They exist and thrive on what I'll call "frat bro networking." They're able to become gatekeepers to so many things by using their connections to pull strings.

They exist and thrive on what I'll call "frat bro networking." They're able to become gatekeepers to so many things by using their connections to pull strings. Once they establish themselves in a space, they use standard bullying tactics to stay the gatekeeper. That's how textbooks routinely become $1,000 paperweights each year. That's how brands like Varsity become synonymous with a sport's skill bracket. I've personally lost fights with the giants and know a textbook startup founder that was forced to do a 180 pivot by Pearson.