This is a public posting on the AwesomeIBO™ Blog, Amway Media Blog Comments and Get The Facts Forum.
One more thought about the ongoing discussion between IBOs who are for and against the professional development systems...
As a personal observation, I can see 2 types of IBOs, discounting any fake ones who might be lurking around the forums just to stir the nest and create internal strife among us...
1. Those who value their standing as independent business owners who own their own business (ie. Independence FROM Amway); and
2. Those who value the existence of Amway and her products and wish that we would all just submit to the wishes of the Corp. and become her (almost) non-salaried salespeople (Dependence ON Amway).
Now, can we live together, respecting and giving space to each other to pursue their respective preferences?
Must Group #2 insist that CDs, Books and Functions be banned/diminished/controlled?
On the other hand, could Group #1 state more clearly that participation in the Systems is entirely voluntary and that you are free to get out at anytime and be on your own - retailing, sponsoring and using only sales materials from the Corp.?
However, if there must be a clash of ideology, then my loyalty stays with Group #1 because I treasure my independence from Amway, will fight for it with my life and thus may my Group prevail.
P/S. One of the reasons why I do NOT use "Amway", "Quixtar", "Nutrilite", "Artistry", "eSpring" etc. during my business presentation, is simply because it is NOT right to do so.
These are exclusive trademarks of Alticor/Amway/Quixtar (check with the Corp. on this!) and none of yours nor mine, and therefore we should NOT use them when possible.
We must and should protect Amway our business partner.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Destitute
NOTE! This video has political overtones, but it was NOT posted with politics in mind. Instead, I ask all viewers to focus on how much our lives would be radically different if we choose to succeed in Network Marketing while we are still physically able and can! What if these individuals had chosen to give building a pipeline a shot when they came across it? While no one can guarantee success, making a decision to succeed in any profession, especially private franchising, is indeed a choice. At least we have a choice.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Time To Use Amway GLISTER Toothpaste Instead!
The toothpaste scandal has hit the USA again, this time involving the venerable Colgate! Read on for yourself.
Colgate toothpaste in US recall
Colgate-labelled toothpaste sold in discount stores in the US has been found to contain a toxic chemical. The firm that makes the toothpaste was quick to distance itself from these products, calling them counterfeits.
Colgate-Palmolive said the firm "does not and would never use" diethylene glycol (DEG) - used in anti-freeze - as an ingredient.
The scandal follows the discovery of a shipment of Chinese-made contaminated toothpaste in the US.
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said DEG, which is sometimes used as a low-cost but potentially deadly substitute for glycerine sweetener in cough medicines, posed a "low health risk" but did not belong in toothpaste.
| | We will spare no effort to help consumers avoid counterfeits Reuben Mark, chief executive, Colgate-Palmolive |
The chemical was also found in a batch of Chinese-made toothpaste exports in Nicaragua about two weeks ago, after which the FDA warned consumers to avoid toothpaste exported from China.
Recall
The New York-based firm said the fakes are being sold in five-ounce (100ml) tubes, a size not made or sold in the US and that they are labelled made in South Africa.
It said it did not import toothpaste into the US from South Africa.
Misspelled words on the packaging of the tube was another way of identifying the "fake" products, the firm said.
But Colgate-Palmolive confirmed it had launched a recall of these toothpaste tubes from discount retail outlets in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Maryland, where they were discovered.
It also said it was contacting all its accounts that handle Colgate across the US to ensure they have no counterfeit stock and would work with the American Dental Association and American Dental Hygienists to help dental professionals answer patient questions.
"We will spare no effort to help consumers avoid counterfeits and support regulators in their efforts to remove these products from the marketplace," said Colgate-Palmolive chairman and chief executive Reuben Mark.
Friday, June 15, 2007
The NEW! Amway and the $60 Million
It is late here in my country, but I thought the world should know:
1. A NEW Amway is about to be born; and
2. More than $60 MILLION is going to be paid out by her.
Meanwhile, check out Get The Facts, The Opportunity Zone and the Amway Media Blog if you cannot wait for me to grab the details here...
Yeah, I cannot wait to see that $60 million appearing in fresh bonuses and incentives!
1. A NEW Amway is about to be born; and
2. More than $60 MILLION is going to be paid out by her.
Meanwhile, check out Get The Facts, The Opportunity Zone and the Amway Media Blog if you cannot wait for me to grab the details here...
Yeah, I cannot wait to see that $60 million appearing in fresh bonuses and incentives!
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Preservatives can damage your DNA
While newspaper articles sometimes report on negative information about certain nutrients prematurely, only to find out that another set of studies found otherwise results, and cause a lot of unnecessary hoo-hah, the following might be common sense enough to warrant a serious look. It is about the preservatives used in liquid products, and most, if not all, of the so-called "MLM juices" out there in the market contain it.
Time for me to grab even more NUTRILITE Active 8 and Acerola Cherry... Read it and arm yourself with knowledge.
Caution: Some soft drinks may seriously harm your health
Expert links additive to cell damage
By Martin Hickman, Consumer Affairs Correspondent
Published: 27 May 2007
Article from The Independent
A new health scare erupted over soft drinks last night amid evidence they may cause serious cell damage. Research from a British university suggests a common preservative found in drinks such as Fanta and Pepsi Max has the ability to switch off vital parts of DNA.
The problem - more usually associated with ageing and alcohol abuse - can eventually lead to cirrhosis of the liver and degenerative diseases such as Parkinson's.
The findings could have serious consequences for the hundreds of millions of people worldwide who consume fizzy drinks. They will also intensify the controversy about food additives, which have been linked to hyperactivity in children.
Concerns centre on the safety of E211, known as sodium benzoate, a preservative used for decades by the £74bn global carbonated drinks industry. Sodium benzoate derives from benzoic acid. It occurs naturally in berries, but is used in large quantities to prevent mould in soft drinks such as Sprite, Oasis and Dr Pepper. It is also added to pickles and sauces.
Sodium benzoate has already been the subject of concern about cancer because when mixed with the additive vitamin C in soft drinks, it causes benzene, a carcinogenic substance. A Food Standards Agency survey of benzene in drinks last year found high levels in four brands which were removed from sale.
Now, an expert in ageing at Sheffield University, who has been working on sodium benzoate since publishing a research paper in 1999, has decided to speak out about another danger. Professor Peter Piper, a professor of molecular biology and biotechnology, tested the impact of sodium benzoate on living yeast cells in his laboratory. What he found alarmed him: the benzoate was damaging an important area of DNA in the "power station" of cells known as the mitochondria.
He told The Independent on Sunday: "These chemicals have the ability to cause severe damage to DNA in the mitochondria to the point that they totally inactivate it: they knock it out altogether.
"The mitochondria consumes the oxygen to give you energy and if you damage it - as happens in a number if diseased states - then the cell starts to malfunction very seriously. And there is a whole array of diseases that are now being tied to damage to this DNA - Parkinson's and quite a lot of neuro-degenerative diseases, but above all the whole process of ageing."
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) backs the use of sodium benzoate in the UK and it has been approved by the European Union but last night, MPs called for it to investigate urgently.
Norman Baker, the Liberal Democrat chair of Parliament's all-party environment group said: "Many additives are relatively new and their long-term impact cannot be certain. This preservative clearly needs to be investigated further by the FSA."
A review of sodium benzoate by the World Health Organisation in 2000 concluded that it was safe, but it noted that the available science supporting its safety was "limited".
Professor Piper, whose work has been funded by a government research council, said tests conducted by the US Food and Drug Administration were out of date.
"The food industry will say these compounds have been tested and they are complete safe," he said. "By the criteria of modern safety testing, the safety tests were inadequate. Like all things, safety testing moves forward and you can conduct a much more rigorous safety test than you could 50 years ago."
He advised parents to think carefully about buying drinks with preservatives until the quantities in products were proved safe by new tests. "My concern is for children who are drinking large amounts," he said.
Coca-Cola and Britvic's Pepsi Max and Diet Pepsi all contain sodium benzoate. Their makers and the British Soft Drinks Association said they entrusted the safety of additives to the Government.
Time for me to grab even more NUTRILITE Active 8 and Acerola Cherry... Read it and arm yourself with knowledge.
Caution: Some soft drinks may seriously harm your health
Expert links additive to cell damage
By Martin Hickman, Consumer Affairs Correspondent
Published: 27 May 2007
Article from The Independent
A new health scare erupted over soft drinks last night amid evidence they may cause serious cell damage. Research from a British university suggests a common preservative found in drinks such as Fanta and Pepsi Max has the ability to switch off vital parts of DNA.
The problem - more usually associated with ageing and alcohol abuse - can eventually lead to cirrhosis of the liver and degenerative diseases such as Parkinson's.
The findings could have serious consequences for the hundreds of millions of people worldwide who consume fizzy drinks. They will also intensify the controversy about food additives, which have been linked to hyperactivity in children.
Concerns centre on the safety of E211, known as sodium benzoate, a preservative used for decades by the £74bn global carbonated drinks industry. Sodium benzoate derives from benzoic acid. It occurs naturally in berries, but is used in large quantities to prevent mould in soft drinks such as Sprite, Oasis and Dr Pepper. It is also added to pickles and sauces.
Sodium benzoate has already been the subject of concern about cancer because when mixed with the additive vitamin C in soft drinks, it causes benzene, a carcinogenic substance. A Food Standards Agency survey of benzene in drinks last year found high levels in four brands which were removed from sale.
Now, an expert in ageing at Sheffield University, who has been working on sodium benzoate since publishing a research paper in 1999, has decided to speak out about another danger. Professor Peter Piper, a professor of molecular biology and biotechnology, tested the impact of sodium benzoate on living yeast cells in his laboratory. What he found alarmed him: the benzoate was damaging an important area of DNA in the "power station" of cells known as the mitochondria.
He told The Independent on Sunday: "These chemicals have the ability to cause severe damage to DNA in the mitochondria to the point that they totally inactivate it: they knock it out altogether.
"The mitochondria consumes the oxygen to give you energy and if you damage it - as happens in a number if diseased states - then the cell starts to malfunction very seriously. And there is a whole array of diseases that are now being tied to damage to this DNA - Parkinson's and quite a lot of neuro-degenerative diseases, but above all the whole process of ageing."
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) backs the use of sodium benzoate in the UK and it has been approved by the European Union but last night, MPs called for it to investigate urgently.
Norman Baker, the Liberal Democrat chair of Parliament's all-party environment group said: "Many additives are relatively new and their long-term impact cannot be certain. This preservative clearly needs to be investigated further by the FSA."
A review of sodium benzoate by the World Health Organisation in 2000 concluded that it was safe, but it noted that the available science supporting its safety was "limited".
Professor Piper, whose work has been funded by a government research council, said tests conducted by the US Food and Drug Administration were out of date.
"The food industry will say these compounds have been tested and they are complete safe," he said. "By the criteria of modern safety testing, the safety tests were inadequate. Like all things, safety testing moves forward and you can conduct a much more rigorous safety test than you could 50 years ago."
He advised parents to think carefully about buying drinks with preservatives until the quantities in products were proved safe by new tests. "My concern is for children who are drinking large amounts," he said.
Coca-Cola and Britvic's Pepsi Max and Diet Pepsi all contain sodium benzoate. Their makers and the British Soft Drinks Association said they entrusted the safety of additives to the Government.
Saturday, June 09, 2007
He that has ears, let him hear...
Today, while learning how to increase the MP3 volume when converting the format to AAC or M4A, I came across this interesting and helpful article on hearing loss, with a recommended solution for its prevention - simply by using better quality earphones which shuts out the surrounding noise!
While it looks like this has nothing to do with the network marketing business, it actually has everything to do with it, especially professional networkers like myself who depends on and listens to Network21 CDs all day long while on the move... I have at least 50 CDs (many of them packs of CDs, such as Depth Charger Pack and HealthPointe 2.0) on my Nokia Mini-SD card! Therefore, I am naturally concerned about ear damage.
Thus, my conclusion is that the article has everything to do with prolonging my ability to enjoy the CDs and it is A GOOD THING™.
Article Taken From: HealthyHearing.com
Avoiding mp3 Ear - Facts & Simple Hearing Health Tips For All Generations
Craig A. Kasper, Au.D., FAAA
5/29/2006
Introduction
In recent months the media has focused its attention like a laser on the subject of portable mp3 players, careless listening habits and the potential for premature hearing loss. The core concern of the current news reports is not a new one. If you look back over two decades ago, similar stories blanketed the headlines with the release of the popular Walkman.
Despite the worldwide media attention, few news pieces firmly place the burden of responsibility on the individual by offering simple preventative measures consumers should take to protect their hearing. Lawsuits have surfaced, and many are questioning if it is the manufacturers who should be responsible for educating and protecting the end-user. Is all the hype warranted and is there really need for concern? If so, what should the average music enthusiast do to prevent the possibility of “mp3 ear”?
Just the facts, please!
FACT #1: Most people will experience age-related hearing loss gradually over time. We live in a world where numerous hazards to the health of our hearing exist and everyone gradually loses some hearing as we navigate through life. Genetics, illnesses, viruses and some pharmaceutical products dictate how rapidly our hearing declines. Additionally, our general level of health plays a significant role. Unfortunately, we have little control over most of these variables that pose a threat to our hearing.
FACT #2: Music-induced hearing loss is directly related to the level at which you listen and the duration of time you are exposed to the music. One cause of premature hearing loss that we do have significant control over is the amount of noise and/or music we allow ourselves to be exposed to. Whether your preference is Bach or Beck, we all want to enjoy our favorite tunes without the fear of causing harm to our hearing. Of utmost importance is that you are mindful of the levels at which you listen to your mp3 player as well as the amount of time you have the earphones attached to your ears.
Noise in industrial settings is a well-known occupational hazard. As a result, employers are mandated to ensure the safety of workers who might be exposed to damaging levels of sound. Two government-based organizations have established “safe listening levels” for industrial employees. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) www.osha.gov/SLTC/noisehearingconservation/ and NIOSH (National Institute on Occupational Safety and Health) www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/noise/ have developed widely accepted standards that have been put in place to protect workers from permanent hearing damage.
Currently, there is some question by experts regarding the direct applicability of industrial noise standards for music exposure. Regardless, the OSHA and NIOSH standards serve as a good reference for consumers looking for some basis and a guideline to preserve their hearing.
The chart below demonstrates what each organization has defined as a safe listening level in relation to the amount of time the individual is exposed. For example, if you were exposed to a relatively constant noise level of 85 decibels, you would be “safe” for 8 hours according to both standards. If we refer to the more conservative NIOSH standard, every 3 decibel increase in sound intensity would decrease your “safe” time in half. Therefore, exposure to continuous sounds of 88 decibels leaves you “safe” for 4 hours, 91 decibels for 2 hours, and so on (See Table 1).
Table 1. Amount of “Safe Time” at various levels based on OSHA and NIOSH standards.
FACT #3: It’s not only the iPod! All portable mp3 players have the potential to cause music-induced hearing loss (let’s not only pick on the folks at Apple!). The word “potential” is used here because, as far as I am aware, there are no studies to date expressing a more definitive statement. This is likely due to the fact that the technology has not been around long enough for hearing healthcare professionals to see an actual trend of increased hearing loss among users. Despite this fact, as was the case with portable media devices in the past, the potential does exist and this has been demonstrated through at least one formal investigation carried out earlier this year.
The American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) www.asha.org/turndownthevolume/tech-damage.htm investigated numerous portable media devices from various manufacturers and measured output with a sound level meter. The table below summarizes the decibel range measured as it relates to the volume settings on the devices studied.
Table 2. Output levels for various volume settings for various portable media players as measured by ASHA.
FACT #4: You can listen without causing permanent hearing loss. If we utilize NIOSH standards and compare the average output of the devices as studied by ASHA, we have the ability to paint some broad brushstrokes:
Figure 1. “Safe Time” based on volume setting data from ASHA and NIOSH standards.
It is important to note that we are at the very beginning of understanding what portable mp3 players are capable of and there exists many variables to consider. Other formal research studies are currently underway that should provide more clarity with respect to volume output from these devices. Keep in mind that all portable media devices are not the same, and you should work with your audiologist to establish safe listening levels for your particular mp3 player.
What about those little white earbuds?
Besides monitoring the volume on your device and the length of time you listen, what else could you do to help preserve your hearing? The next step is to consider better fitting earphones that have sound isolating capabilities.
The little white earbuds have become a brand unto themselves, but when it comes to hearing preservation they are not the best option. In most cases, the physical fit is poor and isolation from environmental sounds is essentially non-existent. Both lead the user to turn the volume way up to compensate for poor fidelity. Considering hearing loss resulting from noise or music is directly associated with the level and duration of time you listen, increasing the volume would warrant a reduction in your listening time. The reality is that most listeners do not find cutting down on their listening time a preferable solution. Therefore, achieving decreased preferred listening levels is the goal.
Better quality headphones available from companies such as Shure www.shurestore.com, Etymotic Research www.etymotic.com and other manufacturers offer improved sound quality and also increase the user’s isolation from the roar of the world. In turn, the listener has the ability to achieve a most-comfortable listening level at lower volume settings in all listening environments. To take this one step further, many users are now being fit with custom molds to slip over their new headphones. This option offers superior fit and comfort as well as significant isolation from ambient noises (sometimes up to 26 decibels).
Real World Example
My office is based in a large metropolitan city. All of my patients who are mp3 enthusiasts must compete with the buzz of subways, midtown traffic, gyms and crowded streets. As a result, most have their mp3 players set to at least 3/4 of full-on volume. Occasionally, I’ll see folks with the entire volume bar lit up!
After they purchase different headphones and are fit with custom sleeves, their most-comfortable listening level usually drops to around 1/4 of full-on volume. By making one simple and relatively inexpensive change, they have achieved a significant decrease from their original settings. Most important, many patients also report they are not tempted to increase the volume in less-than-ideal listening environments as they are able to enjoy acceptable sound quality at the new, softer listening levels.
One Final Note On Headphones
All headphones, including sound-isolating headphones, can potentially add to your chances of sustaining music-induced hearing loss if used inappropriately. For this reason, it is imperative that you discuss and establish safe listening levels with your audiologist.
Take responsibility now!
Hearing loss from excessive noise or music exposure is preventable and you are fully responsible for the outcome. The burden is on each and every individual to control listening levels and the amount of time mp3 players are used. Education forms the foundation, but there are other steps that should be followed to save hearing and prevent related issues such as tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Until a more definitive picture emerges from the research that is currently underway, consider the simple HEAR formula below. Being mindful of your hearing and taking action today just might help you add years to your ears!
Follow The HEAR Formula To Add Years To Your Ears.
Have your hearing tested by an audiologist annually, or sooner if you notice a problem.
Educate yourself about the hearing mechanism and the numerous threats to the health of your hearing.
Arm yourself with custom sound-isolating headphones for your portable mp3 player and earplugs for use when you attend concerts.
Reduce your exposure levels and the amount of time you’re exposed to music and/or noise.
Craig A. Kasper, Au.D., FAAA is the Director of Audiology for the New York Otolaryngology Group in New York City. He is the author of the recently published book “The Simple Guide To Optimum Hearing Health For The mp3 Generation”. Information about “The Simple Guide…” can be found on his website
www.DrCraigKasper.com. Dr. Kasper can be contacted via email at Craig@DrCraigKasper.com.
While it looks like this has nothing to do with the network marketing business, it actually has everything to do with it, especially professional networkers like myself who depends on and listens to Network21 CDs all day long while on the move... I have at least 50 CDs (many of them packs of CDs, such as Depth Charger Pack and HealthPointe 2.0) on my Nokia Mini-SD card! Therefore, I am naturally concerned about ear damage.
Thus, my conclusion is that the article has everything to do with prolonging my ability to enjoy the CDs and it is A GOOD THING™.
Article Taken From: HealthyHearing.com
Avoiding mp3 Ear - Facts & Simple Hearing Health Tips For All Generations
Craig A. Kasper, Au.D., FAAA
5/29/2006
Introduction
In recent months the media has focused its attention like a laser on the subject of portable mp3 players, careless listening habits and the potential for premature hearing loss. The core concern of the current news reports is not a new one. If you look back over two decades ago, similar stories blanketed the headlines with the release of the popular Walkman.
Despite the worldwide media attention, few news pieces firmly place the burden of responsibility on the individual by offering simple preventative measures consumers should take to protect their hearing. Lawsuits have surfaced, and many are questioning if it is the manufacturers who should be responsible for educating and protecting the end-user. Is all the hype warranted and is there really need for concern? If so, what should the average music enthusiast do to prevent the possibility of “mp3 ear”?
Just the facts, please!
FACT #1: Most people will experience age-related hearing loss gradually over time. We live in a world where numerous hazards to the health of our hearing exist and everyone gradually loses some hearing as we navigate through life. Genetics, illnesses, viruses and some pharmaceutical products dictate how rapidly our hearing declines. Additionally, our general level of health plays a significant role. Unfortunately, we have little control over most of these variables that pose a threat to our hearing.
FACT #2: Music-induced hearing loss is directly related to the level at which you listen and the duration of time you are exposed to the music. One cause of premature hearing loss that we do have significant control over is the amount of noise and/or music we allow ourselves to be exposed to. Whether your preference is Bach or Beck, we all want to enjoy our favorite tunes without the fear of causing harm to our hearing. Of utmost importance is that you are mindful of the levels at which you listen to your mp3 player as well as the amount of time you have the earphones attached to your ears.
Noise in industrial settings is a well-known occupational hazard. As a result, employers are mandated to ensure the safety of workers who might be exposed to damaging levels of sound. Two government-based organizations have established “safe listening levels” for industrial employees. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) www.osha.gov/SLTC/noisehearingconservation/ and NIOSH (National Institute on Occupational Safety and Health) www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/noise/ have developed widely accepted standards that have been put in place to protect workers from permanent hearing damage.
Currently, there is some question by experts regarding the direct applicability of industrial noise standards for music exposure. Regardless, the OSHA and NIOSH standards serve as a good reference for consumers looking for some basis and a guideline to preserve their hearing.
The chart below demonstrates what each organization has defined as a safe listening level in relation to the amount of time the individual is exposed. For example, if you were exposed to a relatively constant noise level of 85 decibels, you would be “safe” for 8 hours according to both standards. If we refer to the more conservative NIOSH standard, every 3 decibel increase in sound intensity would decrease your “safe” time in half. Therefore, exposure to continuous sounds of 88 decibels leaves you “safe” for 4 hours, 91 decibels for 2 hours, and so on (See Table 1).
Table 1. Amount of “Safe Time” at various levels based on OSHA and NIOSH standards.
FACT #3: It’s not only the iPod! All portable mp3 players have the potential to cause music-induced hearing loss (let’s not only pick on the folks at Apple!). The word “potential” is used here because, as far as I am aware, there are no studies to date expressing a more definitive statement. This is likely due to the fact that the technology has not been around long enough for hearing healthcare professionals to see an actual trend of increased hearing loss among users. Despite this fact, as was the case with portable media devices in the past, the potential does exist and this has been demonstrated through at least one formal investigation carried out earlier this year.
The American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA) www.asha.org/turndownthevolume/tech-damage.htm investigated numerous portable media devices from various manufacturers and measured output with a sound level meter. The table below summarizes the decibel range measured as it relates to the volume settings on the devices studied.
Table 2. Output levels for various volume settings for various portable media players as measured by ASHA.
FACT #4: You can listen without causing permanent hearing loss. If we utilize NIOSH standards and compare the average output of the devices as studied by ASHA, we have the ability to paint some broad brushstrokes:
- listening at 1/4 of the total volume, you’re potentially safe for approximately 1 hour with some of the devices studied,
- listening at 1/2 of the total volume, you’re potentially safe for <4 minutes with some of the devices,
- at 3/4 of the total volume, you’re potentially safe for <1 minute with some of the devices, and
- no one should use any of these devices at full-on volume as the risk for permanent hearing damage is significant in very little time.
Figure 1. “Safe Time” based on volume setting data from ASHA and NIOSH standards.
It is important to note that we are at the very beginning of understanding what portable mp3 players are capable of and there exists many variables to consider. Other formal research studies are currently underway that should provide more clarity with respect to volume output from these devices. Keep in mind that all portable media devices are not the same, and you should work with your audiologist to establish safe listening levels for your particular mp3 player.
What about those little white earbuds?
Besides monitoring the volume on your device and the length of time you listen, what else could you do to help preserve your hearing? The next step is to consider better fitting earphones that have sound isolating capabilities.
The little white earbuds have become a brand unto themselves, but when it comes to hearing preservation they are not the best option. In most cases, the physical fit is poor and isolation from environmental sounds is essentially non-existent. Both lead the user to turn the volume way up to compensate for poor fidelity. Considering hearing loss resulting from noise or music is directly associated with the level and duration of time you listen, increasing the volume would warrant a reduction in your listening time. The reality is that most listeners do not find cutting down on their listening time a preferable solution. Therefore, achieving decreased preferred listening levels is the goal.
Better quality headphones available from companies such as Shure www.shurestore.com, Etymotic Research www.etymotic.com and other manufacturers offer improved sound quality and also increase the user’s isolation from the roar of the world. In turn, the listener has the ability to achieve a most-comfortable listening level at lower volume settings in all listening environments. To take this one step further, many users are now being fit with custom molds to slip over their new headphones. This option offers superior fit and comfort as well as significant isolation from ambient noises (sometimes up to 26 decibels).
Real World Example
My office is based in a large metropolitan city. All of my patients who are mp3 enthusiasts must compete with the buzz of subways, midtown traffic, gyms and crowded streets. As a result, most have their mp3 players set to at least 3/4 of full-on volume. Occasionally, I’ll see folks with the entire volume bar lit up!
After they purchase different headphones and are fit with custom sleeves, their most-comfortable listening level usually drops to around 1/4 of full-on volume. By making one simple and relatively inexpensive change, they have achieved a significant decrease from their original settings. Most important, many patients also report they are not tempted to increase the volume in less-than-ideal listening environments as they are able to enjoy acceptable sound quality at the new, softer listening levels.
One Final Note On Headphones
All headphones, including sound-isolating headphones, can potentially add to your chances of sustaining music-induced hearing loss if used inappropriately. For this reason, it is imperative that you discuss and establish safe listening levels with your audiologist.
Take responsibility now!
Hearing loss from excessive noise or music exposure is preventable and you are fully responsible for the outcome. The burden is on each and every individual to control listening levels and the amount of time mp3 players are used. Education forms the foundation, but there are other steps that should be followed to save hearing and prevent related issues such as tinnitus (ringing in the ears). Until a more definitive picture emerges from the research that is currently underway, consider the simple HEAR formula below. Being mindful of your hearing and taking action today just might help you add years to your ears!
Follow The HEAR Formula To Add Years To Your Ears.
Have your hearing tested by an audiologist annually, or sooner if you notice a problem.
Educate yourself about the hearing mechanism and the numerous threats to the health of your hearing.
Arm yourself with custom sound-isolating headphones for your portable mp3 player and earplugs for use when you attend concerts.
Reduce your exposure levels and the amount of time you’re exposed to music and/or noise.
Craig A. Kasper, Au.D., FAAA is the Director of Audiology for the New York Otolaryngology Group in New York City. He is the author of the recently published book “The Simple Guide To Optimum Hearing Health For The mp3 Generation”. Information about “The Simple Guide…” can be found on his website
www.DrCraigKasper.com. Dr. Kasper can be contacted via email at Craig@DrCraigKasper.com.
Thursday, June 07, 2007
The same questions again...
Repetitive questions most candidates ask and how I would answer them:
Q) Will I have to sell?
You will surely develop a group of clients among those who say no to the business opportunity. So you will sell to these people, because they asked for it. (no pun intended)
Q) Isn't making money off my friends immmoral/unethical/improper?
You will make money as you help your friends make money. You earn a 4% Leadership Bonus for every person you assist to reach the 21%/25% bracket.
Q) It's too hard, I can't do it.
Follow the system and let the tools do their job.
Q) I only buy things on sale/based on price/from a big-box store.
You receive PV when you buy from your own store. It is your own business.
Q) I don't have the money.
Which is precisely why you should start building NOW.
Q) I don't have the time.
Which is, again, precisely why you should start building NOW. In addition, the functions, CDs and Books will do the training for you in your absence.
Q) I don't know enough people.
Make new friends.
Q) Is this a pyramid?
No.
Q) No, I mean is this an illegal pyramid?
No.
Q) Will I have to sell?
You will surely develop a group of clients among those who say no to the business opportunity. So you will sell to these people, because they asked for it. (no pun intended)
Q) Isn't making money off my friends immmoral/unethical/improper?
You will make money as you help your friends make money. You earn a 4% Leadership Bonus for every person you assist to reach the 21%/25% bracket.
Q) It's too hard, I can't do it.
Follow the system and let the tools do their job.
Q) I only buy things on sale/based on price/from a big-box store.
You receive PV when you buy from your own store. It is your own business.
Q) I don't have the money.
Which is precisely why you should start building NOW.
Q) I don't have the time.
Which is, again, precisely why you should start building NOW. In addition, the functions, CDs and Books will do the training for you in your absence.
Q) I don't know enough people.
Make new friends.
Q) Is this a pyramid?
No.
Q) No, I mean is this an illegal pyramid?
No.
Is it in the water?
I have a tiger barb fish that has lived as long as I can remember, in the dirtiest of water in an isolated tank in my backyard.
Yesterday morning, I simply placed him in a pail of TAP WATER (without using the "Anti-Chlorine" solution) and in less than 20 minutes, he was gasping for air, and finally, DIED.
Whatever is in the "Newater" in Singapore?!
In a separate incident, I noticed that Nike the dog probably has a cleaner oral orifice and intestinal system than us humans... I was washing the dishes, the water was channeled out out of my house via a mini drain below my sink and he was slurping away at the water laden with Amway DISH DROPS!! (in case you do not know, Dish Drops is derived from coconut, aloe and contains Alpha Hydroxy Acids, which exfoliates the hands. The product, when diluted, can be used to clean up the pesticides from fruits and vegetables, and is extremely environmentally friendly.)
Yesterday morning, I simply placed him in a pail of TAP WATER (without using the "Anti-Chlorine" solution) and in less than 20 minutes, he was gasping for air, and finally, DIED.
Whatever is in the "Newater" in Singapore?!
In a separate incident, I noticed that Nike the dog probably has a cleaner oral orifice and intestinal system than us humans... I was washing the dishes, the water was channeled out out of my house via a mini drain below my sink and he was slurping away at the water laden with Amway DISH DROPS!! (in case you do not know, Dish Drops is derived from coconut, aloe and contains Alpha Hydroxy Acids, which exfoliates the hands. The product, when diluted, can be used to clean up the pesticides from fruits and vegetables, and is extremely environmentally friendly.)
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Sell N21 or Amway?
Some people are advocating that N21 should:
1. Tell the whole world how much the company is making on the sale of tools;
2. Lower (or even scrap) the cost of BSMs;
3. Build an Amway business, rather than focusing on selling tools to IBOs;
4. Be more "transparent"; and
5. N21 speakers should state that their lifestyle is "not" paid for by Amway money, but by profits earned from N21 material sales.
I would like to respond briefly that:
1. Really, unless N21 is a public-listed company, there is absolutely NO REASON why they should declare any figures. Can we respect that?
2. Like #1, why should N21 "lower" their cost of their products anywhere? That should be dictated by the marketplace. If it is too overpriced, the purchasers will know, and N21 will be forced to lower it when there are low sales. If a tool is really good, the cost of it might even be INCREASED for the value it brings to the buyers.
3. Why should N21 stop focusing on selling their tools to IBOs and making itself profitable? Selling tools IS their primary business, and IBOs are fully benefiting from their creations. Asking N21 to sell the Amway business more than its tools is like asking Robert Kiyosaki to speak more about Amway during his seminars for IBOs instead of his own books and CDs.
4. How much more transparent can you get? N21 speakers have again and again emphasised that the tools are entirely optional and that they do not promise you anything.
5. N21 speakers that I have been listening to state that the lifestyle they are living is a result of going Diamond WITH N21, and the lifestyle is more focused on the FREEDOM of time and movement they enjoy, rather than jet planes and resorts. (this is perhaps unique to N21, I do not speak for other systems.) Becoming Diamond should be the one and only focus of any IBO. Moreover, is it not ridiculous to imply that the Amway money at the Diamond level cannot pay for the lifestyle of the person on stage, or at least part of it?
More importantly, people have even mentioned that of course N21 has to make some money somewhere because they are a COMPANY. That is, there is staff to pay, operational costs involved, future items to create, new offices to start and fund - all of which costs money.
Any business-minded person will know that if you want to purchase any tools for any business (not just in the Amway business), you have to pay. Any professional will know that nothing is free, and that the cost of buying tools may or may not result in results, since results really boils down to whether you are just a CD hearer, or action-taker.
1. Tell the whole world how much the company is making on the sale of tools;
2. Lower (or even scrap) the cost of BSMs;
3. Build an Amway business, rather than focusing on selling tools to IBOs;
4. Be more "transparent"; and
5. N21 speakers should state that their lifestyle is "not" paid for by Amway money, but by profits earned from N21 material sales.
I would like to respond briefly that:
1. Really, unless N21 is a public-listed company, there is absolutely NO REASON why they should declare any figures. Can we respect that?
2. Like #1, why should N21 "lower" their cost of their products anywhere? That should be dictated by the marketplace. If it is too overpriced, the purchasers will know, and N21 will be forced to lower it when there are low sales. If a tool is really good, the cost of it might even be INCREASED for the value it brings to the buyers.
3. Why should N21 stop focusing on selling their tools to IBOs and making itself profitable? Selling tools IS their primary business, and IBOs are fully benefiting from their creations. Asking N21 to sell the Amway business more than its tools is like asking Robert Kiyosaki to speak more about Amway during his seminars for IBOs instead of his own books and CDs.
4. How much more transparent can you get? N21 speakers have again and again emphasised that the tools are entirely optional and that they do not promise you anything.
5. N21 speakers that I have been listening to state that the lifestyle they are living is a result of going Diamond WITH N21, and the lifestyle is more focused on the FREEDOM of time and movement they enjoy, rather than jet planes and resorts. (this is perhaps unique to N21, I do not speak for other systems.) Becoming Diamond should be the one and only focus of any IBO. Moreover, is it not ridiculous to imply that the Amway money at the Diamond level cannot pay for the lifestyle of the person on stage, or at least part of it?
More importantly, people have even mentioned that of course N21 has to make some money somewhere because they are a COMPANY. That is, there is staff to pay, operational costs involved, future items to create, new offices to start and fund - all of which costs money.
Any business-minded person will know that if you want to purchase any tools for any business (not just in the Amway business), you have to pay. Any professional will know that nothing is free, and that the cost of buying tools may or may not result in results, since results really boils down to whether you are just a CD hearer, or action-taker.
Saturday, June 02, 2007
Juices or Crystals?
Wow, a few posts in one go... but anyway, here is a question for you to ponder on, if you are evaluating the advantages of NUTRILITE versus some MLM fruit juice supplement (let's call it MLM Juice)...
First of all, since MLM Juice is liquid, ASK, "Does it contain preservatives and/or stabilisers? If not, how does the product keep itself from turning rancid?
If so, are the preservatives good for consumption - both long term and in large quantities? (since many MLM Juice promoters advocate drinking up one bottle A WEEK)
Secondly, ASK, "Is the usual US$45-55 for a bottle of MLM Juice seriously too expensive? Not to mention the cost of shipping liquid (and glass bottling, perhaps?) to a far-away country, which are borne by the Distributors..."
Now, for the sake of reference, Nutrilite Active 8 Beverage Crystals is a blend of 5 fruits (namely Acerola Cherry, Guava, Cashew Fruit, Pineapple and Passion Fruit) and comes as 4 dry powder packs in my market.
It costs a MERE S$21.80 at RETAIL, and at the recommended dosage, you can take 22 servings. Now, that works out to LESS THAN A SINGAPORE DOLLAR per sip.
ASK, "How would MLM Juice be more value-for-money than the 5-fruit Active 8 then?"
I hope you are now armed with 3 good questions to deflect away all the marketing hype surrounding MLM Juice(s)... Nutrilite is good!
First of all, since MLM Juice is liquid, ASK, "Does it contain preservatives and/or stabilisers? If not, how does the product keep itself from turning rancid?
If so, are the preservatives good for consumption - both long term and in large quantities? (since many MLM Juice promoters advocate drinking up one bottle A WEEK)
Secondly, ASK, "Is the usual US$45-55 for a bottle of MLM Juice seriously too expensive? Not to mention the cost of shipping liquid (and glass bottling, perhaps?) to a far-away country, which are borne by the Distributors..."
Now, for the sake of reference, Nutrilite Active 8 Beverage Crystals is a blend of 5 fruits (namely Acerola Cherry, Guava, Cashew Fruit, Pineapple and Passion Fruit) and comes as 4 dry powder packs in my market.
It costs a MERE S$21.80 at RETAIL, and at the recommended dosage, you can take 22 servings. Now, that works out to LESS THAN A SINGAPORE DOLLAR per sip.
ASK, "How would MLM Juice be more value-for-money than the 5-fruit Active 8 then?"
I hope you are now armed with 3 good questions to deflect away all the marketing hype surrounding MLM Juice(s)... Nutrilite is good!
Never, Ever Assume!
Today, on Amway Media Blog, I saw 2 interesting comments... especially the one which was an allegation by "Mentor" that N21 etc. is just like his former system, calling people who are not on the system "losers, quitters etc." NONE of the N21 CDs I have in my library called anybody any derogatory names. Here is my response to them:
Mentor: Please, NEVER, ever assume. Listen to N21 and BWW first, then make a statement about them. I have a mini-box of N21 CDs by now, and I have NOT heard a single speaker calling names on those who are not on the N21 system.
Indeed, what I hear again and again is, "We don't guarantee you anything, but if you take this thing (N21) and run, you might (get these results)", "It is OK, it is your choice" etc.
As an example, in the "ARE WE LOOKING FOR YOU" or "WHAT'S UNIQUE ABOUT US?" CDs, Jim Dornan actually said, "In fact, we are so passionate about HELPING PEOPLE, that we are not even bothered if you take what you learnt here and apply it to another opportunity. But if you have not found the right vehicle of your choice, I invite you to come learn more about us." (paraphrased)
In what way is N21 labeling people not on the system as "losers, quitters, never-make-its"?
My point is, do not lump every system together, just because they are all training programs.
Grafter: That is exactly like what I told my traditional Amway friends who are wondering why I am plunging myself into a System, knowing full well that, if the critics are right, I am going to "spend, spend, spend" on tools and functions, even at the EMERALD level.
Answer? At least you get to make it to Emerald. ; )
Mentor: Please, NEVER, ever assume. Listen to N21 and BWW first, then make a statement about them. I have a mini-box of N21 CDs by now, and I have NOT heard a single speaker calling names on those who are not on the N21 system.
Indeed, what I hear again and again is, "We don't guarantee you anything, but if you take this thing (N21) and run, you might (get these results)", "It is OK, it is your choice" etc.
As an example, in the "ARE WE LOOKING FOR YOU" or "WHAT'S UNIQUE ABOUT US?" CDs, Jim Dornan actually said, "In fact, we are so passionate about HELPING PEOPLE, that we are not even bothered if you take what you learnt here and apply it to another opportunity. But if you have not found the right vehicle of your choice, I invite you to come learn more about us." (paraphrased)
In what way is N21 labeling people not on the system as "losers, quitters, never-make-its"?
My point is, do not lump every system together, just because they are all training programs.
Grafter: That is exactly like what I told my traditional Amway friends who are wondering why I am plunging myself into a System, knowing full well that, if the critics are right, I am going to "spend, spend, spend" on tools and functions, even at the EMERALD level.
Answer? At least you get to make it to Emerald. ; )
Friday, June 01, 2007
Amway, Please Stick To Your Role.
Everyday, as I head over to IBOFightBack's and the official corporate blogs, I get more appalled by the individuals who are asking for all systems to be suspended, and Amway to administer all training and materials. Some even suggest that Amway should place PV/BV on business support materials.
This is WRONG!
Amway Corporation is a manufacturer and should remain focused on PRODUCT training and events, rather than IBO training and network building.
If Amway becomes the trainer, then you will have a few scenarios taking place, all of which are NOT ideal, and definitely not my cup of tea as an aspiring Diamond-to-be, namely:
1. We may have STAFF who are non-networkers teaching us techniques and methods which they learn from the BOOKS. The only people we would optimally benefit from should be existing leaders who have "been there, done that";
2. We may have invited SPEAKERS who may advocate different ideas from yours. A good example would be a N21 speaker expounding on the benefits of Team21 to a group of BWW "6-4-2" IBOs. The poor chaps would be confused; (now you know why there is a No Crosslining rule!)
3. We may also have invited SPEAKERS who simply share superficial information such as "Never give up" and other nice cliches, but never going into specifics, for fear of stumbling IBOs from a different LOS or are unwilling to reveal their "secret" recipes for success (listen to all the motivational CDs in my market and you will realise that most of them, if not all, are just "tidbits" of inspiration and know-hows, nothing substantial); and
4. We would, in all likelihood, be bombarded with product selling techniques and everything that turns you and I into Amway salesmen. Gone will be the days when we were Business Owners building a duplicatable organisation.
In my humble opinion, if Amway tries to take over the IBO business building training, we will essentially go back to pre-Yager days, where everything was "sponsor as many as you can", "get them onto the products" and "hope for the best". No strategy, no ongoing morale building, no teambuilding efforts.
Obviously there are quite a few more reasons why I am disgusted (pardon the strong language) with Amway staff even thinking that they know how to build the business, but the above four points should be enough to show views from the IBO perspective.
IBOs who wish to do nothing but become Amway salespeople should be allowed the freedom to do so, but without interfering and meddling with the ricebowl of the rest of us who live and swear by the System.
If you are an anti-System IBO, would you like to be "forced" into a System, where you have to "spend" all your unwilling dollars on what you foresee as "useless, repetitive" materials and functions? If not, why force sincere IBOs like myself who NEED the Systems?
I LOVE AMWAY, believe that this is THE BEST business partner I can find in network marketing and so my words are NOT meant to lower the company, but please, people, keep the lines clear.
Let Amway be Amway (Manufacturing Excellence) and let the Systems be the Systems. (IBO Training Excellence)
In summary, I am absolutely AGAINST the idea of Amway/Quixtar substituting itself for all the great systems we have today, such as Network TwentyOne, Britt World Wide, Internet Services, World Wide DreamBuilders etc.
This is WRONG!
Amway Corporation is a manufacturer and should remain focused on PRODUCT training and events, rather than IBO training and network building.
If Amway becomes the trainer, then you will have a few scenarios taking place, all of which are NOT ideal, and definitely not my cup of tea as an aspiring Diamond-to-be, namely:
1. We may have STAFF who are non-networkers teaching us techniques and methods which they learn from the BOOKS. The only people we would optimally benefit from should be existing leaders who have "been there, done that";
2. We may have invited SPEAKERS who may advocate different ideas from yours. A good example would be a N21 speaker expounding on the benefits of Team21 to a group of BWW "6-4-2" IBOs. The poor chaps would be confused; (now you know why there is a No Crosslining rule!)
3. We may also have invited SPEAKERS who simply share superficial information such as "Never give up" and other nice cliches, but never going into specifics, for fear of stumbling IBOs from a different LOS or are unwilling to reveal their "secret" recipes for success (listen to all the motivational CDs in my market and you will realise that most of them, if not all, are just "tidbits" of inspiration and know-hows, nothing substantial); and
4. We would, in all likelihood, be bombarded with product selling techniques and everything that turns you and I into Amway salesmen. Gone will be the days when we were Business Owners building a duplicatable organisation.
In my humble opinion, if Amway tries to take over the IBO business building training, we will essentially go back to pre-Yager days, where everything was "sponsor as many as you can", "get them onto the products" and "hope for the best". No strategy, no ongoing morale building, no teambuilding efforts.
Obviously there are quite a few more reasons why I am disgusted (pardon the strong language) with Amway staff even thinking that they know how to build the business, but the above four points should be enough to show views from the IBO perspective.
IBOs who wish to do nothing but become Amway salespeople should be allowed the freedom to do so, but without interfering and meddling with the ricebowl of the rest of us who live and swear by the System.
If you are an anti-System IBO, would you like to be "forced" into a System, where you have to "spend" all your unwilling dollars on what you foresee as "useless, repetitive" materials and functions? If not, why force sincere IBOs like myself who NEED the Systems?
I LOVE AMWAY, believe that this is THE BEST business partner I can find in network marketing and so my words are NOT meant to lower the company, but please, people, keep the lines clear.
Let Amway be Amway (Manufacturing Excellence) and let the Systems be the Systems. (IBO Training Excellence)
In summary, I am absolutely AGAINST the idea of Amway/Quixtar substituting itself for all the great systems we have today, such as Network TwentyOne, Britt World Wide, Internet Services, World Wide DreamBuilders etc.
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