Several people have asked how they can effectively make complaints about their experiences with either or both the ISN (David Wright's Innovators Group, Book-a-Speaker, etc) or Willow Mist which is Brenda Keefer's organization, separate from David Wright's organization.... Brenda used to work at ISN before... well... you can read about why Brenda's relationship with ISN terminated.
Here are some options for making your complaint as of early 2012:
• Complain to the Knoxville, Tennessee Better Business Bureau. You should know that ISN / Innovators Group changed their name, probably around 2010. When they were still called ISN, they had an F rating but now they just have a string of complaints, all presumably resolved. I'm going to guess that they were resolved like mine was - meaning - they lied to the BBB about my case and the BBB closed the case.
Willow Mist / Brenda Keefer currently has an F rating. Be warned.
• File a Ripoff Report They already have a file on ISN. They have several reports as listed under Innovators Group.
• File a report with the Complaint Board They have a file on ISN and Willow Mist here, too.
• File a report with the Tennessee Attorney General's office. You can do this for either the Innovators Group or Willow Mist.
• Willow Mist - one man in California is interested in having Brenda arrested for interstate web fraud.
Showing posts with label international speaker's network. Show all posts
Showing posts with label international speaker's network. Show all posts
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Grief Saved and Grief Explained - Some End of Year Statistics and Notes
As 2011 comes to a close, I thought I would share some statistics with you about this blog, Burned by ISN, and its impact. My report comes on the heels of receiving yet another report of someone who was almost taken by ISN. It's always so good to hear from others who have been saved from their bad, and often illegal, business practices!
It's been almost 5 years ago that I started blogging about the International Speakers Network and how they burned me by taking almost $1000 of my money, then never producing what they promised. I signed on to get their support in building my speaking practice, I was supposed to be a part of a "Five Featured Speakers" program - which never materialized.
Not only didn't it materialize, but they sent me falsified materials trying to prove that it did! You can learn more about just how they duped me on this blog's first post.
But I'm a true believer in karma, and sometimes it's important to put karma into motion. Thus this blog, and dozens of posts over the years that have inspired even more comments from either people who have found us in time to save their grief, or others who have found us too late, and realized when they found us that they, too, had been duped by the International Speaker's Network.
What has transpired during these years? A few statistics for you:
Number of posts: 49
Number of visitors: you can see on the right hand side of this page. As of today: 10,824
Number of comments: 66 published, plus one that is unpublished. The one that is not published was sent to me a few years ago by a young woman who had just been fired because she had uncovered the ISN's wrongdoing. We have been in touch and I continue to hold her information in case it's ever needed.
Number of names that ISN has used over the years: 6 - or there may be more I haven't found. So far I know about ISN, International Speakers Network, ISNWorks, Innovators Group, Insight Publishing, Book A Speaker. If you know of others, will you let me know?
About Willow Mist Professional Services: Around June 2008, Brenda Keefer left ISN and started Willow Mist Professional Services. Evidently that's when David Wright, the owner and her boss at ISN, discovered Brenda was still on probation for stealing about $250,000 from a previous employer. So now Brenda is "helping" (or more like helping herself to the money of) people through her own company, Willow Mist. David Wright was smart to fire her. But now Brenda is making his life miserable. Perhaps more karma?
(Just FYI - I hear from as many who have been duped by Brenda Keefer as I do from people who have been duped by ISN - the emails run about 50-50).
Number of Lawsuits against ISN: I have no idea. I have heard reports, but haven't been able to take the time to research them. This comment from a reader explains the one about those famous authors they promise to pair you with.
By the way - don't let that BBB Accredited Business logo on their homepage fool you. In late 2010, The International Speaker's Network changed their name to The Innovators Group - and that meant their old track record at the BBB, an F rating, went away. Now they have an A+ rating through the Knoxville Better Business Bureau - but if you look at the record you'll see that many complaints have been "resolved."
I have to wonder whether those complaints were resolved as mine was - meaning - they were ignored, then lies were told, and in the end who knows? I call this my "naked picture theory" - meaning - someone is holding something over someone else's head. Once the BBB told me my complaints were 'resolved", and what I knew was that nothing had been resolved, and somehow my complaints had been swept under the rug, I lost all respect for the Better Business Bureau because of the way that was handled.
As long as I continue to hear from readers who have either had their money stolen like mine was, or realized ahead of time that they should not do business with ISN or Willow Mist because they found this information, I will continue to post from time to time.
What information would you like to share about ISN Works (or whatever they are calling themselves these days?) Shoot me a quick email: BurnedbyISN - at - hotmail.
It's been almost 5 years ago that I started blogging about the International Speakers Network and how they burned me by taking almost $1000 of my money, then never producing what they promised. I signed on to get their support in building my speaking practice, I was supposed to be a part of a "Five Featured Speakers" program - which never materialized.
Not only didn't it materialize, but they sent me falsified materials trying to prove that it did! You can learn more about just how they duped me on this blog's first post.
But I'm a true believer in karma, and sometimes it's important to put karma into motion. Thus this blog, and dozens of posts over the years that have inspired even more comments from either people who have found us in time to save their grief, or others who have found us too late, and realized when they found us that they, too, had been duped by the International Speaker's Network.
What has transpired during these years? A few statistics for you:
Number of posts: 49
Number of visitors: you can see on the right hand side of this page. As of today: 10,824
Number of comments: 66 published, plus one that is unpublished. The one that is not published was sent to me a few years ago by a young woman who had just been fired because she had uncovered the ISN's wrongdoing. We have been in touch and I continue to hold her information in case it's ever needed.
Number of names that ISN has used over the years: 6 - or there may be more I haven't found. So far I know about ISN, International Speakers Network, ISNWorks, Innovators Group, Insight Publishing, Book A Speaker. If you know of others, will you let me know?
About Willow Mist Professional Services: Around June 2008, Brenda Keefer left ISN and started Willow Mist Professional Services. Evidently that's when David Wright, the owner and her boss at ISN, discovered Brenda was still on probation for stealing about $250,000 from a previous employer. So now Brenda is "helping" (or more like helping herself to the money of) people through her own company, Willow Mist. David Wright was smart to fire her. But now Brenda is making his life miserable. Perhaps more karma?
(Just FYI - I hear from as many who have been duped by Brenda Keefer as I do from people who have been duped by ISN - the emails run about 50-50).
Number of Lawsuits against ISN: I have no idea. I have heard reports, but haven't been able to take the time to research them. This comment from a reader explains the one about those famous authors they promise to pair you with.
By the way - don't let that BBB Accredited Business logo on their homepage fool you. In late 2010, The International Speaker's Network changed their name to The Innovators Group - and that meant their old track record at the BBB, an F rating, went away. Now they have an A+ rating through the Knoxville Better Business Bureau - but if you look at the record you'll see that many complaints have been "resolved."
I have to wonder whether those complaints were resolved as mine was - meaning - they were ignored, then lies were told, and in the end who knows? I call this my "naked picture theory" - meaning - someone is holding something over someone else's head. Once the BBB told me my complaints were 'resolved", and what I knew was that nothing had been resolved, and somehow my complaints had been swept under the rug, I lost all respect for the Better Business Bureau because of the way that was handled.
As long as I continue to hear from readers who have either had their money stolen like mine was, or realized ahead of time that they should not do business with ISN or Willow Mist because they found this information, I will continue to post from time to time.
What information would you like to share about ISN Works (or whatever they are calling themselves these days?) Shoot me a quick email: BurnedbyISN - at - hotmail.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
ISN Responds!
Found in a comment to the last blog post about Brenda Keefer.... this one from ISN where Brenda learned how to run a speakers network:
And you know what? They are right. It's unfair to blame ISN for Brenda Keefer's current modus operendi. She's been on her own for almost two years.
However -- ISN -- how do you explain the lack of follow through while Brenda was still in your employ? Or the dozens of other comments made by dozens of other people YOU have taken money from without delivering since Brenda left?
You don't want to be painted with the Brenda brush, but how do you explain all these other people who have felt scammed in the two years since she left? And how do you explain the many filings with the Better Business Bureau?
Sorry -- but Brenda's departure doesn't explain any of those, does it?
I am compelled to comment as there are so many facts not being stated here and harming our reputation.
Fact 1: Brenda Keefer is not and employee of ISN and hasn't been since March 4, 2008. Nor does her business Willow Mist have any association with our company.
Fact 2: Start a blog titled Brenda Keefer and Willow Mist and stop placing false information on this blog. She cut her teeth by being a bad individual and apparently doesn't plan to change her spots. That said our company should not be targeted for another companies faults.
It is unfortunate that you feel burned but presenting false information is a crime and unfair to ISN.
And you know what? They are right. It's unfair to blame ISN for Brenda Keefer's current modus operendi. She's been on her own for almost two years.
However -- ISN -- how do you explain the lack of follow through while Brenda was still in your employ? Or the dozens of other comments made by dozens of other people YOU have taken money from without delivering since Brenda left?
You don't want to be painted with the Brenda brush, but how do you explain all these other people who have felt scammed in the two years since she left? And how do you explain the many filings with the Better Business Bureau?
Sorry -- but Brenda's departure doesn't explain any of those, does it?
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Looks Like Brenda is On the Hunt
A comment today from a previous post about Willow Mist and ISN, International Speakers Network -- reprinted here:
You're welcome!
One more person saved from this grief!
Thank you all for your posts. I was just contacted by Brenda herself with a list of several venues that "could use my speaking expertise". I was asked only for a $95 upfront fee in exchange for 15% of the booking fee and 5000 emails sent out on my behalf. I had already filled out the paperwork and was about to push send, when I recognized the address was Tennessee. I remembered the scamming international Speaker's Network and decided to check for comments. THANK YOU ALL. We NEED to warn speakers and authors. People lost thousands with International, but no one wants to lose $95. How can we eradicate these predators of the fair and good?
You're welcome!
One more person saved from this grief!
Monday, December 7, 2009
Yet Another Scammed Speaker
I heard from Annabelle (not her real name) with the following...
In the meantime, they must be busy with their emails because the numbers of visits to this site LEAPED in the past month... hopefully we saved some folks grief and money.
Has this blog stopped you from signing up to lose your money, too? Please let us know: burnedbyISN (at) hotmail.com
Thanks for taking the time to let me know that others have been scammed by ISN and Brenda. I was scammed by both. It is a shame that they are allowed to stay in business. I have been a professional speaker for 21 years and wanted to spread my wings into another category since I just completed my next book. Very clear about what I wanted, they gave me all kinds of assurances for bookings. Without going into detail, they made commitments and did not follow through. Their bad business practices cost me time, money and disappointment.
In the meantime, they must be busy with their emails because the numbers of visits to this site LEAPED in the past month... hopefully we saved some folks grief and money.
Has this blog stopped you from signing up to lose your money, too? Please let us know: burnedbyISN (at) hotmail.com
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
This Time It's Brenda Keefer and Willow Mist
Heard today from Eileen, who sent me this email (reprinted with her permission, by the way....)
First off I want to thank you for blogging…… ………I have never used it before but I was following my gut instinct about Brenda Keefer after they took me for $1000.00 bucks of very hard earned monies…………so after hunting the internet I found your pages……Though I am glad that I did it also pissed me off even more that I fell into her web of lies……..
I get this personal phone call from her and it was good…………and struggling to keep speaking and laughing I agreed to her services….but after month one my tummy said something was not right…….but then hey there are no guarantees in this business so I continue on the journey with her into month 2……. again my gut is aching so I call her to explain to her that I am not liking her way of communications and ask for changes……….. you know the answer…….. ”No problem” …. And of course still no communications during the month……
Now I get this phone call from another company called Innovators Group but strangely enough they are in the same small town that Brenda lives in… strange for a little country town I thought since I live in Tennessee...When I mentioned this on the phone to them they get nervous and cut the call short saying they will call me back to speak to me about writing a chapter in a book with others…and of course I have never heard from them again.…..now I really have a belly ache and then I find your blog………….. NOW I want my monies back and I want these people to join Bernie Maddoff ........
There has to be a way to shut them down…………… and I can tell you I am on a mission now…… And yes I am pissed off……….. but I’ll laugh my way through this one…………… Eileen
Zebras don't change their stripes. Brenda, a convicted felon and owner of Willow Mist Professional Services, cut her teeth for years at the International Speakers Network (Innovators Group). They taught her the ropes -- how to take YOUR money.
I hope this post convinces you to hang on to it.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
ISN at the Complaint Board, Too
It's been awhile since posting..... because I finished writing my book and it is now in the publishing process. A very exciting time!
But I didn't want to forget one of my missions, and that is, to make sure that as few people as possible are being burned by the International Speaker's Network. Because yes, ISN is still out there, scamming people left and right.
A new tool for those of you who have already lost your money to them. It's called the Complaint Board. I've just added my complaint, and I would encourage you to do the same.
The Complaint Board
If you write to them, please let me know! I'll highlight your notations. Write to me at burnedbyisn (at) hotmail.com.
But I didn't want to forget one of my missions, and that is, to make sure that as few people as possible are being burned by the International Speaker's Network. Because yes, ISN is still out there, scamming people left and right.
A new tool for those of you who have already lost your money to them. It's called the Complaint Board. I've just added my complaint, and I would encourage you to do the same.
The Complaint Board
If you write to them, please let me know! I'll highlight your notations. Write to me at burnedbyisn (at) hotmail.com.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Got Lawsuits?
I heard from another burned ISN customer this morning. A gentleman who was likewise burned by ISN -- only this time it was part of the publication of his book. It seems that the book, promised to him within a few months, was delivered just days before the one-year deadline. Even then, the cover was wrong.
Sadly, of course, this is not the first time I've heard this story. But this time there was a twist -- the question of whether I knew of anyone already pursuing a lawsuit?
I'll be putting him in touch with the others who have asked me that question.... but I'll ask it here, too:
If you have filed or considered a lawsuit against ISN, Bookaspeaker, Insight Publishing, the Innovators Group (or any of their other DBAs), or would like to be put in touch with others who have or are considering one.... will you send me an email? I'll put you all in touch with each other.....
email me at: burnedbyisn (at) hotmail.com
Sadly, of course, this is not the first time I've heard this story. But this time there was a twist -- the question of whether I knew of anyone already pursuing a lawsuit?
I'll be putting him in touch with the others who have asked me that question.... but I'll ask it here, too:
If you have filed or considered a lawsuit against ISN, Bookaspeaker, Insight Publishing, the Innovators Group (or any of their other DBAs), or would like to be put in touch with others who have or are considering one.... will you send me an email? I'll put you all in touch with each other.....
email me at: burnedbyisn (at) hotmail.com
Saturday, December 6, 2008
ISN Gets Its Due at LinkedIn
Looks like the International Speakers Network is getting the recognition it deserves -- at one of the groups of speakers at Linked In.
See what they have to say. It ain't pretty!
I believe it is like internet karma, you know?
See what they have to say. It ain't pretty!
I believe it is like internet karma, you know?
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Watch Your Credit Card - Bogus Charges from ISN
Margie commented on my last blog post....
It seems that when she realized she had been scammed by the International Speakers Network, she went back to her credit card company, and they removed the charges from her credit card. Great!
But then, two months later, they charged her credit card for $250 worth of stuff she never even ordered!
See her post here.
Honestly -- I would stop blogging except that I know YOU may be the person who will save your money and not get taken by these people.
It seems that when she realized she had been scammed by the International Speakers Network, she went back to her credit card company, and they removed the charges from her credit card. Great!
But then, two months later, they charged her credit card for $250 worth of stuff she never even ordered!
See her post here.
Honestly -- I would stop blogging except that I know YOU may be the person who will save your money and not get taken by these people.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
More Money Saved Because People Found This Blog
As the economy tanks, we can be sure of one thing.... I have saved many people money -- speakers like you and me who work hard for our money and don't have extra to throw away on non-services like those offered by ISN or Book a speaker, or any of the other names they are using these days -- because they have found this blog.
At last count, at least 14 people have told me they were thinking of signing up, but found the information on this blog, and decided against it. That means I've saved folks at least $7000 and maybe more!
Joseph is the latest. He asked, "what's the scoop with these folks?" So I told him. I've also noticed a speaker named Lt. Col. Bob Weinstein just attended one of their workshops. I hope he learns what they WON'T do for him before he spends any more money. He certainly sent out enough press releases talking about it.
It truly helps me sleep at night to know I've saved so many people grief, stress and hassle. Thanks for listening.
At last count, at least 14 people have told me they were thinking of signing up, but found the information on this blog, and decided against it. That means I've saved folks at least $7000 and maybe more!
Joseph is the latest. He asked, "what's the scoop with these folks?" So I told him. I've also noticed a speaker named Lt. Col. Bob Weinstein just attended one of their workshops. I hope he learns what they WON'T do for him before he spends any more money. He certainly sent out enough press releases talking about it.
It truly helps me sleep at night to know I've saved so many people grief, stress and hassle. Thanks for listening.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Email -- from an anonymous "Happy Customer"
Dear Anonymous:
I hope you enjoy your workshop this weekend in Gatlinburg with the people from ISN. In fact, I went to one of those workshops, too. What a waste of time! All they did was video tape other people who were speaking about topics I had NO interest in. Most of them were truly terrible speakers (there was one who wasn't bad) -- and I had to sit through it because that's what the workshop was.
Oh -- except for David Wright who pontificated on a few marketing topics -- nothing I wasn't already putting into practice. Of course, the whole idea was to try their tactics using the materials they would produce for you first, for big bucks, of course. What most people don't realize is that they can get those same materials printed at their own local print shop for far less money.
Bottom line -- you may be happy with ISN today, feeling excited that they are going to help you market your speaking. At that stage, I was happy with them, too! I was looking forward to developing the partnership that would help me market my abilities.
But -- talk to me in six months when you've sent them money and they haven't done what they promised they would do. Let me know when you've purchased the ability to be on their "mailing to 5,000 conference producers" or their "email to 12,000 conference producers" or their many books that you'll be included in. (I have yet to find anyone who really ended up with one of those books, by the way.)
Yup -- in six months I'd like to hear back from you to see if you're still as happy then as you are today. I'm going to bet two things: 1. That you won't be happy. and 2. that I won't hear from you when you aren't anyway.
Oh -- and by the way -- I can only imagine how much they are using Brenda Keefer's departure to blame their scam on -- of course! It's brilliant! I can hear it now -- "Yes, we know there are people who were unhappy with our service, but we figured out all the problems were coming from Brenda Keefer and she's gone now." hahahah!! Yes, that sounds good. Wonder what they're going to tell people a year from now when they don't follow through?
I do wish you luck and hope you do well.
Burned by ISN
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Willow Mist -- Avoid this One, Too
I found a note in the SpeakerNet newsletter (great newsletter by the way -- I highly recommend it) -- posted by a fellow who asked about Willow Mist Professional Services. Wanted to know if they are any good.
Willow Mist Professional Services is owned by Brenda Keefer, one of the people who used to work for David Wright at International Speakers Network, one of the people who was involved in stealing my money, and based on the email I get, money from many others, too.
Brenda has just finished her 10 years of probation for stealing about a quarter million dollars from her previous employer. As I said in a previous blog post -- no honor among thieves!
So perhaps my comment here is branching out some. But my bigger picture is to save us who make our living speaking from spending money on scam artists who plan only to take your money, and then plan to do nothing with it to assist our professions.
If this seems confusing to you, read some of these other posts and comments on this blog from others who have lost their money to Bookaspeaker, the International Speaker's Network, the Innovators Group and all the other aliases they use. Know that Brenda cut her teeth on their way of doing business. And save your money!
(posted 2/17/2012 - see updates on Brenda Keefer and Willow Mist here.)
Willow Mist Professional Services is owned by Brenda Keefer, one of the people who used to work for David Wright at International Speakers Network, one of the people who was involved in stealing my money, and based on the email I get, money from many others, too.
Brenda has just finished her 10 years of probation for stealing about a quarter million dollars from her previous employer. As I said in a previous blog post -- no honor among thieves!
So perhaps my comment here is branching out some. But my bigger picture is to save us who make our living speaking from spending money on scam artists who plan only to take your money, and then plan to do nothing with it to assist our professions.
If this seems confusing to you, read some of these other posts and comments on this blog from others who have lost their money to Bookaspeaker, the International Speaker's Network, the Innovators Group and all the other aliases they use. Know that Brenda cut her teeth on their way of doing business. And save your money!
(posted 2/17/2012 - see updates on Brenda Keefer and Willow Mist here.)
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Getting Back at the International Speakers Network
See the comment below -- someone has asked what we can do to put the International Speakers Network and Book a Speaker. net out of business.
What I know is that there are dozens, if not hundreds of people who have paid money for services never rendered. Promises made, not kept. Frustration -- and David Wright and his son, Greg Wright, laughing up their sleeves at all of us who sent money and really expected they were going to help us out!
The point was made that "none of the people who worked there two years ago are there now." There is at least one -- Dona is still there as far as I know. I also know Brenda went out on her own to scam people all by herself. Turns out she just finished her 10 years of probation for stealing a quarter million dollars from her last employer! (Wow -- must make it tough to find a new job. No honor among thieves?)
If you have had problems with the International Speakers Network, here are some things that you can do to make sure others don't waste their money:
Please let me know if you do any of the above and I'll do updates to this blog.
What I know is that there are dozens, if not hundreds of people who have paid money for services never rendered. Promises made, not kept. Frustration -- and David Wright and his son, Greg Wright, laughing up their sleeves at all of us who sent money and really expected they were going to help us out!
The point was made that "none of the people who worked there two years ago are there now." There is at least one -- Dona is still there as far as I know. I also know Brenda went out on her own to scam people all by herself. Turns out she just finished her 10 years of probation for stealing a quarter million dollars from her last employer! (Wow -- must make it tough to find a new job. No honor among thieves?)
If you have had problems with the International Speakers Network, here are some things that you can do to make sure others don't waste their money:
- The more information written online about ISN and its bad business, the more chance someone searching for information about them will find it. What we know about rising in the ranks in search engines is that the more links that come IN to a site, the higher it ranks.
- If everyone who has been scammed starts a blog like this, or is willing to link from an existing website, then all these posts will rise in the search engines. So you can start by writing a blog and linking to this blog: http://burnedbyisn.blogspot.com/
- Once you have written a blog, let me know, and I will link back. We can start a whole group of blogs that are linking to each other -- and they will all rise in the search engine results.
- The Rip Off Report already shows up on the first page of search results. Go to the Rip Off report and add to the information I have started there. You'll have to sign up, but you'll find it can be useful. I started the first post there many months ago, and since then, someone from ISN (pretending they weren't!) posted. Then just a few days ago, someone else posted about problems again. The more people who post, the better. Here's the link: http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/0/291/RipOff0291778.htm
- File with the Knoxville Better Business Bureau. There are a few, and because David Wright replies with so much bull-pooky, you won't get your money back. BUT -- file anyway. It takes only a few minutes and it causes ISN to have to do the paperwork. Even if you don't get your money back, you get the satisfaction of knowing that the BBB knows these guys are scam artists. Here's the link for the BBB: http://knoxville.bbb.org/WWWRoot/Report.aspx?site=57&bbb=0533&firm=11488 It does say ISN has an "unsatisfactory" record -- but that and a quarter....
- Lawsuit -- I'm going to let someone else pick up the ball on that one. It's easy enough for me to get back in touch with all those I know have been scammed -- probably about two dozen people I know about who have reached out to me. We can always reach out to others on their list of speakers.
Please let me know if you do any of the above and I'll do updates to this blog.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Does This Email from International Speakers Network Sound Familiar? Don't Fall for This!
I was just contacted by someone who has received one of the ISN marketing emails. If you have been receiving these, please read carefully below! Here's the most recent -- as of 8/24/08:
We are currently working on five bookings for events being planned for 2008- 2009. We need speakers who can speak to these audiences.
The first event will be in August 2008 in Colorado. They are looking for one or two motivational speakers who can talk to members of Blacks in Government for their Annual National Training Conference. The budget is $5,000 per keynote speaker, plus expenses. (There are additional details on the call for presentation form)
The second event is in March 2009 in Texas. They need a keynote speaker for a 90 minute presentation. It will be for a human resource management association. The budget is $7,500, plus expenses. They are looking for someone to speak on human resources. (There are additional details on the call for presentation form)
The third event is in March 2009 in Colorado. They are seeking a keynote speaker for the opening session for a 60 minute presentation on teambuilding. The budget is $7,500, plus expenses. (There are additional details on the call for presentation form)
The fourth event is in May 2009 in North Carolina. They are seeking keynote speakers for the opening session for a 60 minute presentation to Professional Women on topics such as stress, life balance, mentoring, and motivation. The budget is $5,000-7,500, plus expenses. (There are additional details on the call for presentation form)
The fifth event will be in July 2009 in New York. They are looking for one or two speakers who can talk on health, nutrition, and pharmaceutical topics. The budget is $10,000 per keynote speaker, plus expenses. It is for the annual meeting and educational workshop. (There are additional details on the call for presentation form)
We have been expanding lately into various markets and are looking for speakers who are innovative and creative with topics for these markets.
...................................................
OK -- so let me let you in on one of the worst kept secrets there is.... this is a scam. These conferences do not really exist! No they do not!
I fell for these emails, too. It's the reason I lost my money to them. I thought they were real.
Want proof? For one thing -- the only listing that actually tells you much is the first one. It says, "The first event will be in August 2008 in Colorado. They are looking for one or two motivational speakers who can talk to members of Blacks in Government for their Annual National Training Conference. The budget is $5,000 per keynote speaker, plus expenses. (There are additional details on the call for presentation form) "
So I looked up the National Training Conference and sure enough -- it WAS held in August (past tense) -- and it was held in New Orleans! Not Colorado. Oh. Think it was a typo? Think they meant 2009? Guess again -- it will be held in Baltimore, MD in 2009. And in Kansas City, Boston and Detroit after that.
See that "additional details are on the presentation form" thing? That is the disclaimer. If somehow you get one of these emails and you already paid your money, and you call to say "hey, how about me? What am I? Chopped liver? -- because of course, we all fit those profiles -- you will find out that there is some magical exclusion on that presentation form that means you won't fit the profile. Uh-huh. So sorry. These emails are a good exercise in creative writing, no more. And they are good at it. An awful lot of us fall for them!
And let me warn you. Once you sign up and pay them the money they want, those opportunities are never offered again. I don't remember ever hearing about any conference that needed a speaker, keynote or otherwise, once I paid. Nope. Those opportunities seem to have dried right up.
So there you go. Today's lesson. SAVE YOUR MONEY.
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One commenter (below) asked about getting back at ISN -- see my follow up with ways to do that.
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We are currently working on five bookings for events being planned for 2008- 2009. We need speakers who can speak to these audiences.
The first event will be in August 2008 in Colorado. They are looking for one or two motivational speakers who can talk to members of Blacks in Government for their Annual National Training Conference. The budget is $5,000 per keynote speaker, plus expenses. (There are additional details on the call for presentation form)
The second event is in March 2009 in Texas. They need a keynote speaker for a 90 minute presentation. It will be for a human resource management association. The budget is $7,500, plus expenses. They are looking for someone to speak on human resources. (There are additional details on the call for presentation form)
The third event is in March 2009 in Colorado. They are seeking a keynote speaker for the opening session for a 60 minute presentation on teambuilding. The budget is $7,500, plus expenses. (There are additional details on the call for presentation form)
The fourth event is in May 2009 in North Carolina. They are seeking keynote speakers for the opening session for a 60 minute presentation to Professional Women on topics such as stress, life balance, mentoring, and motivation. The budget is $5,000-7,500, plus expenses. (There are additional details on the call for presentation form)
The fifth event will be in July 2009 in New York. They are looking for one or two speakers who can talk on health, nutrition, and pharmaceutical topics. The budget is $10,000 per keynote speaker, plus expenses. It is for the annual meeting and educational workshop. (There are additional details on the call for presentation form)
We have been expanding lately into various markets and are looking for speakers who are innovative and creative with topics for these markets.
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OK -- so let me let you in on one of the worst kept secrets there is.... this is a scam. These conferences do not really exist! No they do not!
I fell for these emails, too. It's the reason I lost my money to them. I thought they were real.
Want proof? For one thing -- the only listing that actually tells you much is the first one. It says, "The first event will be in August 2008 in Colorado. They are looking for one or two motivational speakers who can talk to members of Blacks in Government for their Annual National Training Conference. The budget is $5,000 per keynote speaker, plus expenses. (There are additional details on the call for presentation form) "
So I looked up the National Training Conference and sure enough -- it WAS held in August (past tense) -- and it was held in New Orleans! Not Colorado. Oh. Think it was a typo? Think they meant 2009? Guess again -- it will be held in Baltimore, MD in 2009. And in Kansas City, Boston and Detroit after that.
See that "additional details are on the presentation form" thing? That is the disclaimer. If somehow you get one of these emails and you already paid your money, and you call to say "hey, how about me? What am I? Chopped liver? -- because of course, we all fit those profiles -- you will find out that there is some magical exclusion on that presentation form that means you won't fit the profile. Uh-huh. So sorry. These emails are a good exercise in creative writing, no more. And they are good at it. An awful lot of us fall for them!
And let me warn you. Once you sign up and pay them the money they want, those opportunities are never offered again. I don't remember ever hearing about any conference that needed a speaker, keynote or otherwise, once I paid. Nope. Those opportunities seem to have dried right up.
So there you go. Today's lesson. SAVE YOUR MONEY.
...........................................
One commenter (below) asked about getting back at ISN -- see my follow up with ways to do that.
...........................................
Thursday, August 7, 2008
ISN Strikes Again - Hope This Makes You Pause
I heard today from Sylvia (not her real name) that she, too, has thrown her money away. This is her note to me.... sad but true:
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... I found your blog about your bad experience with the International Speakers Network, but it just seemed like you had some beef against them. They were so nice on the phone. After I found your blog, I asked them and they said they knew you and that you had caused the problem not them.
So I sent them my money, and I went to one of their workshops. It was such a waste of time! All I did was listen to other people speak. There were a few sessions about marketing my own speaking, but that's what I thought they were going to do for me!
Now it's several months later. So far -- nothing. They keep sending me emails telling me they want to include me in a book, or in a mailing, or on postcards. They just want more and more of my money, but they have done nothing for me! And so far, including the cost to attend that worthless workshop, I have spent more than $2000 with nothing to show for it.
I just wanted you to know that now I understand exactly what you meant about the ISN taking all your money but not doing what they promise to do. I am sorry it happened to you. I am sorry it happened to me.
I hope other people are smart enough to pay attention to both of us.
Thanks for letting me vent. Yes, you can use this on your blog.
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I don't need to add to Sylvia's words. I just hope you find them and take them to heart.
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... I found your blog about your bad experience with the International Speakers Network, but it just seemed like you had some beef against them. They were so nice on the phone. After I found your blog, I asked them and they said they knew you and that you had caused the problem not them.
So I sent them my money, and I went to one of their workshops. It was such a waste of time! All I did was listen to other people speak. There were a few sessions about marketing my own speaking, but that's what I thought they were going to do for me!
Now it's several months later. So far -- nothing. They keep sending me emails telling me they want to include me in a book, or in a mailing, or on postcards. They just want more and more of my money, but they have done nothing for me! And so far, including the cost to attend that worthless workshop, I have spent more than $2000 with nothing to show for it.
I just wanted you to know that now I understand exactly what you meant about the ISN taking all your money but not doing what they promise to do. I am sorry it happened to you. I am sorry it happened to me.
I hope other people are smart enough to pay attention to both of us.
Thanks for letting me vent. Yes, you can use this on your blog.
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I don't need to add to Sylvia's words. I just hope you find them and take them to heart.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Joseph's Friend Scammed by ISN
Two emails today with similar stories about getting burned by ISN, the International Speakers Network. Here's one from Joseph:
Hi. I came across your blog the other day and it was an interesting read. I have a friend who recently joined ISN (yeah, too late) and after reading about your experience, I’m now afraid that the money has been lost. Regarding your post about Brenda Keefer leaving ISN, check out the email David Wright sent out the other day. The fact that he posted a link for all to see of Brenda’s criminal appeal case almost 10 years ago proves to me what kind of scum he is. And he sent this out to his entire client database!! Unbelievable…
Attached was a letter David Wright had sent out (noted in a blog post below) with a copy of Brenda Keefer's criminal case. Turns out she's still on probation until 2009 after stealing about $250,000 from a previous employer.
Ay-carrumba!
I guess my loss of $950 is nuttin compared to all that!
Do you have a story about dealings with ISN? Care to share? As you can see, I won't use your name....
Hi. I came across your blog the other day and it was an interesting read. I have a friend who recently joined ISN (yeah, too late) and after reading about your experience, I’m now afraid that the money has been lost. Regarding your post about Brenda Keefer leaving ISN, check out the email David Wright sent out the other day. The fact that he posted a link for all to see of Brenda’s criminal appeal case almost 10 years ago proves to me what kind of scum he is. And he sent this out to his entire client database!! Unbelievable…
Attached was a letter David Wright had sent out (noted in a blog post below) with a copy of Brenda Keefer's criminal case. Turns out she's still on probation until 2009 after stealing about $250,000 from a previous employer.
Ay-carrumba!
I guess my loss of $950 is nuttin compared to all that!
Do you have a story about dealings with ISN? Care to share? As you can see, I won't use your name....
Monday, June 2, 2008
Another Author / Speaker Ripped Off by ISN
Here's the first of the emails I have received in response to David Wright's upset at the loss of his sidekick, Brenda Keefer. (If you are unsure about what I mean, read the other June 2 post below.)
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From Bob:
I received this email today which prompted me to do a google search on ISN and the “many” businesses that they represent. I found your blog and just wanted to confirm that I am one of the many people that have been burned by ISN. I had them print a book and, other than receiving the actual shipment, I did not received ANY OTHER SERVICES that were promised. ALL LIES!
So, just wanted you to know that you are in good company.
Hope your business continues to be successful – even WITHOUT their help.
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From Bob:
I received this email today which prompted me to do a google search on ISN and the “many” businesses that they represent. I found your blog and just wanted to confirm that I am one of the many people that have been burned by ISN. I had them print a book and, other than receiving the actual shipment, I did not received ANY OTHER SERVICES that were promised. ALL LIES!
So, just wanted you to know that you are in good company.
Hope your business continues to be successful – even WITHOUT their help.
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Brenda's Out on Her Own
.... but can we trust her any more than we can trust David? That's the question.
Someone called "Thought you should know about this" at yahoo is sending email to any number of people who were likely scammed by ISN. The email contains a letter dated today, June 2, and says that Brenda Keefer, one of David Wright's right hand people, has started her own business called Willow Mist Professional Services.
Doncha just hate it when a disgruntled employee sets up shop and steals your thunder?
As for David Wright -- he's just protesting too much.... except I'm sure he doesn't want the company skeletons uncovered either. So he has to play nice -- to an extent.
In response to the memo David is sending, I'm beginning to hear from others who have been burned -- so -- I'm going to post the first of them in a separate post -- read above!
Someone called "Thought you should know about this" at yahoo is sending email to any number of people who were likely scammed by ISN. The email contains a letter dated today, June 2, and says that Brenda Keefer, one of David Wright's right hand people, has started her own business called Willow Mist Professional Services.
Doncha just hate it when a disgruntled employee sets up shop and steals your thunder?
As for David Wright -- he's just protesting too much.... except I'm sure he doesn't want the company skeletons uncovered either. So he has to play nice -- to an extent.
In response to the memo David is sending, I'm beginning to hear from others who have been burned -- so -- I'm going to post the first of them in a separate post -- read above!
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Ripoff Report - check this out
Imagine my surprise to find that someone had posted a rebuttal to my filing on Ripoff Report for ISN. check this out: http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/0/291/ripoff0291778.htm
I've read it and reread it -- and the ONLY conclusion I can reach is that somebody from the staff at ISN wrote it. If not, I can't imagine how they would know the information they know?
I love how this person explains to me how it is a marketing company and they know what's good for me. Oh really? Hmmm.... I have worked in marketing myself for over 20 years. And somehow, THEY know how to market me -- yet -- there has never been ONE request for my services. YET -- when I do the marketing myself, I have more requests than I can handle?
Oh yeah. they know a lot, don't they?
The entire reason I tried to hire the International Speaker's Network was to help me with my marketing. I just didn't feel like I had time to manage it myself. Instead of lightening the load on my time, they lightened my pocketbook -- to the tune of $950.
Rip off -- personafied.
What do you think?
I've read it and reread it -- and the ONLY conclusion I can reach is that somebody from the staff at ISN wrote it. If not, I can't imagine how they would know the information they know?
I love how this person explains to me how it is a marketing company and they know what's good for me. Oh really? Hmmm.... I have worked in marketing myself for over 20 years. And somehow, THEY know how to market me -- yet -- there has never been ONE request for my services. YET -- when I do the marketing myself, I have more requests than I can handle?
Oh yeah. they know a lot, don't they?
The entire reason I tried to hire the International Speaker's Network was to help me with my marketing. I just didn't feel like I had time to manage it myself. Instead of lightening the load on my time, they lightened my pocketbook -- to the tune of $950.
Rip off -- personafied.
What do you think?