The Other 99%: A Podcast for Small Business Owners and Direct Sellers

In this episode of The Other 99%, hosts Lisa Duck and Susan Larimer engage with Marla Nemanic, a seasoned direct sales leader from Lemongrass Spa. Marla shares her journey from struggling with adult acne to finding a passion for natural skincare and building a successful direct sales business. The conversation delves into leadership styles, the importance of authenticity, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the significance of metrics in guiding teams. Marla emphasizes the need for consistency, self-promotion, and building genuine relationships with team members. The episode concludes with valuable insights on recognizing achievements and the mindset required for effective leadership.

Takeaways:

• Marla Nemanic transitioned from a dental hygienist to a successful direct sales leader.
• Authenticity in leadership fosters trust and connection with team members.
• Imposter syndrome is common, but it can be overcome with support and self-belief.
• Metrics are essential for identifying potential leaders within a team.
• Building relationships is key to successful leadership in direct sales.
• Consistency in actions leads to long-term success in business.
• Self-promotion is crucial for direct sellers, especially without upline support.
• Engaging your team through recognition and communication is vital.
• The Green by 15 strategy helps front-load business efforts for better results.
• Leaders should be transparent about their own business challenges to inspire their teams.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Marla and Lemongrass Spa

06:31 Authenticity in Leadership

14:42 Building Relationships Through Communication

19:38 Self-Promotion and Consistency in Business

25:42 Do's and Don'ts of Leadership

30:44 Empowering Personal Choices in Sales

40:30 Leading by Example: Authenticity in Leadership

46:38 The Importance of Self-Leadership

53:10 Introduction and Gratitude

53:39 Engagement and Community Building

Find Marla on Facebook

Thank you for tuning in to The Other 99%. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps us reach more listeners like you! Don’t forget to share this episode with your network and help spread the word.

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Find Lisa on social: Facebook | Instagram | lisaduck.com

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Find Susan on social: Facebook | Instagram | susanlarimer.com

Grab your 5-Step Customer Care Cheat Sheet here

Disclaimer: While we strive to provide valuable recommendations and insights, the opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests. We encourage you to conduct your own research before using any mentioned tools or services to ensure they align with your personal needs. Thank you for being part of The Other 99%!

In this conversation, Jenna Stewart shares her journey in direct sales with Paper Pie, discussing the challenges and rewards of balancing a busy family life with running a business. She emphasizes the importance of maintaining customer relationships, understanding one's 'why', and navigating through maintenance mode in business. Jenna also highlights the role of community support and leadership in direct sales, as well as her aspirations for the future. Her insights provide valuable advice for anyone in the direct sales industry, particularly those struggling with the pressures of performance and success.

Takeaways:

• Jenna has been with Paper Pie for 10 years, balancing work and family life.
• She emphasizes the importance of customer relationships and consistent communication.
• Finding a work-life balance is crucial, especially with young children.
• It's okay to be in maintenance mode and not always striving for growth.
• Understanding your 'why' can help navigate challenges in business.
• Community support is vital for personal and professional growth.
• Jenna uses Project Broadcast for efficient customer communication.
• She believes in the importance of literacy and making books accessible.
• Future aspirations include more in-person events and book fairs.
• Direct sales should be fun and fulfilling, not just about awards.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Jenna Stewart and Her Journey

05:00 The Evolution of Direct Sales and Parenting

12:27 Navigating Maintenance Mode in Business

18:33 Finding Joy Beyond Awards and Recognition

23:21 The Power of Community and Support

25:29 Leading a Team Through Challenges

25:47 Exploring Project Broadcast for Customer Engagement

30:27 Future Aspirations: Balancing Business and Family Life

37:01 Wisdom for Direct Sellers: Persistence and Growth Mindset

43:37 Connecting with Jenna: Resources and Final Thoughts

44:18 Introduction and Gratitude

44:46 Engagement and Community Building

Find Jenna @ jennasbookadventures.com

Thank you for tuning in to The Other 99%. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps us reach more listeners like you! Don’t forget to share this episode with your network and help spread the word.

Interested in being a guest? Share your story here

Learn more about the Modern Direct Seller Academy

Learn more about Project Broadcast

Find Lisa on social: Facebook | Instagram | lisaduck.com

Grab your ChatGPT Freebie here

Find Susan on social: Facebook | Instagram | susanlarimer.com

Grab your 5-Step Customer Care Cheat Sheet here

Disclaimer: While we strive to provide valuable recommendations and insights, the opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests. We encourage you to conduct your own research before using any mentioned tools or services to ensure they align with your personal needs. Thank you for being part of The Other 99%!

In this episode of The Other 99%, Lisa Duck and Susan Larimer discuss effective strategies for selling products in direct sales without coming across as overly salesy. They emphasize the importance of genuine connections, the art of authentic communication, and the value of customer testimonials. The hosts share personal experiences, tips on permission-based marketing, and phrases that can help boost confidence in selling. The conversation highlights the significance of building relationships and maintaining consistency in communication to foster trust and engagement with customers.

Takeaways:

• You can sell without being salesy by focusing on genuine connections.
• Birthday messages should be sincere and not sales pitches.
• Authenticity is key in building relationships with customers.
• Sharing personal stories can help sell products without being pushy.
• Permission-based marketing respects the customer's space and interest.
• Confidence in selling comes from using phrases that feel natural.
• Consistency in communication builds trust with customers.
• Customer testimonials provide valuable third-party validation.
• It's important to be mindful of how you approach potential customers.
• Sales strategies should prioritize the customer's needs and feelings.

Chapters:

00:00 Navigating Sales Without Being Salesy

10:04 The Art of Genuine Connection

19:27 Effective Storytelling in Sales

29:06 Permission-Based Marketing Strategies

39:19 Confidence Building Techniques

48:06 Effective Communication Phrases

49:07 Introduction and Gratitude

49:36 Engagement and Community Building

Thank you for tuning in to The Other 99%. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps us reach more listeners like you! Don’t forget to share this episode with your network and help spread the word.

Interested in being a guest? Share your story here

Find Lisa on social: Facebook | Instagram | lisaduck.com

Grab your ChatGPT Freebie here

Find Susan on social: Facebook | Instagram | susanlarimer.com

Grab your 5-Step Customer Care Cheat Sheet here

Watch Susan's Ditch the Chip Clip Video here

Disclaimer: While we strive to provide valuable recommendations and insights, the opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests. We encourage you to conduct your own research before using any mentioned tools or services to ensure they align with your personal needs. Thank you for being part of The Other 99%!

In this episode, Lisa Duck and Susan Larimer are joined by Sami Bedelll-Mulhern to discuss the significance of email marketing for businesses, especially for direct sellers. They explore the importance of personalization, the difference between newsletters and sales emails, and the role of automation in streamlining email marketing efforts. Sami shares practical tips on how to write effective emails, the importance of consistency, and how to manage unsubscribes. The conversation emphasizes that email marketing is not dead and remains a powerful tool for engagement and revenue generation.

Takeaways:

• Email marketing has the highest ROI of any digital strategy.
• Personalization in emails creates a stronger connection with customers.
• Consistency in sending emails leads to better engagement rates.
• Newsletters should provide value, not just sales pitches.
• Automation can save time and improve customer engagement.
• Choosing the right email platform is crucial for success.
• Writing at a fifth to seventh-grade level improves readability.
• Unsubscribes are a natural part of email marketing.
• Focus on the health of your email list, not just the size.
• Be authentic in your emails to attract the right audience.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Email Marketing

03:06 The Importance of Email Marketing

04:13 Personalization in Email Marketing

06:33 Newsletters vs. Sales Emails

11:40 Email Deliverability and Subject Lines

21:28 Automation in Email Marketing

24:38 Choosing the Right Email Marketing Platform

26:24 Writing Effective Email Copy

28:39 Simplifying Email Marketing for Beginners

31:00 Building and Maintaining Your Email List

33:57 Understanding Email Analytics and Trends

36:32 Handling Unsubscribes and Cold Subscribers

38:50 Crafting Engaging Subject Lines

41:49 Embracing Authenticity in Email Communication

44:16 Introduction and Gratitude

44:46 Engagement and Community Building

Find Sami @ easystylewithsami.com

Thank you for tuning in to The Other 99%. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps us reach more listeners like you! Don’t forget to share this episode with your network and help spread the word.

Interested in being a guest? Share your story here

Find Lisa on social: Facebook | Instagram | lisaduck.com

Grab your ChatGPT Freebie here

Find Susan on social: Facebook | Instagram | susanlarimer.com

Grab your 5-Step Customer Care Cheat Sheet here

Disclaimer: While we strive to provide valuable recommendations and insights, the opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests. We encourage you to conduct your own research before using any mentioned tools or services to ensure they align with your personal needs. Thank you for being part of The Other 99%!

In this episode of The Other 99%, hosts Lisa Duck and Susan Larimer discuss the challenges of managing excess inventory in direct sales businesses. They explore the psychological factors that lead to over-purchasing, such as FOMO (fear of missing out), and provide practical strategies for avoiding inventory accumulation. The conversation emphasizes the importance of creativity in moving inventory, including techniques like mystery bundles, flash sales, and themed sets. The hosts also highlight the significance of maintaining a profitable mindset and making informed purchasing decisions to ensure long-term success in direct sales.

Takeaways

• Excess inventory is a common issue in direct sales.

• FOMO can lead to over-purchasing and financial strain.

• It's important to regularly assess your inventory levels.

• Creative sales strategies can help move excess stock.

• Offering mystery bundles can attract customers and clear inventory.

• Flash sales can create urgency and boost sales.

• Themed sets can appeal to specific customer needs.

• Using inventory as a fundraiser can benefit the community.

• Maintaining a profitable mindset is crucial for success.

• Generosity in sharing products can lead to customer loyalty.

  
  

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Excess Inventory in Business

06:54 Strategies to Avoid Over-Purchasing

12:44 Effective Ways to Move Inventory

18:48 Final Thoughts on Inventory and Profitability

39:46 Introduction and Gratitude

40:15 Engagement and Community Building

Thank you for tuning in to The Other 99%. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps us reach more listeners like you! Don’t forget to share this episode with your network and help spread the word.

Interested in being a guest? ⁠Share your story here⁠

Find me on social: ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠lisaduck.com⁠

Grab your ⁠ChatGPT Freebie here⁠

Find Susan on social: ⁠Facebook⁠ | ⁠Instagram⁠ | ⁠susanlarimer.com⁠

Grab your ⁠5-Step Customer Care Cheat Sheet here⁠

Disclaimer: While we strive to provide valuable recommendations and insights, the opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests. We encourage you to conduct your own research before using any mentioned tools or services to ensure they align with your personal needs. Thank you for being part of The Other 99%!

In this episode, Amber Grillot shares her journey with Scentsy discussing her unique approach to marketing through snail mail, the importance of personal touches in customer relationships, and her strategies for fundraising and community engagement. She emphasizes the significance of consistency and offers valuable advice for new entrepreneurs looking to build their businesses. Amber's candid insights and humor make this conversation both informative and entertaining, highlighting the challenges and rewards of direct sales.

Takeaways

• Amber joined Scentsy on a whim, initially for a law enforcement warmer.
• Her favorite product is Scentsy Fresh, a fabric refresher spray.
• Sending thank you cards is a crucial part of her customer engagement strategy.
• Snail mail has a higher open rate compared to digital communications.
• Amber aims to spoil her customers with thoughtful mailers.
• She emphasizes the importance of building relationships with customers.
• Starting with thank you cards can ease new entrepreneurs into snail mail marketing.
• Amber tracks customer purchases to maintain engagement and send timely mailers.
• She believes in celebrating small wins and progress in business.
• Amber's approach to work is relaxed, often done in pajamas.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Amber and Scentsy

06:58 The Power of Snail Mail

12:43 Fundraising Initiatives

18:37 The Future of Snail Mail in Business

24:39 Discounts and Deals on Stamps

31:04 Starting with Thank You Cards

40:01 Embracing Authenticity in Business

47:11 Introduction and Gratitude

47:40 Engagement and Community Building

Thank you for tuning in to The Other 99%. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps us reach more listeners like you! Don’t forget to share this episode with your network and help spread the word.

Interested in being a guest? Share your story here

Find me on social: Facebook | Instagram | lisaduck.com

Grab your ChatGPT Freebie here

Find Susan on social: Facebook | Instagram | susanlarimer.com

Grab your 5-Step Customer Care Cheat Sheet here

Disclaimer: While we strive to provide valuable recommendations and insights, the opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests. We encourage you to conduct your own research before using any mentioned tools or services to ensure they align with your personal needs. Thank you for being part of The Other 99%!

In this episode of The Other 99%, hosts Lisa Duck and Susan Larimer welcome Becky Launder, a successful direct seller and CEO and co-founder of the Modern Direct Seller. They discuss the evolution of direct sales over the past five years, the importance of community, and the tools that can help sellers stand out. Becky shares insights about her platform, Oh My Hi, which helps direct sellers create their own websites and manage their businesses more effectively. The conversation also touches on the significance of email marketing, creating digital products, and the value of taking action even when one doesn't feel fully prepared.

Takeaways:

• Becky Launder is a key figure in the direct sales community.
• Direct sales has evolved significantly in the last five years.
• Community support is crucial for success in direct sales.
• Using tools and systems can help sellers scale their businesses.
• Oh My Hi provides a platform for direct sellers to create their own websites.
• Email marketing is essential for building relationships with customers.
• Creating digital products can supplement direct sales income.
• Taking action before feeling ready can lead to growth.
• Success stories from the community can inspire others.
• Building a personal brand is important in direct sales.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background of Becky Launder

04:50 Evolution of Direct Sales in Recent Years

09:01 Strategies for Standing Out in Direct Sales

12:14 The Importance of Personal Branding and Websites

18:43 Working with Family in Business

21:40 Maximizing Your Website's Potential

29:18 Building and Nurturing Your Email List

37:22 Success Stories and Real-World Applications

44:04 Embracing Imperfection for Growth

45:26 Introduction and Gratitude

45:54 Engagement and Community Building

Find Becky on Social: Facebook | Instagram | moderndirectseller.com

Join Oh My Hi and take part in the upcoming 3-day challenge.

Thank you for tuning in to The Other 99%. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps us reach more listeners like you! Don’t forget to share this episode with your network and help spread the word.

Interested in being a guest? Share your story here

Find me on social: Facebook | Instagram | lisaduck.com

Grab your ChatGPT Freebie here

Grab your copy of the 15-Minute CEO Planner here

Find Susan on social: Facebook | Instagram | susanlarimer.com

Grab your 5-Step Customer Care Cheat Sheet here

Disclaimer: While we strive to provide valuable recommendations and insights, the opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests. We encourage you to conduct your own research before using any mentioned tools or services to ensure they align with your personal needs. Thank you for being part of The Other 99%!

In this episode, Lisa Duck and Susan Larimer welcome Melina Dixon, a seasoned expert in direct sales, who shares her journey and insights from over 21 years in the industry. Melina discusses her transition from being a direct seller to becoming a coach and resource for others in the field. The conversation highlights the importance of community, collaboration, and the tools available for direct sellers to succeed. Melina also emphasizes the significance of mindset, daily habits, and the upcoming posting challenge designed to engage and energize direct sellers.

Takeaways

• ​Melina Dixon has over 21 years of experience in direct sales.
• ​Community and relationships are vital in direct sales.
• ​Direct sales can provide flexibility and independence.
• ​Facebook remains a powerful platform for direct sellers.
• ​Melina offers coaching and resources for busy direct sellers.
• ​Daily habits, like feeding your brain, are crucial for success.
• ​Tracking progress helps maintain organization and motivation.
• ​Networking with others in the industry can provide valuable insights.
• ​The upcoming posting challenge aims to boost engagement on Facebook.
• ​Gratitude is key to maintaining a positive mindset. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Melina Dixon

06:32 The Value of Direct Sales Community

12:15 The Importance of Facebook for Direct Sales

18:09 Coaching and Support for Direct Sellers

23:27 Engagement Through Posting Challenges

29:18 Daily Habits for Business Success

37:07 Introduction and Gratitude

37:36 Engagement and Community Building

Find Melina Dixon on Social: Facebook | melinadixon.com

Join Melina’s 5-Day Posting Challenge July 24-28th 2025. Click here to join: https://subscribepage.io/CP9513

Thank you for tuning in to The Other 99%. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps us reach more listeners like you! Don’t forget to share this episode with your network and help spread the word.

Interested in being a guest? Share your story here

Find me on social: Facebook | Instagram | lisaduck.com

Grab your ChatGPT Freebie here

Find Susan on social: Facebook | Instagram | susanlarimer.com

Grab your 5-Step Customer Care Cheat Sheet here

Disclaimer: While we strive to provide valuable recommendations and insights, the opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests. We encourage you to conduct your own research before using any mentioned tools or services to ensure they align with your personal needs. Thank you for being part of The Other 99%!

In this episode of The Other 99%, Lisa Duck and Susan Larimer chat with Jen Bach from Stamping Jen about her journey in direct sales, the evolution of crafting kits, and the importance of community in the crafting world. Jen shares insights on hosting successful crafting retreats, utilizing social media for business growth, and offers valuable advice for new direct sellers. The conversation highlights the joy of crafting, the significance of handmade cards, and the excitement of creating memorable experiences for customers.

Takeaways

• Jen has been with Stampin' Up for nearly 19 years.

• The crafting community is supportive and collaborative.

• Crafting kits have evolved to be more user-friendly.

• Hosting retreats can enhance customer relationships.

• Social media is crucial for direct sales growth.

• Themed events can create memorable experiences.

• Handmade cards are cherished and meaningful.

• Planning and organization are key to successful events.

• Taking time to recharge after events is important.

• You can do anything you want to do if you want it bad enough.

  
  

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Direct Sales and Crafting Journey

06:28 The Importance of Handmade Cards

12:08 Community and Relationships in Direct Sales

17:49 Unique Crafting Retreats and Experiences

24:05 Profitability and Planning of Retreats

30:24 Organizing and Managing Events

37:52 Advice for New Direct Sellers

40:13 Introduction and Gratitude

40:41 Engagement and Community Building

Find Jen Bach on social: Facebook | YouTube | bytheshorestamping.com

Thank you for tuning in to The Other 99%. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps us reach more listeners like you! Don’t forget to share this episode with your network and help spread the word.

Interested in being a guest? Share your story here

Find me on social: Facebook | Instagram | lisaduck.com

Grab your ChatGPT Freebie here

Find Susan on social: Facebook | Instagram | susanlarimer.com

Grab your 5-Step Customer Care Cheat Sheet here

Disclaimer: While we strive to provide valuable recommendations and insights, the opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests. We encourage you to conduct your own research before using any mentioned tools or services to ensure they align with your personal needs. Thank you for being part of The Other 99%!

In this episode of The Other 99%, hosts Lisa Duck and Susan Larimer discuss the challenges faced by individuals in the direct sales industry, particularly in light of recent company closures. They share personal experiences and insights on navigating new opportunities, the importance of researching potential companies, and the emotional journey that comes with such transitions. The conversation emphasizes the need for individuals to be proactive in their choices, ensuring alignment with their values and the products they represent. The hosts also provide practical advice on what to look for in a new company, questions to ask, and red flags to watch for, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace change and make informed decisions.

Takeaways:

• Direct sales can be unpredictable, with companies closing unexpectedly.
• It's essential to research potential new companies thoroughly.
• Being in direct sales requires a strong belief in the products you sell.
• Compensation plans should be straightforward and easy to understand.
• Consumable products tend to lead to repeat business.
• Aligning with a company's mission is crucial for long-term success.
• Training and support from uplines are vital for new recruits.
• Emotional responses to company closures are normal and part of the process.
• It's okay to take time to reflect before jumping into a new opportunity.
• Walking away from a company that doesn't fit is a valid choice.
• Grab your Quick Guide: Choosing a New Direct Sales Company here

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Video Podcasting

11:00 Key Considerations When Choosing a New Company

17:04 Questions to Ask Before Joining a New Company

23:09 Red Flags to Watch For in Direct Sales

33:02 Conclusion and Resources

Thank you for tuning in to The Other 99%. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the podcast—it helps us reach more listeners like you! Don’t forget to share this episode with your network and help spread the word.

Interested in being a guest? Share your story here

Find me on social: Facebook | Instagram | lisaduck.com

Grab your ChatGPT Freebie here

Find Susan on social: Facebook | Instagram | susanlarimer.com

Grab your 5-Step Customer Care Cheat Sheet here

Disclaimer: While we strive to provide valuable recommendations and insights, the opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the host and guests. We encourage you to conduct your own research before using any mentioned tools or services to ensure they align with your personal needs. Thank you for being part of The Other 99%!