MLM HORROR STORIES #25 | Herbalife rep stealing money, faking a luxury lifestyle at the top

[@kkspoons7523]

I'm currently "in" a mlm. I've been watching your videos and now I'm trying to get out. Thank you.

[@haleytruslow7200]

I’m glad you’re seeing the light!! Good luck.

[@kkspoons7523]

Me too! Thank you!

[@mol7825]

Good luck girl, rooting for you 💗

[@kkspoons7523]

I appreciate that, thank you 😊

[@lannawolf1864]

Good luck! This is a great place to be. Definitely have your bases covered! Maybe even ask some of these channels that have BEEN in them also for advice on getting out?

[@haleytruslow7200]

Hey Hannah, I’m the one who wrote in about my mom climbing to the top of liberty league. I can absolutely say for certain that having her as a mother- and having a mother who worked 24/7- skewed my perception of what is normal. I used to think that kids whose moms made them breakfast and helped them with homework were just spoiled and coddled. Now I know that that is just normal parenting. On a side note, I ended up becoming a teacher so that I could be a support system for kids like me- kids who didn’t have an adult they could trust at home. I know you’re a teacher too so it’s a cool connection :) I work with parent education programs now. I teach a 13 week parenting course that is usually court ordered for parents who have a case open with DCF. The detrimental affects of having my mom as my mom were pervasive. The MLM didn’t make her a bad person, but the structure of an MLM is perfect for a narcissist to climb to the top. They get narcissistic supply from everyone underneath them. She was practically worshipped at Liberty League. Anyway, thank you so much for sharing! I can’t get enough of your videos ❤️

[@Michelle-zz7no]

Thank you for all you do to help your students and to help parents!! God bless!! ❤️

[@pattipeters9861]

I am so glad you’re doing well! Keep up the good work!

[@brookekivi]

Your story was so important to hear. It’ll only be more so as this new generation of kids growing up with a top MLM parent(s) and kids of family KZbinrs come to age. Thanks for sharing it with us.

[@Dank951]

You are a kind human being and I hope that you get everything you seek, want, and desire in life. RESPECT!

[@judyyougotthis]

I’m sorry you had such a rough start, but so glad you made it through and are able to help others in tough spots…you’re an inspiration! 💗💗💗

[@lauraellen189]

The poor girl with depression was actually a victim of child abuse even if it was unintended by the mother.

[@tobypossum7386]

Yeah, that mother was absolutely abusive. It's good that the girl isn't around her anymore

[@avriljane1152]

That story made me cry! Awful

[@MeganLar]

I hate it when your lonely and want a friend and someone askes you out for a coffee and they spew a mlm all over you. It's so disappointing

[@GabrielleHutson]

☕️🤗 I'll be your friend.

[@gabrielle4152]

That's soul crushing, I'm sorry. Try to internalize the fact that it reflects badly on them, not on you. What shameful tactics...

[@mikesanders8621]

We literally have a loneliness epidemic right now. Social media killed social interaction.

[@manifestationsofasort]

That DoTerra story is horrifying and infuriating. In my (very unprofessional) opinion, taking a child out of therapy and off of meds in favor of oils, as well as telling traumatic stories to people they don't know and telling them to a room of random people, is abuse.

[@priscilalondon]

Exactly. That’s abuse. I hate it when people make excuses for abusive mothers as if they were innocent bystanders brainwashed and victimized. No. The mother knows that she was lying to shill her MLM. She chose to use her daughter for her own benefit. That is psychopathic behavior.

[@huntasoup]

Yes, and taking someone off their psych meds cold turkey is a very dangerous thing to do.

[@briancrawford8751]

@@priscilalondon I agree. I don't like it that Hannah acted like the woman was totally under the control of that MLM. She certainly had primary responsibility for what she did, and it was criminal behavior. Taking the girl off her meds was stupid and delusional and misguided, but as soon as she used the girl for personal financial gain, it was clear to me it was criminal.

[@raven4090]

I was thinking it was abuse as well, and was relieved that the girl got out of that situation and got proper treatment.

[@carolsummers8734]

The mom bought in to the supposed power of the oils without any medical and pharmaceutical education. The danger of the cult the mom bought into.

[@jilliank4157]

It's surprising there's so few horror stories for children of MLM parents. I have never sent mine in because my trauma brain can't remember the details enough. I do remember having stock piles of Amway laundry detergent, but no food in the fridge. I do remember the awkward presentations in the living room that no one was interested in. Most of all I remember the embarrassment because even me ages 11-15 knew Amway wasn't normal.

[@FullMoonOctober]

I'm actually pretty concerned about that, myself. Maybe the brainwashing took, or something happened to prevent them from speaking out. Scary to think about.

[@jilliank4157]

@@FullMoonOctober my family was very focused on keeping secrets and not "tattling" as are many families of dysfunction, you carry it into adulthood. My 4 siblings wouldn't dare speak publicly the way I do about our experience with Amway.

[@lemonywater2979]

I'm very sorry. Seems like a really really awful living situation to have been in.

[@msmagsmn]

I also love when Zeke is like 'Ok, it's time for me to be a part of things ' 😄

[@Neverquitsworkin1962]

Yes, my cat wants to know why there's another one on my computer making noise. That's her job.

[@littleshopofeldritchhorror6224]

@@Neverquitsworkin1962same, mine looks up an is like “we got another cat….where?”

[@rubigee4397]

I just love whenever someone’s being called out on their shitty behavior, they go for “I’m going through something right now!” to avoid taking accountability!!

[@LostStarzOfTheSky]

That old man listening in to this random mlm pitch and trying desperately to save op is a hero

[@meganrasey4377]

BETTING ON ZERO is a documentary about Herbalife. I think it is here on KZbin.

[@wplants9793]

Oooh I want to watch that one

[@justinkelsey9218]

@@wplants9793 the ending is sad it just goes to show that coin operated politics control our society more than the obligation to do the right thing for the good fo the people. They got a $200,000 fine and a butt chewing from the FTC when they should be in prison.

[@KitKat10281]

I was scammed by Herbalife back around 2000-2002ish 😢 I lost SO much money! 😔 still bitter to this day about it!

[@AnnieAnnieBuckwheatCakes]

I'm binging your MLM Horror Stories playlist. I'm starting to realize that the stress & anxiety caused by the monthly pressure & grind to recruit, buy mlm products & rank up creates desperate people who then act in these predatory ways. The people ensnared in the MLM model are forced to act like ghouls in order to strive for a false promise. MLMs should be illegal. It's a business model with narcissistic traits.

[@valid_sound_and_furious961]

You're very generous toward people who push MLMs, and I think there's a lot of grace in that....but I think sometimes we're letting people off the hook when we shouldn't. Especially the people who are really successful in these schemes, like ... they have to know, right? They do the scam too well to not know what they're doing. They may be victims, but they're also perpetrators, and the one doesn't excuse the other.

[@rebekahjimenez2808]

I don't know if that's true, except for maybe those at the very top. I think that most of them probably have the idea that since they were able to climb the ranks and make money, everyone under them should be able to do the same.

[@weirdlittlesister]

In my country there's a saying that essentially goes "you don't have to be stupid." Especially in the age of the internet people have the option to do background checks, at least search what they are going for on Google, or talk to people if they are concerned and unsure.

[@karenthebeekeeper5442]

I’m a retired tax accountant. Whenever I heard “I’m working for cash” or “I’m paying my employees cash” I would see so many red flags, I could hardly stand it. Employers don’t realize their liability exposure and employees don’t realize how much risk they are taking. It’s all fine between both parties until something bad happens. Not being covered for injury or unemployment benefits and not to paying their own taxes (if reporting income) are just two huge issues. I’ve had clients turned in to the IRS for paying employees as subcontractors. It gets pretty ugly. If they walk and talk like an employee, they probably are. Thank you for all the MLM exposure.

[@cheyc666]

I'm a tax accountant too and I've had similar experiences. I'm so fascinated with these "businesses" and the people that get swindled. Thank you for this comment.

[@meaganmorris5687]

This may sound odd but I have awful anxiety and there are several KZbinrs that I watch because I am calmed by their voice and content, you are one of those people for sure. You have informative and interesting videos and the tone and friendliness in your voice truly helps when I feel overwhelmed. Thank you for what you do!

[@kelseyholtz2213]

Same. ❤️

[@sophiebla9195]

Hope you get better 💖

[@DoraSometimes]

I'm glad you found something to cope with your anxiety. I sincerely wish you all the best. I know how tough it can be...

[@justinkelsey9218]

Same

[@catsnchem8130]

Same here! This might be my second or third time watching this exact video as she is currently on maternity leave.

[@katefriend4085]

I sometimes watch these videos over breakfast, during which my adorable pet bunny will come hopping up to my chair and mill around or put his paws against my lap to ask for bites of peach from my breakfast. He was doing that this morning when he suddenly stopped, got very still, and started twitching his ears with concern. Then I realized your cat was hanging out w you at that moment, and that he was making noise that the mic was picking up! Hooray for pets that make their presence known!!

[@KitKat10281]

Omg that's so sweet and cute! I had a BEAUTIFUL and SWEET little black and white bunny rabbit 🐇 a few years ago, and I miss her SO much! She did the same kind of silly little things! ❤

[@BlancaPerdomo]

Herbalife has a document where it breaks down the nutrition shop. The reps aren’t the owners (that’s not surprising). The reps take a class/course before being allowed to open up a store. The reps are the ones who take out the loans in order to do so. The way the reps are paid is PER CUSTOMER not hourly. Let’s say there are two “employees” working that day. Sally can only served one customer and not the next one cause it’s Peter’s turn to do so. The way they get around not being regulated is b/c Herbalife doesn’t allow it’s reps call their shops: cafes, restaurants or anything related to the food industry. They don’t promote via having Herbalife all over the store because they know everyone would be cut off. Hope this helps Hannah 🥰

[@CattyTomfoolery]

I see them come through at my job as merchants and plenty of them call themselves a cafe. Nutrition cafe.

[@jamiemiesler322]

I’m actually shocked that Herbal life is still around. I thought it died a slow death a long time ago but I guess not?

[@kellyinCT09]

They aren't supposed to do a lot of things...things much worse than their names and yet Herbalife allows it.

[@kristyrussell1748]

Hannah's channel blowing up! So proud of you girl! Good thing I got in early 😂😂

[@cuckoophendula8211]

Lol, I felt the same way when I subbed maybe 2 months ago xD

[@msmagsmn]

Hahaha, GROUND FLOOR OPPORTUNITY!! 😂😂😂

[@lmsutton09]

😂😂😂

[@patriciamccool5243]

😂😂😂

[@adriennemiranda7956]

It's awesome 😊 so fast

[@tarajh]

Round of applause for the old guy at the bar! Good looking out, dude 👏🏻

[@victoriaf.8420]

Omg kitty moments at 34:56 SO CUTE!!!

[@DoraDB]

35:04 once I’ve discovered your channel I’ve been binge watching it for 3 weeks now . I always rewind a few times when you communicate with your cats! It’s absolutely adorable and this time when you blew on a cats tail second time and asked :you don’t like it ? Zick (?) literally meowed : Nah! And then he meowed : Maama! I love you and your cats and bless you and you family !

[@solisinvictus4238]

Fun fact: my first introduction to Herbalife was in a homeless woman shelter in LA, they had somehow convicted a bunch of desperate women to buy and the shelter itself had a huge Herbalife banner and machine in the cafeteria. The cafeteria staff would occasionally give us unsold shakes in the morning...I had no Idea what it was until recently

[@FullMoonOctober]

Well that sounds predatory as hell--which is exactly the sort of thing an MLM would do.

[@maryeckel9682]

That is DISGUSTING

[@Anna-Rose-]

Hmm, was the shelter getting a kickback or something. Or is that normal...

[@annacobb1140]

Woooah. My whole brain exploded just now. Talk about a marginalized group of people. I wonder how wide spread this is especially in abuse shelters and what have you. I imagine in the right hands an "in" could be big business. So so sad

[@parshunakarki9690]

the

[@Emily-lq5mp]

The fact that Monat seems to be going downhill is so fascinating to me, a girl that was in my sorority is very high up in the company (top

[@kellyinCT09]

I am interested to know where that whole story ends up!

[@lowdown2256]

It’s giving… RBgals 🥴🥴🥴💀💀💀 If it is.. what she’s doing is SO wrong. Taking her whole downline into another MLM, while she climbs the ranks and promises wealth to everyone under her.. dumbster fire 2.0

[@MustAvoidScurvy]

17:00 Dear Hannah, years ago, my mom took me to a Bach Flowers "therapist" instead of a medical professional to treat my rampant depression and SH. So, unfortunately, that stupid choice making are not only happening in MLM's :( We need to break the stigma associated with mental health and REAL treatment.

[@evilphimie]

My mother did the same thing to me when I struggled with severe depression and undiagnosed c-PTSD. It was a nightmare

[@MustAvoidScurvy]

@@evilphimie I hope you are better now ♥️ Sending you a big hug

[@sunnyscott4876]

OMG......I have my own story..I actually ran into a "hun" in the wild yesterday. I was stunned. Never happened ever before. I was bored so I went to Hobby Lobby and Five Below just to wander around and kill some time. A lady at the cash register wearing a purple sweatshirt had some very pretty matching amethyst looking stretchy bracelets. They really looked nice and asked her if she made them (since we were so close to Hobby Lobby). She said "Oh no, I sell them. I am a Paprazzi consultant." I made a hasty retreat to my car. before she could get another word in. My very first encounter with a live MLM representative in the wild. I felt like I had dodged a bullet. !!! 🤯🤯🤯🤯

[@ColoradoLJ]

Oh my heart aches hearing about the mom forcing her child to use oils to cure trauma and chemical imbalances. I’m so glad you are alive and living a healthier life with the right kind of help. 💕 I picture my mom answering my own cries for help with anxiety differently. I want to scream at the top of my lungs. Knowing there are young people out there not getting actual help to these very dark and heavy issues, but rather being used as pawns in the capitalist game of being in an MLMs is disgusting 💔

[@tjreadsalot]

I love that you called it a chemical imbalance, it really helps people pause and be like oh, yeah, and be more accepting of conditions such as anxiety and depression which have such unwarranted stigmas attached to them

[@ReadAndThrift]

They tried opening one of those “nutrition clubs” in my small town of 500 people. It lasted a whole 5 months before they had to close. The worst part of it is that they took over what was an awesome ice cream place for years! So disappointing!

[@hailyjohnson407]

There's one in my city that has been around for a couple of years. As much as I'm anti-MLM, it took me until a few weeks ago to realize it was an Herbalife shop because they always do dine-to-donate events with sororities and fraternities on campus which made it seem more legit to me since the other companies that do those are Chick-fil-A and Panda Express and sometimes Panera, as well as some local pizza joints. It wasn't until Iilluminaughtii's video a week or two ago about the nutrition shops and said that the first sign is any store with a name "nutrition" in it, and I was scrolling through Instagram stories while watching, and I saw a dine-to-donate flyer from a fraternity at this shop which is called "5th St Nutrition." Then I dug into the shop more and realized "holy shit, this is an Herbalife shop getting college kids to spend money there when they think their money is just supporting a local business and philanthropy."

[@marissa3910]

There are so many between San antonio and New braunfels tx. People are so blind to them its ridiculous

[@lisalothian6412]

One just opened in my small town. I wonder how long it will last. My friend unknowingly went there and had horrible stomach cramping and D from the “smoothie”!

[@AdrienneMcGuire]

Yes to longer stories!!! I listen to you as I fall asleep at night. Always interesting but also relaxing for some reason!!!

[@akaneakane1969]

Story 2 omg, it is beyond disgusting that her life & death struggle would get used as a freaking stranger's sales pitch, and the lies about these crappy essential oils being a cure all delayed her getting the actual treatment she needed to boot. I'm so glad she managed to survive that & it's so horrible that cases like hers might still be happening bc of these mlms. Really living for the day they can get banned & shut down for good, please I am manifesting 🙏

[@CinnamonTroll8U]

Your cats make the cutest little noises and I love them 🥺💖 Even their meows are trills instead of normal meows 😂 if you ever do a quick stress relief segment or something at some point during a video, I vote for a cat intermission!! (Like when Julia Adams MUA on KZbin does "brow intermissions" for people to watch while she does her brows and it's cute clips of her cats lol. Maybe something at the end though.) I just love your cats' random cameos 😂

[@natalieclausel6334]

The second story BROKE my heart. I’m SO GLAD that person is still here to tell their story, although it is clearly a very traumatic one.

[@windyacresfarm1122]

Man herbalife....they hit my school hard and all of the teachers got wrapped up in it. I'm so glad I said no

[@hannah22766]

Not the worst part of the DoTerra story, but a chance to talk with another teen struggling with depression could have been such a good thing for her! The fact that it was a lie is horrendous.

[@TiffWaffles]

And what is even more horrific is the fact that the mother told HER trauma in order to sell her products. That is disgusting...

[@deecawford]

I am so grateful to know that her father was able to help her. Never underestimate the power of a daddy. My heart hurt for her at the part where she had to tell her story to a room of strangers. Mostly it bothered me because she thought she was going to speak with someone one on one .

[@osteophagus]

Agreed, she was so excited to be able to talk to a peer in the same situation and then to find out it was a lie...so glad she got out and is doing better.

[@2022Coopersmom]

doTERRA sellers are never supposed to give medical advice. doTERRA seemed very cultish as far as oils were the solution for everything.

[@naomifrost5767]

My mom is an aromatherapist so has always believed in essential oils but even she is horrified at how doterra tells people to use oils, especially how they tell people to take the oils internally. So dangerous and so bad for your essential gut microbes.

[@honeylis7]

If the person submitting the depression story is reading these comments.. You're special, you're valuable, I'm so happy you are still here with us!

[@viviantong6396]

my heart goes out to the writer of the second story! I am on anxiety and depression medication and probably will be for the rest of my life I'm so proud of them for sharing their story and for fighting the good fight

[@Sol_Luvv11]

I am screaming!!! SCREAMING!! Coming from a seasoned Massage Therapist who has taken multiple aromatherapy classes I am appalled that people are claiming in anyway shape or form that essential oils are a cure all!!!! Ugh! That poor child! This is an example of how abusive and disgusting these MLMs can be and how completely ignorant these reps obviously are!!! Not to mention how dangerous not properly treating depression can be. How very sad and upsetting.

[@mol7825]

So happy for Peter who is cancer free!! And my heart goes out to the person who told the doterra story. MLMs can be so dangerous and damaging.

[@SoccerBallerina8]

Yes Hannah, you are SO right about saying people join MLMs for discounted products and to make a little side cash, not knowing what an MLM actually is or what it requires. That's what happened to me! I was in Beachbody and I liked the workouts and products and got results, so I wanted to encourage others to start exercising too, and possibly make some side money. But that was definitely not how it worked lol. Also, the last story where she said, "your grandmother is probably rolling in her grave so fast that the centripetal acceleration would reach the speed of light" had me dying 😂😂 I LOVED that person's story-telling and verbiage and I'm SO proud of her for telling the other people it was a scam and helping them leave too!! 🙌 That was so awesome.

[@autumngreen2579]

As a kid who grew up around this sort of thing, it affects you a lot. These moms turn around after and say horrible stuff about each other, and I remember how stressed out my aunties were trying to sell it, the house was not fun and I hated Avon with a passion.

[@whoseeuro121]

Yikes that second story hit a chord with me as someone with ongoing mental health struggles. The oil and supplement MLM companies make me so mad !!!

[@vickypalacios2519]

I love how ur cat communicates w you !! Yall must have such a tight bond ! Love that (: & thank you so so much for sharing these stories, spreading awareness and always being so graceful w it !

[@AsterInDis]

This is probably one of the most adorable interactions with your kitties yet.

[@pvanpelt1]

When Zeke meowed I was looking away from the screen and thought it was one of our three, and automatically meowed back lol 😹

[@the_world_of_marketing]

Hannah have you thought about investigating other kinds of scams as well? You are great at this, like a journalist. I would love to hear your opinions on some popular scams out there, like unqualified mindfullness coaches giving dangerous advice (and the whole coaching and mindset industry as well). Anyways, love your content!

[@KitKat10281]

Yesss! I had a "life coach" I went to for a while, looking for a legit trauma therapist, who I naively let take me for a nice little financial ride, that nearly led me to destroying my entire life! 😮 more deceptive practices there to investigate as well!

[@brokenmikki14]

Hey Hannah, this is a little short to send is as a horror story, however it’s horrific none the less. My fathers a veteran and had a physical-checkup at the VA hospital about two months ago. He came home with a strong recommendation FROM HIS DOCTOR to start beach body and specifically shakeology. Thankfully he mentioned it to me, and I told him what the company was, showed him comparable HONEST companies to choose from, and expressed how concerning it was that his doctor was pushing this on him.

[@SassyNurse008]

Well, I agree with you and many things, there are certain personality types that are drawn to MLM’s. The story about the girl with depression goes deeper than an MLM issue. This is tragic and sad, because on some level, the mother really felt she was going to fix her daughter. So there are some underlying diagnosis that contributes to the story . It Breaks my Heart ❤️

[@sulekhamane5653]

To the lady in the second story, I'm so sorry for what you went through, I'm so glad you got the right help. and no you did not trauma dump us. Thank you so much for spreading awareness. Again so sorry what you had to go through. Sending healing and prayers your way!

[@h20martha1]

Love your videos!!! I want to make anti- MLM videos in Spanish. It needs to be done. These MLMs target Latinas and latinos like crazy! You are my inspiration! 😘

[@cutandgo]

Yes please do. I have noticed this and I don't even speak Spanish.

[@KitKat10281]

In the several MLMs I've been hooked into over the years, most of them have had very few Latinx distributors and we're ALWAYS trying to tell us to target Latinx communities because "they're an untapped market" (sooo condescendingly, too!) 😢

[@brookekivi]

“Grooming me.” Talk about saying the quiet parts out loud, Herbalife Eve. I can see how it sounded innocent at the time to the poster of this story, but knowing what we all know now about Herbalife that is some red flag language. eta: Apparently “grooming” for the business was the language those club reps were trained to use. Not one, but two times!

[@sunny30427]

I thought the same thing! 😆

[@melissamoonchild9216]

Lol seriously.

[@tazlinarhetoric4543]

Idk who needs to hear this, but don't worry about writing long stories. They are always super entertaining

[@CarboneCat]

This is an interesting variety of horror stories that display how dangerous and awful MLMs are.

[@cuckoophendula8211]

Man, while I always felt that my own story would be too uninteresting to share, the last 2 ones here kind of inspired me to share my own eventually (one for being caught while in a mentally vulnerable state, and the other for reminding me how my own story had a bit to do with the pressure of being a med school graduate). I guess I better get on top of this knowing how full Hannah's anti-MLM mailbox is now.

[@annea.4173]

It's so interesting listening to this first Herbalife story after having just watched the documentary "Betting on Zero" a few days ago. It completely explains how these "clubs" can exist without a food license.

[@Kelseyzj]

Story 3 is so powerful! You always have the best stories that show how toxic these companies are. A huge look behind the curtain!

[@babyturkey8342]

I don't think you have any idea how happy your videos make me lol just the way you talk your voice is so soothing you just make me feel so calm. I hope that doesn't come off as weird I'm not trying to be weird I just really really enjoy listening to talk

[@KitKat10281]

It's not weird (to me, anyways!)! I feel the same way! ❤

[@Aalisrocklist]

I want to send a virtual big fat hug to the lady of the DoTerra horror story. 💗💗💗

[@syreetabrown8801]

Zeke talking at you just killed me! Such a sweet boy!

[@melissamoonchild9216]

MLMs are INCREDIBLY popular in Utah, where I am from. Culturally, (mormons) people have very big families here, and often times the mother stays at home. These stay at home moms are incredibly vulnerable to the MLM structure and mindset, not to mention these people network through church, so they all intrinsically trust each other. I've seen it all (we are the home of Doterra + young living) herbalife and beach body are also very popular. I'm hoping to educate fellow Utahns to the predatory nature of MLMs. Thanks for creating so much content to share with people.

[@KitKat10281]

I was big into the Senegence/LipSense MLM a few years ago, and it seemed like 90% of the huns in my upline were from Utah and like 99% of them were of a Mormon background! 😂 I always thought it was related! Thanks for clearing it up! ❤

[@OurVisionOurStory]

I LOVE these. I've sent in my stories.. But one I forgot was very recent. My daughter is getting married in a Castle so I can't believe they allowed this! Anyway, they have a bridal show and she went and entered into a drawing. The next day she was contacted and told she won. She could invite twelve people and have a makeover party. My ears perked up and I was heartbroken that I had to pull her aside and tell her it was probably Mary Kay and it was a scam. She was super bumbed and called and canceled her "party" then had to tell her friends. Such a mean thing to do to people who are planning a stressful event and a relaxing party. Disgusting

[@KitKat10281]

I sold makeup through Younique for a while and then Senegence (LipSense), and one of their BIG schticks was "go to bridal expos" to promote both the product, plus the "opportunity" (to vulnerable young brides who want the influencer SAH lifestyle after marriage). They encouraged us to promote ourselves as "makeup artists" and try to get booked to do makeup for bridal parties/weddings! When I told my upline I wasn't comfortable with that, because although I have worn makeup for a long time and love to "play dress up" with my own makeup looks now and then, I'm FAR FROM being an actual "makeup artist," they belittled me and essentially mocked me - telling me to "develop my skills" by watching KZbin tutorials and stuff! 😮 it infuriated me! Like the whole culture was obsessed with the "fake it til you make it" idea! It felt and still feels SOOOO predatory and wrong! 😢

[@shawnb2354]

Yeah the 2nd story had me raging inside. Thank you for presenting that the way you did, such a horrific story.

[@Burnisfaction]

Can you do a video on Purium? My aunt has gotten sucked into it and also pulled in my stepmom who told me their whole system has made her feel amazing. I thought I’d try a couple shakes because sometimes I’m on the go and don’t have time to make a full meal so thought it could be a good way to get my nutrition needs med when I’m depressed. I didn’t realize it was a MLM. Then I googled it one day and they got sued for having LEAD in their products and that they weren’t FDA approved. My aunt said that the shakes no longer have that issue, but they’re still not FDA approved?! And they’re claiming to “remove heavy metals from your blood.” It is WILD

[@meganbrinkman1882]

Oh my god that second story. My skin is literally crawling from that mother taking her kid off depression meds

[@brookenjonas]

I have sweats, chills, and I poop waaaaay too much if I don’t take mine antidepressants for a couple of days and I’m sure that mom stopped giving her kid the meds cold turkey.

[@huntasoup]

@@brookenjonas yes... you cannot go off psych meds cold turkey. Some people die from it or get serious consequences for a long, long time when they do (especially benzos). It's truly dangerous. My heart breaks for that person. 😓

[@brookenjonas]

@@huntasoup me too😞

[@kymfrancis4612]

I am a retired clinical psychologist & I have had an incredible career, I was always very available to my family & I always made them my priority; I dropped everything when my children & husband needed me. I’ve had many people along the way try to sign me up for their MLMs & I always pushed back (hard) against their attempts to co-opt me into their cults. I’ve only just found your channel & I love your sound, empathetic ascertainment of MLMs.

[@katiesmith5149]

These are unbelievable stories! Also thanks for not clipping out the parts where your cats participate. They’re a nice palette cleanser from the crappy MLM behavior.

[@m.teresa.r]

I know this as a business owner, that paying an "employee" by check or direct deposit puts you in a position to pay certain benefits, including filing your employee, which doubles the amount of social security and medical taxes from your revenue. When you have a certain amount of employees, now you have to provide workman's compensation and paid leave. it is sketchy they are paying people, basically, under the table, at a registered business.

[@aureliagold1222]

Why most MLMs are US-based: "I was really tempted because I felt like a massive burden to my family because they had to pay a lot of money so I would not die of cancer."

[@melissamoonchild9216]

It's a dog eat dog world here

[@lexwithbub]

Also... Mormons.

[@Edriella]

Yea I am from central Europe and we also have MLMs here but I feel people are way harder to be pushed deeply into them.

[@lemonielala3080]

"the USA is a country full of temporarily embarrassed millionaires " Everyone believes they can (and SHOULD strive to) become a millionaire. In Europe we just kind of.... Settle. And chill.

[@gabrielle4152]

​@@EdriellaSome Americans get roped into MLMs to try to pay off their insane medical debts. This doesn't happen where free medical care exists.

[@angelac5954]

I would absolutely LOVE longer videos with horror stories. They’re truly my favorite! 💕🙏🏼

[@cryptid-artha]

My mom is duped by DoTerra... She buys from them. I feel bad for her, because she legit spent almost $300 on a gift for me because she legitimately thought it would cure my IBS, hormone inbalances, insomnia, GERD and other chronic health issues... She tried so hard, but some of those blends didn't even smell good. Which is literally what essential oils are meant to do. As an aside, your cat is freaking adorable and reminds me of my babies!

[@faithtroyer75]

Last summer I went to a Herbalife shop with a friend to get a shake and it was my first time. And before all of this happned, I wasn't aware of Anti MLMs and I wish I did. As I was looking through the menu deciding what I wanted to drink, I couldn't believe the prices! $8 for a Snickers flavored protien shake which tasted NOTHING like a Snickers 😆 I ended up settling on a Fruity Pebbles shake. After submitting my order, the "Hun," who ran the store with her husband asked what brought me in and explained my recent weightloss and I swear the look in her eyes was freaky 😅 😲 She then began to "love bomb," me immediately! "WOW! That's so great! Congrats, beautiful! How did you do it? Did you lose weight with OUR products?" I said no. It was just through a strict diet and exercise. And I kid you not, she looked around to her husband mouthing "we got one." And I got 😨🙀 So I gave her the money, got the shakes and got the hell out of dodge. Obviously I didn't go back!

[@myliza700]

the oil thing is probably the one that enrages me the most. I have two auto immune disorders- i have CGD and Behcets. - and i cannot possibly explain how AWFUL it is when someone says that their $20 one ounce essential oil will CURE you... from something that has impacted your entire life. From something that has nearly k*lled you. something that caused so much trauma and pain. So many hours and years just trying to figure out whats wrong with you. They TARGET Us. And im not ab to let myself be one of their Victims.

[@SparkPup]

Blindsiding a 16yo in a room of strangers is so traumatizing. Absolutely insane.

[@mackenziehirschmann7141]

I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety at 17. My mom didn't understand why I was like this but she never invalidated my feelings and was always there for me when I needed her. I am horrified for that girl and angry that her mother would act in such a way.

[@chrisveshovski8025]

Hey Hannah - look up the documentary “betting on Zero” it’s about the scheme that is Herbalife - much like LulaRoe film. I’d love to see you do a review on that! Also, the Illumanaughty does an Herbalife KZbin video on these health clubs. The film “betting on Zero” is very fascinating in how these health clubs target that Latin community specifically.

[@timriehl1500]

Yes! Great idea; I would love to see her react to that doc; I saw it and it was awesome.

[@maryeckel9682]

I loved when she went undercover to the local shop.

[@missbriteyes22]

*Sees new Hannah content* *clicks off of MLM Fails #36 to watch new upload* 🤣

[@absynthefaerie]

I’ve had encounters with MLMs my entire life but nothing overtly bad and thankfully nothing that has put anyone in debt. My mom has tried Herbalife (currently using it actively), Mary Kay, and some house decor one I don’t remember the name but the kit was in these blue suitcases. My sister is the one that got my mom in Herbalife (she’s even operated one of those clubs for a time), and I have a cousin that sold those hair clip things (LilaRose or whatever it’s called). I just remembered my mom also signed up for Tupperware, but that wasn’t to sell but to get the discounted starter kit before she immediately closed the account.

[@saradelrusso7790]

My mom got sucked into some essential oil company a few years ago too when her friend sold them. She bought me an essential oil “belly blend” that she claimed would help my IBS. I said thanks and kept it in my bathroom cabinet. I’ve never used it for my IBS but it does smell good and I’ve rubbed it on my wrists and neck for fragrance lol.

[@ilovemansl223]

While I really respect and admire your compassion about MLM reps as they are being victims themselves, that second story about DoTerra really left me messed up, I am literally in tears. I don't think I cried over watching any of your videos, although there was a lot of mess in others as well, I don't want to belittle any other issue you exposed. But this hits too close to home as I had my share of depression and other mental health issues. What happened there is extremely messed up and unacceptable. I have absolutely no words describing how glad I am for the person who sent you the story that they got out of this, I am really relieved that they are leading a happier life now.

[@journeywithrosie]

I’ve always been anti MLM, but after watching your videos I’m more against them than ever before! That doterra story was insane.

[@anasaldana2028]

The documentary that opened my path to being anti mlm was “Betting On Zero.” I watched it back in 2016. If you haven’t watched it, it is a must, it explains the “store front” tactic that Herbal Life does.

[@DancewithBeni]

Yayyyy I was waiting for this! Liked it before watching.

[@meganrasey4377]

Same!

[@alishap8036]

Miserable day of being sick and now I have a full Hour of story’s to watch ! Always making my day Hannah!

[@WinnerWinnerEmmaDinner]

Story 3 - I live in the UK and used to work in a hotel in food and beverage which included the conference rooms. We had one of these where the MLM was the conference itself, it was how to become a property millionaire with a £10 start. I overheard some of it and knew it was a scam.

[@bladerubber]

Not really a MLM. Sounds more of a course scam. Trying to up selll some stupid folder of obvious n worthless info for £3k or summit

[@auggiedoggiesmommy1734]

Running a challenge like that has alarm bells ringing. States usually have regulations on ANY kind of lottery. And this story explains why.

[@jamg8483]

I really need to send my story in. My step dad was a narcissist pos who surprise was in MLMs. I remember hearing him scream and then plead to these people all day long. It was SUCH a toxic environment. I’ll have to send it in because it’s a completely different experience then any one I have ever heard.

[@erinw8787]

Omg I just noticed your sub count ! You go girl! You are articulate , insightful, genuine , kind and interesting . You deserve all the subs xxx

[@CarolinaSCraftsMakeupFood]

That last story! I immediately perked up because I have my MAE from UF and work there now, directly with students. We had a student “accept” and internship program from that same company, but due to the requirements of his program he was going to have to get permission to do that instead of taking certain courses that semester. We will fight for our students if the opportunity is a good one but as soon as we looked into it a little bit we told him no- trust me this is not an “internship” that you want or will benefit you in any way. He was upset he had to go back and “decline” after he had already “accepted” it but I’m glad he did not get sucked into that.

[@kennedybartlett3358]

Hey Hannah, In reference to the first story. I have some info about Nutrition clubs as I live in the UK and my former (ex) best friend is now an owner of one of these “Nutrition Clubs”. I was in the background when she was setting her club up (I wasn’t part of the MLM). I do have some insight on how she avoids facing fines etc from Herbalife. Let me know if you’d like to hear about this 😀 I love these stories. Herbalife is my least favourite MLM as it’s huge in England now and too many vulnerable people are going to these clubs where it’s against most of the company’s regulations xx

[@helenr4300]

UK here too - I have not encountered clubs in UK what area are they in? Are they targeting certain areas maybe?

[@DM-pf5ly]

Everyone who hasn’t needs to watch Betting on Zero. Really gives a face to the people and communities that Herbalife has ruined.

[@katrink5424]

I am very sorry for the person in the 2nd story 😟 this sounds so sad… I hope she is in a better place now and getting an appropriate treatment

[@Bestie12345-o]

I absolutely adore you and your work! Would you consider doing a deep dive on the CEOs of MLMs? (the REAL CEOs obviously). The gender aspect of this whole system really fascinates me. Seems to me that male CEO intentionally figured out how target women who might not be so familiar with workers’ rights and labor laws. Women have been fighting since the 70s to “have it all,” the family, the job, the free time, and working class women still haven’t necessarily achieved that balance on a widespread level for many reasons. Seems like male CEOs are really preying on women’s desired to have it all and then somehow end up not paying them at all for their work??!! They are the real villains to me. I’d be so interested to hear your take on this because you’re always so thoughtful. 💕💕💕

[@yeesintx7]

Older man at the bar is an angel. Love that story. 👏

[@carinelsonfreeland]

I’m not sure if those who submit their stories read the comments, but just in case they do, I want to let the person who submitted their doTERRA story know: I am so very sorry this happened to you. You didn’t deserve that. I am so grateful that you found a way out of that extremely dangerous situation & I commend you for your bravery in sharing your story. The world is better with you in it! ❤

[@brookenjonas]

PLEASE do a video on the nutrition clubs! There’s a TON of them in the city I live in, including one that opened on my college campus before I graduated. They even called a secretary at the school I teach in to bring us free drinks and promotional coupons. I drank one because I was thirsty but knew they weren’t healthy. Since the name Herbalife wasn’t in the name of the store it took me a second to connect the dots but they’re clearly targeting college students. Some people around town know it’s a pyramid scheme but others unfortunately think it’s a small business. Love you and the longer videos, Hannah!

[@valentinabernal2416]

Yessss!!! Please do more horror stories. Thankyou so much. You just saved me from a MLM

[@ericamartin7334]

I love the longer videos! I’m 100% addicted to this channel

[@tracygarner5912]

Ooo they asked her to take calls during her PAID job? That is stealing company time. You can get fired for working your own business while on another company's time while they are paying you.

[@shannacleveland5434]

I went to the WA State Spring Fair yesterday and I saw a LuLaRoe booth set up where they have all of the small business booths. I immediately thought of you 😂

[@charlotteburford2240]

I got blamed for Monat not working too. Got told those tiny ass bottles should be lasting 6 MONTHS?! Wtf. Using the amount they say to use will literally not even cover a quarter of my hair

[@littlelimax3739]

Your videos are the first place I heard about Southwestern Advantage. Last year, I had someone come to my house selling children's books. I assume now that's who he was with. I turned him down, but now I wish I had offered to call his parents or help him in some way.

[@andrek344]

Oh my god! I made it this far thinking about the world ventures mlm because my LANDLORD pitched it to me. I fell pray to it for like 2 months but then quit because it was unrealistic. But boy did it put me in a bad position with my landlord at that time. I was wondering when this name is going to come up and I'm glad it did cause that'd be my horror story. Much love Hannah, I'm binging these videos like crazy, it's very relaxing and eyeopening in the same time ❤

[@mnunezhk]

yes to longer stories!!!!!