How Dropout came back from the brink stronger—and funnier—than ever
Jun 5, 2024
auto_awesome
Dropout CEO Sam Reich discusses rebranding and growth of Dropout TV, focusing on long-form improv content. The podcast delves into revenue strategies, niche comedy, and maintaining a unique workplace culture. Keith Gill's return to Reddit and the Paramount-Skydance merger are also highlighted.
Dropout rebranded from CollegeHumor, focusing on long-form improv content and social media marketing.
Dropout prioritizes brand awareness through vertical videos on TikTok and producing unique comedy series for growth.
Deep dives
NVIDIA splits shares to boost accessibility
NVIDIA announces a split in its shares aimed at enhancing stock ownership accessibility. Advanced Micro Devices introduces AI processors to challenge NVIDIA, expecting $4 billion in AI chip sales by 2024. Paramount and Skydance agree to a merger worth $8 billion. Toyota, Mazda, and Yamahasa are ordered to halt shipments due to testing irregularities. Moderna obtains FDA approval for RSV vaccine after facing declining revenue from Spikevax. Delaware judge approves 70,000 lawsuits against former Zantac makers over harmful exposure claims.
Roaring Kitty resurfaces after GameStop squeeze
Keith Gill, also known as Roaring Kitty, involved in the 2021 GameStop short squeeze, rejoins Reddit as GameStop stocks rise. Trump's media shares decline upon his conviction in a New York City court. The Japanese Transport Ministry orders Toyota, Mazda, and Yamahasa to halt vehicle shipments due to quality testing malpractice. Moderna's RSV vaccine gains FDA approval after a revenue decline from Spikevax. Over 70,000 lawsuits are greenlit against former Zantac makers over harmful chemical exposure.
Dropout Comedy Streaming Service's Transformation
Dropout, an independent comedy streaming service under IAC, undergoes a rebrand and transformation led by CEO Sam Reich. The company navigates challenges after being on the brink of closure post-IAC's decision to sell. Dropout focuses on subscription-based unique comedy content, nurturing talent, and taking measured risks. Profit sharing, workplace equity, and content diversification shape Dropout's growth trajectory.
Challenges and Triumphs of Love is Blind's Creator
Vulture sheds light on Love is Blind creator Chris Coelen, mentioning his unconventional habit of eating cereal with water, providing insight into his character. The profile reveals the reality show's behind-the-scenes dynamics and challenges. Andy Cohen faces scrutiny amid increased attention on reality TV ethics and responsibilities. Insights into industry figures and their impactful roles in shaping TV entertainment landscape.
Last September, CollegeHumor rebranded as Dropout. The 25-year old comedy platform made the move after a surge in subscriptions to the company's streaming platform, Dropout TV. After decades of struggling to find profitability, this became the centerpiece of its business model.
“Truthfully, as a high school dropout, I never really connected with the brand name CollegeHumor,” said Dropout CEO Sam Reich. "We promised ourselves we would only do away with the name when we felt that Dropout was popular enough to eclipse it, and we feel that time is now.”
Since purchasing the company for a whopping $0 in 2020, Reich has prioritized producing long-form improv content, keeping costs low and driving brand awareness through vertical videos on social media networks like TikTok. Dropout currently has 11 active series including its two most popular properties Game Changer and Dimension 20, a series where comedians actually play a live game of Dungeons & Dragons. By the end of this year, they are set to have 15 series including a live comedy special series called Dropout Presents that will launch this summer with a stand-up special from YouTuber Hank Green. The company has also ventured into live event programming for Dimension 20 in partnership with Live Nation, starting with a four-show tour of the U.K. this spring and, most impressively, leading up to a show at Madison Square Garden in January of 2025.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode