A diet containing a good mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fats can help cancer patients deal with treatment side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
By Melanie Winderlich
Medically reviewed by Pat F. Bass III, MD, MPH
The side effects of cancer treatment sometimes seem as daunting as the condition itself. Cancer patients can experience pain, fatigue, depression, and anemia, depending on the type of cancer, the type of treatment, and other factors.
Many cancer treatment side effects have a connection with eating — nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, constipation, trouble with chewing or swallowing, change in sense of taste — which makes getting the right nutrition a challenging aspect of ongoing cancer treatment.
A cancer patient has to be extremely conscious of his diet and pay attention to his body's level of tolerance for certain foods. Unlike standard nutritional guides and pyramids, cancer diet recommendations are slightly different to accommodate the special needs of cancer patients.
Dietary Needs During Cancer Treatment
Gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea or vomiting are common when undergoing a cancer treatment like chemotherapy.
Because cancer patients might have problems with appetite or changes in their sense of taste or smell, they may have issues maintaining a healthy weight. Many cancer patients should focus on:
Protein-dense foods. Egg whites, lean meats, dairy products, and beans are full of protein, which allows the body to function properly and repair itself. Since chemotherapy and radiation can take a heavy toll on cells, it's important to maintain a healthy weight and get enough protein.
Calorie-dense foods. Healthy sources of carbohydrates, like grains, fruits and vegetables, and lentils, as well as fats, like butter, oils, and nuts, keep up energy levels with extra calories. Age, gender, and weight affect how many calories patients require.
Water and fluids. Clear liquids, like water, broth, and sports drinks, as well as full-liquid foods, like pureed vegetables, milk, and liquid meal replacements, can help keep a cancer patient’s system healthy. Liquids are especially important dietary items since diarrhea and vomiting can cause dehydration. Doctors recommend liquid serving sizes based on individual needs.
Vitamins and minerals. Vitamins and minerals help normalize metabolism and maintain growth. Vitamin A, found in eggs, liver, and fortified milk, helps prevent infection and promotes healthy tissue; vitamin D, acquired through sunlight, dairy products, and fish, helps strengthen bones; and vitamin C, found in citrus and green leafy vegetables, helps heal and repair cells, tissue, and wounds. It's important to note that cancer patients, like everyone else, should try to meet their recommended intake of vitamins and minerals by eating enough healthy foods each day. Ask your doctor before taking any supplements. A variety of foods. The senses of taste and smell can change during cancer treatment, so it's important to keep a variety of foods in the house. What was once your favorite food may now make you sick to your stomach one day and top your favorite foods' column the next day. Since no one food provides every required nutrient, eating a variety of foods can help.
Remember that dietary recommendations depend on the type of cancer and treatment. For example, weight gain is somewhat common with breast, prostate, and ovarian cancer treatment, so these patients wouldn't want to add fat to their diets. Talk to your doctor about appetite and weight changes, which may be a result of taking an anticancer medication.
Eating Tips for Cancer Patients
Remember to think small: Eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day, as opposed to three large meals, may reduce the likelihood of nausea and vomiting. Also, says Cynthia Thomson, RD, PhD, associate professor of nutrition at the University of Arizona in Tucson and member of the Arizona Cancer Center, avoid food with strong smells can help with nausea. "Eat more cold foods, for example, and avoid fish and sulfur-containing vegetables," she says.
Helpful sources of nutrition during times when side effects are severe include meal-replacement liquids and powders. These soft, nutrient-dense foods offer lots of protein, calories, and vitamins and are easily transportable, and can help patients maintain a healthy diet, regardless of symptoms like mouth sores or dental pain.
Some cancer patients may not have problems maintaining a healthy diet during treatment. And if side effects, like nausea, randomly pop up, there are highly effective medications, called antiemetics, to control these issues.
The nutritional needs and wants of cancer patients can be deeply affected by cancer treatment and the stress of a cancer diagnosis. Following a diet recommended by their doctors and registered dieticians will help keep their minds and bodies strong on the long road to recovery.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Friday, November 13, 2009
Well-known cookbook writer is now an "Energizer bunny" promoting natural cosmetics
'FauxTox' lady shares secret
Well-known cookbook writer is now an "Energizer bunny" promoting natural cosmetics
By Sarah Petrescu, Times Colonist
September 15, 2009
Patricia Haakonson delivers her pitch to eight sharp-witted, mature women armed with facecloths and wine glasses and seated around a dining room table.
"I'm going to show you a natural, safe alternative to Botox that works," she says.
Wide-eyed silence is followed by laughter all around.
"It does," she pleads.
One woman pipes in: "Well, if you're going to say Preparation H -- been there, done that."
The table of women cracks up all over again.
Haakonson, 59, sells beauty and health products for Arbonne, a fast-growing company that operates by network marketing and direct sales, similar to Tupperware and Mary Kay.
The evening's "FauxTox" party introduces Arbonne's popular anti-aging line and serves to train Haakonson's new sales protégé, Marilyn Rook, a retired chief operating officer of the Vancouver Island Health Authority.
"We met playing golf and I just knew she'd be fabulous," Haakonson told me earlier in the day at her home, which overlooks the Royal Oak Golf Club.
She should know. In the nearly three years Haakonson has sold Arbonne products, she has acquired a team of 20 saleswomen, been named a regional vice-president, and received a diamond-studded watch and a white Mercedes-Benz convertible.
"It's based on sales volume," she says.
Haakonson's success might have come from old-school salesmanship but her story is part of growing trend in home-based businesses and network marketing, especially as recession layoffs and early retirements rise.
More than 88 per cent of the 600,000 direct sellers in Canada are women, according to the Direct Sellers Association of Canada, and companies like Avon, Mary Kay and Tupperware are actively recruiting.
"You get out of it what you put into it," says Haakonson, who estimates she makes up to $6,000 a month, working 25 to 40 hours a week -- the higher end of the wide range in income from selling Arbonne products.
"I don't really need the money. But I'm very passionate about what I do," she says.
Haakonson retired from 25 years as an executive manager with the provincial and federal governments at the age of 49. During that first year she lost 44 lbs. on a low-carbohydrate diet and wrote a lifestyle book with her husband Harv, a retired physician, about the experience.
A best-selling cookbook followed and before they knew it, the Haakonsons had spent a year travelling across Canada and the United States in their motor home to promote the books.
"I cooked on every breakfast television show in Canada," Haakonson said. Harv appeared on Good Morning America.
Haakonson was introduced to Arbonne after a Bikram yoga class in Palm Springs, while on vacation about three years ago.
"A tiny woman who could bend like a pretzel asked me to try it. My skin was so soft afterwards I said, 'Where do I get it?' "
This is where the business opportunity comes in.
Haakonson was given three options: To buy the cream at retail cost, "Which I never recommend," she says, to pay a membership fee and receive a discount, or to join the sales team.
"I felt compelled to tell friends and family all about it so I've never looked back," she says about taking the latter choice. "My little lines and wrinkles didn't completely disappear but the effects on my skin have been incredible."
Haakonson says she's tried every anti-aging cream on the market. "I draw the line at injecting botulism into my skin. That's just too extreme."
The Arbonne products appeal to her because of their use of natural and non-toxic ingredients.
"Educating women about their health and healthy products is so important to me," she says, surrounded by mini-displays of Arbonne products, from creams and perfume to vitamins and makeup.
"If I won millions of dollars in the lottery tomorrow I wouldn't stop doing this -- it's too much fun and I'm like the Energizer Bunny just talking about it."
Well-known cookbook writer is now an "Energizer bunny" promoting natural cosmetics
By Sarah Petrescu, Times Colonist
September 15, 2009
Patricia Haakonson delivers her pitch to eight sharp-witted, mature women armed with facecloths and wine glasses and seated around a dining room table.
"I'm going to show you a natural, safe alternative to Botox that works," she says.
Wide-eyed silence is followed by laughter all around.
"It does," she pleads.
One woman pipes in: "Well, if you're going to say Preparation H -- been there, done that."
The table of women cracks up all over again.
Haakonson, 59, sells beauty and health products for Arbonne, a fast-growing company that operates by network marketing and direct sales, similar to Tupperware and Mary Kay.
The evening's "FauxTox" party introduces Arbonne's popular anti-aging line and serves to train Haakonson's new sales protégé, Marilyn Rook, a retired chief operating officer of the Vancouver Island Health Authority.
"We met playing golf and I just knew she'd be fabulous," Haakonson told me earlier in the day at her home, which overlooks the Royal Oak Golf Club.
She should know. In the nearly three years Haakonson has sold Arbonne products, she has acquired a team of 20 saleswomen, been named a regional vice-president, and received a diamond-studded watch and a white Mercedes-Benz convertible.
"It's based on sales volume," she says.
Haakonson's success might have come from old-school salesmanship but her story is part of growing trend in home-based businesses and network marketing, especially as recession layoffs and early retirements rise.
More than 88 per cent of the 600,000 direct sellers in Canada are women, according to the Direct Sellers Association of Canada, and companies like Avon, Mary Kay and Tupperware are actively recruiting.
"You get out of it what you put into it," says Haakonson, who estimates she makes up to $6,000 a month, working 25 to 40 hours a week -- the higher end of the wide range in income from selling Arbonne products.
"I don't really need the money. But I'm very passionate about what I do," she says.
Haakonson retired from 25 years as an executive manager with the provincial and federal governments at the age of 49. During that first year she lost 44 lbs. on a low-carbohydrate diet and wrote a lifestyle book with her husband Harv, a retired physician, about the experience.
A best-selling cookbook followed and before they knew it, the Haakonsons had spent a year travelling across Canada and the United States in their motor home to promote the books.
"I cooked on every breakfast television show in Canada," Haakonson said. Harv appeared on Good Morning America.
Haakonson was introduced to Arbonne after a Bikram yoga class in Palm Springs, while on vacation about three years ago.
"A tiny woman who could bend like a pretzel asked me to try it. My skin was so soft afterwards I said, 'Where do I get it?' "
This is where the business opportunity comes in.
Haakonson was given three options: To buy the cream at retail cost, "Which I never recommend," she says, to pay a membership fee and receive a discount, or to join the sales team.
"I felt compelled to tell friends and family all about it so I've never looked back," she says about taking the latter choice. "My little lines and wrinkles didn't completely disappear but the effects on my skin have been incredible."
Haakonson says she's tried every anti-aging cream on the market. "I draw the line at injecting botulism into my skin. That's just too extreme."
The Arbonne products appeal to her because of their use of natural and non-toxic ingredients.
"Educating women about their health and healthy products is so important to me," she says, surrounded by mini-displays of Arbonne products, from creams and perfume to vitamins and makeup.
"If I won millions of dollars in the lottery tomorrow I wouldn't stop doing this -- it's too much fun and I'm like the Energizer Bunny just talking about it."
Donna Johnson Arbonne's First NVP
Spirit Wings Kids, Inc.
Donna Johnson: Reaching Up by Reaching Out
By Josephine Gross, Ph.D.
Sunday November 1, 2009
A former athlete and swimming coach, Donna Johnson has been a full-time network
marketing leader for thirty-two years. She has been a top earner in her company for
the past twenty-two years and has a vibrantly active organization that spans several
countries. Donna is passionate about helping others create what she calls 3-D success: 1)making a difference in the world; 2) creating a balanced life; 3)enjoying financial peace. To fulfill the “making a difference” part of her vision, she created Spirit Wings Kids, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming and empowering children and their families through education, financial assistance, resources, referrals and role modeling for living a life of contribution. “The foundation offers help in several different ways,” says Donna, “because although
money may be necessary to help families through times of crisis, it usually plays only a limited role. Our company president, Rita Davenport, loves to say, ‘If money can fix it, it isn’t a problem.’ Life’s real problems require much more than just financial assistance; they require a focus on things like character, behavior and mindset.”
SpiritWings.com includes a Tot Spot, Kids Korner, Teen Scene, Young Adult Studio
and Empowered Families department, offering ongoing resources and opportunities
for everyone to give and receive, and pay it forward on a global scale. When Donna joined her current network marketing company over two decades ago, she had already
been in the business for ten years and was discovering the true freedom that comes with being an independent business owner. “I absolutely love having a free life,” she says. “I love working when I want to—even working hard—but I don’t like structure: I don’t like bosses, alarm clocks or cubicles. If I want to make my calls outside by the pool, I want to be able to do that.”
Since Donna’s love of freedom was the driving force behind her business, when it came time to baptize her new organization, she chose the name Spirit Wings. “The name goes back to a song by Joni Eareckson Tada,” Donna explains. “Joni had an amazing story: she was an athlete who had a diving accident that made her quadriplegic. She became an artist, using a paint brush with her teeth, and a singer. She wrote a beautiful song that goes, ‘Spirit wings, soar above all the earth-bound things…’ The song resonated with me and that’s how Spirit Wings was born. Our symbol is the eagle, which represents the freedom to fly.”
In 2008, Donna decided to take Spirit Wings a step further and created the Spirit Wings Kids Charity. “There are two parts to Spirit Wings Kids,” says Donna. “The first part came out of a very personal and trying family experience. Six years ago, my stepdaughter Emily was diagnosed with a life threatening eating disorder. Costly treatments seemed to be her only hope for recovery. “We spent several years and over half a million dollars trying to find the right treatment—none of it covered by insurance. What struck me was that had I not had the financial resources to be able to participate in the costs, she might not be alive today. This inspired me to start a foundation for families in need.” Donna had always been a giver who believed in
tithing, but this experience fueled her desire to create a nonprofit organization to support children.
Spirit Wings Kids, however, is not only for people who seek funding. “Everybody who has applied for funding has received it,” says Donna, “and we’ve been excited about that. But we are also a resource for help besides financial support. In our process with Emily, we discovered that her treatment helped to a point, but it was only part of her recovery. In fact, the defining piece to the healing process was learning to live a life of independence and contribution. When the mind shifts its focus to serving and caring for others with compassion and generosity, healing naturally occurs! “Emily kept being released from treatment centers that could not help her, the last one of which charged $2,200 a day. I finally reached out to my friend Mark Fournier, because of his expertise in empowering children, teens and families in difficulty. Mark stepped in and a few weeks later he had Emily turned around, just by working through some self-esteem issues and basic life skills that traditional treatments didn’t address. “We learned that awareness is a big part of any recovery process, so we decided to provide resources for people to grow their understanding of family dynamics, in addition to simply providing funding.”
Team Involvement
The second part of the Spirit Wings Kids Found-ation is its global outreach program.
“At first the people who applied for funding were all in the United States,” says
Donna, “mainly families with children who had health issues and needed support. But
I always wanted to do something on a global scale. I also believe that when someone
receives funding and help, one of the best ways for them to continue to heal is to pay it forward. I wanted to create some kind of dynamic to the Spirit Wings Kids
Foundation that would allow everyone to give on an ongoing basis.” In her search to make this happen, Donna was introduced to Streams of Mercy, an organization devoted to loving and supporting the orphans of the world. “Together with my network marketing organization, we are funding several orphanages around the world right now,” she says. “At all our trainings, we talk about the needs of the orphanages and how we can support them. “For instance, at our Green Bay leadership retreat in August, I shared my story about the orphanages I visited in India and showed video clips of my trip. I then told my group, ‘This is not a heavy solicitation; I just would like you to think about participating. My goal for this retreat is to have ten people pledge $75 a month. Seven hundred fifty dollars a month supports an entire orphanage, and I’ve already picked one out in Africa.’ “And for every orphanage we support through donations from our trainings,” she adds, “I match the $750 so we can actually fund two orphanages.” Sure enough, at the Green Bay event, ten people signed up for $75 a month. They can further participate by going online to watch the progress, and they can even go to Africa and visit the orphanage. Donna will be going there in May 2010 with her twin teenage daughters.
With the matched funds from the Green Bay event, she will be supporting an additional orphanage, in Jamaica. “I’ve always had a passion for the Jamaican people,” says Donna. “I’ve had great opportunities to help them, including sponsoring a little boy there when he was nine. Now, he’s twenty-seven and he helps us run Bananas Garden, our Eco Bed and Breakfast in Negril. I’m very excited to be able to support an orphanage on the island.” Trip to India Donna went to India in March because she wanted an opportunity to visit some of the orphanages she had been funding. The Oscar-winning Slumdog Millionaire showed the world the corruption that goes on there, and she wanted to see the situation firsthand. Fortunately, Streams of Mercy not only supports orphanages that are doing things right, it also helps expose those that are corrupt. “Being in India was life-changing,” says Donna. “It was definitely an assault on the senses. There are tons of people everywhere and you can barely see the sun because of the pollution. The noise level was mind-blowing, with horns honking at all hours of the night. I came back with a new appreciation for the blessings in our country.”
One of the most significant events during her trip occurred because Donna traveled
with a suitcase her twins had used the previous Christmas. Halfway through her trip,
she reached into a side pocket and pulled out a Christmas card her girls had received. There was $140 cash inside they had forgotten about. “I remember scrounging for pennies in my house when the ice cream man would come around” says Donna, “and here my girls get $140 and don’t even remember it.” Donna’s first thought was to email her daughters and tell them she found their money. But then she thought, “Wait a minute, this is a gift from God. I really wanted them here with me, but they couldn’t come. However, now I have their money.” Instead of sending the money back, Donna decided to put it to work and made a little video clip showing how far $140 went in India. It was amazing to see. “It was an eye-opener for my girls,” she says, “because they can spend that amount on a pair of jeans. After seeing just how far that money went in India, they became so much more careful with their finances. Now they are talking about what they can do to help children in need. They ask me, ‘Mom, if we got this dress on sale, what could we do to help someone?’ “I believe my video clip has also inspired people who are struggling financially and
think, ‘Gosh, I can’t fund an orphanage.’ It shows that even a little bit goes far for these orphanages around the world. In the U.S. we have a hard time understanding
that. “On the video I explain how we reach out so our blessings can come to us. They then flow through us and we reach out again to give back to others. It could be through encouragement, coaching or helping someone succeed; it also could be through
volunteering and financial giving. We can give back in so many ways.”
The Spirit of Giving
Donna believes the best way to teach giving is by example. In her talks, she also
uses the image of an open hand. “If you visualize an outstretched hand,” she says, “you’ve got five fingers pointing out to other people. When people feel stressed or financially impaired, they start to close down and pull in. If you close your hand into a fist, all five fingers are pointing back at you, and you are now cut off from the flow of giving and receiving. “The blessings we receive aren’t ours, they’re ours to share. There’s no U-Haul at the end of a hearse. If we share our blessings with others, they multiply five- or tenfold.” Donna’s goal is to grow awareness around Spirit Wings Kids and help people realize the many ways they can give in addition to financial contributions. She wants to expose people to what goes on in the orphanages and expand her global support. “I plan to take a trip every year, like my trips to India this year and to Africa next year. I want to be able to take my children and grandchildren and show them another side of reality, because we live in a very materialistic society. I want them to see a simpler way to live.
“Many of us today are making some assessments, changing purchasing behaviors and
becoming more accountable for how we’ve lived. It’s too easy to blame the banks for
creating loans that people perhaps had no business taking out in the first place. The
problem is not just with the bank approving a $500,000 loan when you can only afford a $300,000 home. This is about personal accountability as well, and the responsibility of living within your means. “When you’re prudent with your finances and live within your means, you can give more. When I started earning six figures a month, I waited a very long time before I purchased my current home in Arizona. My home in Wisconsin is a simple log cabin on a lake. I usually have a little retreat there after my events for my leaders, and when they walk in, they say, ‘Oh my, you’re a real person!’ This is a simple, comfy home—nothing palatial.“I have raised children who have taken to the philosophy of voluntary simplicity. For instance, my son heads up TheDraw.org, a regenerative land based community that teaches sustainable living and permaculture design. People admire me for my business accomplishments, but to see my accomplishments in my children is my greatest source of pride—to know that they are doing amazing things in this world and leaving a legacy that will continue for generations.”
Donna Johnson: Reaching Up by Reaching Out
By Josephine Gross, Ph.D.
Sunday November 1, 2009
A former athlete and swimming coach, Donna Johnson has been a full-time network
marketing leader for thirty-two years. She has been a top earner in her company for
the past twenty-two years and has a vibrantly active organization that spans several
countries. Donna is passionate about helping others create what she calls 3-D success: 1)making a difference in the world; 2) creating a balanced life; 3)enjoying financial peace. To fulfill the “making a difference” part of her vision, she created Spirit Wings Kids, Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming and empowering children and their families through education, financial assistance, resources, referrals and role modeling for living a life of contribution. “The foundation offers help in several different ways,” says Donna, “because although
money may be necessary to help families through times of crisis, it usually plays only a limited role. Our company president, Rita Davenport, loves to say, ‘If money can fix it, it isn’t a problem.’ Life’s real problems require much more than just financial assistance; they require a focus on things like character, behavior and mindset.”
SpiritWings.com includes a Tot Spot, Kids Korner, Teen Scene, Young Adult Studio
and Empowered Families department, offering ongoing resources and opportunities
for everyone to give and receive, and pay it forward on a global scale. When Donna joined her current network marketing company over two decades ago, she had already
been in the business for ten years and was discovering the true freedom that comes with being an independent business owner. “I absolutely love having a free life,” she says. “I love working when I want to—even working hard—but I don’t like structure: I don’t like bosses, alarm clocks or cubicles. If I want to make my calls outside by the pool, I want to be able to do that.”
Since Donna’s love of freedom was the driving force behind her business, when it came time to baptize her new organization, she chose the name Spirit Wings. “The name goes back to a song by Joni Eareckson Tada,” Donna explains. “Joni had an amazing story: she was an athlete who had a diving accident that made her quadriplegic. She became an artist, using a paint brush with her teeth, and a singer. She wrote a beautiful song that goes, ‘Spirit wings, soar above all the earth-bound things…’ The song resonated with me and that’s how Spirit Wings was born. Our symbol is the eagle, which represents the freedom to fly.”
In 2008, Donna decided to take Spirit Wings a step further and created the Spirit Wings Kids Charity. “There are two parts to Spirit Wings Kids,” says Donna. “The first part came out of a very personal and trying family experience. Six years ago, my stepdaughter Emily was diagnosed with a life threatening eating disorder. Costly treatments seemed to be her only hope for recovery. “We spent several years and over half a million dollars trying to find the right treatment—none of it covered by insurance. What struck me was that had I not had the financial resources to be able to participate in the costs, she might not be alive today. This inspired me to start a foundation for families in need.” Donna had always been a giver who believed in
tithing, but this experience fueled her desire to create a nonprofit organization to support children.
Spirit Wings Kids, however, is not only for people who seek funding. “Everybody who has applied for funding has received it,” says Donna, “and we’ve been excited about that. But we are also a resource for help besides financial support. In our process with Emily, we discovered that her treatment helped to a point, but it was only part of her recovery. In fact, the defining piece to the healing process was learning to live a life of independence and contribution. When the mind shifts its focus to serving and caring for others with compassion and generosity, healing naturally occurs! “Emily kept being released from treatment centers that could not help her, the last one of which charged $2,200 a day. I finally reached out to my friend Mark Fournier, because of his expertise in empowering children, teens and families in difficulty. Mark stepped in and a few weeks later he had Emily turned around, just by working through some self-esteem issues and basic life skills that traditional treatments didn’t address. “We learned that awareness is a big part of any recovery process, so we decided to provide resources for people to grow their understanding of family dynamics, in addition to simply providing funding.”
Team Involvement
The second part of the Spirit Wings Kids Found-ation is its global outreach program.
“At first the people who applied for funding were all in the United States,” says
Donna, “mainly families with children who had health issues and needed support. But
I always wanted to do something on a global scale. I also believe that when someone
receives funding and help, one of the best ways for them to continue to heal is to pay it forward. I wanted to create some kind of dynamic to the Spirit Wings Kids
Foundation that would allow everyone to give on an ongoing basis.” In her search to make this happen, Donna was introduced to Streams of Mercy, an organization devoted to loving and supporting the orphans of the world. “Together with my network marketing organization, we are funding several orphanages around the world right now,” she says. “At all our trainings, we talk about the needs of the orphanages and how we can support them. “For instance, at our Green Bay leadership retreat in August, I shared my story about the orphanages I visited in India and showed video clips of my trip. I then told my group, ‘This is not a heavy solicitation; I just would like you to think about participating. My goal for this retreat is to have ten people pledge $75 a month. Seven hundred fifty dollars a month supports an entire orphanage, and I’ve already picked one out in Africa.’ “And for every orphanage we support through donations from our trainings,” she adds, “I match the $750 so we can actually fund two orphanages.” Sure enough, at the Green Bay event, ten people signed up for $75 a month. They can further participate by going online to watch the progress, and they can even go to Africa and visit the orphanage. Donna will be going there in May 2010 with her twin teenage daughters.
With the matched funds from the Green Bay event, she will be supporting an additional orphanage, in Jamaica. “I’ve always had a passion for the Jamaican people,” says Donna. “I’ve had great opportunities to help them, including sponsoring a little boy there when he was nine. Now, he’s twenty-seven and he helps us run Bananas Garden, our Eco Bed and Breakfast in Negril. I’m very excited to be able to support an orphanage on the island.” Trip to India Donna went to India in March because she wanted an opportunity to visit some of the orphanages she had been funding. The Oscar-winning Slumdog Millionaire showed the world the corruption that goes on there, and she wanted to see the situation firsthand. Fortunately, Streams of Mercy not only supports orphanages that are doing things right, it also helps expose those that are corrupt. “Being in India was life-changing,” says Donna. “It was definitely an assault on the senses. There are tons of people everywhere and you can barely see the sun because of the pollution. The noise level was mind-blowing, with horns honking at all hours of the night. I came back with a new appreciation for the blessings in our country.”
One of the most significant events during her trip occurred because Donna traveled
with a suitcase her twins had used the previous Christmas. Halfway through her trip,
she reached into a side pocket and pulled out a Christmas card her girls had received. There was $140 cash inside they had forgotten about. “I remember scrounging for pennies in my house when the ice cream man would come around” says Donna, “and here my girls get $140 and don’t even remember it.” Donna’s first thought was to email her daughters and tell them she found their money. But then she thought, “Wait a minute, this is a gift from God. I really wanted them here with me, but they couldn’t come. However, now I have their money.” Instead of sending the money back, Donna decided to put it to work and made a little video clip showing how far $140 went in India. It was amazing to see. “It was an eye-opener for my girls,” she says, “because they can spend that amount on a pair of jeans. After seeing just how far that money went in India, they became so much more careful with their finances. Now they are talking about what they can do to help children in need. They ask me, ‘Mom, if we got this dress on sale, what could we do to help someone?’ “I believe my video clip has also inspired people who are struggling financially and
think, ‘Gosh, I can’t fund an orphanage.’ It shows that even a little bit goes far for these orphanages around the world. In the U.S. we have a hard time understanding
that. “On the video I explain how we reach out so our blessings can come to us. They then flow through us and we reach out again to give back to others. It could be through encouragement, coaching or helping someone succeed; it also could be through
volunteering and financial giving. We can give back in so many ways.”
The Spirit of Giving
Donna believes the best way to teach giving is by example. In her talks, she also
uses the image of an open hand. “If you visualize an outstretched hand,” she says, “you’ve got five fingers pointing out to other people. When people feel stressed or financially impaired, they start to close down and pull in. If you close your hand into a fist, all five fingers are pointing back at you, and you are now cut off from the flow of giving and receiving. “The blessings we receive aren’t ours, they’re ours to share. There’s no U-Haul at the end of a hearse. If we share our blessings with others, they multiply five- or tenfold.” Donna’s goal is to grow awareness around Spirit Wings Kids and help people realize the many ways they can give in addition to financial contributions. She wants to expose people to what goes on in the orphanages and expand her global support. “I plan to take a trip every year, like my trips to India this year and to Africa next year. I want to be able to take my children and grandchildren and show them another side of reality, because we live in a very materialistic society. I want them to see a simpler way to live.
“Many of us today are making some assessments, changing purchasing behaviors and
becoming more accountable for how we’ve lived. It’s too easy to blame the banks for
creating loans that people perhaps had no business taking out in the first place. The
problem is not just with the bank approving a $500,000 loan when you can only afford a $300,000 home. This is about personal accountability as well, and the responsibility of living within your means. “When you’re prudent with your finances and live within your means, you can give more. When I started earning six figures a month, I waited a very long time before I purchased my current home in Arizona. My home in Wisconsin is a simple log cabin on a lake. I usually have a little retreat there after my events for my leaders, and when they walk in, they say, ‘Oh my, you’re a real person!’ This is a simple, comfy home—nothing palatial.“I have raised children who have taken to the philosophy of voluntary simplicity. For instance, my son heads up TheDraw.org, a regenerative land based community that teaches sustainable living and permaculture design. People admire me for my business accomplishments, but to see my accomplishments in my children is my greatest source of pride—to know that they are doing amazing things in this world and leaving a legacy that will continue for generations.”
Thursday, October 29, 2009
The Most Potent Super-Spice Antioxidant in Your Cabinets
We're talking about the super-spice Turmeric -- a powerful antioxidant with surprising health benefits
by Catherine Ebeling - RN, BSN & Mike Geary, Certified Nutrition Specialist
co-authors of the brand new Fat-Burning Kitchen program
You may have already known from my past newsletters that cinnamon is one of the most powerful antioxidants that you may have been overlooking in this world where acai, goji, other berries, and red wine are the only antioxidant sources that get major press.
However, have you ever eaten curry? That yellow color in curry is attributed to a spice called Turmeric, and it is one of the most powerful antioxidants you can consume with amazing health benefits.
Turmeric has been used in India for thousands of years as a dye, as a spice for dishes, and also in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine. Turmeric has some of the world’s most powerful fat-burning and healing qualities of any food or spice. It is a potent anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial substance.
What is turmeric?
Turmeric grows as a shrub in India and tropical parts of Asia. The roots are ground up to make turmeric. Its active ingredient is a substance called curcumin and it is bright yellow. This bright yellow spice has medicinal properties as well as adding its pungent color and taste to many delicious dishes.
Ayurvedic medicine has used this spice as a whole body cleanser, an aid for digestion, and in treatments for fevers, infections, liver and gall bladder problems and arthritis. It may even help to burn fat, and is also very effective as a preventative for heart disease, and Alzheimer’s.
The rich stores of antioxidants are very effective against the free radicals which contribute to premature aging, disease and cancer. Many natural practitioners actually recommend turmeric when a potent antioxidant is needed.
A digestion aid and fat-burning compound
Turmeric helps to digest fats by stimulating the flow of bile in the gall bladder and therefore is very effective as a digestive aid and fat-burning compound. Studies also show it is highly effective at reducing the inflammation from Irritable Bowel Syndrome, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease.
For the heart, it contains strong anti-platelet substances which help prevent the blood from clotting too easily, and so is very effective against heart attacks and strokes. In addition, homocysteine, a chemical component in the body, which is one of the primary predictors of heart attacks, is significantly lowered in the presence of curcumin.
The curcumin in turmeric also has been shown to lower and reduce the oxidation of plaque on the artery walls.
As an anti-inflammatory it has been used effectively for a treatment for all types of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and for joint pain.
Turmeric and cancer-risk reduction
Turmeric is a powerful weapon against cancer cells as well. Studies show that this super spice can actually prevent cancer tumors from growing and in those who already have cancer, turmeric slows the growth and spread of cancer. In a research study done with mice injected with cancer cells, the curcumin in turmeric was proven to be more than twice as effective as the cancer drug paclitaxel (Taxol).
The curcumin in turmeric is also highly effective when combined with the anti-oxidant quercetin (found in red onions, apples and cherries) against pre-cancerous polyps in the colon. Studies show that polyps were reduced by 60% and the average size of existing polyps were reduced by 50%.
Turmeric and Alzheimer's disease
One of the most exciting new studies has shown turmeric’s value against Alzheimer’s. Studies of the Indian population who have a high intake of turmeric in their curry dishes show a very low incidence of Alzheimer’s and dementia in the elderly.
Alzheimer’s victims have a buildup of a certain type of plaque in the brain and turmeric is highly effective at breaking down this plaque and protecting brain health.
Ways to get turmeric into your diet:
One way to get high concentrations of curcumin is to use the spice turmeric in some of your cooking and recipes.
Curry contains turmeric, but is usually a combination of several spices and you may not get as much turmeric as you would using pure turmeric. That's not to say there aren't benefits to curry too, since it is a blend of several spices.
Try to get creative and test using turmeric and/or curry on various foods so you can benefit as much as possible from this potent super-spice...
Turmeric is very yellow and can stain so be careful when using it. This spice doesn’t have to be used just for curries. It is delicious on sautéed apples, or steamed cauliflower, green beans and onions, or any of your favorite veggies.
Try it with raw cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli, or with celery, sweet pepper, jicama or radishes. Turmeric is also a great spice to complement recipes that feature lentils. Give salad dressings an orange-yellow hue and a little extra flavor by adding some turmeric powder to them.
Once you start using turmeric on a regular basis, it's fun to find new ways to use it in healthy recipes. My favorite way to use it is to add a healthy dose of it to egg salad. It adds a great flavor, and gives the egg salad a delicious rich yellow hue.
The best way to get turmeric daily and maximize your benefits
Let's face it... we know that spices like cinnamon and turmeric have incredible health benefits, but it's hard to remember to use them more than once or twice a week in recipes or on your typical foods.
So what I've found is the best way to make sure you get ample turmeric on a daily basis is to get turmeric capsules.
Turmeric can be purchased in capsules from a health food store, or you can make your own if you want to buy empty capsules and fill your own. The best turmeric is available in bulk in health food stores and is usually fresher and more pungent.
It is important to check with your physician if you are pregnant or nursing; it can be a uterine stimulant. If you have gallstones or bile obstructions or congestive heart failure, it is best to avoid using. And check with your doctor if you are on prescription drugs, as the drugs may interact with the turmeric.
by Catherine Ebeling - RN, BSN & Mike Geary, Certified Nutrition Specialist
co-authors of the brand new Fat-Burning Kitchen program
You may have already known from my past newsletters that cinnamon is one of the most powerful antioxidants that you may have been overlooking in this world where acai, goji, other berries, and red wine are the only antioxidant sources that get major press.
However, have you ever eaten curry? That yellow color in curry is attributed to a spice called Turmeric, and it is one of the most powerful antioxidants you can consume with amazing health benefits.
Turmeric has been used in India for thousands of years as a dye, as a spice for dishes, and also in traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine. Turmeric has some of the world’s most powerful fat-burning and healing qualities of any food or spice. It is a potent anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial substance.
What is turmeric?
Turmeric grows as a shrub in India and tropical parts of Asia. The roots are ground up to make turmeric. Its active ingredient is a substance called curcumin and it is bright yellow. This bright yellow spice has medicinal properties as well as adding its pungent color and taste to many delicious dishes.
Ayurvedic medicine has used this spice as a whole body cleanser, an aid for digestion, and in treatments for fevers, infections, liver and gall bladder problems and arthritis. It may even help to burn fat, and is also very effective as a preventative for heart disease, and Alzheimer’s.
The rich stores of antioxidants are very effective against the free radicals which contribute to premature aging, disease and cancer. Many natural practitioners actually recommend turmeric when a potent antioxidant is needed.
A digestion aid and fat-burning compound
Turmeric helps to digest fats by stimulating the flow of bile in the gall bladder and therefore is very effective as a digestive aid and fat-burning compound. Studies also show it is highly effective at reducing the inflammation from Irritable Bowel Syndrome, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn’s disease.
For the heart, it contains strong anti-platelet substances which help prevent the blood from clotting too easily, and so is very effective against heart attacks and strokes. In addition, homocysteine, a chemical component in the body, which is one of the primary predictors of heart attacks, is significantly lowered in the presence of curcumin.
The curcumin in turmeric also has been shown to lower and reduce the oxidation of plaque on the artery walls.
As an anti-inflammatory it has been used effectively for a treatment for all types of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and for joint pain.
Turmeric and cancer-risk reduction
Turmeric is a powerful weapon against cancer cells as well. Studies show that this super spice can actually prevent cancer tumors from growing and in those who already have cancer, turmeric slows the growth and spread of cancer. In a research study done with mice injected with cancer cells, the curcumin in turmeric was proven to be more than twice as effective as the cancer drug paclitaxel (Taxol).
The curcumin in turmeric is also highly effective when combined with the anti-oxidant quercetin (found in red onions, apples and cherries) against pre-cancerous polyps in the colon. Studies show that polyps were reduced by 60% and the average size of existing polyps were reduced by 50%.
Turmeric and Alzheimer's disease
One of the most exciting new studies has shown turmeric’s value against Alzheimer’s. Studies of the Indian population who have a high intake of turmeric in their curry dishes show a very low incidence of Alzheimer’s and dementia in the elderly.
Alzheimer’s victims have a buildup of a certain type of plaque in the brain and turmeric is highly effective at breaking down this plaque and protecting brain health.
Ways to get turmeric into your diet:
One way to get high concentrations of curcumin is to use the spice turmeric in some of your cooking and recipes.
Curry contains turmeric, but is usually a combination of several spices and you may not get as much turmeric as you would using pure turmeric. That's not to say there aren't benefits to curry too, since it is a blend of several spices.
Try to get creative and test using turmeric and/or curry on various foods so you can benefit as much as possible from this potent super-spice...
Turmeric is very yellow and can stain so be careful when using it. This spice doesn’t have to be used just for curries. It is delicious on sautéed apples, or steamed cauliflower, green beans and onions, or any of your favorite veggies.
Try it with raw cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli, or with celery, sweet pepper, jicama or radishes. Turmeric is also a great spice to complement recipes that feature lentils. Give salad dressings an orange-yellow hue and a little extra flavor by adding some turmeric powder to them.
Once you start using turmeric on a regular basis, it's fun to find new ways to use it in healthy recipes. My favorite way to use it is to add a healthy dose of it to egg salad. It adds a great flavor, and gives the egg salad a delicious rich yellow hue.
The best way to get turmeric daily and maximize your benefits
Let's face it... we know that spices like cinnamon and turmeric have incredible health benefits, but it's hard to remember to use them more than once or twice a week in recipes or on your typical foods.
So what I've found is the best way to make sure you get ample turmeric on a daily basis is to get turmeric capsules.
Turmeric can be purchased in capsules from a health food store, or you can make your own if you want to buy empty capsules and fill your own. The best turmeric is available in bulk in health food stores and is usually fresher and more pungent.
It is important to check with your physician if you are pregnant or nursing; it can be a uterine stimulant. If you have gallstones or bile obstructions or congestive heart failure, it is best to avoid using. And check with your doctor if you are on prescription drugs, as the drugs may interact with the turmeric.
Arbonne International Donates More Than $4.7 Million Dollars in Product to Operation Gratitude
Irvine, California, October 2009 - Arbonne International announced today that it has made a charitable donation of approximately 1.5 million personal care products...with a retail value of nearly $4.75 million dollars...to Operation Gratitude, a non-profit organization that sends care packages to the U.S. military. This donation is the largest Operation Gratitude has received from a corporate sponsor to date and follows a $642,000 donation Arbonne made to the organization in May. Arbonne, headquartered in Irvine, California, formulates botanically based, scientifically advanced beauty, health and wellness products, distributed through an international network of Independent Consultants.
"We're honored to donate Arbonne skin care products to Operation Gratitude to improve the lives of the brave men and women who are serving in the military overseas," said Rita Davenport, Arbonne President. "They fight to preserve our freedom and way of life and we owe them a debt of gratitude. We hope these products show our appreciation for their service to this country, and far beyond our borders. We know these products will help protect them from the harsh elements. Arbonne thanks you and salutes you!"
Operation Gratitude (www.OperationGratitude.com) is the 501 (c) (3) non-profit, volunteer organization that annually sends 100,000+ care packages filled with snacks, entertainment items and personal letters of appreciation addressed to individual U.S. Service Members deployed in hostile regions. The organization's mission is to lift morale and express to all Armed Forces the appreciation and support of the American people. Each package contains donated product valued at @$100 and costs the organization $11 to assemble and ship. By the end of 2009, Operation Gratitude will have shipped more than 500,000 packages to American Military deployed overseas.
MEDIA NOTE: Rita Davenport, Arbonne President, and Richard Estalella, Arbonne Sr. VP Operations, will make an official announcement about this donation at Operation Gratitude's "Kick-Off of the Operation Gratitude 2009 Holiday Drive" event this Saturday, October 24, between noon and 1 p.m. Pacific time, at the armory, located at: Operation Gratitude, 17330 Victory Blvd., Van Nuys, CA 91406
ABOUT ARBONNE
For three decades, Arbonne has been committed to enriching the lives of its Independent Consultants. Through unparalleled products, a strong, supportive community and a generous compensation plan, Arbonne provides the opportunity to achieve prosperity and freedom, and to live beautifully. The company creates personal care and wellness products that preserve and enhance the skin, body and mind. At Arbonne, beauty begins with premium botanical ingredients, an integrative approach to beauty and an unwavering commitment to pure, safe and beneficial products. Arbonne products are available exclusively through a network of independent distributors in the United States, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom. For more information, please visit www.arbonne.com.
"We're honored to donate Arbonne skin care products to Operation Gratitude to improve the lives of the brave men and women who are serving in the military overseas," said Rita Davenport, Arbonne President. "They fight to preserve our freedom and way of life and we owe them a debt of gratitude. We hope these products show our appreciation for their service to this country, and far beyond our borders. We know these products will help protect them from the harsh elements. Arbonne thanks you and salutes you!"
Operation Gratitude (www.OperationGratitude.com) is the 501 (c) (3) non-profit, volunteer organization that annually sends 100,000+ care packages filled with snacks, entertainment items and personal letters of appreciation addressed to individual U.S. Service Members deployed in hostile regions. The organization's mission is to lift morale and express to all Armed Forces the appreciation and support of the American people. Each package contains donated product valued at @$100 and costs the organization $11 to assemble and ship. By the end of 2009, Operation Gratitude will have shipped more than 500,000 packages to American Military deployed overseas.
MEDIA NOTE: Rita Davenport, Arbonne President, and Richard Estalella, Arbonne Sr. VP Operations, will make an official announcement about this donation at Operation Gratitude's "Kick-Off of the Operation Gratitude 2009 Holiday Drive" event this Saturday, October 24, between noon and 1 p.m. Pacific time, at the armory, located at: Operation Gratitude, 17330 Victory Blvd., Van Nuys, CA 91406
ABOUT ARBONNE
For three decades, Arbonne has been committed to enriching the lives of its Independent Consultants. Through unparalleled products, a strong, supportive community and a generous compensation plan, Arbonne provides the opportunity to achieve prosperity and freedom, and to live beautifully. The company creates personal care and wellness products that preserve and enhance the skin, body and mind. At Arbonne, beauty begins with premium botanical ingredients, an integrative approach to beauty and an unwavering commitment to pure, safe and beneficial products. Arbonne products are available exclusively through a network of independent distributors in the United States, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom. For more information, please visit www.arbonne.com.
Vogue.com Blog
Arbonne made the Vogue.com blog - check it out here!!!
http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/the-vogue-beauty-blog/articles/091020-arbonne-nutrimin-c.aspx
http://www.vogue.co.uk/blogs/the-vogue-beauty-blog/articles/091020-arbonne-nutrimin-c.aspx
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Rise of the Baby Boomers
From an article that my upline Jackie Zarp forwarded me...
http://www.mlmplayers.com/mastermind/5/12c1/
Rise of the Boomer
Born between 1946 and 1964, there are approximately 450 million baby boomers worldwide. The over-50 segment is the fastest growing global population and predicted life expectancies are historically high. In the United States, someone turns 50 once every seven seconds. Over the next few years, 50% of Europe’s population will be age 65 and older. In Italy, retirees will outnumber active workers by 2030. And in the U.K., baby boomers currently number 20 million and hold 80% of the nation’s wealth (source: BBC).
Anti-Aging Products and Services Surge
People around the world are getting older and living longer, creating a demand for products to make them feel healthier and look younger. In fact, by 2030 the number of people around the world over the age of 60 is expected to reach more than one billion. As the percentage of senior citizens increases, the demand for anti-aging products and services rises. The trend in aging solutions, like cosmetic surgery, is also changing. People are shifting from difficult reconstructive procedures to delicate, less invasive options. Indeed, the high cost of surgeries and Botox injections is also encouraging people toward professional skin care products. As a result, anti-aging treatments are gaining popularity. Last year, more than 91 million U.S. consumers tried anti-aging products and procedures to diminish visible signs of aging.
Prime Growth Drivers
* The trend toward healthy living into old age has been impacting industries such as weight-loss and diet products, and the company that offers products and services to postpone aging will witness the strongest demand in the upcoming years.
Anti-Aging from the Inside Out
The notion that looking youthful on the outside begins from within is influencing baby boomers. The market for anti-aging vitamins and supplements has an expected growth rate of nearly 50% from 2009 to 2015. This is fueled by an aging population seeking to keep the signs of aging at bay. Warding off premature aging with nutrition science is fast catching on, and taking health supplements to counteract the impact of inadequate nutrition and poor diet on cellular function is becoming common.
* The increasing aging population across the world, and the advent of younger consumers into the market hoping to preserve their youth before the onset of aging.
* Development of more effective anti-aging formulas will help sustain the demand momentum.
* Rise of the Internet as a storehouse of health-related information will boost the number of online seekers for "feel and look younger solutions."
* Higher per capita spends on anti-aging products in mature markets turbo-charge the demand for premium products.
The Anti-Aging Megatrend
The desire to retain a younger look and feel isn’t restricted to an older generation. With younger consumers hoping to preserve their youth before the onset of aging, the consumer cluster for anti-aging products expands from middle-aged and older consumers to younger consumers between 26 to 38 years. However, it’s the increasing aging population across the world that is really driving the demand for anti-aging products and services.
http://www.mlmplayers.com/mastermind/5/12c1/
Rise of the Boomer
Born between 1946 and 1964, there are approximately 450 million baby boomers worldwide. The over-50 segment is the fastest growing global population and predicted life expectancies are historically high. In the United States, someone turns 50 once every seven seconds. Over the next few years, 50% of Europe’s population will be age 65 and older. In Italy, retirees will outnumber active workers by 2030. And in the U.K., baby boomers currently number 20 million and hold 80% of the nation’s wealth (source: BBC).
Anti-Aging Products and Services Surge
People around the world are getting older and living longer, creating a demand for products to make them feel healthier and look younger. In fact, by 2030 the number of people around the world over the age of 60 is expected to reach more than one billion. As the percentage of senior citizens increases, the demand for anti-aging products and services rises. The trend in aging solutions, like cosmetic surgery, is also changing. People are shifting from difficult reconstructive procedures to delicate, less invasive options. Indeed, the high cost of surgeries and Botox injections is also encouraging people toward professional skin care products. As a result, anti-aging treatments are gaining popularity. Last year, more than 91 million U.S. consumers tried anti-aging products and procedures to diminish visible signs of aging.
Prime Growth Drivers
* The trend toward healthy living into old age has been impacting industries such as weight-loss and diet products, and the company that offers products and services to postpone aging will witness the strongest demand in the upcoming years.
Anti-Aging from the Inside Out
The notion that looking youthful on the outside begins from within is influencing baby boomers. The market for anti-aging vitamins and supplements has an expected growth rate of nearly 50% from 2009 to 2015. This is fueled by an aging population seeking to keep the signs of aging at bay. Warding off premature aging with nutrition science is fast catching on, and taking health supplements to counteract the impact of inadequate nutrition and poor diet on cellular function is becoming common.
* The increasing aging population across the world, and the advent of younger consumers into the market hoping to preserve their youth before the onset of aging.
* Development of more effective anti-aging formulas will help sustain the demand momentum.
* Rise of the Internet as a storehouse of health-related information will boost the number of online seekers for "feel and look younger solutions."
* Higher per capita spends on anti-aging products in mature markets turbo-charge the demand for premium products.
The Anti-Aging Megatrend
The desire to retain a younger look and feel isn’t restricted to an older generation. With younger consumers hoping to preserve their youth before the onset of aging, the consumer cluster for anti-aging products expands from middle-aged and older consumers to younger consumers between 26 to 38 years. However, it’s the increasing aging population across the world that is really driving the demand for anti-aging products and services.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
10 Drugstore Shampoos you shouldn't buy!
From totalbeauty.com
If there's one hair care secret I'd like everyone to know it's this: you don't have to spend a lot of money on shampoo to have healthy hair. True, there are great salon and high-end shampoos out there that are more than worth their price. But, for most of us, we can get along just fine using a quality drugstore shampoo.
Please note however that I said a quality drugstore shampoo. Because plenty of them just aren't good enough for your hair. Take, for example, the shampoos below. TotalBeauty.com readers tried them and found they left their hair dirty, dry or greasy -- ugh! Peruse the products below, and toss any coupons you may have for them, they're totally not worth it.
No. 10: Pantene Pro-V Nature Fusion Smooth Vitality Shampoo, $8.33
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 5.8 (out of 10)
Why: Most readers weren't impressed by this. "I don't think this shampoo and conditioner did anything out of the ordinary for my hair," one reader says. Another reader says it gave her "the weirdest breakouts on my upper arms."
No. 9: Suave Professionals Radiant Brunette Shampoo, $3.48
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 5.8
Why: Most readers did not find that this enhanced their hair color. Instead it "left my hair rather tangled" and one reader says it actually "stripped away the color!" Others complain that this left them with "straw-like [and] dull" hair. One reader says, "I had colored my hair [and] it went a little too dark. I went to a salon … this is what they used to strip my hair of the color. LOL!"
No. 8: Sunsilk Anti-Caida (Anti-Fall) Shampoo, $4.59
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 5.6
Why: The verdict: "This stuff dried my hair out and made my color run." Other readers agree, saying even though "I love the Sunsilk brand … this dried my hair out." The final word: "BAD."
No. 7: TIGI Bed Head Self Absorbed Shampoo, $10.50
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 5.5
Why: Readers feel a bit "blah" about this shampoo. "[Hair] wasn't stripped, but it wasn't very soft or shiny," readers say. While most readers had a so-so experience, one reader says, "my hair [was] so dry and tangle-y that my fingers got stuck in it when I tried to rinse the shampoo out." One reader laments, "Now I have 1 liter of this sitting around. It wasn't completely terrible but I don't use it."
No. 6: John Frieda Radiant Red Color Captivating Shampoo, $5.49
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 5.5
Why: This was a double-whammy disappointment, readers say. One complaint: "[It] made my soft, silky hair rough and tangled … unmanageable." But the biggest problem: "it did not seem to preserve my color at all," readers say. One reader was so sad that "all it did was stain my fingernails and towels red."
No. 5: TIGI Bed Head Moisture Maniac Shampoo, $10.50
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 5.4
Why: While readers do concede that this "smells good," they still can't endorse it. Why? "After using it my hair is rough and hard to brush," one reader says. Readers generally agree that this shampoo is "not nearly as moisturizing as its name leads you to believe."
No. 4: Burt's Bees Rosemary Mint Shampoo Bar, $5.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 5.1
Why: While this may work for short hair, readers with long hair say, "you'll do what I did and give up in the shower the first time." One reader says, "it was pretty difficult to get enough lather to completely get my hair clean, and I ended up in the shower for way longer than I wanted to be." The ultimate un-endorsement: "It made my hair look and feel like pubic hair," one reader says. "Nuff said."
No. 3: TreSemme ColorThrive Brunette Shampoo, $3.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 5
Why: Our readers' major complaint with this was its lack of cleaning power. "I have fine, oily hair and must shampoo daily. With this product, I find myself wanting to wash my hair twice a day," one reader says. Another agrees, saying "my hair doesn't feel as clean after I rinse." Other annoyances: "the smell isn't that great" and "three times after I had used it, my scalp was all itchy," one reader says, adding "I'm not [usually] allergic to any shampoo."
No. 2: TreSemme Vitamin B12 & Gelatin Anti-Breakage Shampoo, $6.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 4.9
Why: This left readers perplexed: "You'd think that a product that's supposed to inhibit breakage would help moisturize hair, but this really didn't at all," one says. She adds, "This ? actually seemed to dry my hair out even more." Other readers didn't like that "it left my hair feeling waxy (from the gelatin in it) and dry."
No. 1: Samy Smooth Shampoo, $5.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 4.3
Why: Smooth? Not so much, readers say. Instead, "it completely left my hair feeling heavy and dry," one reader says. Another adds, "It doesn't smooth, and it leaves hair funky feeling and dry." Fine, oily haired readers didn't like it either. "Made my fine hair greasy," and "made my hair limp and unmanageable, and it always felt dirty," readers say.
If there's one hair care secret I'd like everyone to know it's this: you don't have to spend a lot of money on shampoo to have healthy hair. True, there are great salon and high-end shampoos out there that are more than worth their price. But, for most of us, we can get along just fine using a quality drugstore shampoo.
Please note however that I said a quality drugstore shampoo. Because plenty of them just aren't good enough for your hair. Take, for example, the shampoos below. TotalBeauty.com readers tried them and found they left their hair dirty, dry or greasy -- ugh! Peruse the products below, and toss any coupons you may have for them, they're totally not worth it.
No. 10: Pantene Pro-V Nature Fusion Smooth Vitality Shampoo, $8.33
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 5.8 (out of 10)
Why: Most readers weren't impressed by this. "I don't think this shampoo and conditioner did anything out of the ordinary for my hair," one reader says. Another reader says it gave her "the weirdest breakouts on my upper arms."
No. 9: Suave Professionals Radiant Brunette Shampoo, $3.48
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 5.8
Why: Most readers did not find that this enhanced their hair color. Instead it "left my hair rather tangled" and one reader says it actually "stripped away the color!" Others complain that this left them with "straw-like [and] dull" hair. One reader says, "I had colored my hair [and] it went a little too dark. I went to a salon … this is what they used to strip my hair of the color. LOL!"
No. 8: Sunsilk Anti-Caida (Anti-Fall) Shampoo, $4.59
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 5.6
Why: The verdict: "This stuff dried my hair out and made my color run." Other readers agree, saying even though "I love the Sunsilk brand … this dried my hair out." The final word: "BAD."
No. 7: TIGI Bed Head Self Absorbed Shampoo, $10.50
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 5.5
Why: Readers feel a bit "blah" about this shampoo. "[Hair] wasn't stripped, but it wasn't very soft or shiny," readers say. While most readers had a so-so experience, one reader says, "my hair [was] so dry and tangle-y that my fingers got stuck in it when I tried to rinse the shampoo out." One reader laments, "Now I have 1 liter of this sitting around. It wasn't completely terrible but I don't use it."
No. 6: John Frieda Radiant Red Color Captivating Shampoo, $5.49
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 5.5
Why: This was a double-whammy disappointment, readers say. One complaint: "[It] made my soft, silky hair rough and tangled … unmanageable." But the biggest problem: "it did not seem to preserve my color at all," readers say. One reader was so sad that "all it did was stain my fingernails and towels red."
No. 5: TIGI Bed Head Moisture Maniac Shampoo, $10.50
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 5.4
Why: While readers do concede that this "smells good," they still can't endorse it. Why? "After using it my hair is rough and hard to brush," one reader says. Readers generally agree that this shampoo is "not nearly as moisturizing as its name leads you to believe."
No. 4: Burt's Bees Rosemary Mint Shampoo Bar, $5.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 5.1
Why: While this may work for short hair, readers with long hair say, "you'll do what I did and give up in the shower the first time." One reader says, "it was pretty difficult to get enough lather to completely get my hair clean, and I ended up in the shower for way longer than I wanted to be." The ultimate un-endorsement: "It made my hair look and feel like pubic hair," one reader says. "Nuff said."
No. 3: TreSemme ColorThrive Brunette Shampoo, $3.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 5
Why: Our readers' major complaint with this was its lack of cleaning power. "I have fine, oily hair and must shampoo daily. With this product, I find myself wanting to wash my hair twice a day," one reader says. Another agrees, saying "my hair doesn't feel as clean after I rinse." Other annoyances: "the smell isn't that great" and "three times after I had used it, my scalp was all itchy," one reader says, adding "I'm not [usually] allergic to any shampoo."
No. 2: TreSemme Vitamin B12 & Gelatin Anti-Breakage Shampoo, $6.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 4.9
Why: This left readers perplexed: "You'd think that a product that's supposed to inhibit breakage would help moisturize hair, but this really didn't at all," one says. She adds, "This ? actually seemed to dry my hair out even more." Other readers didn't like that "it left my hair feeling waxy (from the gelatin in it) and dry."
No. 1: Samy Smooth Shampoo, $5.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 4.3
Why: Smooth? Not so much, readers say. Instead, "it completely left my hair feeling heavy and dry," one reader says. Another adds, "It doesn't smooth, and it leaves hair funky feeling and dry." Fine, oily haired readers didn't like it either. "Made my fine hair greasy," and "made my hair limp and unmanageable, and it always felt dirty," readers say.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Another great article I found on Network Marketing!
Gabrielle Bernstein
Speaker, Author, Coach, Founder of www.HerFuture.com
Posted: October 20, 2009 04:33 PM
Creative Abundance
When my brunch conversations shifted from job loss to passive income, I knew my girlfriends were onto something good. The shift occurred when they got hip to the network marketing machine. What was once considered a pyramid scheme has now turned into a recession busting profit center. Network marketing is a structure designed by corporations to turn brand loyalists into distributors. This smart business model is the perfect money maker for proactive, out of work New Yorkers, those looking to rebuild their savings or entrepreneurs who rely on payment upon services rendered.
Due to numbers of new celebrity distributors, network marketing has become a trendy way to make money. Celebrities such as Donna Karen, Christie Turlington, Rodney Yee, Dr. and Christiane Northrup are now distributors for companies they love.
The hippest part of all is that it's young women who are the big players in the network marketing machine. Leave it to the ladies to bring abundance back! Neurobiological expert Louann Brizendine hypothesizes that women speak over 20,000 words a day. If we're spending that much time talking we better have something to sell. And now we do! New York City's finest female self-starters are stimulating our economy one conversation at a time.
I've featured four of my fabulous friends who are making major moves in the network marketing business. I'm confident their stories will help you further understand the benefits of this creative profit center.
Acupuncturist, Physical Therapist, Certified Aromatherapist and wellness enthusiast Bianca Beldini had been successfully using Young Living products on herself and her patients for the past five years. In January of 2009 she stopped buying products retail and became a wholesale distributor. She was inspired to make this shift after taking advice from her YL mentors and becoming aware of the possibility of creating a steady paycheck. "My first intention was to get my own monthly personal products paid for. One of my motivations for this was that I'm an entrepreneur. As an acupuncturist, unlike corporate employees, I have a fee for service business and if I don't go to work, if I get sick or go on vacation, I don't get paid. Utilizing this model afforded me an opportunity to get a monthly check in the mail that I could rely on. I get to enjoy and encourage the colleagues in my organization, I believe in the products and I've created an additional revenue stream. The best part of it all is that I am able to empower each individual in my organization to create the perfect trifecta: Health, Wellness and Financial Abundance!" says Beldini.
Though she may be young she is far from new to the networking marketing arena. Co-founder of Team Northrup Kate Northrup Moller has built her entire business model around the Usana network marketing supplement company. Kate was 18 years old when she began working out of her mother's living room. She has since partnered with her mother, Dr. Christiane Northrup, and together they've created an organization thousands strong that spans seven countries. "For me building a business in the network marketing industry means freedom -- I am the only 20-something I know who could potentially take a year or more off and not need to work. I continue to expand Team Northrup because I adore what I do and the fact that I not only have the financial stability to live the life I want to live, but also the freedom to choose to work on something that I love is such a blessing."
My friend Kelly Lynn Adams has used multilevel marketing business as a launch pad for her entrepreneurial future. Five years ago Kelly was looking for botanical & herbal skincare products to help her problematic skin. That's when she was introduced to Arbonne International. She soon discovered that Arbonne was not only a product line she loved but a way to move out of the 9 to 5 rat-race. "I love my extra check every month from Arbonne and continue building my team while still working a full time job. What could be better than choosing who you work with, talking about products that you love and believe in and not having to trade your time for money? I have finally found the perfect career! I am most passionate about the fact that I am able to empower, motivate and inspire each person on my team to have whatever it is in life that they want. "
In addition, the products these ladies are selling are perfectly aligned with recession theories on spending in a downturn economy. When times are tough we buy lipstick! The Lipstick Theory proposes that during a recession women will purchase inexpensive indulgences such as lipstick. This theory implies that we still want to treat ourselves, even when we can't afford more extravagant purchases. Furthermore, vitamin products and non-pharmaceutical healing aids such as essential oils will thrive during a recession. The thousands of people without health insurance can't afford to get sick. Therefore, they load up on vitamins for immunity.
The recession offers many opportunities to think without a box and follow your passions. Consider network marketing and turn those passions into profit centers.
Read more at: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/gabrielle-bernstein/creative-abundance_b_327643.html?awesm=fbshare.me_MeG
Speaker, Author, Coach, Founder of www.HerFuture.com
Posted: October 20, 2009 04:33 PM
Creative Abundance
When my brunch conversations shifted from job loss to passive income, I knew my girlfriends were onto something good. The shift occurred when they got hip to the network marketing machine. What was once considered a pyramid scheme has now turned into a recession busting profit center. Network marketing is a structure designed by corporations to turn brand loyalists into distributors. This smart business model is the perfect money maker for proactive, out of work New Yorkers, those looking to rebuild their savings or entrepreneurs who rely on payment upon services rendered.
Due to numbers of new celebrity distributors, network marketing has become a trendy way to make money. Celebrities such as Donna Karen, Christie Turlington, Rodney Yee, Dr. and Christiane Northrup are now distributors for companies they love.
The hippest part of all is that it's young women who are the big players in the network marketing machine. Leave it to the ladies to bring abundance back! Neurobiological expert Louann Brizendine hypothesizes that women speak over 20,000 words a day. If we're spending that much time talking we better have something to sell. And now we do! New York City's finest female self-starters are stimulating our economy one conversation at a time.
I've featured four of my fabulous friends who are making major moves in the network marketing business. I'm confident their stories will help you further understand the benefits of this creative profit center.
Acupuncturist, Physical Therapist, Certified Aromatherapist and wellness enthusiast Bianca Beldini had been successfully using Young Living products on herself and her patients for the past five years. In January of 2009 she stopped buying products retail and became a wholesale distributor. She was inspired to make this shift after taking advice from her YL mentors and becoming aware of the possibility of creating a steady paycheck. "My first intention was to get my own monthly personal products paid for. One of my motivations for this was that I'm an entrepreneur. As an acupuncturist, unlike corporate employees, I have a fee for service business and if I don't go to work, if I get sick or go on vacation, I don't get paid. Utilizing this model afforded me an opportunity to get a monthly check in the mail that I could rely on. I get to enjoy and encourage the colleagues in my organization, I believe in the products and I've created an additional revenue stream. The best part of it all is that I am able to empower each individual in my organization to create the perfect trifecta: Health, Wellness and Financial Abundance!" says Beldini.
Though she may be young she is far from new to the networking marketing arena. Co-founder of Team Northrup Kate Northrup Moller has built her entire business model around the Usana network marketing supplement company. Kate was 18 years old when she began working out of her mother's living room. She has since partnered with her mother, Dr. Christiane Northrup, and together they've created an organization thousands strong that spans seven countries. "For me building a business in the network marketing industry means freedom -- I am the only 20-something I know who could potentially take a year or more off and not need to work. I continue to expand Team Northrup because I adore what I do and the fact that I not only have the financial stability to live the life I want to live, but also the freedom to choose to work on something that I love is such a blessing."
My friend Kelly Lynn Adams has used multilevel marketing business as a launch pad for her entrepreneurial future. Five years ago Kelly was looking for botanical & herbal skincare products to help her problematic skin. That's when she was introduced to Arbonne International. She soon discovered that Arbonne was not only a product line she loved but a way to move out of the 9 to 5 rat-race. "I love my extra check every month from Arbonne and continue building my team while still working a full time job. What could be better than choosing who you work with, talking about products that you love and believe in and not having to trade your time for money? I have finally found the perfect career! I am most passionate about the fact that I am able to empower, motivate and inspire each person on my team to have whatever it is in life that they want. "
In addition, the products these ladies are selling are perfectly aligned with recession theories on spending in a downturn economy. When times are tough we buy lipstick! The Lipstick Theory proposes that during a recession women will purchase inexpensive indulgences such as lipstick. This theory implies that we still want to treat ourselves, even when we can't afford more extravagant purchases. Furthermore, vitamin products and non-pharmaceutical healing aids such as essential oils will thrive during a recession. The thousands of people without health insurance can't afford to get sick. Therefore, they load up on vitamins for immunity.
The recession offers many opportunities to think without a box and follow your passions. Consider network marketing and turn those passions into profit centers.
Read more at: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/gabrielle-bernstein/creative-abundance_b_327643.html?awesm=fbshare.me_MeG
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Subject: Attorney Ditches Court Room for Arbonne (front page Toronto Star)
Toronto Star
CAREER SHIFT
http://media.thestar.topscms.com/images/1b/e4/43f51e1f4027b43ab19f87f21808.jpeg
JIM RANKIN/TORONTO STAR
Lawyer Jennifer Maron, mother of three, is quickly climbing the ladder at Arbonne, a skin-care line that’s marketed like Tupperware.
Ditching courtrooms for cosmetics, lawyer embraces direct marketing
Aug 29, 2009 04:30 AM
David Graham
Fashion Editor
Bay Street lawyer Jennifer Maron worried how her colleagues might react to the news she was abandoning the rough-and-tumble world of the courtroom to sell skin-care products.
The 43-year-old mother of three was turning her back on a successful career to become an independent consultant for Arbonne International Inc. – a little-known line of beauty and nutrition products sold through a direct marketing program similar to Tupperware.
She took the plunge into direct sales in March, but the decision was a struggle.
"I'm a litigator, a trained professional and a health law specialist," she recalls thinking at the time.
Maron had trouble shaking the cliché of the annoying aunt who pressures beleaguered relatives and friends into purchasing things they don't particularly want or need.
"As a lawyer, I always felt I was in a prestige occupation. But there's a stigma associated with direct sales."
The transition began a year-and-a-half ago. While on maternity leave with her third child, someone introduced her to Arbonne. Until then, she used expensive, designer brands. "I thought I'd get better results if I spent more money," Maron says.
She was impressed with the product's natural and botanical properties as well as its environmentally conscious packaging.
But she never imagined herself in sales.
When the recession hit and news of budget cuts and layoffs dominated headlines, Maron wanted to help her family by going back to work. The same friend who got her using Arbonne suggested she come on board as a consultant.
"I was very critical in the beginning. I wasn't going to do parties."
Maron organized her first party in March, then a second and a third. Turns out, she's a natural.
Her success also benefits the friend who recruited her. Generally speaking, direct sales representatives earn commissions on the sales of those they recruit. At some companies, the levels are infinite, and that's when the earnings of those at the top reach astronomical numbers.
In her book The Women's Millionaire Club, Maureen Mulvaney chronicles the success of 21 women who earn as much as $20 million (U.S.) annually through home-based businesses. Maron says three of those women are associated with Arbonne.
Hard times are good for direct marketing companies to swell their sales staff. Apparently, in a depersonalized world of big box merchandisers and e-tailing, there's still room for Old School salesmanship.
And companies like Mary Kay, Avon, Tupperware and Pampered Chef are actively recruiting.
Lured by the potential income, flexible hours and the promise they will be their own boss, some men and (mostly) women are trying their hands at direct sales. Like Maron, they struggle to get past the embarrassment factor – the fear they will annoy people with their persistent pitches.
Certainly, in the beginning, family and friends will buy something because they feel obliged, says Ross Creber, president of the Direct Sellers Association of Canada.
But you have to get past the first hurdle and make the leap that turns an amateur into a professional.
The trick, Creber says, is to keep going.
According to the association, 81 per cent of direct sellers are married and 88 per cent are women, though Creber says more men are getting in on the action.
"There are no entry restrictions in this business – no age or education requirement. It's open to anyone who wants to give it a try. You get out what you put into it. If you treat it like a hobby, you will earn a hobbyist's income."
Of the 64 million direct sellers in the world, he says, 600,000 are in Canada.
Creber says 54 four per cent of the companies in his association report an increase in sales in 2009 over last year as well as an increase in recruitment, although direct marketing sales in the U.S. are reportedly down.
"Canada is a good market for direct sellers, particularly in rural areas."
Pampered Chef, the 30-year-old kitchen product direct marketer owned since 2002 by Warren Buffet, has new recruits host a 30-minute cooking show in which they prepare and cook an "easy but wow" dish and showcase the Pampered Chef tools used in its execution.
As well, they must buy starter kits of products to launch their careers, says Janice Gerol, vice-president and general manager of Canada and Mexico for the company.
"This is not a get-rich-quick scheme," she says.
Because earning potential is directly related to the effort put in, she says her company has a formula – "two shows a week will earn you $1,000 a month, four shows a week will earn you $4,000 a month."
It works out to about $25 an hour, she says, but concedes that four shows a week is a lot of work.
Creber admits that only very committed, ambitious people make six figures. Most people who enter the direct sales arena do not treat it like a serious business, he says.
"About 10 to 15 per cent of direct sellers are involved on a full-time basis."
Maron says she has what it takes.
She went into law because she wanted to make a difference. She stayed for the money. Likewise, now she's selling Arbonne because she believes in the product – and, like in her law career, she expects a solid return.
But she won't specify. All Maron will say about her income as a lawyer is that she was very successful.
Arbonne's appeal, she says, it that the products have to be replenished, so the potential for return customers is enormous.
She is networking aggressively and has already signed up a few spas. She participated in an Arbonne kiosk at the Rogers Cup and at the CNE, giving out free hand massages, samples and, of course, a follow-up phone call.
Maron is an executive district manager and wants to be an area manager by October, all of which means she is earning a small percentage of the sales of those under her.
By March, a year after giving her first party, she wants to be a regional vice-president. That would mean an expensive perk.
Regional vice-presidents in the Arbonne world drive white Mercedes Benz – any model, any year, buy or lease, as long as the cars are white – for which the company ponies up $1,000 a month.
Maron is keeping an eye trained on the recent dealings of none other than Donald Trump, who has said publicly that, if he had to do it all over again, he would not waste his time on real estate and instead go directly into direct sales.
His new Trump television network launches this fall, with a beauty line that Maron suggests is remarkably similar to Arbonne.
CAREER SHIFT
http://media.thestar.topscms.com/images/1b/e4/43f51e1f4027b43ab19f87f21808.jpeg
JIM RANKIN/TORONTO STAR
Lawyer Jennifer Maron, mother of three, is quickly climbing the ladder at Arbonne, a skin-care line that’s marketed like Tupperware.
Ditching courtrooms for cosmetics, lawyer embraces direct marketing
Aug 29, 2009 04:30 AM
David Graham
Fashion Editor
Bay Street lawyer Jennifer Maron worried how her colleagues might react to the news she was abandoning the rough-and-tumble world of the courtroom to sell skin-care products.
The 43-year-old mother of three was turning her back on a successful career to become an independent consultant for Arbonne International Inc. – a little-known line of beauty and nutrition products sold through a direct marketing program similar to Tupperware.
She took the plunge into direct sales in March, but the decision was a struggle.
"I'm a litigator, a trained professional and a health law specialist," she recalls thinking at the time.
Maron had trouble shaking the cliché of the annoying aunt who pressures beleaguered relatives and friends into purchasing things they don't particularly want or need.
"As a lawyer, I always felt I was in a prestige occupation. But there's a stigma associated with direct sales."
The transition began a year-and-a-half ago. While on maternity leave with her third child, someone introduced her to Arbonne. Until then, she used expensive, designer brands. "I thought I'd get better results if I spent more money," Maron says.
She was impressed with the product's natural and botanical properties as well as its environmentally conscious packaging.
But she never imagined herself in sales.
When the recession hit and news of budget cuts and layoffs dominated headlines, Maron wanted to help her family by going back to work. The same friend who got her using Arbonne suggested she come on board as a consultant.
"I was very critical in the beginning. I wasn't going to do parties."
Maron organized her first party in March, then a second and a third. Turns out, she's a natural.
Her success also benefits the friend who recruited her. Generally speaking, direct sales representatives earn commissions on the sales of those they recruit. At some companies, the levels are infinite, and that's when the earnings of those at the top reach astronomical numbers.
In her book The Women's Millionaire Club, Maureen Mulvaney chronicles the success of 21 women who earn as much as $20 million (U.S.) annually through home-based businesses. Maron says three of those women are associated with Arbonne.
Hard times are good for direct marketing companies to swell their sales staff. Apparently, in a depersonalized world of big box merchandisers and e-tailing, there's still room for Old School salesmanship.
And companies like Mary Kay, Avon, Tupperware and Pampered Chef are actively recruiting.
Lured by the potential income, flexible hours and the promise they will be their own boss, some men and (mostly) women are trying their hands at direct sales. Like Maron, they struggle to get past the embarrassment factor – the fear they will annoy people with their persistent pitches.
Certainly, in the beginning, family and friends will buy something because they feel obliged, says Ross Creber, president of the Direct Sellers Association of Canada.
But you have to get past the first hurdle and make the leap that turns an amateur into a professional.
The trick, Creber says, is to keep going.
According to the association, 81 per cent of direct sellers are married and 88 per cent are women, though Creber says more men are getting in on the action.
"There are no entry restrictions in this business – no age or education requirement. It's open to anyone who wants to give it a try. You get out what you put into it. If you treat it like a hobby, you will earn a hobbyist's income."
Of the 64 million direct sellers in the world, he says, 600,000 are in Canada.
Creber says 54 four per cent of the companies in his association report an increase in sales in 2009 over last year as well as an increase in recruitment, although direct marketing sales in the U.S. are reportedly down.
"Canada is a good market for direct sellers, particularly in rural areas."
Pampered Chef, the 30-year-old kitchen product direct marketer owned since 2002 by Warren Buffet, has new recruits host a 30-minute cooking show in which they prepare and cook an "easy but wow" dish and showcase the Pampered Chef tools used in its execution.
As well, they must buy starter kits of products to launch their careers, says Janice Gerol, vice-president and general manager of Canada and Mexico for the company.
"This is not a get-rich-quick scheme," she says.
Because earning potential is directly related to the effort put in, she says her company has a formula – "two shows a week will earn you $1,000 a month, four shows a week will earn you $4,000 a month."
It works out to about $25 an hour, she says, but concedes that four shows a week is a lot of work.
Creber admits that only very committed, ambitious people make six figures. Most people who enter the direct sales arena do not treat it like a serious business, he says.
"About 10 to 15 per cent of direct sellers are involved on a full-time basis."
Maron says she has what it takes.
She went into law because she wanted to make a difference. She stayed for the money. Likewise, now she's selling Arbonne because she believes in the product – and, like in her law career, she expects a solid return.
But she won't specify. All Maron will say about her income as a lawyer is that she was very successful.
Arbonne's appeal, she says, it that the products have to be replenished, so the potential for return customers is enormous.
She is networking aggressively and has already signed up a few spas. She participated in an Arbonne kiosk at the Rogers Cup and at the CNE, giving out free hand massages, samples and, of course, a follow-up phone call.
Maron is an executive district manager and wants to be an area manager by October, all of which means she is earning a small percentage of the sales of those under her.
By March, a year after giving her first party, she wants to be a regional vice-president. That would mean an expensive perk.
Regional vice-presidents in the Arbonne world drive white Mercedes Benz – any model, any year, buy or lease, as long as the cars are white – for which the company ponies up $1,000 a month.
Maron is keeping an eye trained on the recent dealings of none other than Donald Trump, who has said publicly that, if he had to do it all over again, he would not waste his time on real estate and instead go directly into direct sales.
His new Trump television network launches this fall, with a beauty line that Maron suggests is remarkably similar to Arbonne.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Press Release Announcing New Arbonne CEO
For Immediate Release
Arbonne Appoints Katherine Napier as New CEO
Former senior marketing and operations executive at McDonald's and Procter & Gamble tapped to lead global growth initiatives and strengthen the company's position as a leader in the direct selling industry
Irvine, CA - Arbonne International, LLC (Arbonne) today announced Katherine "Kay" Napier has joined the company as its new Chief Executive Officer. Napier will lead all key facets of Arbonne's global business while reinvigorating the company's focus on its core principles, established almost 30 years ago: To create products that are pure, safe and beneficial. Arbonne creates opportunities for people seeking meaningful financial, social, cultural and intellectual rewards; and encourages all members of the organization to contribute locally, nationally and internationally to the improvement of our ecological, social and cultural environment.
"Kay brings the vision, experience and insight required to lead Arbonne through its next phase of growth," said Ira Kleinman, Arbonne's Chairman. "Kay impressed us with her ability to leverage and build upon organizational strengths to drive success. While Kay has deep grounding in marketing and development, she also brings a high level of operating experience, which will be critical to Arbonne's long-term growth. We are very pleased to welcome her to the team."
"I consider it a privilege and a great opportunity to lead Arbonne's employees and Consultants worldwide at this important time for the company. There has never been a better time for the terrific combination of pure and beneficial products shared by motivated, talented women," said Napier.
Napier most recently held the position of Senior Vice President, Marketing for McDonald's. While at McDonald's, she led the reinvention of its Happy Meal business, directed the development of its "go active" product and marketing initiatives, and deepened the brand's connection with women and families through the roll-out of information about healthier living and the development of healthier product choices. Both were key elements of a highly-successful global repositioning effort. Critical to the success of those initiatives was Napier's close collaboration with McDonald's highly-developed network of independent franchisees. While at McDonald's, Napier also led the company's renewed growth in Europe, which resulted from stronger marketing direction, greater communication and collaboration across the continent and the development of new product offerings that better positioned the company on the leading edge of key consumer trends.
Prior to McDonald's, Napier retired from Procter & Gamble as Vice President, North America Pharmaceuticals and Corporate Women's Health and Vitality, culminating a 23 year career at the consumer products leader. Among her many accomplishments, Napier spearheaded the development and marketing of Procter & Gamble's Actonel osteoporosis drug, which transformed the company's pharmaceutical business. Napier also encouraged the company to place greater focus on women's health and well being, establishing a major retail women's health program and building business across product lines in health, beauty care, feminine protection and nutrition. Throughout her career, Napier has been guided by the principle that educated, driven women represent enormous untapped potential. The sales force she led at Procter & Gamble consisted of over one thousand representatives, with many women in leadership roles. Napier also credits much of McDonald's business turnaround to the leadership of the women's franchisee network, with whom she shared a close collaboration.
Napier earned a Masters of Business Administration from Xavier University and a Bachelor of Arts in economics and studio fine arts from Georgetown University. She currently sits on the Board of Trustees of Xavier University, as well as the Boards of Directors of both Hill-Rom Holdings and the Exact Sciences Corporation. Napier has also served on the Board of Directors of Alberto Culver, a beauty company, for the last three years.
About Arbonne
Founded in 1980, Arbonne's mission has been to develop and distribute skin care products with a Swiss heritage that are pure, safe and beneficial. Known for its best-selling, revolutionary anti-aging skin care products, Arbonne has grown to include a full line of personal care products, all available through its network of Arbonne Independent Consultants. Arbonne markets its products exclusively through Arbonne Independent Consultants doing business in the United States, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom.
For more information, please visit www.arbonne.com.
The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.
Arbonne Appoints Katherine Napier as New CEO
Former senior marketing and operations executive at McDonald's and Procter & Gamble tapped to lead global growth initiatives and strengthen the company's position as a leader in the direct selling industry
Irvine, CA - Arbonne International, LLC (Arbonne) today announced Katherine "Kay" Napier has joined the company as its new Chief Executive Officer. Napier will lead all key facets of Arbonne's global business while reinvigorating the company's focus on its core principles, established almost 30 years ago: To create products that are pure, safe and beneficial. Arbonne creates opportunities for people seeking meaningful financial, social, cultural and intellectual rewards; and encourages all members of the organization to contribute locally, nationally and internationally to the improvement of our ecological, social and cultural environment.
"Kay brings the vision, experience and insight required to lead Arbonne through its next phase of growth," said Ira Kleinman, Arbonne's Chairman. "Kay impressed us with her ability to leverage and build upon organizational strengths to drive success. While Kay has deep grounding in marketing and development, she also brings a high level of operating experience, which will be critical to Arbonne's long-term growth. We are very pleased to welcome her to the team."
"I consider it a privilege and a great opportunity to lead Arbonne's employees and Consultants worldwide at this important time for the company. There has never been a better time for the terrific combination of pure and beneficial products shared by motivated, talented women," said Napier.
Napier most recently held the position of Senior Vice President, Marketing for McDonald's. While at McDonald's, she led the reinvention of its Happy Meal business, directed the development of its "go active" product and marketing initiatives, and deepened the brand's connection with women and families through the roll-out of information about healthier living and the development of healthier product choices. Both were key elements of a highly-successful global repositioning effort. Critical to the success of those initiatives was Napier's close collaboration with McDonald's highly-developed network of independent franchisees. While at McDonald's, Napier also led the company's renewed growth in Europe, which resulted from stronger marketing direction, greater communication and collaboration across the continent and the development of new product offerings that better positioned the company on the leading edge of key consumer trends.
Prior to McDonald's, Napier retired from Procter & Gamble as Vice President, North America Pharmaceuticals and Corporate Women's Health and Vitality, culminating a 23 year career at the consumer products leader. Among her many accomplishments, Napier spearheaded the development and marketing of Procter & Gamble's Actonel osteoporosis drug, which transformed the company's pharmaceutical business. Napier also encouraged the company to place greater focus on women's health and well being, establishing a major retail women's health program and building business across product lines in health, beauty care, feminine protection and nutrition. Throughout her career, Napier has been guided by the principle that educated, driven women represent enormous untapped potential. The sales force she led at Procter & Gamble consisted of over one thousand representatives, with many women in leadership roles. Napier also credits much of McDonald's business turnaround to the leadership of the women's franchisee network, with whom she shared a close collaboration.
Napier earned a Masters of Business Administration from Xavier University and a Bachelor of Arts in economics and studio fine arts from Georgetown University. She currently sits on the Board of Trustees of Xavier University, as well as the Boards of Directors of both Hill-Rom Holdings and the Exact Sciences Corporation. Napier has also served on the Board of Directors of Alberto Culver, a beauty company, for the last three years.
About Arbonne
Founded in 1980, Arbonne's mission has been to develop and distribute skin care products with a Swiss heritage that are pure, safe and beneficial. Known for its best-selling, revolutionary anti-aging skin care products, Arbonne has grown to include a full line of personal care products, all available through its network of Arbonne Independent Consultants. Arbonne markets its products exclusively through Arbonne Independent Consultants doing business in the United States, Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom.
For more information, please visit www.arbonne.com.
The names of actual companies and products mentioned herein may be the trademarks of their respective owners.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
7-Day Detox Cleanse
I am currently breastfeeding and am finding it hard to lose weight! My baby will be 1 in December and that is my goal for the breastfeeding... I can't wait to kick start my weight loss with the 7-Day Detox Cleanse from Arbonne! I have heard such wonderful things about it and I know that if you want to lose weight or just to feel better this is the product for you!!!
Friday, June 19, 2009
Package Design Magazine Article
FROM THE EDITOR
Eyes on the Prize
Arbonne's FC5™ Line Captures Translucent Allure in Short Order
By Ron Romanik
With nearly one million independent sales "consultants," Arbonne markets its dozens of lines and hundreds of skin care, cosmetic, and nutritional products. Arbonne uses a variety of taglines to promote that its products are unparalleled in quality, purity, safety and beneficial results, such as "pure. safe. beneficial." Fresh off their National Training Celebration in Las Vegas in April, where 8,000 attendees crowded the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, the independent sales force is armed with the new FC5 lines of fruit- and vegetable-enhanced hydration products for the skin and hair.
The FC5 line from Arbonne features "Fresh Cell" technology that keeps real fruit and vegetable cell nutrients fresh until applied to the skin or hair. Arbonne listened closely to its independent sales consultants when developing the launch of 14 FC5 products and packages in a short 14-week time span.
The flagship Arbonne line is the anti-aging NutriMinC® RE9® line packaged in orange and gold. Gregory Chambers, v.p. of product quality and package development, explains that whereas the RE9 line helps reverse the signs of aging, the FC5 products help pause the signs of aging.
The brand and packaging were designed to be more fun and contemporary while catering to the expectations of the potential consumer. Though the packages never appear on shelves at retail, the Arbonne staff understands that its packaging still must perform at a high level in every aspect to meet the expectations of its independent sales consultants. "I believe this is much more difficult as far as scrutiny," says Chambers. "It's really magnified."
FC5 = five fresh cell fruits and vegetables
The proprietary science of FC5 captures the potent extracts of five fruits and vegetables—kiwi, strawberry, mango, pumpkin, and carrot—for their specific moisturizing, nourishing, or cleansing properties. Mark Patterson, director of creative services, decided early on to downplay the fruit aspect on the packaging, using only a small image of a single fruit (or vegetable) on the secondary package instead of overwhelming the FC5 brand. "It's a more serious line than that," Patterson explains.
The colors were chosen to express the fresh, cooling sensation to match the experience during use of the product. Patterson explains the colors of blue, teal, and acid green evoke water shades, ocean elements, and vibrant energy. Though the three colors are not necessarily seen together frequently, they are very harmonious while also separate. "It also helps tell that freshness story we're trying to tell," says Patterson.
Mark Dalea, packaging engineer, tested and sourced the packaging components for the launch. The design team went with glossy secondary boxes, but the bottles and tubes have a decidedly matte finish and tactile experience, along with graphics that reflect classic elements refreshed with a modern sensibility. "The packaging really supports the product and the innovative Fresh Cell technology," Dalea explains.
Patterson views the success of the new FC5 package designs as expanding Arbonne's range. "FC5 can appeal to a younger crowd but not turn off the older crowd," says Patterson.
Formulating a plan
With the short time line of the project, many aspects of the launch had to be conducted in parallel. Dalea says the challenge was to look high-end, but still hit a good price point. Patterson agrees, adding, "We had to take advantage of trends already in the marketplace. We weren't going to sacrifice design, and it was my job to make the packaging be as sophisticated and advanced as the science."
One aspect was to line up Arbonne's suppliers, manufacturers, and printers early and make sure they could, as Dalea says, "Get it in the right package for the right price." For instance, the designers traveled to the technical center of Arbonne supplier to nail down how the target blue color and translucence of the jar resin would be achieved.
Usually, it would have been a trial-and-error process over weeks. "Now, we get the team together and get on a plane and go," says Chambers. "We stay there until we get it done."
Similarly, Chambers says that they sought the help of on another component supplier for tooling, decorating, caps, and pump refinement to optimize packaging performance. "We rely heavily on our suppliers," Chambers happily admits, explaining how thoughtful planning easily saved weeks of time and effort in the production cycle. The goal was to make the package production aspect of the launch as foolproof as possible at the end.
"We had one shot to get it right," says Patterson.
Using white as one of the base colors on the FC5 products also made the packages easier to color match. Patterson was pleased with the way the packages alternate, in a fashion, between using white as a base or as an accent. "That way, it's easier to nail it on the first or second time," says Dalea.
A design element not seen here is the printed interior surface of the product boxes. A single pass of a single color was used to create a watery interior, as if the boxes were filled with liquid. Like the exterior of the boxes, the graphic has a wavy water line. The color has a gradation to a more saturated print at the bottom of the box interior. Chambers explains that the cost difference for this added pass was minimal compared to the bonus surprise element experienced by independent sales consultants and consumer end-users.
Marketing a concept
Most of the graphic design strategies are conceived and planned in-house at the Arbonne corporate headquarters in Irvine, CA, while some of the design execution is outsourced to design firms. They back up their design directions with focus groups that confirm that they are going down the right path
For the launch of the FC5 products, Arbonne embarked on a "Road Tour" that hit 25 cities in 10 weeks. They traveled with a 48-foot semi truck with cosmetic booths inside. Linda Melillo, product manager for the FC5 line, worked closely with the marketing team with the first and foremost priority of communicating "hydration" and "fruit and vegetable cell nutrients" that are both fresh and potent.
"This line is all about pausing the signs of aging," explains Melillo. "We wanted to communicate the freshness with the scent." She is pleased with the white radiance and colorful vibrancy of the packaging, and also pleased with the formulation of the all-natural scents. Arbonne tested the scents against major retail brands with hundreds of consumers at the Mall of Americas in Minneapolis, MN, and the response was overwhelmingly positive.
Melillo explains the scent for the hair and body FC5 products as fresh citrus with top notes of Valencia oranges, Satsuma limes, Chinese mandarin, and middle notes of blood oranges, white grapefruit and Italian bergamot. Bottom notes include crystallized ginger and mate tea leaves. The face products have a slightly different scent with added apple notes and reduced mandarin notes. The response from the independent sales consultants, who are predominantly female, has been enthusiastic.
Sustainability with functionality
Arbonne is also taking a proactive approach to more sustainable packaging. The company has long had eco-friendly practices such as no animal testing and vegan-certified products. The FC5 line uses recyclable plastic components, FSC-certified board, and vegetable-based inks.
"We tried hard to listen to the consumers and give them what they want," says Dalea. "We're thinking about the environmental impact as well as the consultants needs. That's a path that we're trying to focus on."
Patterson says that it is the little things that can make a big difference in how consumers respond to the functionality of a package. "We really tried to think about form and function here," he maintains. For instance, the team put shampoo and conditioner in different container shapes with steady bases, so that in the shower it is easier for users to use and tell them apart. Also, every FC5 product has some translucence, so the user knows when it is time to reorder.
The Arbonne design team also compiled a healthy amount of different research findings to determine the appropriate sizes of the packages, including surveying current salon package sizes. The key question became "What are potential customers expecting?" The packages are not any prescribed supply for a specific number of days or weeks, but rather an average of typical usage rates for 30 to 45 days.
The project team went with airless pumps on the pump packages for the benefit of evacuating all of the product. For a quality product, consumers expect that they will be able to access every drop. "The pump was the No. 1 performance issue we had to address," admits Chambers. Once the formula consistency was determined for each product, the supplier refined the pumps to perform optimally.
Ron Romanik
Editor-in-Chief
ron.romanik@stmediagroup.com
Eyes on the Prize
Arbonne's FC5™ Line Captures Translucent Allure in Short Order
By Ron Romanik
With nearly one million independent sales "consultants," Arbonne markets its dozens of lines and hundreds of skin care, cosmetic, and nutritional products. Arbonne uses a variety of taglines to promote that its products are unparalleled in quality, purity, safety and beneficial results, such as "pure. safe. beneficial." Fresh off their National Training Celebration in Las Vegas in April, where 8,000 attendees crowded the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, the independent sales force is armed with the new FC5 lines of fruit- and vegetable-enhanced hydration products for the skin and hair.
The FC5 line from Arbonne features "Fresh Cell" technology that keeps real fruit and vegetable cell nutrients fresh until applied to the skin or hair. Arbonne listened closely to its independent sales consultants when developing the launch of 14 FC5 products and packages in a short 14-week time span.
The flagship Arbonne line is the anti-aging NutriMinC® RE9® line packaged in orange and gold. Gregory Chambers, v.p. of product quality and package development, explains that whereas the RE9 line helps reverse the signs of aging, the FC5 products help pause the signs of aging.
The brand and packaging were designed to be more fun and contemporary while catering to the expectations of the potential consumer. Though the packages never appear on shelves at retail, the Arbonne staff understands that its packaging still must perform at a high level in every aspect to meet the expectations of its independent sales consultants. "I believe this is much more difficult as far as scrutiny," says Chambers. "It's really magnified."
FC5 = five fresh cell fruits and vegetables
The proprietary science of FC5 captures the potent extracts of five fruits and vegetables—kiwi, strawberry, mango, pumpkin, and carrot—for their specific moisturizing, nourishing, or cleansing properties. Mark Patterson, director of creative services, decided early on to downplay the fruit aspect on the packaging, using only a small image of a single fruit (or vegetable) on the secondary package instead of overwhelming the FC5 brand. "It's a more serious line than that," Patterson explains.
The colors were chosen to express the fresh, cooling sensation to match the experience during use of the product. Patterson explains the colors of blue, teal, and acid green evoke water shades, ocean elements, and vibrant energy. Though the three colors are not necessarily seen together frequently, they are very harmonious while also separate. "It also helps tell that freshness story we're trying to tell," says Patterson.
Mark Dalea, packaging engineer, tested and sourced the packaging components for the launch. The design team went with glossy secondary boxes, but the bottles and tubes have a decidedly matte finish and tactile experience, along with graphics that reflect classic elements refreshed with a modern sensibility. "The packaging really supports the product and the innovative Fresh Cell technology," Dalea explains.
Patterson views the success of the new FC5 package designs as expanding Arbonne's range. "FC5 can appeal to a younger crowd but not turn off the older crowd," says Patterson.
Formulating a plan
With the short time line of the project, many aspects of the launch had to be conducted in parallel. Dalea says the challenge was to look high-end, but still hit a good price point. Patterson agrees, adding, "We had to take advantage of trends already in the marketplace. We weren't going to sacrifice design, and it was my job to make the packaging be as sophisticated and advanced as the science."
One aspect was to line up Arbonne's suppliers, manufacturers, and printers early and make sure they could, as Dalea says, "Get it in the right package for the right price." For instance, the designers traveled to the technical center of Arbonne supplier to nail down how the target blue color and translucence of the jar resin would be achieved.
Usually, it would have been a trial-and-error process over weeks. "Now, we get the team together and get on a plane and go," says Chambers. "We stay there until we get it done."
Similarly, Chambers says that they sought the help of on another component supplier for tooling, decorating, caps, and pump refinement to optimize packaging performance. "We rely heavily on our suppliers," Chambers happily admits, explaining how thoughtful planning easily saved weeks of time and effort in the production cycle. The goal was to make the package production aspect of the launch as foolproof as possible at the end.
"We had one shot to get it right," says Patterson.
Using white as one of the base colors on the FC5 products also made the packages easier to color match. Patterson was pleased with the way the packages alternate, in a fashion, between using white as a base or as an accent. "That way, it's easier to nail it on the first or second time," says Dalea.
A design element not seen here is the printed interior surface of the product boxes. A single pass of a single color was used to create a watery interior, as if the boxes were filled with liquid. Like the exterior of the boxes, the graphic has a wavy water line. The color has a gradation to a more saturated print at the bottom of the box interior. Chambers explains that the cost difference for this added pass was minimal compared to the bonus surprise element experienced by independent sales consultants and consumer end-users.
Marketing a concept
Most of the graphic design strategies are conceived and planned in-house at the Arbonne corporate headquarters in Irvine, CA, while some of the design execution is outsourced to design firms. They back up their design directions with focus groups that confirm that they are going down the right path
For the launch of the FC5 products, Arbonne embarked on a "Road Tour" that hit 25 cities in 10 weeks. They traveled with a 48-foot semi truck with cosmetic booths inside. Linda Melillo, product manager for the FC5 line, worked closely with the marketing team with the first and foremost priority of communicating "hydration" and "fruit and vegetable cell nutrients" that are both fresh and potent.
"This line is all about pausing the signs of aging," explains Melillo. "We wanted to communicate the freshness with the scent." She is pleased with the white radiance and colorful vibrancy of the packaging, and also pleased with the formulation of the all-natural scents. Arbonne tested the scents against major retail brands with hundreds of consumers at the Mall of Americas in Minneapolis, MN, and the response was overwhelmingly positive.
Melillo explains the scent for the hair and body FC5 products as fresh citrus with top notes of Valencia oranges, Satsuma limes, Chinese mandarin, and middle notes of blood oranges, white grapefruit and Italian bergamot. Bottom notes include crystallized ginger and mate tea leaves. The face products have a slightly different scent with added apple notes and reduced mandarin notes. The response from the independent sales consultants, who are predominantly female, has been enthusiastic.
Sustainability with functionality
Arbonne is also taking a proactive approach to more sustainable packaging. The company has long had eco-friendly practices such as no animal testing and vegan-certified products. The FC5 line uses recyclable plastic components, FSC-certified board, and vegetable-based inks.
"We tried hard to listen to the consumers and give them what they want," says Dalea. "We're thinking about the environmental impact as well as the consultants needs. That's a path that we're trying to focus on."
Patterson says that it is the little things that can make a big difference in how consumers respond to the functionality of a package. "We really tried to think about form and function here," he maintains. For instance, the team put shampoo and conditioner in different container shapes with steady bases, so that in the shower it is easier for users to use and tell them apart. Also, every FC5 product has some translucence, so the user knows when it is time to reorder.
The Arbonne design team also compiled a healthy amount of different research findings to determine the appropriate sizes of the packages, including surveying current salon package sizes. The key question became "What are potential customers expecting?" The packages are not any prescribed supply for a specific number of days or weeks, but rather an average of typical usage rates for 30 to 45 days.
The project team went with airless pumps on the pump packages for the benefit of evacuating all of the product. For a quality product, consumers expect that they will be able to access every drop. "The pump was the No. 1 performance issue we had to address," admits Chambers. Once the formula consistency was determined for each product, the supplier refined the pumps to perform optimally.
Ron Romanik
Editor-in-Chief
ron.romanik@stmediagroup.com
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Arbonne in the news...
Check this out!
http://www.myfoxchicago.com/dpp/money/Network_marketing_sales_consultant
Cashing In with Network
http://www.myfoxchicago.com/dpp/money/Network_marketing_sales_consultant
Cashing In with Network
Marketing
Updated: Monday, 08 Jun 2009, 7:24 PM CDT
Published : Monday, 08 Jun 2009, 7:24 PM CDT
When the economy took a hit, so did Warren Preis's auto repair shop on Chicago's North Side. "We're definitely down in volume not like what it was." So to make extra money, Preis started selling for Arbonne International.
It's a health and beauty products company that relies on a network of sales consultants who recruit other consultants. The more sales people Preis recruits, the bigger his earning potential.
"I've heard that it's pretty obnoxious, it could be a lot of money it could be 6 digits a year."
If you think this sounds like a pyramid scheme...you're not alone..but UIC marketing expert Charles King says its legit.
"That's a industry that is very powerful, very credible but most of our consumers don't understand anything about it." The business model is called network marketing...or multi-level marketing.
Companies like Amway, Mary Ky and Pampered Chef operate the same way. They allow you to be your own boss. You sell at your own pace and best of all, can never be fired. King believes safety net jobs like these will become an economic necessity.
"I argue that in the next decade were going to be working on a two income model not two family incomes, but two incomes per person."
But before you join a network marketing company do your homework.
Experts advise that you research the company and make sure belongs to the direct selling association. It imposes strict standards for these companies.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Some good advice from ENVP Deanna Osborne
We’ve dealt with the economy and discovered that not only are we one of the few companies in the US that is predicting growth in 2009 but that we are also able to meet the needs of thousands of families who have seen their incomes, 401K’s, retirement plans, investments etc decline or disappear. Now we are faced with a possible flu pandemic which appears to be gaining ground globally. My husband, Dr. Chris Osborn came home from the office today and reported to me that their office saw 2 probable cases of H1N1 flu(swine flu). That is what has prompted this email to you. I wanted to point out that Arbonne has some great products that really do make a difference when people are dealing with the flu. These are items that you may want to recommend to your clients or even have some on hand in case. The list is based on personal and clinical experience.
Flu Necessities:
1. Protein Powders….this may surprise you but we believe Arbonne’s protein shakes are a great “emergency preparedness product”. They are a perfect food source, have an expiration date of about 2 years out and are the most bang for your buck when you just can’t get out of the house. Protein is essential to support the immune system. This product also has Omega 3 essential fatty acids, CoQ10, alpha lipoic acid and more! All of which boost the immune system and fight infection.
2. Remedy Line…. especially the Get well Soon to boost immune system, the Herbal Vapor Soak and Vapor Rub. This is a respiratory flu and the Vapor Soak and Rub can help with respiratory symptoms like stuffy nose, chest congestion etc.
3. NRGGO3 Fizz Tabs. Many of you have heard the story of my husband who had the flu in Feb of 2008. He felt terrible and I recommended that he take the Fizz tabs. They had just been launched by Arbonne and I had the flu while on a ski trip. I used them and didn’t miss a single day of skiing. I fixed him a fizz tab drink, went to the grocery store and when I arrived back he met me at the door..as a different person. He said, “ In fifteen minutes I went from being on the floor, feeling like I had been hit by a truck to feeling normal”. He took a load of fizz tabs to work the next week as the flu continued to spread.
4. Detox Spa line….This is one of my favorite lines. While at NTC Peter shared with us some statistics on the Detox Line. One was that it increased the immune system. Through increasing circulation(the Stimulate part) you can help your body to heal more quickly and release endorphins that help you to feel better.
5. Detox Tea is great for sore throats and helps your body eliminate toxins from the kidney and liver. I give this to my kids when they have a high fever and are taking Motrin or Tylenol to bring the fever down. Motrin is metabolized by the kidney and Tylenol by the liver.
6. Hybrids…..No better overall defense. Complete nutrition in a packet. We’ve got all the bases covered with this product.
7. A new product that I must add to my list but that I not available until May 15th is the Clear Advantage Dietary Supplement. I’m excited about the reformulation of this product. It now contains CoEnzyme Q10 and Reveratrol in addition to Vitamin C and E and some other ingredients. Resveratrol is something that plants can make to fight off infections that are bacterial, viral and fungal. Arbonne says in their literature that it boosts the immune system. Both Resveratrol and CoQ10 are great for the heart as well but that is not our focus here.
These are my favorites. I’m sure there are others that could be added. We don’t know what direction this thing will go but we are being told we will likely be dealing with it for awhile. The key to treatment for this flu is to get a prescription for Tamiflu within 48 hours of symptom onset. Most people start with a headache, fever and body aches. To get a prescription at this point you have to visit your doctor so they can culture you. If the flu continues to spread they will likely start calling the prescription in. If someone in your family is diagnosed with the flu, the close family contacts can take Tamiflu to prevent infection with the virus. You guys know I’m not big on drugs but in this case I would take it. We want everyone to be happy and healthy. If it comes down to the point that it is not in our best interest to visit the grocery store where there will be germs on cart handles and the kids say “Hey mom, what’s for dinner?!” The answer becomes, “Arbonne Protein Shake! Would you like Chocolate or Vanilla?!”
Love you guys!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Toxins Common in Baby Products
Report: Toxins Common in Baby Products
Salynn Boyles
WebMD Health News 2009. © 2009 WebMD Inc.
March 13, 2009 — You aren’t likely to see the chemicals formaldehyde and 1,4-dioxane listed on the labels of baby bath products, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t there, a consumer group is warning.
More than half of children’s bath soaps, shampoos, lotions, and other personal care products tested by the group Campaign for Safe Cosmetics (CSC) were found to contain 1,4-dioxane and formaldehyde, according to a report released today.
Both of the chemicals are considered probable carcinogens by the Environmental Protection Agency.
Because they are not intentionally added by manufacturers, there is no requirement that product labels list the chemicals when they are present.
There are also no federal restrictions on allowable levels of the chemicals in body care products, but several other countries do not allow the chemicals at any level.
The European Union has banned 1,4-dioxane from cosmetic products. And formaldehyde is not allowed in cosmetics sold in Japan and Sweden.
“Manufacturers could easily remove these toxic byproducts, but they are not required to do so under federal cosmetics safety standards,” Sonya Lunder, MPH, of CSC and the Environmental Working Group tells WebMD.
Lunder says there is no simple way for parents to tell if the baby bath products they are purchasing contain the chemical byproducts. In an earlier test, CSC found that many products labeled “natural” or “organic” contained 1,4-dioxane.
“The main thing parents can do is use fewer body care products on their children or look for those products with fewer ingredients,” she says. “Labels that say ‘gentle’ or ‘pure’ or even ‘organic’ don’t really tell you much.”
61% of Products Had Both Chemicals
The CSC had 48 baby and child personal care products tested for 1,4-dioxane, which occurs as a byproduct of a chemical process used to make petroleum-based cosmetic ingredients gentler to the skin.
The products were chosen because they contained ingredients most likely to produce the chemical.
Twenty-eight products were tested for 1,4-dioxane and formaldehyde, which occurs when preservatives commonly used in cosmetic products break down.
According to the report:
- Seventeen out of 28 products tested (61%) were found to contain both formaldehyde and 1,4-dioxane.
- Twenty-three out of 28 products (82%) contained formaldehyde, and 32 of 48 products (67%) contained 1,4-dioxane.
- Baby Magic “Soft Baby Scent” Lotion contained the highest levels of formaldehyde found in the testing. Two samples of the lotion contained 570 and 610 parts per million (ppm) of the chemical. The report noted that a formaldehyde level above 500 ppm would require a warning label in Europe.
- Several samples of “American Girl” shower products, sold by Bath & Body Works, contained the highest levels of 1,4-dioxane found in the test.
- Best-selling products found to contain both chemical contaminants included Johnson’s Baby Shampoo, Sesame Street Bubble Bath, Grins & Giggles Milk & Honey Baby Wash and Huggies Naturally Refreshing Cucumber & Green Tea Baby Wash.
Cleveland Clinic dermatologist Wilma Bergfeld, MD, leads the Cosmetic Ingredient Review, an industry funded, government-backed panel that assesses the safety of ingredients used in cosmetics.
She tells WebMD that if the CSC report is accurate, it suggests that manufacturers are not doing a good enough job of removing 1,4-dioxane from their products.
“Dioxane should not be in any baby care or children’s cosmetic, period, because it is possible to take it out,” she says. “Formaldehyde is a different story.”
She says the formaldehyde levels cited in the report were well within what has been shown to be safe.
The review panel recommends that formaldehyde levels in personal care products should not exceed 2,000 ppm. The highest level of formaldehyde found in any single product tested by the CSC was 610 ppm.
“We know from animal and human studies that this level is safe and can be used in all ages, with the exception of people with formaldehyde sensitivities,” she says.
Baby Care Companies Respond
The Baby Magic line of bath products has been sold since the testing was done, and a spokeswoman for Naterra International Inc., the company that now markets the products, tells WebMD that the tested lotion has been reformulated.
Melanie Dean-Valdez says the product formulations tested by the CSC are no longer being sold.
In a statement issued late Wednesday by Johnson & Johnson, the company charged that the report “inaccurately characterized the safety of our products” and “unnecessarily alarms parents.”
“The trace levels of certain compounds found by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics can result from processes that make our products gentle for babies and safe from bacteria growth,” the statement notes. "The FDA and other government agencies around the world consider these trace levels safe, and all our products meet or exceed the regulatory requirements for every country where they are sold.”
Limited Brands, which owns Bath & Body Works, issued a statement Thursday noting that the company complies “with all applicable regulations and is committed to selling only the safest and highest-quality products.”
More Industry Response
In an interview with WebMD, a spokesman for the cosmetics industry group Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) was highly critical of the CSC report.
“I am very alarmed that they would make these accusations and not back it up with solid science,” says chemist John Bailey, PhD. “The report included no details about how this testing was done.”
Bailey noted that the levels of the two chemicals found in the CSC analysis are well below established safety limits.
In a written statement, the cosmetics industry group characterized the CSC report as “incomplete and alarmist.”
“Allegations that commonly used baby products are somehow contaminated with harmful levels of carcinogenic chemicals are patently false and a shameful and cynical attempt by an activist group to incite and prey upon parental worries and concerns in order to push a political, legislative, and legal agenda,” the statement notes.
The CSC report calls for stronger government regulation to prohibit toxic contaminants in baby and other personal care products. And it calls on the industry to reformulate their products to remove the contaminants.
Bailey tells WebMD that manufacturers do take reasonable steps to keep levels of the chemical byproducts “well below that which would be considered harmful,” but he adds that it is unrealistic to expect that they can be completely eliminated from all products.
SOURCES:
Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: “No More Toxic Tub: Getting Contaminants Out of Children’s Bath and Personal Care Products.”
Sonya Lunder, MPH, senior analyst, Environmental Working Group.
John Bailey, PhD, chief scientist, Personal Care Products Council.
Melanie Dean-Valdez, spokeswoman, Naterra International Inc.
Iris Grossman, spokeswoman, Johnson & Johnson.
Jennifer Ortiz Brown, spokeswoman, Limited Brands.
News release, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics.
Wilma F. Bergfeld, MD, senior dermatologist, Cleveland Clinic; chairwoman, Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Dirty Jobs...
Here is a YouTube video that my upline forwarded to me.I thought it was very eye-opening as to what kind of things are put in most of the products here in the USA.
Pure, Safe and Beneficial
Arbonne International is a Swiss skincare and wellness company dedicated to promoting products that are Pure, Safe & Beneficial.
The Arbonne Difference Premium Skin Care Products
FORMULATED IN SWITZERLAND MADE IN THE USA
Arbonne premium skin care products are formulated in Switzerland at the Arbonne Institute of Research and Development (AIRD) and made in the U.S.A.
Their proprietary formulas are:
• Botanically-based: A proprietary blending of science and nature based on herbal and botanical principles.
• pH correct: Skin care pH of 5.5 insures maximum benefit.
• Hypoallergenic: Voluntary human testing meets Hypoallergenic substantiation claim criteria.
• Dermatologist tested: Voluntary human tests done under the watchful eye of an independent Dermatologist.
• Never tested on animals: Voluntary substantiation and safety testing is performed at independent laboratories on human panels.
• Formulated without animal products or by-products: Plants and herbs together with science and technology offer superior benefits.
• Formulated without mineral oil: Occlusive oil that can interfere with skin functions as well as advanced delivery systems.
• Formulated without dyes or chemical fragrances: Dyes and Fragrances are known irritants and can cause allergic reactions.*
*From time to time, Arbonne will incorporate fragrance in specialty bath and body skin care products. This inclusion will be clearly marked as fragrance on the ingredient list. Keep in mind, all products must pass voluntary Repeat Insult Patch Tests to insure safety to the consumer prior to introduction.
Scientifically Advanced Nutrition ProductsBased on similar principles that propelled the success of their skin care products, Arbonne expanded into total body care with Arbonne Bio-Nutria®. Developed for every stage of life, these nutrition, weight management, fitness, life enhancement and remedy products are convenient, safe and backed by the latest scientific research.
These Products Contain:
• The finest pharmaceutical grade ingredients
• Standardized botanicals and herbs
• Proprietary herbal blends that work synergistically with active components for optimal results
All of Arbonne’s dietary supplements are formulated:
• To meet U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) disintegration time standards (30 minutes)
• Without colors, starch, yeast, caffeine, preservatives or salt
• To provide maximum absorption with highly bio-available ingredients
The Arbonne Product Guarantee
They are so confident that you will love their products. Clients may return products within 45 days from the date of purchase, for any reason.
The Arbonne Difference Premium Skin Care Products
FORMULATED IN SWITZERLAND MADE IN THE USA
Arbonne premium skin care products are formulated in Switzerland at the Arbonne Institute of Research and Development (AIRD) and made in the U.S.A.
Their proprietary formulas are:
• Botanically-based: A proprietary blending of science and nature based on herbal and botanical principles.
• pH correct: Skin care pH of 5.5 insures maximum benefit.
• Hypoallergenic: Voluntary human testing meets Hypoallergenic substantiation claim criteria.
• Dermatologist tested: Voluntary human tests done under the watchful eye of an independent Dermatologist.
• Never tested on animals: Voluntary substantiation and safety testing is performed at independent laboratories on human panels.
• Formulated without animal products or by-products: Plants and herbs together with science and technology offer superior benefits.
• Formulated without mineral oil: Occlusive oil that can interfere with skin functions as well as advanced delivery systems.
• Formulated without dyes or chemical fragrances: Dyes and Fragrances are known irritants and can cause allergic reactions.*
*From time to time, Arbonne will incorporate fragrance in specialty bath and body skin care products. This inclusion will be clearly marked as fragrance on the ingredient list. Keep in mind, all products must pass voluntary Repeat Insult Patch Tests to insure safety to the consumer prior to introduction.
Scientifically Advanced Nutrition ProductsBased on similar principles that propelled the success of their skin care products, Arbonne expanded into total body care with Arbonne Bio-Nutria®. Developed for every stage of life, these nutrition, weight management, fitness, life enhancement and remedy products are convenient, safe and backed by the latest scientific research.
These Products Contain:
• The finest pharmaceutical grade ingredients
• Standardized botanicals and herbs
• Proprietary herbal blends that work synergistically with active components for optimal results
All of Arbonne’s dietary supplements are formulated:
• To meet U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) disintegration time standards (30 minutes)
• Without colors, starch, yeast, caffeine, preservatives or salt
• To provide maximum absorption with highly bio-available ingredients
The Arbonne Product Guarantee
They are so confident that you will love their products. Clients may return products within 45 days from the date of purchase, for any reason.
Arbonne International
Welcome to my Arbonne blog! I just joined Arbonne International a little over a month ago! So until I can afford my 'Official' Arbonne site I will start with this one! Plus I thought that I could post all kinds of interesting things I find out that pertain to skin care here! More to come soon!
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