I *think* the programs like this run by trainers recruiting more trainers and then the trainer gets a cut of anyone s/he brought into the system. I could be totally wrong, but that's the vibe I'm getting. So, to make money, you don't need more students but more trainers that you bring in. Of course, it eventually falls apart - mathematically it cannot make money except for the top tier. And, perhaps all the supplements and yah-yah rah-rah stuff is part of pulling in more people not just to buy, but to sell.
I do think the workouts are real.
And, for what it's worth, I don't think the murder had anything directly connected to business, but personal.
I find business models and business culture interesting....yes, I am that dorky...
jmopinion