When it comes to generating predictable revenue from a podcast, reliability in downloads is vital.

Whether that podcast is monetised via programmatic ads, directly sold host-read ads, selling merch, selling live-taping tickets, listener support via tips and memberships or a diverse combination of these and more, there are certain elements that make that show reliably profitable.

When a podcast is monetised well, it delivers repeatable and reliable numbers that can be projected and used as the basis for business decisions. Brands and ad partners actively seek out shows that will solidly perform week in and week out, and they hedge their bets & their bucks on those.

What lessons can you learn as an indie creator and how can you apply those to your own podcast without spending any money?

1. Storytelling is key - use the teaching method of getting your listener engaged: state what you're going to say, say it, then say what you've just said.
2. Breaking up your story and working around tangible chapters works.
3. Delivering what your audience turns up for is important - quirky change only works when your show is known for quirky change; listeners come to your show for your show.
4. Bad, auto-generated ad slots kill the show.
5. Production value is extremely important, including quality music used to add gravitas and proper structural planning and focus. You cannot wing it. And make sure your loudness is right...!
6. If you're solo or an interviewer, your vocal performance really matters!
7. Don’t focus on trying to hit a specific episode length everytime. Be confident enough to keep a tight story and people will come back for the next part if they need to.
8. Quality editing counts!

Remember, the key to a successful revenue strategy for your podcast is to be able to consistently deliver predictable download numbers. To do that, you need to get tight on the things that matter to listeners who now have so many podcasts from indies AND big studios to choose from!

Fan of the show? Find it helpful?

You can become a supporter of the show via a one-off tip that I'll use to buy a beer at this link: Support The Podcast Accelerator: How to Grow Your Podcast.

Your next steps

I teach podcasting a lot and for free. So, here's what I'd recommend you do next:

• Watch my free podcasting tutorials on YouTube: YouTube (Captivate)
• Ask me anything at all about podcasting over on Twitter: Twitter

If you need help with anything at all regarding your podcast, get me on Twitter (Twitter ) and I promise to respond.