The Ride of Life is, in essence, a ride for the Yellow Rose, a ride Randy Smith is taking across the United States in memory of his beautiful wife, Sophia Smith, known nationwide as Avon’s Yellow Rose.

A top saleswoman for Avon, Sophia succumbed to ALS in April of 2013 after a 28-month battle with the debilitating disease. Before she died, Avon honored this fiery executive with its first Yellow Rose Award, given to Avon leaders who demonstrate courage, strength, dignity and perseverance.

The corporate giant also created the Sophia Smith Yellow Rose pendant, donating all proceeds of its sales to the ALS Therapy Development Institute.

Avid motorcyclists, Sophia and Randy always dreamt of riding their beloved Harleys from coast-to-coast, “dipping a toe in each ocean,” Randy says.  Unfortunately, Sophia was never able to realize that dream because her disease progressed so rapidly.

So instead, the petite dynamo used her last months of life to give ALS a face and a voice, tenaciously speaking out about this largely unknown and under-researched disease, maintaining that “someone has to stand up and fight.”

On June 1st of this year, her husband, Randy Smith; left their home in Victoria, Texas on his Harley with one mission in mind: he plans to drive his motorcycle around the entire country and raise money to have a hospice named after Sophia so she will not be forgotten.

On July 12th Avn Top Earner Lisa Wilber will be welcoming Randy for a special event behind the Avon Store in Weare to show our support for his ride and help him raise funds for this very special mission he is on.

To learn more about Randy's ride: www.rideoflife.org.  To learn more about the July 12th event: LWilber@aol.com or 603-345-9466

Mannatech, Incorporated, the pioneer of nutritional glycobiology , and leading innovator of naturally-sourced supplements based on Real Food Technology solutions , and creator of the M5MSM (Mission 5 MillionSM) social entrepreneurial movement, has appointed Al Bala to serve as President. The move further supports the company’s commitment to its growth on a global level.

Alfredo (Al) Bala joined Mannatech in October 2007 as Senior Vice President, Global Sales. His responsibilities increased quickly within the company, having served as Executive Vice President, Sales, and Chief Sales and Marketing Officer at different times over his tenure. Mr. Bala has always been at the center of the company’s global sales and marketing efforts, streamlining the company’s efforts to better support the individual sales Associate worldwide.

Mr. Bala has served in the direct sales industry for more than 35 years. Prior to his time at Mannatech, he served as a field leader in the industry for 28 years, culminating in the position of Chief Operating Officer for one of the largest independent network marketing organizations in the world. He has been a critical part of the launch and re-launch of more than 60 international markets in his career, including Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. His unique experience has also allowed him to gain experiences at both the field and corporate levels.

As President, Al Bala will oversee all global field development, sales, marketing and general management efforts for all Mannatech markets (currently 23). He will work closely with each market’s general manager, assuring proper leadership of each market that both addresses the needs of the individual countries while still maintaining a consistent business model and message for Mannatech across the world.

Ultimately, Mr. Bala will focus on expansion of the company’s Mission 5 Million movement, which allows consumers to help nourish a child-in-need by simply nourishing themselves with the purchase of a Mannatech product on automatic order.

“Mannatech is celebrating its 20th year. I’ve had the privilege of being a part of this company for seven of those years,” explains Al Bala, President. “I’ve never been more excited about how the company is poised than I am right now. The value we provide to the market while still offering nutritional products of the highest integrity and efficacy is simply unprecedented.

Our global footprint and seamless compensation plan position us for international strength. And our unique technology places us in two categories that are key for the future: wellness and anti-aging. These are very exciting times for Mannatech, and I’m anxious to help our independent Associates capitalize on what lies ahead.”

“Mannatech continues to experience a fundamental shift in our global business,” explains Dr. Robert Sinnott, CEO and Chief Science Officer. “Over the last few years we have seen business outside North America become a larger share of our global business.

This is a healthy shift that is necessary to become a diverse global community. Mr. Al Bala has been a very innovative force for Mannatech over the last several years. His global experiences and strong working relationships with our general managers and global sales force will help foster this global shift.”

For the first quarter 2014, Mannatech reported that operations outside of North America accounted for approximately 52.8% of consolidated net sales (compared to 50.8% for first quarter 2013). During this same timeframe, Asia/Pacific net sales increased by 6.7%, and EMEAA net sales increased by 8.8%.

Individuals interested in Mannatech’s products or exploring its business opportunity are encouraged to learn more at Mannatech.com .

About Mannatech

Mannatech, Incorporated, develops high-quality health, weight and fitness, and skin care products that are based on the solid foundation of nutritional science and development standards. Mannatech is dedicated to its platform of Social Entrepreneurship based on the foundation of promoting, aiding and optimizing nutrition where it is needed most around the world.

Mannatech’s proprietary products are available through independent sales Associates around the globe including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Austria, Denmark, Germany, Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, Estonia, Finland, the Republic of Ireland, Czech Republic, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Hong Kong and Namibia. For more information, visit Mannatech.com .

European industry icons Stephen and Lani Clark have had tremendous success launching and building teams over the past 14 years. Their most recent success was as catalyst leaders to the most historic launch of any direct sales company in United Kingdom history, bringing a North American weight loss and fitness challenge to the UK. The dynamic couple has now made Vemma their home.

The heart of Vemma is a perfect fit for the Clarks, who value people before profit. Meeting Vemma Founder and CEO BK Boreyko and the top tier staff of Vemma convinced Stephen and Lani that Vemma is a superb company with a relaxed, intelligent and directed philosophy that affords a genuine, substantial and lasting opportunity to change lives.

Stephen commented, "I was looking for that elusive 'legacy' company. One that has stood the test of time; one that has a unified product range of such excellence as to change lives; one that rolls with the times — look at Verve. One that has all of the administrative, branding, marketing and business acumen and experience to not only grow substantially, but to endure."

John C. Maxwell says it best, “Everything rises and falls on leadership.” The Clarks and their team are very excited to partner with top industry leaders, Tina and Ken Hockmuth, to help their team create legacies with Vemma. 

Tina Hockmuth shared, "The culture of a company is always a reflection of the leadership. 'People before profits' is a hard motto to live up to. Meeting BK Boreyko and several of the top tier staff convinced Stephen and Lani that they have found a legacy company, a home with a superb product line which serves the customer and a leadership which serves the distributor base. The Clarks want to add their own Verve to the service of others!”

The Clarks are entering the pre-launch phase of their team along with the Vemma Affiliate launch in the United Kingdom.

Vemma, which experienced unprecedented growth of 89 percent in 2013 alone, is on the fast track to success, recently hosting more than 10,000 Affiliates at its “All In” Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada in April and launching Verve ReMIX™, the newest insanely healthy energy beverage in its line of Verve products. Competitively priced, ReMIX is already the biggest launch in company history

About Vemma

Founded in 2004 by BK Boreyko, Vemma Nutrition Company is rapidly growing as one of the premier industry leaders specializing in premium liquid nutrition. Every week, thousands of new customers experience the positive difference of the clinically studied Vemma formula. 

The Vemma brands include Verve, a healthy energy drink and Bod-e, a weight loss line. Vemma is headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, and distributes its products through a global network of Affiliates. For more information, please visit vemma.com.

The recorded greeting on their voicemail machine sums up the positive attitude of Carlos Gonzalez and Limary Figueroa:

 Hello, today is a great day to make a difference…

Having just achieved the Vi National Director rank and leading by example in the Latino community, that’s exactly what this married couple is doing—improving people’s life, health and prosperity. And that difference has been life-changing. Especially for Carlos, Limary, and their two sons.

Walk by Faith

Two years ago when Limary asked Carlos to attend a Challenge party with her, he told her ‘no.’ As a cancer survivor, she knew the importance of being healthy. Thinking this party could start him down a path to losing weight, Limary asked two more times.

Third time was a charm. It was there when Carlos learned about the entrepreneurial opportunity to promote The Challenge. He had no industry experience, but he did have something else: faith. Earlier, he had prayed for God to offer him a new way to grow. He saw Vi as the opportunity.  And so he took it.

Although Limary was working for a multi-level marketing company, she also decided to walk by faith and left her job a few months later to join Vi. “I was able to work alongside my husband for the first time,” she says. After teaming up with Carlos, Limary qualified for the Regional Director rank 29 days later, and they earned their BMW. Their team has been growing ever since.

Flip Flops for Africa

Carlos and Limary are steadily focused on bettering people’s lives throughout the world. In fact, as part of a 12-day missions trip through the Orphan’s Heart international childcare program, Limary brought shoes to the orphaned children in Africa.

“I went to Africa because I felt God wanting to break me down so He could build me back up,” she says. “And He did. I found my ‘Why’ there. I realized we’re all here to love and help others—not just ourselves. It’s why I’ve decided to use the money from our ND check to buy flip flops to send to Africa. Also, when I achieve Vi’s Ambassador rank, we’ll use the earnings to open an orphanage in Africa. We feel so blessed that God is using us as a vessel to help others.”

It’s the ability to help children on their journey to healthier lifestyles that inspire Carlos and Limary. They have experienced the benefits… in their own family.

“Our 10-year-old son, Christopher, was struggling with his weight and was bullied at school,” Limary says. “He cried every day. But then we helped put him on a healthier path, and he lost the excess weight. Life is so much brighter for him. Through PROJECT 10 Kids, we can help so many children (and families) who are going through what we went through. Now, Christopher shares his story at our Challenge parties. It’s the heart of what we all do.”

A Story of Hope

Carlos and Limary have a lot of reasons to be excited about their future. In addition to creating a thriving Vi family in Florida, they have already built a big team in Puerto Rico that is continually growing.

“We’re thrilled to announce that one of our newest team members, Johanna Peña became a National Director—in only one month,” says Limary. “Also, it’s very encouraging to see that two of our local Promoters, Faith Pearson McKenize and Linda Curry, just earned their BMWs within their first month of joining forces with us.”

Carlos and Limary know their purpose. Their mission is clear. Their results are inspiring. And their passion and perseverance are stronger than ever before.

“This business is completely aligned with our faith and enables us to transform others,” says Carlos. “Our story is a story of hope and about not giving up. Never give up. Remember that it’s not about you. It’s about the people you can empower and help along the way.”

*Achievement in weight loss depend upon many factors such as exercise, discipline and determination.

About ViSalus

ViSalus, Inc. is a healthy lifestyle company that is dedicated to Challenging the World… 10 lbs. at a Time. Founded in 2005, ViSalus develops high-quality weight-management products and nutritional supplements that it markets and sells direct-to-consumers through an international sales force of independent promoters.

ViSalus markets its products in North America under the ViSalus^® brand and in Europe under the Vi^™ brand, through the Body by Vi Challenge^®. ViSalus is headquartered in Los Angeles, California and Troy, Michigan and is majority-owned by Blyth, Inc. (NYSE: BTH). For more information about ViSalus, please visit vi.com and follow the Vi-Community on Facebook and Twitter.

You don’t have to be a sales pro or marketing guru to succeed with Talk Fusion. If anyone exemplifies this fact, it’s Talk Fusion Diamond Elite Associate Anna Tsarnenko of Russia.

Before Talk Fusion, Anna worked as a chief specialist at a large bank for eight years. With a baby on the way, Anna took a maternity leave towards the end of her banking career. While on leave, she found herself with a great deal of time at home. When her friend Natalya Tarkhova sent her a link to Talk Fusion’s Business Opportunity Presentation, Anna attended with a curiosity that would eventually transform her life.

“Natalya told me about Talk Fusion and how I could earn a second source of income from the Internet,” said Anna. “With a small child on the way, it seemed like a great opportunity to provide for the future.”

After learning about the potential of Talk Fusion’s innovative Video Communication products—how she could literally work and earn income from anywhere in the world—Anna realized what a solid opportunity she had on her hands. She joined Talk Fusion immediately.

Anna quickly learned Talk Fusion’s easily duplicable principles of success under the mentorship of Natalya, who was now her upline sponsor. By actively applying these principles, Anna experienced a rapid ascent to success as she built a growing team of Associates who would share the company’s proven opportunity and innovative products just as she had with them.

“I couldn’t imagine the financial results I would achieve in just a few months,” said Anna.

“In five months, I qualified for the Mercedes Madness incentive and bought a silver Mercedes with payments made by Talk Fusion. After eight months, I achieved the rank of Diamond.”

In just under a year, Anna had reached the highly distinguished rank of Diamond Elite. Along the way, she earned a twice-yearly luxury vacation to Hawaii courtesy of the company’s Dream Getaway incentive and the financial freedom to provide a very bright future for her new son.

Today, Anna leads a large international team of Associates as she travels the world and enjoys a new life outside the confines of the traditional 40-hour workweek. For her, this is only the beginning.

“We have such an incredible future ahead at Talk Fusion,” said Anna. “Bring a real desire to change your financial well-being and you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve with this company.”

The perfect MLM elevator pitch or elevator speech is a small message that packs a punch.

Elevator Speech

Definition: A very concise “teaser” of your life that is laced with clues on who you are and what you do in order to generate enough interest and intrigue that others will want to know more about what you do, all in the time it takes to ride an elevator—say, 30 seconds to 2 minutes!

Now that you know what an Elevator Speech is, here are 6 tips for mastering it. The Elevator speech is a courtesy of Brian Gill - Vice president Marketing Communications MonaVie.

1. The intro: observe, care, & cater

Gone are the days of meticulously developing one single elevator speech that will presumably cover every situation. Rote messages are comparable to receiving an email from some prince in a mysterious village that wants to share his riches with you.  You didn’t sign up for his email, but it came any way, out of the blue, without any consideration.

So before you plow ahead with your in-person spam and blurt out a prepared message, you must always assume that the person you are talking to is tuned in to WIIFM (What’s in It For Me?). So make it about them and focus in on their needs.

• First, observe… their dress, their eyes, their facial expression, what their holding…etc. What’s unique about them?
• Second, care… about them. As you are observing them do so without judgment or scrutiny. In order for this to work, you have to care. Besides, the person next to you—with layers peeled away—is really not all that different from you.
• Third, cater… your first question. After you have consciously done the first two steps, you should be able to easily tailor your question toward the individual. Here are some examples: “That’s a nice suit, what do you do for a living?” “Looks like you are headed to the gym; where do you go?”

This first step is all about being interested.

2. The segue: start with an interesting opening line

Listen intently to the person's response to your lead question. Their response is part of their story, part of their experience, part of who they are. Empower that connection by listening and responding. 

And, don’t be surprised if the same question you asked boomerangs back to you. When this happens, it’s time to tell your story, and all the best stories in history begin with an interesting, if not intriguing, opening line. Check these out, for example:

It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife. — Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times… — A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens

Somewhere in la Mancha, in a place whose name I do not care to remember, a gentleman lived not long ago…. — Don Quixote by Miguel de Cervantes

In my younger and more vulnerable years my father gave me some advice that I've been turning over in my mind ever since. — The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

So, what’s your opening line? What’s the beginning of your story? Here are some possible examples: “You know, I work for the kind of company where everybody is rewarded for their contributions and not their title.” “I spend my time helping others earn an extra $500 a month by becoming sharers and givers.” “I love working out just as much as I love mixing up a delicious protein shake afterward for recovery.”

3. The unadorned: keep it simple & remove bloated sentences

However you begin or end, remember to keep it simple. The ease of what you do, what your life is like, and where you are now needs to sound seamless.

Use words and phrases that elicit interest from your prospect, and not words that mean something to you—given you are already a MonaVie distributor! Don’t dive into Active vs. Qualified jargon or use complex direct selling terminology that will confuse the person.

Simplify your message and confidently broadcast how fun and easy MLM can be. And much like you began, you will want to end with an intriguing cliff hanger to prompt a response. 

“I spend my time helping others earn an extra $500 a month or more by becoming sharers and givers. It’s truly been one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done. Plus, the products we share are incredible. I started doing it part time two years ago, and I’ve never looked back. It’s something that has given me the opportunity to pursue my passion and have extra time to spend with my family.”

4. The call to action: presenting the next steps

If you have an intriguing opening line and hook, the person you are talking to might naturally begin asking you questions. This is ideal, because you will know by their questions that your elevator speech has done its job at piquing their interest and you can naturally move toward setting up a meeting. 

But if the person you are talking to doesn’t respond by asking questions, you can insert a clear and concise call-to-action question at the end.

Example: “You’re no different from me, and I’ll bet this is something you can do and excel at as well. Can I call or email you tonight with more information?” Or, “Will you come to a free meeting with me tomorrow to learn more and taste the product?”

Because time is tight, your goal is to meet them again under more favorable circumstances. A crowded subway or elevator is not the place to outline everything. 

5. The technique: practice, record, & repeat

Nothing can be more powerful than watching yourself in action. Professional athletes watch tapes of themselves in order to improve the fine intricacies of their golf swing, pitching motion, swimming stroke, or overall timing. Hollywood stars do the same thing to make sure their facial expressions and movements fit the character they're portraying. 

You need to do the same. Create a real-life situation and set up your phone or camera and record yourself giving your elevator speech to a friend or spouse. Then replay the recording to watch yourself in action and visually see what you may need to improve upon.

• Do you talk too much with your hands?
• Do you avoid making eye contact?
• Do you tend to sway back and forth when you talk?
• Do you sound overly excited vs. passionate?
• Do you sound monotone?

To polish it up even more, get feedback by asking your upline to hear your speech. They may be able to offer some amazing tweaks.

Then practice it again and again and again, until you feel confident and comfortable. Notice that we didn’t say “until your speech is perfected.” Truth be told, you will always feel a little bit nervous when approaching a complete stranger, and authenticity will actually go a longer way than an absolutely perfect speech. But as you practice your speech, this will become easier and more comfortable.

Just don’t get hung up on being perfect, because once you get the basics down, you can work on changing it up and adapting it to different situations and personality types. You want to get to the point where you can begin practicing emotional, humorous, serious, casual, or hurried approaches.

6. The waiter: serve the rest of the "tables"

Finally, remember that just because you are practiced and polished, it doesn't mean everyone will automatically be drawn in and say Yes. Some people will still say No, and that's okay. Learn what you need to learn from the experience and get ready to reach out to the next person.

The main thing is to not take rejection personally, which is so easy to say. Personal rejection is one of the toughest things to experience, and some rejections are harder to swallow than others. Dealing with rejection is an ongoing task. However, accepting a No is merely part of the process for finding those who say Yes.

Think of yourself as a waiter offering coffee to customers throughout an entire restaurant. Some customers will say "no, thanks" or "I have plenty" or even, "Ugh. I hate coffee!" But the waiter doesn't stop serving the rest of the customers, because three people said No. They continue to offer the coffee, searching for those who would like to have what they are offering.  

And that's pretty similar to what you are doing. By using your elevator speech, you are providing the person with enough information so they can see if what you are offering is right for them and for their life at that particular time. If the answer is No, then don't be afraid to approach the next "table."

——

In the summer of 2012 Ray Wuerch launced Solavei in the USA, and stated:

“We are going to make a difference in people’s lives by shifting billions of dollars from traditional mass-media advertising into the greatest advertising vehicle today – people. Solavei is the first company to create an economic linkage between mobile service, social commerce and social-networking technology.

We give people the opportunity to earn income by using and promoting the services they are already consuming each and every day.”

In October 2013 Solavei announced: "that it has attracted 250,000 members since its launch last September. 

"It is also on a annualized revenue run rate of $67 million, based on revenue figures from Sept. 2013"

In May 2014 Solavei was named winner of the 2014 Red Herring Top 100 Award.

On June 11 Solavei has filed for bankruptcy.

Sherman E. Unkefer III's years of living lavishly at the expense of his many fraud victims appear finished. No more investments in gold companies, no more international travel — unless it's as a fugitive.

The 69-year-old gold-and-juice millionaire from Scottsdale — whose infamous white-collar criminal case in Maricopa County Superior Court still is open and active after nearly 30 years — apparently has met his match. County Attorney Bill Montgomery has put a forfeiture sharpshooter on the case: Reid Pixler, formerly of the Arizona U.S. Attorney's Office and the man who set up a successful court system in Mosul, Iraq.

Pixler's now a prosecutor in Montgomery's office and is nailing Unkefer on behalf of at least 1,334 victims. There may be hundreds more.

Montgomery and Pixler are going after Unkefer and his associates for treble damages — nearly $54 million — in a newly unsealed civil RICO court action. Unkefer's company and assets have been put in receivership. A special web page has been created on the County Attorney's website to let the public know what is happening with the case and, it's hoped, attract further victims who may yet see some of their losses repaid.

New Times has followed the sordid story of Unkefer and his ex-gold-dealing partner, Jim Clark of Republic Monetary Exchange, since learning in 2010 that the two were back in business. They provided the foundation for a cover story on the modern-day gold craze, which since has died down.

The article exposed Unkefer's previously secret connection to Clark's high-profile business at 40th Street and Camelback Road. Those with long memories may remember that Unkefer was infamous as the scoundrel behind the 1982 collapse of billion-dollar Phoenix gold firm North American Coin and Currency. He'd received a 10-year prison sentence in 1989 for his role in ripping off clients. Hundreds of bags of silver or gold coins in the company's vaults had disappeared.

Now-retired Judge Gloria Ybarra told him during sentencing that he had a lack of concern for his former customers, many of whom suffered severe financial losses, and she was making an example of him because she felt too few white-collar criminals saw the inside of a prison.

But after his release from prison in 1996, Unkefer made a second fortune in a shady multi-level marketing scheme in the 2000s, structuring his assets to dodge a $7.5 million restitution order left over from the gold scandal. (The amount was the maximum allowed under state law; actual losses for victims exceeds $18 million.)

New Times published a follow-up cover story and several blog posts on Unkefer and Clark since the original piece. Unkefer's stepson, Mark Davidson, named as a key information source in court documents referring to the still-sealed 173-page complaint, says he credits our 2010 exposé on the business partners with inspiring him and his brother to keep digging into Unkefer's long paper trail, the suspicious contents of which were then handed over to county prosecutors, leading to the new civil action.

The County Attorney's Office has been on the case since 2007. Three years before our first article, the MCAO remembered that Unkefer should have paid restitution from his criminal case. Prosecutor Davina Bressler, initially assigned to the case, was replaced by Pixler as it grew in complexity.

Unkefer and his late wife, Sharon, had set up a trust fund to protect the fortune they'd made through their highly successful XanGo Juice distributorship. In 2008, Unkefer used $200,000 from the trust to become a partner in Republic Monetary Exchange. Though Unkefer had written personal checks for the 30 percent investment, Clark later turned on his partner, whom he told New Times was a "close, personal friend."

Clark was Unkefer's right-hand man at North American Coin and Currency, but he escaped punishment after that business went bankrupt, leaving thousands without their bullion. Clark also served prison time — eight months for scamming clients at his own gold firm, Sheffield Metals. He'd been banned from the gold business until 2006. Unkefer sued Clark in 2012 for allegedly failing to pay him agreed-upon profits from Republic Monetary Exchange, and Clark's son, Jim Jr., defected to Unkefer's side.

It wasn't just New Times that inspired the Davidson brothers to dig through the labyrinth of business documents discovered in their own lawsuit against Unkefer — for a while, Clark had paid them to do it, according to Mark Davidson, who lives in California. He and brother Harley, a Valley-based musician who plays in the San Diego "voodoobilly" band Deadbolt, believe Unkefer hastened their mother's death in 2008 by failing to get her proper medical care, instead relying on the supposedly miraculous powers of XanGo Juice.

"That snake oil killed my mom," Harley told us in 2012.

The Davidsons' suit targeted not Unkefer exactly but Mango Trust, which Unkefer had shared with their mother and which was managed by San Diego attorney Todd Hall and the law firm Teeple Hall. As part of the discovery in that case, the Davidsons were sent a "document dump  . . . it was like an Encyclopedia Britannica with all the pages mixed up," Mark Davidson says. "They sent us stuff they didn't think we'd go through. I went through every single page."

In court documents unsealed earlier this month, Pixler states that as the county prepared to litigate the slow-moving restitution case against Unkefer, he began to receive new evidence from Mark Davidson that the Mango Trust was "used by Unkefer to conceal potentially as much as $20 million from victims, creditors, the government, including the IRS; and the [county Superior Court]," records state.

Though the complaint remains under seal, Pixler reveals in one court filing that it shows Unkefer used family members and professionals to conceal income from their XanGo company, apparently moving assets to countries around the world — including Malaysia, Switzerland, South Africa, and Caribbean nations.

Pixler told the court that Unkefer had tried to raid the assets of Mango Trust, and further evidence revealed that he and his girlfriend, Laundy (his former daughter-in-law), were planning to flee the United States.

The county RICO complaint also alleges that Unkefer "used a hidden cache of precious metals and coins believed to have been stolen from NACC [for] expensive cars, jewelry, and travel," according to the County Attorney's Office.

Named in the complaint are Unkefer, XanGo LLC, Mango Trust, Mango Ltd., Laundy Unkefer, Grant Teeple, Todd Hall, Teeple Hall LLP, Theresa Lee, Adrian Taylor, Jean-Luc Merat, Jerry Whitmore, Richard and Karol O'Brien, a foreign fiduciary company, Derrick Raynes, Raynes' wife, and Alexandria Monique Unkefer Raynes.

"[Unkefer] has finally run out of tricks," Montgomery said in audio released from his office.
"We intend to vigorously pursue him and his co-conspirators to recover funds his victims are entitled to and to impose an appropriate penalty for his efforts to evade his court-ordered obligations."

Source: www.blogs.phoenixnewtimes.com

With no network marketing experience and no formal sales training, most people would find it easy to say “No” to entrepreneurial opportunities. But, Ernest and Sherita Ross said “Yes.”

They said “Yes” to passion. “Yes” to helping people become healthier through the PROJECT 10™ Challenge. “Yes” to leading team members towards financial freedom. “Yes” to quickly rising the ranks to become Vi (ViSalus)  5-Star Ambassadors and earn the Vi 2013 MVP Award.

And now, Ernest and Sherita can say “Yes” to… $1 million in Vi career earnings in only 24 months*.

Their story shows how dreams can become a reality. They’re the epitome of just keeping it simple, challenging people in inspirational ways, and having a whole lot of fun.

Ernest, in one word, what does becoming a Vi Millionaire mean to you?

Freedom.

Throughout the past couple of years, what’s been one of your most inspirational moments as Vi Promoters?

In March of last year, when we were standing on the Vi Event stage and looking out into the crowd, I [Ernest] realized that it wasn’t just about leading our team… We were now leading Vi. Huge responsibility and huge honor.

What advice would you give people who want to get to where you are?

I’d give them my ABC’s of marketing:

• ‘A’ is for Ardent. That means you need to have passion.
• ‘B’ is for Bulletproof. Don’t let the word ‘no’ deter you.
• ‘C’ for Consistent. Continually work hard and share The Challenge.

What’s one thing that many people don’t know about you in terms of life before Vi?

At one point in my life, I quit dreaming. The best part about joining Vi is that it was the bridge to dream again. And not just dream…but dream bigger. I now have the lifestyle of a professional athlete but the impact of a humanitarian. 

*Results not typical. Achievement in rank and income depends upon many factors such as hard work, determination, financial resources and social contacts.

Richard Kall, who made est. $140 million as Nu Skin distributor has joined NuVerus as Master Distributor.

Since joining Nu Skin International in 1985, he has made tens of millions of dollars as his downline organization has expanded to hundreds of thousands of people.

According to Richard Kall's website:

"Richard Kall has positively changed the lives of thousands of people in Multi Level Marketing History. He has built organizations that generate Billions of dollars around the world.

Richard Kall has been sought after by many companies to come and help them to grow to the next level. He finally has found the perfect company to help others reach financial freedom. The company is called NuVerus.

Richard has not been this excited about any company. NuVerus offers a new beginning with unlimited opportunities. Richard has chosen to bring his leadership and passion to the company as the Master Distributor for the United States.

Richard is starting his greatest legacy in the MLM industry now with NuVerus. He has earned millions-upon-millions in this industry and plans to break every record by helping more people reach their goals and dreams. He has often said: “There is not one dime that I could earn that could change my lifestyle.” I am in this to change the lives and lifestyles of everyone I come in contact with through the power of Multi Level Marketing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kjf6hEg0ZuA

Today there is one company in the industry that stands above all others with the opportunity to achieve your dreams and that is NuVerus. The company has a proven business building system for distributors to follow. Even if you’ve never been involved in network marketing before, you can follow this system and achieve your goals.

One of the things that excites Richard the most, is the Company’s C.E.O. and founder Michael Jareou. Richard states: “Wait until you hear his story and where he comes from; he is one in a million. That is the biggest thing that attracted me to this company. I spent over 60 hours with Michael. He is the only person I know that can keep up with me. We both require almost no sleep.

GET READY!

“You and no one else in the Universe controls your destiny! You and you alone. You are a free person. There is no one like you. Believe in yourself, and everyone will follow you.”- Richard Kall

NuVerus International is a company that combines ancient wisdom with modern science, and promotes health, prosperity and financial freedom to improve the overall well-being of others; a company whose very name means, “New life”. Currently in 20 countries, NuVerus plans to expand to 100 countries over the next 4 years.

The NuVerus mission is to help you achieve optimal health and wellness. Through NuVerus’ groundbreaking products, we promote wellness throughout the world. NuVerus International, the Fastest Growing Company in the World, has developed the world’s most advanced SuperFood formula (Organic Anti-Oxidant Beverages, Weight loss Products, Safe, Organic Energy drink based on Green Tea, Preventative Nutrition, Cosmetic) complete with full USDA Organic Certifications.

NuVerus isn’t just helping people live healthier lives; it’s also helping them build financial freedom. The Prosperity Plan is a unique platform with proven success that will enable people to have multiple streams of income."

QNET, a prominent Asian direct selling company, has entered the buoyant direct selling sector in Georgia by opening a new Agency office in Tbilisi City recently.

The company, which uses an e-commerce platform, is optimistic that the direct selling industry in Georgia will grow big as such a positive trend is noticeable for emerging economies.

With direct selling gaining popularity, Georgia is seen as having good potential to become a leading market in the region.

According to the World Federation of Direct Selling Associations (WFDSA), global retail sales from direct selling in 2012 grew 5.4 percent, year-on-year, rising to US$166.9 billion.

“QNET firmly believes that there is nothing more empowering to individuals than the financial freedom that a career in the direct selling industry provides, and we believe Georgian people, with their ambition and strong sense of entrepreneurship, will appreciate the products we sell and the business opportunities we offer,” said Haldun Arin, Chief Executive Officer of QNET.

QNET’s new agency office is located in the heart of Tbilisi’s business district with following address: No 6, Marjanishvili street. The Tbilisi office will act as the main support center for QNET in Georgia and also will help raise the profile of its business in neighbouring countries. Specifically, it will serve the needs of growing regional market and to meet the increasing demand of Georgian customers by providing consultations about the company, products, after-sales service and customer support over the calls and for walk-in clients from Monday to Friday 9:30AM – 5:30PM.

Additionally, the local agency is ready to provide training for QNET’s Independent Representatives (IRs) and also organise educative coaching sessions to ensure that all IRs are well-trained on business ethics of correct network marketing, business plan and possess excellent product knowledge. Currently, there are about 2,000 registered  IRs of QNET in the country – mainly in Kutaisi, Batumi and Tbilisi cities and the very first distributors  joined  the company in 2010.

“A huge number of potential customers, along with a familiarity with the direct selling industry, make Georgia an attractive market for QNET. The most popular products among Georgian distributors are holiday packages and our online learning courses in the field of marketing and management. Also, we observe that there is a growing demand for Swiss made Bernhard H. Mayer^® brand watches,” added Haldun.

QNET sells a variety of exclusive and innovative products of high quality to enhance the lives of its customers around the world. QNET’s range of products includes 30 different brands categorised in nine different categories of wellness, personal care products, jewellery, nutrition, holiday packages, luxury products, homecare, weight management and online educational courses.  

Customers can purchase products from QNET only if they are referred by one of the company’s IRs. The distributors earn a commission when their referrals purchase products from the company website. QNET provides a high level of support to its distributors, offering extensive product and sales training, marketing materials, and seminars.

Direct Selling News has just announced that Jeunesse is up 32 spots on this year’s Global 100 List, and now stands at 46^th in their worldwide rankings.

Direct Selling News’ rankings are based on yearly revenue, high industry standards, and overall global impact. Jeunesse has consistently seen transformative annual results.

Sales in 2012 closed at $126 million, but in 2013, yearly sales closed at $257 million—demonstrating over a 100% increase in growth and double the earnings generated in 2012.

DSN has also listed Jeunesse as the 3^rd fastest growing direct selling company in the world for the second consecutive year. 

Chief Visionary Officer, Scott Lewis says:

“We are humbled by this significant recognition from Direct Selling News. This company began 2013 with a focused plan; our goal was to secure $250 million in sales revenue and enter in the top 50 direct selling companies in the world.

We not only achieved our goal, we surpassed it. However, the corporate team at Jeunesse is cognizant that without our dedicated distributors around the world, this milestone could not have been reached. This accomplishment is really theirs.

“As we progress toward an even more impactful year, we will continue to place innovation and transformation at the forefront of our strategies.

With the collective focus and dedication of our core leaders all over the world, we are extremely confident that 2014 will be a year to remember.”

About the Global 100 List

Direct Selling News created the Global 100 List to acknowledge the achievements of direct selling companies and to provide a clear picture of the magnitude of the industry. Just as every credible industry ranks its players—through Inc. 500, FORTUNE 500, and Forbes’ lists—DSN wanted to show the public what a viable and credible industry direct selling is.

The positive outcome of the ranking is not found in the revenue numbers alone. What the ranking truly reveals about the direct selling channel of distribution is that it is an industry built on the strength of established companies, the promise of newer companies and the depth of products and services offered by millions of people worldwide—making it a truly global experience.

About Jeunesse Global

Jeunesse is a leading direct selling company devoted to encouraging its distributors to look and feel younger, earn more, and enjoy life. Company research focuses on adult stem cell technology, telomere support, DNA repair, and nutrigenomics. Products are made in the U.S.A. and are exclusively formulated for Jeunesse.

With a multi-lingual customer service, back office support team, global enrollment system, and in-house programming already in place, the company is fully operational in 22 offices around the world. Its distribution channels extend to over 90 countries.

Jeunesse and the Jeunesse logo are registered trademarks of Jeunesse Global, LLC in the U.S. and/or other countries. For more information, please visit: www.jeunesseglobal.com. Follow Jeunesse on Facebook  www.facebook.com/TheScienceOfYouthfulAging  or Twitter twitter.com/jeunesseglobal

Six months after Super Typhoon Yolanda wreaked havoc on lives and property in Eastern Visayas, Julie Tatarczuk, president and general manager of Avon Philippines, has made an emotional journey back to the city of Tacloban—her heart still full of anticipation for what she would come across along the way, but no less replete with hope and confidence that life in this city is moving forward.

Tatarczuk’s positive expectations were buoyed up by her own experience with Tacloban-based Avon representatives. Their branch, as well as with outlets in Ormoc and Naval, was among the worst hit by the typhoon.

But exactly 31 days after the strongest typhoon in recorded history hit and ravaged the region, Avon Tacloban had made a bold move to reopen, notwithstanding the mayhem and the indescribable destruction around. It was their way of telling people that life should go on ASAP.

In the thick of rubble and ruins of the city, Tatarczuk made her way to Tacloban last December to throw her full support to the decision of Avon representatives to reopen, even as most businesses were closed and other sources of livelihood were put on hold. Looting was also rampant, and nothing was sacred at that point.

“Only a few days after the typhoon had hit, the Tacloban reps were already asking when they could reopen. At that time, there was a clamor for personal hygiene necessities like deodorants, body wash, lotion, as well as undergarments, and basic cosmetics such as lipstick and eyeliners, and our reps felt they needed to help too by supplying people with these items,” Tatarczuk recalls.

Avon Philippines has been strong on the personal hygiene items area, selling per minute an average of 20 deodorants, 13 hand and body lotions under the Skin So Soft label, 25 bras and 29 pairs of panties. It also sells 19 lipsticks per minute.

Curiously, why would people in the midst of the worst disaster look for lipsticks and eyebrow pencils? “Para kahit nabagyuhan, maganda pa din sila, maganda ang pakiramdam nila. Para hindi mukhang nabagyuhan tignan! (So that even if the typhoon struck, they still feel and look beautiful),” cheerfully replied Rachel Lee Asis, an Avon sales leader.

It was almost unimaginable for Tatarczuk how Avon’s Tacloban business could proceed. There was no electricity, there were no computers, no aircon. The stocks were on the floor, and not all the dealers had managed to make their presence felt. Of the 6,000 enlisted Avon representatives in the region, more than half were still unaccounted for. But Tatarczuk was just simply floored at how things moved so quickly toward the branch’s recovery.

Finding out what Filipino spirit is Tatarczuk’s tour of duty to head Avon Philippines started in September last year, at a most challenging time. A strong earthquake just rocked Bohol and Cebu in October, then came the Zamboanga siege—and then Yolanda.

“I was fully prepared to get into action, but I didn’t realize it would be that quickly! I moved to Avon Philippines to add new energy and direction but that changed because there was something to do first,” she quipped. Tatarczuk joined Avon in 2007, implementing marketing strategies for 42 countries in Continental Europe, Western Europe and North Africa. She became group vice president brand marketing, leading the marketing strategies and new product development for beauty brands, driving sales revenues of $8 billion, and overseeing the acquisition of the Liz Earle brand, which is now a subsidiary of Avon.

Emergency situations like this are nothing new to Tatarczuk, however. During the London bombing in 2005, she also found herself immersed in helping those affected by the tragedy. And it was during such circumstances that Tatarczuk realized the value of remaining calm and keeping personal emotions at bay.

“The challenge is to be clear-headed, to set aside emotions. When you have people like the Avon ladies who have dedicated their lives to growing the business, you will be determined to help them by hook or by crook. They have to feel the leadership,” Tatarczuk adds.

Indeed, at the height of the confusion, Tatarczuk made it clear that people came first, and that every single Avon associate was located. Teams were also organized, one to respond to the needs that resulted from the disaster, and one to respond to business matters. The latter was responsible for getting the stocks needed to Tacloban, whether by land, or sea, or air despite the seeming absence of available transportation remedies at that time. The Avon office also served as home to about 20 families who sought refuge in the Avon building.

The Avon headquarters in New York also did its share in helping its Philippine offices. Tatarczuk confirms that the Philippines is one of the top 10 markets for Avon and this country is important, to say the least. Avon CEO Sheri McCoy had made it clear that the Philippines was a priority for them too at that time

“They were concentrating on providing us with the speediest approval for whatever we needed to donate, for the Avon sales associates, etc. E-mails and requests went directly to our regional offices and they would really wait for it so the approvals came immediately,” Tatarczuk recalls.

The reopening of Avon Tacloban was thus seen as being significant in reviving sources of income and supporting the recovery of the company’s representatives.

Other branches including Bogo, Passi, Borongan, Kalibo, Roxas, Sara and Danao were able to resume operations within two weeks after the Yolanda onslaught.

“I have always heard the term ‘The Filipino Spirit’ but I didn’t know what it genuinely meant until I came here. These people are not victims, they are survivors. I am humbled and felt small, my job here had a purpose and I have seen it now,” she states.

Moving forward 

Meeting the Avon sales reps six months later, Tatarczuk became instantly emotional.

“The gift you give to me every day are your smiling faces, that you are rebuilding. You have my absolute commitment to help you as you go from strength to strength to strength because you deserve to be happy and live out your dreams, the way you keep moving forward,” she says addressing the sales reps during the formal blessing of the refurbished Avon Tacloban offices.

Avon endorser Georgina Wilson joins Tatarczuk on this trip and is equally awed by the resilience of the ladies before her. “The is the first branch I have visited, and I am witnessing now how beauty really runs deep. It is a beauty that saves lives, I waited six months to come here and I am proud to be with the strongest people I have come to know,” Wilson says.

Slowly but surely, the branch is picking up the pieces. The numbers say it all. Bon Escobar, Avon division manager for the Visayan region, reveals that Avon Tacloban’s business share has even increased from .9 percent, to 1.2 percent.

“The devastation was incomprehensible so much but the 30-year-old branch in some ways is more alive,” Escobar notes. “The amount of sales delivered equates with the number of dealers doing the selling. Life is going on, the homes are not yet finished because we have not received invitations yet to the blessings but the building in their hearts is already done. Di pa tapos ang laban, kapag wala na ang mga tents, that is the mark na tapos na. But we want to continue to inspire not only the region but the entire Philippines.”

Tatarczuk says the inspiration radiates not only through the country but throughout the world. Even as Avon has been actively leading in worthy causes, particularly in the fight against breast cancer and domestic violence, nothing of this sort has been witnessed in the entirety of its operations all over the world. How Avon Philippines reacted well to disaster is now serving as a beacon of strength, and Tatarczuk says it just might have inspired a new commendable cause for Avon to take up worldwide.

Source: www.inquirer.net

Mark O. Smith and his wife Tammy Coty Smith from Southern California, USA, as of May – June 2014, they have hit the $232,000+ per month mark and $2.7 million in annual earnings

Mark is a former military and college student and turned into a multi-millionaire from home.

In December 2013 Mark and Tammy have hit already the $220,000 per month mark with their Nerium International distributorship.

Nerium International is founded by the Olson family and Dennis Winsor and comprised of a broad team of experienced founders, executives, and home office support personnel that is passionate about empowering the Brand Partners success.

Jeff Olson, CEO has an industry-wide reputation of success and leadership. He has been a top distributor in several companies, building multimillion-dollar sales teams.

Jeff has been the CEO of two corporations, as well as the founder of The People’s Network, a company that became one of the largest personal-development training organizations in the nation.

Isagenix was honored with a Silver Stevie Award for its Share the Shot campaign at the 12th Annual American Business Awards held Friday, June 13 at the Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park Hotel.

The marketing campaign, which lasted three months, and was launched on Social Media, awarded one lucky winner with a year’s supply of e+™ for being the most creative in showing how they “Share the Shot.”

Participants were asked to snap a photo or tape a 30-second video showing how they share e+ with friends and family. Thousands of Associates in the U.S. and Canada participated and voted on the winner, helping this campaign go viral.

Isagenix Director of Corporate Communications and Publications, Chris La Fleur attended the prestigious event to accept the awards on behalf of the Isagenix family.

“The Share the Shot contest represents the true spirit of direct sales. As a direct selling company, Isagenix relies on word-of-mouth referrals to share our products and the home-based business opportunity,” shares Chris.

“We thank our more than 300,000 Associates worldwide for the opportunity to transform lives and for helping gain recognition through this award.”

This is the 27th Stevie Award bestowed upon Isagenix. The company proudly displays all of its Stevie Awards at its World Headquarters in Chandler, Arizona.

Isagenix was also awarded Bronze Stevie Awards in the following categories:

• Company of the Year (Health Products & Services)
• Kathy Coover, Executive of the Year (Health Products & Services)
• Communications Department of the Year
• 2013 “Live Out Loud” Celebration, Best Internal Recognition/Motivational Event
• IsaNews Magazine, Best Newsletter or House Publication
• Isagenix New Member Welcome Kit, Best Marketing or Sales Brochure or Kit (Print)
• Experience Isagenix Video, Best Corporate Overview

The Stevies

The Stevies™, which are nicknamed from the Greek word meaning “crowned,” are trophies that were presented to the winners during its semi-annual event. More than 400 nominees and their guests attended.

For more details on The American Business Awards, visit StevieAwards.com.

Worldpay US, one of the recognized leaders in the payments processing industry, announced today that it has entered into a referral agreement with 5LINX Enterprises. The agreement will allow 5LINX to promote Worldpay payments processing products and services to merchants.

“Our 2014 goals will be strengthened by this exclusive sales channel,” says Max Narro, President of Small Business Unit for Worldpay US. “The relationship with 5LINX is progressive, straightforward and authoritative, just as we are in the way we do business.”

Craig Jerabeck, President and CEO of 5LINX, stated, “5LINX is pleased to announce the expansion of its relationship with Worldpay. This new agreement will give 5LINX and its Independent Marketing Representatives a concentrated approach to Worldpay markets. Our Representatives and customers will benefit from offers tailored to our 95,000 members.”

About Worldpay

As a division of The Worldpay Group, Worldpay US provides leading payments processing services across multiple industry verticals. Utilizing traditional point-of-sale technologies to mobile devices, customers can accept payments anytime, anywhere. From transaction capturing and processing to merchant acquiring, Worldpay provides insightful expertise, seamless delivery and valued relationships. Visit Worldpay.com .

About 5LINX

5LINX offers a unique work from home business opportunity based on essential products and services people use every day. 5LINX distributes its products and services through a network of dedicated independent marketing representatives. 5LINX(R) has earned the distinction as being recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of the 5,000 fastest-growing privately-held companies in the country for the last eight years. In 2012 and 2013, 5LINX(R) was named to the Global 100 List compiled by Direct Selling News, the premier direct sales industry magazine, making 5LINX(R) one of the 100 largest direct sales companies in the world.

After Jürgen Pulvermüller’s company went bankrupt in 2013, he promised himself to never work for the network marketing industry again, which he first started with in 2009. The former maintenance engineer then shifted towards the real estate business, but he soon found it to be unexciting and limiting.

But sometimes things turn out differently than what you initially planned for yourself.

When Jürgen met Vi Co-Founder and Global Ambassador Nick Sarnicola and UK’s 1-Star Ambassador Peter Webb, he decided to give Vi a shot. In February 2014, he accepted The Challenge, immediately enrolling as a Promoter even though he was initially apprehensive about the outcome.

Life surprised him again, however. Jürgen became a Regional Director and earned his BMW after just 16 days with Vi. Forty-three days later, he advanced to National Director. On top of that, his Challenge was an easy and wonderful experience for him—losing 10 lbs. and even participating in a triathlon.

Jürgen has also redefined his goals in life: through Vi, he wants to help more people take risks and continually Challenge themselves—whether it’s a personal, financial or fitness goal.

When asked what his motivation is, Jürgen cited one quote that has defined his life in every situation. It’s what gave him the courage to give Vi a shot, and turn it into a flourishing business:

“Here’s to the crazy ones, the misfits, the rebels, the troublemakers, the round pegs in the square holes… the ones who see things differently—they’re not fond of rules…

You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them, but the only thing you can’t do is ignore them because they change things… they push the human race forward, and while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius, because the ones who are crazy enough to think that they can change the world, are the ones who do.” – Steve Jobs, the late Apple Co-Founder and CEO (1955-2011)

Mannatech, Incorporated, the founder of the  Mission 5 Million(SM) (M5M(SM)) Social Entrepreneurial movement , the pioneer of nutritional glycobiology and the leading innovator of naturally-sourced supplements based on  Real Food Technology® solutions , announces today that is has no affiliation with a new company EMSquared, Inc.,  founded by Sam Caster who created Mannatech in 1993 and severed ties with the company in March 2014.

Other websites have mentioned Mannatech when discussing Caster and EMSquared, and one site incorrectly referred to EMSquared as a Mannatech spin-off.

On March 4, 2014, Mannatech issued a press release announcing that Caster had voluntarily chosen to end his consulting relationship with the company. "We want to be clear that there is no relationship between EMSquared and Mannatech," said Dr. Robert Sinnott, Mannatech CEO and Chief Science Officer.

"We are concerned that there could be confusion in the marketplace because both companies utilize the direct sales model for distribution and compensation and use a Social Entrepreneurship model to help nourish at-risk children around the world," said Dr. Sinnott. "Mannatech is a well-established 20- year-old public company that holds more than 90 patents and sells its products in 23 countries around the world.

EMSquared is not a spin-off of Mannatech and, as a competitor, will not be able to sell products through Mannatech's established sales network." 

"We are also concerned because both EMSquared and Mannatech are focused on Social Entrepreneurship.  "Our commitment to Social Entrepreneurship and Mission 5 Million (M5M) remains as strong as ever."

Our commitment to Social Entrepreneurship and our Mission 5 Million (M5M) movement remains as strong as ever," said Dr. Sinnott. "We are looking for new ways to expand distribution of our Real Food Technology supplementation."

About Mannatech

Mannatech, Incorporated, develops high-quality health, weight and fitness, and skin care products that are based on the solid foundation of nutritional science and development standards. Mannatech is dedicated to its platform of Social Entrepreneurship based on the foundation of promoting, aiding and optimizing nutrition where it is needed most around the world.

Mannatech's proprietary products are available through independent sales Associates around the globe, including the United States, Canada, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Austria, Denmark, Germany, Norway, Sweden, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Japan, Taiwan, Singapore, Estonia, Finland, the Republic of Ireland, Czech Republic, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Namibia, and Hong Kong. For more information, visit  Mannatech.com .

“By 2025, Gen Y is going to make up 75% of the global workforce, and their independent-thinking and entrepreneurial mindset is going to change the future of the workplace.” – Vivian Giang in Business Insider (2013)

No matter your age, you’ve likely heard the term Millennials or Generation Y or Gen-Y. They all reference the generation of people born between the early 1980s and early 2000s. And although there’s disagreement about their traits, values and interests, few would dispute the fact that Millennials know where in business they want to go… and how to get there.

Over the past year, ViSalus have seen a constant stream of Millennials joining ViSalus (Vi) and promoting The Challenge. They’re between the ages of 18 and 34 – ViSalus Community version of Generation Y – and ViSalus refer to them as Vi-Y.

Fueled by passion, energy and focused determination, many have accelerated through ViSalus Promoter ranks to earn six-figure incomes.

And so we asked a few of the Vi-Y leaders to share with us why they joined Vi, what their generation is looking for regarding entrepreneurship opportunities, and what advice they have for people their age who want to succeed long-term in business.

Meet three Vi-Y Leaders:

1. In your opinion, what is the main thing your generation is looking for when it comes to business?

MATT:  I believe Gen-Yers are looking to have fun, flexibility in their business, the ability to spend time with friends, travel, and overall just make a contribution to society… and have a great time doing so.

JORDAN: I truly believe that my generation is looking for a business that makes a difference and contributes to society.  A business that allows freedom, creativity and travel.  To be a part of something with no limits financially and, of course, a culture that is work hard and play harder!  Our generation wants to enjoy life and have FUN!

MICHELLE: In my opinion, Generation Y is driven by lifestyle, which is the reason why I think so many young people are pursuing entrepreneurship.

2. What are some common misconceptions people have about Gen-Y in terms of business/entrepreneur goals?

MATT: Some believe that Gen-Yers are lazy and unmotivated, and I think that is totally wrong.  In my opinion, they are just not ready to have typical boring jobs and are looking for ways to create a business or entrepreneurial venture they are passionate about. They then turn that passion into a business, work extremely hard and are great students, and do everything they can to be successful.

JORDAN: A common misconception about Gen-Y is that we are LAZY! I find that when my generation has a lack of interest in something, we put minimal to no effort towards it, and from the outside looking in, it looks like laziness. That is why it is important we find something we’re passionate about and go after it like our life depends on it.

MICHELLE: Some people think we’re not hard-working. In reality, we have to see something to believe. It’s a show-not-tell type of mentality. When it comes to entrepreneur/business goals, we will take direction and advice from someone who has achieved success and will work very hard, but we will not take direction from someone who uses their seniority to run an organization.

3. How were you introduced to Vi?

MATT: I was introduced to Vi by Co-Founder, Global Ambassador and fellow Gen-Y entrepreneur Nick Sarnicola.  I started promoting when I was still 29 years old on Feb 15th, 2010.  Currently I am a 5-star ambassador and a Gen-Y Vi Millionaire.

JORDAN: In January 2012, I was introduced to Vi from my loving mother! She had lost 10 lbs. in 3 weeks and felt amazing. That peaked my curiosity, and after attending a Challenge Party, I knew that this was my ticket to live the life of my dreams!  Now, as a 3-Star Ambassador and Half-a-Million-Dollar earner running to be a Vi Millionaire, I am truly grateful to be a part of this amazing opportunity and also mentor so many to fire their boss and fight for their dreams!

MICHELLE: I was a full-time college student studying fashion design at the University of Hawaii and working part-time as a cocktail waitress at a nightclub. Jordan Delacruz introduced me to ViSalus in February of 2012, and he was quite convincing. Asked me all the right questions, found out what my interests were, and invited me to a Challenge Party. I joined Vi as a star Promoter on February 20, 2012 and 3 months later hit the position of Ambassador at 22 years old!

4. Why do you think so many people ages 18-34 are attracted to Vi?

MATT: I believe so many Gen-Y are attracted to Vi because of the culture of the company, the excitement of the business model, the ability to work with people they like, the ability to combine “work” with fun, the social aspects of Vi, and the fact that they can be their own boss and make as much money as they want simply by helping others.

JORDAN: For one, the RESULTS!!! Period!  Yes, we have fun. Yes, we have Culture and a great cause, but look also at what we have accomplished as a company in the last few years!  With so many Gen-Y Promoters earning 6-figures and higher, we are the pound for pound Gen-Y KING!  This is truly the #1 vehicle to live healthy, travel, contribute, have financial freedom, and have fun… gifted-wrapped to anyone who takes action.

MICHELLE: We’re a fun company and our system to success is SIMPLE. When you combine a simple system that’s highly achievable by the average person while having fun, partying and getting into the best shape of your life, it’s an opportunity that young people would be crazy not to take.

5. How does Vi meet your own professional career needs and goals?

MATT: Vi meets and exceeds my career goals and needs by allowing me to be flexible and in control of my time without needing to report to an office or place of business.  It allows me to work with people I like and build great friendships by working with these people.  It gives me unlimited earning potential and, most importantly, it gives me endless opportunities to learn new skills, make mistakes in a safe environment and develop myself into a very successful entrepreneur.

JORDAN: Vi gives me fulfillment professionally because I get to lead people to success in life, health and prosperity.  It forces me to consistently develop myself because I need to continue to be sharp and evolve in order to provide the very best to my team.  As far as achieving my goals, I want a life of fulfillment and purpose. I have that today and I am only getting started; I will achieve more by leading my generation to consistent victories in life.

MICHELLE: Vi has provided me with time freedom and financial freedom, which is everything I could’ve ever wanted in a career. When you look outside of this business for work you won’t find a career that will offer you the freedom of time and finances. You either have a lot of money but someone else owns your time or you have a lot of time and no money. That’s why I love Vi because it provides you with both!

The American Business Awards named Vemma Nutrition Company’s CEO and Founder BK Boreyko “Executive of the Year” in the Health Products and Services category Friday, June 13 at its 12^th annual American Business Awards event in Chicago.

Known as the “Oscars” of the business world, the American Business Awards recognized BK Boreyko with its top honor, the Gold Stevie award. Past recipients of the prestigious award include the late Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple, Inc. (2010); Alan Mulally, President and CEO of Ford Motor Company (2011); Kent Muhtar, CEO of Coca-Cola (2012); and Reggie Aggarwal, Founder & CEO of Cvent Inc. (2013).

“I am extremely proud to be recognized as the Executive of the Year in the Health Products and Services category among so many prestigious finalists,” said BK Boreyko. 

Vemma was also presented with a Bronze Stevie award for the Verve Leadership Academy in the Internal Recognition/Motivation category.

Vemma EVP of Marketing and Brand Development, Mark Patterson commented, “It is a huge honor to receive these two Stevie awards and be recognized alongside other major U.S. brands. I want to congratulate BK on his win and am proud of the entire Vemma team for their outstanding efforts throughout the year.”

Stevie award winners were selected by more than 240 executives worldwide who participated in the judging process this year.

“It’s an honor for us to recognize and celebrate such an outstanding class of organizations and individuals,” said Michael Gallagher, president and founder of the Stevie Awards. “The judges were especially discerning this year. All of this year’s Gold, Silver and Bronze Stevie winners should be proud that the judges recognized their achievements and their ability to express those achievements in a way that captured the judges’ hearts and imaginations.”

The American Business Awards is the nation’s premier business awards program. All organizations operating in the USA are eligible to submit nominations — public and private, for-profit and non-profit, large and small. Nicknamed the Stevies for the Greek word for “crowned,” the trophies were presented to winners during a gala banquet on Friday, June 13 at the Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park Hotel. More than 400 nominees and their guests attended.

The 2014 American Business Awards will be presented at two awards events: Friday’s banquet in Chicago, and at the new products & tech awards event on Friday, September 12 in San Francisco. Vemma was named a finalist in two award categories for the upcoming ceremony in September: Events App for the Vemma All In Convention App, and New Product or Service of the Year — Consumer Products for Vemma Renew™.

Details about the American Business Awards and the lists of Stevie winners who were announced on June 13 are available at www.StevieAwards.com/ABA.   

About Vemma

Founded in 2004 by BK Boreyko, Vemma Nutrition Company is rapidly growing as one of the premier industry leaders specializing in premium liquid nutrition. Every week, thousands of new customers experience the positive difference of the clinically studied Vemma formula. 

The Vemma brands include Verve, a healthy energy drink and Bod-e, a weight loss line. Vemma is headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, and distributes its products through a global network of Affiliates. For more information, please visit vemma.com.