posted February 02, 2005 09:11 AM
Hi, A friend of mine has been doing some research on a few companies. She has narrowed her choice down to just a few now. She is looking for the pros and cons to Emerald Passport. She has found information on the company...but would be interested in any comments, any experiences-good or bad, from anyone that has been with this company. Can't seem to find out much just from research. Can anyone enlighten us on this business.
posted February 10, 2005 11:52 AM
I've been with Emerald Pasport for 5 weeks now, and I've made 16 sales.
So you can say it's working pretty well for me!
But you need to understand marketing. I would recommend that you get your friend to interview a couple directors and find out who he/she feels comfortable with. After all, an investment of $1295 is not to be taken lightly.
Once you know how to market, the Profit Masters movie creates tremendous leverage.
But again it comes back to marketing. I give away a detailed marketing info in a an ebook I wrote with my wife that we give away to everyone who joins us AND everyone in your team gets to do the same: http://www.joinemeraldpassport.com
The product is excellent and Emerald Passport is actually adding more to it at no additional cost.
The Profit Masters movie (http://www.wealthsystemnow.com) creates excitement, interest and converts into sales.
The cons: You need to speak with people, however briefly, because nobody is going to send you $1295 without "feeling you out" first.
And you need to actually market the movie. Some people are pretending that it's a totally automated system -- it's not.
But becasue of the high-profit margin and the high-value of the product, virtually any form of marketing will make you a profit.
Just make sure you're prepared to put in the work.
(By the way, there are a couple of low-cost and free ways that I've used that have converted into sales for me.)
quote:Originally posted by deadra: Hi, A friend of mine has been doing some research on a few companies. She has narrowed her choice down to just a few now. She is looking for the pros and cons to Emerald Passport. She has found information on the company...but would be interested in any comments, any experiences-good or bad, from anyone that has been with this company. Can't seem to find out much just from research. Can anyone enlighten us on this business.
posted February 19, 2005 02:09 PM
Lets get started making money today. I will work with you every step of the way to better your life. Emerald Passport is the vehicle to take us to the next level. Don't stand by watching us make money while you dream about it. Put your passion to work and make a positive change. Read Rich Dad, Poor Dad and get started now. Yes it will be work. No you will not make money by watching TV.
------------------ Robert Audsley http://www.letsbewealthy.com http://www.healthypetstuff.com Don't trade your life for a job, Trade your job for a life.
posted February 20, 2005 11:01 AM
My concerns about Emerald Passport are due to the fact that they're almost similiar in product, opportunity and methodology as 1UpAutomated which was shut down last year. Sooner or later, they're going to start experiencing the same legal issues that caused 1UpAutomated to undergo multi-million dollar lawsuits.
Secondly is the issue of product. I don't have a problem that most of the people are getting involved for the business opportunity. That's true of most successful business opportunities.
However, the concern of Attorney Generals and other regulators will be the fact that the company doesn't make any attempt to actually market a product. Take a look at any EPI flash presentation or business overview call: It's obvious that no prospect would get involved in EPI unless they were planning on working the business
Contrast that to legitimate businesses like Lifeforce, Melaleuca, Mentors In Motion, Liberty League, Sportron International, Mannatech, Legacy, etc.....these are all companies who market a product that would be of value to the consumer whether they chose to market the business opportunity or not.
Or, to put it in a smaller nutshell: if someone had absolutely no interest in working the business, would they actually be interested in buying the Emerald Passport product?
In my opinion, the answer is no. (Which, incidentally, was one of the same factors in the demise of the nearly-identical 1UpAutomated when it was shut down 11 months ago.)
Of course, I don't expect any EPI reps to agree with me. But, based on the failure of similiar programs in the past, the burden of proof is on them.
Questions: what is the actual EPI product? Why would anyone want to buy it if they weren't going to work the business? And why does the company put nearly no emphasis on that product offering? And what makes you think that EPI will avoid the same fate that 1UpAutomated did?
I'm genuinely interested in the answers on this.
Tony Rush
============= What if your annual income suddenly became your monthly income? Free audio at http://www.tonyrush.com
posted February 20, 2005 12:49 PM
I have heard some negative things about Emerald Passport. I find it a bit "ironic" that the posts that are positive about it are from new members, perhaps it's just me. Use Web Ferret to search.
posted February 20, 2005 12:56 PM
Personally, I don't care if there are "negative comments" about a company. There are negative comments about EVERY company.
To me, the more important issues are:
1. What is the nature of the comment? 2. How qualified is the opinion?
In other words, I decided a long time ago not to take financial advice from broke people. So, if I hear someone say they signed up in a company, didn't have success and quit.....that doesn't affect my opinion of that company in the least. I'm savvy enough to know that MOST people who jump into business opportunities don't have a clue what they're doing, aren't coachable and trainable and don't have any sense of commitment. They were doomed to fail before they ever started.
For me, I'm more interested in facts, not the opinions of someone who didn't have success. Chances are good that their lack of success had more to do with them than with the company they're talking about.
It's like the old saying: if you want a better answer, ask a better question.
So, when I read "negative comments" I like to ask:
1. Is this person complaining about the company or about their own results?
2. Is this person attempting to blame the company for something that was really more attributable to his/her enroller?
3. Does this person have well-thought-out opinions and specific issues with the company? Or is he/she just whining because it's just one more thing they tried and failed at?
This is longer than I intended but you get the point. I don't care if a company has negative comments. I just want to know if they're based on facts or not.
Just my two cents,
Tony Rush
============================ What would you change if your annual income suddenly became your monthly income? Free audio at http://www.tonyrush.com
posted February 20, 2005 08:27 PM
I have been involved with a conversation regarding Emerald Passport on another message board and my advice is stay as far away as you can.
The company headquarters are in Panama, outside the jurisdiction of the U.S. Federal Trade Commission and any other U.S. regulatory agency.
Aside from that, the "product" retails for $1295.
$1000 of that is the rep commission. Someone has yet to answer how the value of the rep commission is worth 3X more money than what the cost of actual product would be... which would be $295 if there were no payout to reps.
Business ethics dictate that the value of the product to the consumer have to come first before any recruiting or rep payout.
The credentials of those who authored these so-called educational materials in this product have yet to be revealed and are not revealed to the consumer prior to purchase, and I've been told that they have been ghost-written.
No one seems to have any testimonials as to the successes of putting these "educational materials" to use, but rather the testimonials come from those reselling the products and making $1000 on a $1295 product.
It's completely lopsided and unethical.
About 2 years ago a company out of New Zealand tried to do something similar with a product called Cash Evolution. Their accounts were held offshore on some Caribbean island and needless to say, they were eventually shut down by the government of New Zealand and deemed a scam.
It's a matter of common sense and business ethics. Evenutally, Emerald Passport will wind up down the same road travelled as Cash Evolution and 1UpAutomated.
posted February 21, 2005 04:45 PM
If you see enough negative comments about a company, it's kind of hard to ignore. No, I don't have personal experience because I saw to many red flags myself. It's always good to do your homework, regardless of what anyone says.
There are companies that I have yet to see negative comments about. They are ethical, and don't give cause for negatives.
posted February 24, 2005 07:15 PM
This is my first post on this board, but I thought I could address the concern regarding Emerald Passport's product, as I am a distributor. The product is, IMHO, fantastic and very comprehensive. As you may or may not be aware, it is a proprietary educational product with over 100 hours of audios, videos, and an extensive e-learning library. The focus is two fold focus: Personal Development and Financial Mastery. If you look at the market value for books, audio courses, e-learning courses, seminars, etc. in this field, it's worth much more than the price it's being sold at.
I do agree that the marketing is predominantly focused on the biz opp. size of things, but that's where the demand is. However, EPI is currently developing a video presentation that is focuses strictly on the product. It should be available within a month or so I'm told.
If you're still skeptical, feel free to contact me. I'd be happy to allow you to take a demo of my product. Then you can decide for yourself.
posted February 25, 2005 08:21 AM
My comments about EmeraldPassport are based on conversations I've had with distributors, the amount of bulk email I receive on that opportunity and the obvious similiarity to businesses that have been shut down in the past.
However, I must disagree with some of the other posts that are "anti-" Emerald Passport....
PattysPaper said, "The company headquarters are in Panama, outside the jurisdiction of the U.S. Federal Trade Commission and any other U.S. regulatory agency."
REPLY: Yeah. And that's also true of any products or services that you buy from companies in Canada. It's not that big of a deal.
We Americans tend to be a bit snobbish about our country and I'm as patriotic as anyone. But I'm not naive enough to think that the only "good" businesses in the world are based within our borders.
How would you feel if your MLM company were doing business in Canada and the Canadians all spread innuendo and gossip that your company was a scam because it "wasn't subject to Canadian jurisdiction"?
If that attitude is your personal preference, that's perfectly ok. But I don't think that is a logical benchmark for every business in the world.
Pattyspaper said, "Aside from that, the "product" retails for $1295.
$1000 of that is the rep commission. Someone has yet to answer how the value of the rep commission is worth 3X more money than what the cost of actual product would be... which would be $295 if there were no payout to reps."
REPLY: This is the same logical error that most Americans make and it needs correction.
Price is not based on cost. Price is based on VALUE. And you already know this or you'd be complaining everything you spend $1.50 on a fountain drink that costs less than a nickel to make.
Let's put this into perspective. Let's say you manufacture a product that solves a $100 problem but it only costs you $1.00 to make. How much should you sell it for?
Well, people who are broke and who don't think like merchants will say, Oh, you need to sell it for about $1.50. That way you can be a service to the world, work your butt off 80 hours a week and still be broke like me. Then they'll go back to watching Jerry Springer and whining about the cost of a can of Beenie-Weenies.
If you're smart, you'll sell your product for LESS than $100 but way enough to make sure that you're comfortable.
Here's the fact: capitalism is based on a value-for-value exchange. If you've got a $100 problem and can solve it for $70, well that's a great deal for you. The fact that I'll make $69 for my idea is perfectly ethical.
[u]Based on this the question is: does Emerald Passport offer a product that's worth $1,295?[/u] I have no idea. That's up to the person who's making the decision.
But, no, there's nothing wrong with someone making a $1,000 commission on a $1,295 sale. If they're providing at least $1,295 worth of value to the consumer, it's perfectly ethical and honest.
So, I don't have any problem with people making GREAT money for their work and product. I'm one of them!
My comments are about Emerald Passport, specifically, because I have my doubts that the product is worth what they say.
Tony Rush
============================ What would change if your annual income suddenly became your monthly income? Free audio at http://www.tonyrush.com
posted February 25, 2005 07:56 PM
>>>REPLY: Yeah. And that's also true of any products or services that you buy from companies in Canada. It's not that big of a deal. <<<
Tony, it has nothing to do with being "snobbish" as you call it. At least the Canadian government has a regulatory body that watchdogs against scams. Do you really think you're going to get the Panamanian government to get you your money back? I doubt it.
And yes, it is about value.. So, tell me why the value is being placed on the payout to the rep at $1000 per sale of a $1295 product? That leaves the value of the product at $295? So, the consumer is paying $1295 so the rep can get a commission worth 3x more than the product?
Tell me how this makes any sense or how you would explain that to John Doe consumer?
These are digital products that cost basically nothing to produce with no way of verifying the credibility of the authors? Where is the value in that?
posted February 26, 2005 04:11 PM
Pattyspaper said, "Tony, it has nothing to do with being "snobbish" as you call it. At least the Canadian government has a regulatory body that watchdogs against scams. Do you really think you're going to get the Panamanian government to get you your money back? I doubt it."
REPLY: Patty, you're missing the point: chances are very good that the Canadian government isn't going to chase down any investment you make in any of their companies, either.
Heck, how many people do you know who were in U.S.-based scams who got their money back? I think you're overestimating the amount of recourse that ANY government would provide.
Let me put it another way: if someone isn't smart enough to figure out if they're involved in a legitimate business or not, then it's not going to matter much where the company is located. Avoiding a foreign-based company is certainly not going to keep them safe.
--------- Pattyspaper said, "And yes, it is about value.. So, tell me why the value is being placed on the payout to the rep at $1000 per sale of a $1295 product? That leaves the value of the product at $295? So, the consumer is paying $1295 so the rep can get a commission worth 3x more than the product?
Tell me how this makes any sense or how you would explain that to John Doe consumer?"
REPLY: I already have. The problem is that you're confusing the terms "cost" and "value".
If someone is offering a legitimate product for $1,295 then it has at least $1,295 worth of value. How much profit is being made has absolutely nothing to do with value.
Let me give you a realistic scenario: my wife recently took a pregnancy test. (Sadly, it was negative). Have you ever used one? How much did you pay for it? $10 or $15?
Did you care how much money the drugstore was making? Do you really care that it only costs less than $.25 to make and that the manufacturers have a profit margin of about 5,000%?
Of course you don't. Why? Because the pregnancy test gives you what you want: an answer. And you're willing to pay $15 to get it.
That's called a value-for-value exchange and it's the heart of capitalism. The fact that you're paying about 6,000% more than it costs to make is entirely irrelevant.
The same logic applies to ALL products. I couldn't care less than someone in Emerald Passport is making $1,000 on a $1,295 sale.
The real question should be: if I weren't going to get involved in the business, would I still be willing to pay $1,295 to get whatever Emerald Passport is selling?
In my opinion, the answer is 'no'. Which is the point I was making earlier.
Or, to put it in a nutshell, my problem is NOT with the size of commissions. My opinion is strictly based on the fact that they're operating identically to past companies that have been shut down.
Size of commission? Heck, I hope it IS sizable! I'd hate to think I was selling a $1,295 product and was earning the kind of commissions that you usually see in MLM. (1%, 2%, 3%, 10%, etc.)
Personally, I have very little interest in marketing small-ticket items and I have to have a VERY compelling reason to get involved with any company that's paying less than 60%.
-------- Pattyspaper said, "These are digital products that cost basically nothing to produce with no way of verifying the credibility of the authors? Where is the value in that?"
REPLY: No idea. I haven't attended an Emerald Passport presentation in some time and was only kicking tires then. I have absolutely no interest in the company and know very little about their product.
But, let's explore your question: what if I told you I had a book that I'd send you for $1,000 that would tell you how to create the lifestyle of your dreams? Would you buy it?
Based on your response above, I'd assume you'd want to know something about the "credibility" of the author. I can tell you that this particular author neglected his wife to the point that he actually didn't see her or their son for months -- even years -- at a time.
At one point, he actually took a job for $1 per year even though he was offered FAR more money. And he did this while his wife was having to work to support their son who was handicapped.
Impressed with this author? Would you buy this book? Even if I told you that this book had created thousands of millionaires?
Value is in the eye of the beholder. We vote with our dollars. If you don't want a product, don't buy it. And I'm certainly not suggesting that Emerald Passport's product is worth $1,295.
I'm simply saying that it's inaccurate to say that it's NOT worth $1,295 just because $1,000 of it goes into the rep's pocket.
posted March 04, 2005 02:35 PM
Emerald Passport has been great to all of us. The team support, training, and compensation plan are priceless. I am building a team and will help everyone out that joins with a free qualifying sale. Get on board the automation train. Come on ride the train, ride it. PT passportofwealth@aol.com
posted March 05, 2005 06:02 AM
>>>Get on board the automation train. Come on ride the train, ride it. <<<
People do business with those they know and trust... establishing long-term, loyal, repeat customers does not happen by getting "on board the automation train."
posted March 05, 2005 07:21 AM
You don't get a product for $295. You pay $1,295. As for product, I'm not sure. It's something you download. No idea if it's worth the price you're paying for it.
Which brings up an interesting question: why does Emerald Passport not spend any time on their websites talking about this product? All the talk is about the "automated you-don't-have-to-do-anything" system.
Tony
=============================== Want $1,000 commissions but want a real company with a real office, a real physical address, a real customer service number and a real product that actually gets shipped to your house?
quote:Originally posted by PattysPaper: >>>REPLY: Yeah. And that's also true of any products or services that you buy from companies in Canada. It's not that big of a deal. <<<
Tony, it has nothing to do with being "snobbish" as you call it. At least the Canadian government has a regulatory body that watchdogs against scams. Do you really think you're going to get the Panamanian government to get you your money back? I doubt it.
And yes, it is about value.. So, tell me why the value is being placed on the payout to the rep at $1000 per sale of a $1295 product? That leaves the value of the product at $295? So, the consumer is paying $1295 so the rep can get a commission worth 3x more than the product?
Tell me how this makes any sense or how you would explain that to John Doe consumer?
These are digital products that cost basically nothing to produce with no way of verifying the credibility of the authors? Where is the value in that?
To TonyRush, who is trying to sell Liberty League, & to PattysPaper, who appears to sincerely want to understand, here are the facts. The product is the Emerald Passport To Prosperity. It is the focus of about 15% of the 6 minute movie. It attempts to teach to you to be financially and investment savvy and personally balanced via a mutitude of online dvd's, cd'c and e-books. There are 2 main sections - Wealth Passport & Self Passport. Combined, all the courses are the equivalent of about 60 undergraduate level unlversity credit hours. It's the kind of material you would expect to be published by top attorneys, CPA.s, Financial Planners, Personal Success Coaches, etc.
The intiial cost to publish and produce all this education was over $1,200,000. That includes 3 recent additions which were Power Negotiating - 10 Hour DVD Course, Entreprenneurship - 8 Hour CD Course, and Real Estate Investing - 12 Hour DVD Course to be added in 60 days.
When new courses are added, current customers in their first subscription year pay nothing for them, while renewing customers pay $89 annually to be eligible for all updates and additions. Emerald Passport also has a Mentor Center and regularly scheduled interactive Webinars.
You know so little, yet you speak as if you know so much, and good people actually listen to you. That's the sad part. Emerald Passport is a 15 - yes, 15 year old web based education publishing company. They've been retailing their own products, at these same prices, through direct retail channels. Two years ago, they decided to offer home business distributorships.
Now, how can a product sell for $1295 retail but wholesale for $295? Well, the product has been valued by outside professionals at from $5,000 to $10,000. Now remember the $1.2 million initial producton costs? Emerald Passport has sold roughly 60,000 units of their $1,295 product. That's $14,750,000. I'd say everybody is doing just fine.
But what about the customer who spent the $1,295 for this mysterious product? Well, they have a 4 day 100% money back guarantee. I think Liberty League's guarantee is 25%. So which product is worth the money, and which company truly stands behind their product? Gee, that's a tough question.
I'm sorry, but I'm almost finished. I've just had enough of company bashing out of ignorance, not facts. Somebody mentioned that Emerald Passport's product is not discussed in enough detail on the website. ***THE WEBSITE!?*** You see, they have 11 of them! Go to [URL=http://www.wealthandself.com] or [URL=http://www.theproductpage.com.]
Okay, I've taken enough of your time. This is my 9th home business in 7 years, but the 1st that has allowed me to work full time at home. If you want to talk or write, I'm a good listener or reader.
posted March 05, 2005 01:31 PM
Rich said, "But what about the customer who spent the $1,295 for this mysterious product? Well, they have a 4 day 100% money back guarantee. I think Liberty League's guarantee is 25%. So which product is worth the money, and which company truly stands behind their product? Gee, that's a tough question."
Rich, you're evidently as misinformed as you claim others to be.
Liberty League offers a 100% money-back guarantee from the time you enroll AND from the time you receive the Beyond Freedom Home Study course. In normal timeframes, there's about five business days from the time someone purchases the course until they need to make a decision on whether they're keeping it.
I've never talked to anyone in Liberty League who's ever been asked for a refund.
As far as the claims on Emerald Passport's product value, I have my doubts. For $1.2 million in development costs, one would think you'd have more to show for it than just a downloadable product. (For clarification, there's no such thing as an "online DVD" or an "online CD". DVDs and CDs are tangible products whereas streaming audio and video are not.)
Further, if someone had actually spent that kind of money on the product, wouldn't you expect that it would deserve more focus than 54 seconds of the presentation?
I've never heard the claim that it's worth 60 college credits. Please reference the independent and 3rd party accrediting organization who made that estimate.
I don't mind bold claims. But, if you can't back them up, it's hype.
To your success,
Tony Rush
================================== Want to earn $1,000+ commissions with a company that actually has a home office, staff, customer service number and tangible product?
posted March 05, 2005 02:04 PM
[QUOTE]Originally posted by TonyRush: [B]Rich said, "But what about the customer who spent the $1,295 for this mysterious product? Well, they have a 4 day 100% money back guarantee. I think Liberty League's guarantee is 25%. So which product is worth the money, and which company truly stands behind their product? Gee, that's a tough question."
Rich, you're evidently as misinformed as you claim others to be.
Liberty League offers a 100% money-back guarantee from the time you enroll AND from the time you receive the Beyond Freedom Home Study course. In normal timeframes, there's about five business days from the time someone purchases the course until they need to make a decision on whether they're keeping it.
I've never talked to anyone in Liberty League who's ever been asked for a refund.
As far as the claims on Emerald Passport's product value, I have my doubts. For $1.2 million in development costs, one would think you'd have more to show for it than just a downloadable product. (For clarification, there's no such thing as an "online DVD" or an "online CD". DVDs and CDs are tangible products whereas streaming audio and video are not.)
Further, if someone had actually spent that kind of money on the product, wouldn't you expect that it would deserve more focus than 54 seconds of the presentation?
I've never heard the claim that it's worth 60 college credits. Please reference the independent and 3rd party accrediting organization who made that estimate.
I don't mind bold claims. But, if you can't back them up, it's hype. ____________________________________________
I stand corrected on the guarantee. 5 former Liberty distributors now on my team at Emerald told me that. I should have verified it - sorry.
Also, my math is rusty. I know the movie is between 6 & 7 minutes long, and I know the product is reviewed for about 1 minute and 25 seconds. However, as of next week, the whols platform for the presentation is changing. Instead of just one movie, the landing page will have a clickable tab for the business opportunity and one for the products. Most Emerald Passport Directors have asked for more upfront focus and attention on the product. It's nothing to be embarrassed about, it's to be presented with trumpets blazing. The 2 websites I mentioned showcase it very well, but we wanted more info upfront.
Just like you, I would not join a business opportunity unless I believed the product stood on its own 2 feet, that I would buy it at the same price even if no bizz opp was attached. To that end, many Emerald Passport Distributors give prospects temproary access to their online product suite. During my time with Liberty, we couldn't do that, because it wasn't an online product. I was wondering if that had changed, because it really is so nice to let a prospect see what they're buying before they buy it.
Of course, you're right about the online "dvd's" and such. It's just my way of describing a virtual product in "wrap your arms around it" terms.
I'm getting alot of former LLI distributors joining my team. In fact, most of the EPI directors have experienced the same situation. I even heard a rumor that Team Utopia, the biggest & most successful Liberty League team for a long time, had moved over to Emerald Passport. One of my former LLI distributors told me that and, quite frankly, I didn't believe it.
Some weeks ago, I accidentally landed on the Team Utopia Website, and they, as a whole group, have switched over to Emeral Passport. I wonder why they would do something like that.
When I find the valuation data again, I'll publish it here, if you're really sure you want me to do that. Until then...
posted March 05, 2005 04:50 PM
Rich said, "I'm getting alot of former LLI distributors joining my team. In fact, most of the EPI directors have experienced the same situation."
REPLY: I love these claims. Amateurish at best, it strives to imply that one company is supposedly "better" than another because someone chose to move.
Melaleuca reps go to LifeForce. LifeForce reps to go to Melaleuca.
What can be derived from that? Well, not much.
Funnily enough, we get tons of EPI reps that come to Liberty League. And when I ask "why" they tell me it's because they prefer to work in a company that's not based in Panama, has an honest-to-God tangible product, a real home office, etc.
Rich, here's a direct question: why doesn't Emerald Passport give full disclosure to its members about the fact that they're based in Panama and that no one can actually contact the company directly?
----- Rich said, " I even heard a rumor that Team Utopia, the biggest & most successful Liberty League team for a long time, had moved over to Emerald Passport. One of my former LLI distributors told me that and, quite frankly, I didn't believe it.
Some weeks ago, I accidentally landed on the Team Utopia Website, and they, as a whole group, have switched over to Emeral Passport. I wonder why they would do something like that."
REPLY: No idea. But I don't base my decisions on "what everyone else was doing"?
Or, as your mom probably asked you when you were a child: "If everyone was jumping off a cliff, would you do it, too?"
--- Rich said, "When I find the valuation data again, I'll publish it here, if you're really sure you want me to do that."
REPLY: It doesn't affect me either way so feel free to post what you like. I don't know who "Team Utopia" is so I assure you I have no interest either way.
Tony Rush
================================== Find out how I earned $5,000 in my first week in a real company with a real product and a real home office!
posted March 05, 2005 08:28 PM
[QUOTE]Originally posted by TonyRush: [b]Rich said, "I'm getting alot of former LLI distributors joining my team. In fact, most of the EPI directors have experienced the same situation."
REPLY: I love these claims. Amateurish at best, it strives to imply that one company is supposedly "better" than another because someone chose to move.
Melaleuca reps go to LifeForce. LifeForce reps to go to Melaleuca.
What can be derived from that? Well, not much.
Tony Said: Funnily enough, we get tons of EPI reps that come to Liberty League. And when I ask "why" they tell me it's because they prefer to work in a company that's not based in Panama, has an honest-to-God tangible product, a real home office, etc.
Reply: I don't believe two of your statements. First, you can't possibly be in LLI and not be aware of Team Utopia. Next, you'll be telling me you don't know who Brent & Shane are. Remember, I was with LLI for a good while, and I don't remember you saying you were with EPI. So one of us speaks from first hand knowledge, while the other speaks from speculation and heresay. Second, in a private email exchange between you and me, I challenge you to give me the names of people that have left EPI for LLI. I'll bet you for every name you can give me, I can give you 10 that did the opposite. By the way, "funnily" is not a word.
Also, lets cut the bull about EPI and 1-Up Automated being so similar. When EPI decided to go the home business route,they outsourced the marketing function to a group of guys called the Power Profit Team. PPT Produced a flash movie which, unknown to EPI, was copied virtually verbatim from the 1-Up Automated Movie. It was a great movie. But that is the only similarity. EPI has since severed their ties with the Power Profit Team and have taken the home business marketing function in house to maintain integrity and control.
Let's also cut the bull about EPI not having a "tangible" product. My daughter takes some of her university classes online, not in the classroom. Those classes are no less tangible than the ones she takes face to face. Also, you forget that I have the Beyond Freedom Course and the Passport to Prosperity Course. I see why one of them is freely shared before purchase, while the other is closely guarded until after purchase.
Tony Said: Rich, here's a direct question: why doesn't Emerald Passport give full disclosure to its members about the fact that they're based in Panama and that no one can actually contact the company directly?
Reply: Now, for the last piece of misguided daggers. Full disclosure is given on the first website we direct our prospects to, and also in our e-brochure. For your information, the complete address and contact info is:
Emerald Passport Inc. World Trade Center Building of Panama 8th Floor, 53rd Street, Urb. Marbella Panama City, Republic of Panama 00832 Telephone: 507.206.9418
Well, I guess you can't use that one anymore - so sorry. There are a multitude of reasons for being headquartered in Panama. Some other companies you might know, like Federal Express, DHL, Exxon, Citibank, Continental Airlines, Marriott, Price Costco, and Bell South are also there. Gosh, why are they hiding out south of the border? Well, let's see.
The US dollar has been Panama’s currency since 1904. Panama City is the most developed city south of the United States. It boast’s some of the top companies in the world. Panama is ranked amongst the world’s freest economies. It is at the top of the list of the countries with best access to capital, according to a report from the Milken Institute published in 2002. Panama has the most modern and successful international banking center, with more than 85 banks from 35 countries represented. Maybe the question should be, why isn't your company headquartered their?
[This message has been edited by richhendin (edited March 05, 2005).]
posted March 06, 2005 03:02 PM
Rich said, "Reply: I don't believe two of your statements. First, you can't possibly be in LLI and not be aware of Team Utopia. Next, you'll be telling me you don't know who Brent & Shane are."
REPLY: Well, you can believe it. Perhaps not everyone is as enamored with other distributors as you are. Never heard of "Team Utopia".
--- Rich said, "Remember, I was with LLI for a good while, and I don't remember you saying you were with EPI. So one of us speaks from first hand knowledge, while the other speaks from speculation and heresay."
REPLY: Rich, I don't need to touch a stove to know that it's hot. I never claimed to be an expert on EPI. But, given the fact that I've got plenty of EPI reps that buy leads from me and call me on a regular basis, I'm fairly astute about what their experience has been.
---- Rich said, " Second, in a private email exchange between you and me, I challenge you to give me the names of people that have left EPI for LLI. I'll bet you for every name you can give me, I can give you 10 that did the opposite. By the way, "funnily" is not a word."
As far as your challenge, I don't waste my time with keeping a dossier on people moving from company to company. It's enough to say that it's happening. But, don't feel too bad: there are people also leaving LLI & EPI and going to Coastal Vacations. I couldn't care less and it doesn't impact my business at all.
By the way, before you ask, "dossier" is also a real word.
---- Rich said, "Also, lets cut the bull about EPI and 1-Up Automated being so similar. When EPI decided to go the home business route,they outsourced the marketing function to a group of guys called the Power Profit Team. PPT Produced a flash movie which, unknown to EPI, was copied virtually verbatim from the 1-Up Automated Movie. It was a great movie. But that is the only similarity. EPI has since severed their ties with the Power Profit Team and have taken the home business marketing function in house to maintain integrity and control. "
REPLY: Pure B.S. Do you honestly believe that EPI was UNAWARE of the content of the movie that OneUpAutomated used last year??? Particularly when so many EPI were also with 1UpAutomated?
Yeah, right. Sounds to me like political double-talk and "plausible deniability".
---- Rich said, "Let's also cut the bull about EPI not having a "tangible" product. My daughter takes some of her university classes online, not in the classroom. Those classes are no less tangible than the ones she takes face to face. Also, you forget that I have the Beyond Freedom Course and the Passport to Prosperity Course. I see why one of them is freely shared before purchase, while the other is closely guarded until after purchase."
REPLY: Rich, the burden of proof is on you. Given the fact that EPI's presentations are almost completely devoid of any product details, it's naive not to expect that people would perceive that as a weak area. After all, you can go to LLI's site and find that almost the ENTIRE site is devoted to the product -- not to the opportunity.
By the way, I never said that intangible products have no value. But, yes, I AM saying that EPI's product isn't worth the price. And that's based on the fact that EPI nor it's reps makes any legitimate effort to actually TALK about the product!
---- Rich said, "Now, for the last piece of misguided daggers. Full disclosure is given on the first website we direct our prospects to, and also in our e-brochure. For your information, the complete address and contact info is:
Emerald Passport Inc. World Trade Center Building of Panama 8th Floor, 53rd Street, Urb. Marbella Panama City, Republic of Panama 00832 Telephone: 507.206.9418"
REPLY: Hey, Rich, anyone can do a WHOIS search. I'm talking about full disclosure for people who are looking at the business.
Let's do a poll: I'll bet $10,000 that 99% of the people coming off the conference call do NOT know that the company is based outside U.S. jurisdiction. If the company is so proud of their location (as you seem to claim below), why not just announce it so the people know who they're dealing with? And where they'll have to go for legal recourse if they have a disagreement with the company?
Want to take my bet? If you want to take me up on it, let me know. In the meantime, Liberty League will keep announcing our location and track record in the first five minutes of every conference call.
--- Rich said, "Well, I guess you can't use that one anymore - so sorry. There are a multitude of reasons for being headquartered in Panama. Some other companies you might know, like Federal Express, DHL, Exxon, Citibank, Continental Airlines, Marriott, Price Costco, and Bell South are also there. Gosh, why are they hiding out south of the border? Well, let's see."
REPLY: Rich, you're sure stretching the point a long way, don't you think?
Federal Express is based in Memphis, TN, not Panama.
Exxon Mobil is based in Texas, not Panama.
Marriott is based in Maryland, not Panama.
Bellsouth is based in Atlanta, not Panama.
Continental Airlines is based in Houston, not Panama.
Evidently you've mistakenly been sold the idea that because a company is PRESENT in a company means that they're BASED there.
Besides, my problem isn't that they're based in Panama. It's the fact that these types of programs (EPI and Coastal Vacations) are usually based offshore and they don't go out of their way to tell their distributors.
Heck, I'd bet money that there are EPI reps reading this forum who had NO IDEA that their company was based in Panama until I brought it up. ---- Rich said, "Maybe the question should be, why isn't your company headquartered their?"
REPLY: LOL. You're joking, right?
No, I think Scottsdale, Arizona is serving us nicely.
Rich, you and I can keep going back and forth all day long in what will be nothing more than a waste of time. If you're happy with what you're doing, that's great.
posted March 08, 2005 01:18 PM
All good points Rich, but if you don't like bashing why do it?
Liberty League has the same standard 100% Refund Policy that EP has, which is the same that any company has that wants to be in compliance with the FTC.
quote:Originally posted by richhendin: To TonyRush, who is trying to sell Liberty League, & to PattysPaper, who appears to sincerely want to understand, here are the facts. The product is the Emerald Passport To Prosperity. It is the focus of about 15% of the 6 minute movie. It attempts to teach to you to be financially and investment savvy and personally balanced via a mutitude of online dvd's, cd'c and e-books. There are 2 main sections - Wealth Passport & Self Passport. Combined, all the courses are the equivalent of about 60 undergraduate level unlversity credit hours. It's the kind of material you would expect to be published by top attorneys, CPA.s, Financial Planners, Personal Success Coaches, etc.
The intiial cost to publish and produce all this education was over $1,200,000. That includes 3 recent additions which were Power Negotiating - 10 Hour DVD Course, Entreprenneurship - 8 Hour CD Course, and Real Estate Investing - 12 Hour DVD Course to be added in 60 days.
When new courses are added, current customers in their first subscription year pay nothing for them, while renewing customers pay $89 annually to be eligible for all updates and additions. Emerald Passport also has a Mentor Center and regularly scheduled interactive Webinars.
You know so little, yet you speak as if you know so much, and good people actually listen to you. That's the sad part. Emerald Passport is a 15 - yes, 15 year old web based education publishing company. They've been retailing their own products, at these same prices, through direct retail channels. Two years ago, they decided to offer home business distributorships.
Now, how can a product sell for $1295 retail but wholesale for $295? Well, the product has been valued by outside professionals at from $5,000 to $10,000. Now remember the $1.2 million initial producton costs? Emerald Passport has sold roughly 60,000 units of their $1,295 product. That's $14,750,000. I'd say everybody is doing just fine.
But what about the customer who spent the $1,295 for this mysterious product? Well, they have a 4 day 100% money back guarantee. I think Liberty League's guarantee is 25%. So which product is worth the money, and which company truly stands behind their product? Gee, that's a tough question.
I'm sorry, but I'm almost finished. I've just had enough of company bashing out of ignorance, not facts. Somebody mentioned that Emerald Passport's product is not discussed in enough detail on the website. ***THE WEBSITE!?*** You see, they have 11 of them! Go to [URL=http://www.wealthandself.com] or [URL=http://www.theproductpage.com.]
Okay, I've taken enough of your time. This is my 9th home business in 7 years, but the 1st that has allowed me to work full time at home. If you want to talk or write, I'm a good listener or reader.
posted March 14, 2005 06:04 PM
I actually have had an awesome experience with Emerald Passport. We have an awesome product and do not require anyone to purchase the product in order to promote it unlike most of the companies out there. All the negative tslk usually comes from those who feel threatened by us at EPI. We have one up on all those other companies out there: We have truely defined the definition of TEAM. I have been with another company out there with the same compensation plan, but once you purchased their product for $1495.00 + S$H, you were spending a ton of money in advertising, monthly fees, and in no shape or form would any of the BIG DOGS share their income earning secrets. I guess they don't really believe in their product-"there is enough wealth to go around for everyone". And "YES" our company is based out in Panama and so is FEDEX. http://www.Truesourceofwealth.com
posted March 16, 2005 12:52 AM
I have enjoyed the banter back and forth... really I have but, both Rich and Tony need to step back from the forest a little.
Yes, LLI does talk about their product on calls in the way of testimonials and on their website. Despite the lack of info on the video (sorry Rich, I timed it: 6 min 45 sec. total with 30-34 sec on product) EPI has information on their website, but quite frankly as a visitor, I would get tired of clicking through the maze of links to get to the info.
Both companies have room to grow with respect to how they position and market their products. As a consumer, looking at the varying opportunities, the decision is going to be an emotional one. You guys are smart enough to know that. How does the video "hit" you? How does the call with the potential advisor "hit" you? Of course it's an emotional decision! We WANT it to be... and every successful salesperson/organization (regardless of industry) will tell you so!
Look the bottom line is this, people leave and join companies/opportunities for various reasons. Teams leave from one to another, sometimes for merely "political differences".... and sometimes people just get burnt out and are looking for a new spark to start the flame again. It doesn't matter who goes where or why.... because we all know as marketers that someone is always looking and something about what we have will "turn them on" or not. But it's not my decision to make, it's theirs and whatever logic they come up with to make that decision.... fine...... "Next".
Deadra, to answer your question, (if you are still listening), my advice to you is to read as much as you can on the corporate websites about the various companies your friend has chosen, listen to the calls (if available), and take note of the warnings you hear.... BUT.... choose a company you feel has a product you can get behind. It doesn't matter if it's vitamins, miracle juice, personal development, wealth mastery or toenail scrubbers.... because when it comes down to it, you have to be able to sell the product or at the very least continue selling your "team" on why they should sell it. Get it?
Best of luck!
By the way, just for the sake of clarity I have information direct from FedEx.com:
posted March 16, 2005 07:10 PM
All you LLI people, why havn'y you mentioned to Deadra that all she has to do is go on a GOOGLE search and type in Liberty League Int. scham and hit search. HMMMM! None of you guys mantioned that. Must of slipped your brainwashed minds. Also go to the MLM watchdog site Deadra, and read the article on LLI and Coastal Vacations. At least we alow our prospects to view our product if they so desire. How do you allow someone to view a LLI product if you can actually say they is a product. I've learned more from Jerry Clark and Napoleon Hill than that whole program. Don't get me wrong it was a great intrduction to personal developement but once you get a little wise you'll realize how many complete libraries from real motivational speakers you could have purchased. WOW we are based in Panama. At least EPI has an answer to a question. How do you guys answer this one, "May I sample your product I will be promoting?" Almost sounds close to the word PYRAMID. And by the way FEDEX is based in Panama do your homework.
posted March 16, 2005 08:22 PM
My dearest Deservetoberich....
How sad is it that you make the assumption that I am with LLI. I made no such claim. Maybe you assumed that I was because I timed the video? Or perhaps because I corrected an EPI member on the location of FedEx HQ? Neither one of those is reason enough to believe that I am with one company or the next. Truth is, it doesn't matter.
I prefer not to make assumptions, because you know what they say happens when you *** -u-me. Especially since in the beginning of my post I remarked that BOTH companies have improvements to make and in the end Deadra's friend has to make her choice on what fires her up.... not anyone else's OPINION about who's company is better.
And would someone PLEASE, attach the link to the website from which you are getting the information that FedEx HQ is located in Panama. Really... I am open for suggestion and correction and will willingly admit when I am wrong, but, according to their website http://www.fedex.com/us/about/today/?link=4 (click on the "facts" link in each of their various divisions) then check back with me. If Tony and I are wrong, I'll eat my hat...... just as soon as I am off the phone with FedEx informing them that their headquarters are not actually where they say they are and are, in fact, in Panama.
Their regional Carribean office is located in Florida. Their Asian offices are in Hong Kong. Their Canadian offices are in Ontario Their European & Middle East offices are in Brussels
posted March 18, 2005 09:53 AM
Regarding who is based in Panama versus who operates there, see the Inaugural Remarks by Ambassador Linda E. Watt, as prepared for Panama Day in Atlanta. http://panama.usembassy.gov/panama/Inaugural.html
"There are more than 1,600 foreign owned companies representing 39 countries in Georgia, including 153 companies from Canada, Mexico, Latin America and the Caribbean. Atlanta serves as home to operations for 12 Fortune 500 companies and 24 Fortune 1,000 companies."
Sure, many large corporations have a "base" in Panama but not sure about being "headquartered" there. I have been to Panama and I must say it feels like being in Miami. However, given the tax benefits of being a Panamanian Corporations, I can see why many companies would want to have a base there. My research on Emerald Passport shows that the charter is indeed more than 15 years old but the Emerald Passort project and name is less than 3 years old. There is no doubt that this company has always been based in Panama.
posted March 18, 2005 10:13 AM
[QUOTE]Originally posted by wanital: [B]My dearest Deservetoberich....
How sad is it that you make the assumption that I am with LLI. I made no such claim. Maybe you assumed that I was because I timed the video? Or perhaps because I corrected an EPI member on the location of FedEx HQ? Neither one of those is reason enough to believe that I am with one company or the next. Truth is, it doesn't matter.
I prefer not to make assumptions, because you know what they say happens when you *** -u-me. Especially since in the beginning of my post I remarked that BOTH companies have improvements to make and in the end Deadra's friend has to make her choice on what fires her up.... not anyone else's OPINION about who's company is better.
And would someone PLEASE, attach the link to the website from which you are getting the information that FedEx HQ is located in Panama. Really... I am open for suggestion and correction and will willingly admit when I am wrong, but, according to their website http://www.fedex.com/us/about/today/?link=4 (click on the "facts" link in each of their various divisions) then check back with me. If Tony and I are wrong, I'll eat my hat...... just as soon as I am off the phone with FedEx informing them that their headquarters are not actually where they say they are and are, in fact, in Panama.
Rich Hendin replies: FEDEX is not headquartered in Panama City. However, they do have operations there. Here is some general info from an official Panamanian business and tourism site.
"...The US dollar has been Panama’s currency since 1904. Panama City is the most developed city south of the United States. It boast’s some of the top companies in the world including corporate giants such as Federal Express, DHL, Exxon, Citibank, Continental Airlines, Marriott, Price Costco, Bell South and many others. Panama has a stable government, a stable currency and virtually no inflation. Communication is facilitated via a world-class high-tech network, and Panama has become the technology and communications center for the region. Due to the long-term presence of the United States personnel and citizens in the Canal Zone, many Panamanians are fluent in English, even though the official language is Spanish.
Panama is ranked amongst the world’s most free economies. It is at the top of the list of the countries with best access to capital, according to a report from the Milken Institute published in 2002. As criteria, this report took into account the economic environment, banking development, capital markets, international recognition and sovereign risk. Panama has the most modern and successful international banking centers, with more than 85 banks from 35 countries represented. Some of the banks present are: Citibank, HSBC, Dresdner, Bank of Boston, International Commercial Bank of China, Banque Sudameris and more.
Panama has been ranked first in the region for low cost of living, operational cost, and index of labor by the Tripartite Committee, which consists of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)..."
Awhile back, Tony implied that Emerald Passport was in Panama to avoid USA scrutiny. I reponded to his implication incorrectly, because I did not have all the facts. The company, incorporated 1990, was originally called British Overseas Transcontinental Corporation and operated as a licensed broker in international finance. This a very common type of business in Panama which, due to the Panama Canal, the world's second largest Free Trade Zone (after Hong Kong) and the world's second largest international banking center (after Geneva)has an ongoing need for international financial companies. Years later, the name was changed to Emerald Passport when they successfully negotiated an exclusive agreement to distribute the products of Investors Educational Seminars, thereby allowing them to enter the explosive growth industry of continuing on-line education. EPI didn't set up shop in Panama to get around USA laws. They were already there!
posted March 18, 2005 10:31 AM
OOPPPSSS. Linda Watt was talking about Atlanta... but it sounded good ;-)
Still, Panama is known to have many large companies operating there... Also found this on the web:
Panama is known all over the world as an international business tax haven. Since taxes in Panama are assessed according to territoriality guidelines (ie only locally produced income may be taxed), foreign-source income is considered tax-free. as the government does not levy income taxes on businesses hosting their websites in Panama. Unlike in the US, Canada, Australia, Europe, and other G-7 nations, where regulators have created laws that tax online businesses hosted in their country, hosting your website in Panama allows you to run your e-business tax-free.
It would make sense therefore that they operate an Internet driven company out of where they were in the first place!
posted March 19, 2005 10:55 PM
Emerald Passport has a much better product than Liberty League. A large amount of people who get the Liberty League product either request a refund within the 3 days or seriously think about it. Very few are overjoyed at the product they get in the mail.
(I know this for a fact.)
There were lots of people who left Liberty League for greener pastures. I will admit that we're all indebted to the ground Liberty League broke. But why would anyone chose to promote a program with so much less leverage?
It just doesn't make sense... unless you have an established organization in Liberty League.
Emerald Passport is not like 1-Up Automated. 1-Up Automated had as a product a shared database of opt-in emails. Well it didn't take a rocket scientist to see that if everyone was mailing the SAME people about the SAME thing that it would get shut down pretty quickly for SPAM violations.
But yes, they did have a compelling movie, didn't they. I never joined because I knew there was no real product and it wouldn't last, but there were lots of people who got tricked into that one.
I like the fact that the movie does the sorting for me so I don't have to prospect. But marketing knowledge is obviously required for that.
And about Panama...
...what's wrong with a company incorporating offshore? It's an international business. It's mildly jingoistic to assume that a company should be based in the US.
posted March 20, 2005 08:05 AM
YouDeserveToBeRich said, "All you LLI people, why havn'y you mentioned to Deadra that all she has to do is go on a GOOGLE search and type in Liberty League Int. scham and hit search. HMMMM! None of you guys mantioned that. Must of slipped your brainwashed minds."
REPLY: Huh? If you're serious about this comment, then -- no offense -- but you don't have a clue how search engines work. Go type in "Football scam" and you'll get a ton of results there, too. Does that mean football is a scam? lol
---- YouDeserveToBeRich said, " Also go to the MLM watchdog site Deadra, and read the article on LLI and Coastal Vacations. At least we alow our prospects to view our product if they so desire. How do you allow someone to view a LLI product if you can actually say they is a product."
REPLY: I like Rod Cook. I really do. But MLMWatchdog can hardly be considered an objective site when Rod makes no effort to make distinctions between his opinions and the facts. It's little more than a tabloid.
As far as previewing the product, that's a no-brainer. We offer a 72-hour policy that allows every customer to review their Beyond Freedom Home Study Course to determine if they want to keep it or not. During those 72hours, should they decide that they don't want to keep it, they get a full no-hassle refund.
I honestly don't know what would be more fair than that.
---- YouDeserveToBeRich said, " I've learned more from Jerry Clark and Napoleon Hill than that whole program."
REPLY: That's hilarious considering that Jerry Clark recently spoke at one of our Liberty conferences and anyone who's familiar with Napoleon Hill would recognize the congruity of the information.
This comment makes me wonder if you actually ever used the course or even saw it.
---- YouDeserveToBeRich said, "Don't get me wrong it was a great intrduction to personal developement but once you get a little wise you'll realize how many complete libraries from real motivational speakers you could have purchased."
REPLY: Interesting opinion. I've personally spent more than $20,000 over the years on books, tapes, audios, classes, seminars, and resources. So, I certainly didn't need an "introduction" to personal development.
Instead, I find that the multimedia format and the fact that it's a tangible product makes the information more valuable than simply buying another Napoleon Hill book and wading through the archaic language. Or attending another "rah rah" seminar where people stand on their chairs and only get a buzz for a few days.
Liberty League's products are about nuts-and-bolts. Results. A life-changing impact.
(By the way, there's a new video there if you haven't seen it. Click the one that says "The Liberty League Story".)
--- YouDeserveToBeRich said, " WOW we are based in Panama. At least EPI has an answer to a question.
REPLY: Huh? Based on emails I've received from this and similar conversations, I'd estimate that less than 1/10th of 1% of people who attend EPI's calls have any idea of where the company is located.
EPI certainly doesn't advertise that they're based offshore. ----
YouDeserveToBeRich said, " How do you guys answer this one, "May I sample your product I will be promoting?"
REPLY: We answer it the way we always do. "Yes. You'll have 72 hours after you receive the product to get a full and complete refund if you're not completely satisfied."
But, since you bring it up, let me ask YOU the same question: If someone buys the EPI product, can they get a complete and total refund within 72 hours of receiving it with no hassle or headache? And do you put that in writing at the time of the purchase?
---- YouDeserveToBeRich said, "Almost sounds close to the word PYRAMID. And by the way FEDEX is based in Panama do your homework"
REPLY: LOL. This one is too ludicrous to even respond to.
Tony Rush
============================== Find out how I earned $5,000 in my first week in Liberty League! Free audio at http://www.tonyrush.com
[This message has been edited by TonyRush (edited March 20, 2005).]
I figured I would jump in. I have been catching up on all the posts in here and I have to say things are getting dirty... and that is a shame.
I personally have been with both Liberty League and Emerald Passport. I loved different aspects of liberty league, mainly the friendly atmosphere that is created. I left because I wanted something more automated (so I could choose if I wanted to phone prospect or not).
Looking back, there is a big benefit with Emerald Passport. The company is not getting complacent. They keep adding to the product, increasing its value but keeping the retail price the same. You cannot find many companies out there that offer this. I know I could purchase the Beyond Freedom course again today and it would be exactly the same as it was a year and a half ago.
But then again, this is my opinion. I am not by any means looking to put down LLI or say MINE IS BETTER. I would think we are all mature enough than not to do that... but then I see the posts above and couldn't believe how out of control things are getting.
So let me address a few misconceptions...
Tony asked if we have our new teammates sign something that gives them 3 days to get a refund from the time the product is released. YES. It protects them and us, especially since most of us take payments by credit card.
Has LLI formed something like that? I know when I was there, they discouraged credit card payments. If not, I could send you our agreement so you could tailor it to LLI.
Secondly, Emerald Passport is incorporated in Panama... SO WHAT! I actually have a private investigator who joined our team this month who thought that was a red flag. He did some research and came back to us to tell us he found it to be a blessing, not a curse that they are based in Panama and signed up. I would think an investigator would know what to look for, right!
I must remind everyone, we get paid first then pay the company. There is NO threat having the company in Panama. EPI operating costs are so low, we don't even ship product... so why would they close shop and run. *assuming that is why everyone is so skeptical*.
Now onto the defense of LLI. They have a good product. I would consider it introductory to personal development, but that is MY opinion. I had success there. I am a summit advisor and I shared every form of advertising I did. DOes that mean everyone does, no. I often wondered why... but so what. Its a business, its YOUR OWN business. Run it how you see fit.
Both companies work. You can make a substantial income in either provided you spend more time working on yourself than your business. SO many people fail because they want to play victim. I never go into a business wanting to know the refund policy, Because I don't care! I am not one to quit, or one to look for the back door on an opportunity.
If you believe in yourself, and your ability, either of these companies can take you to where you want to be!
See you at the top! And anyone in EPI, see you in PANAMA in APril!
posted March 21, 2005 10:52 AM
Kimberly, thanks for a well-thought out response. I found it to be very professional and it encouraged me to make sure my responses are in the same vein.
To further the dialogue, (and as you probably know) anyone in LLI can take payments any way they want. Many LLI associates take credit card payments, some use Stormpay, etc.
The reason for caution on credit cards (no matter what business you're in) is because unethical people can file false disputes with their banks and initiate a fraudulent chargeback.
I've never had any problem with it but I still prefer dealing with cashier's checks and money orders. It requires the prospect to give more consideration to their decision and they're less likely to make an impulsive decision.
Plus, it helps weed out the people who just jump into things without a commitment. When you have to actually go to your bank, get a money order or cashier's check and then mail it to your enroller, it requires more effort than an impulsive online purchase. So, the people who buy the product know what they're doing.
And, at the risk of being redundant, I don't have a problem with EPI being based in Panama. I just think they should be more forthcoming about it. As a leads broker who deals with dozens of networkers each week, I have several clients in EPI. Most of them have no idea where the company is located.
So, with no malice whatsoever, I believe EPI should give full disclosure of that fact on their presentations. Does anyone really feel comfortable joining a company where they don't know where the home office is based?
So, that's my basic opinion on that. I don't care where a company is located if I trust them. But I do think it should be clearly stated on their website and in the company overview aspect of the presentations.
Again, thanks for a great post.
Tony Rush
================================== Learn how I earned $5,000 my first week in Liberty League International. Free audio at http://www.tonyrush.com
posted April 07, 2005 10:46 PM
I've been with Emerald Passport for 3 months. I am now doing over $60,000 per month in sales. Yes I was the winner of the March Madness competition for Phase I sales.
I just returned from the Emerald Passport Conference in Panama City Panama. I had the privaledge of spending time with the President of Emerald Passport Mr. Alonso de la Guardia and Master Distributor Mr. Sam Lojik. These are very classy people with real vision.
So where are they located? In the World Trade Center in Panama City Panama right next to Proctor and Gample, Coca Cola, Federal Express, Johnson and Johnson, and the list goes on. I was standing there yesterday so I know it to be true. These people and this company is for REAL. They put on a world class event. Even the ex-Liberty Leagers with EPI said this conference blew away anyting they had EVER attended for LLI. How was Greece by the way? What you had 3 speakers? We had over 20 world class speakers and I have to say my head is ringing from all of the information I learned at that conference.
I don't see how it could be topped, and I have been and entrepreneur in the event business for 16 years prior to joining EPI.
Emerald Passport's location present's a unique opportunity for a global business. Being in Panama is not a negative it is a Positive. Overhead is low. Telecomunications Infrastructure is extensive.
Our products are about wealth and personal developement. We heard information at the conference that could not be presented in the US. And we also had top US speakers at the event.
No I didn't make $5000 my first week or any BS like that. When you hear claims like that they are from Warm Market enrollments, which is not bad, but they are misleading to potential new distributors. I pounded out my business the real way, from scratch. It took me 3 weeks to get qualified including the week between Christams and the New Year. From nowhere to the top in 3 months. And I was getting ready to join LLI when I found EPI. I had my check cut and everything. What a break that it was finding EPI, because I know people in LLI that signed with them at the same time I enrolled with EPI that have not made a qualifying sale yet, in 3 months. They have spent thousands on advertising and made thousands of phone calls. My marketing system does all of the sorting for me. I only talk to serious people and I don;t have to call 200 to find one.
Emerald Passport is the Biz Op to beat!
Jim Rivas Phase I and Phase II Director Member EPI Executive Leadership Council EPI Top Producer http://www.CashHereOnline.com
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[This message has been edited by tunajim70 (edited April 07, 2005).]
[This message has been edited by tunajim70 (edited April 07, 2005).]
quote:No I didn't make $5000 my first week or any BS like that. When you hear claims like that they are from Warm Market enrollments, which is not bad, but they are misleading to potential new distributors.
No, actually I enrolled 7 people in my first 9 days. I've enrolled four people today. None of them were warm market nor did I bring anyone over from a previous organization.
quote:What a break that it was finding EPI, because I know people in LLI that signed with them at the same time I enrolled with EPI that have not made a qualifying sale yet, in 3 months.
True. And that's true in EPI as well.
Bottom line: there are people in both EPI and LLI who make great money and people who are floundering. I think you'll agree that has more to do with their commitment, their level of "coachability", etc. than anything else.
So, it's not quite accurate to say that someone is failing in LLI because of the lack of a system, support, training or any shortcomings on the part of the company.
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posted February 02, 2005 09:11 AM
