First off, before I talk about today’s issue, I want to thank everyone who watches this show. I know how important your time is and to watch this and support what we’re doing is an incredible gift to me. Thank you, thank you, thank you! 
Second–juxtaposed quite nicely–I’m a little steamed…
I just got an email back from a health expert and I caught a sense he was giving me the “it’s not OK to make money in the health industry” vibe.
First let me say this… it’s entirely OK for people to think this… I–personally–just don’t understand it.
I hesitated to put this episode up, but I sat with it for a while and all signs pointed to “go”. So it’s here and I’m glad it is.
I think what I address here is a big elephant in the room that none of my colleagues are addressing. (Maybe because they’re smarter than me 
) But I truly feel it needs to be discussed more than a few times, massaged and brought into the open.
So here goes… love me or hate me!
Just some additional commentary…
Why in all other sorts of capitalism is it OK to sell things (e.g. the grocery store, the tire shop, a restaurant) but the minute we start talking about health we open a slimy can of worms.
And maybe it’s only online. Or maybe it’s only people who are in the public eye who get chastised. I’m not sure.
We run a low profile, successful personal training business offline. No one has ever questioned our fees. It’s a service business. We provide great service to our clients in return for payment. We provide them with health information.
Though when we started going online selling and promoting the same great information (and now for free with this show), we started to see more of an expectation of “health martyrdom” that I think needs to be discussed.
Here’s the inevitable Catch 22… if the trusted health experts don’t get paid, they don’t provide us more information. Not a great outcome. Who do you want to get paid? The people you trust or the people who market cheap, useless products?
Your BIG question of the day: Do you think it’s OK to make money as a provider of health information or products?
I have a feeling this will generate a decent amount of response, so get your comment in sooner than later to speak your peace!
Click here and scroll down to the bottom to leave your comment now!
Live Awesome!
Kevin
7:36 pm on April 10th, 2008
Thanks for bringing this topic up in such a passionate way. When promoting my services, I have been attacked for using “high powered” sales techniques yet my goal is to reach more people and give them the help they need.
I wrote about being a martyr is heavily indoctrinated into our society by main stream religion and that sacrifice is in some way holier than enjoying abundance. All these beliefs are interwoven.
I’m glad I’ve cleared the beliefs around “healer = martyr” and my clients see the way I value myself and my service and respect that.
7:53 pm on April 10th, 2008
Hi Kevin,
I have two short thoughts re: your question…
1)In my profession, I provide a service and I expect the people that need that service to pay me when I provide it to them. Why would I expect you (or anyone in your profession) to do any different? I don’t. ((for the other readers – I’m an aircraft engineer – I made it sound like I was in the “oldest profession in the book”, didn’t I
)).
2) Possibly, (but in error), Joe Doe may be accustom to health info and services being funded by either big corps or the government. Then – Joe Doe gets it for free. Isn’t THIS exactly how we get twisted, biased health info that is in fact no help to us at all – and in fact leads us astray from the truth.
Certainly, the big corps and the government have helped us get to the unhealthy state we are in as a population….the”funded” method clearly hasn’t worked. But its a paradigm shift in the population’s way of thinking….and possibly within the health profession itself.
Dede
8:32 pm on April 10th, 2008
Kevin,
If you haven’t read “Atlas Shrugged”, read it.
If you’ve read it, review it.
Thank you for your the information you provide.
Jerry
8:32 pm on April 10th, 2008
I just want to put in my words of support for you and others who are passionate about sharing the truth and making the world a better place. I hope there are many happy returns for you and your family in the way of financial success and happiness….. Dede above was right. We want to be careful about relying on “free” information put out by big corps who are really trying to mislead us. I’d rather pay and get the truth.
8:37 pm on April 10th, 2008
I’ve actually been told off royally for selling a product I really believe in, I’m handicapped and online sales used to keep me going, This irate person said I should just go to work for KMart rather than doing the degrading sales thing.
I now write an extensive newsletter all for free but if I sneak an ad in somewhere I’;m sure to be castigated for spending 30 or so hours per week and not doing it for free, tho’ if you think I’m making anything, you’re wrong.
9:06 pm on April 10th, 2008
To start with let me say that I have never, ever felt any pressure whatsoever to buy anything…in fact just the opposite. I have been astounded from the beginning that you, Kevin, provide free access to so much sound educational information on health (for ex., free access to part of your summits…in fact a month or so ago, we had access to all of them, not to mention this amazingly entertaining and educational renegade show). In fact, you have provided me with the opportunity to open my mind to new frontiers in health…raw food, for example, which I had never heard of before. It is unreasonable and insane to expect a health expert, or any other expert for that matter, not to offer some of their services or products for sale…after all everyone has a right to a living! I totally agree with you Kevin…and as a consumer I really don’t mind and was never anoyed by any e-mails or advertisements on your site. You are doing a super good job of spreading your health messages. Please don’t let such an irreasonnable e-mail deter you. This smells of jealousy to me. I just wish we had more such dedicated and enthusiastic health advocates as you! You make my day…every day! Keep up the good work!
Jacqueline
9:07 pm on April 10th, 2008
Kevin,
First of all, thank-you!
Secondly, I believe those who would critcize getting paid for services rendered (truthful knowledge is indeed a service) have ego issues and are to be ignored. Giving back is admirable, but giving it all away isn’t even practical!
Thirdly, I think it would be splendid to earn a living which brings such great reward and passion. Listen to our e-mails kevin, we have nothing to gain by misleading you & in return we don’t believe you would mislead us either.
That doesn’t mean that we have to always agree with you, but you just couldn’t fake all the sincerity that comes through in your videos. Live Awesome.
Janice
9:42 pm on April 10th, 2008
Enjoy your free advice – it is priceless.
9:52 pm on April 10th, 2008
We 3 girls think your free video is about the best thing on after dinner! Thank you sososososo much, as you put it. We can’t wait til next Wednesday in the kitchen.
There are a lot of people trying to make their living in natural health that don’t really help you at all, sort of like doctors and pharmacists. But there is also daily negative news against the natural health field which heightens skepticism a great deal.
10:38 pm on April 10th, 2008
LOVE YOUR SHOW, HEALTH IS MY PASSION AND YOU INSPIRE ME WITH YOUR KNOWLEDGE. I TEND TO SKIP OVER ALOT OF READING THAT IS WHAT MAKES YOUR SHOW SPECIAL TO ME, I GET TO WATCH, OK, CALL ME LAZY. P.S. I AM PREGNANT AND WOULD LOVE TO HEAR SOME RECOMMENDATIONS. THANKS FOR ALL YOU DO FOR ME AND MY FAMILY.
PEACE, AMY
11:53 pm on April 10th, 2008
We live in a capitalist society (Thankfully!). You have interesting and accurate knowledge, you invested your time and self into acquiring this knowledge, why not sell it? You’ve got to eat? Was this person expecting the government to feed, clothe and house you?
BTW, my husband decided he has GOT to start firming up his abs, not to just have a six pack (hee hee hee), but to help with his back.
So, I told him to forget everything he’s done or read in the past about ab exercises, he needs to visit the Renegade Health Blog! And, it helps that the info is coming from a guy!
Kevin and AnneMarie, thanks for all you do.
May your lives and business continue to be blessed.
11:59 pm on April 10th, 2008
HI KEVIN!! HEY!! LOOK IT THIS WAY: IF YOU PROVIDE GOOD HEALTH INFORMATION FOR A PRICE AND THAT KEEPS YOU HEALTHY AND USEFUL AND ABLEBODY CONSIDER THE BIG MONEY YOU SAVE IN MEDICAL TREATMENTS, HOSPITALIZATIONS, DAYS OF WORK YOU DONT LOSE AND MORE IMPORTANT: QUALITY OF LIFE AND ENJOYMENT OF THE GOOD THINGS BEING ALIVE WE CAN FULFILL.IF I GET THAT I’M SURE IT IS A GOOD INVESTMENT.THINK ABOUT IT. DO ‘SVIDANIA!!! CIAO!!
12:11 am on April 11th, 2008
NOTHING WRONG with making money doing something you care about … as long as you are providing a product or service that people demonstrably want (because they will pay for it).
If you were using your position to hawk something without substance-value, it might be different.
(Classic example: the difference between selling a book, CD or other product to those of similar political persuasion … vs. becoming a campaign staff-member for a third-party candidate, and then taking a large salary from the contributions of those who donate expecting to see visible results (media coverage of campaign, vote totals, etc.) from their money … I know that scam all too well, having been swindled by it … several times!)
Since you are not, no problem with making a living at it!
12:19 am on April 11th, 2008
Kevin, Thanks for bringing this topic up! I am a personal trainer and like you know one expects me to give my services away for free. Over the last year I have been teaching classes on raw food (for free) and struggling with this issue. I am passionate about raw food and would love to be able to help more people. But the only way for me to do that is to begin to charge for my services.
I just want you to know how much I do appreciate all the amazing services you have and continue to provide! Keep up the exceptional work!
~Alicia~
12:28 am on April 11th, 2008
Hi Kevin,
I love your shows! They are full of good, FREE information. I learned about you from Natural News when you had the FREE summit which I found invaulable. I am just an ordinary person that believes in alternative choices. I feel so much better since starting this healthy lifestyle. I used to go to a regular doctor for what ever ailed me and they almost killed me. I am grateful for people who take the time (and it does take a lot of time)to help people just like me. Do not give much energy to what this person emailed you. You are doing a great service. I have never felt like I needed to purchase anything from you but would if I wanted to the same as I would if I went to a regular store. Most times I find buying on line to be less expensive than going to a regular store and it comes right to my front door.
Keep up the good work. Listen to your heart.
Alma
12:30 am on April 11th, 2008
Wow, Kevin.
Of COURSE you should charge money for the research and free web work you do!!
Duh.
If it doesn’t pay off immediately, oh well. It will pay off in one way or another…it is your passion…
Thanks for your ’stuff’
Wendy
12:40 am on April 11th, 2008
First, remember that if you are out in front, expect to dodge bullets coming at you from all directions.
Secondly, who gives anyone the right to judge anyone else (outside a court of law)?
Thirdly, as many pointed out, you don’t do “hard sell” (especially compared to a raw foodist whose work I love, but his hard sales pitches drive me nuts). But I accept this person, because he’s done quite well and firmly believes his success is rooted in hard-sales pitches. He has provided tons of great tips, some free, some for money, and I bless and thank him for it!
Fourth, you give away a lot of your time and work.
Lastly, for all of us who responded that we’ve gone through this, stop paying attention to those negative forces! As someone said, it’s their ego, it’s their jealousy.
Next time you get emails like this, or comments, delete them! The less time spent on them, the less power they have.
This is why people are so stressed and the planet is in peril. “Too many Hitlers” (as Elvis Costello wrote/sang in “Armed Forces.”)
I’ve been accused of coming on strong when I haven’t even tried to make money! You just can’t please everyone!
Some people think I’m pushy, but the majority LOVE my enthusiasm, passion, devotion for a long list of topics. I know I’ve given to the universe, and it’s up to me to monetize it.
More power to you! Bless you and thank you and forget the others! You inspire me to make money from my passions so I can continue acquiring knowledge and sharing it!
Remember, we can either try to deal with those who would destroy us, or reach out and work with those who will embrace us, support and give back to us.
The world is full of drama queens who take up more space/time than they deserve. But fortunately, there’s many of us who form a loving, appreciative community. But just like any community, any family, there’s always friction.
Let it go. Focus on the good and just maybe someday they will come to see you and all of us who answered as something they want to be involved in. It’s like the three little pigs. Let’s build nice, solid, brick walls of good work, and let the big bad wolf just try to blow us down!
People certainly have a lot of chutzpah! That’s balls, nerves, and so rude. To give someone a hard time for an online business? They are just jealous, insecure, nasty, unhappy people.
I’ve been around, I’ve seen all kinds. Took me a long time to finally realize it’s wasted effort to let these peeps “rain on my parade.”
Have a great life, everyone keep up the great work and best of all, namaste: let’s bless each other and be full of gratitude we can come together via the net.
It’s much more important to spend our time fighting those in Washington who want to end “net neutrality.” The real danger lies in the internet and phone companies who want to censor what we post and increase costs.
If we are gonna get active, that’s the fight worth fighting over! If you don’t know what I’m talking about, check it out. It’s been quieter since the Dems gained a few seats in Congress, but the minute the Republicans gain any seats, it’s gonna flare up again. And who knows if the Dems will support the public on this or not?
Let’s carefully pick our battles. Not with some powerless person out there, but with Congress or big biz who want to restrict our ability to do what we do.
Or those who want to regulate raw foods. You know they forced California Almond growers to heat all their almonds? We can’t buy truly raw organic almonds anymore. I could go on and on, so let’s focus on the those who have power to truly damage our health and the environment.
And if you think that anyone is gonna blog nasty things about anyone making money from selling anything online and you think anyone is gonna believe that person, I have a bridge to sell you. People do their due diligence these days!
12:44 am on April 11th, 2008
Yes Kevin!
I think it is OK! You are offering a service! I am 50 years old and cancer free for over one year now. I went with Natural Herbal cures or should I say detoxes and immune system builders. I refused the second more brutal round of chemo. I have learned plenty about what is really going into our health and food products and the truth about Big Pharma, Congress, and the FDA. Nutrition plays an important part in our well being.
I will be retiring in a few years and want to go into making a living as a Health care provider. I am going to start with my Herbology course and maybe I go all the way to a Naturopath.
Some people in the industry charge you for some things and not others. Sometimes it is a monthly fee to “subscribe” to the info. Some times nothing is free! Sometimes the info is free but the products are not.
It is like your own personal health care decisions to what you need to do for you! What works for some does not for all. If you can afford to give away all your info for free because you have a great thriving sales to live on or you are already wealthy then fine! If you are like the rest of us that need an income to pay the bills then you need to charge for your services.
I think maybe the comment Jacqueline used might be more correct, “it smells of jealousy”.
12:47 am on April 11th, 2008
I love this topic Kevin!
As someone who has spent a lifetime in “Health Martydom” I would like to shed a little bit of light on what I have come to understand as the definition of the “Natural Man” as spoken of in the Scriptures.
When God made everything we needed he knew that the Natural Man would seek to compete for the sake of profit. It was a logistical certainty. What make money tends to be that which prevails.
I have spent a lifetime in a form of Lymphology (because I was born into it) that focuses on empowering individuals to understand and facilitate the body’s life process, which translates to the healing process. Yet I am practically shamed by how little it seems we have going on. Today was marvelous because I helped more than a few people with One On One Mentoring. I do this for free however, I barely survive. I love helping people so much yet to be a true servant really does seem to require constant humility. I dream of it being the other way around though!!!
I have learned to be quite humble and why not? When you have the truth, I mean really have it, there is no turning your back on it! I am going to make that touch down and I am going to spike the ball too!
Karl West
President of the International Academy of Lymphology
12:48 am on April 11th, 2008
Like all those that have responded to your question, of course its OK to earn your keep doing what you are doing.. You are providing valuable information that has infact helped many people.
What isn’t OK is that there are entities such as big pharma and psychiarty that sell death and mahem by peddling their dangerous and ineffective treatments and medications; uppers, downers, antipsychotics, I think you get the picture… These drugs are often implicated in school shootings and other violent crimes.. And, get this, these treatments are meant to improve mental health, yeah right… Why then do big pharma get away with harming society and look at how much they get paid for it…!!!
Now that’s criminal… But then hasn’t gonverments used psychiatry and pahrmaceuticals as political tools to control the populations for quite some time? Perhaps this is one reason why nothing has been done about this situation….
So keep putting out your words of health wisdom, I enjoy reading them and between your emails and those from Mike Adams, The Health Ranger, I have become very enlightened on the whole health industry… Thank you!
Another good resource for information on the damage that psychiatry does is CCHR. Citizens Commision on Human Rights.. Have a look at their website for more info.
Hendrik, Perth Western Australia
12:51 am on April 11th, 2008
Kevin, I’m loving your show more all the time, and appreciate all you do freely very much. You must see, when you do good for others it comes back to you. But, on the martyr concept: I’ve been studing natural health since 1992, and it’s my observation that experts make a good income usually selling books, DVDs, and CDs, also seminars… Until recently they shared their info on the web in snipits which helps bring them fame and the greater ability to sell package deals!
I hunger for this knowlege, but it is getting harder to find it for free. I watch giving people who are already very successful in ways listed above, get greedy and turn to the inner circle “I’ve got a $ecret” wealth generating tactic, after years of freely sharing that same knowlege. Anyway it’s a trend I’m sad to see growing. The use of the web to sell, reaches countles people but Info isn’t covered by our evermore expensive health insurance that pays much for things that do not work. Peace
12:57 am on April 11th, 2008
I appreciate all the health information you provide, and hope you continue to do so. We need truthful information and I feel that is something you are giving us!
Excuse me, but don’t doctors get paid for giving health information?
1:05 am on April 11th, 2008
I have been a naturopath for 30 years. Of course I have charged for my clinical advice, I need to live, what’s wrong with that? But I have also worked for free where applicable. I have had a free newsletter for many years and I do free seminars. However, I sell my books at the seminars and gain patients. I think a balance between being paid and imparting knowledge is the way to go. I have never had a complaint. Whoever inferred it was wrong to make money has a problem, not you. Let it go.
1:22 am on April 11th, 2008
Everyone has said what needs to be said.
Someone needs to ask the health expert why he feels that way.
Judy
1:24 am on April 11th, 2008
I love your web page and the information I can get from it. I did have a challenge when I first paid for information because it wasnt the information that I thought I was going to get and I then had to fork out more money to buy something that was more in line with my personal needs. However I greatly enjoy listening to your interviews and I do think that you need to charge for certain things for how do you keep up the good work if you are going broke. Maybe when someone comes onto your Web page they fill in a need basis before buying a product rather than be overwhelmed with so much information that might not be what each person wants. Keep up the wonderful enthusiasm and information. Wish we had something like this in Australia.
Regards Frances
1:26 am on April 11th, 2008
Thank you et merci for your very nice show. I enjoyed your tips to get healthy and fit. Of course nobody works for free… some for more or less, but everybody has to pay his rent/mortgage . I love to watch your daily show bringing an additional 5 min. of fun in my life.
1:27 am on April 11th, 2008
Hi Kevin — may your tribe increase! Every health provider that I listen to in the Internet gives away a great deal of information BUT they also have their own products that they sell, whether it be food, supplements, non-toxic skin care products, etc. One can buy…or not buy…or find comparable items through research that is also provided free. I appreciate all the free information I’m am offered, as well as the trusted products they sell. You can’t please everyone all of the time! Thanks!
1:33 am on April 11th, 2008
Kevin,
You know you’re right. Your passion is endearing. Obviously the person who rose this issue for you doesn’t get it. Forunately, there are plenty of us who do and are willing to pay for whatever information that you have and we desire.
As for one of your previous posters; Alicia, please charge at least $100.00 for any raw food class you offer in the future. I’ve taken 3 classes over the last 2 years and have never paid less than $125.00.
Learning to be raw requires a commitment to learn the right way to do it and if people aren’t willing to pay you, then they probably aren’t that serious.
Just thoughts.
Good luck to you both,
Dena
1:40 am on April 11th, 2008
great question!!!
i have been doing healing work for 25 years.
since i first started some people have felt charging was wrong because it was a gift from god!!! well there are so many gifts that people get paid for like artists, musicians
car mechanics, doctors and shopkeepers..
what makes a person different because they
are receiving money for a service of health and well being? anyhow what it really is, is an exchange of energy.
money is no more then energy and what ever service we provide is energy.
hope i am making sense here!! thanks kevin
for all the wonderful services you provide
free or with an exchange of energy:)
oh ya, the ones who complain the most have the most money and those with limited income
never say a word and are grateful for having someone to turn to..
1:45 am on April 11th, 2008
Don’t fret!!!!Just do your thing. You are not advising spirituality, which people have different points of view about that. All information can come and go for any price, could be a smile..there is always some exchange..even a prophet he gets energy..good points so to speak because he gave.. and the good he has done for others go back to him.. so it is a Natural LAW of life. to give and receive so it is up to you how you want to do both, and it looks like to me that you are doing it in all forms.. good for YOU!
1:59 am on April 11th, 2008
A=A!
I like Jerry’s message (and the others, too)! Ayn Rand is AWESOME!
I am TOTALLY an Objectivist!
Atlas Sphere dot com is AWESOME!
Something’s VALUE is the price the market WILL BEAR ~ NOT what the market DOES bear.
Correct me if I’m wrong, Jerry, please.
Look at Black Market prices for chocolate, silk stockings, SPAM, scarce commodities during the war: That was their value at that time. It fluctuates.
You’re offering SERVICES we’re not inundated with, so scarcity could be seen to boost the value of your show. If there were no other options for the same information to be obtained freely, I’d say you were throwing the baby out with the bathwater by not making money with this. The fact is, there are various other venues for obtaining health information for free, so, charging would knock some viewers from here.
However, leaving it for free, even if it were the only free site of this kind, has the secondary (Dare some suppose the “hidden agenda”?) purpose of developing a “following” ~ folks who may then become more likely to purchase wares offered here.
My mind isn’t here ~ I’m just in from viewing a VHS of children with chest gun shot wounds, their throats slit by a parent getting back at the other parent, laying in their home, on the floor, dried blood ~ and NOT dried blood… massive amounts of cases like this… I came here for a moment of Good Ol’ Kevin before sleep… My mind’s not on this… Wish me well with the Sexual Assault Services training… it’s …. REAL.
In the end, it’s YOUR LIFE! Do as YOU see fit with it!
Seek advice, guidance…. counsel… But, make up your own mind about the things you will do with your own life’s time!
So far, so good!
“-)
2:07 am on April 11th, 2008
Hey Kevin, keep up the great energy and good work and know that how the market bears products or services should tell you whether assigning value to a product or service is an acceptable practice.
In our society, money is our bartering tool. It levels the playing field when one party wants a service or product from another party but does not have a service or product to barter with.
You do bring up an interesting point though and it is curious why some drawn to health can’t understand why money shouldn’t be exchanged. I’ve experienced this attitude in the ‘new-age’ community quite a bit as well.
You’re doing great Kevin. No need to wear any guilt.
2:28 am on April 11th, 2008
I don’t think there is any thing wrong with it but there are people who are trying to cheat people in the health industry and that makes people angry. Health is also a very big industry but I feel that Kevin is doing a good job and I am sure he need to eat and have a house too
3:48 am on April 11th, 2008
Hi Kevin
I wish to echo all that has been commented by Glenda Miller.
Thanks from me too!
3:57 am on April 11th, 2008
Kevin, I really appreciate your shows and
interesting way of speaking. You reap what you
sow, so whatever is freely given will return
in a multi blessing. You had to invest time
and money to learn what you share so you will
reap some money when it is most needed.
Thankyou for your generosity.
3:58 am on April 11th, 2008
Kevin, Keep up the good work. We obtain much free info from you. To be paid for other health info is a good balance.
Arohanui
Lana
4:49 am on April 11th, 2008
Hey Kevin,
You are doing just fine in fact I really hope you make ka-zillions. I applauded you for doing what you believe in deeply sharing your passion. I want and need to be a part of that.
In my book there is nothing wrong with earning a living or even getting wealthy from sharing and providing others with options that empower them. You are doing a great service.
Look around at how much money has and still is being made by providing unhealthy choices!
Your doing fine I LOVE IT! Keep on sharing and caring! That’s my take on it.
I see you sharing a truly needed and valuable service we have a whole nation of people that are looking for you. You share from your heart with passion and it is infectious.
Rod
4:56 am on April 11th, 2008
Kevin, I think it’s perfectly ok for people to offer health information for sale on-line. I also think it’s perfectly ok for people who have made such purchases to criticize it in freely-available blogs or newsletters on-line. I appreciate your honesty in your newsletter and published information. I wouldn’t take nasty comments about making money in health info personally. They don’t apply to you!
5:11 am on April 11th, 2008
Thank you so very much, Kevin, for all of the wonderful, powerful and very applicable info you give us every day.
A little advice though…
We have got a saying where I live (Europe):
‘High trees catch a lot of wind’
There will always be people critisizing what you do, specially when you’re doing it well!
If you have a healthy respect for the LoA, Kevin, you’ll be concentrating on what kind of wind you want to be receiving…
It’s not always easy, because some comments cut to the quick, but that is more often than not the intention of such criticism!
So Kevin, this is a present for you this time; please go to http://www.emofree.com and enjoy this great technique, which will help you get rid of the impact of negative comments you once in a while receive.
We wish you endless abundance in FINANCE, health, love and joy!
5:25 am on April 11th, 2008
I’m totally with you on this, having experienced the same. I am a Hypnotherapist. My “attacker” takes her salary from the criminal injuries board. Why does she not work for free? Many thanks for all the great info and I enjoy your energy. Wishing you well. Janet
5:28 am on April 11th, 2008
Hi…
I’ve had this dilemma all my professional life… all people who are giving good value need to be able to provide lots of information without charge… but! If you continue to give things out for nothing… many people tend to undervalue it — e.g. I offer a free course and many people have signed up for it but very few have actually done it — a small percentage compared to those who signed up for it. But my paid services… that’s a different ball game. People who pay for my expertise take it more seriously and therefore get more out of it. And people who provide services and information to benefit the community at large need to earn a living…
I love what you to Kevin…!
Jeanne
http://www.goalsnaspirations.com
5:44 am on April 11th, 2008
Hi Kevin,
You need to keep in mind that a large proportion of people that are drawn to natural health sites have been burnt by Big Pharma…
Huge, powerful corporations whose only motivation is a sickening greed, leaving a trail of death and devastation behind.
The world is desperate for reliable info, provided by people with integrity. Oh God how we need people with integrity…
The absolute last thing we need is an element of greed in natural health and exploitation there as well.
The question people need to ask themselves is why am I in this business?
Is it purely to make money, or do I care at all for the well being of my fellow man?
Do I actually want to make a difference and improve a miserable situation?
If money is the overall motivation, perhaps drug dealing would be a better option..
I’m not advocating martyrdom…just plain old fashioned decency and values. There is a difference…a little bit of compassion. The business benefits will follow once people trust.
If someone is in possesion of info that can benefit people and keep them safe from being exploited and killed off by Pharma, it is their moral duty and obligation to share that….freely.
All basic info should be free.
There is nothing wrong with selling extras such as CD’s and DVD’s for those who want and can afford them.
But is the basic right of every person on this planet to have access to reliable, honest basic info.
Witholding that and only providing it to those in privileged position who can afford it, is criminal…
Where must they turn to afterall in this world full of deception and halftruths? The pharma and corporation sponsored media? I don’t think so.
You are brave to raise this issue. It says a lot about you.
Best wishes
Steph Gatchell
5:48 am on April 11th, 2008
hey kevin,
you’re doing an awesome job providing your viewers with a bounty of information. we’re all on your side and appreciate your passion for the information that you share.
peace
5:58 am on April 11th, 2008
Kevin,
Don’t let it get to you – what that health expert said to you doesn’t even make any sense to me.
I appreciate what I get for free (many people, sadly, don’t) and the free information I have gotten from you and from other sources has really changed my life — I mean *really*. I’ve got another 74 pounds to lose but I’ve also lost 74 pounds so far (halfway there!!) and I couldn’t have done it without information that was offered to me for free . . .
BUT
. . . it wasn’t until I purchased some information that my health really started taking off. And I don’t regret a penny spent. And I am thankful that I was able to buy that information. And I will buy information again in the future, I’m sure of it.
Heck, every time I buy a cookbook I’m buying health information. Why should a cookbook cost money and a lifestyle book not? It’s not just about the food (though that’s an important component!) it’s about how we live our lives, every moment, every day. I don’t care if it’s recipes for food or recipes for thought or recipes for moving my body or whatever – it took time and effort and thought and research and physical resources to put together those life recipes and those inputs ought to be rewarded.
And, to continue with the analogy of food recipes, I can get recipes all day long online for free. Some of them are really great! But I still buy cookbooks and I would never expect someone to give me their cookbook for free, just because there are free recipes online.
There is a place for free information and a place for paid information and both are valuable and I am thankful that you provide both. What you offer – both free and paid – is of great value. Keep up the great work and I hope you are being well rewarded for it because you definitely deserve to be.
6:05 am on April 11th, 2008
Hey Kevin,
Money is just another form of energy and everything happens for a reason. I wonder what lesson the universe has for you with this one? Often we don’t know the answer for months or years! It seems that this person has hit a nerve. I wonder why? It’s not for me to know anyhow.
As the owner of a large online forum I can tell you that many people are blown away by what you give away for free. Organizing the Raw Summit is just amazing and to offer it for free was awesome.
We have students on our site who are so grateful to you because they were able to listen and learn. And I know more than one person whose lives have changed massively from it.
Positive life changing advice for free? What kind of an evil selfish person would do that? LOL Hmmmm.
Kev you and Ann Marie are doing great things. I bought the raw summit because I knew I would want to listen to it over and over and I’m grateful to you for offering it. I love it and have listened to it over and over.
I too have been accused of doing my business just for the money. Not so. I do it because I love it. Money is needed to keep it and my household running so it does make a profit. I hope to run free retreats one day for those who cannot afford it and so it needs to make a profit.
Just keep on going Kevin. You are great!
xoxoxo
6:10 am on April 11th, 2008
Hi kevin…
Having been on a self-healing journey for some time…I have often worried that I am still a work in progress…and I need to be some how perfect & certain that I have the proof of what I offer is good enough etc. But I no longer beleive that to be true…I came across something..somewhere…words to the effect…’as long as you are bringing value to anothers life…then that is service…and of course…duh..reality check…we all need a livelihood…we are all in this together…we all need to earn a living etc. Better to earn it in an inspired / truthful / honest & heartfelt REAl way…that is real work…and I would most definitely say far more real than many socially accepted jobs out there…that are so caught up in and feeding the very collective unconcious madness that we are trying to unravel.For those who walk their talk & have the inspiration/ energy / motivation / enthusiasm & desire to share it with others then that is what its all about….and people are not sheep, unless that is still where they are at, and what they still need etc.they have choice…as to whome & what inspires them…they can take it or leave it…we attract what we need to attract & pass by the rest by.Admittedly there is to much info out there…and to many conflicting messages etc. but if those peolpe that are offering their services their uniqueness are living & testing the very things that they are attempting to share with you, then how can that be knocked! It can’t, in my eyes…its real…god bless them…So good luck to you Kevin & others…may we all be inspired to earn a living in being our own unique selves…and promoting what we believe brings value to our lives and hopefully will to others! Proper inspired instruments!
Beauty-full filled day to You all.
Makaela
6:12 am on April 11th, 2008
How are you supposed to survive if you’re not making an income from what you do, and love to do??? I have been struck by this attitude in many of the ‘movements’ – environment, animal rights etc, and then the minute there is a chance to make any cash, the big slick guns move in and the money goes OUT of the system. Why should you be poor if you care?
Also, how much more of an impact you can have when you’ve got the cash behind you. Kevin, you’re offering shows FOR FREE, writing this blog for FREE, I think that’s ENOUGH martyrdom already going on with you. You’re sincere, you care, you’re honest and balanced – that’s all I personally ask for.
Keep doing a great job.
6:20 am on April 11th, 2008
I truly believe you have to pass comments like this by…they are ludicrous & worthless..and say more about them than oneself…they are just manifestations of our own doubt or collective doubt etc. and not to be engaged with…mere distractions along the way & passing as eveything else is…stic to your guns & as long as you remain true to yourself etc. you cannot go wrong….comments like this are meant to distract us…put us off course…and therefore have had theor desired effect…impermanence as Buddhism might say…we have enough of our own limiting dramas to distract us without engaging in anothers. For me..I attempt to remind myself of this & do not let these things into my radar…they are no longer part of my reality! Yeah !
All is well…all is always well…despite it seeming otherwise..at times…all passing in the grand scheme of things…impermanent…
6:24 am on April 11th, 2008
Spot on Jenny Lens…lovely words!
6:42 am on April 11th, 2008
I’m surprised to hear that making money in the health industry is an issue. Especially when compared to what you get for your time and money when you go to some conventional doctors. When I went to my first raw foods class and the instructor asked for comments, I told her she wasn’t charging us (the students) enough money for all the time, effort, research, organization and materials she was providing.
6:56 am on April 11th, 2008
If something is free, people put no value in it. If you pay your own hard earned money for something, you will value that and read it or use the product. A free bottle of supplements will end up in the trash. People think it has no value, if free.
I knew a nutritionist and chiropracter who treated his sister free, gave her supplements free. It had no value to her, she wouldn’t take them, stayed sick.
7:01 am on April 11th, 2008
Hey Kevin,
Thanks so much for your fire and passion. I think it is a great idea to have a monetary exchange for health products and services… AS LONG AS YOU ARE COMING FROM THE RIGHT PLACE! Yes, there are scams in the health industry. A discerning person will know a quality practitioner from someone who just wants to sell something. I’m working on a nutrition DVD because I want to make real information accessible to a large audience. I want lots of sales!! In the past I may have been ashamed to say this so bluntly, but the truth is that it is for a good cause- the health and healing of our planet and the people here. Check it out on my website if you are so inspired~ http://www.spectrumhealthconsulting.com
Much love and appreciation, Susie Beiler
7:02 am on April 11th, 2008
I think you should get paid for the service you provide. You take the time to research, study and speak to those that are on the cutting edge of alternative health.
The bigger issue you are really dealing with is the belief system of people. Many truly believe that ONLY if the FDA says it is ok or their “favorite doctor” then everyone else is a “snake oil” salesman as you stated. We all have the responsibility to dig and research the information for ourselves and I love the fact that you bring in the experts so that we can have the BEST information available. Those of us that choose not to chemically treat ourselves need to PAY these people to continue the work that they do. I would much prefer someone tell me that I need to drink fresh vegetable juice and include more greens in my diet than someone that wants me to pop a pill that has a list of adverse side effects worse than the problem I am treating.
Kevin, keep doing what you are doing and those of us that want your services will pay without complaint. We are always free to say no thank you.
7:26 am on April 11th, 2008
Kevin;
I appreciate your discussion on this topic, as I appreciate all of the information you disseminate. And I don’t disagree with you at all; I would just like to point out a factor on the flip side of your statement. As you pointed out, when you buy a widget, usually the better widgets are more expensive. Well, if need be, we can usually make do and live our lives without a widget. But health care is a necessity for everyone, and when good health care is priced out of reach for most people so that they are denied access to decent care, it becomes more of a moral issue than denying access to a plasma TV. Wealthy people have choices, from yachts to TVs to health care. Poor folks don’t.
I work primarily with the elderly on fixed incomes and every single one of them is stuck in the mire of mediocre (or worse) health care, where they are on multiple prescribed drugs, with multiple illnesses, both of which (drugs and illnesses) increase constantly, feeding off of each other. And they have NO choices. This, to me, is criminal.
I agree health care providers should make money, just like the next guy, but we should want to give some of it back; spread it around a little, provide some quality services where they have always been denied. The better we are at what we do, the more obligation and opportunity we have to make a meaningful contribution.
Thanks for the opportunity to put in my two cents.
7:27 am on April 11th, 2008
Should I make money with online health
YES
However it is a sensitive issue, peoples health is a fearful subject and there are potential problems if you are selling something that most folk have settled views on
1.interfering with the status quo – people don’t want their boat rocked – are you trying to say their doctor doesn’t know best?
2.Kevin and his ilk have a different approach from the usual folk who have a vested (monetary) interest in so called health and medicine matters – is it possible there are people who actually do care about people being well and happy?
3.selling good health has always existed we gotta get people to realise that paying up front for information or monthly for medical insurance or afterwards when ill health is manifest is merely a matter of when, why and how you want to pay
4.the selling of information is the way the internet works whereas the general way of selling health is still with powders, potions & poisons that people physically relate to.
5.jealous rivalry continually tries to undermine even the most honourable work so there will always be people who say there is a the wrong approach
6.there are hypocrites that talk of integrity and authenticity while short selling and ripping off their clients under the guise of compassion and care
Kevin you know working with your heart DOES NOT mean you should go have an empty wallet.
8:08 am on April 11th, 2008
Of course it’s ok to make money in this way, as long as the health advisor is honest and truly believes in his/her products. It’s fantastic that there are individuals out there who are so passionate about health that they’re putting all their time into educating others about it. I especially admire the people who thoroughly research their information and find ‘alternative’ drug-free solutions to every day maladies. Good for them!! Of course they should be rewarded in a monetary way for their efforts. They deserve more money that the ‘doctors’ who simply don’t have the time or inclination to find out about a patient and their diet or history.
I’m quite surprised that this person has written to you Kevin as you are obviously a most generous person and only have other’s best interests at heart! Good luck for the future and just ignore those kinds of emails from now on!
Nora (N.Irish)
8:27 am on April 11th, 2008
I don’t agree that people attacking you for making money ‘out of health’ are coming from ego and jealousy. It’s completely fine to make money out of anything ‘between consenting individuals’ and some people don’t consent. However ugly their words feel, thats essentially what they are saying. If we are to ‘namaste’ there needs to be no exclusions for a peaceful, healed world. We can choose not to be in their faces, but as long as we hold the thought that people who don’t share our outlook are ‘ a string of negatives’ then we are mediating ‘back’ a similar quality of energy to the one that we criticise. Underneath the attacks on people making money out of ‘health’- there often lies a deeply ragged sense of self, insecurity and unconscious doubt over their capacity to be trully well and able to receive themselves. Ill health can ofter harbour resistance, guilt and confused perspective, a Catch 22.
I sense there is also a quaint subtext in the notion that making money out of health should not be.This is that ‘everyone should have good health’ anyway- typified in a classic response to diagnosis ‘why me?’ We have poisoned the world in so many ways, those collective toxins help to pollute thought; and poor nourishment heightens the likelihood of twisted emotions. Perhaps a deep ancestral memory of how things could have been rebels against health costing anything. So although the antagonists can be a pain in the particulars-I think its an idea not to personalise them but to’compassionately’ take note of that aspect of them as a symptom of a collective dis-ease, then continue heartfully with what you are doing so well.
The Health Industry isn’t the only province where you are expected to do things for ‘nothing’. For years I was told I was SO LUCKY to be so talented, as though through this ‘good fortune’ I OWED those skills for free (penance for being blessed:) Underneath those expectations others had, was simply a diminished and inaccurate sense of self. I bought into this a lot, lived on a shoestring and when I became seriously ill, remember feeling traumatised at not being able to afford the help I needed. I never tore anyone’s head off for making money out of health and healing. I recognise the absolute ‘rightness’ of that- but I also recognise the complex conundrum for some people when a deep wound needs healing and means are prohibitively slim.
Unfortunately- there are so many hyper-priced scams in sophisticated packaging these days- that it is easy to become sceptical- and sometimes that scepticism overflows towards people of integrity.
What matters most is what feels comfortable and true to you. There are so many people that celebrate what you do, and are happy and able to pay. Meanwhile those that are not your afficionados, will hopefully find their own, blessed way and healing. Life is diversity.
For me giving isn’t synonymous with martyrdom, but a feeling of martyrdom comes from unresolved giving- out of ‘ought’ rather than completely genuine, spontaneous willing.
If you respond painfully to accusations over receiving, it’s also an invitation to explore any personal unhealed issues over allowing yourself to recieve and believing you deserve to.
Keep doing what you love- and it will all be groovy.
x s
8:37 am on April 11th, 2008
Kevin,
When I meet people who share their knowledge, strength and hope I am grateful and appreciative. This is what makes my life enjoyable, sharing with people of generous spirit. I alwasy expect to pay for what I receive, nothing is free in the univers.
It may be persons who are interested in charging for what you share, maybe these are the ones who are being critical of your generous spirit?
Ava
8:45 am on April 11th, 2008
Hi Kevin,
I don’t have much to add other than this. If you provide a valuable service to people that helps change their lives there is nothing wrong with charging a reasonable fee for your service.
Simple as that.
Thanks for doing what you do.
8:55 am on April 11th, 2008
my answer to your question kevin is YES! irene beaumont. WEST YORKSHIRE UK.all the best.
9:17 am on April 11th, 2008
I totally agree that health experts should be paid. I’m a nutritional therapist and I constantly get requests to hold lectures, but when I ask for a fee people get shocked. How is it that all professions are paid for their time, but for some reason if I want to talk about health I have to do it for free! It’s ridiculous. I, like anyone else, expect to be paid for my time, effort, knowledge, and experience. It’s just common sense. Thanks Kevin for addressing this very important issue and bringing it to the forefront!
9:22 am on April 11th, 2008
I believe that in any industry, health, education or the most “trivial” one, a good service merits appropriate monetary (or equivalent) compensation.
A reader down below referred you to Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shrugged … I agree with that reader.
We should never be ashamed for requesting compensation for great service, or expecting anything for free.
Work hard, reap the benefits of your work, and enjoy! … regardless of the industry!
Daniela
9:28 am on April 11th, 2008
I can’t resist chiming in here with the rest of these good people. Kevin…let’s consider the source of where your “attack” came from. I imagine that person has some sort of personal conflict or has been wounded by this issue in the past somehow. Perhaps they are supported by a trust fund or are otherwise independently wealthy and this enables them to not need to make an additional source of income in their health business. Whatever the case may be, you and other health experts obviously well supported here in this community of readers and followers. No matter what we do in life, the critic will always be with us. If there is anything you can learn from that person’s input, I know you’ll consider it, because you’re that kind of guy. Just know you’re loved, brother!
9:30 am on April 11th, 2008
Hi Kevin,
When I was working as an M.D., I had a genuine desire to help people, yet no one questioned whether I should get paid or not. There are great M.D.s out there and there are scary bad M.D.s out there. Some of them educate patients in ways that are of benefit. Some of them give damaging, even lethal, advice. Yet…they all get paid!
So what’s the difference? Because you are in an alternative health field, you shouln’t earn a comfortable living? That’s absurd. There are legitimate alternative practitioners out there and there are disreputable ones – just like in every other field on earth!
There’s nothing wrong with being a good business person, as long as you’re heart is in the right place.
The bottom line for me is that EVERYONE should earn a comfortable living using the gifts they were given and doing what they love to do. We’d live in a much healthier world if that were the case. If someone happens to have a healing gift and a penchant for online business, more power to her/him.
Best of luck to you, Kevin. May abundance always flow through your life.
Kara
9:33 am on April 11th, 2008
The very same people who are gonna tell you “c’mon, this stuff should be free” are the ones who also wouldn’t care or listen to what you have to say if it was free! Isn’t human nature a funny thing???!!!
9:50 am on April 11th, 2008
Kevin,
Keep up the good work. My son-in-law brought up this very issue. I tried to talk to him about it, but the responses I see above do a much better job. Thank you for taking the chances that you do.
Anita
10:02 am on April 11th, 2008
Free?
Why do folks get caught on that term… name me one thing that doesn’t cost! Your show costs you in terms of time & research- you’ve just elected to pay the price of that effort.
There is NOTHING out here in terms of goods & services that doesn’t cost. It’s HOW WE WSH TO PAY that defines us.
The person eating the SAD (Standard American Diet) pays heavily for it… they just have a delayed reckoning.
You as a provider payed the price for learning the information that you did… you pay to get it out there.
And it’s not all about the money (bits of paper- who gets hung up on that?!) I’m talking TIME, ENERGY, DEDICATION… the things that TRUELY have value.
When a person wants “free” they are hurting themselves. They are attempting to remove their responsiblity & place it on the shoulders of another.
Two=fold why this is flawed:
1- You have to value the impact to your health that product or service provides; if not you are wasting the provider’s time & your own.
2- By committing your dollars, time, energy you are making a commitment to YOURSELF & accepting personal accountabilty. When did personal empowerment become anything but a positive?
It is victim thinking at it’s wost to leave it to someone else to dictate the quality of life you will have… I don’t give someone else ownership of me & I don’t recommend it for anyone else.
You pay for all that is in your life, I believe the cost is far less for health than sickness. It’s quite a bargain to be healthy & I have no issues paying my own way.
10:30 am on April 11th, 2008
Kevin, As I sit here drinking my green smoothie I just want to say I love everything you do! You give such great advice without being boring. I’ve never felt that you are a “salesman” trying to push a product on me. You make the rawfood lifestyle and even exercise fun. I hope you reap many rewards for all the good that you do. Wishing you love, laughter and much success.
10:36 am on April 11th, 2008
Hi Kevin,
I was actually wondering how you have the time to do all that you do for free and still make a living.
You probably don’t need much sleep or down time.
I don’t know what health expert emailed you, but I know it wasn’t Joseph Mercola. He has built an empire. And with the possible exception of the price he charges for some of the products he sells (sometimes higher than I think need be, but not always), I am so thankful for all the information that he gives out for free. Even if one has very little money to spend, a person can learn enough from his web site to restore their health. What a gift!
I am glad I found your “show”. Don’t exactly know how I did… through an email I guess. And I’m also glad you live in CT. People like you, with your energy and passion, are the only hope for the health of the world.
I take care of my own health, wholistically. I can do that because of information I have been able to gather from the internet: web sites, forums, and products that I have learned about and bought. Many of those products I still buy from these websites, some I buy locally. I am eternally grateful for the free information and I am happy that the products I need are available for purchase. It has changed my life.
I try to tell my circle of friends and family about this wonderful, wholistic approach to health. Very few will take the responsibility for their own health… they need that MD to tell them what to do. But the ones who will, have reaped the rewards of better health.
I would like to become even more involved in what I call eating and living the way God intended. I would like to earn my living this way because it is something I really believe in. If you can make your living doing something you believe in, (and we all need to make a living), you can devote your whole life to it and really make a significant contribution… and really help people.
Best to you,
Gail
10:37 am on April 11th, 2008
Kevin, nothing more need be said. Yes its o.k. to make money selling health related advice and products as long as you do it with proper research (like you do). I hate hearing” you need to eat …..,” followed the next month with ” don’t eat ….”. You don’t give out info, at least as far as I can tell, that you haven’t done proper research on. Keep giving us good info.
Toni
10:38 am on April 11th, 2008
There isn’t much left for me to say that has not been addressed by previous readers. I will just add that I love you, I love the work that you are doing, I think there is great value to what you offer, I am inspired by your messages and shows, and I am happy to pay you for any products that you choose to sell that fit my lifestyle.
In health,
-Scott
http://www.therawdessert.com
10:46 am on April 11th, 2008
Absolute nonsense…..I’m preaching to the choir here but our system of free enterprise thrives on the basis of some form of payment for the provision of services (legal, health, educational, entertainment, etc.). We pay for the services we want and/or need and can decline to avail ourselves of those we don’t require,desire or can’t afford. All professionals should be encouraged to perform pro bono services but not to the exclusion of remuneration as a part of one’s livelihood.
10:47 am on April 11th, 2008
Look this e-mail that you received just simply holds no credibility in this countryand world today. You give so much information away for free, first of all. Secondly, today’s “disease care system” is falling apart literally. People are loking for infrmation that works for them in order to stay healthy becasue the status quo US health system is failing miserably. If what you have for sale does not appeal to people or you are not able to get it out to enough people, you will not suceed in your business. This is what the US mainstream health care system is looking at right now. When the report came out several years ago that people were spending 27 billion in cash for traditional health care and 29 billion for “alternative health care”,it turned alot of heads in the health care field. They wanted a chunk of the cash. That is when you started seeing Tai Chi, yoga and stress reduction classes at hospitals…for a fee! Soon after that is when Dr. OZ became well known and he is not putting out all standard medical information. Why? People want it and are willing to pay for it. I don’t doubt that Dr. OZ wants people to be healthy, but has he economically benefited? My guess, and it is a guess only, yes! No martyrs noted in any of the above examples. We are losing too many medical/heahthcare rights in this country as it is.
Look at Jack LeLane…he has been criticized for years for his advice and his selling of exercise equipment. Who’s laughting now…Jack at 93 years and fully functional…most of his critics are not alive to see his success.
You go for it, you give away more free information than most healthcare providers even consider giving. This vibe you were sent stands on no ground in my book, not healthcare and not in the capitlistic experiment that America is…..
All the best to you! Tammy
10:53 am on April 11th, 2008
Listen, this attitude of not OK to make money is just ridicules. Look at it realistically. Everyone needs to make a living. We have live expenses; rent, mortgages, food, insurance, auto… So you need to make money. Now if you are a health expert wanting to help people with the knowledge and experience you have, it would only make sense to make that your source of income. If you have to work a day job pumping gas or sitting behind a desk in some office somewhere working for some one else, how much time energy and focus do you have left for those who are dependent on your health coaching / teaching… I spend all day researching, reading, experimenting and practicing my raw food business, website and blog to make sure I offer the best information and material for all those who patronize my efforts. There is not enough time in a day to keep up with all I do and none of this would happen if I had a day job. I would much prefer to get paid for what I am doing and dedicate my time as Kevin does to giving you all the best of what we offer. The other ridicules notion is the fear of being rich! And I mean really really rich. Let me ask you something. How many people can you help if you are too broke to help yourself? Really, how many people can you help if you are broke? How many people would you help if you were rich? How much could you contribute if you were really really really rich? I hear so many politically correct, self righteous people say they don’t eat raw and organic because it is too expensive. So instead they by cheap crap that feeds and supports the very thing they are fighting against. Organic may be too expensive to you but if you got off your blinded horse made some freakin money it wouldn’t be. Organic farmers are way underpaid and we should be paying even more for what they do. If you are so politically correct, it is your responsibility to make enough money to support the very thing you believe in and are fight for. How much good could you do for the world if you had money, if you were rich, really rich? I would much prefer I make Kevin Gianni really really rich then Donald Trump. Kevin would do great things, amazing things for the world if he were really rich. He is energetic, motivated, and active and his heart / intentions are in the right place. You should send him donations at least once a month for all he is doing and what he would be doing if he had more resources. Do you know what his computer cost are, his internet connection, site hosting fees, email service frees, programmers fees, all his equipment, class and course fees, air fare and hotel for his courses all to learn more and educate himself so he can bring you all this amassing web content. FOR FREE? Are you nuts? He paid a lot for it shouldn’t you pay him in return? Many activist types sit on at home broke and complaining about how messed up things are and have no power to change it. If you care about the future at all, it is your responsibility to be rich. You can’t do didly when you are poor! I want to be rich because I have things I want to do to help the world, help people and contribute and let me tell you, it has been really tuff without the money to do so. I want to make videos to educate and share knowledge but my camera is broken and I can’t afford a new one. I want to upgrade my site to compete with the likes of the Food Network and Martha Stuart but I am to broke. I want to hit the main stream with raw foods and alternative health with information, products, coaching programs, retreats, vacations, clinics, spas and TV shows but I need to get rich to do it. So where are you going to put your money? My money goes to Kevin and those like him, not McDonalds or my Family Doctor. It comes down to the old saying; you are ether for us or against us. Which are you?
11:10 am on April 11th, 2008
If I were to have a contractor do some work on my house, I expect to pay him for his knowledge and his services. If I were to have someone to do some “work” on my “house”, being my physical body, I expect to pay him for his knowledge and his services. Those who are out there providing great health care have taken the time, effort, money, etc. to get an education in that field. Why are they to be treated any different than those who are not in the health field. One can be very passionate about helping others, but bottom line, they still have to make a living to support themselves and their loved ones.
I do love the free info as well though! Your show really ROCKS! I love the variety you put out. I love your enthusiasm! I like hearing yur voice and seeing you in action, as opposed to reading an article. I know this takes time. Time to figure out what the subject matter will be, time to research it, and time to actually record it. I appreciate what you do very much, even more so because you do it for free. A BIG THANKS to you. Lynn
11:12 am on April 11th, 2008
Hi Kevin ~
The can of worms comes from this: IF one has to PAY for health information, and pay MORE for the BEST health information, then optimal health is only accessible to those with adequate funds to afford that level of health. While I don’t want health experts to bankrupt themselves to provide us all with free products, information, and service, I do recognize that the poorest of us may even need MORE guidance and support than those with extra means. Who will provide it? Or do those people get left behind, simply because they cannot pay?
As a real, living example, I know of a single mother of three kids, who cares greatly about the health of her family. Truly, she could use a library of books on health, an abundant supply of fresh, healthy, organic food, a few carefully chosen supplements, a bunch of appliances (or a chef) that make eating healthfully easier, a personal trainer to come in and exercise the whole family, a greener home without toxic building materials in it (in a neighborhood without industrial pollutants), a water purifying system, part-time childcare assistance to lower her stress level, a good physician, access to the latest useful health studies, and a staff of experts to help her sort out the good information from the bad. What is actually within her means? A few outdated nutrition books from the library, a cheap old blender from a garage sale, non-organic packaged noodles and rice (the cheapest food per calorie), and a mother who will watch the kids for an afternoon per week, and nothing else.
The point is – nobody expects health experts to be “martyrs”, but health and valuable health information should be freely available to ALL of us who need or want it. We, as a civilized culture, should be providing an infrastructure where those who provide health services, products, and information are supported financially, and in exchange provide them without bias to everyone. Vibrant living should be a RIGHT, and not a privilege.
11:13 am on April 11th, 2008
As most of the other posts have said, there is nothing wrong with getting paid for helping people get healthier. Some people are too busy to find accurate info on their own. For us “truth” junkies, it comes natutal. If we taught music, wouldn’t someone pay for lessons?
Thanks! Jessica
11:18 am on April 11th, 2008
GREAT Topic!
I envy your ability to speak your mind and do what you are rather than letting what you do define who you are and if your capable of profiting from that with good intentions at heart all the more power to you.
I’ve got an AMAZING job that challenges my mind in which I profit from greatly but my mind wanders from time to time and I fixate on a ‘career’ in which I could help people like you do. The drawback to that would be the very subject you’ve touched on today (yesterday) that you can’t “help” people in the health industry and profit from it. I’m aware that it’s possible and you’ve proven that very point so following your passion and trusting your heart/intuition will lead to success in whatever terms you define be it monetary or not.
Cheers,
Jen (Canada)
11:18 am on April 11th, 2008
I get the same thing about my business, which is assisting people in their spiritual growth. Many think I should be doing it for free. I totally don’t get it. If I take the time to educate myself, to do all the work (and pay all the people) necessary to keep a business going, and do my own spiritual evolution work, why should I not receive value back in exchange for assisting others? That value is not always money but in this world today, money IS our form of barter.
Health information is pretty freely available online. But if people want specialized training, coaching, dvds or cds they can listen to over and over etc, I see no reason they shouldn’t pay for it. Now sometimes the fees are very high and seem outrageous, but most of the time reasonable products and assistance can be found.
11:21 am on April 11th, 2008
Your a little too energetic. Seriously, calm down. And I don’t really care if you make money in the health industry. I think the health expert who emailed you is retarded.
11:57 am on April 11th, 2008
Kevin: You’re 100% on the money! The only way we can continue to get the best advice from the best experts is if they’re making money. Everyone has to support themselves and their families, and we’re better off if they can do it doing something they are passionate about, as you so obviously are! Profits are not evil unless they’re gained dishonestly.
You’re also right that the people in history who’ve chosen to stand out from the crowd and cause people to look at things in a new way have been ridiculed until they’re proven right. Don’t let those people dissuade you from your path! Thank you for all you do to educate us about our health, and please keep up the great work.
12:03 pm on April 11th, 2008
Kevin, I definately think that truth and knowledge should be free and spread as far & wide as possible.However the tools of the trade, whatever they my be; herbs,treatments,special items that help to instill good health should be paid for.And in the case of such as being asked to publicly speak or travel to aid a sick person in recovery efforts-I think that one should be paid for their services also. However on the occassion that someone in grave circumstances needs help & can prove their need,perhaps they should be given what God has promised us all. Compassion & Mercy & the help we are requesting regardless of our ability to pay.I’m also studying to become a Master Herbologist and would love for you to check out Dr. John R. Christopher the father of Natural Healing & the school which I’m attending was started by him in 1959. “The School of Natural Healing”.Please keep up the Good work and never keep quiet,as we all know the squeeky wheel gets oiled!
12:31 pm on April 11th, 2008
Kevin,
Thank you for bringing up this important issue. There certainly does seem to be this expectation in the health and healing world and it’s not right. The bottom line is value. The services you provide are of extreme value to those who VALUE their health. If someone doesn’t really value their health then they will not want to pay for it, or they will make you wrong for collecting any type of compensation. It’s ridiculous. What you bring to the world is of value. It takes your personal time, knowlege, and your own operating expenses I am sure. I don’t know why some people don’t realize this.
12:41 pm on April 11th, 2008
Hi Kevin,
Education, mentoring, teaching, mothering, all have always been involved in a two way sharing whether it be monetary, or bartering of service, or love and caring unconditionally. There comes a point in your life where you act from the wisdom within and there is no need to apologize for earning a living sharing what you have researched and learned.
I for one am grateful for all of the free information available and all of the websemianrs and books that are easily purchased that allow me to research and gain knowledge that is helping me improve my health and that of my family.
When you go to a yoga class you pay your instructor, when you attend a QiGong class you pay your instructor, your accupuncturist, your dentist, your grocer, on and on. There is always an exchange.
Thank you for your raw food semiars, your postings your recipes and your committment.
12:49 pm on April 11th, 2008
Hi Kevin,
Yes I think it is OK to make money in this industry by providing people with GOOD health care information. We live in a capitalistic society. This is what we agree to do. One provides a service and others agree to pay. I wonder if the person who sent you the negative email thinks its ok for pharmaceutical companies to charge for their BAD information. Leah
12:58 pm on April 11th, 2008
As a wellness educator, energy healer & world activist, I have heard the same things from “other” so called experts. What makes someone an expert in their field is not a bunch of letters after ones name, but informed knowledge from all sources and also its application in daily life to ascertain its validity. It appears to me that people like ourselves who are impassioned about wellness are a threat to medical corporatism that pervades the mindset of almost every Dr., psychologist, nutritionist, et al because our principles are aligned with nature. I am finding that experts are slamming the door because in their shallow mindset there is now competition…instead of cooperation that is an abundant mindset. People like us are reaching the masses in ways that they never could because we apply the wellness principles to our personal lives. How many Dr.’s do you know that smoke & eat poorly, nutritionists that are obese and financial planners that are bankrupt? I say make money doing what you and because you love it, you learn as much as possible and extend that wisdom to others. It does not take a genius to understand that sound nutrition enlivens the body, heals & nurtures it, but it does takes a certain personality in its own genius way to share that wisdom with others so that it actually may catch on to help enrich others lives. Thanks for being such a person.
In Lighted Companionship,
Alisa Battaglia
1:00 pm on April 11th, 2008
Yes, it is okay to make money. You have spent time in research and put together information to cause one to have better health if they choose to take charge of their lives.
1:11 pm on April 11th, 2008
1. Physicians, Therapists, Teachers all get paid for their advice and teaching. Knowledge and schooling costs money. Everybody has to make a living in one way or another.
2. The web has oodles of free advice, but after you pay for your computer, electric, internet connection, it really isn’t free.
3. The only FREE place you can get advice is from friends, family, the library or the Bible.
1:13 pm on April 11th, 2008
Kara Dugaw, That was beautifully said and expresses the answer to Kevin’s situation well! I truly feel that if he continues to be freely sharing the info that he does, that those who can afford to buy his online products will and all will be good in his life, he already seems to enjoy fullfilment in the area of happiness I have little the rest will come…
We should all avoid the mindset of “I want it all and I want it NOW!”
Peace
1:14 pm on April 11th, 2008
It’s fairly common for people to say this sort of thing, but they don’t worry about buying a pack of vitamins (cost money), and would be surprised to find them free – what’s wrong with them? they would say.
It’s not logical to expect anyone to put hours into any activity without any return on that investment, but humans aren’t generally logical, and it’s only if they sit down and think about it clearly, leaving aside emotional gut reactions, that they realize you don’t get much for nothing – TANSTAAFL as they say (There Aint No Such Thing As A Free Lunch)
Now, my gluten factsheet IS free, of course.
1:16 pm on April 11th, 2008
One reason why we give out our information free is because we don’t want the FDA knocking on our door. Another reason is because we truly want to help the ‘less informed’. But, when it’s free, they don’t really follow through with the advice, so charge them, then they’ll feel like they have to use it because they paid for it.
1:16 pm on April 11th, 2008
I meant to say I have little doubt the rest will come! I should have proof read……..
1:24 pm on April 11th, 2008
It’s OK to do what ever you want as long as you don’t hurt anyone. Only you can judge yourself. Those other voices are reflecting your own undecidedness on the matter. No need to justify or explain when you know what you are up to. It will help YOU get clear. Nothing else matters.
1:34 pm on April 11th, 2008
So, the “nutritionists” writing books and articles, giving lectures, doing interviews, teaching seminars, and consulting to clients and hospitals are doing it all for free? Even if their services are underwritten by the government or a corporation they are still receiving a fee. There is always an exception: someone who is independently wealthy does not need to charge a fee for their time and services. The rest of us have to earn money to survive.
1:44 pm on April 11th, 2008
I had a tough time with this issue, but it was a little different. I have no problem paying for services I receive from others, but I feel uncomfortable accepting pay for anything I do.
So many people around me were referring friends, etc., to me for help with learning to eat raw. I loved helping everyone, but it got to a point where it seemed that was all I was doing. So, to remedy the situation I put information up on a web site, for free to others (at a cost to me), so that people could go and read everything that I would have said to them, personally.
But, some insisted that the one-on-one thing was important (and I do understand). However, I’d be back to where I started with giving away so much of myself and having nothing left. My time is important to me; I like to do things for myself, my daughter, my family, etc. So, I had to put a price on my time. It felt uncomfortable, and it still does a little bit because I truly love to help others. But, if I’ve given the help for free and someone is still asking for more, then they should feel good about paying for my time, just as I’d feel good paying for the time someone else gave to me in a similar situation.
Anyway, I think this all comes down to the idea of “helping” others. If you are helping others, it’s a giving thing. I think there is a lot of psychological stuff going on with this and that’s why some people get upset (or uncomfortable).
Personally, I feel good paying for what others are doing for me. So, why should I deprive others of equally feeling good by paying for what I do for them?
It’s an interesting topic and I look forward to reading more comments about it.
Lots of love to you,
Wendi Dee
XOXOXO
1:44 pm on April 11th, 2008
I ignore people like that. But it is a great topic. And I agree with the folks who recommend Atlas Shrugged. Great book.
1:53 pm on April 11th, 2008
It is true in every sense that “a working man is worthy of his pay”
It is ridiculous to assume that just because someone is promoting health and healthy products that they must be a martyr and supply their products and expertise for free.
It is true of course there are and will always be greedy “scam artists” out there that will market dishonestly but the only defense against that is continuing education and constant vigilence.
My heros are those who take what they NEED but always give back so much more than that is worth.
It is sad but true that excellent health these days requires education, time and some money. In the short term there will be underpriveledged persons at risk and no amount of FREE effort will change that significantly. It will be the growing rise of awaremess and progressive methods of education that will really make a difference.
Guys like Kevin, John Barron. Mike Adams, Joe Mercola and many many others are leading the revolution to take back control of our health. They deserve to be rewarded financially but they must maintain their integrity in all things.
Keep up the great work ……….
1:56 pm on April 11th, 2008
Hi Kevin
I agree with you it is ok for this person or others to have their opinion about getting paid in the healthcare info movement or not. I find that most of the time the criticizing people probably would like to reap your reward but not have to do the work. Anyone who doesn’t want the TRUE information, don’t have to buy or read it. It’s their life. There is a universal law that says something to the effect of exchange of energy. Money is energy, paid for a service, your health info. This service is also energy. One way or another there is always an exchange. Is this person willing to accumulate an energy debt somewhere?
2:15 pm on April 11th, 2008
Hi Kevin
You bring up an intersting and controversial topic.I dont believe that those who say, should not do this or that have that right to say that.It means they have a fixed view on things.
The real point is what IS being said is MORE important and HOW it relates to the public IS more important.Also whether some type of research backs it up that makes sense without jargon words to blind the public.
Health experts that continually push product even in around about way do not have much to say otherwise, are empty people and have more need for money than enjoying the passion of the subject.
If the general public are looking to get better information on health then there are a few thing they need to think about (as shazzie said in a video);
1. Does this health expert look healthy and do they practice what they preach?
2.Does the health expert give sound advice that make sense on a general level regarding anatomy and physiology and likley results?
3.If the public is asking for a supplement then best to say how that product has been produced, with ” this is what worked for me, but you make your own mind up about it” and let public/clients read infomration for themselves. This is better way to cover your self without going over the top in the need to “sell.”
The other problem with this whole subject is that, there is so much out there the public are swamped and so there is more need for the real guys to standout and for the best products to stand out with real information. I dont some double blind placebo study either where the statistcs are so skuewed that it does not show the facts plain and clean for a busy public to comprehend.
IT IS ok to sell what you want long as you can stand by it and not throttle the public with over kill but keep the context as well.
2:18 pm on April 11th, 2008
Where can I see the origional e-mail that was sent Kevin?
2:38 pm on April 11th, 2008
Hi
I was taugh that money is the root of all evil. I know many others that think this. It is a hard thing to unlearn. Most people think it’s wrong to take money for good deeds, that is why most people that work in certain professions make so little money. Teacher, minster, small family farmer to name a few.
The work you do is so valuble that some would think it wrong to charge for it. SAD!!! Our world needs to wake up. I am gald to pay for products and services that you and others like you, provide. Thanks for all your hard work. Terry
2:47 pm on April 11th, 2008
As others have stated in their replies anyone who disperses quality information has a right to be compensated.
The issue as I see it that most of the people selling e-books on-line are charging way too much for them.
For example if that same information was published a book of an equialvent size as it would retail from $9.95-29.95 and their take would be less than 40% of that price.
So instead of charging reasonable prices of $5.95 to 24.95 (higher that they would get for a publication), they charge $29.95-99.00.
They could make just as much and possibly more as well as doing a good thing by making their knowledge more easily available and affordable to as many people as possible. They try to justify the higher prices by adding bonuses that are not worth much or available on the internet for free.
Then they put up affiliate links where they pay other people for refferals of up to 50% or more for doing nothing so they can increase their sales. If they offer good products at reasonable prices their sales will blossom as people who purchase them will tell others about the great product they received as a reasonable price.
Then there is the Membership sites which usually charge 9.95 or higher per month which is outrageous as that comes to over $111.00 per year for information that is worth less than half that. Charging a annual fee of $40-50 would be better and not incur fees to the credit card companies every month.
3:03 pm on April 11th, 2008
Dear Kevin-We so-so-so greatly appreciate your help and information both free and paid. One of our favorite thoughts is a universal law that goes like this: Never ever settle for less that you deserve – because when you do- you get even less than you settled for. Everyone out there that thinks everything should be free should keep this in mind and look at all of the gifts of sharing that you give for no charge, from the generosity of true caring and spirit, and be ever so grateful and thankful for them- because YES- they could go away! We love your enthusiasm ,caring, and true passion-Keep Up The Good Work and try not to take things others say too personally-those things are ALL about them anyway! Blessings-Douglas and Rhonda
3:15 pm on April 11th, 2008
i have to admit that i bristle whenever health advice goes from free to fee. mercola.com recently started their “inner circle”, and though i understand the purpose in theory, something rubs me the wrong way, but i don’t know why.
if the service has always been offered for a fee, there is no resistance, but if something goes from free to fee, people react negatively. change is hard on us humans.
3:18 pm on April 11th, 2008
I think it’s okay to make money doing pretty much anything as long as you’re honest about your fees and selling something of real value. Health information, tires, music (my own business/art), whatever- it’s valid to expect an “energy exchange” for your work and if that is money, then fine.
PS A tiny correction:
“speak your peace” is actually “piece.”
3:42 pm on April 11th, 2008
It is absolutely fine to make money from providing valuable health advice to people. You do a good job so ‘cash is just a by product of services rendered.’ If you make lots of money then you obviously provide a very good service (not always the case but it would be true in your case).
As a Chiropractor I provide lifestyle advice as part of my program of care, and I provide excellent service so making a good living goes hand in hand with that.
3:50 pm on April 11th, 2008
Hi Kevin,
It’s ok to make money for services you provide for people. One of the reasons I trust you and your products is because you do give an enormous amount of life changing information for free. You could easily make money with it but I know there is just something about knowing the truth about what will help or hurt someone, you just want to share it with everyone. Thank You so much for the information you provide me with.
Jodi Amans
4:15 pm on April 11th, 2008
Hi Kevin
How do you do?
Firstly, let me thank you for the wonderful work you’re doing in getting people awareness, concerning their own health back.
Secondly, could you tell whom ever it was who send you that e-mail that I would dearly like to have the latest Mercedes for my safety and health reason, and maybe He can help me getting one for free, coz I shouldn’t have to pay for it if it’s for my health.
Yours truly.
Yves
4:29 pm on April 11th, 2008
I appreciate the fact that you aren’t afraid to speak up about what many people are thinking about. It’s true that if people are doing something to help you with your health, you want them to do it out of the goodness of their heart, without any pay. That is idealistic. People have to earn a living to survive in this world. I would rather pay someone for something as valuable as health information, so they can spend their time researching, creating blogs, etc. and not have to hold down a “regular job”. You have given away a lot of information. We don’t have to wonder about where heart is, we can see all the good you have accomplished. I am glad you can make a living at it, so you can continue to spend the time needed and help the rest of us improve our health.
5:04 pm on April 11th, 2008
Of course it’s Ok to be paid when you provide a health service. The person criticizing this should start first with doctors, nurses, etc. I don’t see why it needs to even be discussed, it’s a no brainer. I appreciate that you also provide information free.
Side note, I think you take way too long to thank people for watching since our time is precious. Yes, take less time to say the same thing. I had to walk away to get things done while you were talking, I don’t think I missed anything.
5:06 pm on April 11th, 2008
I understand you are online to make money and provide info for those interested in your knowledge. I also seem to lose money because I pay to be able to hear phone interviews. I am usually busy and not able to get connect at the time of the interview so paid extra for hard copies of the info. I didn’t get the hard copies that were promised at the end of the interviews.
I have paid to be able to get on a site for support but then didn’t get the connect info or password to be able to get on so again no support that I had paid for. This isn’t just this site but others so it isn’t always getting what the consumer pays for and hard to track to get what was suppose to be offered.
Been burned to much.
6:10 pm on April 11th, 2008
This is hogwash, you should be paid. The information is vital to good health practices. Anyone who thinks you shouldn’t be paid, well I guess they work 8-12 hours a day for free. I don’t know of any market, electric company or any utility company, store in general that gives away their products. People just need to use a little common sense and THINK before speaking. The dumbing down of America is successful.
7:10 pm on April 11th, 2008
Hi Kev,
Wow! Did you hit a nerve or what? I wasn’t going to respond when I saw how long the list of responses had become; don’t know if you’re even still reading way down here :0) But I sort of think this is people’s way of weighing in on how much we (I) appreciate what you’re doing with the Renagade show. You’re putting alot of time and energy into this for free and we’re benefiting from it. Thanx! Keep up the good work, and ditto on 98% of what I’ve read above. It must be rewarding to get such a solid response!
Jeanne SDR
7:22 pm on April 11th, 2008
I think it’s great to be able to do what you love for a living. If you had a full time job besides the services you provide for us would suffer, so I am glad to pay for them – just as I used to be glad to pay for Tylenol. The reason ‘Big Pharma’ has overrun our society is because we didn’t want to pay for solutions, so if there is no money to be made in the truth – it was ignored – until now. Supply and demand – if we are willing to pay for accurate, unbiased info it will appear. Organics have taken off because of this concept. Who ever thought people would pay more for organic food? They put it on the market, people bought it, and now I can get all kinds of organic produce and other ‘foods’ at my local grocery store. I’m really surprised that the Ontario government hasn’t jumped all over this with trials of natural health – they’re the ones footing the bill in the end – they could save billions! Someone’s in someone else’s pocket I think.
Steph Rovers – you should be a multimillionaire for the service you provide us Kevin.
8:24 pm on April 11th, 2008
Hey Kevin:
You’re a light chasing the darkness away! I work for three chiropractors who are very passionate about what they do. They provide a service–spinal adjustments that affect emotional, and physical well being in exchange for money. But they get more than ‘money’. They see clients get better, develop a deeper sense of well being, a positive outlook on life, the ability to live pain free. . .That, I have learned, is the ultimate reward for both practitioner and client. I believe that’s why you do what you do, why you provide the services you do. And the truth of the matter is, I’ve also noticed that when I’m provided with information that resonates with me, I will make attempts to gather the funds to purchase the items because I see the ‘value’ in what’s being offered. That is ultimately a choice we each make on our own. We all have to make a living and health is a touchy issue because we have conventional medicine at one end and natural medicine on the other. It’s hard to wrap our head around the idea of paying someone to give us a reiki treatment, let’s say, because it’s energy work and we can’t see the energy. It isn’t tangible. But it’s still a service. The chiropractors I work for also take two days out of the month to raise money for a local charity in order to provide new patients a free examination. And there’s no guarantee that any of these clients are going to start care but it doesn’t matter because the chiropractor’s goal is to help as many people as possible even if it doesn’t translate into monetary gain. When you do something passionately, I also believe the money comes. You’re taken care of. It’s noble and true. Is that not what making a living is all about? To sincerely help people? Keep up the great work. Chin up.
9:59 pm on April 11th, 2008
Kevin,
I agree with you 100%. Thank you for taking the time to research and provide the information. I always learn something from your website and your videos. Keep up the good work and feel free to charge for your services.
Your fan,
Ellena
11:05 pm on April 11th, 2008
Absolutely you should be paid. You put in your knowledge & time. Would these other people just discount this in their profession? I don’t think so…I value knowledge & insight so I must have to pay for it. Why would you even question this? Doctors get paid, Dentist get paid. We need people like you to enlighten us, and you do need to pay YOUR BILLS TOO!!!! Thank you Pres. Bush!!
12:22 am on April 12th, 2008
Hi Kevin,
There is a huge awakening taking place right now because of the alternative health field and what they have been making people aware of in regards to Big Pharma and conventional medicine. A lot of people are still trying to discern who is right and who is wrong. After all, they have had faith in their doctors and pharmacists for a very long time and now they are learning they may have been deceived. Big Pharma makes HUGE profits on pharmaceuticals at the public’s expense. This does tend to put people on the defensive about who they can trust. If someone offers free information, as you do, there is no question that they are speaking from the heart and it is most likely the truth. As soon as someone starts charging for their services, there is always the question of motive.
Of course a person has to be able to make a living. They cannot spend all of their time researching and putting information together without some kind of salary to live on. If they were not paid for their time in some way, they obviously wouldn’t be able to carry on and we, the listeners, would not be able to benefit from them. Even churches need to take up a collection to keep running.
I think what it comes down to is how someone makes money in the health industry, or any industry for that matter…which basically means, how honest are they being and how do they appear to their audience.
If an audience senses that the only reason a person is selling is to make money, that person is not going to connect with their listeners and will eventually become unpopular. If the audience senses the provider has a passion for what he does, that person will connect with his audience and be around for a long time. Just like in singing, if a person simply sings the words to a song without any feeling, he is not going to connect with his audience or become very popular and vice versa. I think it is pretty obvious, by the number of positive responses you have received on this blog, that you have connected with your audience.
People have a choice as to what they are going to pay for and who they are going to listen to. When they go to a store to buy something, they are the ones in control. They have decided they need or want something and they search it out. It is when seller use pushy, manipulative tactics to sell something to someone that red flags start going up and people start to feel they are not in control of the situation anymore. Quite frankly, it can be a real insult to a person’s intelligence when sellers start using these psychological tactics and most people can see right through them. I am thinking of a few sites on the internet where this has occurred and has left a bad taste in my mouth. But you are not in this category Kevin. So don’t even give it another thought. You are doing a great job and I hope you will have your TV show someday soon. You are reaching a lot of viewers, rich and poor..and you have some very innovative ideas. Your videos are a huge success. Best of luck to you my friend.
1:38 am on April 12th, 2008
Referring to the 100’s of posts above:
DITO !!
And I think I speak for everyone!
10:01 am on April 12th, 2008
There are a couple of things which should be taken into consideration when commenting on this issue.
1 – Why is it believed that professional, expert health advice/information should be free?
2 – Exactly what kind of service is being provided which is believed should be provided for free?
Addressing # 1:
You can be certain that individual experience will provide individual reasons, but for the majority of people who believe it should be free probably believe it should be free because the information is so desperately needed.
A few dozen examples could be provided to parallel this situation, but water will suffice.
Everyone can agree that without water all life would cease. This makes water especially important and without it we are lost. Do you pay a water bill every month or do you go to a nearby stream and gather the water yourself? If you pay a water bill(and I would dare say most of you do) then you are paying for the service of the water being brought to you along with all the infrastructure and conditioning involved. I’m not so sure you are actually paying for the water. Information and water are almost synonymous. The only time you pay for information is when it is intellectual property. Otherwise, a lot of information is free if you are willing to do all the legwork yourself. If you are not willing to do all the work, then you actually PAY someone to do that for you, just like you pay a utility company to bring you water. Is the utility company a non-profit organization or do they make a profit? You can bet they make a profit. No one has an issue with the utility company making a profit by providing water to your home, though the amount of profit would be an issue if it was unreasonable. Of course, this is the case with everything that is bought and sold, including services.
Addressing # 2:
After all that blab, this one is obvious.
Are you paying for the information or are you paying for the information infrastructure, conditioning and transport?
There is a saying that whatever can be discovered can be known. Basically this means that you can go out and figure out what works and what doesn’t work, what can be learned through experience and discovery OR you can provide an exchange with someone who has already done this and is willing to provide it. If you think the exchange is unequal, find another provider or do the work yourself.
10:19 am on April 12th, 2008
Hi Kevin
I so agree with you Kevein, and am totally grateful for all the detailed information you give out for free on your site, sharing your vast knowledge with all of us. It has taken you and Annemarie years to get this information together and to pass it on so selflessly is truly awesome. I thank you so much and please don’t ever stop giving us your precious gifts of experience and knowledge. I, for one, am so grateful. Thank you Thank you Thank you
living awesomely
Annelise
3:13 pm on April 12th, 2008
The group mind has spoke. What isn’t said is how lacking in evidence is nearly all advice the Mercolas of webland dispense, often for money. Some buy cosmetics because X found them wondrous, only to find junk in them that causes their sensitivity to erupt. Others try Environmental Working Group, a hard data site (free), with its imperfections the best we have. So with food. The best sources– USDA, the 125 best foods, Nutrition Data are all free. Or recipes- I can’t count the ‘healthy’ recipes that are severely lacking in health, but good ones are usually free.
Sales techniques and testimonials teach nothing, but work on most. Do you take a testimonial from an Apple fan vs Vista, or a (free) honest try at evaluating operating systems, often finding Ubuntu best?
That’s why some prefer the free, but at times (gasp) buy books whose authors have proven they do the evaluation work (free).
The raw field has the start of that with the Boutenkos, but it’s too early to be sure.
4:46 pm on April 12th, 2008
People should be payed for their services…end of story.
When someone gives freely,
well that’s icing on the cake.
Thank-you Kevin healthy doses
of icing which have been made with
organic yummy raw ingredients.
9:53 pm on April 12th, 2008
Of course one should be paid in exchange for services. Our society is so caught up in the things of life. We need to move to a service oriented society such as the ideas described in “Natural Capitalism”. We need to stop filling up our land fills with junk. North of our State Capital in Hartford you can see a huge hill of garbage. Things people purchased and thrown away then wrapped in more plastic so the landfill doesn’t leach into our waterways. Somethings seems wrong about all of that. We need to invest in a service oriented society.
Quality education and health services like this that empower people is an investment in our future. Sure there ought to be resources that should be offer education for free too. And there are. People from every economic level should be able access information about health. And they can. Libraries are one incredible resource. Wikipedia is an incredible resource which I love to use. And so are the millions of websites that offer information for free. But in order to continue one needs to be able to survived. People who critize health educators probably should listen about 30 times the film “The Secret.” Of course they may have to rent that if they can’t borrow it from a friend.
10:33 pm on April 12th, 2008
Kevin,
It is your right to make a living providing your services and/or products! The AMA, pharmaceutical companies,etc…have been getting overpaid for years by providing poor info and products.
Like any industry, the health industry will have good and bad products, services, and advice, and it my job as a consumer to find what is right for me. The great thing is that I have options!
Thank you for services that you do provide, both for free and for a fee!
4:28 am on April 13th, 2008
Kevin, there is nothing wrong with making money doing what you love, believe in and are passionate about it. If you or anyone provides a valuable service, with valuable information they deserve to get paid.
9:29 am on April 13th, 2008
Money is currency. It flows in. It flows out. Just like the tide. It is ever abundant (in our culture) yet our mind and guilt ridden poverty consciousness is so deep rooted.
Kevin- you and the information you give should be paid TOP DOLLAR -I am talking pro athelter salaries.
You are finally doing something that you love nad are so full of passion. That is when the money really should flow.
It is a psychological thing that people will value and honor something that they have to pay for- whether with $ or barter/service.
Keep up the great work.
10:22 am on April 13th, 2008
i feel that you provide a lot-t-t-t of free things to think about. unless you are one of those rich ex-ceo’s or formerly highly paid executive types, you can’t live on no current income. did you get fired and receive hundreds of millions of dollars in pay and stock options? doubt it. you need a larger counter top in your kitchen. i did watch you and your lovely assistant prepare different things in the kitchen. bravo. you are not a greedy person. you’re not constantly trying to bombard me with viagra for sale for $59.95. happy,yes. bothersome,no.
2:46 pm on April 13th, 2008
Kevin, looks like you got a plethora of responses on this issue
Honestly, if it’s NOT okay for people to make money in the health industry, than why do high-paying doctors and pharmaceutical companies exist? People directly pay them for their knowledge and “expertise” with regards to their health and well being.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with making money in the health industry. If you are investing your time and energy into something that there’s a demand for, you should be able to charge for what you do. Whether or not you DO charge for it is an individual and personal decision depending on what your objectives are.
I would much rather pay money to someone who does research that is a real benefit for everyone involved than expect everything for free and get no benefit.
Kevin, the videos you post are personally refreshing and help me to learn new things I never knew existed. Keep doing what you’re doing! If you ever need help with ANYTHING I’m sure you’ll get plenty of helping hands
10:20 pm on April 15th, 2008
Kevin,
The person who sent you the email that generated this topic of discussion must be living in a bubble. What is one of the hot topics around these days? Healthcare, and who is going to pay for it. Now I know it’s a bit different than the point you were going after, but the health business is HUGE! But you hit on something else that I would really love to see fleshed out, and that is how do we address the issue of the snake oil salesmen vs. the real purveyors of good information? I watch your videos and others, I read all kinds of stuff, I listen to podcasts, etc. but what I don’t see a lot of is the sources. My background is in science, and by nature I’m a skeptic, so I like to see some information that backs up the points being made. Even if it’s seemingly simple, like “Hey, you should have learned that in high school biology.” Perhaps, but point to it, and let me decide if the info is valid. Case in point – David Wolfe’s talk on chocolate, and the points he makes about silicon and magnesium making calcium. What would be beautiful is a link to a study that verifies that. He mentioned the French scientist, but I couldn’t catch his name. Anyway, perhaps he had info at the talk. But it just doesn’t seem that many folks out there who are doing what you and David and others are doing seem to understand the power that having sources behind the info brings.
Anyway, enough of this. What I’ve seen of your shows is great, I love your enthusiasm. You seem very genuine, and I really appreciate the info you do provide via the videos. I haven’t had a chance to listed to any of the summit stuff yet, but will check it out.
1:38 am on April 16th, 2008
WoW! What a question. Well, I am glad to pay … We’ve been paying for garbage up until now. Let’s go ahead and pay for something that is improving our World and our lives.
2:56 pm on April 17th, 2008
[...] videos, he poses questions to his audience. When I have the time, I like to respond. One day he was asking for opinions on charging for health information. I responded that I enjoy paying for help that I receive, but I [...]
7:58 pm on April 18th, 2008
Yes it is more than OK. People have to be sustained financially for time expended.
Especially if they provide validation for
any claims.
One Qualification.
Once they generate a business with staff,
all involved are equal owners of the business and share equally in profits, but not in salaries.
11:33 pm on April 21st, 2008
oooooooooh
i LUV this topic & all the comments it generated!
as for:
“Here’s the inevitable Catch 22… if the trusted health experts don’t get paid, they don’t provide us more information.
What a SAD day THAT would be!
Sooo true re: you get btr results for the things you pay MORE for.
I can say that for my gym membership, my personal trainer, and my tennis instructor
the more I paid at each level – the more I took my RESULTS more and more seriously!
I’ll end w/ one of my favorite sayings that rings all too true…
“What we obtain too cheaply
We esteem too lightly”
11:44 pm on April 23rd, 2008
Thanks for all your posts everyone! I’ve pretty much gotten to every one of them and truly appreciate the time it took for you all to write them on such an important topic.
Thanks for that awesome quote CoachDeb!
Kev
Coach Deb’s site is http://www.blogi360.com if you’re a business owner who wants more of a web presence, I’d check it out… I use they’re system for this blog
9:24 pm on May 19th, 2008
First off you and your wife are adorable and your shows are dead on! I want to comment on your question about getting paid and let you know you are so right about natural health marters. I have studied natural health for 23 years and love whole raw living food. I do dietary wellness consulting and have never understood why many of my collegues have this mindset. Of course I help many people and give out lots of free information (because it is my passion) but I also understand business and maybe that is where many fall short of the confidence to put value on their time. Keep up the good work–I love your energy.
Teri Tomlinson M.H., C.N.H.P.
3:04 pm on June 3rd, 2008
Kevin,
Your shows and all the info we get from you, are a true Blessing! When I first came across your site, I was just at awe that you offer all this information and great shows. I tell everyone about your site! Thank you Kevin for your passion and the TRUTH about Health!
1:09 am on June 5th, 2008
Kevin,
Thank you for your show and valuable information.To live in this world one has to make money to survive in the society we live in.To continue what you do requires money.That being said ,not you per say but the raw food,and natural industry can be very costly for the average person.What I often here from others when talking about organics is how expensive it is and how they can’t afford it.I know many people would like to buy natural products but can’t afford it compared to the mainstream products.
12:54 pm on June 7th, 2008
Kevin,
It is OK to share what you know as your personal truth in a world where obesity and disease are overcoming others that just don’t get it. Yet. Thanks to you. You GO . . . . . . . .
8:16 pm on June 27th, 2008
Hi Kevin,
Thank you so much for your website and show – I love it!! I’ve been watching you for a while now; I’m going through some of your archived shows and thought I would comment (this is the first time I’ve commented).
In my opinion, when someone has no financial interest in a product that they are reviewing, or recommending, for that very reason they have credibility. If someone gains financially from the sale of a product, what they say about that product may be more influenced by their desire to make money from the sale of that product than the actual truth.
For example, I am more likely to believe what you, an independent reviewer, have to say about a particular supplement than I am to believe what a salesperson says about that same supplement. You have no ulterior motive in telling me that the supplement is wonderful, etc., because you will not profit if I buy it. On the other hand, the salesperson does have an ulterior motive, because he absolutely will profit if I buy it.
8:00 pm on August 20th, 2008
Hi Kevin and Annemarie,
As always I really love your show, and have chosen to comment on this rather than a current one…
You both give plenty for free, and I am sure that in many ways albeit not directly, the universe gives back tenfold in return.
That is not to say that you should not charge top dollar for your services and your knowledge and time, but what you do give, brings those who appreciate, and those who share with others who can pay your just rewards. Keep it up and pay it forward!
P.S. Don’t be fooled into thinking that you must have a bigger kitchen or bigger home or more stuff – having a smaller footprint can make you wiser about what you choose to accumulate and force you to edit what is in your life – just like you teach us to edit what we put into our bodies:)
7:17 pm on October 1st, 2008
my website is under construction, but what I would like to say in regards to charging for health info is that unless it is a product that you are selling, people don’t see your overhead. I am a life coach, health, finance, emotions, and spiritual, to help you to maneuver skillfully through the ups and downs of life. I run into exactly the same issues. If I am selling a book it is a little different, but if I am doing a q and a session, I better not submit a bill or expect payment. That is why we put together seminars so they are charged right up front for admittance to the q and a session. I would just like to share a little story. There was a guy who had a problem with his car. He took it everywhere in town to get it fixed. Payed a lot of money, and never got the darn thing fixed. Finally, he found a guy that said he could fix it in a matter of seconds. So he let the mechanic try to fix it, even though he was skeptical. The mech. picked up a hammer smacked the side of some part under the hood, wiped his hands off, and started writing the bill out. The bill came to 500$. This guy came unglued, because he saw what he did to fix it. He said all you did was hit it with a hammer, and for that you are going to charge me 500$. The mechanic told him to take it for a test drive and make sure it ran all right. Sure enough it was fixed. He went back to the shop to argue about the bill. Well, when he read the bill it was still 500$. but it was made out a little different. It said, swinging the hammer 5$, knowing where to hit, 495$. Knowledge has its overhead as well, it cost us a lot of money and time through years of experience, in and out of school. Trying things that don’t work to get us to what does work. So if they want to continue trying what doesn’t work, in the long run it will cost them what it cost us. We are just trying to save them that expense, and recapture years upon years of time and money we spent to get to where we are the authority. Also they came to us, we didn’t go to them. As much as I would like to do all that I do for free. You are right. If I can’t make a living at it, I am simply not going to be available to answer their questions. I will be at work.
3:31 pm on October 20th, 2008
Kevin: You are so right on point. To speak to your comment about religious people thinking one should be a martyr, don’t think so! Look at all the wealthy televangelists! My husband and I are preachers kids whose parents got paid for their services, although certainly not what they were worth. However, Scripture states clearly “the workman is worth his hire.” Check out Matthew 10:10.
The amount of free information you give is certainly more than a lot of merchants in physical stores will give you to entice you to purchase their wares. You spend a lot of time gathering information and presenting it. YES you should be able to earn a living at it, because when you do, we profit from your knowledge! Thanks so much!
10:04 pm on October 25th, 2008
Kevin,
I believe that some people may have the health industry mixed up with religion. As religion “is supposed to be free.” So they figure health advice should be free. Not true everyone needs to earn a living. If you counted on donations do you think you could earn a living probably not. Keep doing what you are doing and I appreciate that your show is free. That means alot.
Regards,
Maria Jones
12:46 pm on November 20th, 2008
Kevin,
It’s great that you’ve set up a way for the folks who have large enough incomes to make donations.
That must have given your budget the boost it needs to keep these therapeutic shows to the standard you like to deliver!
The thought of withholding this helpful information from folks that are unable to pay had to be quite a burden to bare. I love your show and appreciate your sharing.
I can’t afford the cost of the Inner Circle option but am mostly healthy with what information I am able to glean for free by searching through the information put up on the web by y’all, and from experts you direct us to from here, and from other good folks like Mike Adams, David Wolfe, and the like!
Rawk On!
12:13 pm on November 26th, 2008
Your time is more than generous and I feel, should be compensated for all the work. But, on the other side, there are people, me being one, are disabled, w/ low income. How I would love! to meet you and others, with lecture get-aways! But for now, this is not possible and I’m happy with info that trickles down.
I also see this happening in the medical feild. Unfortunatly, lack of $$ can be predjudicial in who recieves treatment and what kind.
luv to live, live to luv!
Martha! ; )
7:23 pm on November 27th, 2008
I know I am catching on to this issue very late..but I just wanted to speak my mind as well…
Hopefully it will still be read..even if it is really late…
I appreciate your efforts in offering great info for free.. I loved the Rawkathon.. LOVED IT!!
I, myself, am trying to spread the word about better health and all the toxins to avoid via my website. On my site, I have linked to many other great resources on many subjects..
I have recently had some business cards printed out..(and I say that lightly)as they aren’t really “business” cards..but rather convenient cards to hand out to people who are interested in reading the info that I have researched online..
I wanted to put on my card..research specialist..hee hee..and somehome be able to charge people for the time and effort to research all that I have..but.. I didn’t feel it is legally possible to charge people for offering them something they could have already found on their own..but didn’t know how to..
So.. I agree.. It is a touchy subject and I am sure can and will still bring up lots of other comments on the issue..
If this world wasnt so money centered, then it would be possible for natural health professionals to offer free services..but again.. This is a money centered world.. Too bad!!!
I wish it wasn’t so…
Thanks again for your great free info..
2:45 pm on November 28th, 2008
Dear Kevin…
I have a few concerns about this subject and I’m afraid to speak my peace!!!
I’m afraid you and other people might condemn me – even maybe rightly so! Perhaps I don’t know what I’m talking about!
Let me know if it’s okay to write something that you promise to take down if it’s upsetting or I chance my courage!
Am I a coward in this? Well, sort of. I don’t want to hurt ANYONE’s feelings nor tear anyone down. But I do have strong feelings about the marketing of raw food.
What i say definitely goes against the grain…
Love!
3:39 pm on December 1st, 2008
I am not going to go on a rant or post a long message but I think if you have good information to share and it is your passion it is your OBLIGATION to be able to make a comfortable. I had people here in NYC complain about the price of personal training being $100 per hour this is after he told me a story of how he just added a wing to his house. I thought only birds and planes have wings. Another guy was one that sells $1500 purses to people in Hollywood. People will pay for what they are willing to pay for.
1:36 pm on December 23rd, 2008
Hi Kevin ~
I couldn’t agree with you more! We currently live in a world that uses money as a means of exchange for goods and services. You are absolutely correct that there exists the belief that when it comes to the healing professions… these goods and services should often be given away freely. I personally invested an incredible amount of time, energy and money in order to be able to provide quality goods and services to my patients and for that I should be compensated just like any other professional. Learning is also an ongoing process and I continue to educate myself regarding the latest research, products and treatments in order to broaden my knowledge base of which my clients in turn have the advantage of. All of this requires energy, time and money. I have also dedicated a considerable portion of my life to assisting others in their healing process and therefore this is my sole means of making a livelihood.
With that being said… there is also an understanding amongst traditional healers that they themselves will suffer an illness if they either charge too little OR too much for the products and services that they offer! Their products and services should be effective as well as priced within reason. While I have observed the martyrdom of which you speak in the healing professions… I have also witnessed the rise of the ego-driven ‘health’ professionals who are more motivated by seeking fame and fortune and jumping on the latest ‘health’ trend (as gimmicky and ineffective as it may be) rather than truly focusing on the health and wellbeing of their patients. While this comes as no surprise in the allopathic ‘health care’ system that is largely driven by the pharmaceutical industry… it is now becoming more and more commonplace among those practicing complementary and natural ‘health’ care as well.
To be very clear… their has been a vilifying of the allopathic ‘health care’ system… and much of it is rightfully deserved. However… there are also plenty of business people masquerading as complementary and natural healers… and some cases they are just as guilty if not more so than their allopathic counterparts.
I have myself wrestled with the issue of my fees and have come to the conclusion that rather than offering any pro bono or sliding scale goods or services… I charge a reasonable rate… albeit one that allows me to make a good living… which in turn provides me with the opportunity to make donations to charitable causes as well as volunteer my time providing educational information in ways that it will benefit a greater number of people. By the way… this was a lesson learned the hard way as I was previously one of those who charged far too little and consequently my health in fact suffered as a result!
Until the day comes when we are no longer a society that exchanges money for goods and services… but bartering and using other creative means of compensation instead… or follow the ancient Chinese method of compensating healers for keeping their patients well instead of paying the when their sick… we would all be wise to pay heed to the advice of the traditional healers. There is much wisdom in their advice!
All the best ~ Dr. O
11:43 am on January 22nd, 2009
Hi, I just saw this show and my take on it is, if the companies who sold us the processed food and the companies who make and sell medications that made american the way it is now, why can’t we (I’m a Holisitic Health Counselor) sell wellness to help get us out of the mess that we’re in?
Companies are putting products on the shelves KNOWING they cause cancer and other diseases. Something is wrong with that.
I think that there is nothing the matter with selling wellness infomation. Thank God that we have the people we do in this field. It’s time to empower and educate people. People are tired of being sick. Now is the time.
2:21 pm on January 22nd, 2009
As a punter seeking good health information,
i don’t object to information marketers charging for products-as far as renegadehealth
is concerned you provide a great balance of free information and information that you charge for.
What may be a bit more controversial are
health marketers claiming to have unique information which play on ignorance of unsuspecting info hunters who really need it
and are desperate to be healed.whereas if they
took the time to look around much of the info is actually in the public domain or elsewhere on the internet.
2:34 pm on January 22nd, 2009
I agree that there is nothing wrong with making money in the health industry, as longas you are honest and have integrity. It is always saig in our business that we have a moral obligation to share information and help people.If we fail to do this, then we do not deserve to reap any benefits.
1:01 pm on January 23rd, 2009
I am in the UK where medical services funded through general taxation if you go the pharmaceutical/surgical route. I have chosen to deal with my tumour through natural ways and for this I am paying a lot of cash as my private health insurance does not cover more than the first £200. I am happy to pay my therapists/healers – they need to make a living – but I wish my tax contribution could give me a choice about where my money goes!
10:14 pm on February 5th, 2009
I think it is important to support financially as well to those who are asissting you in life whether it be food, entertainment or spiritual. Your show is a great positive force in the world and you and your crew do a wonderful service. You speak from a place of genuinity and you help lots of people. I appreciate what you and Anne Marie do. Not only that you are an example of someone who loves what they do and shares the knowledge to others.
There are labels and associations people have with money. Money is not evil in itself nor is it bad or wrong to have lots of it. It is one of the benefits of your self expression. Money is like energy or an appreciation system.
12:14 pm on February 10th, 2009
I am so happy to have watched this video as it is a topic I myself have been thinking over for some time! But when you think about it, in North America we pay for services that destroy our health so why would we not do the same for things that improve our health? The people that provide services to improve our health also need to make a living and cover the cost of the resources they need for providing those services. If it were somewhere else maybe we would exchange some item for their time and resources but we are in North America and repay them for their time and resources by money. If we stopped thinking about money so much as an evil culprit and more of a way of paying for services then it would be easier to resolve this issue in our minds about paying for health. It would also be nice to be able to exchange other items but money is just the main stream here. Again, I am glad you made this episode because it helped me resolve some of the things that I was wondering myself. Keep up the great work!
3:54 pm on April 6th, 2009
I definitely believe in going the extra mile for people ,Helping people , opening their eyes and minds .I know quality information and quality products do not come for nothing.I think anything that can change your quality of life or your health has a price tag on it.What I think is eventually the quality will be marketed elsewhere and what makes this site so great will have an adverse effect on renegadehealth.com Definitely it is OK to make money in the health industry.
11:37 am on April 25th, 2009
its ok to be rewarded for helping someone, if that reward can allow you to help others. This is obviously the case with your situation.
In fact shouldnt people giving people their health (the richest asset they own) be rewarded the most out of all of us! To survive the health industry needs make money, for gods sake lets support it all we can, for it serves us more than drugs or lawyers or petrol.
12:12 pm on December 11th, 2009
In the health industry, when you only sell information, people will just respond to that information. Or, if you are just selling products, people will just respond to your products. However, when you sell information AND the products about which you are providing information, people will question your information as they decide whether or not they want to buy your products. They are more likely to test and question your personal integrity. This questioning is a natural process, and those who are in such a position should simply be aware of it. So long as any person in that position is internally and externally transparent and truthful about their own heart-motivation, nothing can hurt them. Some say that for this reason, it is harder to be in this position than it is to just sell information or just sell products.