hand. CiteDash automatically generates accurate ACS (3rd Edition) citations for all your sources while you research and write.

Start Free Trial More ACS (3rd Edition) Guides

Step-by-Step Guide

Identify the host or primary contributor

List the host using standard ACS name format, followed by "(Host)" in parentheses.

Write the episode title

Use headline-style capitalization. Do not italicize. End with a period.

Add the podcast name

Italicize the podcast series name. Follow with "[Podcast]" in square brackets and a semicolon.

Include the date and producer

Add the producing organization (if relevant) and the episode date in Month Day, Year format.

Add the URL and access date

Provide the URL followed by the access date in parentheses.