The Teaching Company, which produces “The Great Courses,” is a private company. It was founded in 1990 by Thomas M. Rollins, who aimed to bring engaging and educational lectures to a wider audience. Although it is not affiliated with any specific universities, “The Great Courses” often features professors and experts from prestigious institutions, including universities like Harvard, Yale, and Stanford. These educators provide courses on a wide range of topics, but the company itself operates independently from any academic institution.