JAN 7

Consumer Trends and Direct Selling in 2026

In this conversation, Diane Sealey and Dr. Amna Khan explorethe evolving landscape of consumer behaviour, particularly in the context of technology, personal branding, and trust. They discuss how the rise of AI and screens has changed consumer interactions, the importance of personal connections and the shifting dynamics of trust from brands to individuals. Theconversation highlights the need to adapt to these changes to foster deeper relationships with consumers and why those in the direct selling sector are perfectly positioned for these shifts in consumer behaviour in 2026. TakeawaysIn 2026 consumers will focus on connection and personal interaction. AI and tech must complement human interaction not replace it How tech is creating distrust - the new dynamic of trust The rise of the personal brand and creators - no longer the preserve of celebrities Why direct sellers are perfectly poised to meet the needs of consumers in today's landscape Chapters 00:00 The Journey into Consumer Behaviour 02:00 The Year of Human Connection 06:58 Screen Fatigue and Its Impact 11:20 The Rise of Personal Brands 15:29 The Shifting Dynamic of Trust 21:11 Why Direct Selling is perfectly poised for today’sconsumer behaviour

27 min

12/19/2025

The Power of Books in Personal Development

In this conversation, Barry shares his journey of foundingKnowledge is King, a personal development company that has been thriving for over three decades. He discusses the profound impact of personal development on individuals in network marketing, emphasizing the importance of reading andcontinuous learning. Barry recounts transformative stories of individuals who have changed their lives through personal development and highlights the significance of community and collaboration in this sector. He also provides practical tips for maximizing reading experiences and discusses the uniqueconcept of the Book of the Month, which delivers valuable new titles to members. The conversation concludes with reflections on the future of personal development and its role in fostering growth and success. Takeaways: Personal development can profoundly impact individuals'lives.Reading is a lifelong journey that can transformperspectives. The Book of the Month offers valuable new titles each month. Implementing knowledge is crucial for personal andprofessional growth. A beginner's mind enhances the reading experience. Reading first thing in the morning maximizes retention. Not all readers are leaders, but all leaders are readers. Personal development is the invisible glue that holds teamstogether.

44 min

11/18/2025

The Power of Personality Profiling in Recruitment

In this conversation, Diane and Claire Cahill delve into the significance of personality profiling, particularly DISC, in recruitment and team dynamics. They explore how understanding different personality types can enhance communication, foster diversity, and improve team performance. The discussion also touches on the challenges of engaging a multi-generational workforce, the importance of psychological safety, and the need for effective onboarding processes. Claire shares insights on how organizations can navigate changes in the post-pandemic world and address age discrimination in the workplace, emphasizing the value of inclusivity and understanding in fostering a productive work environment. Takeaways Personality profiling helps in understanding communication styles.Different personalities contribute to team diversity and effectiveness.Recruiting for diverse personalities prevents groupthink.Psychological safety is crucial for team engagement.Onboarding processes should focus on building trust.Generational differences impact workplace dynamics.Organizations must adapt to a changing workforce.Effective communication is key to team performance.Age discrimination remains a challenge in recruitment.Diversity in thought enhances problem-solving capabilities.Unlocking Team Potential with Personality ProfilingThe Power of DISC in Recruitment"The world is wobbling.""We can’t discriminate based on age.""We all have unique different ideas." Chapters 00:00 Understanding Personality Profiling 07:03 The Importance of Recruitment and Team Dynamics 09:08 Exploring Different Personality Profiling Tools 12:01 Corporate Use of Personality Profiling 14:31 The Role of DEI in Modern Workplaces 19:55 Addressing Bias in Recruitment 22:08 Identifying and Managing Blind Spots 23:11 Understanding Blind Spots and Psychological Safety 24:02 Engagement in a VUCA World 26:29 Navigating Post-Pandemic Work Environments 28:22 Creating Space for Reflection and Well-Being 31:39 Generational Perspectives on Work-Life Balance 35:29 The Importance of Onboarding and Building Trust 39:06 Addressing Age Discrimination in the Workforce 42:38 Embracing Diversity and Neurodiversity

44 min

10/14/2025

Direct Selling in Italy

In this episode of Selling in Europe, Alessandro Ghidini and Vincenzo Giacalone, Meridian’s partners in Italy discuss the evolving landscape of direct selling. They share their extensive backgrounds in the industry, the impact of COVID-19 on market dynamics, and how the model is supporting significant growth of utility services. The conversation also touches on the challenges of educating traditional companies about modern direct selling practices and the future trends that may shape the industry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Direct Selling in Italy 07:02 Market Changes Post-COVID 11:54 The Rise of Utility Services in Direct Selling 18:22 The Importance of Direct Selling Associations 18:47 Challenges in Educating Traditional Companies 23:02 Future Trends in Direct Selling 25:35 Collaboration with Meridian Partners

30 min

09/14/2025

Women Leading Change in Direct Selling

In this episode, Susannah Schofield OBE, Director General of the UK’s Direct Selling Association, opens up about her journey from early influences to becoming a leading voice for women and young people in business. She reflects on the importance of family, the inspiration of Margaret Thatcher, and the honour of receiving an OBE. Susannah shares candid insights on balancing career and motherhood, the evolution of work-life balance post-COVID, and the opportunities within the direct selling sector. We discuss how technology is reshaping the industry, why education and regulation matter for the future, and how direct selling offers flexibility and empowerment without a glass ceiling. With her passion for nurturing the next generation, Susannah highlights the personal and professional development opportunities available to women in business today. Chapters 00:00 Empowering Women: Susanna's Journey 02:38 Recognition and Impact: The OBE Award 05:39 Balancing Act: Career and Motherhood 08:37 The Evolution of Work-Life Balance 11:23 The Direct Selling Sector: Opportunities andFlexibility 14:01 Transforming the Direct Selling Association 16:27 Future Aspirations: Education and Regulation 19:09 Embracing Technology in Direct Selling 21:33 Personal Touch in a Digital World 24:32 Looking Ahead: The Future of Direct Selling titles Sound Bites Chapters 00:00Empowering Women: Susanna's Journey 02:38Recognition and Impact: The OBE Award 05:39Balancing Act: Career and Motherhood 08:37The Evolution of Work-Life Balance 11:23The Direct Selling Sector: Opportunities andFlexibility 14:01Transforming the Direct Selling Association 16:27Future Aspirations: Education and Regulation 19:09Embracing Technology in Direct Selling 21:33Personal Touch in a Digital World 24:32Looking Ahead: The Future of Direct Selling 28:55NEWCHAPTER

29 min

09/04/2025

Empowering Young Entrepreneurs in Direct Sales

In this engaging conversation, Zara Harding of Oriflame UK shares her journey in the direct sales industry, emphasizing the importance of supporting young entrepreneurs and adapting to the changing landscape of work. She discusses the need for educational systems to better equip students for entrepreneurship, the significance of community in direct sales, and the value of in-person events for fostering connections. Zara also highlights the success factors at Oriflame UK and offers advice for newcomers in the industry. Chapters 00:00 Zara's Journey into Direct Sales 05:39 Engaging Young Entrepreneurs 08:44 The Future of Direct Sales 17:49 The Importance of Live Events 24:49 Community and Team Dynamics 26:56 Motivation and Personal Development 29:39 Advice for Newcomers in Direct Sales

35 min

08/27/2025

Goal Mapping - Unlock Your Potential

In this episode of the Selling in Europe podcast, Brian Mayne shares his inspiring journey from homelessness and personal struggles to becoming a successful speaker and creator of the Goal Mapping system. He discusses the principles of personal development that transformed his own life, the science behind positive thinking, and the importance of setting and reviewing goals. Brian also reflects on his experiences working with large corporates and the impact of his work on individuals and communities. As he celebrates 30 years of Goal Mapping, he emphasizes the need for continuous learning and the power of motivation in achieving success. Takeaways Brian's journey began in hardship, facing homelessness and personal struggles.He discovered personal development principles that changed his life as a result of his involvement in direct salesPositive thinking is backed by science and can be learned by anyone.The seven steps of Goal Mapping combine creativity and logic for effective goal achievement.Regular review of goals is crucial for forming new brain connections.Celebrating 30 years of Goal Mapping with a focus on helping others.Inspiration comes from ordinary people making a difference.

51 min

08/18/2025

Success in Sales

In this conversation, Diane Sealey interviews Peter Knoell, Director and Partner at Genic Direct, about his extensive experience in the direct sales sector. Peter shares insights into the challenges of the German market, the importance of understanding customer decision journeys, and the flexibility that direct sales offers. He discusses the growing trend of traditional brands exploring direct sales and the significance of the Meridian-Genic partnership in navigating the complexities of the market. The conversation also touches on the importance of data in understanding customer needs and the personal interests of Peter outside of work. Takeaways Successful sales are driven by clear strategies and motivated teams.Understanding the German market is crucial for success.Customer decision journeys vary significantly by product and demographic.Experience with products is key to building customer trust.Traditional brands are increasingly exploring direct sales channels.Data collection enhances customer relationships and brand loyalty.The Meridian-Genic partnership offers deep operational experience.Cultural differences must be navigated when entering new markets. www.genic.de Peter's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-knöll-27571a79/

24 min

07/04/2025

Exploring The Direct Selling Revolution

In this episode of the Selling In Europe podcast, we step into the evolving world of direct selling with industry luminary Bob Parker. Bob has vast experience in the direct selling sector and is recognised in the DSA Hall of Fame. Fresh from the Direct Selling University (DSU) event in Amsterdam in this chat with host Diane Sealey, Bob talks about the strategic shifts, emerging trends and opportunities, and core values that are propelling direct selling into an exciting new era. From attracting Generation Z to building resilient customer relationships in a post-pandemic, digital-first landscape. During the conversation, Bob also shares insights into the industry white paper that Meridian MMI has created to support and share knowledge within the sector. The white paper is free to download from the Meridian website. The document has been praised for its simplicity and clarity, outlining trends within the industry and the strategy and tactics required to stay in step with the new digitally dominated world, without sacrificing the best aspects of relationship-based sales. The download link to the Meridian MMi White Paper is here #MeridianMMi #SellingInEurope #BobParker

25 min

02/09/2025

Introduction to the Selling In Europe Podcast

Welcome to Selling in Europe, the podcast designed to equip leaders of small and large organisations with the insights and strategies they need to thrive in the dynamic European direct selling and retail landscape. Whether you're navigating the complexities of physical storefronts or conquering the ever-evolving world of online commerce, this podcast is your go-to resource. Across a diverse range of episodes, we'll delve into every conceivable subject impacting your business. From understanding nuanced cultural differences in consumer behaviour and adapting your marketing message accordingly, to mastering the intricacies of cross-border logistics and navigating diverse regulatory environments, we'll cover it all. We'll explore effective strategies for building and managing high-performing teams across different cultures, discuss the latest trends in e-commerce and digital marketing specific to the European market, and unpack the secrets to creating truly engaging customer experiences that resonate across diverse demographics. We'll also tackle the challenges and opportunities presented by emerging technologies, explore innovative sales techniques tailored to the European consumer, and discuss best practices for scaling your business sustainably while remaining compliant with local regulations. We'll feature interviews with industry experts, successful entrepreneurs, and thought leaders who will share their firsthand experiences and offer practical advice you can implement immediately. This introductory episode sets the stage for what you can expect from Selling in Europe. We'll outline the key themes we'll be exploring in future episodes, introduce the host and their expertise, and give you a taste of the valuable insights and actionable strategies you'll gain by tuning in. Whether you're a seasoned executive or just starting your journey in the European market, Selling in Europe will provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to succeed. Subscribe now and join us as we unlock the potential of the European marketplace! #SellingInEurope

4 min

Selling In Europe

Episodes

Consumer Trends and Direct Selling in 2026

The Power of Books in Personal Development

The Power of Personality Profiling in Recruitment

Direct Selling in Italy

Women Leading Change in Direct Selling

Empowering Young Entrepreneurs in Direct Sales

Goal Mapping - Unlock Your Potential

Success in Sales

Exploring The Direct Selling Revolution

Introduction to the Selling In Europe Podcast

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