It’s Troy Dooly, the Beachside CEO and Editor of TalkGigs.News, coming to you from the sunny shores of the Emerald Coast for another episode of TalkGigs.News! I’m out here enjoying the beach while my daughters are off having some fun in the sand and joining friends for a Bible study. There’s nothing better than the beach vibe to dive into the latest buzz in direct selling, MLM, and the gig economy. With over 30 years in the game, covering everything from video reporting to compliance and business development, I’m excited to share the stories, trends, and insights that really matter to entrepreneurs like you on Main Street. Let’s dive in!
Today’s episode is all about Pecan Jacks, a local favorite on the Emerald Coast. I’ve known this family for ages, and they’re absolutely crushing it with their praline pecans—seriously, the bourbon praline pecan is to die for! If you’re wandering the beach and in the mood for some ice cream, definitely swing by Pecan Jacks. Plus, if you’re an entrepreneur looking for a cool franchise opportunity that won’t break the bank, their business is great for dreamers on Main Street. I just finished off a batch of their pralines, and trust me, you’re going to want to check them out!
A Story of Resilience
This week, I’m moved by Blake Mallens’ story. He’s the president of Pruvit and one of the founders of Visalus. Last year, during the wildfires in California, Blake and his family lost everything. I’ve been through hurricanes, but a fire? That’s a whole different ballgame. After getting his family to safety, Blake returned to help his neighbors. I’ve known him for years and shared countless meals with him, so it broke my heart to hear about his loss. But what’s impressive is his drive to pay it forward. Check out his podcast, “Shift,” on the Direct Sales News Channel, where he talks about rising from the ashes. It’s worth a listen if you’re looking for some inspiration.
Celebrating Industry Wins
I’m thrilled to share some big wins in direct selling. Nature’s Sunshine just snagged a Stevie Award for their sustainability efforts, and I think that’s a huge deal. Living here during the 2010 Gulf oil spill, I saw folks cleaning beaches and moving turtles to safety—sustainability hits home. When companies step up to do better, I’m all for it. Amway’s been named a Skin Cancer Foundation Corporate Council Bronze Ally, proving that MLM companies can change lives through research. And let’s not forget Youngevity’s late Dr. Joel Wallach, who fought hard to get an ingredient FDA-approved. These stories remind me why I love this industry.
Going Global and Tackling Tariffs
Speaking of global moves, Sunrider debuted a 1,000-square-foot Experience Center in China for product trials and leadership training, just 10 minutes from their manufacturing base. Meanwhile, doTERRA launched in Kazakhstan with a massive event at the Palace of the Republic, drawing over 800 attendees. These expansions got me thinking about tariffs. Some folks worry companies will go belly-up, but I see a shift—more companies will manufacture abroad, building bigger sales opportunities overseas. I’m as patriotic as they come, but we’re all connected globally. Don’t shy away from international markets if you’re building a business.
Health Innovations and Compliance
I was blown away to learn that CMN Hospital in Mexico, a leader in alternative cancer treatments, uses Asanté Organics’ greens and reds in their regimens. Michael and Danny Winger, based out of Phoenix, are making waves with their small company, and I think that’s pretty awesome. On the compliance front, I’m gearing up to dive deeper into IM Markets Academy’s six-year battle with Nevada regulators and the FTC. Stay tuned for that next week—it will be a juicy one.
The Gig Economy Surge
Now, let’s talk about the economy. People keep asking me, “Troy, how’s the economy affecting the gig economy?” Here’s the deal: by the end of 2025, 50% of the U.S. workforce will be 1099 workers—freelancers, TaskRabbits, you name it. In 2023, 36% of workers were already 1099, a 90% surge! Sure, we’ve seen a 0.3% GDP retraction, but compare that to Obama’s first 100 days at -4% or Biden’s +8%. It’s not a crisis. Inflation’s at 2.4% now, down from 8% last year, and families are getting creative—raising chickens, eating their eggs, like my brother Jef Welch, a homesteader in North Carolina, taught me.
Rethinking the MLM Narrative
I’ve made a fortune in network marketing, and I used to think it was the greatest opportunity in America. But with half the workforce in the gig economy, the old MLM pitch—passive income, residual revenue without work—is dead. Companies like Modere showed us that building once doesn’t guarantee lifelong riches. Instead, I’m urging you to meet people where they are. If someone wants to build a big team, show them how. If they just want a side hustle, don’t knock it. I’m terrible at Forex investing—my buddy Matt Ward tried to teach me, but it’s not my thing. Know your people’s strengths.
The Rise of Omnichannel
I’m seeing a trend in direct selling: membership-based models. Companies are offering products, education, and travel under one umbrella. Youngevity’s the OG of omnichannel, but this approach is spreading fast. If you’re a company owner, go omnichannel. Market through multiple channels, offer diverse products, and watch your business grow. The gig economy’s booming, and you need to adapt.
My Call to You
As I wrap up, I want you to ignore the fear-mongering and political noise. Focus on your main street, your economy, and the global piece you can influence. Numbers don’t lie, but they can be twisted—stay sharp. You can’t change the whole world, but you can change your corner of it. Go out there, live well, and finish strong. Join me next week on TalkGigs.News for more insights, and let’s keep riding the waves of 2025 together!
Live Strong, Finish Well
Troy Dooly, The Beachside CEO
Editor of TalkGigs.News
