Success Stories
The Million Dollar Club is an elite group of people who have throughout the course of their Univera careers, earned over $1 million in commissions.
- Independent Diamond Associates earn approximately $9,700 to $22,400 USD per month*
- Independent Blue Diamond Associates earn approximately $31,000 to $52,000 USD per month*
Ron & Jan Boyanovsky | Butch Ganter| Al & Jan Keranen | Bob & Renate Lundberg |
John & Karen Rogers | Ross & Walther Team | Harris Williams | David & Marcella Skultety | Anjila Stimack
Ron & Jan Boyanovsky
West Linn, Oregon
With years of experience in the healthcare industry, Ron and Jan Boyanovsky bring a wealth of relevant experience and passion for good health to Univera. Ron worked as a pharmacist, running his own business, while Jan worked as a registered nurse. The couple was introduced to Univera when Jan was gifted several products. She found that the products gave a renewed fullness to her life, allowing her new vitality — something she had been looking for. After this experience, the Boyanovskys looked a little closer at Univera.
Ron and Jan then attended a local team event where they learned more about the science behind Univera products. Needless to say, because of their background in healthcare professions, they were impressed. Beyond that, they were amazed by the integrity of the company and saw that the Corporation and the Field worked side by side. "Emotional stability comes from long-term commitment" is a phrase the couple lives by. The deciding factor that led the Boyanovskys to their passionate commitment to Univera occurred when they learned of the 100-year vision of owner Bill Lee, and noted the soundness of his business plan. Among their most cherished memories in the business is meeting and visiting with Mr. Bill Lee in South Korea.
With Univera, the Boyanovskys have found both financial independence and more time to spend with their family, which includes their three grown children — Brian, Becky and Jennifer — as well as their six grandchildren. Their business has grown, and continues to do so, which they credit to the business model. Ron and Jan firmly believe that the Gift-Team-Enroll model is by far the most crucial element because the product experience is more valuable than promoting it solely through information. Since they both come from a background in healthcare, they have confidence in the products due to the level of science and research being conducted by Univera.
In addition to the life-altering health experience they enjoy by using Univera products, the Boyanovskys also bring commitment and leadership to the company. When asked how they define leadership, they comment: "Doing the critically important things you ask others to do." In addition to leading by example, the couple believes in working hard with passion — a passion that has truly paid off for them.
Testimonials are from Independent Univera Associates.
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Butch Ganter
Portland, Oregon
Butch has over 17 years experience working as a teacher and coach. He also owned and operated a small business for 10 years. The industry of relationship marketing is very familiar to Butch; he has been involved with several direct-selling companies over the past 20 years. Butch believes that with a good model and a system that is easy to duplicate, it's a great, inclusive industry that allows people with a willingness to learn and a good work ethic to achieve great things. Butch emphasizes that, in spite of pouring his energy into each endeavor, the flawed business models of other companies left him with little monetary success, even after working hard and following their plans with precision. Not so with Univera.
Univera is the only relationship marketing company that has provided Butch with the level of success he enjoys today, and he attributes this to Univera's Gift-Team-Enroll model. Butch says, "There have been many keys to my success, but I knew very well from my experience with other relationship marketing companies that the 'system' is the basis for success." The difference Butch experienced with Univera's system was the ability to easily duplicate the gifting process time and time again. He firmly believes that without the G-T-E sales model, he wouldn't have experienced the success he enjoys today.
Of course, the business model isn't everything. Butch believes that without superior products, no system would work. His belief in Univera products comes through his own rewarding experience as well as seeing and hearing the positive experiences so many others have enjoyed.
In addition to his financial success, Butch has experienced a significant improvement in his health, level of confidence, purpose in life, personal growth, and overall quality of life. Butch looks forward to his continued success with Univera and is confident that he chose the right path to a secure future. Butch takes inspiration from these words by fellow Oregonian and famous runner Steve Prefontaine: "If you do not give it your very best ... you have wasted the gift!"
Testimonials are from Independent Univera Associates.
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Al & Jan Keranen
Portland, Oregon
Al and Jan Keranen have been involved in relationship marketing and direct sales with various companies for most of their 29 years of marriage. They have learned that when this model is functioning properly, it's a valid and lucrative way to make a living while enjoying the freedom of being one's own boss. Because they enjoy a close-knit family, they prioritize spending time with their children. Recently, they welcomed their first grandchild into the world and are very proud and excited. They are delighted that, thanks to Univera, they have the energy and vitality to enjoy their granddaughter.
Prior to trying Univera products, Al had experienced health issues as a result of various athletic injuries. He found that this constant discomfort was beginning to affect his overall well-being. Then a good friend introduced Al and Jan to Univera. Al experienced immediate results from the Univera products, and that led him to investigate the business opportunity.
What drew the Keranens to the relationship marketing industry was their anticipation that Field leaders would be working closely with Corporate leadership to implement a business model that would leave a significant legacy. Univera was the answer for Al and Jan. The first major event they attended was in Phoenix, Arizona, in 2003. At that meeting they met Bill Lee, Stuart Ochiltree, and Stephen Cherniske, who convinced the Keranens that Univera could be their "home" for the rest of their lives. They recognized the unique opportunity presented to them by Univera, which allowed them to combine their skills and previous experience with a company striving to bring the best of nature to humankind.
Since joining Univera, Al and Jan have heard thousands of product stories that are all compelling and impressive in addition to their own positive experiences. They believe that Univera is doing something worthwhile that will change how the world views healthy aging, and also provides freedom for those who pursue the business opportunity. They are also impressed by the tenet of Servant Leadership as espoused by Univera.
Testimonials are from Independent Univera Associates.
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Bob & Renate Lundberg
Lake Oswego, Oregon
Many couples enjoy stealing some ‘us’ time from the trappings of work, kids, or maybe a bit of both. For Blue Diamonds Renate and Bob Lundberg, they do one additional thing: they download. “We download every day and we discuss our strategy on everything from training to communication to relationships,” Bob said.
The couple has invested much time, energy, and resources to their business – a stark difference from when they first learned of Univera. Due to a prior less-than-stellar experience in relationship marketing, they did not have any intention of becoming involved, but a desire to support their friends Ron and Jan Boyanovsky in their business left their door open to the possibility.
And then they learned of CSO Stephen Cherniske. After hearing him speak live, they were in. “Stephen’s brilliance, kindness, and commitment to giving his highest and best have come to embody Univera for us,” Renate said. “I fell in love with the products – they completely changed my health, and out of that, I wanted to bring that better quality of life to other people.”
To start, the couple needed to really understand relationship marketing. “At that point, we decided to study this business model and soon learned that although it is frequently misunderstood, when done properly, it can provide a win-win for the Corporation and for Field Associates.”
So the strategy was to look for people experienced in relationship marketing. But most people who signed on, at least in the beginning, had either failed with a previous company or had no relationship marketing experience at all.
“We decided to go to work and train everybody willing to do what it takes,” she said. And rather than focus on destination, the couple zeroed in on process. “We fell in love with the process of making everybody as successful as we could. We strongly believe in training our Associates on everything from product to building their Univera business with confidence.”
At whatever level an Associate enters their Team, the Lundbergs meet people where they are. “We’re not just looking for key leaders – we want everyone who joins to be successful, no matter what ‘success’ means to them. If they want to build a Bronze or Silver business, we give them the same respect and support as we would someone working toward Blue Diamond, and when people feel supported this way, many times they’ll do much more than they originally set out to do.”
They are fortunate to have a Team whose Diamond leaders work in very close collaboration with one another, and that synergistic spirit and respect then trickles down. “Our Diamonds are doing a tremendous job, duplicating what we trained on from the beginning,” she said. “They are confident, strong leaders who now know themselves how to build and run a fast growing Diamond, soon to be Blue Diamond business.”
This strong leadership fosters great loyalty. Renate acknowledges that at this point, they could walk away from their business, and their check would still be there. “But we’d never do that. Our Team is our family and we want to see everyone succeed. There are lots of rank promotions coming up in our business, and we’ll stay by their side and see them through to their success. We will stay true to our promise to remain as engaged as we are right now. Our ultimate goal is to help take Univera global so we will contribute a small part to Bill Lee’s mission and vision to bring the best of nature and science to human kind.”
Having also served on Univera’s Field Leadership Council, Renate experienced firsthand the unshakable commitment of Univera’s Executive Team towards win-win solutions for both Corporate and Field when putting new strategies into place. “This gives us great confidence that we are with the right company who truly cares about us.”
Witnessing how their work continues to help others is undoubtedly gratifying. That, and the compensation rewards and incentive trips aside, the couple acknowledges that working their business has brought about one additional perk.
“On a professional level we now have a common language and goal and – it’s wonderful to be able to work together,” she said.
Testimonials are from Independent Univera Associates.
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John & Karen Rogers
Longmont, Colorado
John's respect for the medicinal power of plant extracts came early — his father, David, was co-author of the first phytologic software program for plant classification while at MIT. Now, several decades later, John enjoys belonging to a company whose mission is to bring the best of nature to humankind.
Experience as a portfolio manager in a large securities company enabled John to recognize the unlimited growth potential of Univera. The two were a fortunate natural combination which allowed him to have time to raise three healthy and happy children, now adults. He has been fortunate in his private life as well, having recently married in Pisa, Italy — and because of his Univera business, he has had the time to enjoy an extended honeymoon with his new bride, Karen.
Because he is a realist, John understood that potential is one thing and realizing that potential is quite another. That's why he took time to carefully investigate the company's Corporate executives. "I recognized the likelihood of success for Univera," he says, "with the vision of Bill Lee, the experience of Regan Miles, and the exuberance of Stephen Cherniske."
John respects the inclusiveness of the company, stating that, "Associates are expected to participate actively rather than simply verbalizing the Corporate cause celebre." The business model of Gift-Team-Enroll is "the key that unlocks the door," and John embraces it wholeheartedly. He believes that the system is successful because it is simple, easy to duplicate, and it can be learned easily.
Perhaps most rewarding for John as a Blue Diamond leader is his ability to articulate a vision that others can see themselves as part of and although a savvy businessman — his finest moments with Univera have come through forming special bonds with others. As he says, "watching leaders become Platinums and Diamonds is as rewarding as any commission check."
Testimonials are from Independent Univera Associates.
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Ross & Walther Team
Colorado
Richard & Patti Ross
Castle Rock, Colorado
Richard and Patti Ross enjoy a blended family of children ranging from 17 to 25. All the children are very active in academics, sports, photography, and music. Together, this family loves to travel and laugh.
Both Richard and Patti had successful careers prior to becoming Univera Associates. Patti has a background in advertising, art, and publishing. At one point, Patti owned her own desktop publishing business, which she closed to be a stay-at-home mother when her son was born. Richard has been an active entrepreneur in real estate development and the waste management business since 1971. In 1996, when Richard sold his large waste management business, he began a quest to find the perfect business. He had investigated many relationship marketing companies because he liked the business model, and he was intrigued by Univera.
Richard was also skeptical and cautious, so he hired a professional business investigator to make sure the company was sound. The investigator couldn't find any holes in Univera. What he did find was world-class leadership; therefore, the decision to join Univera was easy for Richard and Patti.
Modeling behavior that incorporates the Golden Rule and mentoring those who are willing and able to participate as key leaders in the organization is what Richard and Patti believe are the key elements to developing a strong, solid organization. They have two basic character tests for a candidate with potential leadership: "Would we leave our children with this individual if needed?" and "Do I laugh a lot when around them?"
For Richard and Patti Ross, the bottom line of this business is the mission statement. They are so passionate about it that Patti composed additional lyrics and a melody and recorded it as a song:
We believe that the human body is a miracle,
That life can be extended in years and
Enriched in love, joy, peace and purpose.
For them, it's that simple.
Dave & Marcie Walther
Highlands Ranch, Colorado
After years of moving from one mediocre opportunity to the next, the Walthers were consciously seeking something that would deliver not only wealth, but also a life of meaning and purpose. A quotation by Norman Vincent Peale gave them the impetus they needed to make it happen: "Imagine the life you want and it will become your reality."
Dave had been working in corporate America and knew innately that he was missing something in his life. Meanwhile, Marcie was leading a stressful career in the healthcare industry. Univera was the vehicle to create their dream of financial freedom combined with a healthy lifestyle and plenty of time with their young family. In addition, they have reaped the benefits provided by the Univera product line such as limitless energy, optimism, and overall good health. This newfound energy keeps the Walthers going as they enjoy time with their children — camping, hiking, skiing, and fine dining. Their two-year-old daughter, Gracie, was joined by son Miles in May 2007.
The opportunity, leadership, and vision as communicated and practiced by Corporate leaders were the reasons Dave and Marcie joined Univera. The Walthers soon enjoyed financial freedom and a sense of purpose they had not found in previous occupations, including experiences with other network marketing companies. They have found both care and support at all levels of the Univera organization. Now that they have been successful in accomplishing their own goals, they can focus on assisting and empowering others to achieve their life goals. They realize that people get involved in Univera for a variety of reasons. They believe that the key to building a sound organization is to make their team feel good about their chosen level of involvement and support them in their decisions.
Today, the Walthers have a successful Univera business, strong relationships within their team, and freedom to live the life they desire. They live by their belief to consistently serve others with value, to live with a joyful outlook, and always to maintain an attitude of gratitude. Among their many special memories of belonging to the Univera family is Dave's favorite moment when he proposed to Marcie at the top of Keystone Mountain Resort in Colorado during the "Destiny Conference" Platinum and Diamond dinner. Chief Scientific Officer Stephen Cherniske had just pinned Marcie as a new Diamond, and owner Bill Lee bought the couple champagne.
Testimonials are from Independent Univera Associates.
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Harris Williams
Golden, Colorado
Univera was a perfect fit for Harris's lifestyle because, like many people in the fast pace of Western culture, he was looking for a community to which he could contribute and belong. Harris is a "yellow" in the Color Code, so it's innate for him to have fun. His careers have centered around athletics and recreation. He has been a fishing guide, tennis pro, windsurfing coach, and personal fitness trainer, among other endeavors. Unfortunately these extreme activities began to take a physical toll, and several years ago, he regularly experienced discomfort in his hip and knee. When a good friend shared Univera products with Harris, he noticed that within a short time, they began to make a huge impact in his overall health and wellness.
Intrigued by his experience with the products and at a crossroads in his life, he decided to find out more about this new company and the business opportunity offered by Univera. Upon hearing Bill Lee's mission and vision for Univera, Harris made the decision to become part of the Univera family. As one of the first Field leaders with Univera, it is important to Harris that the leaders at Corporate do their best to listen to and respond to the Field as partners. Harris has experienced that Univera is truly different from other companies because of the importance of Servant Leadership as a company philosophy, and the nurturing of partnerships with Field leaders.
Today, Harris is able to compete athletically with people half his age with a much faster recovery time, spend time with his son, and reap the financial rewards that a strong Univera business can offer. He believes that Univera has given him a vehicle that allows him to enjoy life while becoming a healthier, better person and leader. But it's not just about him. As Harris states: "Univera gives me the 100% belief and trust that we are here for the long run. This provides me the opportunity to change the lives of others — to help them grow and be the best they can be."
Testimonials are from Independent Univera Associates.
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David & Marcella Skultety
Tabernacle, NJ
Dave and Marcella were successful in other fields before joining Univera, Dave as a financial advisor and Marcella in pharmaceutical sales. Although their careers were rewarding, they found that the tradeoff in time wasn't worth it, particularly when they were unable to be fully involved in the lives of their three children. They were determined to live a healthy and prosperous life as full-time parents, and the Univera business opportunity provided the vehicle for that dream to unfold. As they say: "Having the ability to work from home is great, but being able to watch every new move that our young children make is priceless." Today, the Skultetys enjoy the freedom and flexibility that simply isn't found in mainstream corporate America.
In addition to being hands-on parents, Dave and Marcella want to help others achieve their dreams through Univera as well. And, according to Dave, being an independent Associate has much to offer: "We set our own schedules and work with people we want to work with. We have no employees, no inventory, and very little overhead." Superior products and a stellar business opportunity are an unmatched combination for them and make their job to recruit others easy.
On track to healthy aging and with the resources to live a healthy and secure life is something they feel blessed to have. They credit diligence and hard work for their success today and enjoy the hundreds of friends that they have made by working with a company whose sole mission is to bring the best of nature to humankind.
Testimonials are from Independent Univera Associates.
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Anjila Stimack
Arvada, Colorado
The Stimacks were looking for an investment opportunity after building and then selling their successful construction company. Anjila's background was as a self-described "hippie-chick" and artist, though she always had an interest in nutrition. Building their own successful business together was natural for the Stimacks. They were introduced to Univera products, and began to see improvements in many areas: mental focus and clarity, joint flexibility, strength, and stamina. Even though they are seven years older than when they began with Univera, they feel years younger.*
It was through their positive product experiences that Anjila and Geoff began to look at Univera in terms of the business opportunity. For them, Univera was a chance to take their interest in nutrition and turn that into a way to positively impact the health and wealth of others. When they began to research the company, they found that no other company was doing the level of scientific research or producing a superior quality of ethnobotanical products. This research and science gives the Stimacks the trust that Univera makes the best products available on the market.
Anjila and Geoff have always had the long-term dream to become self-funded missionaries; as savvy business partners, they knew that Univera could provide them with the residual income that would allow them to fulfill this dream. They also have a strong belief system evinced in their favorite passage from the Bible: "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths" (Proverbs 3:5-6). Currently they take great joy in supporting a pastor in Romania who is working with Gypsies, some of the poorest of the poor on earth. Thanks to Univera and Bill Lee's 100-year plan, the Stimacks are proud to be part of this winning team.
Testimonials are from Independent Univera Associates.
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