Lifestyle
MLM Cult Tactics You Should Know
It might seem a little hyperbolic to say that MLMs (multi-level marketing schemes) are cults. It’s not. MLM cult tactics are very real and very dangerous.
Much of our collective understanding of what makes a cult is based on what we’ve seen in the news. Mass suicides, violent stand-offs with law enforcement, and jumping on Oprah’s couch can all be traced back to those wacky, scary cults.
MLMs just sell make-up, diet shakes, or leggings. How are they anything like those scary, wacky cults?
MLMs, while they may not shave their heads and commit mass suicide, rely on tactics that are nearly identical to those very same cults. Here are some MLM cult tactics you really should know.
They Prey On Vulnerable People
You are at your highest risk of being recruited into a cult or MLM if you’re in a vulnerable state. These states can be financial pressure, a dead-end job, loneliness, and others. It’s when you’re feeling low and desperate for help that attracts these organizations like blood in the water.
A cult or an MLM will approach you with a solution to your problem, and they’ll do it with a smile.
While a cult targets spirituality, MLMs target finance and work. They will lure vulnerable people in with a seemingly safe, welcoming, and exciting environment. This is what you’ve been looking for, they’ll say.
They Promise Secrets To Success
Every MLM and cult member is told: “all you have to do is A, B, and C and you’ll be successful.” For cults, it’s enlightenment or freedom. For MLMs, it’s financial independence or self-reliance. These organizations make these grand promises if you follow everything you’re told.
If you aren’t seeing success, well, I guess you just have “a lack of faith,” “negative mindset,” or “you didn’t work hard enough.”
Charismatic “Guru” Leaders Are Infallible
The leader can do no wrong. They are geniuses and they are sharing their wisdom with you. Their words are repeated, memorized, and cherished. Any challenge to them would be unthinkable. They are to be protected and lionized.
The most notable example would be NXIVM’s Keith Raniere. A former Amway executive, Raniere turned his self-help MLM into a literal cult and then a cult within a cult. But that’s an entirely different, far more disturbing story.
They Tell You To ‘Reject The Haters’
One MLM cult tactic that is disturbingly transparent would be their insistence of purging anyone who doesn’t buy into the message.
Cults tell you that the group is your family and friends and that your actual family and friends are hurting you. MLMs call them “negative people” or “haters” that are “standing in the way of your success.
This is how these organizations control the information you take in. If they can limit as much of the “outside world” as they can, the easier their indoctrination can take hold.
Shady Structures Keep Members Hooked
There need to be incentives to keep people in line. MLMs often promise confusing and repetitive promotional structures. This keeps followers believing and always moving up the never-ending “ladder of success.”
Amway, for example, has “pin levels” like Silver, Gold, Ruby, Pearl, Sapphire, Emerald, Diamond, Executive Diamond, and so on. ItWorks uses Double Diamond, Triple Diamond, Presidential Diamond. NXIVM had different colored sashes. Having a tangible reward works wonders as an incentive.
Whenever the pyramid shape begins to reveal itself (and it will), MLMs use the straw man argument that “all corporations have a pyramid shape too.”
Sure, Jan. Except those employees are promoted based on performance, not how many units they sell.
Fear Tactics Are Standard
MLMs and cults will use passive-aggressive techniques to shame, slander, and discredit members who speak up or try to leave. They will threaten to take everything away from you. They exploit Dr. Karl Albrecht’s 5 Basic Fears and often with success.
You’re either with them or against them. And they mean it.
It Takes Over Your Life
MLM members are intensely pressured to speak about their company and experience in order to convert others to join. They will incessantly promote or mention their MLM in every conversation. They’ll use MLM products and discuss them with you ad nauseam.
You will live and breathe the MLM, much like you would in a cult. Your entire world is the MLM and you must share it with the world.
LuLaRoe demanded control of their members’ social media, weight, marriages, and more. If anything positive happened in your life, it was #BecauseOfLuLaRoe.
They Demand Absolute Devotion
There’s no room in an MLM for dissent. They will tell you that absolute devotion is the key to success. Even when confronted with facts, a true believer will reject them. They may even dig deeper.
The FLDS, the infamous polygamist cult led by Warren Jeffs, instructed its followers to “keep sweet.” This meant to “demonstrate loyalty and absolute obedience to someone, even if it means unspeakable harm.”
The MLM Cult Tactics Are Very Real
MLMs need to use cult tactics in order to sustain themselves. This is ironic considering that MLMs are inherently unsustainable. In order to blind members from the scam, MLMs have to radicalize them. Cult tactics are tried and true.
Humans are predictable sheep. Predators take advantage of that. MLMs and cults are predatory organizations that harm the most vulnerable among us.
Take note of these MLM cult tactics and protect yourself from these incredibly harmful organizations.
Starting your fitness journey this year will be your wisest decision. Whether you visit your nearby gym or do it at home, using the right exercise equipment is crucial. But don’t go overboard when you’re doing the latter! Our fitness buffs have your back! We’ve tried some of the best fitness equipment of 2024, and here’s our list.
1. Fitness watch
Getting a fitness watch should be your first tool when starting your fitness journey. It lets you record your daily activities, check the calories burned, remind you to move, and track everything you do—even your heart rate! Apple offers fitness watches that also sync with your phone, but here are some affordable ones on Amazon:
Fitbit Sense 2 – $299.95
Garmin Epix Pro – $1,099.99
2. Resistance bands
Resistance bands are portable and affordable if you’re always on the go. They promote strength training and also improve stability.
Fit Simplify – $9.95
WSAKOUE Resistance Bands – $29.99
3. Kettblebells
If you frequent home workouts, getting a kettlebell can let you exercise with less fitness equipment. It can improve strength, power, and endurance. Kettlebells are excellent for developing overall fitness.
Amazon Cast Iron Kettlebell – $17.40
WeGym Soft Kettlebells – $169.99
4. Pull-up bar
A pull-up bar is one of the best fitness equipment at home. It’s convenient, and you can move it around. This is also great if you want to work on your upper body strength.
Ally Peaks Pull-up Bar – $31.89
Sportneer Pull-up Bar – $39.99
5. Exercise bike
If you’re willing to invest in extensive fitness equipment, an exercise bike should be one of the first things to get. It offers multiple benefits, primarily working on your cardiovascular fitness! Getting on an exercise bike every morning, even for 30 minutes daily. This fitness tool is excellent for strengthening your legs and burning calories!
Yosuda Exercise Bike – $249.99
Ativafit Folding Exercise Bike – $365.49
6. Treadmill
If you’re fond of running, getting a treadmill is a way to do it regularly. Sometimes, weather conditions prevent you from going outside to run. With a treadmill on standby, you can do it anytime while watching TV, listening to music, or watching over your children.
Umay Folding Treadmill – $319.99
NordicTrack T Series – $2,999
7. Rowing machine
If there is one fitness equipment I make a beeline for at my local gym, it’s a rowing machine. This equipment might seem simple, but a few rows on this bad boy will leave you feeling like you ran for miles. A rowing machine is excellent for endurance training and a great full-body workout.
Yosuda Rowing Machine – $299.99
Snode Rowing Machine – $399.99
8. Dumbbells
Dumbbells are the most versatile fitness equipment you can have around the house. Whether you’re doing circuits or weightlifting, dumbbells will surely elevate your workout routine. You can perform different kinds of exercise programs with dumbbells! Plus, it helps you gain muscles, lose weight, and boost your overall health.
Amazon Basics Dumbbells – $14.93
ProForm Dumbbell Set – $299
9. Step platform
Using a step platform is a form of low-impact workout. This could be a cardio workout alternative if you’re worried about regular jogging or running impacting your joints. It works both your upper and lower body strength!
Yes4All Step Platform – $48.99
Yes4All Step Platform – $18.99
10. Yoga mat
You can’t start your fitness journey without a yoga mat. Getting one lets you perform exercises wherever, whenever! This is an excellent fitness companion for your cooldown exercises or stretching routines.
Amazon Basics Yoga Mat – $20.19
Manduka Pro Yoga Mat – $136.76
Getting a reliable robot vacuum means you can lay around on your couch while the cleaner does the heavy lifting! Our team searched high and low for the best robot vacuum, and we can say we enjoyed testing them! Here are our top 10 picks for the robot vacuums of 2024.
1. iRobot Roomba j7+
The Roomba j7+ is the best robot vacuum overall. It features self-emptying capabilities, intelligent navigation, and an easy-to-use app. Despite being loud and having average battery life, it recognizes up to 80 household objects, ensuring your home gets cleaned while avoiding cords and shoes. PrecisionVision Navigation and the P.O.O.P. guarantee add to its appeal.
Price:
- $642.80 on Amazon
2. iRobot Roomba s9+
We all agree that this is the best robot vacuum for pet hair. It features a D-shaped design for corner cleaning, exceptional suction power, and an auto-empty base. Though expensive and with average battery life, it offers 40 times power-lifting suction, 30% wider dual multi-surface rubber brushes, and Dirt Detect technology for tackling excessive pet hair and dirt.
Price:
- $899.99 on Amazon
3. Eufy S1 Pro
If you’re looking for a robot vacuum with powerful suction, look no further. The Eufy S1 Pro boasts an 8,000PA suction and self-washing mop head for unparalleled cleaning efficiency. Intelligent mapping ensures precision, while speed and effectiveness set it apart. Despite being expensive and loud, its cutting-edge self-cleaning technology and power make it a top-tier choice.
Price:
- $999 on Kickstarter
4. Shark ION AV751
If you need a robot vacuum on a tight budget, the Shark ION AV751 is for you. This robot vacuum offers excellent suction power and a 120-minute run time. Its tri-brush system and stair/cliff edge detection make it efficient. Alexa and Google Assistant integration adds convenience, making it a manageable option for those seeking simplicity.
Price:
- $319.99 on Amazon
5. Neato Botvac D8
The Neato D8, known for its D-shaped design, excels in corner cleaning and advanced mapping. Ideal for smaller homes, it offers 100-minute battery life and a lidar for space mapping. The app supports no-go zones and scheduling, though it can’t map multiple floors and may climb low furniture and ledges.
Price:
- $699.99 on Amazon
6. Bobsweep PetHair Vision
Designed for pet owners, this vacuum excels at pet hair removal and offers smart navigation and mopping capabilities. Its quiet operation and three-inch height allow easy cleaning under furniture. With longer battery life, it efficiently covers large areas. The drawback? Its cleaning schedule may reset unexpectedly, and customer service follow-through can be slow.
Price:
- $399.99 on Amazon
7. Dreame X30 Ultra
This best 2-in-1 vacuum and mop offers quiet, self-emptying, dual oscillating mop heads and MopExtend mop pads. Although it has an app that’s not very user-friendly and is expensive with recurring costs, it provides comprehensive cleaning of all surfaces. Its multi-functional base station and 8300PA suction power ensure efficient home maintenance.
Price:
- $1,399.99 on Amazon
8. Samsung Jet Bot AI+
If you don’t mind the bulky size, the Samsung Jet Bot AI+ is a good robot vacuum option. Its self-cleaning base adds convenience. This robot vacuum has an attractive design and advanced AI for obstacle avoidance.
Price:
- $899.99 on Amazon
9. Dyson 360 Heurist
The Dyson 360 Heurist offers exceptional cleaning power with solid suction and intelligent mapping. This premium robot vacuum reaches edges effectively, thanks to its motorized brush. Though slow to set up, its precise map fine-tuning and methodical cleaning make it a top choice.
Price:
- $399.99 on Amazon
10. Roborock S8 Pro Ultra
Nothing is more self-sufficient than this all-in-one robot vacuum. It’s self-cleaning, self-emptying, self-washing, self-drying, and self-refilling! Plus, it uses VibraRise mopping and customizable cleaning routines.
Price:
$949.99 on Amazon
Do you need a good night’s sleep but your mattress is ruining that? It’s time to find a brand-new mattress to relieve yourself of the stress of the day and doze off without a hitch. Learn more about the Bedstory 12-inch Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress and what people think about the product here!
BedStory
BedStory has helped millions of sleepers get quality sleep with their mattresses, pillows, and toppers. Since 1983, the company has sold its products to over 90+ countries. Plus, they ensure that only state-of-the-art technology makes it to their products to improve people’s sleep. Additionally, their product line is made in the USA, ensuring quality standards are met every time new products are manufactured.
Specifications
Price: $369.99 to 559.99 (tax included)
Mattress Sizes
The BedStory Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress comes in four sizes: twin, full, queen, and king. Plus, it comes in 12 or 14-inch sizes, too.
Mattress Layers
Have a restful sleep with six layers of comfort. The soft-knit fabric is on top that helps your mattress breathe. Plus, it keeps you cool while you sleep. It has a fire-resistant barrier and the gel bamboo charcoal memory foam. Plus, it has high-density foam, pocket springs, and base foam.
Lumbar Support
Have terrible back pain and want to alleviate it during sleep? BedStory has lumbar support embedded in its mattress. Pocket coils and orthopedic foam act as lumbar support while you slumber.
Cooler and More Refreshing Sleep
Their memory foam infuses gel and bamboo, making it feel cool on your body as you sleep soundly. It’s also made out of knitted fabric to let the mattress breathe. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about odors since it has moisture-wicking and odor-reducing properties. Plus, it also dissipates heat.
Motion Isolation
Do you or your partner toss and turn all night long and can’t get a wink of sleep? BedStory reduces the noise of joints shuffling all around. It’s all because the springs absorb any noise that could disturb your slumber.
Mattress Expansion
Since this is a bed in a box, it will take time for your brand-new mattress to expand to its original state. The BedStory mattress expands within 48 to 72 hours.
Delivery, Warranty, and Return
Expect your brand-new BedStory Mattress to arrive within 2 to 5 business days! The wait will all be worth it once it arrives at your doorstep.
Your BedStory Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress will have a 10-year warranty.
Regarding returns, you can try sleeping on the new mattress for 30 nights’ worth of sleep. However, if you’re not fully satisfied with the mattress, a return is possible within a 100-night window.
Certifications
You’ll be safe and sound when sleeping on a BedStory mattress since it’s CetriPUR-US and OEKO-TEX Certified. This ensures that you’re sleeping on a mattress without any harmful chemicals.
Recommended Bedframes
BedStory suggests that you can place the memory foam mattress on a platform, box spring, or slatted frame bedframe for an optimized sleeping experience. You want to make sure that you’re putting the bed on a solid bedframe to let the mattress expand properly and let you sleep without any disruptions.
The Ideal Sleepers
Like many products, the mattress isn’t a one-size-fits-all. Not everyone will enjoy their slumber with this mattress. However, it’s good to know who’ll love sleeping in this bed all day long.
- Light and sensitive sleepers
- Babies
- Elders
- People experiencing regular joint aches and pains
Maintaining The BedStory Mattress
Most beds last seven to ten years. After all, it’s expensive to change mattresses regularly. During your sleep tenure with BedStory, you can care for it to make your mattress last long. Here are tips from BedStory to help you maintain the mattress.
- Don’t eat on the bed
- Use a vacuum to remove dirt or debris
- Spot clean stains using detergent
- Put a mattress protector
- Rotate the mattress to avoid further wear and tear. Rotate it every 3 to 6 months
- Air out the mattress
- Don’t jump on the bed
What Do Sleepers Think?
BedStory sleepers love the mattress firmness. It’s medium-firm, so if you’re looking for something soft, you’re better off buying a mattress topper to make it soft. Plus, some sleepers find it easy to sleep faster. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about aches and pains upon waking up or during the middle of the night.
However, BedStory isn’t for everyone. For instance, some sleepers find that the mattress doesn’t expand or inflate to its actual size. Other sleepers say that firmness isn’t enough for them. Plus, other sleepers experience aches and pains while sleeping on this mattress.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the BEST mattress is essential to getting a good night’s sleep. The BedStory Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress could be the next mattress to grace your bedframe. Many sleepers rave over the mattress since they sleep easier, faster, and better. Plus, some experience less or no pain upon waking up, which is a game-changer for many sleepers. Finally, it’s value for money considering the specs. You don’t need to change your mattress regularly. Plus, you can return the mattress if it’s not a good fit!
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Sunny
January 7, 2023 at 10:01 am
Good article! Sad to say, but cult-like brainwashing has been used by the extremely wealthy owners of most older MLM companies and most top-earning MLM distributors for 50++ years. It is not a new practice. Newer companies are using their methods. Most people are unsophisticated in MLM tactics and most have no idea what they are really getting themselves into when joining. New distributors see potential needed income and blindly follow what they learn in the trainings they attend. These unsuspecting people get sucked into an MLM funnel. (May be more like a black hole.) Extremely wealthy MLM company owners and top-earning MLM distributors know exactly how to keep THEIR funnels full (of people) so THEIR huge royalty checks continue. People unsophisticated in MLM tactics will continue to be recruited indefinitely, until the extremely wealthy MLM company owners and the top-earning MLM distributors are held accountable by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for using cult-like recruiting and training tactics. In my opinion, not much will change in the MLM industry until that happens…