Channels with Peter Kafka
How Dropout found success streaming comedy for $6 a month
Oct 26, 2023
Sam Reich turned around CollegeHumor by focusing on the subscription streaming service, Dropout. They created improvised comedy content perfect for viral clips on TikTok and YouTube. Dropout now has a thriving fanbase and is considering revenue sharing with employees. The podcast delves into the history of CollegeHumor, challenges faced, launching a subscription service, ownership structure, unique talent relationships, and the affordability and identity of the service.
32:45
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Dropout, the subscription streaming part of CollegeHumor, found success by leaning into improvised comedy content that could go viral on social media.
- Dropout is targeting a young adult audience by offering a mix of scripted and unscripted shows, with plans for profit sharing and a residuals program for all contributors.
Deep dives
The Origins of Dropout and Its Evolution
Dropout is the evolution of CollegeHumor, a comedic website that started in 1999. Initially, CollegeHumor served as an aggregator of humorous college and internet content. Over the years, it grew to become a hub for comedy writing and video production. However, under the ownership of IAC, CollegeHumor's attempts to become a giant successful company fell short. In late 2019, Sam Reich seized the opportunity and took over the company, now known as Dropout. The subscription-based platform offers a mix of long-form unscripted and scripted shows, targeting an audience in their early twenties.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
