Staff

John T. Fleming is a researcher, writer and advocate of micro enterprise opportunities that enable flexibility in how and when work can be accomplished. His many years of involvement with the direct selling business model includes experience as an independent contractor, owner of a direct selling company, officer, and pacesetter within one of the world’s largest direct selling companies, Publisher/Editor- in- Chief of Direct Selling News, Consultant, Speaker, and Advisor.

Acknowledgement of John’s accomplishments, advocacy and understanding of the direct selling business model is best summarized by the three most distinguished awards he has received: The Direct Selling Education Foundation’s Circle of Honor – 1997, the Direct Selling Association Hall of Fame in-duction in 2016 and the first Direct Selling News Lifetime Achievement Award.

John is author of Ultimate Gig, published by Emerald Publishing and LEVERAGE, published by Ideas & Design Group as a FREE eBook download from the website. Ultimate Gig was recognized as sole finalist in the category of Business, Finance & Management for 2022 PROSE Awards sponsored by American Publishers Association.

Jeff Fromm has spoken literally all over the world sharing actionable insights on how sustainability, innovation, employee engagement and brand purpose create powerful brands. The brands that do this best “Win Inside to Win Outside” and balance driving profits with positively impacting people and planet or triple bottom-line thinking.

In 2010, Jeff led the first public study of Millennials through a research partnership with the Boston Consulting Group. That research informed his first book “Marketing to Millennials (2013).” He has since co-authored five books — his most recent “The Purpose Advantage 2.0 (2021). The model primarily used by brands featured in this book is called “The Purpose Profit Loop.”

Jeff has written 500+ articles at Forbes, serves on the board of directors and or invested in high-performance companies including Barkley, Service Management Group (SMG.com), Tickets For Less (Ticketsforless.com) and Three Dog Bakery.

Shannon Severson is a journalist with more than 25 years of experience in writing, editing, public relations and marketing communications. Her work has appeared in both local and national magazines. Shannon’s industry experience includes work in professional sports, luxury lifestyle, entertainment, architecture and design, fine arts, non-profits, automotive and hospitality. Her specialty is telling the stories of individuals and organizations in compelling and creative ways. Shannon has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Pepperdine University and grew up in California’s Bay Area.

Katie Hoge is a sophomore pre-law major at Grand Canyon University. She moved to Scottsdale from LA County, California in the summer of 2022 with her family to begin school. After college, she hopes to attend law school and eventually become an intellectual property attorney to protect the work of all kinds of artists. Outside of writing, Katie is a dancer and spends lots of time in rehearsal and hanging out with her friends. She enjoys the beach and listening to music.

Aspiring Venture Capitalist experienced in Startups, marketing, consulting, and executive leadership. Christian is a passionate creator who has experience in multiple mediums including illustration, animation, and videography. His drive is to not only help people on their ventures, but inspire other individuals to find and strive for what they enjoy in life. Throughout Christian’s time as a leader, he has been recognized for his success in the role with accolades such as the presidential service award and winner of an MIT entrepreneurial pitching competition. From student body president to owner of small businesses he has been able to demonstrate and improve his skills as an effective leader and imaginative creator.

Ava is about to begin her junior year in college, studying business. She hopes to be a business owner one day, owning her own clothing store. Originally from Washington State, Ava relocated to Tucson, AZ in 2020 for school. In between classes and working full time, Ava enjoys spending time with friends and family outdoors, relaxing by the pool and keeping up to date with her numerous YouTubers.

Matt Wilson has over 20 years of design industry experience in web, mobile apps, print, video, 3D modeling and animation, photography and illustration, Matt has a proven record of delivering first-class marketing, advertising, training, communications, and promotional materials in any medium serving as both part of an integrated team, as well as design-lead.

Matt has a Bachelors of Fine Arts degree from the University of Washington.

Joel Weldon has amassed a global following as one of the most respected speakers in North America. Not unlike most entrepreneurs, Joel’s success was discovered through trial by fire. It’s by such reliability that we find him such a refreshing source of strength and wisdom.

The timeless principles Joel echoes are not only practical, they are unforgettably illustrated in his true stories and examples. Joel’s message generates positive action. Each story is specifically designed to meet the audience’s needs, help them conquer their fears and reinforce their victories. We are so happy that Joel has chosen AFEUSA as his platform to reach the new Entrepreneur.

Wayne Goshkarian is a born entrepreneur. His entrepreneurial journey started at age 11 when he sold Amway cleaning products to his 50-home paper route, Wayne was “cross selling” at a young age. While in High School, he secured his insurance licensed, his Series 6 and 63 and lived in Oxford England doing financial planning for American’s living in England. AFEUSA is excited to have Wayne as the Director of Communications to bring his years of entrepreneurship experience to the team. Wayne has continually redefined standard industry practices and adapted to changes before they occur. He has been working in the marketing industry for over 45 years, identifying opportunities that have been overlooked by most. Wayne has consulted, enrolled and provided services to companies like Safeway Foods, Children’s Hospital, Rio Hotel and Casino, Ameristar Casino and many other large national companies.