Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about using Sidetrain for 1-on-1 mentorship sessions, online courses, and digital products. Whether you're a learner looking to book your first session or a mentor ready to share your expertise, we've got answers to your most common questions below.
Sidetrain connects learners with expert mentors for personalized video sessions. Browse mentors by topic, book a time that works for you, and meet live — no subscription required. Mentors set their own rates starting from $15, and sessions are available in 15, 30, or 60-minute formats. All video sessions run directly in your browser with no downloads needed.
For mentors, Sidetrain provides a complete platform to monetize your expertise. Set your own schedule and rates, get discovered by learners worldwide, and earn the majority of each session fee. You can also create and sell online courses and digital products to build passive income alongside your live sessions.
Questions From Learners
Quick Answers at a Glance
How do sessions work?
Book a mentor, pick a time slot, and join the video session directly in your browser. Sessions are available in 15, 30, or 60-minute formats with no software downloads required.
What does it cost?
Creating an account and browsing is free. Session prices are set by each mentor and typically range from $15 to $500 depending on expertise and duration.
How do mentors get paid?
Mentors receive payouts through Stripe Connect after sessions are completed. Earnings are transferred automatically within 2–7 business days.
What's the refund policy?
Full automatic refunds are issued for mentor no-shows. For cancellations, cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Contact support for other situations.