Miscellaneous Archive
July 21, 2008
Is this what it has come to?
Posted by Truth
When I first started blogging about Amway and Quixtar there were a number of blogs and sites about this opportunity and each seemed to have it's own niche. Quixtar Blog seemed to be one that broke stories, had a variety of different weekly posts. Monday Reader Mail, Farcial Help Desk, etc, etc. xanadu had his infamous blog that broke down the tapes and the BS that was on them, Quixtar Demons went to town on WWDB group, and of course On the Road with Dave was and still is a unique blog with an active IBO who was not on either side per se, just really sensible about the whole thing.
Today while approving comments I received two comments that caught my attention. First one was from "whoz" (Scott Larsen) and the second from "joecool". Larsen's comment was about all the sites that Insider (David Steadson) apparently owns, and joecool made a comment that the article on Larsen's site was in his opinion "The Smoking Gun" that Steadson is on the Amway corporation payroll for what he does on the net.
Well no doubt I found the words "The Smoking Gun" interesting and so I headed over to Larsen's site to get the 411 (sorry, my teen told me I needed to try and talk more cool). I was thinking what could he possibly have, bank statements? wire transfers? corporate memo? communications between Steadson and Amway? Much to my dismay I found a bunch of information I already knew for quite sometime. Insider aka IBOFightback aka David Steadson owns many blogs and has a ton of videos on YouTube. The article pretty much tried to paint a picture that it is next to impossible that someone would have this much time to do what is being done without getting paid.
Well before I go any further first of all I have no idea if Insider is paid for what he does. Seems to me he is not, but I could be wrong. Second not one part of that article was anything near resembling a "smoking gun" in my opinion. A list of sites and some speculation does not a smoking gun make.
I decided to go ahead and look into all those sites that Insider is claimed to run since they were all nice and listed there for me to copy and paste in my browser. The first thing I noticed is that many of those sites are blogspot which means they are free to own and operate. From the other sites I can't imagine a burden of cost that is all that great. So now the only thing to look into was the amount of time that was being spent.
Obviously the biggest chunk was the blogspot blogs that were created and so I checked into those first. Out of all of the free blogs I found a total of 81 posts, most blogs have been up for a year with only two being 3-4 years. Even so if you divide 81 posts by 52 weeks in a year that means Insider posted 1.5 times a week. Not very hard to do. Larsen also referred to Insider as a "frequent" editor of the Wikipedia Amway listing. A quick check over there showed roughly 29 edits in a year, which translates to about .5 edits a week. Yet again, not hard to do, and hardly what I would call "frequent".
The other sites owned by Insider seem to be what takes up the bulk of his time spent on this issue. First you have this Truth about Amway site, this is a site that I check out from time to time and I can say for sure that new articles are not going up everyday on the blog, and many of the other articles are cookie cut from news headlines about Amway.
The Amway Watch site is (or was supposed to be) about Amway news only with no other kind of commentary. At least that is what I was told in a private message when I inquired about it. Again most of the articles seem to be cut from headlines with news about Amway or Quixtar. But just for Insider don't think I didn't notice the links at the bottom to many "commentary" articles as well. Something I was told was not going to be part of the site.
Finally Amway Talk and Amway Wiki are the other sites. Amway Talk is a forum and I think that is self-explanatory. Amway Wiki could use up a great deal of time, but I also know there are others who are posting and editing at that site as well. Certainly not a one man effort.
Now don't get me wrong I am no fan of Insider. I have discussions with him on his site from time to time and just recently got on him for trying to paint the conclusion that Larsen makes big coin from his site ads. I also refer to him sarcastically on this site from time to time as well. In my opinion he is the master of the Amway spin, and can usually spin his way out of anything. In the end if you are honest with yourself you have to have to give him a little respect cause he won't back down and he isn't your average everyday drive-by commenter like so many other IBOs who comment on this site.
In the end I have to ask the question "Is this what is has come to?" As far as I am concerned I believe there are still issues with this business and abuses going on in Lines of Sponsorship. Matter of fact from some of the comments and e-mails I get I know it is still going on. But from both sides (Insider included) it seems anything will do when trying to paint a conclusion about others on the web. From comparing critics to jihadists, and posting such vile things that even a Quixtar corporate blogger calls you a cyber-bully, to others wanting "some sort of medal" for their delusional self-promotion of victory over another site, comparing Amway to Nazis, and agreeing with any sort of article, even though ten minutes of research would show it has no foundation, just because you dislike the person it was written about. Frankly, it's all starting to get just a bit ridiculous.
May 24, 2008
Memorial Day Tribute
Posted by Truth
For me Memorial Day means primarily one thing and that is honoring those who lost their lives in service to their country. Of course there are others who hold other meanings for this day and it is not my intent to belittle those meanings, but rather express who I think about on Memorial Day. This year, much like the past few years Memorial Day holds a more present meaning for many families around the country. Soldiers, Marines, Airmen, Sailors, and Coast Guard who have lost their lives not only to keep America free, but fighting for the freedom of others.
While this weekend also means travel plans for many, and getting together with family and friends please take time out to remember the hundreds of family and friends who are affected each time a warrior dies in service to his/her nation. Those who are in harms way have put everything on the line so keep them in your prayers, but raise you glasses, pay tribute, and remember those who sacrificed everything.
Please no political rants in your comments, whatever your views keep it about those who gave all.
April 5, 2008
Go Memphis
Posted by Truth
I don't really follow College Basketball or any basketball for that matter. Right now I am actually going through football withdrawals, and using baseball to get me through as rough as that is. But I know Qblog loves his Memphis basketball team and they are in the Final Four so I thought I would make mention of it and let's see if they can win it all.
January 17, 2008
Gotta Love Technology
Posted by Truth
I just saw an article on Fox News website about a Marine who was able to see his child born thanks to streaming video over a webcam. I thought it was a nice story to see. I know so many of those troops are not only in a high stress environment the likes of which many of us will never know, but many of them miss out on life back at home. Away from their young children missing some pretty special moments. I know it's not the same as being there, but it's pretty cool how technology can make moments like this happen.
January 11, 2008
How to consume more books
Posted by Truth
One activity that I enjoyed doing while in Quixtar was the reading of the books. While I would have preferred to get the book I wanted rather then just the book they were sending out that month I still enjoyed the task of reading nonetheless. I have often been told that going to a bookstore with me is much like the age old story of men going shopping with their wives. But I believe that reading on a regular basis is one of the best things you can do. One of the recent posts on one of my favorite sites lifehack.org has tips on how to become a glutton of reading with listed benefits of reading and tips on how to read even more books this year.
January 1, 2008
Happy New Year!
Posted by Truth
I hope everyone had a safe and fun New Year's Eve, and I hope for everyone to have a great and prosperous 2008.
December 25, 2007
Merry Christmas to all.
Posted by Truth
Just wishing a Merry Christmas to all who read this blog. Whether you agree, disagree, or in some cases severely disagree with me I hope you have a wonderful Christmas no matter how you are spending it.
December 15, 2007
Job Mentality Defined
Posted by Truth
Finally after all this time we now have the definition of "Job Mentality" thanks to a regular poster over at Insider's forums who goes by the name "TB2IBO". Here is the gem of wisdom from the oh wise one:
Job Mentality (as defined by me)--To negotiate the highest wage for the least amount of work possible. To always check results (ie.work a few hours and ask immediately "where's my check?") Desires security, although false as it is. Typically knows how to work hard, very hard for money, but doesn't always understand how money works.
So now a few comments of interesting things I noticed about this definition:
-First thing I notice is that they say it is "as defined by me", basically telling me they don't have it in them to call the spade a spade, they need that back door out.
-Next I point your attention to the arrogant, snobbish view of those who work for others. Saying that the objective is to do as little work as possible for the most money. I don't know about anyone else but I can say that many times I look for the work in my jobs to be challenging and fullfilling, and I seek a fair compensation for that work. But apparently to IBOs those of us who work are nothing more then blood sucking leeches. Wouldn't that put us in the same category as the Kingpins of AQMOs?
-I would also like you to notice that by this definition not only are those of us who have jobs blood sucking leeches, we are also apparently financially stupid. I find it amazing how apparently if you work hard for your money, you don't know how the money works. Is this to say then that if you don't work hard for your money, you do understand how it works? I will stop there but the questions left unanswered by that part of the definition could go on for a while.
Sadly as with many IBOs TB2IBO has failed to realize that no business, or business owner would be anything, or have any money if it was not for those who worked for them. Many times companies are taken to greatness not because of the person who founded the company, but rather because of an employee, or employees. I have said it before and will continue to say it, any IBO showing this kind of disdain towards those who hold a J-O-B doesn't know the first thing about business.
I assume in the interest of fairness TB2IBO also offered to define "business owner mentality" as well, I will be on pins and needles waiting.
November 22, 2007
Happy Thanksgiving!
Posted by Truth
A post that really needs no more to be said. So stop reading this blog, go watch some football, eat some turkey or whatever it is you have today, don't forget the troops who are not home with their families, and most importantly give thanks.
May 28, 2007
Memorial Day
Posted by Truth
I hope all of you take the time to reflect and give thanks for the sacrifices that were made so that we may enjoy the freedoms that we have today. You may not always agree with those that are elected to run this country, but never forget it is because of the sacrifices made by those who serve this great nation that you have the right to disagree.
"It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived." -General George S. Patton
April 17, 2007
Visiting San Francisco
Posted by QBlog
I'm currently in the Bay Area and will be here for the next couple of days. If you are around San Francisco and would like to have a drink with me, send an email (subject: San Francisco Drinks!) to webraw@gmail.com. I'll buy the first two rounds!
UPDATE: I'm home now. San Francisco was fun. I must return and see more of it. I was at the Web 2.0 Expo by the way.
April 16, 2007
Take Notice
Posted by Truth
With the tax deadline coming due very soon there are all kinds of articles to read about taxes and all the subjects that go along with that.
One article I found in the New York Times was interesting to me, and I thought many IBOs should also take notice. David Cay Johnston wrote an article today about the increased audits of the middle class and found some very interesting information about middle class Americans who run a business:
"Middle-class Americans most likely to have their tax returns examined under the new strategy are those who own a business, even a side business, or are landlords or have investment income."
"Middle-class taxpayers who file a Schedule C — freelancers, consultants and very small businesses — are three times as likely to be audited as those in the same income group with no such business income."
So make sure you got those records in order and all of your ducks in a row just in case the IRS comes a calling.
March 25, 2007
Tigers Fall
Posted by QBlog
Tigers lose to Ohio State. It was a great game until the final few minutes when OSU just ran away with it. Next year perhaps.
March 23, 2007
Tigers Advance
Posted by QBlog
The University of Memphis Tigers advance to the Elite Eight. Aggies, go F*#@ yourself.
February 27, 2007
My Exit Interview
Posted by Truth
After reading a post about performance reviews over at the Real Quixtar Blog, Dave Robison left a comment with a link to an exit interview that he put together for IBOs who quit the business for whatever reason. I read through it and found it interesting and figured "why not?", and decided to sit down for the exit interview. The questions will be in bold and my responses will be in normal text.
Name Drew
Immediate Sponsor We will call him Dwayne.
Date 2/27/2007
State Clear-minded and feeling good
Date Sponsored April 2003
Date of Separation Date I quit was October 2004
REASON FOR RESIGNATION
Another MLM Company Nope
Regular Employment Conflicts Nope
Unsatisfactory Income I think this is an understatement
Hours of Work Unsatisfactory For the compensation, most certainly
Family Conflicts Not really, nothing major
Other Oh I am sure I could think of a few.
1. What are your reasons for leaving? And, what prompted you to leave now?
Well the reasons can get quite long, but in a nutshell I just don't feel like this is worth the effort that is being put into it, this same effort channeled elsewhere would be more productive. What prompted me to leave now is that I have gotten involved in another opportunity, and my upline's reaction to this has told me all I need to know about them, and I know it's time to move on.
2. What was the most enjoyable part of representing this company?
The people. I enjoyed contacting people (even though I felt like a stalker) and showing plans to them. I really enjoyed many of the folks as part of various teams. Lots of memories and good stories to tell.
3. What was the least enjoyable part of representing this company?
The deceit that goes on in the business. Not mentioning the Quixtar name, things that are said just to get someone to a meeting, things that happen in the open meetings, etc.
4. Was this business opportunity what you expected? Please explain.
Not really. I thought there would be an even focus on the aspects of the business and in reality the major focus was on sponsoring new IBOs, and very little, if any, focus was placed on actually selling the products.
5. Would you have made any changes to the way your business operated? If yes, please describe.
Yes, first I would do away with SOT and Book of the month. I would encourage people to buy their books through B&N partner store. There are plenty of resources out there to find good motivational and business related books. I would put more focus and training on selling the products rather then stalking people at malls and trying to sponsor everyone with a pulse. Just to name a few things I would do different.
6. Would you ever consider representing this company again? If not, please explain.
No, not because of my experience so much, but rather because I have moved on to other things that take the time I have. They are much more enjoyable and profitable for me and I would choose them over Quixtar.
7. What did you like most about this company? And, what did you like least about this company?
Didn't I already answer this? As far as Quixtar the company goes I liked the Ditto Delivery program, it was very handy. I didn't like how everyone just seemed to clam up when it came to discussing the criticism of this business. To much secrecy about nothing, made me wonder what everyone was afraid of.
8. Would you still recommend this business opportunity or team and our products in the future
I would not recommend the team I was with. However, I will side with Robert Kiyosaki and I would recommend network marketing for the skills that one can learn from trying to build a network marketing business. I would not recommend Quixtar for it's compensation.
9. As a new distributor, was your training helpful for what you were actually doing six months later? If not, please explain.
No, many of the things I was taught to do was very counter-productive. Such as don't sign up anyone who is not willing to get on tools. I learned some things from upline, but most of my learning just came from experience. I ended up using very little of what I learned from the system.
10. What could have been done to prevent you from leaving?
Most likely nothing. There was nothing that could have been done at the end, it would have had to have been a different experience all together.
11. What was the quality of supervision you received? Good? Fair? Poor? What could your sponsor or team do to improve his/her management style?
Communicate? Motivate? Facilitate? Recognize? Other? Please explain
Depends on what your idea of supervision is. I would say it was pretty much micro-management. My upline needed to stop meddling in the downline group so much. Many times my sponsor and upline stepped way over the line, and in some cases got just downright rude.
12. What does your new company offer that this company does not offer?
Much, much better money for my efforts.
13. What points would you make if you could tell your entire upline how you feel about this company?
Basically the points I have made in this entire interview. I don't hold anything against them personally, I just don't agree how they handled situations and how things were done in general.
Final comments
So there it is, that is my exit interview make of it what you will. I am sure many of my answers could spur some follow on questions. So if you have other questions feel free to ask and I will answer them the best I can. I am sure there will be some of you who will do nothing more then make snide comments about how I was lazy or how I wasn't willing to do this or that, etc. But I guess that just comes with the territory.
February 1, 2007
Jobs are Charity?
Posted by Truth
After blogging for close to a year and a half I have seen many comments made by IBOs and those who support Quixtar and the motivational organizations. Some comments make very valid points, some are just downright funny, and some are just plain sad. I would like to draw your attention to perhaps the saddest comment I have seen to date. Brad, who is known to the members of the Quixtar Blog Forums made the following comment while starting a thread over at Insider's Forums.
There are always the few that make great sacrifices in laying a path for those to follow. You can see that in Rich and Jay, in many of the leaders in this business, as well as leaders in every business. I am always quick to point out that jobs aren't all bad, but you must be honest about them: they are positions which you are given, almost like charity, that were put in place by the blood, sweat and tears of that entreprenuer who blazed a trail that many of the people working for the company would never be able to complete, or even attempt!
Now, first I would like to point out that this is not a sad comment because an IBO spelled entrepreneur wrong, that's just funny. The truly sad part of this comment is the mentality that jobs are like charity. Now I know there are jobs out there where it doesn't matter who fills the slot as long as it is a warm body that will work for 8 hours a day. But, there is also something called a career. One who focuses on, and properly manages their career can see very rewarding results. After leaving Quixtar and getting focused back on my own career I have seen some very rewarding results.
Now, I will concede without the entrepreneur there would be no company with jobs for employees, but what is clearly missed here is that without employees the entrepreneur is nothing more then a man with an idea that will never be larger then him/herself. Charity is defined as "generosity and helpfulness especially toward the needy or suffering". The problem with calling a job charity is that the business owner is in fact the one in need and is receiving the most help. I don't know too many business owners who hire people and pay them even though they don't need their help.
Every business that became big needed their employees to accomplish what they did. Without employees Microsoft would still be two guys writing code and trying to sell it. Without employees Michael Dell would still be selling computers out of a room in his house, and without employees you would never know who Donald Trump is. I could go on all day with examples and even point out some businesses that never got on the map until the right CEO (an employee) guided the business to great heights, but I think you get the picture.
So if you are truly honest about jobs, they are a vital part of any business. Truly successful business owners know this, and see their employees as assets and not charity cases. To me it is sad to see an IBO take such a view of people who are the lifeblood to many successful businesses. It also gives me cause to implore those of you who are researching this business to critically examine the things you are told by IBOs, and if you are current IBO to critically examine what you are told by your upline. This comment clearly shows that there are some IBOs who seem to miss, or ignore very important concepts of business.
January 25, 2007
Tax Time again
Posted by Truth
Yes it is that time of year again and everyone I am sure is excited to do their taxes. The wonderful task of figuring out how much you are going to get or how much you are going to give is always enough to put a smile on your face.
I remember doing taxes while I was in Quixtar and the excitement that many IBOs would have about all the deductions they were going to take and how that was going to amount to a big payday for them. My wife and I however were never excited about this. Now don't get me wrong deductions are always nice in taxes, but having a big payday pretty much meant our business had a bad year. Bad year meaning we most likely spent much more then we made.
This is an area every IBO needs to deal with and they should do so with great care. The IRS has many rules and restrictions on the deductions many IBOs take and even has some rules about the difference between a hobby and a business, and yes some IBOs qualify under the hobby. I think (actually more like hope) everyone understands the serious potential consequences of taking deductions you were not allowed and later being audited.
My suggestion is to not take any advice from your upline on this one unless they are certified when it comes to taxes. I would recommend either studying for yourself the rules on the deductions you plan on taking, or solicit the help of a tax professional who can assist you. Hopefully you kept good records for your planned deductions.
I am no tax professional by any stretch of the imagination but I did a podcast last year on this subject and passed on some of the information I learned after doing my own research. You can listen to that below to get an idea of some of the things you may want to watch for this year when doing your taxes.
Good luck everyone and may your tax liability be as small as you can make it.
January 22, 2007
MLM Documentary: "The Downline"
Posted by Truth
As far as I know never before has a documentary been done on the MLM industry. Well until now that is. Eric Martinis is the director/producer of a new documentary titled "The Downline". In this documentary Eric follows four distributors for a fairly new MLM called Agel. This documentary will make it's premiere at the Park City Film Music Festival on January 25th. Recently, I had the chance to talk with Eric about his documentary and MLM in general. You can listen to that interview below.
As of right now there is no way to purchase a copy of this documentary but Eric has said they are looking into multiple options of distribution. For updates you can visit the MySpace page for the movie
Here is the trailer clip that was posted on YouTube:
December 26, 2006
New Quixtar Discussion Forum
Posted by Truth
For quite some time now the Qblog Forum has been the only forum of it's kind for discussion about Quixtar and all the other aspects that comes with that subject. Well this post's purpose is to annouce that the Qblog Forum now has company. As the owner of the Quixtar Inside Out blog I have created a new forum for discussion on the topic of Quixtar.
Why a new forum?
Well first of all I want to make it clear that this forum was not set-up to be a replacement or a competing forum with the Qblog Forum. Matter of fact I talked with Eric quite a bit before I even got the forum installed and he was the one who recommended the forum software I am using. However, with another forum comes more discussion on this topic and more discussion only leads to more information available about Quixtar and the motivational organizations.
Why announce it on Quixtar Blog?
Simple! Quixtar Blog draws more traffic then any other site with information about the Quixtar opportunity. Making an announcement here ensures that the word will get out much quicker. A quick thanks to Eric for letting me post this announcement.
Forum Differences
This forum is not a clone of the Qblog forums and has quite a few differences. First of all the software used for the forum is different and the discussion boards in the forum are different. There is also a debate hall set up for two members to request their own thread for debate where only those two members will be able to post, and a thread set up on another board for other members to comment on the debate.
Another feature is the ability to embed streaming audio and video into your posts, including Google and YouTube videos. Attachments are allowed in posts, and every board has it's own RSS feed so you can keep track of new posts from your favorite RSS reader.
There is also one board dedicated to Quixtar Testimonials only. A good spot for people to publish their Quixtar story for others to read without having to start their own site or blog.
One thing that will remain the same however is that this community will belong to it's members. Whether you are a supporter or critic of Quixtar you are more then welcome to sign-up and participate in the discussions. So I invite you to go on over to the forums today and sign-up.
December 2, 2006
It's the little things
Posted by Truth
OK, so this post is going to be pretty much way off-topic. I usually reserve these kinds of posts for my blog where I feel much more comfortable going in any direction I want seeing as how I pay the bills. But I figure I will go with this anyway and if Qblog doesn't want it here he can take it down, ban me from blogging, and write me a nasty e-mail telling me about the bodily harm he is going to inflict upon me for cluttering up his blog with such nonsense......OK, maybe that is getting a bit carried away considering I know Qblog and I don't think he would go quite that far. At any rate let's get on with this off-topic post.
Some of you may know that I am from the great state of Nebraska and therefore I am a HUGE Nebraska football fan. Well if you follow college football you may know that my Huskers will be playing for their conference championship tommorow against our old-time rival Oklahoma Sooners. I have been waiting with great anticipation for this game all week.
Today, I went to one of my favorite sites for Husker football huskerpedia.com. A great site to find articles and information about Husker sports. Anyway the top linked article was to the JournalStar in Lincoln and was titled "Brothers in arms, rivals in red" talking about the Husker and Sooner fans who are currently in Iraq that will be watching the game together. Reading that article really gave me an appreciation for what I have.
I served six years in the Army and had my share of deployments on various exercises. I never served in a combat zone with bullets flying or having to be concerned about every pile of dirt on the road being a potential bomb, but I know that feeling of missing home all too well. I also know how it's the little things about home that you think about the most.
Think about what it is everyday about home that you may take for granted. I am not trying to condemn anyone we all take things for granted from time to time. But, just for a moment think about those little things, or little moments that makes home home. Now think about being away from it with only your memories to hang on to.
That is pretty much how the soldier's feel when they think of home. It is the little memories that keep them going and if only for a second it brings them peace and joy. It is those little things that they long to get back to. It is those little things that they long to be a part of once again.
So whatever you are doing this weekend whether it be watching football on TV, going somewhere with your family, or even just kicking back in your favorite chair to read a book in peace and quiet. Give a thought to those brave men and women miles and miles away who at that very moment would love to be doing exactly what you are doing at that very moment, and remember how sacred all those little things really are.
November 11, 2006
Veteran's Day
Posted by Truth
As a veteran this day certainly holds meaning for me, however it should hold meaning for everyone. It should hold a meaning of thanks and gratitude to those who served and those who died fighting for freedom. Gratitude to those who served and to those who died fighting for your right to speak out, your right to dissent, your right to pursue your own passion and pursue your own happiness. Whether you agree with the wars these soldiers fought in is irrelevant. Soldiers do not make distinctions about what war they get to fight and which ones they don't. They volunteer to fight when their country calls them to it.
When you see a veteran say thanks. Thanks that you are free to dissent and express how you feel. Thanks that you are free to make your own path in life, and thanks that for more then 230 years brave men and women have been serving, fighting, and dying to keep you and your family free from tyranny. If you are a veteran I say thank you to you and to all of those who have gone before us.
October 31, 2006
Alticor Is Hiring
Posted by David Robison
The Michigan Governor's race has brought up the issue of Alticor laying off hundreds of jobs, while Dick DeVos was at the helm.
But, don't let that deceive you into thinking that Alticor is all staffed-up. Openings are plentiful, if you meet the qualifications for the job; from Human Resources to operating a skid loader. The jobs aren't just located in Ada, either. You may have the chance to work for Alticor in your very own state, or even abroad.
Here's one example:
Job title Legislative Affairs Specialist
Positions Available 1
Department Washington D.C. Office
Company Alticor - 800
Location/Worksite Washington DC
Type of employment Full time
Shift 1
Job description
Provides support to Alticor's Washington office, within the Legal Division, by performing complex secretarial and administrative tasks under minimal supervision and basic legislative and political research, document preparation and coordination and/or administration of complex matters under close to moderate supervision. This includes drafting of documents and correspondence, direct communication with Congressional Staffers, administration officials and others that interact with the Washington Office.
Minimum Education/Experience Requirements
Associate’s degree and 2-3 years experience on a Congressional staff or in an office dealing with Congress.
Other Requirements:
Computer and office equipment skills. Strong communication skills. Ability to work well with a variety of personnel. Knowledge of legislative terminology and procedures as well as office procedures. Some basic legislative research and writing skills, general business knowledge, basic knowledge of Congressional procedure and regulatory rule making.
Preferences
Bachelor’s degree in political science, economics or other public-policy related area plus 3-5 years of experience in a professional environment. Experience on a Congressional staff is highly desired.
I thought it would be beneficial to Alticor, and to loyal Quixtar Blog readers looking for a job to show you what's available. Dust off those resumes'.
August 16, 2006
30 Days
Posted by Truth
Do you remember Super Size Me? You know that documentary done by Morgan Spurlock where he ate nothing but McDonald's food for 30 days? Anyway, in case some of you don't know a year ago FX networks aired the first series of documentaries simply titled "30 Days", of course done by Morgan Spurlock. Well recently season two has been broadcasting, and as usual it is very interesting to watch.
The whole idea is to take two people from different points of view and put them together. For instance, on season two we have so far seen a "Minuteman" live with a family of illegals, an Atheist live with Christians, and a programmer who lost his job to outsourcing live and work in India. On a side note this programmer reminded me of Eric Janssen. Not in looks or anything like that, more because of his inquisitive nature and the way he carried on discussions.
So I started thinking, (I know scary concept) what about pairing up a Quixtar IBO, and a critic for 30 days? We could have a critic go live with an IBO for 30 days in which the critic would have to attend all meetings with the IBO, and basically participate right along side the IBO. Of course it would be much more interesting if the IBO was "sold on the system" (Sorry Dave, no offense but since you have been dubbed "the critic's choice" I don't know how interesting it would be).
Of course on the flip side we could have a hardcore system IBO go live with a critic for 30 days in which the IBO would have to actively participate with the critic on producing content for their blog or site, and again generally participate right along side the critic. Can you picture an IBO crashing meetings with Perceptive?
In all seriousness though, what do you think would come from such a pairing? Could the critic see anything new or different about this business that would get them behind it? Could the IBO have their eyes opened to see why such criticism exists? One interesting point my wife brought up is that most critics have been IBOs, but most IBOs have never walked in the shoes of a critic. Very true point, but I think with all the different systems and groups there is still some new things for the critic to see, not to mention there are still some critics who have not been IBOs.
So what pairings would you like to see? I thought of a few:
Scott Larsen and Jody Victor (Jody Victor helping Scott with amquix.info), Imran and Brad (Imran going with Brad to meetings, and helping show the plan), Perceptive and Michael (Michael going with perceptive to crash Quixtar meetings)
Tex and MasterGunner99 (scratch that, too many hospital visits could occur for Tex).
And of course my personal favorite... Insider and Qblog (Just think of the possibilities).
August 4, 2006
Moving on...
Posted by Xanadustc
I would like to announce my retirement from the great debate. When I first set out to do this work, I was not certain if it was something that I would be doing long term, or short term. Like all things, I took it to the Lord in prayer. It was actually something that I prayed about for over six months. I was pretty sure in March that I was going to stop, so I selected the one year anniversary of the founding of the Standing Order Tape site as the appropriate closing day.
I wish to extend a special thanks to Qblog for the privilege of writing for QuixtarBlog. I certainly never sought out to do such a thing, but I was granted the opportunity anyway. It was a great privilege to serve with Qblog, Drew, and Preston.
As successful as I have been in this debate, I have been equally successful in other areas as well. I have over 40 kids that I have mentored in some way. Over half of those are very regular. I lead kids in Sunday schools, camps, clubs, as well as a few other things. I am also in the process of completing a doctorate degree which adds time and stress constraints. Further, I am building an online educational resource website around my hobby which leads me the offers to perform demonstrations for schools. With all these commitments, I need to cut some things out, and this debate is one of the things that I wish to end.
I would like to recap now with a brief accounting my life since I saw this thing. It was July 2000 when I first saw Quixtar. I first became a member, then an IBO. Since early on in my involvement, there were two major negative impacts on me. The first was my grades in college dropped drastically. To give you an idea, it was that single semester that caused me to drop from Summa sum lauda to Magna cum lauda. My interest in college work stopped almost instantly. This was a very bad thing. The next thing that happened is that I started to accumulate debt. I was totally against credit card use prior to Quixtar, but afterwards, it was easier and easier to use a credit card because of the fact that material things were seen as being so important. There were other negative consequences to me but those are the two that are the deepest seeded and they are the ones that still get in my way today. I have also noticed that with the sole exception of a small period at the end of 2004, ever since I have seen Quixtar in 2000, it has dominated a large chunk of my life, both as a participant, and a critic. I wish to recoup that lost time in my days, weeks, and months.
I am pleased to report that my credit cards are paid off, but I still have over $25,000 of other debt due to my involvement in this business.
Should you wish to keep up with me, I will be devoting a little of the time spent on this site to my new ministry site, religious debates Forum, and blog called Our Walk in Christ. I will also continue to check my email should you with to contact me: xanadustc@hotmail.com.
I have a little bit more detail on of my retirement on my post on Standing Order Tape today.
With this, I say farewell, it has been fun. Good luck in your endeavors,
Over and Out,
Xanadustc
July 1, 2006
Will You Comment to the FTC?
Posted by Truth
Recently the FTC has made a proposal to make some rule changes that will require more disclosure from MLM companies to their prospects before they sign up. Being one who started blogging to give others the full disclosure I never got, naturally I was quite pleased when I heard this.
At this stage the FTC is taking comments or as they would say it:
The Commission invites interested parties to comment on a proposed Business Opportunity Rule which would prohibit business opportunity sellers from failing to furnish prospective purchasers with material information needed to combat fraud and which would prohibit other acts or practices that are unfair or deception within the meaning of Section 5 of the Federal Trade Commission Act.
Scott Larsen has put up a page on his website detailing some of the provisions that are contained within the new rule proposal. Larsen has also put on that page some tips on what to write to the FTC about. Consider them if you like or you can just tell the FTC what you think of the new rule and whether you believe it is a good idea or not.
So go on over to the FTC webpage and make your comments then let us know whether you think the FTC will implement this rule, and tell us if you are for or against this new proposal and why?
June 10, 2006
Gnarls Barkley - Enjoy
Posted by QBlog
Absolutely nothing to do with Quixtar but I just have to share this video.
June 6, 2006
Conversations with the Critics - Rara
Posted by Xanadustc
I had a chance to meet with a new critic on the scene: Rara. She was in BWW under Kanti Gala for about a year and a half. From the very beginning she was a little skeptical, but signed up with her sponsor, who was her boyfriend, to support him in the business. I did notice a few similarities within our experience in BWW as well as some differences.
Differences
While we were both in BWW, there was a removal of a few of the teachings between our teams. This is important to note so that we do not clump all experiences into one mold. On the other hand, there seem to be critical abuses in many of the systems, so to play the "My system does it right" card is not necessarily the correct approach either!
One critical difference was the relationship of the crossline in our teams. In my team, crossline friends were normal and even accepted. Some of my best friends in the business have been crossline, and that trend held even for the leaders on the team, including two Emeralds who were friends and crossline with each other. Rara says that on her team you were not permitted to associate with crossline unless your upline was present. To explain: Even in our group, we were not supposed to discuss our businesses with crossline because they were not our counselors. On Rara's team, they did not allow such interaction at all, because they figured that since you both have the business in common it was too easy for the conversation to move to business.
Another difference that I noticed was in how questions were answered. I got the impression that my team was a lot gentler with questions. We would try our best to answer questions that people had. Rara reported that questions were often deflected. This does seem to line up with some of Kumar's reported teachings -- that you don't answer questions directly, but appeal to the questioner's emotions and STP some more because it doesn't really matter.
Products
Rara and I talked in detail about the products. As I have often reported, everything I bought was much more expensive from Quixtar, and the quality was nothing to write home about. Rara did tell me that the jewelry line from the Personal Accents Catalog was very well-priced, especially since it included shipping. The perfumes were also nicely priced. These were the only two products she was comfortable promoting, because she felt they actually were a good deal. Overall, we both agreed that there really are no products that we would consider using now that we are not involved in the business, mostly because the prices are high, the shipping cost adds even more to the price and you have to wait too long for your order. Also, the overall quality of the products is nothing special.
We also talked about Artistry for a bit. I liked the Artistry skin care systems. I switched to Tolsom after that line came out, but I found the quality to be terrible and the price absolutely outrageous, so I switched back to Artistry before quitting the business. Regarding the price of Tolsom, I honestly think it is a test to see how committed people are to buying overpriced products. In a personal test, I found Tolsom shaving gel to be less effective than Edge shaving gel. Where I shop, the price of Edge averages $2.50 for 8 oz while the Tolsom is $9.65 (IBO) or $12.45 (Retail) for 7 oz. Rara thought it was interesting to see how many skin care products the upline could convince the men in her group to buy. She commented on seeing her sponsor's bathroom full of skin care products, even though they're typically targeted at women.
Reasons for leaving
One of the differences between Rara and me is that while I was involved in the business I was not interested in maintaining any part of my old life. But Rara said, "I consciously tried to maintain my individuality while in the 'biz,' but I did wish I was 100% CORE." She also did 7 of the 9 core steps with varying consistency.
It is interesting to note that we both left Quixtar for the same reason: We were spending too much money and earning too little in return. I totally submitted to the system. I was plugged in, doing meetings, driving miles, contacting, listening to several tapes every day, reading many books per month and attending all the meetings I could (even though I was driving 300 + miles every month to attend them). Following the system and buying the products required to maintain my 150-300PV per month was costing around $400-$600 a month. I flat ran out of money. I finally left the system when I could not afford to participate any more due to having a car payment.
Rara, on the other hand, was never as committed to the system as I was. She never bought any books, only borrowed them. She was on Standing Order Tape for a period of time and even bought extra tapes. She tried to listen to a tape every day, but found it difficult because she really did not like them.
She got to the point where she did not have enough money for herself, and she refused to go further in debt for Quixtar. At this point, Rara was going to slow down on buying and focus on finishing school. Then she would pick up the business again when she had a better job with more disposable income. This is when she found out about the tool profits. She says, "When I confronted my upline about the tool profits, I think my upline's response was more like, 'Well, we didn't tell you because you didn't ask,' making this somehow my fault." This was her final convincer that Quixtar is not the greatest opportunity in the world.
May 28, 2006
This DeVos Is Cool
Posted by QBlog
The Grand Rapids Press is reporting about the newest business venture from Rick DeVos, son of gubernatorial candidate Dick DeVos and grandson of Amway co-founder Rich DeVos. The business is called Spout and it's not multi-level marketing.
About Spout
Spout is a kind of Web 2.0 social networking site focused on promoting and distributing films.
"As the site develops, Spout will organically build a foundation for its ultimate goal: creating a grassroots alternative to Hollywood's promotion and distribution model and allowing the work of more filmmakers to reach their audiences," the company's launch materials said.
The article describes DeVos as a 24-year-old who "gets" what online business is all about. He's a "Mac guy," dresses in dot-com fashions and launched the site at the uber-trendy South by Southwest Film Festival. Maybe Quixtar should hire him as a Web advisor?
For the record, he said, the company is separate from Alticor and its online unit, Quixtar, which are owned by the families of Rich DeVos and the late Jay Van Andel.
"Obviously, that's my family's business," Rick DeVos said. "There are similarities in that they are both about the power of people and relationships and networks, but there's none of their technology and nothing else that comes from Quixtar."
Joining and Connecting
The Spout registration process was very simple (unlike the Quixtar registration process) and the user interface is fairly intuitive. However, I was surprised to learn that there's no way to upload movies, clips or even trailers. I thought that with the goal of marketing and distributing movies it would have some way to actually watch video. But it turns out that the site is really just a way for film buffs to connect, learn about movies and then buy the DVDs.
I like Spout though I'm not sure it's something I'd regularly use. It includes community building tools and a blog feature which is kinda cool. Check it out for yourself and let me know what you think.
May 27, 2006
Touretzky Speaks on Scientology
Posted by QBlog
One of the most popular destinations for Quixtar information seekers is Dave Touretzky's "Amway/Alticor/Quixtar Sucks!" website. Touretzky is a world-famous research professor at Carnegie Mellon University and an avid Free Speech proponent who's had some personal clashes with Quixtar.
However, his real passion is exposing the "vengeful religious cult" known as the Church of Scientology. I found an interesting video interview of Touretzky on YouTube from a recent episode of Keith Olberman's show on MSNBC.
"Dave Touretzky appears on Countdown with Keith Olbermann to discuss Tom Cruise, Silent Birth and Scientology."
May 20, 2006
Domain Names for Sale
Posted by Truth
Found a site the other night at work that would give you the value of your domain name if you wanted to sell it. Thought I would have some fun and run a few familiar ones through and see what I came up with:
- quixtarblog.com - $4,538.00
- webraw.com/quixtar - $17,174.00
- webraw.com/quixtar/forum - $10,334.00 (Guess it is safe to assume the forum is being used)
- amquix.info - $65,522.00
- quixtar.com - $345,600.00
- thisbiznow.com - $3,038.00
- quixtarinsideout.com - $2,282.00
- quixtardemons.blogspot.com - $1,838.00
- bwwsot.blogspot.com - $10,334.00 (WOW! Go Tom!)
- And finally QRUSH - $1,634.00 ( I think he should sell now and cut his losses)
I know there are more sites that we could do, but I don't want this to be a mile long, so do your own and post them in the comments.
March 11, 2006
Odd Isn't It?
Posted by QBlog
How did Amway get its name? According to the Amway website, the name is short for "American Way." Today this "American Way" multilevel marketing business provides an opportunity for people to sell exclusive products and recruit others to do the same.
What is this "American Way" opportunity called in America? Quixtar.
Isn't it odd that the business opportunity has a different name within the namesake country? Wonder why that is?
February 22, 2006
HA HA
Posted by QBlog
The Qrush Blog appears to be no more.
To quote Nelson from The Simpsons, "Ha ha!"
UPDATE: Well the site is back. I swear it was down while I was checking it at lunch. Still a pretty lame site. I've been hearing rumors Qrush is Rich Florence, Billy Florence's son. Reader feedback on the AmQuix site describes Rich Florence as a "high school dropout."
Rich is a high school dropout who's never worked anywhere but for his father. He's achieved the Gold Producer level but regularly does meetings such as opportunity meetings, net-sems and mini rallies. Normally a person at that level is hardly allowed on a stage.
I have no way to verify the veracity of those claims but it would explain the seeming chummy connection between Qrush and Billy Florence.
UPDATE II: Billy Florence responded to an email I sent him asking for the identity of those responsible for the Qrush blog. Here's what I sent:
Hi Billy,
It's come to my attention that your son, Rich Florence, may be responsible for the Qrush blog. Would you either confirm or deny this? The latest attacks on the blog are especially troubling and it is common knowledge that someone (possibly you or the IBOAI) funded advertising for the blog when it first began. If your son is not responsible for the blog, do you know who is behind it? Any insight on this matter would be most appreciated.
Thanks,
Eric
Here's his response which came surrounded by quotes:
"I have no idea whatsoever who runs or finances the Qrush blog and would appreciate anything you can do to ensure that neither my name nor my son's is falsely linked with the site , to include removing any such information you currently have on your site ."
Thanks,
Billy Florence
Let the record show that Billy Florence denies any involvement with the Qrush blog whatsoever.
February 17, 2006
Brilliant
Posted by QBlog
Jerry Giebeig is the blogger and Monavie distributor who recently sent me a free sample of Monavie Active Juice. He's also a genius.
Ok, maybe genius is overstating things just a bit but I was incredibly impressed to learn that he's the creative force behind the hilarious and quirky "Carl Loves Mustard" podcast (iTunes link). What does a "variety show hosted by 'Carl Mustard'" have to do with MLM or Monavie? Absolutely nothing and that's why it's so brilliant.
Giebeig has crafted a truly entertaining audio program created with a unique idea — to befriend folks in Voice Over IP "chat rooms" and make them laugh. That's it.
Network marketers should take note. By creating a podcast with real entertainment value, Giebeig is offering something most of his competition can't offer — a laugh. Why is that important? Because he's moving outside of the narrow, MLM-minded circles. He's not interfacing with people who are searching for MLM or running from MLM. He's in touch with people who want to have fun.
Think about it. Where do most network marketers target their online recruitment efforts? Buying Google ads with keywords like "Quixtar" and "Business Opportunity" or hanging out in Rich Dad forums or running blogs with titles like "MLM Today."
The general strategy (and statistically it's a good one) is to market the MLM business to people familiar with the industry or who are searching for more information about MLM. But that strategy misses the kid addicted to MMORPGs or the mom who loves funny podcasts.
Don't Misunderstand
Please don't misunderstand what I'm saying. The genius isn't concocting a funny podcast to get new recruits. That's not what's happening here and if it were, it would fall on its face. What I'm saying is that Network Marketers should break out of their MLM mindset and make online contributions that have value wholly unrelated to their business or industry.
And what happens if Carl Loves Mustard becomes the next Internet Meme? Well, then Giebeig would have a runaway hit on his hands. Do you see the value in that?
» Subscribe to Carl Loves Mustard in iTunes
February 4, 2006
Super Bowl Eve
Posted by QBlog
The Big Game is tomorrow. It's one of my favorite events of the year though lately I've been spending it at home with my family instead of attending the traditional "pah-tay." I would like to see the Steeler's win but have this gnawing suspicion that their ride is over and it's the Seahawks time. I don't bet and don't really care who wins but if I had to pick a dog in this fight, I'd pick the Seahawks. Who are you pulling for?
January 30, 2006
Can It Get Any Larger?
Posted by QBlog
This is too funny to keep to myself.
Yesterday Ty Tribble published something called the "QBlog Diamond Rally" on his MLM Blog. The post has received some modifications and edits but it originally read this way:
Have you heard the QBlog Diamond Rally?
Like most rallies, it's not big on the details of how to build a downline of Anti-MLM Bloggers and Forum Posters, but it is an interesting listen.
I wonder when the book will come out.
Since I've never been to a Diamond Rally (though I did hear Dexter Yager speak at a weekend seminar once) I was a little perplexed about what Tribble meant by his comments.
I asked my friend, and former Quixtar IBO, Shawn Cannon if he could shed any light on the post. He explained that Diamond Rallies generally consist of a Diamond standing up on stage and talking about himself without giving any real business information. A sort of egotistical brag-fest.
Ah ha! Now I think I understand.
The Podcast
The link in Tribble's post was to my November 7, 2006, QBlog Radio podcast titled "All About QBlog." The podcast was a bit of a departure from my usual format (though that format is always evolving) and my goal was to simply share some things about myself so people could get to know me better. It's not a particularly great podcast but it is what it is.
The link on the MLM Blog was directly to the mp3 file. It was linked without any real context and without linking to the source blog (QBlog Radio). In fact, unobservant listeners might believe that the file was being served off of Tribble's site and eating his bandwidth instead of mine.
All of which is fine. I don't believe there's anything wrong with "hot linking" a publicly available audio file without proper context. That's Tribble's prerogative. However, I'm also free to have a little fun and modify those "hot linked" files any time I choose.
And that's exactly what I did.
The Switcheroo
Last night I fired up my PowerBook and recorded a nine minute audio clip (mp3 - 2.2 MB) discussing Ty Tribble, Oasis LifeSciences, Al Keranen, Operation Cure.All and blogging motivations.
I uploaded the audio file to my QBlog Radio server and gave it the exact same file name as the "All About QBlog" mp3 file. Of course I didn't want to lose the original podcast so I renamed that file as well and updated the related links on the QBlog Radio website (including the RSS feed). The hilarious result was that the file Tribble linked to was no longer "All About Me" but nine minutes of me discussing his new MLM business, Oasis LifeSciences.
No Comprende
Funny stuff right? Apparently Tribble didn't see the humor. Here's what he had to say:
Update: After taking the time to record a podcast solely about himself, apparently "QBlog" aka Eric Janssen does not want his QBlog Diamond Rally Podcast to be listened to. Sometime in the last 12 hours, he changed the recording and monkeyed with the link. I fixed the link, but this seems odd to me that someone who has "cornered the truth" on MLM would do such a thing.
Actually, I don't care who listens to the podcast since it's always been on my servers. If I didn't want anyone to hear it, I would have deleted it entirely. All I did was change the file name. Visiting my QBlog Radio website would have provided listeners with the complete podcast.
But there wasn't a link to QBlog Radio on the MLM Blog, not until the second update:
2nd Update: The link has been changed again. What is Eric hiding? I wonder if this deception has to do with the 2nd coming of Qrush? Is Qrush really QBlog? Was QBlog behind the plot to get Martha Stewart to endorse Malt Liquour and sell it through the MLM Model? Anyways, I linked his site this time. If he wants to change the link again, he will have to make a change to his QBlog Radio Blog.
Mission Accomplished
Well, I won't be changing the links on QBlog Radio. I have no reason to do so. If people want to listen to the podcast they can visit my site and at least have the opportunity to understand its proper context. And maybe, just maybe, we've all learned a valuable lesson today.
January 28, 2006
Reviewing Monavie Active Juice
Posted by QBlog
A
few weeks ago Jerry Giebeig, a blogger
and Monavie distributor, sent me a free
sample of Monavie Active
Juice. I wasn't interested in joining his Multi-Level Marketing business
but Giebeig piqued my curiosity about its flagship product by making some bold
claims during one of our Gizmo conversations.
"This product contains all the nutrition you need to survive," said Jerry.
"No way," I replied in shocked amazement. "I have to try this stuff."
So, Giebeig rushed a bottle of Monavie Active Juice to my door and I opened the box with eager anticipation.
"Is
that wine?" my wife asked as I pulled out the bottle.
"Nope, this is Monavie! It's fruit juice."
I read the product label to my wife and she was impressed that a portion of the profits help preserve the Amazon rainforest. She's got a special place in her heart for rainforests.
How Did It Taste?
One thing that concerned me about the Monavie Active Juice was that the recommended
serving was one to two ounces, taken twice a day. I'm not a "vitamin guy"
and didn't like the idea of measuring out a "dosage" of fruit juice
every morning and evening and so I put the Monavie in the fridge with the intention
of getting back to it when I was in that "vitamin" state of mind.
A
couple of days later I was talking to Giebeig and he asked me how I liked the
juice.
"I haven't tried it yet," I replied.
He asked why.
"I just don't feel like measuring out my fruit juice."
"That's a recommendation," Giebeig said. "You can drink as much as you want."
What a relief. The next day I opened the bottle and drank a glass. It wasn't bad. It was fruity with a hint of pepper. The taste reminded me of raspberries. It was thick, almost V8 thick but without the tomatoes. It's a lot like drinking Looza Nectar.
The smell was very strong and not exactly pleasant. It's possible that the smell negatively impacted my taste buds a bit. My overall impression was positive but I think it would take some time for me to acquire a taste for Monavie Active Juice. And I could see that happening if it weren't so expensive.
How Much Does It Cost?
Giebeig explained that the juice retails
for $45 a bottle and that the wholesale price is as low as $21. It's a 750 ML
bottle and many good wines costs less for the same quantity.
"But the fruits are exotic and the profits help the rainforest," my wife explained.
"Honey, it's $45 per bottle of JUICE," I protested. "I don't care if it cures cancer. That's a lot of money for fruit juice."
"Doesn't it make you feel better?" she asked.
Does It Work?
Ah,
does Monavie Active Juice work? I'll cut to the chase — no. Not for me
anyway. True, I only drank one bottle and didn't take the recommended servings
but I didn't feel any different after drinking the juice. Giebeig tried to explain
all the scientific research and data supporting the health benefits of Monavie
but I stopped him short.
"Jerry, I don't want to know all that stuff," I said. "If it works, I'll feel it no matter what the scientists say. And I don't want to be psychologically influenced by any marketing material and develop some placebo effect."
And I didn't feel anything. I don't really have anything bad to say about Monavie Active Juice but it's just not something I can see myself spending money on with one exception — if it were cheaper. If I could snag a bottle for $7 or so I might become a Monavie fan. I wouldn't join the MLM but I could see myself drinking it regularly after I got used to the taste.
What Is Monavie?
I'm not exactly sure what Monavie is but I'll tell you what I know. It's an
MLM that has very few products (compared to Quixtar) and has recently been joined
by former Amway/Quixtar Diamonds Brig
Hart and Bruce Anderson, both of whom have recently been involved in legal disputes with Quixtar.
Is Monavie better or worse than any other MLM business? I have no idea. Monavie distributors like Giebeig certainly believe it's better but what MLM distributor doesn't believe that their latest endeavor is the "greatest opportunity in the world?"
On The Radio
If you'd like to hear my audio review of Monavie Active Juice check out the
January 13, 2006 podcast from
QBlog Radio.
January 17, 2006
Domino's And DeVos
Posted by QBlog
The AP reports that the CEO of Domino's Pizza will head Dick DeVos' gubernatorial campaign.
Domino's Pizza Inc. CEO David Brandon will head Republican Dick DeVos' campaign to unseat Democratic Gov. Jennifer Granholm.
Brandon, who lives in Ann Arbor and serves on several nonprofit boards in the Detroit area - including Detroit Renaissance and The Parade Company, which produces Detroit's annual Thanksgiving Day parade - said he wants to help the Kent County businessman improve his ties to the vote-heavy region.
Here's what the blogs are saying:
- Want Some Pizza With That Pyramid?
- MLM Today
- My Michigan Connection
- Amway Nation
- Domino Pizza/DeVos Alliance
December 26, 2005
IBOAI Yanks OCS Page
Posted by QBlog
Looks as if the IBOAI website has finally removed its page claiming that Quixtar is an Order Consolidation Site. The original page is available for now as a Google cache. A search for "OCS" on the IBOAI website yields no results.
However, the Spanish language version is still live and makes the same claim, that Quixtar is simply an OCS (English translation).
UPDATE: Well this was a wasted post. Turns out nobody yanked anything. What happened is that the IBOAI changed the way it names its pages. Instead of using underscores (_) it now uses hyphens (-) and so the link changed.
Hell, Quixtar still is an OCS according to the IBOAI. Thanks David Robison for pointing out that nothing's changed.
Ugh
Posted by QBlog
So much for the triumphant return of Blogging 101. I spent most of Christmas day hugging the toilet, depositing copious chunks of vomit into the porcelain throne. Instead of eating Christmas ham and pumpkin pie I drank orange kool-aid and slept.
Anyway, I'm not vomiting now so things are heading back to normal.
December 25, 2005
Merry Christmas - 2005
Posted by QBlog
Happy Birthday Jesus!
December 15, 2005
Inside and Out Podcast
Posted by QBlog
There's a new podcaster out there talking about everybody's favorite MLM. The Quixtar Inside and Out blog featured its inaugural podcast today discussing the "truth about tool money."
Check it out and listen. It's only about 12 minutes long. Good stuff. I hope to hear more.
The Passport Question
Posted by QBlog
I was chatting with a former Passport Associate today about Bo Short's recent move to Oasis LifeSciences. He posed the following question:
How many people would have joined Passport if they knew that it would end like it did?
That's an excellent question.
How many people who signed up with Bo Short's Passport business would have done so with the knowledge that it would essentially fold after four years and move to Oasis LifeSciences? Would you?
December 11, 2005
Impersonation Game
Posted by QBlog
Rich Little is a comedian whose claim to fame is impersonating celebrities. His acts include impersonations of people like Peter Falk, Richard Nixon, Cary Grant and Dr. Phil. I've always been fascinated by people, like Little, who can skillfully mimic the voice and mannerisms of others.
Today I'd like to experiment just a bit and try an impersonation of my own, on this blog. You'll have to use your imagination since the impersonation will utilize text instead of voice and gestures. I'll do the impersonation and you try to guess who it is I'm trying to mimic.
Who Am I?
Man, Quixtar is awesome. I love it. You really need to join and experience this wonderful business. The products are superior and the opportunity is so exciting. Our team is one of the best in the business and our leadership will guide you to the type of success you desire.
Man, Passport is awesome. I love it. You really need to join and experience this wonderful business. The products are fabulous. It's so much better than Quixtar. All the problems and abuses present in Quixtar are absent in Passport. And the Passport leadership is so much better than Quixtar's leadership. It's run the way MLM businesses should be run.
Wow, Oasis LifeSciences is awesome. It's so much better than Passport and Quixtar. The products are superior to any product on the market. And the leadership is the best in the industry. This business will provide you with the opportunity to achieve the type of success you desire.
Enter your guesses of who I'm impersonating in the comments. Thanks for playing.
November 30, 2005
Don't Click
Posted by QBlog
I warned you.
Lovingly PhotoShopped from this link.
November 27, 2005
Amway "Lukewarm" About China's New Rules
Posted by QBlog
The Wall Street Journal reports that new direct sales rules recently passed in China are "eliciting a lukewarm reaction" from companies like Amway.
An unnamed Amway official complained that the "administrative intervention goes too far into the micro facet of business operations." Seriously, that's a quote but I'm thinking it was translated from Chinese. The article goes on to explain some of the reasons why Amway is complaining anonymously.
In addition, commission rates for a company's sales force will be capped at 30% of its total retail sales, a much lower rate than in other countries, where both individual and group performances are taken into consideration when payment is made.
The new rules also have strict disclosure requirements. Companies must provide the Ministry of Commerce and the State Administration for Industry and Commerce detailed information on their direct-sales staff, including their names, registration numbers, primary occupations, monthly income, tax records and what percentage of their total income is generated by direct sales.
In addition, companies will be required to disclose significant lawsuits and arbitration proceedings in which they have been involved, their corporate compensation structure, recruiting and training methods, and entitlements and obligations contained in sales contracts signed between the companies and their salespeople.
You know, China may be a communist country that regularly tramples on human rights but I think it has the right idea about regulating multi-level marketing. Isn't that ironic?
November 24, 2005
No More Pretending
Posted by QBlog
Quixtar recently modified its "70% Rule" to essentially remove the requirement for retail sales. Prior to the changes IBOs were required (though it was seldom enforced) to sell 70% of the products they purchased. However, the revised rule states that "products used for personal or family consumption or given out as samples are also considered as part of the sales volume."
Using products at home (self-consumption) is clearly not a retail sale but Quixtar now states that it is a retail sale. The lawBlawg has done a thorough analysis of the changes to rule 4.18 (IBOs only).
To sum up the changes Quixtar is basically saying that to earn money in the business you must sell products to customers — unless you don't want to sell products to customers in which case you may just use the products yourself. The "buy from yourself and teach others to do the same" philosophy is now clearly reflected in the Quixtar rules. That's refreshing because before the rule change the "buy from Me-Mart" mentality conflicted with the 70% rule. Now the message is consistent.
One downside to this rule change is that retail-minded IBOs like Fred Johnston don't have the 70% rule to back up their efforts. Now a new recruit has to carefully consider the options — do I work my tail off selling products to retail customers or do I sit in living rooms teaching others to just change their shopping habits. Which would you choose?
November 22, 2005
Randy Bancino Resigns?
Posted by QBlog
I just heard a rumor that Randy Bancino, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Quixtar, has resigned. That's about all I know as details have been sketchy.
I will add that his resignation comes on the heels of numerous firings at the Quixtar Corporation, mostly of low-level grunts and apparently one alleged member of the Web Reputation Task Force.
If you have more details, please post a comment.
UPDATE: David Ellyatt, Web Marketing Manager for Quixtar, confirms that Randy Bancino resigned yesterday. I've been told that Ellyatt worked closely with Bancino on Quixtar's Web Reputation Task Force.
November 4, 2005
Copyright Question
Posted by QBlog
You think the United A.B.L.E. Association got permission to republish all the news articles it hosts on its Dependence page? I am in the news business and we generally require written permission for republication. But maybe papers like the Orlando Sentinel, St. Petersburg Times, Fairfield Daily Republic and The Miami Herald don't mind.
Or maybe the Bennetts got permission? Yeah, that's probably it. They got permission.
But, I'm sure those newspapers wouldn't mind a friendly inquiry, just to check.
Bennetts in WWDB?
Posted by QBlog
I just came across a blog post titled "Help Out a Disabled Person." The author explains an encounter with a disabled Quixtar IBO in the World Wide Group.
Also, a posting by someone claiming to be disabled. They say they still want to work, and if you'd only go shop online at their website.
This sounds a lot like the Bennetts, who operate the (now changed) United A.B.L.E. Association. Are the Bennetts in WWDB? Maybe so, maybe not. And I wonder if this new "disabled approach" could be replacing the standard "curiosity approach?"
Anyway, the author of the Help Out a Disabled Person post is understandably concerned about how to handle the situation.
So the question of the day... if this person is being taken advantage of, do I have any sort of obligation to save them from themselves? I'm really torn... part of me wants to say "Stop! You're going to end up in real trouble!" But these people, once they've gotten in, they've usually been brainwashed to the point that they refuse to listen. Frustrating.
Frustrating indeed.
November 3, 2005
Sales Grow at Alticor
Posted by QBlog
The Detroit Free Press reports that Alticor sales have grown for the sixth year in a row.
Sales at Alticor Inc., the Ada-based owner of direct-selling giant Amway, rose for the sixth consecutive year.
Alticor, which ranks third among Michigan's privately held companies, said Wednesday that sales at its global operation rose to $6.4 billion in the fiscal year that ended Aug. 31. The 3.6% growth was considerably slower than the previous year, when sales grew a whopping $1.3 billion, or 26%, from 2003. Last year's growth was propelled by sales in the Chinese market.
Elsewhere...
Worth Noting
Posted by QBlog
United A.B.L.E. Association
It's worth pointing out that the United A.B.L.E. Association websites (werable.org, smartershoppernetwork.com & giftalbumchoices.com) have undergone significant changes since Monday's post about the organization.
Some of the changes I've noticed:
- giftalbumchoices.com is now gone, replaced with an email link (anyone have a screenshot?)
- Smarter Shopper Network is now password protected
- The About Us page has been edited to remove the following:
As a sustainable organization, there is no need to hold fundraising events, beg the community for money, or get government funding. This unique funding program provides a perpetual, residual funding stream for the organization while directly benefiting children and adults with disabilities, and their families.
- The John Sestina (an IBO) quote is gone from the How We Help page
- The following disclaimer is now missing from the Help Now page:
This is not a get-rich-quick, or a pyramid scheme. In fact, it's a business plan that has been approved by the government and is accessible to virtually anyone interested in operating an independent business. Thousands of individuals faced with a disability are already successfully using this business plan to improve their lives.
Please let me know if you find other changes that I've overlooked.
Emerald Passport
Also worth noting are the changes made to the Emerald Passport EPI site after I mentioned it last week. All references (text, audio and images) to Quixtar have been removed. Also, I should note that even thought the page title is "Emerald Passport - EPI," there's a disclaimer at the top of the pages saying that the site is not an official site of Emerald Passport INC.
This site is owned by EmeraldBusinessSystem.com, and Independent Distributor of Emerald Passport, Inc and this site is not an official site of Emerald Passport Inc.
So, I guess the site wasn't related to Quixtar after all.
Jody And The IBOAI
One site that hasn't changed is the IBOAI page claiming that Quixtar is simply an Order Consolidation Site. The blog that originally brought that page to my attention (quixtar-team.blogspot.com) is gone but the IBOAI page is still going strong.
That may explain why Jody Victor's MarkerMan site only contains one mention of the word "Quixtar" (according to Google) in a reference to Jay Van Andel's death. And maybe that explains why Jody Victor hates This Biz Now. This Biz Now makes it pretty clear that Quixtar is not just an Order Consolidation Site.
QBlog Comments
You're welcome Quixtar. I am glad to point out problems online and I am glad to see those problems corrected. We'll never know whether or not the site changes resulted from pressure by Quxitar but it's good to those changes nonetheless — online.
However, what is painfully obvious is that what happens online is merely a tiny reflection of what occurs out there in the "real world." Quixtar has the enormous task of policing what IBOs say in living rooms and hotel lobbies around the country. It's a challenge to be sure. But is Quixtar up to that task? Do they want to be? Or is Quixtar content to know that as long as IBOs misrepresent the business in private, undocumented settings, the FTC won't swoop in to clean house.
Only Quixtar can answer those questions. The rumor is that Jim Payne is a reformer, brought in to replace the ousted Ken McDonald and right a ship that the IBOAI has been sinking for the last six years. We'll see if Payne has the backbone and the power to get that ship back on course.
For now, I'll continue to point out what I find online and hope that it makes a difference, even a small one.