The Death of the $100 Online Course.

The Harsh Reality of Selling Online Courses

If you’re dreaming of selling an online course to create passive income, here’s what nobody tells you:

You need a massive audience to make it work.

The idea of "build it and they will come" is a myth. Instead, you’ll find yourself trapped in an exhausting cycle of content creation, expensive ads, and low sales conversions.

Even with an engaged brand for 2 years, I struggled to sell courses in a way that could support my family. I invested in professional production, marketing, and promotion—only to see disappointing returns. My revenue was unpredictable, and my time was stretched thin trying to keep my audience engaged.

The bottom line? Online courses demand a high volume of buyers, and without a significant audience, they simply won’t scale the way you hope.

Here’s what many course creators won’t tell you:

• The initial sales don’t last. You put A LOT of effort into promotion, but see little return and consistent revenue. Sure, you get an initial bump in sales, but not long-lasting scale.

• Completion rates are dismal. Less than 10% of students finish most online courses, leading to frustration and dissatisfaction.

• Support demands never end. Buyers expect ongoing help, leading to more customer service than you bargained for.

Let’s consider an example scenario with a $100 course.

Your knowledge isn’t worth limiting to a $100 course (at least, not at first).

It’s better to start with a premium group coaching offer:

Let’s consider an example scenario with a $100 course.

• To earn $1K, you’d have to sell 10.

• To earn $10K, you’d have to sell 100.

• To earn $100K, you’d have to sell 1,000.

Now ask yourself: “Do I have the volume on social media to do this?”

And then ask: “Will my course really drive client transformation?”

Both are important.

But most customers buy courses, barely finish them, let alone do the actual work for the long haul.

Now, let’s consider what it looks like to sell 1, $12K Group Coaching Offer:

• To earn $12K, you’d have to sell 1.

• To earn $120K, you’d have to sell 10.

• To earn $1.2M, you’d have to sell 100.

Here’s the question for reflection:

Would you rather sell something 1,000 times to make $100K or sell something 100 times to make $1.2 million?

I already know your answer.

Courses keep the odds stacked again YOU and THEM.

But in a group coaching model, you get to lock arms with those who are ready for real change. It’s not only a better payment for you, but it’s a better customer — and a better pathway for their success.

They lean into you and you lean into them.

And THAT is what drives transformation.

It compounds even more.

You see, the more transformation you deliver, the more social proof you get. The more social proof you get, the easier it becomes to sell your premium coaching.

It’s the polar opposite of the compounding negative effects of a course.

Why Group Coaching Works Better.

When I shifted my focus to group coaching, everything changed.

With just one premium offer, I created predictable, recurring revenue that allowed me to finally breathe. Unlike courses, which depend on low-ticket sales and volume, group coaching focuses on delivering transformational results to a select group of committed clients.

Here’s why it works better:

• Personalized support drives higher retention and results. Clients stay longer and invest more when they receive direct interaction.

• Pricing is positioned for sustainability. A high-ticket coaching program brings in substantial revenue without needing thousands of customers.

• Marketing becomes simpler. Instead of chasing algorithms, you focus on building real relationships and positioning yourself as an authority.

• Accountability is built-in. Clients feel more committed and stay engaged throughout the program.

• Referrals come naturally. Satisfied clients often bring others onboard, creating organic growth.

The shift allowed me to surpass my previous executive salary and grow beyond my wildest expectations—without the constant stress of trying to "go viral."

How to Make the Switch from Courses to Coaching.

Transitioning from a course model to group coaching isn’t as complicated as you might think. Here are a few steps to get started:

• Identify your ideal client. Who will benefit the most from your expertise?

• Create a results-driven framework. Break down your knowledge into a structured program that ensures success.

• Offer a high-touch experience. Build community and personal connections to create real transformation.

• Sell with confidence. Position your offer as a premium experience that solves a major pain point. This is best done inside a workshop.

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or discouraged then come to my next workshop and I’ll teach you exactly how I do it.

It’s free and you can apply for a spot here: www.coacheswhoclose.com/coachingforcash.

What would happen if you focused on one simple offer instead of trying to scale a course that requires constant attention and marketing?

Before You Go. Read These and Reflect.

1. A big brand isn't required to sell premium group coaching— but it is to sell courses. Coaching clients invest in relationships and trust, not just content.

2. Online courses rely on mass appeal; coaching thrives on deeper relationships. Buyers want accountability, not just information.

3. Selling courses feels "passive," but often turns into an endless hustle. Evergreen funnels aren't as hands-off as they're made to seem.

4. High-ticket group coaching gives you the financial breathing room to grow sustainably. You can focus on fewer clients and deliver real impact.

5. You don't need a large audience— you need a clear offer and the right people. Quality trumps quantity every time.

To your success, my friend.

Ryan