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Who are the top course creators dominating online education?

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Course Creators

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If you want to get into online education or level up your course creation, you’re in at the right time. 70% of higher education institutions now offer online courses. There is never a better time to get in.

So, what does it take to stand out in the crowded online education space?  We shared the top 11 course creation coaches recently, and now, we’ll get into the strategies of the best online course creators with practical tips you can apply to your content.

Online course creation evolution

Before we get into individual success stories, let’s discuss why online education has become so powerful. The digital age has changed how we learn; education has never been more accessible. This shift is also transforming online business, offering new opportunities for entrepreneurs to scale their operations. Here’s what’s driving this revolution:

  • Flexible learning options are in demand.

  • Online credentials are accepted.

  • Technology makes remote learning more fun.

  • Traditional education is getting expensive.

  • Continuous skill development in fast-changing industries.

It isn’t just a trend—it’s a fundamental shift in how knowledge is shared and learned. Course creators lead the revolution, shaping how future generations understand and develop their skills.

What makes a top course creator?

Creating online courses isn’t just about being an expert in your field—though that’s important. As an online course creator, consider it a mix of expertise, storytelling, and tech know-how. Here’s what sets the best course creators apart:

Deep expertise

You wouldn’t trust a chef who’s never cooked; students want to learn from someone who knows their stuff. The most successful online course creators have typically spent years in their craft, whether that’s photography, digital marketing, content writing or productivity hacks.

What that looks like:

  • Years of hands-on experience in their field.

  • Industry recognition.

  • Proven results.

  • Staying current with industry trends.

  • Continuous learning.

Content creation

Knowing is one thing—being able to present it is another. Top course creators can:

  • Break down the complex into simple ones.

  • Use storytelling to make lessons sticky.

  • Create multi-format content (videos, infographics, quizzes).

  • Encourage active participation through discussion boards.

  • Develop progressive learning paths that build confidence.

The best creators know engagement isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about creating a learning environment that feels natural and fun. When you take online courses, it’s crucial to audit previous content, understand the needs of potential students, and ensure a well-timed marketing approach.

Technical know-how

You don’t need to be a tech wizard, but you should know how to use learning platforms and essential content creation tools. Understanding various online course software is crucial for effectively creating and selling your courses. The best creators know their way around:

  • Video editing software.

  • Learning management systems.

  • Analytics tools to track student progress.

  • Engagement features like polls and breakout rooms.

  • Social media platforms for promotion.

Online Course Platforms

Choosing the right online course platform is crucial for the success of your online education business. Your selected platform will impact how you create, market, and sell your courses. Here are two of the most popular platforms that have helped countless course creators achieve their goals.

Udemy

Udemy is a powerhouse in online education, boasting over 130 million students and 180,000 courses. This platform is ideal for instructors looking to reach a broad audience. Udemy’s user-friendly interface makes it easy to create and upload course material, whether video, audio, or text-based.

Udemy’s extensive reach and marketing tools make it an excellent choice for instructors who want to sell online courses to a global audience.

Skillshare

Skillshare is another popular online course platform, mainly known for its focus on creative and practical skills. With over 25,000 courses and 5 million students, Skillshare is a go-to platform for learning or teaching new skills.

Skillshare’s focus on community and practical skills makes it an ideal platform for instructors who want to create engaging, hands-on courses.

12 Top Course Creators Across Industries

Ready to get inspired? Let’s examine some of the most successful online course creators in their respective niches. Each of these educators brings something different, and their strategies are gold for aspiring course creators.

Jenna Kutcher: The Digital Marketing Queen

Jenna Kutcher
Photo Source: YouTube

Want to know what it takes to turn expertise into an empire? Jenna Kutcher’s story will show you exactly how. Effective course sales strategies are a critical aspect of her success. This former wedding photographer didn’t just create courses—she built a multi-million dollar educational business through her Digital Course Academy.

What sets her apart:

  • An authentic marketing approach that speaks to entrepreneurs.

  • Focus on sustainable, passive income through digital products.

  • Step-by-step practical course creation and launch guidance.

  • Community support system with active participation.

  • Integration with her “Goal Digger Podcast” for multi-platform reach.

  • Personal branding that builds trust and connection.

Her stats:

  • Over 200,000 students and counting.

  • Multiple 7-figure course launches.

  • Active online community with daily engagement.

  • Industry-leading course completion rates.

  • Student success stories and testimonials daily.

Teaching style:

  • Break down marketing concepts into actionable steps.

  • Share real-world examples from her own business.

  • Templates and swipe files for immediate use.

  • Q&A sessions and community support.

  • Content is updated regularly to stay current.

Ali Abdaal: The Productivity Pro

Ali Abdaal
Photo Source: Youtube

Want to learn productivity from someone who knows? Ali Abdaal went from an educated doctor to a full-time content creator with over 5.9 million YouTube subscribers. His flagship Productivity Masterclass shows you how to turn expertise into education. Ali’s approach to selling online courses emphasizes validating the course idea before creating content and using webinars as practical marketing tools.

What he’s got:

  • Evidence-based approach from his medical background.

  • A 15-lesson course that’s concise and actionable.

  • Scientific research translated into real-world application.

  • Storytelling techniques that make it stick.

  • Presence across multiple platforms (YouTube, Skillshare, website).

  • Academic and practical knowledge.

  • Focus on strategy over theory.

Course structure and delivery:

  • Clear lesson plans with defined outcomes.

  • Real-life examples and case studies.

  • Implementation exercises to build skill.

  • Community accountability systems.

  • Ongoing support across multiple channels.

  • Resource library of tools and templates.

  • Content is updated regularly based on student feedback.

Jessica Hische: The Typography Queen

Jessica Hische
Photo Source: Youtube

Fifteen years of industry experience and collaborations with Wes Anderson and Barnes & Noble. Jessica Hische brings the most expertise to her typography and lettering courses. Her Lettering for Designers program shows you how to turn technical knowledge into education. Her resources and guidance are invaluable for those interested in online course creation.

What’s included:

  • Hands-on, creative projects to build fundamental skills.

  • Behind the scenes from big projects.

  • Community feedback loops.

  • Technical skills + artistic expression.

  • Portfolio building.

  • Industry-specific case studies from big clients.

  • Professional networking.

Teaching style:

  • Step-by-step demonstration.

  • Regular student work critique.

  • Progressive skill building from beginner to advanced.

  • Business skills integrated with creative skills.

  • Developing your style.

  • Regular industry updates.

  • Active community.

Thomas Frank: The Productivity Platform Guy

Thomas Frank
Photo Source: Youtube

With three million YouTube subscribers and counting, Thomas Frank has cracked the code of teaching productivity tools and personal development. Before investing more time and resources into creating course content, it is vital to validate the course idea by putting together a simple sales page and gauging demand through targeted marketing efforts like ads and social media outreach. His Notion Mastery Course shows you how to turn technical expertise into education.

What he’s got:

  • Data-driven approach backed by research.

  • Tool mastery with immediate use.

  • Storytelling approach to simplify complex things.

  • Template library for a quick start.

  • Focus on systems and workflows.

  • Content is updated as tools change.

  • Community support and troubleshooting.

Course structure:

  • Learning path from beginner to advanced.

  • Custom templates for different use cases.

  • Video tutorials step-by-step.

  • Implementation challenges.

  • Community Showcase.

  • Integrates with other tools.

  • Support and updates.

Daniel Scott: Adobe Guru

Daniel Scott
Photo Source: Youtube

Adobe Certified Instructor Daniel Scott has made complex video editing accessible to everyone. His Adobe Premiere Pro CC—Essentials Training Course breaks down technical skills into bite-sized lessons.

What works:

  • Official Adobe certification.

  • The software is up to date with regular updates.

  • Step-by-step instruction.

  • Real-world project integration.

  • Technical coverage of tools.

  • Industry-standard workflows.

  • Updates with new software releases.

Teaching style:

  • Feature-by-feature walkthrough.

  • Practical exercises with real-life applications.

  • Project-based learning with clear outcomes.

  • Technical troubleshooting guides.

  • Industry tips and best practices.

  • Asset and preset library.

  • Ongoing technical support.

Patricia Bright: Financial Education Rockstar

Patricia Bright
Photo Source: Youtube

Want to combine financial expertise with great content? Patricia Bright shows you how. With 2.75 million YouTube subscribers and counting, she’s made complex financial concepts accessible for underrepresented communities.

What’s included:

  • Integration with the Vogue Visionaries series.

  • Business strategies for multiple audiences.

  • Personal brand development across multiple channels.

  • Multi-platform content strategy.

  • Community empowerment and financial literacy.

  • Real-life examples from personal experience.

  • Market updates and trends.

Impact:

  • Millions of followers across platforms.

  • High student pass rate for financial planning.

  • Active community and support.

  • Student success stories from all walks of life.

  • Course growth.

Marques Brownlee: Tech Education Guru

Marques Brownlee
Photo Source: Youtube

19.6 million subscribers. 4.69 billion views. MKBHD has created the blueprint for tech education. His master, Make Compelling Videos That Go Viral, shows you how to turn technical knowledge into content.

What’s different:

  • Industry-leading production quality.

  • Technical explanations for complex things.

  • Community across multiple platforms.

  • Practical application for immediate results.

  • Multi-platform presence with consistency.

  • Updates with new tech.

  • Technical and creative focus.

Teaching style:

  • Step-by-step video creation.

  • High-level demonstration of techniques.

  • Equipment for all budgets.

  • Post-production workflow.

  • Brand building.

  • Community feedback.

  • Industry updates.

Kathy Heller: Creative Business Coach

Kathy Heller
Photo Source: Youtube

Kathy Heller has figured out how to help creatives build a sustainable business through her Don’t Keep Your Day Job podcast and comprehensive coaching programs. Her Get Paid to Be You program perfectly combines business and personal development.

Success:

  • A business that combines creativity and strategy.

  • Building community across multiple channels.

  • Emotional well-being and business growth.

  • Framework for sustainable success.

  • Authentic business growth strategies.

  • Success story showcases.

  • Ongoing support and motivation.

Course includes:

  • Business planning templates and tools.

  • Marketing strategy.

  • Monetization techniques.

  • Personal brand-building exercises.

  • Community support networks.

  • Coaching sessions.

  • Resource library access.

Molly Mahon: Craft Education Rockstar

Molly Mahon
Photo Source: Youtube

Want to see how traditional crafts can work in the digital age? Molly Mahon’s block printing courses show you how. She’s made traditional techniques modern.

What’s unique:

  • Hands-on technique with demonstrations.

  • Sustainable practices and materials.

  • Balance of tradition and innovation.

  • Creativity and personal style.

  • Practical skill development through projects.

  • Community Showcase.

  • Pattern design challenges.

Teaching style:

  • Step-by-step demonstrations.

  • Material selection.

  • Project-based learning.

  • Business tips for crafters.

  • Environmental awareness.

  • Community challenges.

  • Ongoing support and feedback.

Ryan Deiss: Digital Marketing Strategist

Ryan Deiss
Photo Source: Youtube

As CEO of DigitalMarketer, Ryan Deiss has helped create modern digital marketing education. His Digital Marketing Mastery program shows you how to turn marketing theory into strategy.

What works:

  • Data-driven approach with results.

  • Practical implementation for immediate use.

  • Full marketing coverage across channels.

  • Community and support.

  • Adapts to market trends.

  • Case study updates.

  • Industry connections.

Course layout:

  • Learning paths.

  • Workflows.

  • Testing and optimization frameworks.

  • ROI tracking.

  • Templates.

  • Strategy guides.

  • Market updates.

Annie Leibovitz: Photography Legend

Annie Leibovitz
Photo Source: Youtube

Regarding photography education, nobody has more credit than Annie Leibovitz. Her MasterClass shows you how to turn decades of experience into content.

What’s special:

  • Artistic vision development.

  • Behind the scenes of iconic shoots.

  • Storytelling through images.

  • Technical and creative balance.

  • Industry-standard setting.

  • Case studies from famous shoots.

  • Career development.

Teaching style:

  • Concept development.

  • Lighting demonstration and theory.

  • Portrait composition.

  • Studio management.

  • Client interaction.

  • Equipment selection.

  • Post-production workflow.

Each of these course creators has their strengths and strategies. By studying their approaches, you can develop your teaching style that combines their best while staying true to you and your expertise.

Chris Do: Education Pioneer

Chris Do
Photo Source: Youtube

Chris Do is an Emmy-award-winning designer and founder of The Futur. He’s gone from leading a Blind motion design studio to building The Futur. He’s the bridge between creative excellence and business smarts.

What’s special:

  • Emmy award-winning design.

  • 23+ years in the industry.

  • Founder of The Futur.

  • Leadership at Blind Motion Design Studio.

  • Business strategy and creative skills.

  • Career development.

  • Help one billion creatives achieve financial freedom.

Course features:

  • “Logo Design 01” – flagship brand identity course.

  • Business programs for creatives.

  • Typography and design basics.

  • Client negotiation and pricing.

  • Creative leadership.

  • Personal branding.

  • Business systems for designers.

Teaching style:

  • Live design critiques and demonstrations.

  • Business concept breakdowns for creatives.

  • Role-playing for client interactions.

  • Case studies from real client work.

  • Psychology and design principles.

  • Hands-on exercises for immediate use.

  • Community-based learning.

What’s special:

  • Can translate business concepts for creatives.

  • Value-based pricing.

  • Tactical skills and strategic thinking.

  • Design psychology and business strategy.

  • Active community across multiple channels.

  • Live sessions and workshops.

  • Business transparency.

Platform and delivery:

  • The Futur’s learning platform.

  • YouTube channel with millions of subscribers.

  • Private Slack channels.

  • Workshops and webinars.

  • Resource libraries.

  • Multimedia content.

  • Social media presence.

Impact:

  • Thousands of creative entrepreneurs.

  • Global community.

  • High student success rates.

  • Regular success stories from students.

  • Industry recognition and influence.

Business education:

  • Mindset transformation.

  • Business frameworks for creatives.

  • Value-based pricing.

  • Client Acquisition.

  • Project management.

  • Team and scaling.

  • Brand positioning.

Community:

  • Student progress tracking.

  • Peer-to-peer learning.

  • Community challenges.

  • Networking.

  • Mentorship.

  • Success stories.

  • Industry connections.

What you’ll learn:

  • Design skills.

  • Business strategy.

  • Client communication.

  • Pricing and negotiation.

  • Brand building.

  • Team management.

  • Business sustainability.

Chris’ impact on creative education goes beyond teaching design or business. He helps creatives build sustainable careers and stay creative. Through The Futur, he’s created an entire ecosystem for creatives, from technical skills to business mastery.

He’s all about authentic teaching and practical business. He’s become the go-to authority in creative entrepreneurship education. He’s changing how creatives approach their careers and businesses by combining his design skills with business smarts.

How to become a successful online course creator

Ready to join the club? Here’s your roadmap:

Find Your Niche

  • What are you an expert in?
  • Market research
  • Competitor analysis
  • Who is your target audience?
  • What’s your unique value proposition?

Build Your Foundation

  • Content strategy

  • Teaching methodology

  • Course structure

  • Materials design

  • Technical setup

Engage Your Audience

  • Social media presence

  • Free content

  • Email marketing

  • Community building

  • Testimonials and success stories

Launch and Iterate

  • Pilot program
  • Student feedback
  • Content refinement
  • Marketing optimization
  • Scaling
  •  

Capping off

Online education is growing faster than ever, with room for new voices and perspectives. Whether you’re teaching digital marketing like Jenna Kutcher or creative skills like Jessica Hische, start with what you know best and build from there.

Every successful course creator started where you are now. The difference is they took that first step. Selecting the best online course creator can enhance your course design and delivery effectiveness. The e-learning space is growing and changing, so there’s never been a better time to share your expertise.

Your perspective and expertise are valuable, and an audience is waiting to learn from you. Take inspiration from these industry leaders, but don’t forget to bring your unique approach. That’s what will truly set you apart in this digital education space.

About the Author

Mylene Dela Cena

Mylene is a versatile freelance content writer specializing in Video Editing, B2B SaaS, and Marketing brands. When she's not busy writing for clients, you can find her on LinkedIn, where she shares industry insights and connects with other professionals.

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