Multi-Level Marketing Schemes: Magic Dirt, a Presidential Grifter, and How to Say No to Boss Babes

The Reference Desk

How much would you be willing to pay for a bag of dirt that could rid your body of toxins? How about a personalized vitamin regimen backed by Donald Trump? In this second part of our MLM series, Katie covers the viral sensation of Black Oxygen Organics, an MLM that sold literal dirt to thousands of crunchy moms who were convinced they were healing their families. We also dive into Donald Trump’s relationship with the MLM industry, from his ad placements on The Apprentice to his use of MLM-approved selling tactics in Trump University and beyond. Plus, we have some tips for you on how to turn down MLM sales pitches without ruining friendships and some media and book recommendations for those who want to learn more about this fascinating cult-like phenomenon.
All books shared in this episode can be purchased at our Bookshop!

Recommended reading:
Fiction:
Broke Georgia Goes Multi-Level by Donna Fernandez
Confidence by Rafael Frumkin
Non-fiction:
Hey, Hun: Sales, Sisterhood, Supremacy, and the Other Lies Behind Multilevel Marketing by Emily Lynn Paulson
Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism by Amanda Montell
Other Media:
LulaRich Docuseries [Amazon Prime]
Betting on Zero Documentary [Roku Channel, Tubi, Plex]
On Becoming a God in Central Florida [Showtime]
Life After MLM Podcast hosted by Roberta Blevins
The Dream Podcast hosted by Jane Marie

Sources:
Episode sources

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