Why online courses sold by influencers have become so popular

Want to know how to alter thrifted clothes, start your own business or run your first marathon? There’s an online course for that.

Online courses sold by social media influencers have recently exploded in popularity. According to consulting firm Grand View Research, the global digital education market will have an estimated $134 billion in revenue by 2030.

There's an extremely low barrier to entry in creating and selling these courses. Despite that, many are buying in. There are even online courses that teach you how to sell your own online course.

Emily Stewart, a senior correspondent at Business Insider, reported on the phenomenon. She said a lack of faith in traditional higher education coupled with an unstable job market have made selling these courses a successful business model.

Stewart joined “Marketplace” host Kai Ryssdal to talk more about her reporting.

To hear their conversation, click the audio player above.