Years ago my husband came home from playing basketball with some buddies and said "I think we're going to start selling Amway on the side." And I replied "I think we're NOT. That's a hard NO!" He asked why. I said "Because I don't want our family and friends to begin avoiding us and stop inviting us to any get-togethers or fun activities. Nobody likes being around folks who "sell" things like that. They're always looking for a new customer and I'm sick of saying "Please don't ever ask me again or I won't be polite next time and I really like/love you." So we didn't join Amway.
I like the video. MLM are emotionally (as well as financially) manipulative cult-like organizations, and the more people see hard facts about them the better.
What scares me is the way the MLM business model has infiltrated into mainstream business. I was employed by a company that announced a few years ago that employees were now 1099 contractors responsible for their own advertising and promotions. No more fixed wage, income was now a percentage of services sold. Sayonara
As a social worker I have seen this more and more. You pay a higher income tax on 1099 than regular income. But the BIG problem that many don't think about or realize is the employer is no longer paying into L&I, Social security or Medicare. If you get hurt on the job, there is nothing to fall back on. And if you try to file for disability or social security retirement, all of the years you worked for that employer isn't counted and hasn't accrued anything. I know someone will say...well you should be planning your retirement and not relying on the government. My answer, Absolutely!! But with all of the financial tides of the last few years, not everyone is where they want to be. Make damn sure you're not being paid with a 1099.
What’s really unnerving about MLM’s is that their message is directly targeted to appeal to people that are in vulnerable situations. They have the MO of coercive groups, they are comparable to cults in the way that they go for those that are vulnerable and offer them the “way out” but they are nothing but a horrible trap. THANK YOU NIC! You are the bomb 💣
Yes it especially is pitched to stay at home moms as a way to make money. Apparently it's quite pervasive among LDS members since there are so many SAHMs.
@@paulettepalmer4860 I'm glad that now they sell them as a troop rather than as individuals competing. Especially because then it ends up being more about your parents' social network than actual sales skills.
I sold Scentsy. I had some fun, made a few $ but mostly burned out. I did buy a monthly "special" new or on sale warmer and scent. I feel these companies are a pyramid scam and only the founding owners or top people make any money. Love the jean fix!!!
Holy cow woman, the rabbit hole of research you must've went down is impressive! Love the positive peeve though❤❤❤ oh, and glad you got your favorite jeans mended up!
Hi Nik..nail on the head! Wish I had done the homework you did. Would have saved me 40 years of promise that went no where. I believed in myself and whatever the product was that I was promoting. I absolutely love sales. It comes easy to me because I dont lie about products. I even quit my corporate job to truly invest before I figured out I wasn't the problem. I tried Amway. Shackly, Avon, Mary Kay, arbonne, vemma.. wow listing them now I feel stupid. I can only say they are ALL a sham. A neverending goal that can never be reached by the common non celebrity person. However I did have fun in each before hitting the wall. I was determined I could breakthrough. In the end...not so much. TFS ❤
You shouldn't feel dumb. The people who start these companies make impossible promises. They know exactly what they're doing. Thank you for sharing, Denise, your input is invaluable!
Straight up facts in this vid. Anytime a woman that I don't know well or hasn't spoken to me in years tries to friend me on social media, the first thing I do is try to see if they are calling themselves an "independent distributor ", "consultant", "coach ", etc on their profile. No thanks. I need more friends, not more people trying to sell me things
They prey on desperate people who are just looking to have a better life for themselves and their families. Then when they don't make enough money, they are told they aren't putting in enough effort. These places are despicable and should be illegal. How we can be a progressive country and still allow this sort of garbage is beyond me.
Oh good gravy thank you! My sil, some years ago, sold cleaning products through a company called Melalucha. I think that's how it's spelled...anyway, she got her mother into selling under her and long story short my mil ended up being out 400 dollars because low and behold there was fine print. I was pressured for weeks to sell it with them. I mean...weeks! But I also had personal experience with an MLM. Back in college I had friends mother convince me to sell Mary Kay and I quickly learned how big of a scam it was. Despite all my warnings my MIL didn't listen and lost all her money. Fast forward to today my niece by marriage has gone through so many different MLMs. It is truly heartbreaking to watch. She just wants to make money on the side to make ends meet with the cost of living going up and these "companies" prey on people in these situations.
I want to make one more comment. You are by far my favorite book making RUclips STAR! Your work is not too feminine and teaches so much to the beginner and intermediate student. Ironically, I just started watching Slaying Dragons and Taking Names from 4 years ago. You named your "dragon" Tim and ironically . . . my name is Tim. Just thought it was funny. Blessings in the coming year, and I can't wait to see what you will bring to us all in 2024!
Good video Nik! I have been a customer in the past and did sell Tupperware many many years ago but my goal was to just get cheap Tupperware for myself! This is a good reminder to always research. I’m going to share this one on my personal page as with the way he world is now and everyone looking for a little extra income to make it buy I feel they would be more vulnerable into getting into this. You also reminded me I have two pairs of “shop jeans” with holes I need to mend fore I ruin my good jeans!
40 years in . Many ups down ms but mostly good. Covid wasn't good to me . I'm customer service oriented. So online is my STRUGGLE. but I've made good friends and my adult kids are nice people 🙂 because I was home with them and their friends. $25. To start then use of discount. I knew people never hardly stay longer than 3 months . Win win 🏆. Do your kitchen and quit. 😂❤😂❤ . No strings, quit. We know it just have fun! 🎉 I love discount Divas. 🐝
That's a great point! I've known people to join those kinds of things - Tupperware or Pampered Chef....even Stampin' Up - with the goal of getting the things they want at a better price. If that's your goal, and the system works to meet that goal, then good for you!
Thank you so much for this information. I'm 60 years old and I have just sent this information to my children and my nieces and nephews. It's so important. I worked for years and years as a school aide. I worked very very hard and I never made enough money to not be in debt. Thank you for sharing these resources !!!!!!!🙏😢
Nik… I have to tell ya… I applaud you for exposing this wackadoodle ripoff scheme. I also applaud you for crafting at the same freaking time!!! I’m also pretty sure you’re dealing with physical discomfort at the same time given your chronic health crap. You’re really high up on the list of talented women I adore and admire. Nik, YOU are THE BOMB! Companies Ripping off women’s hard work, hopes and dreams, and exploiting them economically makes me want to puke. So how… ahem… does Etsy measure up? Oh, and the jeans are deluxe! 😊 I love ya, Nik the whistle smith! 🙃
Thank you for sharing about the MLM vampires looking for their next victims. They have no shame when they "hey, girl" cancer patients -- specifically seeking the most vulnerable. Despicable. It happens so much that I wonder if it's suggested in their you're-not-working-hard-enough meetings 🤦
I'm glad you're calling out these MLM companies. They feed on the hopes & dreams of regular folks. LuLaRich is a documentary released in 2021 on Amazon Prime Video about an MLM and their insidious practices. Here in Idaho the 2022 list of top private companies in Idaho include Melaleuca (at number 5), and Scentsy (number 10). I've never known anyone who sells Melaleuca, but I know a lot of women who sell Scentsy, and all of them do it on the side, because as you demonstrated, it doesn't pay a living wage. I love that you have created this video. Keep on keepin' on, Nik!
This was super interesting, and I even enjoyed watching you stitch on your jeans. Big shocker that Stampin Up doesn’t publish an Income Disclosure Statement.
I’ve only heard about Nuskin and Mary Kay but I’m in Norway.. a friend of mine sells Mary Kay and to be in the network all they have to do is place one order a year + a start package. I know several of her friends has jumped on that deal but only because they use the products themselves and doesn’t sell anything. Prices for their products are extremely high so a 50% off to buy the things you use is a god deal I guess. I’ve never even been tempted to this, like you said, if you don’t have a enormous network with the “right” people you’re going to have to use your friends more than what’s comfortable for both you and them.. Someone are born as a salesman though.. 😅
Thank you so much for giving the real deal breakdown! I knew things weren't quite what they seem with this system, but I didn't realize just how bad it really is. I've come close to signing up 2 or 3 times purely out of desperation, but warning bells went off and I didn't follow through. Each time my recruiter got almost nasty about it. Too bad my radar didn't work much for the rest of my life. Oh, I didn't have a radar for half of it, lol. I want to take this opportunity to tell you I love your videos, though I never thought I would get into bookbinding. I love to learn and I love your humor. Especially today with "pet my peeve", etc. Looking forward to the next one. Have a fantastic day/evening....
My mom was in one of them years ago. We were 3 children and she worked at the post office in daytime selling products at the evening to get more money. Poor mom❤ we were in debt for years because she had to bye the starter kit and in contained products that no one wanted. Do not join that type of scam❤
So interesting to hear how these companies work. I've been tempted, in the past, but then I've stopped myself and thought that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Love the finishing on your jeans! Hope you're well.
Really appreciate this video! I have never been a fan of MLM‘s, but I am saddened that so many people fall into the trap. They sell their first round to their friends and family. But then they get stuck, because unless they go set up somewhere up or start advertising on social media, it is terribly difficult to sell the products. And the numbers don’t reflect the amount of time that goes into all of this. It is running a small business and most people have to do a full-time job in conjunction with it. It is exhausting and can affect your mental health. Between high pressure selling, trying to keep up with the level, and the risk of feeling like a failure someone’s metal health would become fragile. Thanks for the psa 😂. And great tip to use mason jar lid! Hugs ❤️🤗
Nik, that was so interesting and informative, thank you. Sounds very much like a variation on what used to be called a ‘pyramid’ scheme. Great patch repairs on the jeans and excellent idea to use mason jar lids for sewing ring, I will definitely be giving this a try ❤
When I saw jeans, I thought you would be making bookcloth out of it 😂 while venting about MLM. Stitching is beautiful and I love the fabric. I have a pair of old jeans and am now thinking that maybe I should turn it into bookcloth 😊😊 for a sketchbook. Jeans would be a good fabric for "on the go" kind of sketchbook, to withstand wear and tear in my bag. Thanks for the inspo.
Funny story here. I'm in the UK, English to be exact. Back in the mid 70s I lived in the US and came across Amway. It didnt take long for me and my new husband, in our mid 20s, to realise we didnt like the company ethos, the structure, the products or the people. We never even signed up. Then in 1996, back in the UK, a former boss (retired Australian diplomat) and his English wife started 'courting' me, with what I later thought of as the bullshit story to recruit me, WITHOUT telling me the name of the company. I was at a difficult stage in my life. Newly divorced, one child aged 12. They came up to see me (3 hr drive), and I was so excited. Anyway, after much pleasantry, all kinds of amazing promises, my excitement topped up, they said the word with deep reverence. Yeah, you guessed. Amway. I was shocked and speechless for a split second and then fell about laughing. I could not believe it. These were intelligent, highly educated people! How had they drunk the koolaid?!? Anyway, they were very put out, offended I thought it was funny, but still they persisted. Like cult leaders. I can't remember how I got them out of my house but I never saw them again. So much for 'we want to help you make a good living, dear Maggie, cos we love you'. Bollocks to that! 😂 Love your patche, Nik!
Thank you! Good statistical analysis. I hope people pay attention to you. Even as a side gig, these crazy things are NOT a good idea to try to actually make money.
PS my younger sister's husband was in these nasty scams. Wouldn't ever dream of being involved. Not entrepreneurial inclined Only the top tier ever makes any money. The same people start a new scheme. Then again taking the best people with them again and again taking the cream off the top. Everyone loses except the top level You have to go conferences and seminars and pay for yourself and your recruitment prospects
Everyone in the comments deeply appreciating the insight while I'm just happy to have heard "it's like a game of Chutes and Ladders on crack" and trying to figure out how to work it into future conversations 😅
that is a a lot of research--good job, well said. I am not a fan of buying from MLM nor would I sell for MLM. It is wild to me how many folks get suckered into them. Just keeping track of the paperwork is a full time job, I have never known even one person who made money in an MLM.
I would also caution people that if they intend to buy products from a friend in an MLM, that they insist on buying directly from that friend and paying with cash. I made the mistake of ordering some lip balm from a friend who was selling Young Living, and before I knew it, I was getting texts and emails from her up-line saying “welcome to the team!” It took 18 months and a threat to turn her up-line and the company into the FCC before I finally got off their communication list. My friend was mortified that this company she believed so much in was so predatory towards a nonmember customer.
Your way of mending reminds me of "sashiko" from Japan...very cute. Actually I like it a lot, when you "discuss" interesting facts etc. while being creative... 🙂
I don't know about this MLM business. Maybe because I live in Europe. Or maybe because I'm not interested in all that stuff. Looks like pyramid scams to me! I would advise everybody to stay away! Thanks for sharing, Nik! ❤
Thank you Nik. U are awesome for this. This is all true, some of my relatives got fooled into these pyramid schemes, such a shame. Lularoe, herbalife, passion parties, etc.
Great video. I hope people considering MLM's get to see this as you explain it really well. MLM's are a massive con & cause so much damage to people. Mostly honest people who are just trying to find ways to survive financially. Thanks for sharing your research on this. It's purposely so shady, I'm sure you've shone a brighter light on it for people like me who knew about these schemes being dodgy but not really understanding why. Cheers for the video. Love your Jean repair. ☺️
I was in involved with MK in the early 2000s. The woman who signed me up was despicable. Needless to say, I didn’t last long and was thankful that I had willing customers on eBay to buy up my inventory. 😅
Great way to mend jeans. Fantastic idea to use the lid. I think it will look great if I take a piece from an old jean, make a fake tear in it, fix it the way you just did, and then add it as a parch on a JJ with a soft cover. I love using denim in my journal covers 😊
Yep, and don't forget the craft MLM companies either. Plus, all the hardworking crafters who these companies call "designers" who do not even get paid. They get products, which they have to use and promote on RUclips, Instagram, TikTok, etc. I think that is even worse.
Thank you 🙏 for your research and valuable information 💡. I do feel sorry for all those that fell into the trap of "making the money" so support themselves, their families, only to find out often too late how much they got scammed. It is despicable that businesses like these companies are aloud to operate the way they do.
As a crafter I have run across a few of the bigger MLM companies. Stampin' Up, Close to my heart and one more I can't think of the name, but basically the tactics they use are awful. They push and push especially on YT and Instagram these days. I used to sell Pampered Chef but was no good because I didn't want to persuade anyone into buying what they didn't need! lol...What is sad is that there are so many who go into debt over these competitive companies. Competitive because of the tactics they use to get you hooked in then sell for them. Really bad all around. Thanks for shining a light on these. And since you like true crime, I suggest you look into the Shanna Gardner case-she is a daughter of the Stampin Up president and is accused of hiring a hit man to kill her ex-hubby who was a microsoft exec. Happened in Florida.
MLM companies have been around for many years, and it seems they just keep popping up always a new one. The MLM always come up with another company more persuasive with sales pitch. Stop light Go is the latest one that ive heard of. You bring it all out. Thank you for sharing all of this! I love the idea of canning rings i embroidery. Your jeans are so cute i like this idea repairing.
Wow, nik you have done more than your homework. Your info is really going to help someone out there cause I don't think people who sign in for MLMs even consider looking at the stats...I think you might be gifted in more areas than you know...oh yes and I love the use of a canning lid as a hoop....thanks again
My mom and one of her friends switch off each month buying what they want from Young Living. They didn’t join to earn money, they don’t do parties or anything, they just wanted the oils. My mom has done tons of these companies but never made anything from her efforts. Usually it was just to get the “discount” (with minimum purchase requirements that most likely make the discount pointless… 🤔)
I do know a few people who have done very well off MLMs (millions or close to it), but it is absolutely true that the odds favor the house. In my friends' cases, the one thing they had in common is that they were world class salespeople and they would make 6 figures min. wherever they landed and whatever they were selling. Those are rare individuals and anyone with even a hint of introversion should run the other way from mlms.
Hi Nik, I tried the Forever Aloe vera, and did know quite a few who made a lot of money, but like the others have said I couldn’t go round pushing products on friends and soon realised this was not something I wanted to do. You have to spend hours mentoring others to get more people to join and that is exhausting! I do still use the product because it is the best, but as a business opportunity, you are so right. Thanks for all your research! And great mending.🤗😆
This would have been great info to know a few months ago, but i am slowly learning it all know, bits and pieces being told to late, when it should all be upfront, you live and you learn for sure.. and hopefully dont repeat.
Yep!👍🏼 Old enough here to have been through and seen enough of these go by and NOT ONCE seen anyone EVER get rich from one of these things… In fact EVERYONE I’ve known or met ended up more poor than they were when they started… FACT! And sadly it is usually those (desperate) that can least afford to get bit by these things. Just my experience and personal observations. Ask anyone if they personally know ANYONE who is rich off of MLM …? Yeah, thought so… 🧐😏 Thanks Nik, nailed it once again!!! 💖💝
I did direct sales for 15 years. The worse thing about mlm selling is eventually people see you coming and run the other way because they consider you a problem. Most of the time they avoid you because you are associated with selling stuff people don't need and first they will try to buy from you to "help you get started" but after awhile even your family or friends go "oh no! Here she comes! What's she selling now?" Because it takes lots of sales from the newbies to get them to work hard so they can get to the next level in the company. I was selling insurance, newspaper ads, magazines & frozen foods after i was in Amway and Tiara exclusives handmade glassware. I won awards, trips, steak dinners, etc. but i burnt out. You have to hustle 24/7 to even pay your living expenses on these type jobs. Now i don't want to be in a bunch of people, i just want to hibernate at home doing my own thing.
One thing to remember is that most of the people joining these organizations are not doing it to support a family of six. These are supplemental incomes at most. They primarily sign up to support their habit.
what a great way to patch up your jeans lol - thank you for the time you spent on gathering this info - yep i tried it - epic fail - and dropped out of them each and every time - i tried Amway - Pampered Chef - Mary Kaye and Tupperware - not worth the time - the effort or the money you need to spend - thanks for informing others Nik
It's ridiculous they can make that much money. I worked for three of those companies, and we had to sell so much each month too, but then when tax time came, I got screwed because my CPA was a true stickler and ANY inventory I had on hand, I got screwed and had to pay for that. So I bought to stay active and had to pay again on my taxes due to inventory. I ended up making nothing, yet 3 levels above were driving Cadilacs they earned off the lower "partners". I lost BIGTIME, yet the upper levels were making money, but they have been out of business for about 10 years. Blair, Tupperware and Home Interiors. H.I. was the worst.
WOW! I was thinking what a GREAT thesis your investigation would be in some advanced markenting/ethics class!! A++ to you. I have several family members who are in these types of business systems. They are SO passionate about the product and opportunities. I am happy for them but not interested AT ALL in joining them. My reasons were not as 'educated' as yours. I just didn't want to have to hound my family and friends to join so that I would be able to make money. That dynamic really seems to muddle the waters of what the relationship is about. [and I LOVED to watch you sew while you walked us through the MLM dynamics.]
Thanks for using your detective sleuthing skills to expose this information. Ehyile i have used some ify these products, and even gone to recruitment meetings, i KNOW I am not cut out for saies or convincing ithers to follow me. Plus i dintt know enough people.
Years ago…over 30 I tried to sell MK. Lived in a small rural town and it became saturated very quickly. Learned my lesson. I have purchased from Tupperware back in the 80’s…still using some of the pieces. Also, purchased Lularoe…quality was very poor. The only things I wish still came door to door are Stanley Brush sales. Those were great products.
I was in MaryKay in the 90s (pre-HIPPA) my OB/GYN retired and one of his nurses used his patient list as her own personal cold call list. I trusted her having known her for several years while I had my 3 kids…. Ugh, I lost so much money!(>$3000) Then got hooked into Pampered Chef after that and sold enough to get free stuff for my kitchen, so I didn’t feel abused like MK bc I didn’t have to stick “inventory”… But you only need so much kitchen stuff so I quit that one easily and then in 2015, YoungLiving came into my life…. Sigh. Still purchase from them and I’ve made a bit of money, but I consider it “cash back” not “income”. I’m slowly moving to other companies (nonMLM) for my essential oils, like SimplyEarth and Revive. I love the oils and want them to have some level of purity-- unlike the junk from China at the dollar store and Walmart… But, yeah, thanks for the video, it was really good. Very truthful and knowing this stuff before I signed in with anyone them, would have stopped me. (Except maybe Pampered Chef, bc I loved the stuff for my kitchen…)
MLM's. All anyone has to remember (take this on board, get the picture, stop being delulu Aunt Sally) is that if Person A buys into the hype (joins the organization) then THE ONLY CUSTOMER IS PERSON A. Every. single. person. who buys into the MLM "get rich by thursday" storyline by "signing up ex friends" (because they'll be ex friends really quickly) IS THE CUSTOMER. Because invariably these schemes require that Person A buy monthly quotas of product. That's it. That's all. Person A is the customer. If Person B signs up, (cousin Julie), under the same illusion, then Person B is also a customer. That's it. That's the entire picture. If you have to buy X amount of product per time period, in order to "reap profits" you are the customer.
I have several friends who have sold Mary Kay, Avon, Scentsy, etc. for years and say they do it for cheaper products. I’ve never had any interest and fortunately they have never preyed on me to buy. I repair jeans a similar way only with the sewing machine. I use an iron on patch on the inside and then messy stitch all over it. Not as pretty as yours but it does the job.
Wow Nik, this is sooo helpful! And all the comments very helpful as well! Thanks for stirring the pot! Is it me, or have you been laying low for health reasons? Good to see you again! 😊
Your hoop is genius. I didn’t hear the bit about a diy ring of chipboard, but knew it would be diy. I have small hoops that I purchased, but then I don’t have the satisfaction of spending zero $. I really love to listen to you, but my teeny tiny math brain shrunk three sizes this day. 🌀😮👍🏼
30 some years ago I joined Mary Kay. I'm not an outgoing person so I knew I wasn't going to make tons of money. I mostly did it to meet and be around other women. I was in a new town far-away from where I grew up. I lost money but I had fun going to meetings and a conference for a while. I can't remember why I got out of it. I don't regret joining. I didn't stay in it long either. Unfortunately, there will always be naive people who fall for the scam. I don't understand how these companies can be legal. They are basically pyramid schemes, that are illegal.
I had a friend who sold Nutrimetics, she was so lovely, but we all knew that she wasn't getting a lot out of the sales she made. We did like a lot of the products, so we bought a lot of them, but it was an unspoken thing that everyone in our friend group did to help her out. Her husband was in the military so a few years later they moved to another state and we all lost contact. I wonder to this day if she kept up with selling Nutrimetics.
MLMs: Annoy Your Friends And Family Marketing. Your analogy of the weather report is GENIUS! As is using the canning jar lid. Now I know how I'm going to repair the rip in my jeans from that belligerent rooster!
Awesome video! I sold mary kay and Avon in my younger years. I wish I knew then what I know now. Young people put them on the block list. Its definitely not worth it.
My best friend is a MLM junkie. I swear if I did not like her so dang much we would have ceased being friends long ago. She has sold everything from vitamins to jewelry to home interior. She would constantly harass me to have parties, buy things, or sign up to sell in her downline. I finally told her to cut it out or else. Now she sells stick on fingernails and eyelashes (another MLM). She does not bug me with it though, thank God!
What put me off stuff like this....encouraged to sell cookies, candy, etc...through school or clubs as a kid. As an adult, friends and co- workers encouraging me to buy Avon, Tupperware etc.. I am also very careful about Patreon....which I've seen many RUclips video creators offering...a monthly fee for extended content. Those things can quickly become a " money pit".
Trying to fundraise door to door as a kid and failing, and trying to be a Salesperson in a real job as an adult, has shown me that I am simply not a salesperson. I am a customer service person. I like to help people , not rip them off or manipulate them.
I would bet most people who get involved would not understand income disclosure statements or know to look. My friend's aunt was in one of these and was selling essential oils. When she passed they found out she had taken out big loans to pay for these products. Very sad.
I have to agree with the commenter that said MLM is just another name for pyramid scheme. I took a look at that MIT website and put figures in for the area in which I live. I couldn't believe the difference between minimum wage versus living wage. The living wage was almost $5 an hour more. Now here I am retired, trying to live on Social Security which equals less than $8 an hour. When I was working full-time and trying to to support two growing Boys on my own, who could afford to put money aside in the IRAs and 401k? I even sometimes worked three jobs at one time. This nation is got to work on how we can support ourselves without being at the poverty level when we have worked our ass off all of our life.
Also the thing about SEINT is that when the owner of the company (originally Maskcara) launched her product online as a beauty blogger. Companies like Free People, Ulta, Sephora, Anthropology wanted to sell her product, but she wanted to distribute a product that was high quality and affordable. She wanted to provide a way to compensate people that we already sharing the product. So establishing a MLM was the only way. If you have a social media following, you will be successful! I choose to run my business differently.
Sadly, the MLM way of business is only beneficial for a small percentage of the company. If you look at Seint's 2022 income disclosure, only 219 out of 26,548 make a livable wage. Unless the 26,329 that don't make a livable wage only signed up to get a discount, its easy to see how flawed the system is. I just encourage anyone who is in an MLM business to routinely calculate their profit margin and how much $ they are making per hour. A lot of these folks are working so hard with the idea that they have to hustle and sacrifice in order to make it big, only they never do. Its heartbreaking. In my opinion, the founder of Seint would have done better if she'd sold to retail companies and set up a true affiliate program (not multi-level) if she wanted to compensate fans of the product. But, then, that's my opinion. Thank you for adding your 2 cents, its much appreciated!
Years ago my husband came home from playing basketball with some buddies and said "I think we're going to start selling Amway on the side." And I replied "I think we're NOT. That's a hard NO!" He asked why. I said "Because I don't want our family and friends to begin avoiding us and stop inviting us to any get-togethers or fun activities. Nobody likes being around folks who "sell" things like that. They're always looking for a new customer and I'm sick of saying "Please don't ever ask me again or I won't be polite next time and I really like/love you." So we didn't join Amway.
So THAT is how you use an iron-on with a patch material!
Your husband is lucky that you are wise.
I like the video. MLM are emotionally (as well as financially) manipulative cult-like organizations, and the more people see hard facts about them the better.
Definitely cult.
I applaud your use of the lid as an embroidery hoop! Genius!
What was on the inside of the lid?
Yeahhh… so can you explain that lid situation @nicthebooksmith?
I wanna know too!
yes what is that kind of hoop?
I want in on that knowledge please @nikthebooksmith !
What scares me is the way the MLM business model has infiltrated into mainstream business. I was employed by a company that announced a few years ago that employees were now 1099 contractors responsible for their own advertising and promotions. No more fixed wage, income was now a percentage of services sold. Sayonara
As a social worker I have seen this more and more. You pay a higher income tax on 1099 than regular income. But the BIG problem that many don't think about or realize is the employer is no longer paying into L&I, Social security or Medicare. If you get hurt on the job, there is nothing to fall back on. And if you try to file for disability or social security retirement, all of the years you worked for that employer isn't counted and hasn't accrued anything. I know someone will say...well you should be planning your retirement and not relying on the government. My answer, Absolutely!! But with all of the financial tides of the last few years, not everyone is where they want to be. Make damn sure you're not being paid with a 1099.
What’s really unnerving about MLM’s is that their message is directly targeted to appeal to people that are in vulnerable situations. They have the MO of coercive groups, they are comparable to cults in the way that they go for those that are vulnerable and offer them the “way out” but they are nothing but a horrible trap. THANK YOU NIC! You are the bomb 💣
Yes it especially is pitched to stay at home moms as a way to make money. Apparently it's quite pervasive among LDS members since there are so many SAHMs.
Even as a kid, I hated having to sell Girl Scout cookies. I never want to beg someone to buy my product, or for them to cave out of pity! Not for me!🙁
@@paulettepalmer4860 I'm glad that now they sell them as a troop rather than as individuals competing. Especially because then it ends up being more about your parents' social network than actual sales skills.
Thank you for posting this. I’ve watched several loved ones succumb to MLMs. All HS students should be required to watch this video. ❤
You nailed it, Nik! Nope, Nope, NOPE! I stay away from these schemes like the plague, for all the reasons you cite.
I sold Scentsy. I had some fun, made a few $ but mostly burned out. I did buy a monthly "special" new or on sale warmer and scent. I feel these companies are a pyramid scam and only the founding owners or top people make any money. Love the jean fix!!!
they are all operating as pyramid schemes that are violating FTC regulations!! the FTC just can't take them all down bc of limited resources.
Holy cow woman, the rabbit hole of research you must've went down is impressive! Love the positive peeve though❤❤❤ oh, and glad you got your favorite jeans mended up!
Hi Nik..nail on the head! Wish I had done the homework you did. Would have saved me 40 years of promise that went no where. I believed in myself and whatever the product was that I was promoting. I absolutely love sales. It comes easy to me because I dont lie about products. I even quit my corporate job to truly invest before I figured out I wasn't the problem. I tried Amway. Shackly, Avon, Mary Kay, arbonne, vemma.. wow listing them now I feel stupid. I can only say they are ALL a sham. A neverending goal that can never be reached by the common non celebrity person. However I did have fun in each before hitting the wall. I was determined I could breakthrough. In the end...not so much. TFS ❤
You shouldn't feel dumb. The people who start these companies make impossible promises. They know exactly what they're doing. Thank you for sharing, Denise, your input is invaluable!
Straight up facts in this vid. Anytime a woman that I don't know well or hasn't spoken to me in years tries to friend me on social media, the first thing I do is try to see if they are calling themselves an "independent distributor ", "consultant", "coach ", etc on their profile. No thanks. I need more friends, not more people trying to sell me things
They prey on desperate people who are just looking to have a better life for themselves and their families. Then when they don't make enough money, they are told they aren't putting in enough effort. These places are despicable and should be illegal. How we can be a progressive country and still allow this sort of garbage is beyond me.
Speak it for the people who don’t have the courage. You go girl!!!❤❤❤❤❤❤
Oh good gravy thank you! My sil, some years ago, sold cleaning products through a company called Melalucha. I think that's how it's spelled...anyway, she got her mother into selling under her and long story short my mil ended up being out 400 dollars because low and behold there was fine print. I was pressured for weeks to sell it with them. I mean...weeks! But I also had personal experience with an MLM. Back in college I had friends mother convince me to sell Mary Kay and I quickly learned how big of a scam it was. Despite all my warnings my MIL didn't listen and lost all her money. Fast forward to today my niece by marriage has gone through so many different MLMs. It is truly heartbreaking to watch. She just wants to make money on the side to make ends meet with the cost of living going up and these "companies" prey on people in these situations.
I want to make one more comment. You are by far my favorite book making RUclips STAR! Your work is not too feminine and teaches so much to the beginner and intermediate student.
Ironically, I just started watching Slaying Dragons and Taking Names from 4 years ago. You named your "dragon" Tim and ironically . . . my name is Tim. Just thought it was funny.
Blessings in the coming year, and I can't wait to see what you will bring to us all in 2024!
Thanks, Tim! So glad you didn't take my dragon's name personally 😄
Good video Nik! I have been a customer in the past and did sell Tupperware many many years ago but my goal was to just get cheap Tupperware for myself! This is a good reminder to always research. I’m going to share this one on my personal page as with the way he world is now and everyone looking for a little extra income to make it buy I feel they would be more vulnerable into getting into this.
You also reminded me I have two pairs of “shop jeans” with holes I need to mend fore I ruin my good jeans!
I did Tupperware as well. The most sales I made were to me.
40 years in . Many ups down ms but mostly good. Covid wasn't good to me . I'm customer service oriented. So online is my STRUGGLE. but I've made good friends and my adult kids are nice people 🙂 because I was home with them and their friends. $25. To start then use of discount. I knew people never hardly stay longer than 3 months . Win win 🏆. Do your kitchen and quit. 😂❤😂❤ . No strings, quit. We know it just have fun! 🎉 I love discount Divas. 🐝
That's a great point! I've known people to join those kinds of things - Tupperware or Pampered Chef....even Stampin' Up - with the goal of getting the things they want at a better price. If that's your goal, and the system works to meet that goal, then good for you!
Thank you so much for this information. I'm 60 years old and I have just sent this information to my children and my nieces and nephews. It's so important. I worked for years and years as a school aide. I worked very very hard and I never made enough money to not be in debt. Thank you for sharing these resources !!!!!!!🙏😢
Hey Nik and yes I know some who sold MaryKay that stopped because of this reason. It is a really sad pyramid. Thanks for sharing 😊.
Nik… I have to tell ya… I applaud you for exposing this wackadoodle ripoff scheme. I also applaud you for crafting at the same freaking time!!! I’m also pretty sure you’re dealing with physical discomfort at the same time given your chronic health crap. You’re really high up on the list of talented women I adore and admire. Nik, YOU are THE BOMB! Companies Ripping off women’s hard work, hopes and dreams, and exploiting them economically makes me want to puke. So how… ahem… does Etsy measure up? Oh, and the jeans are deluxe! 😊 I love ya, Nik the whistle smith! 🙃
The mason jar lid is a super hack! Very nice, Miss Nik!
Yay!!! New Nik the Booksmith video!
Thank you for sharing about the MLM vampires looking for their next victims.
They have no shame when they "hey, girl" cancer patients -- specifically seeking the most vulnerable. Despicable.
It happens so much that I wonder if it's suggested in their you're-not-working-hard-enough meetings 🤦
I'm glad you're calling out these MLM companies. They feed on the hopes & dreams of regular folks. LuLaRich is a documentary released in 2021 on Amazon Prime Video about an MLM and their insidious practices. Here in Idaho the 2022 list of top private companies in Idaho include Melaleuca (at number 5), and Scentsy (number 10). I've never known anyone who sells Melaleuca, but I know a lot of women who sell Scentsy, and all of them do it on the side, because as you demonstrated, it doesn't pay a living wage. I love that you have created this video. Keep on keepin' on, Nik!
This was super interesting, and I even enjoyed watching you stitch on your jeans. Big shocker that Stampin Up doesn’t publish an Income Disclosure Statement.
right? They've certainly been in business long enough to have those numbers.
I’ve only heard about Nuskin and Mary Kay but I’m in Norway.. a friend of mine sells Mary Kay and to be in the network all they have to do is place one order a year + a start package. I know several of her friends has jumped on that deal but only because they use the products themselves and doesn’t sell anything. Prices for their products are extremely high so a 50% off to buy the things you use is a god deal I guess. I’ve never even been tempted to this, like you said, if you don’t have a enormous network with the “right” people you’re going to have to use your friends more than what’s comfortable for both you and them.. Someone are born as a salesman though.. 😅
Thank you so much for giving the real deal breakdown! I knew things weren't quite what they seem with this system, but I didn't realize just how bad it really is. I've come close to signing up 2 or 3 times purely out of desperation, but warning bells went off and I didn't follow through. Each time my recruiter got almost nasty about it. Too bad my radar didn't work much for the rest of my life. Oh, I didn't have a radar for half of it, lol. I want to take this opportunity to tell you I love your videos, though I never thought I would get into bookbinding. I love to learn and I love your humor. Especially today with "pet my peeve", etc. Looking forward to the next one. Have a fantastic day/evening....
Thank you for the information. I truly appreciate folks who share their knowledge to help educate the rest of us!! Thanks Nik ❤
Great public service message. Brings lots of awareness.
Thanks for this info.I’ve always been skeptical of these companies. Wish you’d do a expose on the vacation package companies.
Those time shares? Great idea
My mom was in one of them years ago. We were 3 children and she worked at the post office in daytime selling products at the evening to get more money. Poor mom❤ we were in debt for years because she had to bye the starter kit and in contained products that no one wanted. Do not join that type of scam❤
So interesting to hear how these companies work. I've been tempted, in the past, but then I've stopped myself and thought that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Love the finishing on your jeans! Hope you're well.
Craft and gripe about MLMs?? Sign me up
The Amazon documentary Lularich sure turned me off of MLM's.
There are many channels that are made by people who were burned.
Really appreciate this video! I have never been a fan of MLM‘s, but I am saddened that so many people fall into the trap. They sell their first round to their friends and family. But then they get stuck, because unless they go set up somewhere up or start advertising on social media, it is terribly difficult to sell the products. And the numbers don’t reflect the amount of time that goes into all of this. It is running a small business and most people have to do a full-time job in conjunction with it. It is exhausting and can affect your mental health. Between high pressure selling, trying to keep up with the level, and the risk of feeling like a failure someone’s metal health would become fragile. Thanks for the psa 😂. And great tip to use mason jar lid! Hugs ❤️🤗
Nik, that was so interesting and informative, thank you. Sounds very much like a variation on what used to be called a ‘pyramid’ scheme. Great patch repairs on the jeans and excellent idea to use mason jar lids for sewing ring, I will definitely be giving this a try ❤
they are all operating as pyramid schemes that are violating FTC regulations!! the FTC just can't take them all down bc of limited resources.
When I saw jeans, I thought you would be making bookcloth out of it 😂 while venting about MLM. Stitching is beautiful and I love the fabric. I have a pair of old jeans and am now thinking that maybe I should turn it into bookcloth 😊😊 for a sketchbook. Jeans would be a good fabric for "on the go" kind of sketchbook, to withstand wear and tear in my bag. Thanks for the inspo.
Love this kind of crossover! Just finished the last season of The Dream podcast while working on a bookbinding project ❤
Funny story here. I'm in the UK, English to be exact. Back in the mid 70s I lived in the US and came across Amway. It didnt take long for me and my new husband, in our mid 20s, to realise we didnt like the company ethos, the structure, the products or the people. We never even signed up. Then in 1996, back in the UK, a former boss (retired Australian diplomat) and his English wife started 'courting' me, with what I later thought of as the bullshit story to recruit me, WITHOUT telling me the name of the company. I was at a difficult stage in my life. Newly divorced, one child aged 12. They came up to see me (3 hr drive), and I was so excited. Anyway, after much pleasantry, all kinds of amazing promises, my excitement topped up, they said the word with deep reverence. Yeah, you guessed. Amway. I was shocked and speechless for a split second and then fell about laughing. I could not believe it. These were intelligent, highly educated people! How had they drunk the koolaid?!? Anyway, they were very put out, offended I thought it was funny, but still they persisted. Like cult leaders. I can't remember how I got them out of my house but I never saw them again. So much for 'we want to help you make a good living, dear Maggie, cos we love you'. Bollocks to that! 😂
Love your patche, Nik!
Thank you! Good statistical analysis. I hope people pay attention to you. Even as a side gig, these crazy things are NOT a good idea to try to actually make money.
PS my younger sister's husband was in these nasty scams. Wouldn't ever dream of being involved. Not entrepreneurial inclined
Only the top tier ever makes any money. The same people start a new scheme. Then again taking the best people with them again and again taking the cream off the top. Everyone loses except the top level
You have to go conferences and seminars and pay for yourself and your recruitment prospects
Everyone in the comments deeply appreciating the insight while I'm just happy to have heard "it's like a game of Chutes and Ladders on crack" and trying to figure out how to work it into future conversations 😅
that is a a lot of research--good job, well said. I am not a fan of buying from MLM nor would I sell for MLM. It is wild to me how many folks get suckered into them. Just keeping track of the paperwork is a full time job, I have never known even one person who made money in an MLM.
We called it pyramid sales! Thanks for sharing it with us! ❤
This is way older than pyramid sales...Amway certainly has been around for decades.
I would also caution people that if they intend to buy products from a friend in an MLM, that they insist on buying directly from that friend and paying with cash. I made the mistake of ordering some lip balm from a friend who was selling Young Living, and before I knew it, I was getting texts and emails from her up-line saying “welcome to the team!” It took 18 months and a threat to turn her up-line and the company into the FCC before I finally got off their communication list. My friend was mortified that this company she believed so much in was so predatory towards a nonmember customer.
😳 wow!
I love this jeans hole fix/enhancement!---I am so over all of the gaslighting! With you on that!
Your way of mending reminds me of "sashiko" from Japan...very cute.
Actually I like it a lot, when you "discuss" interesting facts etc. while being creative... 🙂
I don't know about this MLM business. Maybe because I live in Europe. Or maybe because I'm not interested in all that stuff. Looks like pyramid scams to me! I would advise everybody to stay away! Thanks for sharing, Nik! ❤
It might be illegal over there. It's only legal here because the companies bribe politicians.
Thank you Nik. U are awesome for this. This is all true, some of my relatives got fooled into these pyramid schemes, such a shame. Lularoe, herbalife, passion parties, etc.
Great video. I hope people considering MLM's get to see this as you explain it really well.
MLM's are a massive con & cause so much damage to people. Mostly honest people who are just trying to find ways to survive financially.
Thanks for sharing your research on this. It's purposely so shady, I'm sure you've shone a brighter light on it for people like me who knew about these schemes being dodgy but not really understanding why. Cheers for the video.
Love your Jean repair. ☺️
I was in involved with MK in the early 2000s. The woman who signed me up was despicable. Needless to say, I didn’t last long and was thankful that I had willing customers on eBay to buy up my inventory. 😅
Great way to mend jeans. Fantastic idea to use the lid. I think it will look great if I take a piece from an old jean, make a fake tear in it, fix it the way you just did, and then add it as a parch on a JJ with a soft cover. I love using denim in my journal covers 😊
Yep, and don't forget the craft MLM companies either. Plus, all the hardworking crafters who these companies call "designers" who do not even get paid. They get products, which they have to use and promote on RUclips, Instagram, TikTok, etc. I think that is even worse.
Thank you 🙏 for your research and valuable information 💡. I do feel sorry for all those that fell into the trap of "making the money" so support themselves, their families, only to find out often too late how much they got scammed. It is despicable that businesses like these companies are aloud to operate the way they do.
As a crafter I have run across a few of the bigger MLM companies. Stampin' Up, Close to my heart and one more I can't think of the name, but basically the tactics they use are awful. They push and push especially on YT and Instagram these days. I used to sell Pampered Chef but was no good because I didn't want to persuade anyone into buying what they didn't need! lol...What is sad is that there are so many who go into debt over these competitive companies. Competitive because of the tactics they use to get you hooked in then sell for them. Really bad all around. Thanks for shining a light on these. And since you like true crime, I suggest you look into the Shanna Gardner case-she is a daughter of the Stampin Up president and is accused of hiring a hit man to kill her ex-hubby who was a microsoft exec. Happened in Florida.
That was in my old neighborhood 😮
Wow, just looked that one up, incredible story!
MLM companies have been around for many years, and it seems they just keep popping up always a new one. The MLM always come up with another company more persuasive with sales pitch. Stop light Go is the latest one that ive heard of. You bring it all out. Thank you for sharing all of this! I love the idea of canning rings i embroidery. Your jeans are so cute i like this idea repairing.
Wow, nik you have done more than your homework. Your info is really going to help someone out there cause I don't think people who sign in for MLMs even consider looking at the stats...I think you might be gifted in more areas than you know...oh yes and I love the use of a canning lid as a hoop....thanks again
this is such an important topic, thank you for sharing ❤❤
Yeah…over 40 years ago, my husband and I were invited to a party. Turned out to be a pitch for Amway. We left. Need I say more. Love the mending!
Momma used to fix holes like this. 🌺🌺🌺
My mom and one of her friends switch off each month buying what they want from Young Living. They didn’t join to earn money, they don’t do parties or anything, they just wanted the oils. My mom has done tons of these companies but never made anything from her efforts. Usually it was just to get the “discount” (with minimum purchase requirements that most likely make the discount pointless… 🤔)
I had relatives who sold Amway that tried to convince my mom to sell it after my dad died. She refused, thank God. What a mess that could have been
I do know a few people who have done very well off MLMs (millions or close to it), but it is absolutely true that the odds favor the house. In my friends' cases, the one thing they had in common is that they were world class salespeople and they would make 6 figures min. wherever they landed and whatever they were selling. Those are rare individuals and anyone with even a hint of introversion should run the other way from mlms.
TX so much! You just helped me dodge a bullet and I have taken too many already. Be safe
Hi Nik, I tried the Forever Aloe vera, and did know quite a few who made a lot of money, but like the others have said I couldn’t go round pushing products on friends and soon realised this was not something I wanted to do. You have to spend hours mentoring others to get more people to join and that is exhausting! I do still use the product because it is the best, but as a business opportunity, you are so right. Thanks for all your research! And great mending.🤗😆
This would have been great info to know a few months ago, but i am slowly learning it all know, bits and pieces being told to late, when it should all be upfront, you live and you learn for sure.. and hopefully dont repeat.
Guess its good that you found out now and not months from now, but it still sucks. I'm sorry this happened to you. =/
I have a few friends who got into young living and always felt sorry for them
Yep!👍🏼 Old enough here to have been through and seen enough of these go by and NOT ONCE seen anyone EVER get rich from one of these things… In fact EVERYONE I’ve known or met ended up more poor than they were when they started… FACT! And sadly it is usually those (desperate) that can least afford to get bit by these things. Just my experience and personal observations. Ask anyone if they personally know ANYONE who is rich off of MLM …? Yeah, thought so… 🧐😏
Thanks Nik, nailed it once again!!! 💖💝
“Things that should be illegal, for $500, Alex…” #pyramidschemes
I did direct sales for 15 years. The worse thing about mlm selling is eventually people see you coming and run the other way because they consider you a problem. Most of the time they avoid you because you are associated with selling stuff people don't need and first they will try to buy from you to "help you get started" but after awhile even your family or friends go "oh no! Here she comes! What's she selling now?"
Because it takes lots of sales from the newbies to get them to work hard so they can get to the next level in the company.
I was selling insurance, newspaper ads, magazines & frozen foods after i was in Amway and Tiara exclusives handmade glassware.
I won awards, trips, steak dinners, etc. but i burnt out. You have to hustle 24/7 to even pay your living expenses on these type jobs.
Now i don't want to be in a bunch of people, i just want to hibernate at home doing my own thing.
Interesting peeve. Thanks for the info. I love how you patched your jeans, too!
One thing to remember is that most of the people joining these organizations are not doing it to support a family of six. These are supplemental incomes at most. They primarily sign up to support their habit.
great research. thanks for sharing your results
Stampin Up is the worst MLM!
what a great way to patch up your jeans lol - thank you for the time you spent on gathering this info - yep i tried it - epic fail - and dropped out of them each and every time - i tried Amway - Pampered Chef - Mary Kaye and Tupperware - not worth the time - the effort or the money you need to spend - thanks for informing others Nik
It's ridiculous they can make that much money. I worked for three of those companies, and we had to sell so much each month too, but then when tax time came, I got screwed because my CPA was a true stickler and ANY inventory I had on hand, I got screwed and had to pay for that. So I bought to stay active and had to pay again on my taxes due to inventory. I ended up making nothing, yet 3 levels above were driving Cadilacs they earned off the lower "partners". I lost BIGTIME, yet the upper levels were making money, but they have been out of business for about 10 years. Blair, Tupperware and Home Interiors. H.I. was the worst.
Lol! I just made a patch for my son's shirt and I used a canning ring🤣
WOW! I was thinking what a GREAT thesis your investigation would be in some advanced markenting/ethics class!! A++ to you. I have several family members who are in these types of business systems. They are SO passionate about the product and opportunities. I am happy for them but not interested AT ALL in joining them. My reasons were not as 'educated' as yours. I just didn't want to have to hound my family and friends to join so that I would be able to make money. That dynamic really seems to muddle the waters of what the relationship is about. [and I LOVED to watch you sew while you walked us through the MLM dynamics.]
Thanks for using your detective sleuthing skills to expose this information. Ehyile i have used some ify these products, and even gone to recruitment meetings, i KNOW I am not cut out for saies or convincing ithers to follow me. Plus i dintt know enough people.
Years ago…over 30 I tried to sell MK. Lived in a small rural town and it became saturated very quickly. Learned my lesson. I have purchased from Tupperware back in the 80’s…still using some of the pieces. Also, purchased Lularoe…quality was very poor. The only things I wish still came door to door are Stanley Brush sales. Those were great products.
My father works for amway so the thumbnail just caught my eye for a moment. I'm still watching the video.
I was in MaryKay in the 90s (pre-HIPPA) my OB/GYN retired and one of his nurses used his patient list as her own personal cold call list. I trusted her having known her for several years while I had my 3 kids…. Ugh, I lost so much money!(>$3000)
Then got hooked into Pampered Chef after that and sold enough to get free stuff for my kitchen, so I didn’t feel abused like MK bc I didn’t have to stick “inventory”…
But you only need so much kitchen stuff so I quit that one easily and then in 2015, YoungLiving came into my life…. Sigh.
Still purchase from them and I’ve made a bit of money, but I consider it “cash back” not “income”. I’m slowly moving to other companies (nonMLM) for my essential oils, like SimplyEarth and Revive. I love the oils and want them to have some level of purity-- unlike the junk from China at the dollar store and Walmart…
But, yeah, thanks for the video, it was really good. Very truthful and knowing this stuff before I signed in with anyone them, would have stopped me. (Except maybe Pampered Chef, bc I loved the stuff for my kitchen…)
MLM's. All anyone has to remember (take this on board, get the picture, stop being delulu Aunt Sally) is that if Person A buys into the hype (joins the organization) then THE ONLY CUSTOMER IS PERSON A. Every. single. person. who buys into the MLM "get rich by thursday" storyline by "signing up ex friends" (because they'll be ex friends really quickly) IS THE CUSTOMER. Because invariably these schemes require that Person A buy monthly quotas of product. That's it. That's all. Person A is the customer. If Person B signs up, (cousin Julie), under the same illusion, then Person B is also a customer. That's it. That's the entire picture. If you have to buy X amount of product per time period, in order to "reap profits" you are the customer.
And don’t forget about Mary Kay, the pink pyramid scheme! Great video, Nik!
I have several friends who have sold Mary Kay, Avon, Scentsy, etc. for years and say they do it for cheaper products. I’ve never had any interest and fortunately they have never preyed on me to buy. I repair jeans a similar way only with the sewing machine. I use an iron on patch on the inside and then messy stitch all over it. Not as pretty as yours but it does the job.
Yippie, it’s Nik!
Great patch job! The canning lid idea winner winner chicken dinner. :)
Wow Nik, this is sooo helpful! And all the comments very helpful as well! Thanks for stirring the pot!
Is it me, or have you been laying low for health reasons? Good to see you again! 😊
Thanks Linda! Yeah, I'm just treading water here, doing what I can on days I feel decent. =)
Your hoop is genius. I didn’t hear the bit about a diy ring of chipboard, but knew it would be diy. I have small hoops that I purchased, but then I don’t have the satisfaction of spending zero $. I really love to listen to you, but my teeny tiny math brain shrunk three sizes this day. 🌀😮👍🏼
Lol thanks Mara! The bit about the chipboard ring was just a caption on the screen cuz I forgot to explain it.
@@NiktheBooksmith 💜💜💜
30 some years ago I joined Mary Kay. I'm not an outgoing person so I knew I wasn't going to make tons of money. I mostly did it to meet and be around other women. I was in a new town far-away from where I grew up. I lost money but I had fun going to meetings and a conference for a while. I can't remember why I got out of it. I don't regret joining. I didn't stay in it long either.
Unfortunately, there will always be naive people who fall for the scam. I don't understand how these companies can be legal. They are basically pyramid schemes, that are illegal.
I had a friend who sold Nutrimetics, she was so lovely, but we all knew that she wasn't getting a lot out of the sales she made. We did like a lot of the products, so we bought a lot of them, but it was an unspoken thing that everyone in our friend group did to help her out. Her husband was in the military so a few years later they moved to another state and we all lost contact. I wonder to this day if she kept up with selling Nutrimetics.
I've stopped following some folks on YT that start selling stuff under MLMs. I don't need an ad from the content creator AND from google.
MLMs: Annoy Your Friends And Family Marketing. Your analogy of the weather report is GENIUS! As is using the canning jar lid. Now I know how I'm going to repair the rip in my jeans from that belligerent rooster!
Ooh, MLM taglines! It's brill! MLMs, Destroying Relationships since 1932. 😄
@@NiktheBooksmith BAHAHAHA That could be trademarked. 😂
Love using the jar ring. BUT, what did you put on the inside to keep the fabric taunt? Thankyou.
Lol fabric tight.
hi phyllis! its a ring of chipboard that I cut out with an x-acto knife
Awesome video! I sold mary kay and Avon in my younger years. I wish I knew then what I know now. Young people put them on the block list. Its definitely not worth it.
My best friend is a MLM junkie. I swear if I did not like her so dang much we would have ceased being friends long ago. She has sold everything from vitamins to jewelry to home interior. She would constantly harass me to have parties, buy things, or sign up to sell in her downline. I finally told her to cut it out or else. Now she sells stick on fingernails and eyelashes (another MLM). She does not bug me with it though, thank God!
What put me off stuff like this....encouraged to sell cookies, candy, etc...through school or clubs as a kid. As an adult, friends and co- workers encouraging me to buy Avon, Tupperware etc.. I am also very careful about Patreon....which I've seen many RUclips video creators offering...a monthly fee for extended content. Those things can quickly become a " money pit".
Trying to fundraise door to door as a kid and failing, and trying to be a Salesperson in a real job as an adult, has shown me that I am simply not a salesperson.
I am a customer service person. I like to help people , not rip them off or manipulate them.
I would bet most people who get involved would not understand income disclosure statements or know to look. My friend's aunt was in one of these and was selling essential oils. When she passed they found out she had taken out big loans to pay for these products. Very sad.
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I have to agree with the commenter that said MLM is just another name for pyramid scheme. I took a look at that MIT website and put figures in for the area in which I live. I couldn't believe the difference between minimum wage versus living wage. The living wage was almost $5 an hour more. Now here I am retired, trying to live on Social Security which equals less than $8 an hour. When I was working full-time and trying to to support two growing Boys on my own, who could afford to put money aside in the IRAs and 401k? I even sometimes worked three jobs at one time. This nation is got to work on how we can support ourselves without being at the poverty level when we have worked our ass off all of our life.
agreed!
Also the thing about SEINT is that when the owner of the company (originally Maskcara) launched her product online as a beauty blogger. Companies like Free People, Ulta, Sephora, Anthropology wanted to sell her product, but she wanted to distribute a product that was high quality and affordable. She wanted to provide a way to compensate people that we already sharing the product. So establishing a MLM was the only way. If you have a social media following, you will be successful! I choose to run my business differently.
Sadly, the MLM way of business is only beneficial for a small percentage of the company. If you look at Seint's 2022 income disclosure, only 219 out of 26,548 make a livable wage. Unless the 26,329 that don't make a livable wage only signed up to get a discount, its easy to see how flawed the system is. I just encourage anyone who is in an MLM business to routinely calculate their profit margin and how much $ they are making per hour. A lot of these folks are working so hard with the idea that they have to hustle and sacrifice in order to make it big, only they never do. Its heartbreaking. In my opinion, the founder of Seint would have done better if she'd sold to retail companies and set up a true affiliate program (not multi-level) if she wanted to compensate fans of the product. But, then, that's my opinion. Thank you for adding your 2 cents, its much appreciated!