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June 1, 2025 74 mins
In this episode of the Cult Vault Podcast, Kacey and Darren Mudd delve into the world of multi-level marketing (MLM), specifically focusing on Amway. Darren shares his personal experience of being recruited into Amway during a vulnerable time in his life, highlighting the psychological tactics used by recruiters to exploit emotional states. The conversation explores the cult-like dynamics of university environments, the early warning signs of MLMs, and the brainwashing techniques employed through a structured learning curriculum. As the discussion progresses, they examine the challenges of recruitment, the illusion of success, and the growing dependency on the system, ultimately shedding light on the manipulative nature of MLMs and the emotional toll they can take on individuals. 


Darren’s recollections of participating in the Amway Pyramid Scheme as a university student:

Amway Pyramid Scheme

David’s brother joined AMWAY In the UK as an IBO, quickly became obsessed with it, and took control of the family’s capital assets
AMWAY In the UK

The tools/training business (an unofficial organisation) was based in Somerset and supposedly meant to “help” people build the Amway business through mentorship and materials - this was the actual cult whereas Amway was the pyramid scheme.
Amway and one of its tools/training businesses

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