012: Deep Dive with Melanie Rowland on Global Success with a Minimal Budget

Julie sits down with Melanie Rowland, co-founder of Lilydale Films, who shares how she and her business partner have built a successful independent production company that is totally sustainable, without relying on streamers or broadcasters to greenlight them. They’ve created seven series, six feature films, and built a loyal audience with no investors, meaning all revenue flows directly to them. Their flagship show, Flunk, has garnered over 200 million views globally to date, all while operating on a minimal budget. Melanie discusses Lilydale’s unique approach to self-funding, building community engagement, optimising for YouTube’s algorithm, and creating new content within their highly engaged niche.