Shelley Rojas - Direct Selling News https://www.directsellingnews.com The News You Need. The Name You Trust. Fri, 02 Dec 2022 18:24:08 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.2 https://www.directsellingnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/DSN-favicon-150x150.png Shelley Rojas - Direct Selling News https://www.directsellingnews.com 32 32 DSU Fall 2022: Lessons for an Evolving channel https://www.directsellingnews.com/2022/12/02/dsu-fall-2022-lessons-for-an-evolving-channel/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=dsu-fall-2022-lessons-for-an-evolving-channel Fri, 02 Dec 2022 18:24:06 +0000 https://www.directsellingnews.com/?p=17756 Direct selling executives need insight and fresh ideas now more than ever before. In one of the most challenging years in direct selling history, leaders faced continued lockdowns in certain markets, changing consumer behaviors, a tense regulatory environment and lingering supply chain issues.

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Hundreds of direct selling executives gathered in person and virtually to share game-changing insight of a channel in a state of transition.
Stuart Johnson
STUART JOHNSON / CEO of Direct Selling News, Direct Selling Partners & NOW Tech

Direct selling executives need insight and fresh ideas now more than ever before. In one of the most challenging years in direct selling history, leaders faced continued lockdowns in certain markets, changing consumer behaviors, a tense regulatory environment and lingering supply chain issues.

To provide practical solutions, Direct Selling University enlisted more than 25 of the industry’s leading executives to share unique perspectives and new approaches regarding some of the most complex issues facing the channel today.

We kicked off DSU with the CEO Forum, one of our highest rated events, and had 75 executives in the room representing $43 billion in revenue,” said Stuart Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Direct Selling News, Direct Selling Partners and NOW Tech. “We talked about omnichannel strategies, fighting field fatigue (our industry’s version of quiet quitting), attracting the next generation, industry reputation and the rise of affiliate models in the marketplace.”

Johnson cast vision for attendees, calling them to move beyond customer-centric thinking to becoming customer-obsessed. Following his lead, speakers provided tangible ways to improve customer conversion rates, improve salesforce morale, upgrade training systems, drive revenue and create authentic connection with customers.

“DSU gives leaders the chance to open their minds to a bigger picture,” Johnson said. “This event exists to share knowledge, future trends and success stories that inspire, challenge beliefs and spark change. I’m confident that every executive left the event with at least one game-changing idea or initiative to take back to their teams.”

Cracking the Amazon Code:
the first-ever DSU breakout session on eCommerce strategies

Addressing Amazon

Amazon. The eCommerce goliath has been the elephant in the room for years, and for the first time, Direct Selling University tackled the challenge head-on. Without shying away from the complexities of the issue, DSU offered multiple opportunities for participants to listen and learn from experts about how to alter their approach to what is arguably the industry’s biggest competitor.

Blake Mallen, Author, President of Prüvit, delivered the most talked about speech of the event, as well as a break-out workshop session that drew more than 150 attendees, discussing his proven Amazon strategy.

“A lot of customers buying on Amazon assume they are buying from the company directly, and when they receive a damaged or expired product, they’ll either blow up the support team with their complaints or—worse—blast Amazon with negative reviews,” Mallen said. “This stuff can cause serious potential long-term damage to our brands. When you share the message that anyone can start today with the same opportunity to change their life, but when there are different prices for different people, it can erode the very heart of what our channel stands for.”

Continuing the event’s conversation about how to become customer-obsessed, Mallen explained the importance of setting an intentional Amazon game plan, telling attendees that winning the Amazon game begins with controlling their brand’s footprint on Amazon.

RUDY REVAK /
Founder and Chairman, Xyngular

“This is not the future—this is the present,” Mallen said. “Amazon is a key part of the customer journey today, which means this cannot be ignored. This is something we as a channel need to do not only for our companies—but for our communities—and make the shift our industry really needs.”

Rudy Revak, Founder and Chairman, Xyngular, reminded leaders of the importance of taking care of new distributors and helping the sales force stay persistent and positive.

SHELLEY ROJAS /
Chief Brand Officer, Direct Selling News

Shelley Rojas, Chief Brand Officer, Direct Selling News, and Heather Chastain, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Bridgehead Collective and Direct Selling News Strategic Advisor, announced a new social community platform for DSN Supporters, as well as a new entry-level of Support, the Advocate, that will enhance the user experience and open up becoming a part of Direct Selling News to many more companies.

Magnus Brännström /
President & CEO, Oriflame

Magnus Brännström, President & Chief Executive Officer, Oriflame, focused on the ways the pandemic impacted work trends and how Oriflame reorganized its brand experience structure to improve the product, customer, digital, social selling and employee culture experiences.

Lynne Coté, President and Chief Executive Officer, Princess House, and Laura Beitler, Chief Global Sales Officer, Rodan + Fields, in a conversation with Heather Chastain, discussed the importance of transparency in creating alignment between the home office and the field in the midst of change and challenges.

From left:
HEATHER CHASTAIN / Founder & CEO, Bridgehead Collective, Direct Selling News Strategic Advisor
Lynne Coté / President and Chief Executive Officer, Princess House
Laura Beitler / Chief Global Sales Officer, Rodan + Fields

Dan Macuga, Chief Communications and Marketing Officer, USANA, illustrated the power of their “Start Something” campaign and offered a how-to for companies wanting to create similar initiatives that drive customer engagement, loyalty and connection.

Amber Snow, Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Amway, shared how executives can make DE&I more than just a buzzword in their companies by facing the fact that people of color make up only 14 percent of direct selling representatives and persuaded leaders to make a commitment to listen, learn and act.

DAN MACUGA /
Chief Communications and Marketing Officer, USANA

Amanda Tress, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, FASTer Way to Fat Loss, shared the simplicity of her company’s one-tier micro-influencer marketing model, and why she believes it could be a powerful strategy for companies fearing FTC scrutiny and enhanced regulations.

Glenn Sanford, Founder, eXp Realty, Chief Executive Officer, eXp World Holdings and SUCCESS, in an interview with Stuart Johnson, discussed the strategy behind eXp Realty’s hypergrowth and why a focus on agent experience has built a collaborative culture that drives value.

Wayne Moorehead, Marketing and Branding Expert and Host of the Direct Approach Podcast, in an interview with Stuart Johnson, reflected on the hot topics and trends discussed during interviews with leaders from 30 different companies who represent $30 billion in revenue.

AMBER SNOW /
Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Amway

Russ Moorehead, Chief Marketing Officer, Nu Skin, exposed five myths direct selling companies often fall prey to, and why the latest shopping trends give direct-to-consumer companies a significant advantage.

Patrick Wright, Chief Executive Officer, AdvoCare, gave a behind-the-scenes look at the company’s 2019 FTC settlement and described how seeing limitations as opportunities has allowed AdvoCare to increase its customer conversion rate by 10x while better serving their affiliates.

AMANDA TRESS /
Founder & CEO, FASTer Way to Fat Loss

Jesse McKinney, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Red Aspen, shared a sneak peek into the company’s 2023 strategy, including four pillars—sustainability, technology initiatives, Tik Tok-style training videos and a new Gen Z-focused product category—all inspired by her experience at DSU Spring 2022.

Nick Martinez, Top Distributor, Prüvit, encouraged industry leaders to embrace distributors who are building influence instead of recruiting and why consistently creating social media content can be the key to unlocking top earner potential.

Noah Westerlund, Executive Vice President, NOW Tech, in a conversation with Wayne Moorehead, discussed the importance of Quick Commerce and long-form landing pages to increase conversion rates.

Michele Gay, Co-Founder & Chairwoman, LimeLife by Alcone, described the toll the pandemic took on women especially, and how the Three Laws of Performance helped her sales field and staff overcome the fixed mindsets and patterns of excuses that two years of living in a socially distanced world had created.

From left: STUART JOHNSON / CEO of Direct Selling News,
Direct Selling Partners & NOW Tech
WAYNE MOOREHEAD / Host of Direct Approach Podcast

Ben Riley, President, Young Living, reminded participants of the importance of disruption and how direct selling leaders can leverage small-scale innovation and strategic change management to outsmart gig economy competitors.

Brandy Huyser, Director of XS Energy and Next Gen Strategy, Amway/XS, reflected on 20 years of adventure as the XS Energy brand built momentum by upending business-as-usual at Amway, staying focused on the field, controlling the supply chain through local manufacturing and creation and designing a youth-driven culture.

Michele Gay /
Co-Founder & Chairwoman, LimeLife by Alcone

Jason Dorsey, President, Center for Generational Kinetics, Speaker and Researcher, offered a sneak peek at the first-ever generational research study conducted in direct selling that he will be leading for Direct Selling News to uncover how to quickly connect with, build trust and drive influence across generations.

Gina Ghura, Chief Marketing Officer, MONAT, offered advice for building consumer love through relationship building, personalized customer experiences, distinctive product offerings and a compensation plan that rewards customer acquisition and retention.

Garrett McGrath / President, ANMP

Rajneesh Chopra, Chief Commercial Officer, Immunotec, shared how the company invested in technology and opened new markets and manufacturing facilities during the pandemic, resulting in tremendous growth that is moving them forward in the midst of a cooling economy.

Garrett McGrath, President, ANMP, talked about the power of tiny gains and how improving by one percent every day in the areas of customer retention, community building and compensation strategies can build unstoppable momentum.

Dana Roefer, Author, Entrepreneur and Direct Selling Strategist, highlighted takeaways from her book Shopping Social and shared how education is crucial for helping consumers understand how social shopping can connect them with products that support their best life.

DARNELL SELF /
Executive Vice President of Network & Business Development, PPLSI

Darnell Self, Executive Vice President of Network and Business Development, PPLSI, shared his insights as both a field leader and industry executive, shining a light on the undervalued priorities of effective communication and a healthy team culture.

Gordon Hester, General Manager Sales, North America, PM-International AG, explained how culture is the biggest differentiator in business, and why focusing on revenue drivers and profitability can prevent feelings of entitlement and division within the field.

Must-See (In-Person) Events

The energy of this DSU—the first in-person fall version ever held—was inspiring, and the feedback received was overwhelmingly positive—making this Direct Selling University one of the most successful to date.

Planning for the next DSU event in April of 2023 in Frisco, Texas is underway, and the momentum and excitement is already building.


From the December 2022 issue of Direct Selling News magazine.

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Good News from around the Globe https://www.directsellingnews.com/2022/09/29/good-news-from-around-the-globe/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=good-news-from-around-the-globe Thu, 29 Sep 2022 18:32:00 +0000 https://www.directsellingnews.com/?p=17642 Every year we take a long, thorough look at the state of the channel around the globe in our Billion Dollar Markets issue. We always look forward to this issue because there are so many encouraging stories for direct selling happening around the world.

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Every year we take a long, thorough look at the state of the channel around the globe in our Billion Dollar Markets issue. We always look forward to this issue because there are so many encouraging stories for direct selling happening around the world.

I hope you enjoy this data-driven, in-depth article covering the current state of the channel in The Americas, Asia Pacific and Europe. While some markets are down or stagnant, others are experiencing positive signs of growth despite the difficult global economic situation and lingering supply chain issues.

Tony Jeary contributes an article full of practical advice on becoming a more inspirational leader in all facets of your life this month.

Don’t miss the excerpt from this month’s Iconic Insights podcast where our host Heather Chastain interviews the incomparable Les Brown. We also explore two companies in this issue—4Life and pawTree. And you don’t want to miss our take on single-level distribution models and how they are changing the way direct sellers do business.

DSN remains your daily resource for global news impacting the direct selling channel. If you haven’t yet, we invite you to sign up for the weekly dashboard email which delivers a week’s worth of news in a quick 15-minute read each Sunday. You can also sign up for free text alerts by becoming a member of our VIP Community where you’ll always get the channel’s top stories first and fast.

We also invite you to register for the upcoming Fall DSU Event. Our second DSU of the year will be back with both in-person and virtual options available free of charge October 6 and 7, 2022 in Irving, Texas. Register and see a list of speakers at dsu2022.com.

All the best,

Shelley Rojas | Publisher & Chief Brand Officer


From the September 2022 issue of Direct Selling News magazine.

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Success Stories that Inspire https://www.directsellingnews.com/2022/08/30/success-stories-that-inspire/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=success-stories-that-inspire Tue, 30 Aug 2022 18:23:00 +0000 https://www.directsellingnews.com/?p=17641 Direct selling has several of these up and comers right now—young companies with solid leadership, innovative products and serious momentum. We explore their stories in this month’s cover story.

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We’ve all seen it countless times, inside (and outside) the channel—companies that take off like a rocket ship but then struggle to maintain that momentum, unprepared and indecisive when faced with the realities of rapid growth. But then there are the companies that take off like a rocket ship and then figure out how to maintain a respectable cruising altitude. They face challenges and obstacles to be sure, but they set an ambitious trajectory to success and stay right on course.

Direct selling has several of these up and comers right now—young companies with solid leadership, innovative products and serious momentum. We explore their stories in this month’s cover story. We also get practical tips on surviving and thriving in hyper growth by one of the channel’s most inspiring young Founder/CEOs, Jesse McKinney of Red Aspen, plus insights on the importance of corporate culture for young companies from renowned industry expert Paul Adams.

We’ve also included an excerpt from this month’s Iconic Insights podcast where our host Heather Chastain interviews the always entertaining Rita Davenport. As well as a spotlight on Market America and a look at how DTC referral programs provide a blueprint for direct selling success.

DSN remains your daily resource for global news impacting the direct selling channel. If you haven’t yet, make sure to sign up for the weekly dashboard email which delivers a week’s worth of news in a quick 15-minute read each Sunday. You can also sign up for free text alerts by becoming a member of our VIP Community where you’ll always get the channel’s top stories first and fast.

We invite you to make plans to join us in October for the Fall DSU executive educational event. Our second DSU of the year will be back with both in-person and virtual options available free of charge October 6 and 7, 2022 in Irving, Texas. You can register now at dsu2022.com.

We also just had our first-ever DSN members-only workshop with Jason Dorsey in July. It was the kind of unique, limited-access event our member companies can utilize to grow forward. I invite you to consider becoming a member of DSN. Read about the benefits and find out more information.

All the best,

Shelley Rojas | Publisher & Chief Brand Officer


From the August 2022 issue of Direct Selling News magazine.

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Leading the Way https://www.directsellingnews.com/2022/07/29/leading-the-way/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=leading-the-way Fri, 29 Jul 2022 18:17:00 +0000 https://www.directsellingnews.com/?p=17640 In these challenging times, when so many companies are understaffed and overburdened, I know many of the executives in the channel are hyper focused on leadership. It’s important that each of us dig deep for ways to help our teams, both internal and in the field.

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In these challenging times, when so many companies are understaffed and overburdened, I know many of the executives in the channel are hyper focused on leadership. It’s important that each of us dig deep for ways to help our teams, both internal and in the field. The saying “we are in the people business” has never carried more meaning than it does today. The world has changed, and what people need and want has changed. Our leadership styles must evolve and adapt to provide people what they need to feel appreciated, encouraged and successful in today’s environment.

With that in mind, we dedicated this issue to leadership. Each of the articles this month offers insights and strategies into how executives are answering the call for new and innovative ways to inspire and evolve the channel. We’ve got all bases covered—from a deep dive into the evolving role of the Founder/CEO, to a primer on the leadership blind spots you may not be aware of, to some quick, easily actionable strategies to better the communication style of your team—you’ll find it all in this month’s DSN.

We’ve also included an excerpt from this month’s Iconic Insights podcast where our host Heather Chastain interviews the always insightful and entertaining Jason Dorsey. If you are looking for ways to best connect with Gen Z, Jason is an expert like no other!

DSN is your daily resource for global news impacting the direct selling channel. If you haven’t yet, make sure to sign up for the weekly dashboard email which delivers a week’s worth of news in a quick 15-minute read each Sunday. You can also sign up for free text alerts by becoming a member of our VIP Community where you’ll always get the top stories first and fast.

I’m excited to share that the DSU executive educational event will be back this fall with both in-person and virtual options available free of charge. I hope you can join us October 6-7, 2022 in Irving, Texas—register now at dsu2022.com.

All the best,

Shelley Rojas | Publisher & Chief Brand Officer


From the July 2022 issue of Direct Selling News magazine.

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Our Biggest Issue of the Year! https://www.directsellingnews.com/2022/06/28/our-biggest-issue-of-the-year/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=our-biggest-issue-of-the-year Tue, 28 Jun 2022 14:43:00 +0000 https://www.directsellingnews.com/?p=17613 This issue is our biggest of the year—and that’s because it’s our chance to recap everything we have learned and shared at the spring Direct Selling University and the annual DSN Global Celebration events. Now is the time where we can celebrate everything the channel and its top companies have accomplished over the past year.

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Summer is upon us! As my oldest son recently graduated from high school, I can’t help but think about all the milestones and memories the last 18 years have held. And all the exciting changes that are on the horizon.

In many ways, I feel the same way about the direct selling industry. This issue is our biggest of the year—and that’s because it’s our chance to recap everything we have learned and shared at the spring Direct Selling University and the annual DSN Global Celebration events. Now is the time where we can celebrate everything the channel and its top companies have accomplished over the past year. And it’s the perfect moment to take a glance at the potential of a bright and prosperous future, too.

This issue is packed with recaps of Direct Selling University, the DSN Global Celebration, insights, trends and analysis of our annual Global 100 List as well as snapshot portraits of all 58 companies on it. We share in-depth coverage of all the Bravo Award recipients as well. We think there is a lot to celebrate in the channel right now—and many optimistic signs for continued growth in 2022 and beyond—this issue is full of all the reasons why!

Make sure to check out this month’s Company Spotlight on Le-Vel. They are marking a milestone this year—their 10th anniversary. This article takes a candid look back at where they’ve been and shines a light on their exciting next steps.

We’ve also included an excerpt from this month’s Iconic Insights podcast where our host Heather Chastain interviews the incredible Suze Orman, who delivers several powerful insights into not only how to best plan your financial future, but how to help your field do the same. Make sure to check out the full episode as well as the rest of our podcasts at directsellingnews.com or wherever you find your favorite podcasts!

At DSN, we always want to be your daily resource for global news impacting the direct selling channel. If you haven’t yet, make sure to sign up for our free resources, like the weekly dashboard email which delivers a week’s worth of news in a quick 15-minute read each Sunday. You can also sign up for free text alerts by becoming a member of our VIP Community where you’ll always get the top stories first and fast.

Direct Selling University and the DSN Global Celebration were both amazing events. Thank you to everyone who attended both in person and virtually. We’re already planning our next hybrid DSU event to be held this fall—we hope to see you there!

All the best,

Shelley Rojas | Publisher & Chief Brand Officer


From the June 2022 issue of Direct Selling News magazine.

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Direct Selling University 2022 https://www.directsellingnews.com/2022/06/10/direct-selling-university-2022/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=direct-selling-university-2022 Fri, 10 Jun 2022 16:35:41 +0000 https://www.directsellingnews.com/?p=16623 The multi-day educational event offered new insight and strategies for connecting with a rapidly evolving market.

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The multi-day educational event offered new insight and strategies for connecting with a rapidly evolving market.
STUART JOHNSON / CEO of Direct Selling News, Direct Selling Partners & NOW Technologies

After a multi-year hiatus, Direct Selling University was back in-person at the Omni Hotel in Frisco, Texas, infused with more energy and excitement than ever before. The educational and networking opportunity, which has been held virtually during the pandemic, offered experience-based, high-impact insight into everything from improving communication and onboarding practices to the importance of sustainability and diversity.

“Being back in person for the first time in three years was incredibly energizing,” said Shelley Rojas, Publisher and Chief Brand Officer for Direct Selling News. “The human connectivity and interaction reuniting with our in-person attendees was inspiring and a lot of fun.”

Headlining the event was Jason Dorsey, author, speaker, researcher and President of The Center for Generational Kinetics, who shared an extensive data-backed look at the generational trends in consumer purchasing, recruitment, communication and engagement. His keynote address inspired an enthusiastic conversation among attendees about how companies can leverage their culture, technology, digital footprint, messaging tactics and customer service strategies to successfully reach even more people.

JASON DORSEY / President of The Center for Generational Kinetics

“It’s always important to have outside, expert perspectives to help everyone learn, grow, stretch and evolve individually and as a channel,” Rojas said. “Jason’s insights and research on generational trends are fascinating.”

Technology was by far the most discussed category among the generational divides, with Dorsey highlighting how each age group interacts with online platforms in unique ways. By honoring every generational segment within the industry, from Gen Z to Baby Boomers, and acknowledging their separate needs and preferences, Dorsey illustrated how the channel has the opportunity to become not only more relevant, but more effective as well.

“Direct selling has and will always be a people business,” Rojas said. “The more companies focus on how to understand and embrace people from every generation for their strengths and communication styles combined with diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in their decision making and culture building, we believe significant shifts and evolution can happen.”

Edify and Inform

KATY HOLT-LARSEN / President & CEO, Kyäni

This year’s lineup featured more than 30 speakers from top performing direct selling brands, rising stars within the industry, marketing experts and innovators, with thought leaders and top executives from companies around the world gathered to network, learn and share insights throughout the two-day event.

“At DSN, we strive to edify, inform and educate the channel and the executives that lead it,” said Stuart Johnson, Direct Selling News Founder and CEO. “Direct Selling University serves as a strong foundation for that goal by bringing together some of the channel’s most prominent executives, champions and thought leaders. We create an open, transparent environment that’s designed to foster the sharing of ideas and best practices for the betterment of direct selling as a whole.”

Carrying that mission beyond the event, Direct Selling News also shared its new opportunities for connection, through the DSN VIP Community, a fully customizable text messaging platform that sends news alerts based on user preferences, and the DSN Membership Program, which provides exclusive training and educational opportunities to keep corporate staff members one step ahead with the most important trends and breaking news.

ROLF SORG / Founder & CEO, PM-International

“We’re in the midst of a strategic renaissance here at Direct Selling News and are eagerly looking for ways to share practical solutions to common challenges with the executives who are leading the future of this channel,” Rojas said.

Jason Dorsey, Author, Speaker and President of The Center for Generational Kinetics, brought decades’ worth of data to the stage, sharing the generational angles that no one is talking about and how paying attention to the differences in these segments can help companies future-proof their businesses.

Stuart Johnson, CEO, Direct Selling News, Direct Selling Partners & NOW Technologies, pointed out how the pandemic accelerated trends that were already in motion within the industry and how the channel can use sampling and referrals to capitalize on that customer-centric momentum.

Rolf Sorg, Founder & CEO, PM-International, illustrated how he used solution-oriented thinking to find opportunity within the challenges of the past year to exceed $2 billion in sales.

Sarah Shadonix, Founder & CEO, Scout & Cellar, shared some of her young company’s biggest mistakes and how learning from previous fumbles can help leaders build better businesses.

Brian Underwood, Co-Founder & CEO, Prüvit, and Terry Lacore, Founder & CEO, Lacore Enterprises, in a Q&A panel with Wayne Moorehead, Host of The Direct Approach Podcast, explained how their innovative partnership with Sunbasket is driving consumer engagement while building cost-effective and simple onramps for complicated products that develop loyal customers.

from left:
STUART JOHNSON / Founder & CEO, Direct Selling News
TARL ROBINSON / Founder & CEO, Plexus Worldwide
JOHN PARKER / West Region President & CSO, Amway
Mark Pentecost, Founder & Chairman, It Works!

John Parker, West Region President and Chief Sales Officer, Amway; Mark Pentecost, Founder & Chairman, It Works!; and Tarl Robinson, Founder & CEO, Plexus Worldwide, participated in a panel led by Stuart Johnson, and shared why investing in growth amid incredible momentum is critical; offered an inside look at Amway’s approach to sustaining an entrepreneurial culture while leading one of the most well-known brands in America; and how to embrace every phase of a company’s growth.

Ami Perry and Noah Westerlund of NOW Technologies leveraged their data analytics to illustrate how to improve adoption of digital platforms and increase recruitment and retention numbers.

Russ Fletcher, Chief Executive Officer, Xyngular, taught a Personal Development 101 course on stage, sharing how to involve distributors through quick, digital engagements while monitoring perceived value.

Shelley Rojas, Publisher and Chief Brand Officer, Direct Selling News, shared the many free resources available to direct selling executives to connect with breaking news, inspiring stories and education to find answers to everyday leadership challenges through DSN’s VIP community and vast masterclass archives with the DSN Membership Program.

DEBBIE BOLTON / Co-Founder, Norwex

Mike Lohner, President and Chief Financial Officer, Direct Selling Acquisition Corporation, provided an update on the first special purpose acquisition company entirely focused on the direct selling channel and traded on the New York Stock Exchange, including its overwhelmingly positive reception on the market that resulted in raising $230 million.

Kelly Bellerose, Senior Vice President, 4Life, used data from recent studies to explain how vital imagery is for brand communications and why cohesion through consistency, familiarity and repetition can form a brand language that draws in customers in a way that text alone never could.

Debbie Bolton, Co-Founder, Norwex, told the story of how she switched her mindset from a perspective of building a dynasty to creating a legacy, and how leading with the future in mind has helped her company stay relevant.

Daniel Picou, Founder and CEO, Vasayo, discussed lessons learned during international expansion into China, and how to build a sustainable business through steady growth built on customer loyalty and a flexible leadership team.

JESSE McKINNEY, AMANDA MOORE and GENIE REESE /
Co-Founders, Red Aspen with Heather Chastain

Kindra Hall, Author, Speaker and Storytelling Expert, explained why the stories we tell ourselves can limit our success, and offered an action plan for transforming the lives of potential superstar leaders by teaching them how to change their own storytelling.

Jesse McKinney, Amanda Moore, Genie Reese, Co-Founders, Red Aspen, interviewed by Heather Chastain, Founder & CEO, Bridgehead Collective and new Strategic Advisor at DSN, shared how they drive engagement through constantly refreshing their product offerings and why sharing all of their marketing assets and training materials publicly has decreased skepticism.

Kevin Guest, Chairman & CEO, USANA, talked about how 30 years of successful business has illustrated the importance of focusing on active customer counts rather than revenue to maintain the overall growth and long-term sustainability of a company.

KEVIN GUEST / Chairman & CEO, USANA

Sinan Tuna, CEO North America, Farmasi, shared his perspective as a Gen Z leader and how his company has crafted a winning expansion strategy by being nimble, responsive and fast moving.

Wayne Moorehead, Marketing, Brand Strategy & Direct-to-Consumer Industry Expert and Host of The Direct Approach podcast, discussed the changing competitive landscapes direct sellers operate in and how companies can deliver a timely, relevant message across a growing array of customer touchpoints.

Katy Holt-Larsen, President and CEO, Kyäni, talked about how to take the industry to the next level by fighting back against “business as usual” and casting a resilient vision.

Stuart MacMillan, President, MONAT, pointed out the uniqueness of the channel and how an unwavering commitment to acquiring and satisfying customers is the best engine for growth and an effective defense against an ever-changing regulatory environment.

Crayton Webb, Founder & CEO, Sunwest Communications, shared lessons from pop culture about crisis preparedness and how quick, clear communication can prevent damage to a brand’s reputation.

Kirsten Aguilar, Executive Vice President of Global Marketing and SeneCare, SeneGence, shared how they have leveraged a collaboration with distributors who have massive social media followings to promote products in a budget-friendly, viral way.

DON THOMPSON / President, LegalShield

Paul Adams, Founder & CEO, Adams Resource Group, offered a blueprint for how to create, own and defend your company culture.

Deborah K. Heisz, Co-CEO, Neora, explained the importance of leading rather than reacting in a crisis and shared the key components of their success amid a lengthy battle with the FTC.

Heather Chastain, Founder & CEO, Bridgehead Collective, encouraged leaders to manage field expectations through realistic stories and thoughtful transparency to help them reach their goals.

JOHN ADDISON / CEO, Addison Leadership Group

Kindsey Pentecost, Chief Marketing Officer, It Works!, shared how authenticity, caring for their corporate team as well as the field, being willing to fail, and aligning their culture with their brand accelerated their growth and gave them a competitive advantage.

Don Thompson, President, LegalShield, discussed the challenges of being an established subscription-based service company with aging field leadership and their innovative solutions that honor these legacies while infusing energy into new recruits.

John Addison, Chief Executive Officer, Addison Leadership Group, called people to take charge of their thoughts and attitudes to cultivate a better life and become a person that people want to follow.


From the June 2022 issue of Direct Selling News magazine.

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Direct Selling’s Products Take Center Stage https://www.directsellingnews.com/2022/05/30/direct-sellings-products-take-center-stage/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=direct-sellings-products-take-center-stage Mon, 30 May 2022 16:13:00 +0000 https://www.directsellingnews.com/?p=17612 This month’s cover story celebrates some of the channel’s “top shelf” products. Consumer-driven crave-worthy products haven’t always been something people associate with our channel, but thankfully that is changing.

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It’s been quite a month for the Direct Selling News team. As this issue goes to print, we have just hosted so many of you both online and in person at the 13th Annual DSN Global Celebration and Direct Selling University events. It was an amazing week of fellowship, education, recognition and fun. We’ll give you an in-depth recap in next month’s issue, but for now I can only say that I am excited for the future of the channel and inspired by those of you who lead it!

This month’s cover story celebrates some of the channel’s “top shelf” products. Consumer-driven crave-worthy products haven’t always been something people associate with our channel, but thankfully that is changing. Several direct selling companies are creating products that are competing (and often winning) the battle for market share against traditional retail companies. We take a look at who, how and why the shift is taking place.

Paul Adams contributes a thoughtful piece this month on how to align your vision, mission and values (and the importance of each), and DSN Founder and CEO Stuart Johnson shares his insights on companies inside and outside the channel with impactful omnichannel approaches.

There are two can’t-miss company spotlights in this issue as well. It Works! reflects on the past two decades and looks to their future. And LimeLife by Alcone, in business since 2015, shares their new, disruptive approach to compensation plans and incentives.

We’ve also included an excerpt from this month’s Iconic Insights podcast where our host Heather Chastain interviews the always charming and inspiring Kindra Hall on the power of storytelling—especially the stories we tell ourselves. Make sure to check out the full episode as well as the rest of our podcasts at directsellingnews.com or wherever you find your favorite podcasts!

At DSN, we always want to be your daily resource for global news impacting the direct selling channel. If you haven’t yet, make sure to sign up for the weekly dashboard email which delivers a week’s worth of news in a quick 15-minute read each Sunday. You can also sign up for free text alerts by becoming a member of our VIP Community where you’ll always get our top stories first and fast.

It was a pleasure and privilege to see so many of you in person at Direct Selling University and the DSN Global Celebration. There is absolutely no substitute for the synergy, connection and momentum that happens when this group gathers in person. And thank you to the thousands that joined us around the world to watch virtually. We’re already planning our next hybrid DSU event—we can’t wait to do it all again this fall. Stay tuned!

All the best,

Shelley Rojas | Publisher & Chief Brand Officer


From the May 2022 issue of Direct Selling News magazine.

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Congratulations to the Best Places to Work! https://www.directsellingnews.com/2022/04/29/congratulations-to-the-best-places-to-worl/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=congratulations-to-the-best-places-to-worl Fri, 29 Apr 2022 20:03:00 +0000 https://www.directsellingnews.com/?p=17611 In this month’s issue, we honor seven companies as the 2022 Best Places to Work in Direct Selling. We partnered with Quantum Workplace, an HR technology company collecting Best Places to Work data for more than a decade.

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DSN launched the Best Places to Work in Direct Selling program in 2016 in order to celebrate the important role direct selling companies play as employers in the marketplace and identify the best of the best companies in the channel. In this month’s issue, we honor seven companies as the 2022 Best Places to Work in Direct Selling. We partnered with Quantum Workplace, an HR technology company collecting Best Places to Work data for more than a decade.

This month’s cover story takes an in-depth look at the commonalities these companies share as well as valuable insights on the employment satisfaction and retention trends that are currently shaping the channel. We’ve categorized one of these shifts as “seismic” in nature—this is information you definitely need to know! We’ve also included a 24-page supplement with this issue that gives in-depth profiles into this year’s honorees—we can all learn a lot from their success stories!

You’ll also find articles on the current supply chain crisis (including tips for how you can best navigate these challenges from companies in the channel that are doing it well); the “do”s and “don’t”s of Income Disclosure Statements; a spotlight on the premiere skincare company, Rodan + Fields, on their 15th anniversary; and some invaluable tips from Tony Jeary on creating an unforgettable corporate “vibe.”

We’ve also included an excerpt from this month’s Iconic Insights podcast where our host Heather Chastain interviews the incomparable Bob Burg on the five laws of stratospheric success. Make sure to check out the full podcast—as well as the rest of our podcasts at directsellingnews.com or wherever you find your favorite podcasts!

At DSN, we always want to be your daily resource for global news impacting the direct selling channel. If you haven’t yet, make sure to sign up for the weekly dashboard email which delivers a week’s worth of news in a quick 15-minute read each Sunday. You can also sign up for text alerts by becoming a member of our VIP community where you’ll always get our top stories first and fast.

And if you haven’t registered for DSU and the DSN Global Celebration events yet, you can sign up for both at
dsu2022.com—we’ve got more awards, speakers and surprises in store than ever before when we meet in person (for the first time since 2019) April 19-21.

All the best,

Shelley Rojas | Publisher & Chief Brand Officer


From the April 2022 issue of Direct Selling News magazine.

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Breaking the Billion Dollar Barrier https://www.directsellingnews.com/2022/03/31/breaking-the-billion-dollar-barrier/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=breaking-the-billion-dollar-barrier Thu, 31 Mar 2022 19:50:00 +0000 https://www.directsellingnews.com/?p=17610 That’s the dream for so many companies—direct sellers included. And that’s why this month we decided to take an in-depth look at what it takes to reach that enviable milestone.

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That’s the dream for so many companies—direct sellers included. And that’s why this month we decided to take an in-depth look at what it takes to reach that enviable milestone. There are over a dozen companies in direct selling that have reached billion-dollar status—we wanted to know what they had in common and if there were lessons to be learned from their journeys we could share with our readers. We found some pretty surprising (and also not-so-surprising) commonalities in their cultures, operations and structures. I think this is a story every executive in the channel can benefit from—I hope you enjoy it.

I also think you’ll find Jason Dorsey’s article on how to hire and attract the next generation of direct selling executives to be full of insights and easy action items as well. Jason is THE expert on generational differences and dynamics. I always find myself nodding my head and taking pages of notes whenever I hear him speak or read his work. I am excited to share he will be a keynote speaker at Direct Selling University April 20 and 21—registration for this free hybrid event is open now at dsu2022.com.

In honor of International Women’s Day happening March 8, we examine how direct selling companies are helping aspiring female entrepreneurs around the world and here at home build a better life. We also take a closer look at newcomer to the billion-dollar club, Scentsy, and check in on Bellame as they share their story of a startup who didn’t just survive but thrived during the pandemic.

And check out the excerpt from our second Iconic Insights podcast hosted by social selling thought leader Heather Chastain! Each month, Heather engages with the world’s finest authors, speakers and innovators, exploring how their unique points of view relate to direct selling. This month she chats with Gloria Mayfield Banks on the importance of recognition. Make sure to check out the full episode—as well as the rest of our podcasts at directsellingnews.com or wherever you find your favorite podcasts!

As always, DSN strives to be your daily resource for global news impacting the direct selling channel. If you haven’t yet, make sure to sign up for the weekly dashboard email which delivers a week’s worth of news in a quick 15-minute read each Sunday. You can also sign up for text alerts by becoming a member of our VIP community where you’ll always get our top stories first and fast.

All the best,

Shelley Rojas | Publisher & Chief Brand Officer


From the March 2022 issue of Direct Selling News magazine.

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A Season to Celebrate https://www.directsellingnews.com/2021/12/29/a-season-to-celebrate-2/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=a-season-to-celebrate-2 Wed, 29 Dec 2021 18:31:26 +0000 https://www.directsellingnews.com/?p=15341 From the December 2021 issue of Direct Selling News magazine. THE HOLIDAYS ARE UPON US—I hope each of you are enjoying this special time of year with those that mean the most to you. This season reminds each of us of the importance of surrounding ourselves with family and friends; of giving back to our community; of creating an […]

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From the December 2021 issue of Direct Selling News magazine.

THE HOLIDAYS ARE UPON US—I hope each of you are enjoying this special time of year with those that mean the most to you. This season reminds each of us of the importance of surrounding ourselves with family and friends; of giving back to our community; of creating an environment where everyone is welcome—an environment where there is always room at the inn.

These are some of the themes we cover in this month’s issue of Direct Selling News. In our cover story, we examine several of the companies in the channel committed to making the world a better place. And we discuss the surprising benefits to their bottom line. We also offer some practical tips on how to identify and edify the causes that mean the most to you and to your customers and field.

We also take a deep dive into diversity and inclusion. Direct selling has always prided itself on creating a viable opportunity and community for everyone. It should come as no surprise that the companies actively prioritizing inclusion are attracting more customers and distributors. DSU keynote speaker Simon T. Bailey generously shares his research in this month’s issue.

I think you’ll also enjoy our feature highlighting some of the most successful founders in the channel. What do they all have in common? They started out as distributors—learning the ups and downs of our channel from the ground up, pouring their experience and knowledge into dynamic, thriving companies.

This issue also features in-depth profiles on Kyäni and their resurgence and resilience in the face of unspeakable tragedy; and Oola, a fascinating startup with a product all of us benefit from—personal development tools and resources.

Finally, I’d like to thank our new Platinum Members: It Works!, Plexus, Prüvit and SeneGence, and our Premier Partners: Exigo, InfoTrax and Nexio. Your generous patronage and support allows DSN to provide even more in-depth research, advocacy, journalism, recognition and support to the channel.

From the DSN family to yours, we hope you have a safe and happy holiday season. Here’s to another amazing year!

All the best,

Shelley Rojas | Publisher & Chief Brand Officer

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