Meanwhile, in Eastern Canada…

Regan, Stephen, Michael Jr., and I have had a blast meeting everyone on our Road Tour, but we weren’t the only ones indulging in our wanderlust this last week. Dave Nash, Univera’s Director of Sales, Canada, has traveled to several cities in Eastern Canada to meet both Associates and prospects there and share with them the Univera story, vision, and opportunity. We are SO PROUD of the Canadians and all they do to contribute to Bill’s vision.

Here’s what Dave had to report back:

“In the last 10 days, nearly 500 Canadians from Eastern Canada – of which more than 230 were guests – joined me at 10 meetings held between Charlottetown, Halifax, Toronto, Montreal, and Sault Saint Marie. At these events, Associates and prospects alike found inspiration in both the health and business success stories that were shared, offered their own insight and tips on the best business-building strategies, learned about the scientific firepower of Univera and its sister companies in the ECONET, and — despite the financial challenges that are facing the economy – came to realize how Univera is in the forefront to alleviate these monetary stresses. The local leadership, with Corporate support, has been doing amazing work this region, which is quickly becoming one of the fastest growing areas in the entire company. A special thank you to the Field event hosts and presenters who prepared, organized, and executed these flawless events. These Associates are listed below:

  • Andre Bedard, Diamond Associate
  • Richard Denomme, Platinum Associate
  • Phillipe LeFrance, Platinum Associate
  • Stephanie Locker, Associate
  • Harry Mathers, Platinum Associate
  • M’Ellen Mathers, Gold Associate
  • Heather Patton, Gold Associate
  • Paavo Pollari, Platinum Associate
  • Tammy and Brad Snyder, Platinum Associates
  • Sara Spicer, Platinum Associate
  • Angelyn Toth, Diamond Associate
  • Louis Villeneuve, Platinum Associate
  • Jessie Wheatley, Gold Associate
  • Bill Wolfington, Diamond Associate”

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your doctor. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all day. What is the most significant information you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good health, its doubtless important for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft can kill the mood in bedroom.

From the Road: Behind the Scenes


(Video footage from the road)

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your doctor. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all when. What is the most significant information you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good heartiness, its doubtless significant for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft can kill the mood in bedroom.

Ten to Jax

img_3706Sunday was supposed to be our day of rest with no meetings this day.

But that didn’t quite happen. We awoke around 7 a.m. and started to the airport a little after 8 a.m., spent most of the day in airports and on two flights and arrived in Knoxville, Tennessee around 4 p.m. After getting to the hotel, we checked in. Have you ever checked into a huge hotel that’s completely vacant? It was a little creepy at first; I mean, I’ve truly never — in my life — think I’ve ever gone into a huge hotel and not seen a single soul other than the person checking you in.

So after MJ made a few jokes, he and I dropped the bags off and went off to Best Buy to pick up some equipment and then stopped by and attended a local church service on the way back — right before dinner. Good times.

img_3737Actually, while we were at the Best Buy, something hilarious happened in the store. I mean, really, it was hysterical, and I wish I had a photo of it (maybe I’ll try to recreate it at another Best Buy). It’s a bit too long of a story to post.

Monday morning came quickly, and with such a tough time slot on the first day of the week, we were half expecting an audience of 40-60 people. But when we arrived a half hour early, the room was already half full, and the room continued to swell until it was full. I’m guessing there were about 225 people in the audience, and I expect over 100 were guests.

Honestly, I wasn’t sure how comedy was going to work at 8 a.m. on a Monday morning — but it worked out just fine. Michael Jr. had a really casual and relaxing approach into the bit and took some audience questions, which then kicked us into a presentation about the Vision, Products, and Business Opportunity.

img_3716We were so impressed with the preparedness of both the audience and the guests; among many exceptionally well-managed meetings, this was probably the best. I can’t say enough great things about Jeff Johnson, the local Diamond, as well as the host of leaders there who were helping out with all sorts of logistics and making sure people were comfortable (Kristi, David, Victoria…many others I am sure I am missing).

Finally, Jeff closed with what I think is the most poignant and compelling question I’ve heard thus far on the Road Tour. He asked the audience, through the telling of both a personal story as well as a gut-wrenching experience about a couple for whom he cares deeply, to find the reason they weren’t going to join Univera, and to share this with the people that they loved. Meaning, with all that the opportunity this can provide — friendship, physical renewal, income, freedom — what’s really the good reason you have to withhold this from the people that you care so deeply about?

img_3742I can’t do his departing thoughts justice in one paragraph and in the written word; all I can tell you is that it was a powerful reminder of the responsibility as well as opportunity that we share. Jeff and team, thank you for being such outstanding hosts and coordinating an incredible event.

And RIGHT after this meeting, we were off to Jacksonville.

Have I mentioned we have had gorgeous sunshine this entire trip? Spectacular! And beyond this, not a hitch with all of our transportation. Every flight on time, every bag checked and received, nary a problem — apart from difficulty finding yogurt parfaits. But that’s something we can manage around.

img_3792(This is called foreshadowing).

Jax was GORGEOUS; despite a coming cold front, we arrived to find temperate air, a nice breeze, clear skies. And the drive to the Ramada Inn over a few bridges with glistening water surrounding us was therapeutic for each of us.

Unfortunately, Stephen had doctor meetings that afternoon — which supposedly forced him to eat at Bob Evans right after we checked, in since he couldn’t join us at 5 p.m., which I find absolutely hysterical. If any of you know, Bob Evans is like a more upscale McDonalds in terms of food choices. It’s not that it’s a bad restaurant, but it’s just a country-style restaurant (haven’t been in years) with very basic home cooking and a lot of focus on the comfort foods. So he was ranting about his meal of biscuits and gravy, walking in, as we were walking out to our delicious meal at Bonefish Grill comprised of fresh fish and grilled vegetables. While I wish Stephen could have joined us, there was at least a little humor in where he ate and what he thought about it.

The meeting was run by Jim Wagner — and I’m telling you, this guy is an incredible host. He’s warm, friendly, compelling, professional, and gentle. Each of the Exec’s, as well as Michael Jr., was really amazed at his talent in hosting such a well-run meeting. So many people, like at other events, helped out behind the scenes including Ginger Ward and so many others whose names won’t make the pages of this blog (hopefully some of your photos will, though).

And the attendance was great, I’m guessing 150 but with a lot of guests — and beyond. This was really a fun event, exactly like last time, with great energy along with some new leadership.

Michael Jr. incorporated a great spotlight joke, opened it up with some real genuine laughter — which is truly supposed to be presented as a gift — and then we worked our way through the presentation.
Lots of fun speaking with Associates, old and new, as well as all the first-timer guests who attended.

Road Tour in Pictures

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your doctor. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all season. What is the most significant information you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good health, its doubtless great for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft can kill the mood in bedroom.

Feedback from the Road

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your doctor. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all period. What is the most significant info you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good soundness, its doubtless important for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft can kill the mood in bedroom.

The Cowboys vs. the Longhorns

okcity_re-szied3Oklahoma City had a great meeting last spring with over 200 people at a luncheon event.

This week’s event was a little trickier: a Friday night at 7 p.m. during high school football season. And the Oklahoma State Cowboys were set to play the Texas Longhorns the following day. About 125 people still showed up to our room. Along with FOUR GIANT PILLARS that decided to plant themselves evenly spaced at the very front of the room, serving as a beautiful blockade between the stage and the audience. Actually, it was quite hilarious.

So the energy wasn’t exactly buzzing with any of us in the room that night; it was both fun but a little flatter than the prior event. Joel Canon made up for it though; that guy is pretty excitable. A few days earlier, a maintenance person started messing with the stage, and Michael Jr. incorporated him into the comedy.

okcity_re-sized2okcity_re-sized1Well this night, we decided to add a twist and had a maintenance person come in the middle of Michael’s gig and move the podium — though this time, he only moved it like ten feet. Michael thought it was hilarious, and that served to open his Q&A time with the audience, which some of you will still see in our few coming events.

Afterwards, Michael, Regan, and I ate some local food at a nearby restaurant; and from our waitress (not sure, but I think her name was Madison), we heard another story that’s becoming all too familiar in our country today. A hard-working woman who had a few unexpected expenses (some large car repair bills) among other things caused her to get behind on rent payments and was just evicted that week from her apartment. The news and the stories we’re hearing are a little sobering, but at the same time, it makes for all the better news in sharing the freedom of the business opportunity.

okcity_re-sized

From there, we headed south to Austin on game day. The place was packed with energy, and this is one cool city to begin with.

austin_re-sizedPrior to the event, we started the evening at the Club Lounge (Regan and Stephen had access; mysteriously, neither Michael nor I were on the Club-level floor). Traveling with a comedian is pretty hilarious, but it’s taken a while to figure out what’s a joke and what’s a serious question or statement coming from Michael.

Or Regan for that matter.

You put a yellow personality along with a comedian, and you’re asking for some trouble and a lot of one liners. And when it really gets raucous, there’s a few of us who will start laughing like Michael Jr. (he has this “HeeeeHAAAAA” way of laughing during his show, followed often by a statement: “Man, that was hysterical… And I just make that up on the spot… I am hilarious.”) So I think we’re doing a decent job of dishing it out as well as taking it so far.

austin_re-sized2At the Club level, we met a few other people who almost became enticed enough through our good times to come to the Univera event, but we couldn’t quite convince them to cancel their plans and join.

So we showed up to the event, and about a hundred people were there -— which really, I have to say, impressed all of us given that it was BOTH a Saturday night AND right after the Longhorns won the game a few hours earlier.

Those who attended were in great spirits -— at tie for the energy level at Denver. Michael Jr. was absolutely hilarious this night; and Regan and Stephen as usual were great.

Gerald King gave this great testimonial, telling the story of his own personal experience of taking Xtra among other products and seeing his own personal interest and performance in triathlons increase so significantly, which sparked again his participation in these types of events.

austin_rre-sized1At the end we had some great dialogue with the local leadership as well as new Associates. I met a few new people who had just enrolled that week who were so excited about the opportunity and the prospect. Stephen always has a swarm of people around him after each event; this one was no different.

What I realized between San Antonio and Austin is that as Americans, and citizens of this world, we have three choices as we face the economic calamity before us, which is unprecedented in so many ways.

1. Panic. This, clearly, isn’t helpful or constructive. Good decisions are not often made during a period of panic.

2. Paralysis. This, also, isn’t useful. If you’re in a storm, you HAVE to seek shelter, but must be wise in doing so.

austin_re-sized33. Proactivity. This, clearly, is the course to take, using the information we have to take control of your financial future.

But, more on this at either a Road Tour event or another blog. For now, we’re signing off and headed off to the Knoxville event for a Monday morning breakfast.

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your doctor. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all when. What is the most significant info you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good health, its doubtless significant for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft can kill the mood in bedroom.

From the Desert to the Rockies

mesa_rt08_dscn2703I love the desert and the deep brown earthy soil of the Arizona landscape — perhaps odd to those who long for a bit more green, which is particularly abundant in the Northwest. So landing in Phoenix started my heart thumping a bit more vigorously. And walking off the airplane and feeling the dry warmth of the sun was a welcome experience after landing.

There’s some great youthful energy that exists in Phoenix. The market is in such infancy, but it has the support of both exceptionally strong leaders from across the country, as well as some emerging leaders local to this region.

Upon landing, I went for a run, I think Michael did a workout, Stephen did yoga, and Regan’s not telling what he did (naptime?). Whenever I travel to sunny cities, I just tend to go outside. It’s like the walkways are calling me to go exercise.

So we expected the Mesa event to be a really strong meeting, with an enthusiastic Associate audience as well as a good number of guests. John Ryan again hosted this meeting, and it was supplemented with some great testimonials by Peter Wright, Ron Fauntz, and Kenny Rossi towards the end.

Before the event started, I got to catch up with friends Gale George, Saul (without a known last name!), and Diane Tucker (Mrs. America and Mrs. World), who traveled down from Tucson to attend the event.

During the evening, Michael Jr. continued with a new twist to his routine on the Road Tour by engaging the audience with an open invitation for questions through which he creates impromptu comedy. It actually started by accident in Sacramento and worked well to open the audience up that he continued this into Mesa; we’ll see how much further it goes.

The Phoenix area, especially smarting from the decline in housing prices along with the tightening of the credit markets, had a new burst of both energy and urgency in the air — not unlike what’s felt across the U.S. I ended up talking to a good number of people who were so thankful for the timing of Univera and their involvement.

In fact, one amazing couple (out of many that I met) — the wife a teacher and the husband an owner of a collision repair facility — expressed what a “Godsend” (their words) Univera has been. In down economic times evidently (and logically), people will more often collect their insurance premium and not get the vehicle fixed on more cosmetic-oriented repairs. They expressed with both excitement and optimism the freedom they’re finding in Univera, as well as the fun and energy that it brings to their life and other people.

One night quickly ended, and it seemed my head just hit the pillow before the morning sun arose and we were off to Denver.

Sometimes, there are cities or geographies that are either so gorgeous or relaxing that I get chills. It doesn’t happen often (Sydney is an example), but for me, going to Denver (and the Colorado area in general) is incredibly therapeutic — between the mountains and air, the place is simply magical.

Stephen, again in an effort to save time (MJ, Regan, and I didn’t know we were in a hurry), rushed to the rental counter offsite while we got the bags, which, by the way, I think Regan and I can pretty much confirm after having watched this process for three cities that it really doesn’t save much time in the process, though it usually results in a little live comedy.

Speaking of, traveling with Michael Jr. is starting to get really fun. The first few days were a little awkward at times. Nothing big, but you know you’re spending a lot of time with a new person that you don’t really know. And, he’s a comedian. So every time he says something, you automatically assume it’s a joke. So it takes a while to learn the temp of the group. We really settled in at Denver, and I think Regan (who I’m convinced secretly wishes he pursued a career in comedy as well) is having about as much fun as he ever has had on a road trip.

There are more leaders concentrated in Denver than any other city in North America, and many readers probably don’t realize that Broomfield, Colo., served as home to Univera nearly 10 years ago. As a result, there’s a solid concentration of quite a few Diamonds and several Blue Diamonds among many other Univera Associates, which is another reason I always love to visit; I love spending time with the leadership here.

I’ve got to give good credit to the organizers and leaders of this event; many were involved in all the behind-the-scenes logistics, and it was extremely well run.

And there’s something about leadership in each event that lends itself to either great energy upon entering a room, or to be gentle about it, “not great energy.” Tonight’s meeting simply had great energy, buzz, and excitement — before anyone even picked up a microphone.

I attribute so much of this to the mood, energy, and excitement of the leadership’s example that day; it’s something each of us noticed visibly this evening, so a lot of props go out to all those local leaders who contributed their part to bring a high energy level to the room.

denver_rt08_dscn2707John Rogers really did an exceptional job hosting the event from both a flow and content perspective; it also didn’t hurt that he has an FM-quality radio voice.

Often, we spend time talking with Associates and guests at the end of the evening at Road Tours in the past, but what we’re loving about this event is that while we’re still spending time saying hello to the new and old, there’s a lot of time being spent among guests and hosts. And a lot of new signups.

Tonight was an example in spades; over 230 attendees (felt like more) and well over 100 new guests were at the event. As always, it was fantastic to say hello to both old and new friends in the area, and I wish we’d had more time to spend with more people.

denver_rt08_dscn2720But the best conversations of the night didn’t occur between any of us and the Field.

They occurred between the inviting Associate, the guest, and if available, the local Diamond or Blue Diamond for that organization.

Thanks, Denver, for an outstanding event with such great energy.

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your doctor. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all when. What is the most significant information you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good soundness, its doubtless great for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft can kill the mood in bedroom.

Sacramento to Orange County

roadsign1Tuesday, we hit up both Sacramento and Orange County, Calif. — a luncheon and evening meeting, respectively.

For some reason, visiting two cities in one day and giving two presentations leads to a very different flavor and level of emotional investment than if we had just one city per day. I like two-a-days, but they’re just, well, different. While on the road and speaking in various cities at different times, you can begin to just barely appreciate the level of intensity and exhaustion the two presidential candidates must feel after having campaigned for so many months.

Public speaking also gives an appreciation for grace towards silly statements made while in front of other people. So while I’ve had a good laugh at some of the Saturday Night Live skits of the candidates, as well as a few recent flubs during presentations, it’s with more comedic understanding rather than critical thought that I give both candidates a little slack. It ain’t easy, and I admire the vigor and perseverance of both candidates.

But, a blog about politics this is not, so we’ll dig back into the events.

We awoke in Reno at a casino hotel and hit the road shortly after 7 a.m.; we, being the foursome of Regan (aka Rengen), Stephen (aka CherNINske), Michael Junior, and me.

Gorgeous drive through the mountains from Reno to Sacramento, including thru the Lake Tahoe region; a place I’ve not been before but would someday like to go.

Pulling into the hotel for the event, we saw a few Bimmers sitting in front of the hotel. Immediately, I wondered if it really was a creative promotion of the Univera BMW car program; and, it was. Brilliant. The Sacramento guys had a BMW dealer drop a few off and highlight some of their special Univera deals, particularly relevant to those who are eligible (or soon to be) for the Bimmer program.

bimmersWe didn’t have much time pre-meeting in Sacramento due to the longer-than-expected drive from Reno, but I had the chance to meet both some existing Associates and new prospects. I was thrilled to see some old friends there and had the chance to sit next to Peter and Tahra Dergee, as well as briefly re-engage with many others.

John Ryan, a man with such a good heart and sincere intention, did a great job opening and hosting the event. Michael Jr. was the first speaker, and he was actually (as if this were a surprise) quite hilarious. But what was hilarious was the mic kept going in and out. So Michael did a GREAT open mic riff, first with the hotel staff trying to fix it, but then he went into a little audience participation which went over really well. I can’t say any more, lest I ruin it for the rest of you who are heading to an upcoming event.

Unfortunately, due to airline schedules, we had to leave before the end of the meeting to catch our flight to Orange County for a two-hour drive during rush hour. Stephen insisted on saving time by getting the car immediately while we pulled the bags, but somehow on each of these endeavors, it seems we burn more time than we save. But, he’s such a nice guy we can hardly stand to tell him that some of these time-saving mechanisms are hardly that. And since he only reads the blog sporadically, by the time he reads this, it’ll be old news.

Orange County was also a really solid event. I’d probably put it on par with the Sacramento luncheon, though it wasn’t nearly as rushed since we didn’t have the travel restrictions so in all reality it probably was a tad bit better.

Peter Wright hosted the event and did a fantastic job of really putting into perspective the reality of today’s economy. He’s a very articulate, intentional, and credible person–and speaks in the manner of who he is. One of his expressions (whether it’s original or not I don’t know, but either way I liked it) that he used was this: “Do you know how to tell the difference between a recession and a depression? A recession is when your neighbor loses his job, and a depression is when you lose yours.”

Clearly, not the economic definition but probably much closer to home and quite emotional. What I really liked about the LA event, and what we’ve started to see more of on this Road Tour, is that while we’re mingling with people post-event we are also seeing groups of people huddle together–associates and prospects–that are working on the pathway to freedom by enrolling as an associate in Univera.

More from the road soon…

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your doctor. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all season. What is the most significant information you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good soundness, its doubtless significant for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft can kill the mood in bedroom.

A Whirlwind of a Week–from Singapore to Reno

In the last week I feel I’ve been guilty of blogglect.

It’s basically the neglect of a blog.

A common condition not easily managed even with a superstar nutritional supplement like Xtra and often caused by busy schedules, lots of traveling, little sleep, much excitement, and quite a few meetings and phone calls with a few brief visits to those within the immediate family in between.

So much has happened since my first Singapore posting, of which I’ll post more (or share more via meetings) later on, but a quick update from the last ten days includes:

An incredible conclusion to the WFDSA meeting, where I left with even greater excitement about not just our international potential but also what we can do in North America. In meeting with so many different peers from around the world, what I also clearly saw were some companies I admired BUT also many companies that clearly don’t have a competitive edge on us.

Sure, there are pieces of other businesses that I admire, and there are always lessons we can learn and apply. But at the same time, there are so many companies out there that are global and successful (at least now in the short term) that have no clear business model, next-to-nothing in the way of resources or science, limited human and financial capital. So while I’m not in the slightest picking on any of my peers at any other companies — as there are some fine Direct Selling companies out there — I came back more confident than ever with our current and future potential given the resources, the science, the products, strategy, and our growth plans.

australia_1008_dscn2554Then, on the way home, I stopped by Sydney, Australia to do some due diligence on that market as we’re going through the preparation process for international expansion. Corporately, there will be an EVP international position that heads up this international work, but as an organization there is already a group working under Regan’s direction to lay some of the initial groundwork and preparations.

australia_1008_dscn2541In Sydney, I met with the executive director of the DSAA (Australian DSA), the former executive director who has spent nearly 40 years in this industry, predominantly in Australia, along with several other executives from companies within industry.

There’s so much that I learned and am excited about with this market that it’s really fodder for another blog posting. It’s a market that is similar in size to Canada, yet can also serve as a fantastic springboard to other international markets — particularly in SE Asia. Generally speaking, the feedback I heard from those on the ground in Australia is that they loved our model and could see great potential for us “down under.” Not only is the market potential great, but the city of Sydney is absolutely fantastic; if it’s not the best city I’ve ever traveled to, it’s certainly in the top three. And the people are an absolute hoot — friendly and enthusiastic. Great engaging personalities. A little bit feisty. For some of you this will represent a chance to go and work and enjoy a country that, perhaps, you would never have the opportunity to visit otherwise.

islandwood_dscn2582From there I flew home, cleaned out one bag and packed another to attend a portion of ECONET CEO meetings in Seattle. Of particular note, half the day on one of the meetings was dedicated to touring and learning about sustainable environmental practices at a retreat on Bainbridge Island. Islandwood is basically a teaching center for organizations and individuals and even serves as a summer camp for kids, dedicated towards building awareness and practical application of sustainable living and environmentally friendly practices.

Organizationally, our commitment from Bill on down runs deep in the integration of sustainable business practices, and the love of nature and the earth was rooted in him from an early age by the vision from his father — Yunho Lee. Beyond this anchor that serves throughout our Company, the Islandwood tour also served as a practical workshop for the things that we can consider and incorporate as a Company and individuals moving forward.

islandwood_dscn2568And, upon returning from the retreat, I unpacked that bag and immediately packed another for a trip to Alderbrook Resort where we held the Gold/Platinum Xpand your Business Seminar. Lots of excitement, it was a gorgeous weekend bookended with great training as well as some exceptional networking opportunities for those in attendance. Of course, for me it’s always fun to hear the stories of success — both from people within this industry who are familiar with its virtues, but also from many others who swore they would never get involved in Direct Selling…But became captivated by both the physical and financial freedom that’s available in Univera.

islandwood_dscn2581The part I enjoyed seeing most was the connection of relationships and people who, outside of this, would likely have never connected in quite the same way as they do now.

After this event it, too, led to another bag-change (this is like changing dresses for a beauty pagent, only I’m not a woman nor is this a pagent and neither am I wearing a dress — other than that, though, it’s identical).

So I came home, repacked as quickly as I unpacked, and hit the road on Monday morning to remarkable Reno. There is some outstanding leadership in Reno, anchored by Glen and Reagan Hubbard. This team engaged about 400 people (and I would guess nearly 200 guests) to our very first Road Tour city, a remarkable accomplishment in any city but particularly one that’s so new.

Glen and Reagan did a fantastic job opening the meeting, and Kenny Rossi (our most recent new Diamond) closed the event. At events where there are a lot of guests, the tone is often a bit different in that people are a bit more reserved; they’re coming in with questions rather than a full-on commitment. So while the meetings are more energetic and exciting when it’s 100% Associates, that’s not the market for the Road Tour. The objective is to have as many new people involved as possible so they can clearly hear about the vision, products, and business of Univera — while having a bit of fun.

reno_rt08_dscn2636So while I think we had a good solid event, the first one is always a little rusty (I’m speaking from the Corporate side) and it takes a while to work into it.

This is a unique event at a unique time in our history. As most already know, we have Michael Jr. joining us, which will be a one-time event for the Road Tour (no, he’s not becoming part of the Corporate team, we’re including him for this Road Tour only). What MJ provides is the opportunity for our presentations to more tightly hit the mark, to more seriously broach the very topics that people are dealing with most harshly right now — their health, and their finances.

The humor is intended to not only serve as a draw to the event and make it enjoyable throughout, but it also enables the Corporate team to get really engaged into the heart of the matter and what matters most to people in North America today.

So in Reno, after the event, which only lasted about one hour and 40 minutes (almost a good hour shorter than the last tour, to allow for plenty of dialogue time with guests/sponsors post event), we were thrilled to see so many tables of engaged people having great dialogue.

My sincere congratulations to Kenny, Glen, Reagan, Jordan, and many other leads in the Reno area for such an outstanding event, their outstanding performance and leadership, and I offer my congratulations to each of those guests in Reno who decided to take the important step of bringing financial freedom into their own control, destiny into their own hands in as much as that is possible, by engaging in the opportunity within Univera.

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What CEOs (leaders) can learn from Paul Newman

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I just returned from the Gold/Platinum Xpand your Business seminar up at Alderbrook this past weekend where my wife and I attended the concluding dinner and had a fantastic time with all those present.

While reading various emails this afternoon, I ran across a Wall Street Journal article sent to me a few weeks ago, which I’m posting below. In the spirit of the weekend of learning and leadership, and of our quest for each of us to build upon our talents and contributions as leaders, I wanted to share the article below about — of all people — Paul Newman.

It’s entitled “What CEOs Can Learn…” but I think we can all agree that it would easily extend beyond CEOs — though in these times, it’s particularly poignant for those at the top.

What CEOs Can Learn From Paul Newman

History will certainly remember Paul Newman as an icon of modern cinema. But he was far more than just an actor. Paul was a gentleman in the truest sense of the word who embodied the American ideals of extraordinary integrity, a tireless work ethic, a commitment to family, and a deep sense of responsibility to the people who made his success possible.

Paul used to joke that he had to keep making movies to support all of his philanthropic projects — and that wasn’t too far from the truth. To millions he’s perhaps better known as the face of Newman’s Own food products than he is for his superb performances in “The Hustler,” “Cool Hand Luke,” “The Verdict” and scores of other films.

Click here to read the full article.

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980 emails, 17 Wall Street Journals, three Business Weeks, one movie, a few chapters of “In Defense of Food” and 24 hours later…

dscn2358_2…I landed in Singapore, Malaysia.

Here, I will be spending the next four days at the International Direct Selling Association to network and spend time with other Direct Selling colleagues while also getting a “State of the Business” perspective at this event.

Landing last night around midnight, I forced myself to sleep — despite being antsy — so that I could quickly condition myself to the local time zone. Today’s the check-in day and gave me a morning of free time before some of the Council meetings this afternoon.

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I awoke early to hit a few local attractions, which included a Mosque, Buddhist Temple, a visit in Chinatown, a contemplative and relaxing demonstration on the proper presentation and enjoyment of fine teas, and the consumption of some “street meat”: a 5″ x 5″ slab of pounded and flattened pork that’s grilled and is both disturbing and delicious (definitely not on the South Beach diet). Self portrait below.

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It used to be that I didn’t allow time for any exploration on travels, but now when I hit the road I make sure — if in a unique city — to spend a little bit of time learning something new or enjoying the culture. It not only makes the trip more worthwhile, but I always find I learn something or meet someone new that adds to my experience and perspectives in life, personally and professionally.

For example…

As I was walking back from Chinatown to my hotel, I came upon a gorgeous old wooden building, probably hundreds of years old, that had “Forever Living” written on the side of it.

Intrigued, I stopped by and perused their lobby (more like a courtyard with flowing bamboo lining the open ceilings) and checked out their Company store. After a few more minutes, I decided to try to meet — unannounced — with the GM of Singapore if he/she happened to be in the office.

So I approached the man at the front desk, flashing a business card and a 30-second bio and explanation of my visit, and ten minutes later I was wisked off to a delightful meeting with the General Manager of the Singapore market for Forever Living. Worldwide, Forever Living is a pretty big MLM; they must be in 25-35 countries, and most of their products are aloe-based. They’ve had a good run but have likely hit their peak by now given their product mix and market penetration. But I still admire the Company, and they have done a nice job of building a business.

I asked my new friend Jeffrey his top priorities on succeeding in Malaysia. His response was simple: 1. Good products. 2. Good business/comp plan. 3. Sustainability.

I was a little surprised to hear him reference the sustainability piece, but in his words “people in every market, even in Asia, are a little skeptical at first about MLM; so they need to know the Company is going to be around and is sustainable”.

Really, it’s not that much different than in our market.

The photo below is of me and Jeffrey. I am extremely glad the photographer made careful effort to include both the full length of our legs and shoes, in order to eliminate the portion above which consisted of ancient and intricate woodcarvings that go back centuries from mainland China that canvass the background. I know, maybe I should give the guy a break as he was doing me a favor…but c’mon, how hard is it? We’re creating a society of poor-picture-takers. 🙂

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Clearly, there are some marked differences in Asia vs. North America, both in business practices as well as culture, but as we spoke we laughed about the fact that many more similarities exist than differences. We spent a good amount of time together, and it’s one of the cool highlights from exploring (and knocking on a few doors), as I just happened to meet him as a result of walking by their offices after a morning stroll.

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In my prior post I mention intentionally not blogging about the financial markets and the negativity of the news in the States. I partly expected to be removed from this, apart from my monitoring of domestic online news sources. Yet, five hours after my head hit the pillow, I awoke with sleepy eyes and pulled the paper out from under my front door with the glaring headline here that was screaming louder than the an alarm clock — and the news was every bit as sobering as it is back home.

Financial turmoil in the world markets.

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But with so much chaos going on the financial markets, it gives me even greater confidence in this industry, but particularly in our Company.

I don’t know what the future holds. Most reports expect that this is going to be pretty ugly for quite a while. And as I have said for months, it’s not just North America that’s going to feel the brunt since the world economies are so intertwined. As you see from my local newspaper headlines, it demonstrates significant destruction in the financial markets in MANY countries.

So if I were a normal consumer (which I generally am) what would I do with all this information?

These are the five things I would do immediately:

1. I wouldn’t panic and needlessly stress. HOWEVER, I WOULD take some proactive action to proactive (or responsively) manage in this new financial order. Fear that leads to paralysis is bad. Fear that leads to panic is bad. Fear that drives proactive solutions and improvements can be really constructive and beneficial.

2. I would reassess my portfolio, but I wouldn’t make any significant moves if you’re in it for the long haul. Study after study proves you can’t time the market. Just ask some of those hot shots from Wall Street how brilliant they are at market timing right now.

3. If you have a long time horizon, I would continue to invest in the market — particularly by buying no load index funds (or something along those lines with your broker) and follow the principle called “Dollar Cost Averaging”, which increases your opportunity for upside and buying discounted stocks while also reducing your risk.

4. I would reassess and eliminate unnecessary spending. Yet I’d also invest the same OR EVEN MORE resources towards healthcare and wellness.

This whole scenario becomes a heck of a lot more challenging if you can’t work due to illness, or if you’re not performing at your peak potential. The money spent to keep you performing at your best is nothing compared to the alternative.

5. Finally, I would, without question, develop an alternative and secondary (or replace a primary if that’s your core need) income stream in the direct selling industry.

As an Executive in Univera, I can’t personally reach out and engage in Direct Selling as an Associate for obvious reasons. So I’ve put my full confidence, time, and energy towards this industry and our Company so that I can do my part working on the inside. Ultimately, millions of others will have the privilege, the opportunity, and the freedom of building a Univera business.

I think there’s been a bit of a delayed reaction for people getting to step number five within North America. Across the entire Direct Selling industry, current trends show recruiting is flat for the year (though in Univera, our recruiting is up for the year).

Given the speed and devastation of the markets, home equities, employment, and even politics, I think people are shocked. Disappointed. Frustrated. And Jaded. So much so that they’re a little paralyzed.

But, soon, people will need to take some immediate action.

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Like I said, if they don’t do it as a result of desire, they’ll do it out of need.

Which, of course, brings us back to Univera. The privilege and opportunity we have is sacred, which is to utilize the greatness of this industry — yet to do it in an “Un-MLM” way, in a way that has not exactly been done before while still not reinventing the wheel. It’s a delicate balance.

Challenges happen to any company and any industry. And seeing the absolute devastation and the INABILITY for some of the worlds best financial firms to recover has given me even greater confidence in Univera.

We will go through challenges, yet we’ll survive and win as a team. And we can do this as a result of commitment, resources, talent, and a legitimate business structure with resources that run quite deep from the ECONET and Bill Lee.

So was it sobering to read the news this morning, halfway across the world, and hear of the same chaos brewing this side of the Earth? Yeah, it was. But imagine if you heard this news and you didn’t know of an outlet or solution? Imagine if you COULDN’T imagine how to take that next step, make the payment, keep the house, feed the kids, pay for school, continue the mortgage.

Which is why I feel such a strong responsibility to share Univera with others across North America — someday the world — and to do it in a way that doesn’t just bring physical and financial success, but does it in a way that’s relevant and sustainable to business. And to do it while creating a culture of respect, integrity, and listening — the foundational principles of Servant Leadership, graciously initiated by our late Founder Yun Ho Lee, and carried forward by Bill himself and countless thousands of ECONETIANS — employees and Associates — across the world.

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your physician. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all day. What is the most significant data you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good soundness, its doubtless important for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft can kill the mood in bedroom.

M—– J-.’s Kickin’ it with us on the Road Tour!

By intention, I’ve not blogged about the financial markets this week.
Maybe next week, but the news is evident enough. Once you incorporate partisan politics and media sensationalization, it gets a bit overdrawn despite it being among the most critical issues on the mind of not just America but most countries across the World.
So while I love my Wall Street Journal, this week I took a day off and stuck just to ABCNews.com highlights. And, today, I’m blogging about something I’m REALLY excited about.
What we do know about the financial news is that MORE THAN EVER people are seeking an opportunity. Falling equity on homes, difficulty in obtaining credit, increasing inflation, an unemployment number of 6% and expected to rise, among other factors all contributes to more people looking for more opportunities to make a secondary (or replace a primary) income. But, I promised myself I wouldn’t talk about the financial news today.
We KNOW these Univera products change peoples lives. I couldn’t live without my Xtra, Aloe Gold, RegeniFREE, among others. And, we have seen firsthand the business opportunity change lives as well, including those who at one point said “I would NEVER get involved in the direct selling environment!”. It’s incredible to share the opportunity with others and to see the transformation. Which is why Regan, Stephen, and I are so excited to go on the upcoming Road Tour across North America the last half of October.
And as if there weren’t enough reasons to bring a lot of guests to one of the cities we’re visiting across North America, we just announced one more. It’s a special guest, and you’ll have to watch the below video to find out exactly who it is. There are also a few links below the video that you’ll probably want to check out as well.
What we know about people who check out Univera is this: they want compelling information and experiences they can act upon, they want to get engaged, they seek purpose and meaning, they desire physical and financial renewal–freedom–and if we can deliver in that experience some fun and humor along the way it simply makes it all the more worthwhile and engaging.
Enjoy, and I’ll see you on the road!

You can check out the latest schedule with city locations by clicking here
And you can check out some clips of our special guests prior performances by clicking here

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your physician. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all period. What is the most significant information you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good health, its doubtless important for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft can kill the mood in bedroom.