One of the things I learned over 19+ years as a freelance writer and publisher is that freelancers must stay abreast of technology to be successful. Podcasting is the latest technological craze - and one that can add to every freelancer's bottom line.

So, what exactly is podcasting? Simply put, podcasting is delivering audio content to portable media players (eg, iPods) on demand. For a fuller understanding of what this medium is all about, visit podcastingnews.com.

One of the main advantages of podcasting is that it allows the user to listen to content on demand (eg, while they're running, driving, sailing, etc.). Simply download an MP3 file into an iPod - and go.

FYI, financial research firm PiperJaffray estimated the number of iPod users to reach 35 million by the end of calendar 2005, up from 10 million at the end of 2004. And, the firm believes that the iPod carry-over will impact numbers in Apple's fiscal 2006.

So, how can you increase your income with this new, increasingly popular technology? In the following three ways:

1. Audio Seminars: Have you written an e-book, or have an idea for a seminar? Why not produce it in audio, as well as, electronic form. Offering customers a myriad of ways to access material not only increases your income, it also illustrates that you are technologically savvy, adding to your professionalism in your clients' and customers' eyes.

2. Create a "Radio Show": Have you ever wanted to have your own radio show? Podcasting allows you to do just that. One of the great things about a radio show is that it allows you to stay in contact with customers unobtrusively. How?

Unlike a seminar, where you are selling/pushing product, a radio show can be a forum for you to answer questions from clients, update them on what's going on in your world, speak about your industry - the format can be anything you want.

I like the idea of creating a show because it allows you to express yourself in a more personal manner (if you so choose). This bonds customers to you. As customers like to do business with those they know, like and trust, a radio show can be just the outlet to create and cement all of these sentiments in your customers' minds.

The advantage of bonding customers to you? When it comes time to buy - you won't have to "work" for the sale at all because customers will feel like they know you (hence, automatically trust you) from your show.

3. Tip of the Day: I once read an article about a guy who makes thousands a month telling old jokes on the Internet - yes OLD jokes! The relevance of mentioning this? You can do the same thing with a Tip of the Day, Inspirational Word of the Day, Business Advice for the Week - whatever.

The most important thing is to get your message across and keep your product/service top of mind for when customers are ready to purchase the type of product/service you offer.

Podcasting, like any other advertising outlet, is not going to make you rich overnight. It is simply another medium to effectively get your message out, draw more customers in and increase your bottom line.

Good luck!