#183 - How Course Businesses Work, How Irish Pubs as a Service i…
About This Episode
Sam and Shaan explore the mechanics of different online education models, ranging from solo creators to multi-million dollar B2B enterprise training. They also brainstorm ways to capitalize on the massive commercial real estate vacancies in San Francisco and analyze the 'business-in-a-box' model popularized by the Irish Pub Company.
Episode Description
Show Notes
- * (5:48) Why Shaan got into a Twitter argument
- * (18:21) Is On Deck the most over-hyped course company?
- * (23:35) The guide to course businesses
- * (45:30) How IPaaS (Irish Pub as a Service) is making millions
- * (53:32) Making money selling ice?
- * (58:41) Profiting from vacant office spaces
Key Takeaways
Cohort-based courses (CBCs) solve the completion rate problem in online education by achieving up to 75% engagement compared to the 6% industry standard for self-paced video courses.
B2B education is primarily a sales-driven business where platforms like Pluralsight are sold into HR departments as recruiting perks rather than strictly for curriculum quality.
The 'business-in-a-box' model works by selling standardized, high-margin transformations (like themed pub interiors) that allow generic businesses to increase foot traffic and revenue.
Business Ideas Mentioned
Home Video Conferencing Studio in a Box
E-commerce
Licensed Media IP Restaurant Kits
Boring Business
Clear Ice Hobbyist Brand
E-commerce
Dark Stores in Vacant High-Rises
Real Estate
Distributed Urban Education Campuses
Real Estate