I have been trying to solve the mystery of Dr. Bob Seligman for quite a few months. No one is able to verify any of his credentials. However, in my correspondence with Doug Bauknight, one of his favorite sayings (taken from Coach) was something along the lines of "if it ain't right, don't do it, if it ain't the truth, don't say it"--and I truly believed that Doug tried to live and operate by this rule.
I was surprised to read in his recent newsletter that he is promoting the Seligman audio call. As a matter of fact, he calls it "one of most powerful calls you've heard". With that endorsement, I am sure that Doug did indeed vet out this character and I invite him answer the question once and for all on this blog--just who the hell is Dr. Robert Seligman, PhD.?
Here is a copy of his most recent newsletter (I have taken out the HTML to make it more readable):
Want A Sneak Peak of The Convention? We don't know if you watch Good Morning America or not, but we wanted to give a "sneak peak" at what will be unveiled at the National Convention. Watch this news clip to see what Coach and Scott have in store for YOU! If you thought last year's Convention was amazing, you won't believe this year's incredible presentation. It's the MUST SEE, DON'T MISS event of the year!Just a few comments. There does not seem to be too much about travel in this latest newsletter; but he refers to himself indeed as a "travel agent". Apparently his wife is as well--well, I guess you got two ID cards when you signed up back in 2005.
Be numbered among the business builders, share the excitement, be a part of the awards and recognition, attend your choice of Training Seminars at YTB University on Wednesday and Thursday led by your field leaders, corporate team members, tax and legal professionals, and select vendors. YTB University is an EXCELLENT opportunity to learn how to build your YTB Business. NEW this year, you can register ahead of time for the classes held on Wednesday and Thursday with tickets to all the classes you want to attend. No more standing in line. No more disappointments that your class is full! But you need to register first! To get started, click the "Enroll in Courses" button found on the home page of your back office, or if you have already done so, you may view and edit your or your guests schedule by clicking the "View/Print Your Schedule" button.
Enjoy!
Doug & Ronda Bauknight AKA: TravelPro
Travel Agents / Network Marketers
YTB Travel Network YTB Announces New Board of Directors
It's been an incredible month with the Annual Report coming out on to start the month of April. Our stock listing moving to the OTC in the middle of the month. Now to close out the month, we find that Burt Saunders, a Florida State Legislator who was introduced at the National Convention was named to our Board of Directors. But news of former Carnival President and Chief Executive Officer Robert Dickinson to the YTB International Board of Directors as well is a MAJOR addition and adds tremendous credibility to our company! Robert was also recently interviewed in Travel Trade about his appointment to the Board of Directors. You can find the Press Release and we have also filed with the SEC as to their Compensatory Arrangements for being a Board Member.
Rick Ricketts Training Webinar
Rick Ricketts Join Rick and the Team at the Your Ticket to Paradise Center in Clearwater, FL. There will be a 9am-12pm training session & a 1pm- 4pm training session. Rick Ricketts Training Day Saturday May 3, 2008 Both trainings are the same. Seats are limited for this training. There are only 350 seats available each session, You can get tickets starting on April 22nd for this event. Learn How:
* To Create a Duplicable Recruiting System
* To make the First Contact in your warm & cold markets
* To Close! Director's will be teaching their own closing techniques...
You don't want to miss this informative Training from THE Leader in YTB, Rick Ricketts!
LIVE WEBCAST JUST ADDED!
Rick will be doing the AFTERNOON Training via a LIVE WEBCAST so if you can't make the training in person, you can still enjoy this informative information starting at 1:00 PM EST from the comfort of your own home! This Webcast does require Windows Media Player (Available for both PC and Mac) When: Saturday, May 3rd 1:00PM Eastern, 12:00PM Central 11:00AM Mountain, 10:00AM Pacific Get your folks to this webcast with this leader and member of The Circle of Champions to learn how to build your business!
Promote and Feature Your Director
ParadiseNetwork.com has been built with you, the agent, in mind. This is the way it has started and the way it will always be. Now you can let prospects not only read about but also see Directors they will be working with. Video interviews are now up and running of Level 2 Directors Tim & Georgia Dominey AND Level 1 Directors Terry & Pamela Graham. The time to make the switch from that 'other' marketing system to ParadiseNetwork.com is now! You can sign-up and get the first 10 days for 99 cents. Then it is just $9.95 a month after that.
CRTA Certification Classes
Get to a CRTA Training this month! Plug in and learn something new. There are RTA's who have been to dozens of CRTA Trainings and it's no surprise that they are building their business. Take a look at the schedule and get to a CRTA this month!
GEM Team Red Carpet Announced
YTB Red Carpet Day!
The next GEM Team Red Carpet Day is May 13 . While we know that some can only go & come the same day, BUT if you really want to get the full effect, Rick Ricketts will have his group over to his house on the Monday afternoon & night before (May 12th) for a cookout, & usually a trip over to the Coach's house (The Riverhouse!) This will be a GREAT Opportunity to meet both Rick and Coach on their "home turf"! (We've got to tell you, it's SOME turf!) Several hotels to stay at right there around the Convention Center in Collinsville, Il., which is where Red Carpet Day is held. There is no charge to attend Rep Carpet Day or for the luncheon. Please provide the following information when you request your reservations: RTA Name, YTB ID #, Your E-mail Address, Your Phone Number And any Guest's Name. (Bring as many Guests as you like!) Please send this information to redcarpet@ytb.com to attend. When your reservation is confirmed, you will receive an e-mail confirmation detailing the day's agenda, and directions from the Airport to the Office. If you are planning to come on Monday and would like to join Rick and Coach, please confirm you're intent to come @ ytbgemteam@comcast.net.
Tools and websites that work We have found a number of websites with Company Presentations we would like to share with you. Feel free to pass these around and have your prospects watch these in the comfort of their own home. www.Travelproincome.com
www.Travelproinsider.com
www.Paycationexperts.com
We have also found what is likely one of most powerful calls you've heard Bob Seligman, phD
We want you to succeed! We hope these tools are helpful, and we encourage your input and comments at any time. We hope to see you as a success in YTB this month!
Speak with you soon Doug & Ronda Bauknight AKA: TravelPro
Travel Agents / Network Marketers
YTB Travel Network
YTB Book of The Month
Each month we are going to recommend a book for you to read to help feed the mind and soul. We want you to be LEADERS and we believe it's important to always be learning and growing to help you take both your personal and professional lives to new levels. These books have helped us along the way and have impacted our lives with its message. It is our sincere desire that it will do the same for you. Order "Acres of Diamonds" Here Russell H. Conwell's "Acres of Diamonds" is this month's book of the month. Toward the end of his life, Russell H. Conwell (1843-1925) observed, "I am astonished that so many people should care to hear this story over again. Indeed, this lecture has become a study in psychology; it often breaks all rules of oratory, departs from the precepts of rhetoric, and yet remains the most popular of any lecture I have delivered in the fifty-seven years of my public life. I have sometimes studied for a year upon a lecture and made careful research, and then presented the lecture just once -- never delivered it again.
Brought To You By Doug & Ronda Bauknight
Doug & Ronda
"If You Had More Time and More Money...What Would YOU Do?" Just Picture It Now,
XXX XXXX XXXX XXXXX XXXXXX, GA XXXX US
To unsubscribe or change subscriber options visit: http://www.aweber.com/z/r/?rEzsTEzMtCyMT...=
For those who want to listen to Seligman, here is the link that was included in the newsletter:
http://clicks.aweber.com/y/ct/?l=DQWxF&m=1ZrqKdfV79nofP&b=vGrSXyA2VAUELjaVSc6L4g
There is talk about the prop YTB is using at the convention as being featured on Good Morning America. Not sure this is accurate. There was a local news show that highlighted the statue and it likely was aired during a GMA break, but it was NOT featured on GMA.
What happened to "if it ain't the truth don't say it."?
Nice job with the black font on the dark background. Can I go kill myself now?
ReplyDeleteJohn,
ReplyDeleteI saw this posted on a website....what do you think?
Looks to me like they are selling travel websites and offering access to FAM trips. Your thougts?
START-UP MANUAL. A comprehensive online manual on our Agent Only portal containing what you should know about getting your home-based business off the ground, sales, marketing and websites, making reservations, training and resource tools, commonly used travel agent forms and much more. It also contains a complete section dedicated to GROUP TRAVEL, CRUISE and HOTEL TRAINING. The online manual also includes your personal registrations with nearly 100 suppliers and booking engines.
Access to our professional affiliations with IATAN, CLIA, ASTA, NACTA, OSSN, TPOC, PATH, The NEST and The TRAVEL INSTITUTE.
Our Consortium, THE NEST gives access to marketing programs exclusively for your clients.
On-line booking engines that are Agent friendly including VAX, Amadeus Cruise, CCRA, Consolidator Shopper, Trip Tailor and many others. No need to pay for and learn about cumbersome GDS systems.
Local office support - our only business is supporting you. We have a huge selection of agent friendly booking engines and portals offering the highest commissions. Also includes continuous e-mail forwarding support of educational and industry information material.
Optional consumer and or agent booking engine for your website at a low monthly cost from Revelex..
Your own business with flexible hours. Your client data base always belongs to you.
Access to seminars and trade shows including seminars at sea.
Commissions are paid by check on the 15th and 31st of each month. You can also track your commissions via our exclusive "MY BOOKINGS' section in the Agent Only portal.
IATAN and CLIA photo ID cards, when qualified.
Fam trip and seminar at sea opportunities.
Your own branded professional website for $100 per year with supplier content provided by OnLine Agency.
E&O insurance is available for $125 per year
Monthly Newsletter and our exclusive Agent Forum and Message Center where you can ask questions and communicate with your fellowl travel agents.
Access to our Travel Training Courses. Click on TRAVEL TRAINING LINKS on our home page.
Access to resource books, training and destination videos.
XXX exclusive travel agent site l contains everything you need to operate your travel business in one location from booking engines, training, operating manuals, forms, important travel links and lots more..
Optional: A full featured client database system with e-marketing capabilities is available thru ClientEase. www.clientease.com
WE HAVE 2 PROGRAMS FROM WHICH TO CHOOSE
OUR STANDARD PROGRAM This program would be appropriate for the new or inexperienced agent with a limited client base and low sales volumn.
One-time sign up, includes your spouse and or partner ..........................................$295.00
Annual renewal membership participation fee due on each anniversary......$150.00
SOrry about the font. Corrected now. NEST is a consortium and they do not sell websites to the public. They also have minimum sales requirements!
ReplyDeleteJohn,
ReplyDeleteThey do sell to the public. And even say (coral sands travel) that they will help you get all the accredation you need. It also states nowhere in the contract that you need to have travel agent credentials prior to them taking your 295 dollar fee.
Here is the problem, your arguments are just very inconsistent.
I will agree that people who sell anything should be qualified in some capacity to do so.
But, if someone is acting as an IC with a host and they screw someone over, should the host be responsible? I don't think so.
John;
ReplyDeleteHate being back, but thought I should let you know up front.
That answer is no.
I’m done wasting my time helping you find meaning in your life as a “Travel Professional”.
If pounding a mystery PhD to death is your idea of saving this world from knowing that Expedia is the largest Internet Based Travel Company on the planet, and that you as an individual can benefit from doing the same thing Barry did, so be it.
I’ve already wasted enough time reading and responding to the vomit here.
Speaking of Martha… There’s no barf bags here. Have at it girl!
John,
ReplyDeleteThey do sell to the public. And even say (coral sands travel) that they will help you get all the accredation you need. It also states nowhere in the contract that you need to have travel agent credentials prior to them taking your 295 dollar fee.
Here is the problem, your arguments are just very inconsistent.
I will agree that people who sell anything should be qualified in some capacity to do so.
But, if someone is acting as an IC with a host and they screw someone over, should the host be responsible? I don't think so.
You know this DR. seligman thing, all he says is that Expedia was purcahsed for 5 billion and you can have the same thing for 450 bucks. What's the big deal?
ReplyDeleteUnlike an mlm, Peter over at Coral Sands is very committed to training, education, and ensuring that those using "travel agent" as their job title actually know what they are doing. He also started STARS, which has very strict requirements for membership.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.thebrighteststars.com/home.asp
And here I was thinking I would never have to see Doug back on this blog. But he just can't stay away, kind of like that stray dog that you feed.
ReplyDeleteBut then again he usually posts as anonymous. Please go back to touting websites Doug..you definitely aren't a "travel pro".
Kate,
ReplyDeleteIf YTB were to focus on training AND allowing people to recruit new RTAs who would be required to be trained would it be ok?
If YTB had a minimum training requirement then yes it would be ok. Having a 140,000 new agents who could at the very least pass the TAP test would be good for the industry.
ReplyDeleteOur issue has always been that mlm agents have damaged the credibility of all agents by allowing untrained, uneducated members to refer to themselves as travel agents. More so than damaging the credibility of a TTA, its damaged the MLM agent's credibility. Everybody seems to think that the founders of YTB are so smart. I would never allow someone with no training to represent my company. I can't believe they have allowed it. And it shows in your numbers. With over 80% producing no sales, it's clear there is a lot of room for improvement.
One of the "M"s in mlm stands for marketing. By not knowing anything about travel, and only referring people to your site, you are missing out on a huge opportunity to upsell and upgrade your clients, and create clients who TRUST you and will book with you for years to come. That, to me, seems like very poor marketing.
I booked a trip last week for $6300. the client's original budget was $4000. By showing them the fantastic options that were available, they quickly upgraded. Your YTB website cannot do that, nor can your untrained masses.
Think about it...
Wow,
ReplyDeleteKate nice job in this economy taking someone with a budget of 4000 and showing them that they should really spend 6300. Way to go. Way to improve credibility with the customer. If they saw your post here what would they think? YTB damages credibility by not overcharging? Nice
I did not over charge the client. I helped them upgrade their package so they would have a much more enjoyable time.
ReplyDeleteIf you don't know the difference between upgrading and over charging, you are an idiot.
Yes, you upgraded them to have an enjoyable time but YOU exceeded their budget by over 50%!!!!!
ReplyDeleteI could go into a car dealership with a budget of 10,000 but the dealer can show me how I would have a much better time in Mercedes with that type of upgrade.
Sure, you got your customer more product but how dare you sell them something 50% higher then their budget. Well, they will have a nice time for a week but will have to cut out food this month.
Way to upgrade oh credible one!
Oh, I know the difference. Yes, you upgraded them to have an enjoyable time but YOU exceeded their budget by over 50%!!!!!
ReplyDeleteI could go into a car dealership with a budget of 10,000 but the dealer can show me how I would have a much better time in Mercedes with that type of "upgrade".
Sure, you got your customer more product but how dare you sell them something 50% higher then their budget. Well, they will have a nice time for a week but will have to cut out food this month. But, don't worry because you are a travel expert and now have a higher comission so your customer can have a more enjoyable time.
I am sure you had no problem taking their credit card too. This way, they don't have to pay until next month.
Way to upgrade oh credible one!
Well, maybe credibility isn't the correct word more like a lack of intergrity.
If a customer came to me with a 4000 budget, if I wanted them to have a more enjoyable time I would offer them upgraded accommodations but tell them to stay in budget why not go for 5 days instead of 7.
But, no, you wanted the comission.
NICE
Really? We have to have this conversation?? OK. This is how it works.
ReplyDeleteFirst you get to know your client-what they want, what they like, what they don't like. Then you talk about their options and budget. Then you help them find something they like within that has the options they want and works within their budget. It's called a sales process. This is a client that could well afford the upgrade. You learn these things by qualifing the client.
Your comments only prove what we've been saying all along. Travel mlms are a bad idea. Clearly you have no idea how to market or how a sales process works. Your comments speak for themselves.
Kate you mentioned in your post that upselling creates trust????
ReplyDeleteI would say that you should have shown them the higher priced option but decreased the number of days so they could have stayed within budget. THAT WOULD HAVE SHOWN TRUST.
Now, your customer will get their credit card bill and likely remind themselves how they were "convinced" to spend 50% more then they had budgeted and either not go to you again, or have a big black eye for the whole travel agent industry.
Not YTB screwing things, but swindlers like you!
You can't be in YTB and argue ethics. You take $495 plus $50 per month from people every day who are never going to make a dime in travel,or receive any of the perks that are claimed in your recruiting videos. Look at your income statement from last year. How many people did you take $495 from that never made a dime?
ReplyDeleteOk,
ReplyDeleteKATE so you are saying you know your customer better then they know themselves. I can picture the conversation.....
"welcome to Kate's travel agency Mr. and Mrs. Smith, nice to see you again."
"you want to go see XYZ for 4,000?"
"Yes I know the economy is tough, but since I know you better than you know yourselves and YOU TRUST me, why not spend $6,300"
"it is a nice upgrade and you could "WELL AFFORD THE UPGRADE" remember I know you better than you know yourselves."
"what you heard of a travel MLM with a website, and the person respected your wishes and honored your budget??/ Well, that clearly is bad for the travel industry."
"OK have a nice trip"
Actually, I can agure ethics as I am ethical as a person. To answer your question, since OCT 2006 I have personally "taken" 450 plus 50 from 22 people, not a single one has dropped out, and EVERY single one has benefitted their bottom line. See what most of you don't realize when you look at the income statement or the numbers is this...many people aren't in it for full time pay. I had a friend who signed up, went on a cruise with 3 other families, they all booked through my friends site, total comission was 2200. That is almost 3 years in YTB if they do nothing else. Guess what? They just booked a trip for themselves to France, not a major comission but still money in their pocket that they wouldn't get if they went through travelocity like that had always done in the past.
ReplyDeleteI CAN argue ethics on a PERSONAL level.
Another anonymous poster, unwilling to stand behind what they type, posted a bunch of stuff taken from the Coral Sand Travel website.
ReplyDeleteYes, Coral Sands Travel does take on some folks that are newbies to the Travel Agent field. However, they provide real travel training and point you to other places that provide additional training. While I don't agree with everything Peter Stilphen does or says, I know for a fact that his company is a legitimate travel agency, as I got my start with CST some number of years ago. Also remember that everyone in the profession was an unexperienced new agent at some point.
A few distinctions should be made between CST and the MLM companies. 1) CST is not an MLM company. 2) While CST does mention FAM trips, they don't encourage them, nor do they support you for them until you have been able to earn your IATAN card. Note the word "earn". 3) All of the free booking engines mentioned are available free to any travel agent to use. You simply provide your booking information (IATA, CLIA, TRUE, etc. number and other info), and it is set up for you to use. 4) They do provide websites (optional) for their agents to use, as do many other host agencies. 5) CST's focus is on selling travel, not recruiting. The people that join them will not make a dime if they don't sell travel.
So, what was your point with that posting?
It's called QUALIFYing a customer, something they teach in all travel sales classes.
ReplyDeleteKate was not holding a gun to the clients head and forcing them to spend more, she presented options, the client makes the final decision.
Not all clients are driven by lowest price, a concept that most YTB "agents" don't seem to grasp.
Many clients aren't affected by the change in the economy yet either...
I have been at trade shows, conferences where there is a YTB contingent. I have actually talked to a lot of YTB RTA's and am constantly amazed not only by the lack of industry knowledge but the blatant statements made by RTA's they do NOT have any interest in the travel industry other than making money and traveling for free. Most are in other MLM's, most are in it very part-time and most lack BASIC industry knowledge and terminology. One woman told me she was cutting and bailing on the ship inspections at 360 because she found them, "Worthless, boring and a waste of time." Why was she even there????? I have been in CLIA classes next to RTA's when they have sat and either doodles through the class or text messaged and not paid any attention. One guy with a YTB badge asked what an ACC was. He did not have a clue. Sure, there are some that want to learn but the majority do not. As for YTB hiring people without industry knowledge or credibility, YTB doesn't care a bit. All YTB cares about is selling more websites. Cash in on the trillion dollar baby boom generation traveling. It's a money making machine for them. So why should they care if their lemmings learn the business. All that is requires is RTA's sell a downline and if you can't recruit it's everyone's fault but YTB's. You aren't trying hard enough, it's the TTA's fault, we gave you the tools and you can't succeed. Bunch of phooey. YTB gets away with it because of CLIA and the other suppliers who don't care where the money comes from. And YTB preys on the vulnerable, the down and out, people looking for a quick, get rich scheme, people with mental issues, people who see the world and YTB through rose colored glasses, people on welfare or in jail. That is the average YTB rep. Those with any intelligence get out fast and if they want to sell travel join a legit host while the other pathtetic reps hang in there waiting for their chance at the brass ring.
ReplyDeleteYTB is a disgrace and has no credibility. And, those that defend them to death don't have any either.
Joe said..."It's called QUALIFYing a customer, something they teach in all travel sales classes.
ReplyDeleteKate was not holding a gun to the clients head and forcing them to spend more, she presented options, the client makes the final decision.
Not all clients are driven by lowest price, a concept that most YTB "agents" don't seem to grasp.
Many clients aren't affected by the change in the economy yet either..."
No one in YTB is holding a gun to anyone's head either. They present the opportunity, the individual makes the CHOICE!!! Why is that personal decision bad but a personal decision to go over budget by 50% is OK?
Because the decision to upgrade a trip and getting sucked into a pyramid scheme under the pretense that you will magically become a travel agent and make millions in your sleep are two totally different things.
ReplyDeleteGet it?
Well, I get THAT, but that is YOUR opinion of what is said to prospects and generally untrue.
ReplyDeleteI use generally because there are bad eggs. Every YTB sanctioned presentation mentions no guaratee of success, every one that I have been to states that you have to work and put effort in if you want to succeed.
There are bad apples in every bunch. Like on the TTA side where agents are suckering customers into overspending when they clearly stated a budget.
If I had a real estate agent and told him i had a 300,000 budget for a home and all he showed me was 500,000 homes because they were better and I would enjoy them more, I would tell him to "f**k off"
OK I think we have totally gotten off track here. The subject of today's blog is supposed to be about the alledged Dr Seligman, Phd. There are still many claims about this good doctor that no one seems able to back up. Can we please get back to this topic?
ReplyDeleteAnonymous said...
ReplyDeleteYou know this DR. seligman thing, all he says is that Expedia was purcahsed for 5 billion and you can have the same thing for 450 bucks. What's the big deal?
For me, the big deal is truthfulness. The recording is employing a PhD credential for validation purposes of the message's believability. If the speaker's PhD credential doesn't exist, it invalidates the message's believability.
You know nothing about the "sales process".
ReplyDeleteI listen to my client - I ask lots of questions and we determine together what it is they require/want from their vacation. Often, I have to say, "you're not going to get that in your budget .... if you must have those "things", that "experience" than we would have to increase the budget by $XXXX. If your budget is truly what you are telling me and you must have the above, perhaps we can cut the number of days, or we can look at other, less convenient air schedules/routings, or we can down grade rooms...." Most of the time, a client who has an unrealistically low budget for what s/he absolutely requries, will increase the budget. I don't feel badly about that at all...
I had an older (70s) couple last week looking to book Cruise West - we started out with about a $14k cruise to include air. But they felt they really wanted the Denali add-on and they really wanted first class air (he is 6'3"), and they really wanted a specific cabin category and they were telling me their budget was $15k. Well, just can't do all that for that money. So, in the end the put out a totel of $21930.20 - of that $3529.80 was the First Class air and $18400.40 was cruise, pre-night hotel, Denali extension, and insurance. It is my job to get them what they want, not what I think they want...should I have tried to sell them down to a less expensive cruiseline when they'd made clear they wanted a small ship experience? Should I have convinced them to go with HAL perhaps? It's coincidental that my take onthis is just over $2800.00 (with no commission on the air portion). I may have "sold them up" but I got them everything they required. That's what Kate's talking about. By the way, the client thanked me over and over again - she had been trying to work this out for herself - including dealing with US to try to do the air on Frequent Flyer points.... she said, "I think I'd have to kill myself if I were a TA. I can't believe how much you have to know and how creative you have to be to make things work!"
CTA in MD
Just a few comments from me between appointments!
ReplyDeleteDoug--thanks for being honest enough to admit that you just put the Seligman "endorsement" without any verification as to authenticity. Says a lot about you. At least when I am wrong, I will admit to it. So, there you have it, as long as it is told to Doug...he will pass it along as the Gospel!
As to the significance of Seligman. It is not his claim about the cost of Expedia but that YTB has taken this apparent fraud and perpetuated it. This piece of trash audio is on multiple directors' sites as well as DOug and he is a Coach Corner Member. Goes to prove that YTB will say anything and do anything.
Upselling a client. Sometimes a client does not know what is available. Your website certainly does not tell them. Any website will give the client what they ask for, but if they do not know that there is another option out there, they may have an OK time as opposed to a great time. Of course the client has the ultimate say so.
To the person who made the mention about the credit card---as opposed to what, writing a check out to the RTA who will pay the vendor (wink wink)
But, the topic of this post is that Seligman still remains a fraud and it is apparent that Doug is perpetuating it.
Doug, by the way you were busted with your comment about hating to come back...you seem to know Martha all too well to have just popped in to respond.
Anonymous said...
ReplyDeleteYou know this DR. seligman thing, all he says is that Expedia was purcahsed for 5 billion and you can have the same thing for 450 bucks. What's the big deal?
Another thing Anon:
Over the past weekend I found out a Pastor friend of mine received his PhD in February 2008. Today, I did a google search on this individual and guess what, I found him on the first page of my google search by searching by his first and last name. His name is Jon Eliff.
Try doing a google search on Seligman? Nothing.
Today I verified through Googling Jon Eliff indeed holds a Ph.D. which is an education of Doctor of Philosophy.
Today I verified through Googling Bob Seligman's Ph.D. cannot be verified stands so the only PHD Seligman earned is the Piled Higher and Deeper!
This indeed does hurt the YTB jangle, "If it ain't truth, don't say it".
Doug has once again proven that truth means little when selling websites is involved. But, I already knew that. I can't believe anyone at YTB is idiotic enough to bring up Seligman but recruiting desperation makes strange bedfellows. With this economy getting people to shell out 500 + 50x12 may not be so easy and all the hooks are necessary.
ReplyDeleteAs to the upgrade sale, how do any of you know that this up selling didn't actually save the client $$ in the long run...ie AI vs not? Most of my clients also low ball the budget but are happy to increase it to get what they want.
This indeed does hurt the YTB jangle, "If it ain't truth, don't say it".
ReplyDeleteI meant to say "YTB jingle".
Correct Spelling is Dr. Jon Elliff.
ReplyDeleteIf the traveling couple were travel agents (e.g. in YTB), they could write off the $6300 trip. If they are in a 1/3 bracket, that same trip would cost $4200. They would also earn a commission on booking their own travel.
ReplyDeletetravel agents don't belong to YTB. they are called RTA's just to remind you. And remember, vacations are not tax deductable unless you are not on vacation but actually working.
ReplyDeleteI realize YTB does not care about the distinction but I can assure you that the IRS does. I love how you guys thumb yoour nose at our government. So patriotic!
"If the traveling couple were travel agents (e.g. in YTB), they could write off the $6300 trip. If they are in a 1/3 bracket, that same trip would cost $4200. They would also earn a commission on booking their own travel."
ReplyDeleteROTFLMAO! You people really are clueless.
Yep totally clueless. I am a travel agent, with an IATA card no less, and it would cost me more than $4200.00. You are dreaming!
ReplyDeleteTTAs and all -
ReplyDeleteLively banter back and forth.
TTAs - we do not profess to be like you. I do not want your job. You do a good service with your clients. They are happy. You are happy.
I sell an online travel business for the average person. It is legal, the whole process pays well and allows my RTAs to have a great home business. Some of my RTAs sell a lot of travel, some sell a moderate amount and some sell a small amount.
A home business has some great benefits contrary to what the "experts" on this site may think. Just ask the many CPAs on my Team. They love YTB.
Rod -
Your multiple personalities are showing again.
"I love YTB".
"I hate YTB".
Happy travel sales.
YTB and TRAVEL: A Great Mix!
Speaking of flowers...USA Weekend had a blub on ordering flowers online and cautioned against using an ordering process with a middleman, aka YTB. As the article stated, they take a commission and pass the order on. Your flowers arrive DOA you will have a difficult time getting replacemants. Just an FYI for Mom's Day. and if YTB doesn't like it take it up with USA Weekend.
ReplyDeleteThis actually sounds a lot like they do travel too.
Anonymous said...
ReplyDeleteTTAs and all -
Rod -
Your multiple personalities are showing again.
"I love YTB".
"I hate YTB".
Anon, What do you say about Seligman? Multiple persaonalities? I don't think so. This has nothing to do with personality. It's all about "If it ain't true, don't say it."
"I sell an online travel business for the average person. It is legal, the whole process pays well and allows my RTAs to have a great home business. Some of my RTAs sell a lot of travel, some sell a moderate amount and some sell a small amount."
ReplyDeleteFunny, a while ago you were crying you were not making ANY money. Which is it? Please get some help Rod.
As to Doug-Why so nasty? Hungover or what?
YTB-Trading 1 Addiction for Another.
Hey I have an idea! Since you are all so tight with Seligman, why don't you direct him over here to the blog so he can explain who he is and end all this bickering?
ReplyDeleteIt appears that Doug has said this:
ReplyDeleteI sell an online travel business for the average person. It is legal, the whole process pays well and allows my RTAs to have a great home business. Some of my RTAs sell a lot of travel, some sell a moderate amount and some sell a small amount.
What happened to all the BS you were spewing about being in it to sell travel. Remember how you worked with the clients and the suppliers. Remember the river cruise you sold. Remember you got into this because you love cruising so much and wanted to sell cruises....
So what happened...the travel end of YTB not paying the bills? Figured that if you were gonna make ANY money you needed to be repping and not RTAing? Well, How's that working out for you? Have you gotten off the Coaches Couch yet?
Anonymous said...
ReplyDelete"I sell an online travel business for the average person. It is legal, the whole process pays well and allows my RTAs to have a great home business. Some of my RTAs sell a lot of travel, some sell a moderate amount and some sell a small amount."
Funny, a while ago you were crying you were not making ANY money. Which is it? Please get some help Rod.
As to Doug-Why so nasty? Hungover or what?
1) You didn't answer my question -- What about Seligman.
2) The average person would love to join YTB IF people would advertise honestly. Can you prove to me there is really a Dr. Seligman? If not, I question your morality and everything you say.
3) I'm not being nasty to Doug. I'm holding him accountable. That's what friends are for.
4) I'm still crying I'm not making any money.
Not a problem John, I just figured we’d get the credibility issue out of the way before I went to all the trouble like last time.
ReplyDeleteLike my drinking, I’ve learned to call it quits concerning issues I have no chance of winning no matter what facts or figures are presented.
You mentioned somewhere along the lines of your dog knows not to do something again when you smack him in the nozzle.
I asked myself, if I had to take the time to answer your stupid questions all over again, would I? Waste all that time and energy again only to have all of you question and condemn my credibility anyway no matter what I say?
At least I'm as smart as your dog. (And I know that aint sayin' much.)
The big difference between successful people and unsuccessful people is being able to learn from mistakes and move on.
Attempting to educate any of you was a HUGE mistake and I just decided to take my lumps now, move on, and have an absolutely outstanding day while you and the other chums here bicker all day about something you have absolutley no control over.
It’s a choice guys and gals, and I choose to let you waste your own time, not mine.
PS – That bit about admitting when you’re wrong. VERY FUNNY. I enjoyed that.
Look guys Doug says he is leaving again. And we all know how he stands by his words now don't we. I suspect by the end of the week he will be back posting as some othere anonymous YTB Rep who is not making a single penny.
ReplyDelete"Hey I have an idea! Since you are all so tight with Seligman, why don't you direct him over here to the blog so he can explain who he is and end all this bickering?"
ReplyDeleteGreat idea. We would love to meet Dr. Seligman. And while you are at it can you bring in Santa, The Easter Bunny, and The Tooth Fairy. I would love to hear their explanation how they get in and out of my house undetected....
Is anyone fluent in stock info? I see that CoaCH SOLD 600K shares back in December, but it did not show up on insider trading till recently--how does that happen. Also Cauthen sold 100K shares and I don't remember seeing that either.
ReplyDeleteTravelPro said...
ReplyDelete"John;
Hate being back, but thought I should let you know up front.
That answer is no.
I’m done wasting my time helping you find meaning in your life as a “Travel Professional”.
If pounding a mystery PhD to death is your idea of saving this world from knowing that Expedia is the largest Internet Based Travel Company on the planet, and that you as an individual can benefit from doing the same thing Barry did, so be it.
I’ve already wasted enough time reading and responding to the vomit here.
Speaking of Martha… There’s no barf bags here. Have at it girl!"
As I've stated many times, Doug is a coward and now he's a liar. Proven, no doubt left at all. He "moved on" but made 2 posts today, including this piece of avoidance garbage. He can't answer the question honestly, so he will avoid it just like all cowards do. He knows Seligman is a fake, an embarrassment, and was paid by YTB. Will he ever admit it? I'd say about the same odds in admitting there is a full vodka bottle stashed in his dresser.
Here is a remark from his lastest bog: "I realize that Traditional Travel Agents make this industry sound intimidating in terms of all you have to know and learn. Trust me, it aint all that. If an average American can book travel on their own from Travelocity, Orbitz, Expedia and Priceline to the tune of $40 Billion dollars without any training, even a Caveman can do what these TTA’s do."
I guess that's why Doug makes 15K a year and I make over 4 times that amount. I don't have to recruit either. Then again, he also touts his MAKING YOU A TRAVEL AGENT business. So not only did he slash the TTA's throats, he slashed the throats of the people he's trying to recruit into being a genuine and real travel agent (which he claims you will be with YTB).
Can Doug possibly become any more of a hypocrite and weenie? Yes, he's a "travel-pro" alright. I just wish he hadn't fallen for me since I don't do married men and especially married men that don't work. I'm not fond of government cheese.
This blog sucks. The people backing YTB here are so ignorant... it's not even funny. It's sad... Reminds me of a trailer trash hick dressed up in a suit and pretending he's a travel agent. In one defense, they're selling travel, in another, a business opportunity (pyramid scheme). When they GOT SHUT DOWN in RI, they were voluntarily complying with "crooked" lawmakers who were apparently being "influenced by mafia like travel agents." This was the explanation given down the line from the top of the RI pyramid. The only difference today is that there are so many MLM companies out there...making claims like, "We're a publicly traded company, so of course we're legit." Like being publicly traded means your company isn't involved in any unethical and/or illegal business practices...
ReplyDeleteanonymous said:
ReplyDelete"This blog sucks. The people backing YTB here are so ignorant... it's not even funny. It's sad... Reminds me of a trailer trash hick dressed up in a suit and pretending he's a travel agent. In one defense, they're selling travel, in another, a business opportunity (pyramid scheme). When they GOT SHUT DOWN in RI, they were voluntarily complying with "crooked" lawmakers who were apparently being "influenced by mafia like travel agents." This was the explanation given down the line from the top of the RI pyramid. The only difference today is that there are so many MLM companies out there...making claims like, "We're a publicly traded company, so of course we're legit." Like being publicly traded means your company isn't involved in any unethical and/or illegal business practices..."
Feel better, now?
Wonderful ramblings by a true mental giant.
It makes me feel SO bad.
A bunch of TTAs chums bickering back and forth.
Great description, Doug.
YTB and TRAVEL: A Great Mix!
Doug,
ReplyDeleteStill trying to figure out why you post under your name then as anonymous. If you think you can sneak in a bad rap about TTAs while remaining anonymous then you really are a idiot. I think that fake sunburn you have in your profile picture is melting your brain.
YTB and TRAVEL...A BAD MIX!
Hey nice blog my friend. There are indeed variety of benefits to working at home and there are many work at home business opportunities.For some people with young children or elderly parents that they must care for, working at home is the only way to have a career.I really appreciate nice info on your blog.Keep up the good work.
ReplyDeleteytbscam -
ReplyDeleteStick to stock quotes.
I'm not Doug, but I think Doug does a great job.
Have you gotten a promotion yet at McDonalds?
YTB and TRAVEL: A Great Mix!
AssOle is that you?
ReplyDelete