The first thing they don’t tell you about starting an online business? You’re going to fail — a lot.
The second thing? It’s going to feel like sh*t.
The third? No course can fully prepare you for that feeling.
But do they at least try?
I went through the first two modules of the Digital Wealth Academy (DWA) to find out.
If you want to know why I even signed up for this course, check out this post. Let’s dive right into the “Start Here” and “Mindset” modules.
Are they actually useful, or do they just sell the dream?
The “Start Here” Module: Laying a Foundation or Overselling the Possibility?
This module gives a broad overview of what you’ll be learning.
- The three ways to make money online — promoting products, affiliate marketing, or selling your own digital product.
- How sales funnels work — low-ticket vs. high-ticket models.
- Instagram optimization — setting up your profile for conversions.
At first glance, it looks like a solid introduction to digital marketing. But once you dig deeper, things get a little more complicated.
Failure Is Mentioned — But It’s Rebranded as a Stepping Stone
The instructor mentions failure, but sees it as a step toward success. It’s like a rite of passage.
- He talks about his many business failures before he found success. This gives a realistic and valuable view.
- He emphasizes the need to embrace discomfort and face challenges, which is also solid advice.
- But here’s the issue — it also implies that success is inevitable if you simply keep going.
Is that true? Not necessarily.
The reality is that not everyone who sticks with it makes it. Some people stay stuck for years. Some realize it’s not for them. But this nuance isn’t really addressed — it’s just “keep pushing, and you’ll get there.”
Success Stories Can Inspire, But They Might Mislead
The instructor talks about making $500,000 in eight months and scaling an eight-figure company.
He insists this isn’t to “impress” but to “impress upon” people what is possible.
For motivation? It works.
For setting realistic expectations? Not so much.
For beginners, this sets the bar insanely high and might create an “If he did it, why can’t I?” mindset. Most people won’t scale that quickly. If we don’t address what allows for those fast wins, it seems a bit exaggerated.
Testimonials Are Everywhere — But There’s No Talk About Selection Bias
Like most courses, DWA uses testimonials to sell the dream.
I don’t think they’re fake.
But they definitely oversell the success rate.
It’s easy to think, “If they did it, I can too.” But how many students actually succeed? What percentage fail? That’s not something you’ll find here.
Bottom line?
A good starting point, but too much “this is easy” energy. If you’re new, you might buy into it. But you’ll quickly realize this is way harder than they make it seem.
The Mindset Module: Powerful or Just Another Motivational Talk?
I’ll admit — when I saw “mindset” in the curriculum, I rolled my eyes.
“Oh great, another ‘just believe in yourself’ coach speech.”
But I’ll give them credit — this module actually has depth.
The Mindset Shifts Are Actually Valuable
This isn’t just “think positive and everything will work out” nonsense.
- It helps people get past mental blocks that keep them from acting.
- It urges people not to compare their Chapter 1 to someone else’s Chapter 20. Many beginners need to hear this message.
- It sees challenges as part of the journey, not reasons to give up.
The “Who Are You Fighting For?” Exercise Is Surprisingly Effective
I didn’t expect much from this, but it’s actually a solid tool for staying motivated.
Why? Because early-stage failure makes you question everything.
For me, that motivation is my parents. I want them to have a peaceful, financially stress-free life. That’s what keeps me going when things feel impossible.
So, credit where it’s due — this is one of the stronger parts of the module.
The “University Analogy” for Promoting Products Is Flawed
One of the strangest parts of the mindset training is this idea:
“You should promote a product before you’ve made money from it, just like university students recommend their school before getting a job.”
Why this comparison doesn’t work:
- A degree offers more than just money. It provides education, networking opportunities, and important credentials.
- A digital marketing course is sold on the promise of making money.
- If you haven’t made money from it yet, what exactly are you selling?
They’re not the same thing, and the comparison doesn’t hold up.
Bottom line?
More useful than I expected, but it simplifies the struggle. Early failure isn’t just a step — it’s a mental battle most people aren’t ready for.
Final Verdict: Are These Modules Actually Useful?
They lay out a basic roadmap.
Mindset shifts are useful and help you overcome doubts.
They make it sound easier than it actually is.
No real talk about the emotional toll of failure.
Would I recommend them?
Yes — but only if you go in with realistic expectations.
Because the first real lesson in online business?
Most of it is trial and error. And no course can fully prepare you for that.
