Want some great comic relief for the trip up to St. Louis? After the events of last week surrounding YTB and the stock jumping up in price, I decided to do some poking around on the internet to see what was being written about it this weekend.

Honestly, not much. Sure the stock tripled in just a couple of days, but when the price starts at 4 cents a share and climbs to 24 cents, there’s not much to talk about when compared to other stocks.

For Zealots however, little ol’ YTB appears to be the only thing that matters. (A company that controls them by living “rent free” inside their heads.)

Anti-YTB Zealots tend come out of their holes when things like this happen in an attempt to keep their illusions in check. While the folks of YTB and ZamZuu are busy gearing up for another Convention in St. Louis to educate themselves and celebrate another year – Zealots (who just can’t help themselves) get really nervous and vomit some real whoppers in an attempt to curb momentum.

This year however, unlike years past, (for those of us who take the time to pull up the historical pricing) there was a huge run on the stock last week. Was it pre-convention news? Possibly. YTB’s Q2 earnings report? Maybe. Or have people have finally caught on the zealots are full of themselves? (Most likely.)

What busted my gut over the weekend was reading the wreckage anti-MLM zealots left in the wake of the events. When the stock started it’s upward trend at the beginning of the week, I can only imagine how their palms began to sweat – and eyelids began their uncomfortable twitching. By Thursday morning the “head worm” couldn’t take it any longer and posted something in order to satisfy the uncontrollable twitching. Anyone who takes the time to post something like this over a $0.05 increase (as of Thursday morning) – simply shows how nervous, obsessed and irrational some idiots are over Direct Sales and Network Marketing.

Excuse me, that’s “pyramid scheme” according to them.

Oh, but wait – it get better.

The eye twitching turned into a full blown panic attack by 11:00 am that morning after the stock doubled in price once again. Clueless as to what was going on, the worm copied and pasted some screen shots of the 139% increase since his lame attempt to squash the stock failed to catch any traffic or traction. (How dare anyone not take heed of the Great and Powerful Man Behind the Keyboard.) Of course, it could have gotten plenty of traffic, and those who know this guy’s history – most likely took bets in the opposite direction. (If I had read it that morning, I sure would have bought more!)

By 5:00 pm that very same day – the mornings confusion and quote “Not sure what is going on” magically turned into “all so predictable” after 2 million shares were traded that very day when the financial were released after the bell. A flip flop that would have made John Kerry proud! (Did this guy not read what he posted just hours before?)

In all for the day – six separate posts that day all surrounding little ol’ YTB.

Too funny. Who has time for that? (I’m not talking about just writing it – but reading it!!)

For the record, the last time “predictable” YTBLA traded even close to 2 million shares in one day was August 12, 2008 when investors went running for cover thinking California’s Attorney General understood the difference between a legitimate business model and pyramid scheme. (We now know much different – he’s just as clueless as the worms.) The only other time prior to that was when YTB posted it’s first yearly profit – nowhere close to Convention but in April of 2007.

And that’s a trend this Goof calls “predictable”!

I have to give these liars some credit however. They remembered how they spewed illusions that there aren’t any Directors left in YTB to “pump and dump” the stock. Nope. Because they can’t use that as an excuse any longer when stock climbs a few cents a share, they decided to lay it out on Coach, Scott, and Kim! They’re the ones who are pumping up the stock before convention.

How? Well according to the head worm, they terminated their “employment” earlier this year, and are free to trade all they want. (My guess, based on how clueless he is about THAT idea, is so they don’t have to file a Form 4)

Let’s say (for like – a nano second) this worm is right about Coach, Scott, and Kim not being employees of the company. There would still be a Form 4 to document the trades regardless.

Why? Because Coach is still a 10% shareholder and Scott and Kim still reside on the Board of Directors until at least 2012. Until a Form 4 is produced showing even a single share of stock being traded by any of the three – the worm is simply squirming for an answer that will fit into the hole he’s created for himself. It’s a far better alternative than using common sense, logic, or reading actual documentation.

Poor guy – that would just be far to much to handle for a zealot like him.

With so much activity on one blog, the only other place I bothered to check in on was the Yahoo Boards which you just have to love for the simple reason that nobody who posts there owns a single share of stock. Funniest comment I read there over the weekend was some arrogant snot who thought the board was worth reading. Like anyone in YTB or better yet, an investor, would take any of these no name cowards seriously. The one guy who did stand up for the company (sort of) didn’t stand a chance after he misspelled his own name. (Like that has anything to do with stocks.) After that, the guy didn’t have a chance because that’s all the compost the worms needed to chew him up and extract him out the other end.

The rest of the holes these guys may have crawled out of could be better or worse – but I couldn’t tell you. Same story most likely – as they all follow the “head worms” with “baited” breath. (Poor saps have no idea they’re being baited.) Just more no name cowards who think they talk a good game, but end up looking as dumb as the dirt they squirmed out of. Nobody with have a brain really cares to participate in that kind of stupidity, ignorance or childish behavior.

Nope – the smart ones will be heading to St. Louis to celebrate another year that never should have happened.

The worms? They’ll eventually crawl back into the holes they came from after a while. Right now St. Louis is the place they’ll be in mind and spirit this week.

Funny how they wouldn’t touch this company with a ten foot pole – but it sure takes up a lot of energy and time digging holes for themselves.

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Do You ZamZuu?

Now that we’re inside 30 days until the Convention, most of the “news” and “upgrades” are saved for those who actually show up in St. Louis. I went back to July, 2008 to review all the excitement of our largest Convention to date – the buzz about Lady Liberty – and clear signs that YTB was doing everything they could to appease California’s claims about YTB being a “gigantic pyramid scheme”.

The month before Convention, YTB announced they were contemplating a franchise model, and also removed the booking engine link from the marketing sites although nobody really knew why these changes were being made so close to Convention.

Hindsight is always 20/20 – and it’s clear looking back that YTB and California were communicating at the time. YTB was making the appropriate changes during their discussions to conform and ease the concerns California had.

Discussions had been going on since January 2007 when YTB came out with booking requirements for credentials in California. New legislation passed in the state required that any agent had to actually book travel before they were qualified to carry any card offered in the industry.

Typical of critics and zealots who have no clue – they thought this legislation would stop the massive growth of YTB and end the reign of MLM’s in their industry. What it did was put YTB on the map in California. At the beginning of 2007 there was somewhere around 3000 RTA’s in the state. By the end of 2007 – there were more than 20,000.

Oooops.

So zealots and critics do what they always do – they come up with more obstacles. Another group of “professionals” convinced Royal Caribbean to pull the plug on bookings with them to make it look like suppliers were now against MLM.

Problem was – business isn’t that stupid – bookings are bookings and only one other company YTB did a small number of bookings with pulled the plug besides RCL. (There was one other, but I can’t remember who it was. We never did business with them to begin with but any critic could tell you because it matters to them.)

After only securing 3 vendors with no more in sight, critics then came up with more complaints and more hoops that YTB had to jump through in order to remain “compliant”. The heat was cranked up after the company showed a profit to the SEC and was labeled a “Darling” instead of a “scam”. The company got their stock symbol off the Pink Sheets and back onto the OTC.BB. We also can’t forget YTB’s 9 point jump in Travel Weekly’s Power List from #35 to #26.

It scared the living daylights out of the dolts who can’t accept MLM and Network Marketing as a legitimate and viable business model. Remember THEY have to be right – otherwise they’re entire world collapses. MLM’s just can’t do things like this – it’s not right and there has to be something wrong here. (Small thinking I know – but look at whose pointing fingers at us.)

Since nothing critics said or did appeared to be working – they did what they always do when MLM grows to big too fast for their comfort zone. You file a $25 million lawsuit and for added impact they did it the day before everyone got together for the largest Convention to date.

That ‘ill show ‘em! Right?

Wrong…

Fast forward to 2009, and we find Jerry Brown announcing that he “brought an end to an elaborate pyramid scheme” in a very amusing press release. Legal documents however confirmed that all the time and money spent on the litigation pointed directly to the hoops YTB jumped through before the suit was filed to appease concerns about being an illegal pyramid scheme.

If you’re thinking the pyramid schemes are illegal – you’re spot on. Programs and companies that fall into that category are shut down – abruptly.

Since little had changed and Jerry’s claims about shutting the company down fell woefully short – we showed up a year later for another Convention.

California’s suit did work to some degree however. The suit did bleed the company of money with litigation and we never achieved the franchise model announced in 2008 as a legitimate or respectable “franchise”. We still don’t have a franchise to sell. After California took $875,000 from YTB’s pockets, (leaving only $125,000 for the “victims” they claimed they filed it for.) they handed their false claims over to Illinois to squeeze more money out of the company. The company continues to tolerate this myth that someone actually pays for the opportunity to recruit others into a pyramid. (Something that YTB has never done since it’s inception in 2001.)

The Illinois litigation has been stalled since it was filed – ironically filed  just 4 hours after the settlement with California was announced more than a year ago. After passing the baton, millions continue to be spent by both sides over ignorance, bitterness, and sheer stupidity instead of actually spending time and money on franchising.

Now that we’re two years removed from California’s stunt and we’re gearing up for our second Convention since the California A.G. announced his goal of ending our “pyramid scheme” I have to wonder if critics of YTB still think they won and we lost. Sure YTB has been bloodied and battered over California’s claims. The perception over the mere appearance of the word pyramid scheme would put some companies out of business.

Unfortunately, perceptions and accusations can’t overcome or extinguish truth or fact. The false claims from States like California and Illinois and the incessant shaming of our founders and members of YTB by overzealous critics has – in its own way – done some good.

Anyone who takes what they’ve read verbatim or doesn’t conduct their own due diligence about YTB (or Network Marketing in general) certainly won’t take the steps necessary to build a business. I learned very early on in my carrier with YTB that changing habits and perceptions over the ridiculous myths about money just rolling in without doing any work is an unnecessary step in the process. For the vast majority, it stacks the odds against them. While it’s not impossible – it’s a long shot at best that you can extract the weeds that choke logical thinking or change lazy habits if someone is unwilling or uncooperative.

To use an already overused verse – “You can lead a horse to water – but you can’t make them drink.”

I’ve seen and heard about the fears about brain washing. I’ll freely admit that I’ve been brain washed and take the term literally.

Thanks to my journey with YTB and the study I’ve done over the years, my mind has been cleansed. Dirt, stains, limiting beliefs, or any matter that doesn’t serve me has been washed away. One definition is “to free from spiritual defilement” which is appropriate when it comes to the brain. You are what you think about most of the time. What you focus on expands.

Some will continue to focus on perceptions, claims, fears and phobias. (Daily no less.) While the smart ones will see right through the hype and limiting beliefs. I find it fascinating that it’s the folks at YTB who are the ones who mislead and hype everything up. We’re the ones labeled as uncooperative and unwilling to see the light.

Looking back and reading memory lane documented here – and the fact the another Convention is less than 30 days away – me thinks it’s the other way around. ;-P

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Do You ZamZuu?

I remember our first trip to Jamaica more than 13 years ago. It was our first cruise and Ocho Rios was one of the ports of call.

Ronda and I climbed Dunn’s River Falls and after the falls a local took a Polaroid of us and handed it to me.

Not knowing the local “landscape” at the time, I took possession of the Polaroid from the man’s hands – and before I knew it – he was asking for $5.00. For a stinkin’ Polaroid picture! When I told him “no” and tried to hand it back, he pushed my hand away only to stick his other hand out for his $5.00 “picture fee”. The more I told him I wasn’t interested – the more he insisted.

I finally ended up dropping his picture on the ground and walking away.

When we got back on board that afternoon I saw a number of souvenir shirts that read what’s pictured here.

I swore at that moment that our next trip to Jamaica would include this shirt.

We’ve been back several times since then, and I can’t remember which cruise I found it on, but it’s one of my favorite shirts I keep in my drawer.

Yesterday afternoon I got a Google Alert that made me think of this shirt. So I pulled it out, ironed it (it was really wrinkled) and took a snapshot of it just for this article.

Why? Because there are really stupid people in this world who can’t take “NO” for an answer.

Remember the the $100 million Class Action filed two years ago that’s been pulverized, beaten, and obliterated by the Courts turning the entire lawsuit into a very amusing joke? Well it just took a turn for the worse from “joke” to total “embarrassment” because they’re at it – AGAIN!

I wasn’t kidding when I said these idiots think Class Action lawsuits are like cats who have nine lives. It’s simply refilled for another shot. There have been six rulings over the last two years which the Court has denied or dismissed on separate occasions – and instead changing their stance – coming at it from another angle, or better yet – just admitting defeat – these pin heads just keep spouting the same tired argument over and over again.

After six ruling against them, I’m sorry, but it’s time to consider a Mental Health evaluation, not a Lawyer.

What’s even more mind blowing is their claims and position hasn’t changed a single bit. The latest filing is almost verbatim of the first suit file two years ago. It’s the same bogus myths and pyramid scheme mantra with the same cast of characters. What happened to words like “failed”, “corrected”, “deficiency”, “amending”, “incorrectly”, and “realized after 100 hours of arguing”?

Apparently, it was nothing more than lip service. Nothing’s changed and they haven’t learned a blessed thing.

True to form – they’re myths and illusions are spot on – and your knowledge and experience is wrong. The Courts have called this ordeal an “ungainly monster” and used specific words like “redundant, immaterial, impertinent, or scandalous matter” in one ruling, and “the very definition of a fishing expedition” in another ruling.

A Zealots response? Damn the torpedoes – we’re going full speed ahead.

I’m sorry guys…but I have zero tolerance for this kind of stupidity and arrogance. Zealots like this, and the “professional” gang like Frenaye and Stilphen who continue to pitch this pyramid scheme mantra are just dumber than dirt. Anyone who wants to hitch their wagon to this dead horse is only hurting themselves and their reputation. There’s no gray area after all this time and all these rulings.

The answer is still going to be “NO”.

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Do You ZamZuu?

You best stay out of the kitchen.

Being one of the more visible YTB blogs on the internet, I have my share of readership. Most readers are supporters and enjoy my insight and information about our company.

I also have my share of detractors. Some I would safely say detest my existence for one reason or another. If you’re in the public eye, you can’t be everything to everybody and there will always be those who don’t agree with you. What makes my sort of activity and exposure dangerous is when emotions enter into the mix.

Emotions have too many variables. You can’t expect emotions to remain constant over time or from one person to another. Each individual perceives and reacts to each situation differently. Logic and facts however always have a base or a core that remain constant. One of the things we’re finding through our journey together with YTB is that the facts of our business model are able to withstand the misconception, half-truths, and lies that we see from those who use perceptions and opinions as their core defense.

As expected, John Frenaye took exception to my article on Friday and boldly laid claim that I’m the one who “spins”. He added that his blog was more “legitimate” and his was the only viable option where people had to ability to “judge for themselves”.

He’s also a tad upset at what he’s deemed a “personal attack” and eventually, “my lies” will catch up with me.

My – my – my. How easy it is to dish it out.

It’s interesting to me how quickly this group pulls the “personal attack” card when challenged. I’m not sure if they think they’re too pure, or we’re to take pity and look the other way when their blatant misrepresentations about our people, our Founders and our company are created by their hands. I hate to break it to this group – but they leave some enormous “stinkers” out there on the web. Their activities have left some laughing, and others appalled. We DO know right from wrong, ethical from unethical, what is morally right and what’s morally bankrupt.

To illustrate how bold and brazen John has become over the years, we’ll reference one of the most legitimate and honorable sources I know – our court system. What was forwarded to me last week clearly illustrates why our Home Office made the decision to turn down his requested interviews and why others have come to the conclusion that John can’t be trusted to “report” anything concerning YTB in an unbiased or accurate manor.

Case in point: This was written by John last week on his blog:

Of course, back in August of 2009, we reported on the story where Coach had a ramshackle home and was able to convince a church to make the repairs in return for a lease. But Coach reneged on the lease and got his home fixed for free.

I don’t know about you, but I wouldn’t call his post entitled “Once Upon a Time” an actual “report” but ironically – a “Fairy Tale”. If you strip away John’s “report” and look at the court documents which are linked in the word “TRUTH” it reveals John’s elaborate web of deception – not Coach’s.

Yes – John’s the one deceiving the flock – pouring Kool-Aid if you will. The “truth” shows that Coach and Chris “donated” the parcel in question to the church for a Minister and his family use as a parsonage. More troublesome; the word “lease” never even appears in the actual court documents, although conveniently inserted by John in his – “report”.

True, the home needed electrical upgrades to meet code, and a gas furnace needed to be converted to propane. There was never any lease however, and Coach and Chris never received a penny for their generous donation to the Church and its family. Consequently, the court concluded:

“the parcel here in issue and the house thereon qualified for exemption during all of the 1998-assessment year either because it was in the process of adaptation for exempt use or because it was actually used by the Church as a parsonage for Rev. Casey.”

I know I’m going out on a limb, but you be the judge here. Which do you find more “legitimate”? John’s “Once Upon A Time” fairy tale – or – documentation from “The State of Illinois“?

What’s so astounding to me, is the man doesn’t appear to understand how anyone could possibly question his “reporting” as wrong or even inappropriate. To question anything he says or does is challenged with a very coy rebuttal and continued claims that HE is the most fair and unbiased source concerning YTB in the land. According to John, he’s proven how Coach has a long history of deception and he’s proud that his flock agrees that Coach should be thrown in jail for doing what he did to this church.

And yes, that type of arrogance is frustrating – even for me.

We can’t forget another court ruling regarding YTB’s business model and claims of an elaborate pyramid scheme that wasn’t just dismissed but tossed out as “redundant, immaterial, impertinent, or scandalous matter“. Again we find John and others on the wrong end of an argument calling the absurd complaint “powerful”.

Here’s how the Honorable Judge Murphy described the complaint:

“The First Amended Consolidated Complaint, filed July 15, 2009, is an ungainly monster of 39 pages containing 133 paragraphs (many of which have subparagraphs) that likely does not pass muster under the familiar federal “notice pleading” standard.”

True to form, John “disagrees” with the court’s ruling, and makes no apologies for his position or opinions. John falls right in line with the type of hideous and outrageous accusations Counsel tried to pull in its second go around, after the first complaint was dismissed. Their answer to the problem – a bolder, more brazen attack.

So which do you find more legitimate? John’s statement, or Judge Murphy?

From John’s point of view, it’s YTB that is “crafty” and “sly”. The only reason why YTB is still around is due to changing our model or living on the very edge of the law. Regardless how much change or how close we “appear” to be, it’s still the right side of the law. YTB’s model has never required “payment for the opportunity to recruit others” from day one. You may not agree with that – you may not understand that – and you may never accept that. But because yours is only “opinion” and not “fact” – you do have to continue to deal with YTB.

Finally, John recently found out that the law is the law, and everyone (including him) must abide regardless of opinions or perceptions. The creation of a fake Zam Zuu fan page to mock and poke fun at our company violated ZamZuu’s trademark causing a confusing similarity. His defense – a space between “Zam” and “Zuu”. (And no, I’m not kidding.)

John, you don’t just stink – you absolutely reek of lies, deceit and a perception that the laws of this land simply don’t apply to you. It’s a double standard that I will not turn away from and I will not make any apologies for in calling you out. We all make mistakes (even me) but there comes a time when you have to stop blaming others or being a victim and take personal responsibility for your own actions.

You are in the public eye and there will be those who will disagree and oppose you. There will also be those who will hold you accountable for your actions. If you don’t like it, either toughen up or stop what you’re doing and go back into hiding.

As it stands right now – you have proven to me, our company, and several outsiders who have no beef one way or another with YTB that you should not be trusted due to your attitude and your actions documented above.

For every action, there is a reaction. So if you don’t like my reaction, stop acting the way you are!

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Do You ZamZuu?

Most all of you have read my tribute to Andy Cauthen. I’ve personally spoken with him and he’s adjusting to the drastic change from corn fields to cement and tall buildings. In my tribute, I mentioned that the only explanation critics would get was a Press Release to gnaw on that really won’t say much other than we’re sad to see Andy go, but wish him well in his future endeavors.

Something you need to understand about critics: they always have to be right. That’s why they have the last word – and they never let anything go.

My comment about critics only deserving a Press Release was actually perceived as a challenge by the ring leader of this group. Probably because they also have another obsession over trying to prove me wrong. Andy was in fact contacted during his last week of employment for an “interview” to answer some questions. Andy being Andy obviously agreed at first because he’s a professional and sincerely wanted our field to understand and look at his move in a positive light.

After careful thought and some time reading on this critics blog, it became apparent that any type of fair or balanced interview wasn’t likely by this individual. What he saw were half-truths, blatant misrepresentations, and some flat out lies about our company that made him extremely uncomfortable about his decision and interview. So Andy, very politely, and respectfully declined his interview with our head critic.

The word “No” isn’t a word critics like to hear. They’re like children, and “no” doesn’t actually mean “no” – it means go ask another parent. So our interviewer went on to another prospect at the home office for this “interview” about YTB.

Again, he was turned down. But this time he was told more truthfully that his past “reliable sources” for inside information have never been accurate and they [YTB] do not feel that their answers as written would be quoted completely or fairly…but rather changed to meet his own agenda. It was also decided that based on his trademark infringing and deliberately misleading “Zam Zuu” Facebook fan page (which by the way is finally gone thanks to Legal and a Cease and Desist) he could not be trusted to objectively report on any news or opinions about YTB in a fair and unbiased manner.

If that sounds harsh or stern, it is. I can’t tell you how many times something I’ve actually written here has been twisted to meet this individuals “agenda”. (After three years, I’d need more than my entire family’s fingers and toes to count.) The man is extremely gifted at taking words and comments and twisting them to mean something completely different.

So, since he can’t seem to find anyone to answer for him, he’ll do what he’s always done. Take all these rumors and beliefs, and publish them as questions as a public display of humiliation, and an “oh my, what’s wrong with YTB now?” While a handful of followers cheers him on thinking that nobody has answers concerning what they sadly believe as the truth.

Problem is, and I think you’ll clearly see this, these questions aren’t really questions. Better stated, they’re accusations that he’s asking the company to defend. That’s the critic’s way. Most of what you’ll see has no documentation or evidence to support the statements. Because its critics we’re dealing with, nobody needs supporting documentation.

Well, I’ll let you decide, because I got a copy of the questions.

For fun, I decided to answer as many as I could. Some as you’ll see couldn’t be answered because they don’t actually exist. Pay particular attention to the way each question is worded and you’ll quickly see why the home office thinks this guy is a joke. By the way; that’s how this should be consumed, with amusement, not anger or resentment. Part of our critics problem is that their anger consumes them and they can’t think logically or rationally. Seen it time and time again and it turns a complete fabrication into an emotional outburst that has no rhyme or reason.

So if you’re angry about this guy’s obsession over YTB, and his constant ridicule with every aspect of our company and our people, just move on to something else. This won’t help. If you understand like I do that this is nothing more than a fishing expedition and a desperate attempt for more drama to occupy his time and energy, by all means, read on!

Q: Over the last month, YTB has lost the CFO, the Master Distributor, the President and COO, and the SVP of Training and International Expansion. Is Bob Van Patten handling ALL of these tasks now?

I admire how much you think of Mr. VanPatten. From what I here, he is the single biggest reason you still have something to write about on your blog. He’s managed to keep YTB alive long after all of the critic’s predictions of impending doom. Bob VanPatten is the CEO of YTB International. As CEO he administrates, and puts the best people qualified in the positions needed. As you well know, the only position Mr. VanPatten has taken a close eye on is that of our former CFO. His background and experience dictates he is well suited for that position. (Not to mention our last two financial statements with him as CEO which have shown profits.)

In case you have not heard, Coach Tomer is our new Master Distributor. (I wrote about it here.) It’s a position he thrives in and is well suited for in my opinion. The field also gets to see much more of him now. I can’t think of a better “recruiter”.

Furthermore, as an outsider, I don’t expect you to know that the position of SVP of Training was furloughed several months back by the company. (We’ll address this “furlough” again for you a little further down.) The SVP position in question was vacant due to Mr. VanPatten making that choice, not the other way around.

Q: What has this done for the morale of the home office? The field?

For someone who trolls each and every Facebook page, blog, and forum that YTB has, you know exactly what it’s done. We adapt, we move on, and we move forward. We focus on things we can control and stay positive about. If you need proof here’s a thread from this past weekend I’m sure you saw. (It would make a great screen capture for your next blog post!)

Based on those comments, I’d say moral is mighty high right now, wouldn’t you? The same weekend Andy left too.

Q: YTB is continuing to lose about 100 RTA/TSO’s per day. What do you feel can be done to stop that?

Aside from getting a gag order prohibiting you and the handful of Zeolots from throwing mud and trash out there without any documentation or regard for the truth, I don’t know if there’s anything that can be done. I will say that much of your trash has been cleaned up thanks to the court system and because YTB is still around. People are starting to realize just how absurd some of your speculation and comments really are. As a result, it appears that a number of those “loses” are re-engaging in the company once again.

We call it F.E.A.R. which stands for False Evidence Appearing Real.

Q: I understand you are actively trying to sell the HQ building. What are the plans when it is sold? Where will YTB/Zam Zuu move? Certainly for a technology company, you don’t need that type of space. With Coach out of the Riverhouse now, are you planning to move to FL?

You understand? How do you “understand” without any documentation to support what you’re asking? Truth is, it’s nothing more than exploring some options.

So let’s turn this around and assume you’re right about the sale of the Home Office. My question for you would be – how will the sale of the home office advance your desire to see YTB killed off? A large influx of cash from this asset, along with the 56 acres the company also owns outright, would be a serious blow to someone like you who would like to see the company suffocate. It could be a real game changer. As you’ve said – as a technology company we don’t need this type of space and we could certainly use that “cash” to speed things up and moving in the right direction.

Think of it as “blog security”. ;-P

Q: By all measures, Zam Zuu seems like it was thrown together in a matter of days. Domains bought at the last minute for short durations. Lack of foresight in securing social networking URLS, etc. Do you feel Zam Zuu is in it for the long haul?

Read this article and then this article and note the dates they were published. Then help all of us undertand how you can measure that time span in “days”? I understand that a year consists of 365 “days”, but nobody uses “365 days” and “thrown together” in the same sentence without looking ridiculous.

You can also read this article and it will all come together for you very nicely. It should put to rest this absurd notion that the company didn’t think this through. And by the way, a company initially named “Cadabra” (as in “abracadabra”) was reluctantly changed at the last minute back in 1994. Do a little research on Amazon.com, and you’ll find what they did worked out just fine.

ZamZuu was a result of a years’ worth of testing, study, and a realization that we had another market shift. Kind of like travel was for us, and you saw what this company did with that. And regardless of any comments to the contrary, you did take notice. It scared the daylights out of you. You post and dribble about this company incessantly because of it.

Q: What sets Zam Zuu apart from any of the other online cash back “malls”? Even some of your stores are offering better cash back deals directly. IE: Last week, Best Buy had a 25% cash back program, while Zam Zuu was at 1.5%.

And just where is that 20% now?

Gone.

ZamZuu offers it’s Best Buy 1.5% all year long. (Sorry, that’s 365 “days” for you.) Furthermore, you’re assuming that by accessing BestBuy.com through our ZamZuu portal customers won’t have access to the special 20%? You’re assuming incorrectly if that’s the case. There is nothing that prohibits a ZamZuu customer from seeing or receiving that 20%.

Oh…and one other thing. I just checked my Best Buy e-mail folder, I can’t find this deal from them. Care to provide this “offer” just to keep things documented? Thanks!

Q: How do you explain to the field the incredible departure of directors and the change in the compensation plan? This plan was marketed as “copyrighted and on file with every Attorney General in the US and cannot ever be changed.” I think several departed directors might have a different opinion.

It’s no secret that YTB has assembled some of the best recruiters the industry has ever seen. They had a key role in YTB’s dramatic rise to the top and HUGE contributor to the insensate hammering by critics who fear recruiting and large sums of money like you. With the lawsuits, it became open season for other companies to recruit these leaders and bring them over to their teams. A huge feather in their cap snagging a YTB Director for sure. I can’t think of one Director who wasn’t bought off in some regard by money or position to make the switch.

While it’s sad to see some of these people go, I can’t blame them for taking some very attractive and lucrative offers. They’re tough to turn down when the offers grow in size and frequency.

Yes, the compensation plan has been increased and enhanced several times through my tenure with YTB. I would also speculate that you are correct that even the departed Directors would consider overrides on more products and higher commission splits on travel a plus. It’s never diminished in any form or fashion from the day I started.

Q: Can you comment or are you aware of the pending investigation by the Dept. of Justice?

Really? Which division? Antitrust? Civil Rights? Natural Resources? National Security? Or maybe Tax? Tell you what. When this “pending” turns into a “real” investigation and you have something more than just a rumor from one of your buds who heard it from another bud, we’ll discuss it then. For now, we’re limiting the questions and discussion to things that actually exist. Not some rumor or fantasy that gets you all excited and seething.

I know you’ve got finger and toes crossed that it’s true, but you also thought California was going to be your savior shutting YTB down, and look how that turned out.

Q: Are you finding it difficult to keep the momentum going? Since the settlement, the recruiting has been hemorrhaging.

Since the settlement, the hemorrhaging has actually stopped. You even wrote about it during the last quarterly report. Don’t revert back to something you admitted isn’t accurate. California was going to shut the company down, and when that didn’t happen people popped their heads out of their boom shelters and found that the scare you created was nothing more than a false alarm.

I’m happy to report that due to the launch of ZamZuu and the clarification from YTB Travel Network President Kim Sorensen, momentum isn’t a problem. By the time you find evidence of that in the quarterly reports, it may be too late for you to spin it another way however. (I certainly hope so.)

Q: Looking to the future (be that 5 days or 5 decades), how do you describe YTB? I know for years the focus has been on Travel and the mantra was “we’re a travel company”. I think that focus has changed. What kind of company will YTB be in the future?

Truth be told, you’ve never considered YTB a travel company, only a recruiting company. It doesn’t matter if it’s 5 days or 5 decades, your “thinking” is the only thing that won’t change in that regard. Nothing YTB ever does as a travel company is ever good enough for you. You’ve been harping about the Travel Weekly Power List for the last three years, but have never once even considered resolving your issue with them. Why not? What are you afraid of? Do you or don’t you want an answer?

Most likely, you don’t. Because it’s not about answers, it’s about questions. The more questions, the more chaos. The more chaos the more drama for you and your pals to stir up the pot.

Case in point, you were on the YTB Travel webcast last Sunday night and were given answers first hand from Kim. You heard about our plans and where we intend to be as a Host Agency. Do you expect us to answer any differently for you simply because of your inability to listen and actually learn like the rest of us?

Stop asking questions that you already have answers for. I know you don’t like the answers, but good grief, grow up and accept that we’re not going to change because you think we should. You’re not that important and there’s no amount of bitching that’s going to change that.

Q: Are you planning on hanging around?

Hanging isn’t word that resembles someone who is passionate and motivated. Too many people just “hang around” and that’s why we see the poor income disclosure statements that you like to slobber all over. So in that regard, no, I won’t hang around. I do however have a strong desire to continue to learn and grow with this company. I feel it’s an important aspect of success.

Q: With the cruise industry’s Wave Season in the beginning of the year; what was the rationale behind terminating 25% of YTB’s travel customer service people? I understand the economy and scaling back, but for a “travel company” to cut back on the travel staff just as the economy is picking up did not make sense to me.

Can you document for us which department was actually terminated? You found out the SVP of Training for YTB’s RPM program was part of that “termination”. RPM is not part of YTB’s travel customer service and neither were others I know at the home office.

You’ve got to do a better of collecting data and finding better sources. You’ve just proven you don’t actually know what department YTB decided to cut back on, so your question and accusation makes you look arrogant to some and foolish to others. (Not to worry, you still have a handful of faithful who like you, don’t care about facts, they just like to be part of the insults and slander.)

Q; How many RTAs/TSOs do you currently have? How many new Zam Zuu sites have been sold since the launch?

This qualifies as “insider information” and is not something a public company will disclose to anyone outside of the SEC filings.

Q; Do you have any comment on the income disclosures? Both the Marketing and Travel ones are showing that it costs more to be involved with each successive year, yet the average income declines each year as well.

I’m very happy to report that due to YTB Travel Networks commitment to training and upgrades, our new Travel Agent incomes have actually increased to a level that now exceeds the monthly service charges and fees as an average group. We owe much of that to the industry which help resolve and works with the industry instead of tearing it down. And we actually listen and then respond appropriately to the concerns and questions that the industry has. (Imagine that!) It’s especially gratifying to see this type of growth through a turbulent and difficult year that saw prices drastically reduced – thus cutting all of our commission by a substantial amount.

If you would like to compare 2008 numbers to 2009, you are welcome to do so. 2009 was a very trying and difficult year that saw many companies crumble and tens of thousands of jobs lost. To pin our decrease on our business model is narrow minded and one sided.

Word has it, and I’m certainly showing that 2010 could be a real game changer in that regard thanks to the hard work and enhancements now in place courtesy of the Home Office at YTB.

###

So there you go. I hope you enjoyed reading this as much as I enjoyed writing it. It’s been a long time since I had an opportunity to actually tear into somebody like this. (And after such a nice post like Wednesday…what a shame.)

I suspect there will be more pointed questions concerning my answers around the various blogs and forums. A lot of “Yeah butts” and “What about this” type stuff in an attempt to keep me engaged. Let me state for the record that I don’t expect them to consider my answers acceptable. Thing is, I didn’t answer the questions for them; I did it for those who comprehend and read accurately and correctly.

Like I said, it’s not about answers. It’s about drama, rumors, and doubt that these questions are asked. Most as you’ve seen had already been answered – several times.

I’m also sorry about the long post – but I wanted to get it over an done with in one shot. I get calls and e-mails all the time about his behavior and his accusations and there’s just not enough time to pick up after this guy. So I just let it go and you should too, especially after seeing how wrong he actually is.

Onward and upward on Monday and looking forward to getting back to our regularly scheduled programming.

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I don’t know how many actually remember reading “The Scarlet Letter“, nor how many have actually read this classic Nathanial Hawthorne novel. It takes place in Boston in the seventeenth century. A woman named Hester was sentenced to wear a large Scarlett Letter on her breast after it was discovered that her child was conceived from having an adulterous affair. She was deemed a sinner, and was publicly displayed as such. As a result, the town would hurl insults to humiliate her for having sinned.

Hester was publicly shamed – socially isolated and alienated for her indiscretion.

Three centuries later, most of us would consider such a public display barbaric – or at the very least uncivilized. I still see plenty of examples, mostly from my kids experience in school with one child’s attempt to shame another in front of their peers. (Remember seeing the “Kick Me” signs on the back of the class nerd?) As adults, we develop a higher sense of self-worth and self confidence in our own abilities that such behavior is no longer necessary.

The act of shaming another person is an attempt to gain power over another. The desire is to alter and shape another’s behavior or belief. It’s a way to communicate who is the outcast and who are the elite. Who is down-and-out and who is one-up. It produces an immense sense of power and control for the person dishing out the insults – using the other as a punching bag – while deflating the self-esteem and self-worth of the person being shamed.

I’ve never bought into shaming another person as a form of control – it’s just not something that I believe is effective or worthwhile. My recovery from alcoholism 20 years ago enabled me to develop a higher standard of self-worth, self-esteem, and self-confidence. My recovery also changed my perspective when dealing with individuals who attempt to shame others.

It was during that time I found they were the ones who are weak and insecure – not the other way around.

Think about it – if your position and confidence resided where you felt secure there wouldn’t be a need to fill any type of void by stepping on someone else to prop yourself up. Likewise, there wouldn’t even be a need to respond because your own experience and beliefs override any outside attempts to change that belief.

You’d already be whole or complete.

Seeing random acts of humiliating and alienating has increased for me over the last few years. In part, because I’m involved in a very emotional industry which provides average people an opportunity to run a home based business. On the one side, these same average individuals see an opportunity to get themselves out from under the bottom of the pyramid known as traditional business. (Starting at the bottom and never finding a way to work their way up the ladder, or pyramid.) On the other side, you find those who have either failed themselves in a short stint with MLM, or have bought into all the myths and stereotypes they find from reading.

A simple observation will quickly form the conclusion that those who have the least experience on either side are by far the ones who are the loudest and most obnoxious. Why? They don’t have enough experience or documentation to fall back on to support their beliefs or convictions.

Look at Coach, Scott, and Kim. All three have been extremely successful in MLM and their experiences extend back to the early 1980′s with A.L. Williams. Attempting to insert any of the myths, rumors, or stereotypes about MLM into their belief system is like trying to tell YOU the sky is purple. The opposition can jump up and down – scream at the top of their lungs – provide example of others who also think the sky is purple but you’re not going to budge. All those years of looking up to the sky and seeing blue simply can’t be overwritten or changed.

Think that example is oversimplified or outrageous? Possibly – for you. But those of us who’ve been a part of this industry and work it the right way know exactly what I mean. It’s something you can’t explain – like how kids will change your life. You have to experience it to realize the importance or relevance.

I was talking with my father last week about all the egg tossing and mudslinging that I see others get so wrapped up in. He told me he sees it all around us, and is thankful that he’s somewhat isolated now with my younger brother on their farm up in Pittsburgh. While my father is now retired, he still writes and teaches to keep himself occupied during the winter months on the farm. He sent out a publication to his subscriber base yesterday (of which I am a part of) and this one paragraph struck a chord with me after our conversation last week.

I know that rancor and incivility has existed before in the history of this nation’s politics. But seldom if ever has it been in the ugly stalemate we now experience. Neither major party will allow the other party to press any part of its agenda. Senators who argue vociferously on the floor of congress no longer later sit down to lunch or dinner with their other-party colleagues. The scene is ugly and disappointing.

Ugly and disappointing is something our entire Country appears to be trapped in right now. Incivility certainly isn’t reserved for critics of YTB or MLM. It’s a trait that’s been learned and developed throughout the years that frankly, like my father, makes me sick to my stomach. How humans can treat other humans in this fashion is deplorable and unconscionable. For someone to demand respect or a voice by using these tactics goes beyond any boundaries I’ve ever known. It’s a big reason why I have the rules that I do on this blog.

I’ve spent years documenting about my experience and what I know to be true about YTB and MLM here on this blog. You don’t have to agree with it or even read it if it bothers you. But it does have boundaries for those who are incapable of being civil or rational. It’s simply not a trait I’ve been willing to tolerate since I started this blog – and I’m certainly not going to change that position now.

For the life of me, I can’t think of a single example of how insults or humiliation changed or resolved anything. All it did was heighten emotions, not logic. You’d think some would get that. But as we’ve seen – even the brightest, most talented, most promising of individuals fall woefully short of reaching any resolution because they’re just too wrapped up in their own egos.

We can only hope (and pray) that someday they might grow up to become confident, respectable adults.

You never know…it could happen.

In the meantime, just put these people aside and focus on the things you can control and find enjoyable. There’s no pleasure or knowledge in reading insults.

If I can do it, so can you, and you’ll never know how much better life can be until you actually let it all go.

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That life is boring at YTB. ;-P

I apologize for not getting something out sooner – the kids had early release the last two days and we had projects planned. I also have a business to run and don’t have the vast amount of time in my profession that others apparently have. I have however been trying to sort out fact from fiction from various sources I know and trust via phone since the latest episode of “Days of YTB” has hit cyberspace.

Before we get started…I think it’s appropriate for the proper background music due the nature of what’s happened this week. For your listening pleasure, I’ve resurrected an oldie but goody that I’ve used before when there’s so much talk about YTB.

Apparently there was a mass exodus of wackos over the last 36 hours that have put out some pretty outrageous stuff. As usual, those of us who have a firm grasp on the situation are left to clean up the mess. Due to time restraints, I need to warn everyone that I have not read – but merely heard some of the rumors I’m about to squash. Therefore, please understand that some of what I might comment on – may not have ever been written in the vast space we call the internet – nor can I reference just who said it.

The following is a list of what I have heard and what I know to be true.

YTB’s CFO, John Clagg has resigned effective February 2nd. I’ve heard of various scenarios on how this came about. Some reasonable and some outlandish. The reasonable would consist of being burned out. With what the company has gone through since the California Law Suit was filed the day before the 2008 National Convention, and a new CEO who has a keen eye on the companies bottom line – it’s understandable that it would drain anyone.

Another reason I’ve heard is that John saw the writing on the wall – meaning, YTB isn’t going to make it.

Please…

One, the company has secured a $650,000 loan based on the expectant sale of the former home office located at One Country Club Drive. Which is odd – because it’s been widely publicized for years on various boards and blogs that YTB doesn’t have any assets to speak of. (Who knew?)

Two, it was announced on a company call yesterday, and corresponding documentation will be available to the field of some 300 $1000 Quick Start Bonuses will be in mailboxes across the country today. The ZamZuu e-commerce platform announced at the Coach’s Birthday Bash in early January has provided a much needed stimulus package for the field. When the field is making money, the company is making money. The enhanced commission structure enables the average person to attain a bonus, and that builds momentum.

You certainly don’t need to be a CPA to understand that cash flow isn’t the current problem at this point in time. (Still tight, but there is light at the end of the tunnel.)

An interesting observation from some time ago – I remember the exiting CFO being chastised by critics as “unqualified” for the position. It’s rather convenient that the ridicule and lack of qualifications are quickly tossed aside now that John has decided resign. I just love how folks can play both sides of the fence when a new position appears to benefit them. Happens with Directors too. All of the sudden these liars, scammers, and cheaters suddenly turn into Saints simply by leaving the company for another.

It would make any John Kerry supporter proud.

While there is a rumor of massive trading from our Directors due to this news, I’d hardly consider 29,300 shares massive. While John did resign on February 2nd, it was well after the closing bell on Tuesday. (3:00 Central time) I’ve never really understood just why this type of rumor persists with our Directors. I just chalk it up to ignorance and a way for critics to create more drama. Day traders have a ton more fun with this stock than any Director. Due to the timing of our CFO’s resignation and how suddenly (although not surprising) the resignation developed – nobody had any chance to benefit one way or another from this news. Based on the volume, between the verbal resignation and the release of the 8K – the numbers certainly don’t indicate insider knowledge.

Current CEO Robert Van Patten will fill in as interim CFO of the company until a replacement can be acquired. Mr. Van Patten is well equipped to fulfill the roll as CFO for YTB International, and has been in charge of much larger corporations in the past. His leadership is the largest reason why YTB has been able to acquire – all be it small – profits the last two quarters even with revenue down in 2009.

Another rumor floating around is that Ron Head, YTB’s Master Distributor has been terminated. While this may be the case after a thorough investigation – at present any word of termination is premature. Ron has I’m sorry to say been suspended due to possible cross recruiting.

If I’m getting e-mails and calls from every Tom, Dick, and Harry about the next “Big Thing” I can’t even begin to imagine what kind of carrots our Directors are seeing. How much greener the pastures are – how well everyone BUT YTB is doing in this economy – or all those “special positions” reserved for “true leaders” in the industry. I’ve seen and heard some real WHOPPERS in regards to rumors about what’s going on with YTB – including one I’ll mention later – that aren’t created by critics of MLM – but other MLM companies to lure people over to their company.

Attaining a Circle of Champion Director from YTB is a HUGE feather in the cap of any company because – as we all know – YTB created massive amounts of income for those who went to work. So much so, it caught everyone’s attention. Especially in an industry that understands and wants “recruiters”.

A personal note here – and this has nothing to do with Ron or any specific Director who has since left YTB for “greener pastures”. I have yet to hear of see any of YTB’s former Directors leave and actually stay with the next best thing they left YTB for. Several Directors that I know of have been with several different companies since leaving YTB and I can’t think of one (NOT ONE) who is currently better off today than they were the day they left YTB. Nor, with the exception of Corr, who just launched his new venture this week, is currently with the same company they moved on to.

That’s not to say they won’t be able to find another home. For some, I sincerely hope they do. It should be noted however that all of the fanfare up to this point has been nothing more than a passing fancy for every single Director who has left YTB for the next big thing.

Another very curious rumor floating around was that Coach, Scott and Kim were forming another MLM. Honestly, I just can’t wrap my head around this one. Critics, I could understand – they’ve always thought that our Founders would eventually call it quits. Some speculated retirement on some remote island with all our $50 checks in tow – while others speculated another industry entirely to rape and pillage. I’d expect that kind of stupidity from them.

It appears that rumor has also been squashed as Coach has been appointed the newest Master Distributor of…

Wait for it…

YTB.

Sigh…Coach will be recruiting again and honestly, it’s what he does best. I realize that frustrates some, and I know the fears and phobias surrounding the word “recruiter”. People slap that word on me all the time – and truth be told – yes, I do recruit. I recruit for Carnival, Princess, Sandals, Collette, Delta, Air Tran, Holiday Inn, Avis, Sears, Home Depot, Best Buy, and YTB. (Among others, but you get the idea.) We all recruit in some form or fashion and I fail to see what the concern or deal is when it comes to word “recruit”.

I can only hope that at some point in time they come come to grips with their “issues”. But don’t expect me to own that type of stupidity and fear just because it makes someone angry or bitter. The heightened outbursts and emotions I see reflects more about them, then it ever will me.

In closing, for those of you in YTB for reasons only you have a right to decide and place judgment on – don’t lose your focus or the sight of your dreams. Many of you got into YTB to sell travel and/or e-commerce. Others have found a new spark in the e-commerce platform that has triggered bringing people into a very promising opportunity that like travel a couple years ago was attractive to the masses.

If you’re like me, you see all the deposits waiting to turn into cash when these vacations are consumed this summer. Like the company, you need to think long term and tighten up to stay in the game in order to capitalize on the deposits your sitting on. Others saw checks in the form of cash back this week for doing what you already do – shop. More of the same is coming on the 11th when the residuals for being a business owner are sent out not only for your own shopping but all those who shopped on your sites.

By the way you realize they too got cash back checks this week from their own shopping experience with ZamZuu right?

Call them up…ask them if they think this works.

I got to tell you, it’s a much better alternative than searching the internet right now, trying to get a feel from a bunch of cowards who don’t have the guts to put a real name behind what they plaster all over the internet or talk about on the phone.

Because I had another post scheduled for today, it’s been bumped to Monday. I think you’ll like it and it drives home why ZamZuu is right on mark and why big name companies are going to a model just like ours to sell their product or service. You don’t want to miss it!

Hope to see you again on Sunday in your e-mail box with this week’s wrap up and the Just Picture It Now Newsletter.

PS - If you're involved with YTB, sign up for our FREE Newsletter. As a Website Owner or Website Seller, we'll keep you up to date with all the latest news, acquisitions, and developments with YTB.

PPS - Subscribe to the Just Picture It Now RSS feed, (including e-mail) for all the latest posts and updates found right here!

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