Can a multi-level marketing (MLM) company truly deliver on its promises of health and opportunity, or is it just another overhyped scheme? 

With critics calling MLMs 'pyramid schemes' and advocates claiming life-changing potential, the debate is as heated as ever. So where does Unicity’s Feel Great System fit in?

As someone who has navigated this income model for over 20 years, I’m here to share the unfiltered truth—both the challenges and the successes.

Before diving in, let’s first address the confusion surrounding MLMs and pyramid schemes, as the terms are often used interchangeably.

MLMs vs. Pyramid Schemes: Understanding the FTC’s Guidelines

In the United States, the FTC provides guidelines to differentiate pyramid schemes from legitimate MLMs. Pyramid schemes focus on recruiting members and promise payments for enrolling others, often operating as a "return on investment" scheme with no products or consumer involvement.

Legitimate MLMs, on the other hand, involve promoting a company’s products or services directly to end consumers, where income is generated from both individual’s sales volume and the sales of recruits brought into the network – but the main focus is on offering products and services to consumers.

The line, however, can become blurred. Many recruits within MLMs fall into the trap of prioritizing recruitment over product sales, leading to a focus that contradicts the intended model.

The FTC warns against exaggerated income and health claims, emphasizing that such claims can mislead when most participants fail to achieve the promised results.

Issues can also arise from high upfront costs, enrollment incentives that favor recruiters, promises of "get rich quick" outcomes, or products that might not appeal to consumers outside of a financial incentive.

Even legitimate MLM companies, like Unicity, can encounter these challenges due to the behavior of some recruits. However, Unicity stands apart with its long history, science-backed approach, in-house manufacturing capabilities, and commitment to high-quality wellness products

From Rexall To Unicity: A Legacy MLM

Unicity's journey from its roots in Rexall drugstores to becoming a global health and wellness leader is a story of innovation, integrity, and commitment. The company, Rexall, began with Bios Life Diet  (later named “Balance”), a fiber supplement founded at the University of Santa Barbara in the 1980s was found to have supported healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

While its benefits were clear, the product struggled to sell in traditional retail settings throughout the network of Rexall drugstores in the United States.

In 1991, Rexall transitioned to a person-to-person sales model, adopting the MLM structure to better educate customers, calling this division Rexall Showcase.

For decades, Unicity remained relatively unknown in North America despite its strong market presence in countries like Korea, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Today, Unicity operates in over 60 countries, offering science-backed products and an entrepreneurial opportunity. Unlike many MLMs,

Unicity owns and operates its manufacturing and research facilities in Las Vegas, Korea, and Singapore, maintaining strict quality control from production to distribution.

By prioritizing science-based innovation, Unicity has built a reputation for delivering exceptional products to consumers worldwide, while also creating an entrepreneurial environment for its network distributors.

Understanding Unicity’s MLM Approach

As discussed earlier, MLMs often face criticism for prioritizing recruitment over product sales, which can lead to high turnover rates and unrealistic income expectations.

Historically, Unicity has distinguished itself by emphasizing product quality and a customer-first focus.

While some aspects have shifted in recent years (which we’ll explore shortly), the foundation remains the same. Most legacy distributors, including myself, began as consumers who experienced the benefits of Unicity’s products firsthand before deciding to share them with others.

Unicity offers a simple three-tier pricing model:

• Retail Pricing: The standard price shown on their website.
• Wholesale Pricing: A discounted price available to members and distributors.

Members are customers who enjoy wholesale prices without participating in the MLM income model. This distinction is key because it highlights Unicity’s focus on genuine product users, an important factor in maintaining transparency within the MLM industry.

Additionally, Unicity’s Member Referral Program allows non-distributor customers to earn product credits through word-of-mouth sharing—making it possible to share their experience without pressure to become a distributor. And with a 90-day satisfaction guarantee, customers can try Unicity’s products risk-free, reflecting confidence in their quality.

Unicity’s Commitment to Science

Unicity’s commitment to science sets it apart in an industry often criticized for unsubstantiated claims. By collaborating with leading researchers like Dr. Ben Bikman and partnering with institutions like the Cleveland Clinic and the University of Sydney, Unicity continues to conduct clinical studies to validate the effectiveness of its products.

Unlike many MLM companies that outsource production, Unicity owns and operates its own manufacturing and research facilities in Las Vegas, Korea, and Singapore. This allows the company to maintain strict quality control, ensuring its products meet the highest standards.

With a presence in over 60 countries, these facilities enable Unicity to directly serve consumers worldwide, reinforcing its global reach and dedication to excellence.

This focus on quality and science is why Unicity’s products are featured in respected references like the Prescribers Desk Reference (PDR) and medical journals. These endorsements provide customers with the confidence that they’re using products supported by credible research and proven efficacy.

Tackling Misleading Health Claims

MLMs often face criticism for exaggerated health and income claims, and Unicity is not exempt from these challenges—particularly in recent years with the rise of TikTok trends among Feel Great promoters.

Misleading claims, such as “you can eat whatever you want and still see results” with the Feel Great System, oversimplify the truth. While the system is highly effective at improving metabolic health, achieving lasting results still requires thoughtful dietary choices and a commitment to overall wellness.

Understanding MLM Income Statistics

Unicity’s income disclosure statements provide valuable insight into earning potential. In 2023, 57% of U.S. distributors earned commissions, but the median income was $220 annually. Only the top 10% earned over $5,200, and fewer than 1% earned nearly $107,000.

These figures highlight that success in MLMs requires consistent effort, realistic expectations, and a focus on building long-term customer relationships and support - not something often experienced in the MLM industry.

Understanding these income disclosure statement nuances like the difference between the reported median income (what most earn) and average income (skewed by a few high earners) often go unmentioned by promoters. Approaching MLMs with these realities in mind ensures a more informed decision about whether the model aligns with your goals.

Is MLM the Right Fit for You?

The MLM income structure isn’t for everyone. For most, it works better as a secondary income source, particularly for individuals who first experience and appreciate the products. This may explain why only a small percentage of participants achieve top earnings.

Contrary to common misconceptions, the highest earners aren’t necessarily those who joined first. With the right compensation plan, anyone—regardless of when they join—can outperform earlier members and achieve higher earnings.

This demonstrates that while the opportunity is accessible, success is not evenly realized.

My Customer-First Approach

In my experience, MLMs are best approached as a part-time income opportunity—and even then, they may not be the right fit for everyone. Despite being part of an MLM, I’ve earned more than many in my upline, including those who joined years or even decades before me.

My success is rooted in serving member customers who consistently order products at the same wholesale price I pay for my own use. This customer-first focus has been the foundation of my success in an industry often misunderstood and criticized.

When I became an active distributor with Unicity in 2008, it wasn’t flashy marketing or quick-fix promises that drew me in—it was the life-changing results I experienced as a consumer. That personal transformation inspired me to share the benefits with others, but I’ve always approached my business with integrity and authenticity.

My journey hasn’t been without challenges or hard work, but today, I proudly serve hundreds of member customers worldwide on a part-time basis.

My monthly income is built on consistent sales volume—not aggressive recruiting, inventory front-loading, or pressuring friends and family. Instead, I’ve focused on helping customers achieve meaningful health improvements through education, ongoing support, and quality products.

Interestingly, my income with Unicity operates more like an affiliate marketing model than a typical MLM structure. Many of my regular clients likely don’t even realize that Unicity is an MLM, which underscores the power of a product-first focus.

This approach demonstrates that success is possible by prioritizing customer needs and avoiding the hype often associated with MLMs.

Why I Wrote Beyond Feel Great

In 2023, I wrote and self-published Beyond Feel Great to share the health principles that not only transformed my life but also helped thousands of others achieve meaningful, lasting change. This comprehensive guide goes beyond being a sales pitch for the Feel Great products—it’s an evidence-based, practical, and sustainable approach to optimal health.

The title, "Beyond Feel Great", reflects my desire to offer guidance that extends beyond what I was seeing as common promotional tactics for the Feel Great System. The book provides readers with clear insights and actionable steps to support lasting health improvements, grounded in science and real-world results.

As a testament to my commitment to my member customers, I personally had hundreds of copies printed and mailed them worldwide with handwritten notes of appreciation. This was my way of thanking them for their trust and supporting their health journeys.

For anyone seeking wellness solutions rooted in evidence and practicality, Beyond Feel Great serves as a roadmap to achieving real and meaningful health improvements. 

Integrity in MLM: Choosing an Ethical Path (Or Not!)

I understand that my approach to MLM might seem unusual—some might even call it an anomaly. In an industry often criticized for prioritizing recruitment over customers, I’ve chosen to do things differently. My focus has always been on providing real value to my customers and supporting their health journeys, not on aggressive recruiting tactics or exaggerated claims.

I also know that honesty in MLM is rare, and this article might stand out for not sugarcoating the challenges or promising quick riches. My goal isn’t to convince anyone to join Unicity, but to offer a transparent account of my experiences. While this path isn’t for everyone, it’s been a rewarding way for me to positively impact others’ health while maintaining my commitment to ethical practices even within the context of an MLM company.

Whether you’re exploring the Feel Great System for better health or considering Unicity as a potential income source, my advice is simple: don’t fall for the typical MLM hype. Approach any opportunity with informed skepticism and realistic expectations. Success in this model requires effort, integrity, and a customer-first mindset—not shortcuts or exaggerated promises.

Through a commitment to these values, I’ve been able to build a successful part-time income while helping others achieve meaningful health improvements.

If you’re interested in learning more, I invite you to download my Feel Great System Income Option eBook. It’s an honest, practical guide to making the most of this opportunity while avoiding common pitfalls. Whatever path you choose—whether within MLM or another entrepreneurial venture—I wish you success and fulfillment in your journey. 

Related Articles:

• The Feel Great System: A Side Income Option
• Feel Great System: Unicity Member Referral Program
• Rexall Drugs: The History of Bios Life 2 to Unicity Balance