This week we wrap up our summer series with a conversation I’ve been wanting to have for ages. It’s honestly taken me a long time to get up the courage to ruffle some feathers in service of the greater good. In today's episode, I'm talking with Emily Paulson about direct sales - also known as network marketing, social selling, and multi-level marketing (MLM).   Although it goes by a few different names, the principles are the same, and we're going to dig into how the business model really works. After being a completely unsuccessful consultant with 2 MLM companies, my goal with this episode just might be to have a little vindication….    This type of business model has left a negative impression on women in terms of what owning, and growing a business is all about. I sincerely believe that owning your own business is the best way to have it all, and it pains me to think women who want to start something of their own hold themselves back because of what they've experienced being exposed to this culture. If you’re in a Direct Sales business, I really want you to hear me when I say that this isn’t about you, the consultant, it’s about the company and the business model as a whole.     As we get ready to launch the Style Network again, I knew it was time to get over my fear of offending people and talk about this–in hopes that women who do want to start something of their own won’t hold themselves back because they believe they have to follow a business model that just feels icky. Having a wildly successful business is possible.