
 NPR's Book of the Day
 NPR's Book of the Day 'Little Bosses Everywhere' looks into the Wild West of multilevel marketing
 May 22, 2025 
 Dive into the intriguing world of multilevel marketing! Discover how MLMs gained popularity post-WWII and why they thrive during economic uncertainty. Explore the blurred lines between MLMs and pyramid schemes, and learn about the harsh reality faced by most participants who struggle to earn a living. Through personal anecdotes and critiques, the discussion sheds light on the ethical challenges and regulatory loopholes of this controversial business model. 
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Personal MLM Sales Experience
- A family friend persistently trying to sell skincare products exemplifies the typical MLM hard sell experience.
- This personal memory illustrates how MLMs can consume social and family interactions.
MLMs Blur with Pyramid Schemes
- MLMs combine product sales with recruiting downlines to earn commissions beyond direct sales.
- The distinction from pyramid schemes is blurry, as both rely heavily on recruitment for income.
MLM Legal Gray Area
- MLMs occupy a legal gray area due to minimal 1979 regulations focused on retail sales to customers.
- The industry thrives because the regulatory oversight is nearly impossible and often ignored.



