The big business of small streamers

Main Topic: The podcast episode discusses the rise of the streaming service Dropout, its unique approach to comedy, and its loyal fan base. It also explores the challenges faced by niche streaming services like Dropout and how they differ from the big streaming services like Netflix.

Key Points:

• Dropout is a comedy streaming service that has gained a loyal fan base and sold out Madison Square Garden with its show Dimension 20.
• The service has a unique approach to comedy, blending games, improv, and scripted content.
• Dropout's CEO, Sam Reich, is a high school dropout who has created a company that values creativity and community over profit.
• The service has a strong focus on social justice and has faced criticism for its handling of certain issues.
• Niche streaming services like Dropout are experiencing growth, but face challenges such as reaching a wider audience and competing with bigger services.
• Operating outside the traditional Hollywood system may have helped Dropout's success, as it allowed the company to take a more digital-native approach to content creation.

Participants:

• Jesse David Fox, comedy writer and critic for Vulture, who wrote a profile on Dropout.