In the world of business and innovation, it’s often said that pioneers pave the way but settlers reap the rewards. The Learning Annex, however, stands as a remarkable exception. Decades before the rise of online education platforms like Skillshare, Coursera, and MIT OpenCourseWare, Learning Annex founder Bill Zanker was already democratizing education. He envisioned a world where learning wasn’t confined to traditional institutions, offering accessible and skill-focused courses to anyone seeking personal or professional growth, all within a matter of hours.
The Learning Annex defied conventional wisdom in more ways than one. Unlike many pioneering ventures that falter as newcomers adapt and thrive, The Learning Annex, under Zanker’s guidance, continuously evolved. By keenly observing and responding to learners’ changing needs, they’ve consistently innovated their offerings. This commitment to evolution is evident in the recent comprehensive redesign and relaunch of the Learning Annex. What started as a platform featuring celebrity-led evening classes in cities like Manhattan and San Francisco has transformed into a dynamic and adaptable marketplace for knowledge exchange.
Shortly before this relaunch, Bill Zanker shared his insights on the evolving landscape of open education, the modern learner’s insatiable thirst for knowledge, and the innovative models Learning Annex is developing to meet these demands. Zanker resonated with the concept of the “Transformational Consumer,” recognizing the shared drive for knowledge and personal development that fuels both the Transformational Consumer movement and the very foundation of the Learning Annex. His insights revealed a profound understanding of the expertise marketplace, encompassing both the providers and seekers of knowledge. Here are three key takeaways from our conversation:
1. The Demand for Change Fuels Unconventional Learning
“I’ve been advocating for this trend for over 30 years,” Zanker explained. “People desire change, and they need avenues to achieve it. The Learning Annex is now 32 years old. When I started it, the idea of quick learning was quite radical. I argued that learning shouldn’t require a semester-long commitment, and not everyone needs exhaustive information on a subject.”
“In 1980, our evening classes were just two hours long, which was considered extraordinary at the time. People were skeptical, saying, ‘You can’t learn anything in two hours!’ It was seen as impossible.”
“But the trend has shifted. Two hours now seems long. People want to learn in 15 minutes, even 10 minutes. While I appreciate the efforts of other open education companies, I believe many are simply adapting my original model to the internet’s accessibility.”
“Traditionally, finding a class meant searching for local options, fitting into a 6-8 PM slot, and commuting across town, even facing Los Angeles traffic to reach a 7 PM class in Santa Monica. That was the conventional path to knowledge. I built my career on providing accessible information, and it was a successful venture.”
“The internet has revolutionized access. Offering online classes is one way to deliver information, but it’s not the only way. Through the Learning Annex, my goal is to enable people to acquire knowledge in any format they prefer.”
“If someone wants to consult an expert over the phone, that should be an option! Imagine an entrepreneur seeking funding who wants to understand a venture capitalist’s perspective. Being able to have lunch or spend time with them would be invaluable. Even if the VC donates the fee to charity and charges $10,000 for lunch, it’s a worthwhile opportunity!”
“We aim to provide information in every way the consumer wants to consume it.”
2. Personalized, On-Demand Knowledge is Paramount
“Back in 1980, I challenged the notion of lifelong, semester-based learning, suggesting two-hour classes were sufficient,” Zanker reflected. “Now, learning can happen through a lunch meeting, a Skype call, or even a traditional class.”
“The rules have changed; we can reach anyone, anywhere. Previously, a Learning Annex class in New York required physical presence and a Tuesday evening commitment. I now see that as restrictive and outdated, even though it was my own business model.”
“Online classes offer greater flexibility, allowing for virtual attendance and interaction. Live classes still appeal to those seeking in-person engagement. However, I believe the core desire is for information itself, and people want it now. They don’t want to wait for next Tuesday or next month. We empower them to use a credit card to instantly connect with a micro-consultant per minute or hour, or arrange a learning lunch – whatever suits their needs!”
“We’re building a marketplace connecting two groups: those with expertise and those seeking it. We must cater to their preferred methods of exchange. The rigid structure of fixed-time classes is outdated. If that format is desired, it’s still available, but it’s no longer the only option.”
3. The Rise of the “Micro-Consultant”: Everyone Has Expertise to Share
“The other side of this is equally compelling: everyone possesses expertise,” Zanker asserted. “While you might think of you as an expert journalist because of your writing skills, your expertise could also lie in a passion like wine tasting, wine collecting, or gardening.”
“That passion could be valuable to others. I believe everyone in the world has some expertise they can offer. Experts might want to share their knowledge for various reasons – for income, career advancement, or networking.”
“Traditionally, teaching a class involves curriculum development, presentation skills, and finding a venue. This process deters many potential experts. We’re missing out on a vast pool of knowledge because of these barriers.”
“The micro-consulting trend bypasses these hurdles. It’s not about joining a major consulting firm; it’s about monetizing your existing knowledge. We’re showing people that their knowledge itself is valuable and sellable. It’s an alternative to renting out a room or walking dogs – you can sell what you know.”
“My wife, for example, wants to breed bees, a rather unique aspiration. To pursue this, she needed expert guidance. She found a university professor who consults in his spare time. They agreed on a price, and now she has ongoing support throughout the bee-breeding process. This is a micro-consulting arrangement.”
Embracing the Future of Learning with the Learning Annex
Whether you’re seeking expert advice on beekeeping or venture capital, or considering launching your own micro-consultancy, the revitalized Learning Annex offers a platform to connect, learn, and grow. Visit the new Learning Annex to explore the evolving landscape of accessible, on-demand expertise and become part of the micro-consulting revolution.
