[ZephyrBlu]

Yes, you are. As the article says, you are actually making money and gaining followers.

It's not a ponzi scheme in the literal sense, but these businesses are built off the back of other people who believe they can do what you're doing supporting you (In the article this is by paying for your course).

Some of them will go on to create their own successful businesses (And perpetuate the cycle), but most will most likely fail.

There was a post on Indie Hackers not long ago about a guy who said he lost thousands of dollars trying to build a business. I'm sure there are many more people who got into similar situations.