Ep 324 – Exposing Multi-Level Marketing – aka MLM – Scams with Award-Winning Host of “The Dream” Podcast and Author of “Selling The Dream,” Jane Marie

March 13, 2024


MLM company scams are everywhere. So, just what is an MLM company? Better known as multi-level marketing companies, MLMs are businesses that involve selling products to family and friends while recruiting other people to do the same (think: Avon, Doterra, Arbonne, Rodan and Fields, and more). Except that only 1% of people who join an MLM company will actually turn a profit.

Today, we’re exploring the dark side of MLMs with Peabody and Emmy Award–winning journalist and author, Jane Marie. Jane Marie is the former producer of This American Life and most recently, Michelle Obama’s “The Light” podcast. As host of The Dream podcast, Jane Marie joins us to chat about her debut book, Selling The Dream The Billion-Dollar Industry Bankrupting Americans, a must-read exposé on the deceptive truths behind MLMs.

PS – Be sure to check out Jane Marie’s latest podcast called “Finally a Show!” 

In this episode, you’ll hear:

  • Are MLMs actually pyramid schemes? 
  • What it *really* takes to get that fancy car from an MLM company
  • How some MLM participants are having to seek out “deprogramming” therapy
  • Why so many people don’t report their experiences of getting scammed by an MLM company
  • The popular brand at Sephora that is a low-key MLM
  • Plus! In an impromptu role play, Jane Marie tries to convince Jill to join an MLM company

Get social with us and let us know what you think of the episode! Find us on Instagram, Tiktok, Twitter. Join our private Facebook group, or give us a call and leave us a voicemail at 1-844-227-0302.

Mentioned In This Episode

*Disclaimer: Unless otherwise stated, all products reviewed are gratis media samples submitted for editorial consideration.*

When You Support Our Sponsors, You Support the Creation of Breaking Beauty Podcast! 

The Ouai
Frizz-free up your schedule with OUAI. Go to TheOuai.com and enter promo code BEAUTY15 for 15% off any product. 

Macys
Join Macy’s and Girls Inc. to empower a new generation of leaders now during Women’s History Month. Throughout March, you can help fund STEM and college & career readiness programming for girls when you donate online to Girls Inc., or round up your purchase. Learn more & celebrate the creative power of women now and all year round at macys.com/purpose.

 

Like this week’s episode? Check Out Similar Episodes From our Back Catalog!

Ep 198 – Dr. Shereene Idriss, AKA #PillowTalkDerm Serving The Real Tea On Skin Care Scams

Ep 280 – From Dog Attack to Starring in Vogue, Brooklinn Khoury’s Incredible Real-Life Journey

Ep 268 – From Deconstructing “Ugly” to “Peak Tweak,” This Women’s Day We’re Exploring Beauty Standards with Beauty Journalists Anita Bhagwandas and Charisse Kenion