The Online Course Show 268: The Minimum Legal Setup Every Course Creator Needs (Featuring Bobby Klinck)
Oct 9, 2025
Join Harvard Law graduate Bobby Klinck, now an online entrepreneur, as he unpacks the legal essentials every course creator needs. He discusses common fears about content theft and emphasizes controlling what you can. Bobby recounts his own failed launch and the lessons learned, like the importance of niche and quality leads. He provides a checklist for legal setups, including trademark searches and privacy policies, while explaining trademarks versus copyrights. Plus, he shares tips on avoiding costly mistakes and the relevance of insurance for online businesses.
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Stealing Your Course Is Less Harmful Than You Think
- Worrying about others stealing your course is the wrong top question to ask.
- Focus on what you can control because most stolen copies make few or no sales.
Failed $70k Launch Taught Hard Lessons
- Bobby spent $60–$70k on a 2017 launch and made one sale that refunded.
- That failure taught him to change offer, niche, and marketing approach.
Search Trademarks Before Naming Your Course
- Do a trademark search on USPTO.gov and common variations before you launch or commit to a name.
- If a similar mark exists, pick a different name to avoid future cease-and-desist headaches.
