There’s something captivating about hearing directly from the visionaries who build successful companies from scratch; exploring their challenges and triumphs, and truly seeing the journey from start to success from someone who has lived it. These stories, their inspiration and the opportunities they have created for so many are what makes me so deeply passionate about the Direct Selling industry.

Working with so many diverse companies and cultures has shown me just how much impact each organisation can have. But there’s nothing more inspiring than hearing directly from a founder with a dream, a vision, and a mission to change lives. Today, we dive into the remarkable journey of Phil Hobby, the founder of Le Reve—a company that’s close to my heart and has an incredible story to tell.

Le Reve was one of the first companies I had the privilege of working with, and to this day, I am continually impressed by their commitment to their people and their story. Phil is not just a leader but a father of six, a grandfather to twenty, a board member of the Direct Selling Association, and a certified facilitator of The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. His journey is one of grit, passion, and unwavering determination to make a difference. 

Phil joins us in this episode to share his journey from the ground up in building Le Reve. You’ll hear about the challenges he faced, the pivotal moments that defined the company’s direction, and the values that continue to shape its success today. We explore the sacrifices and triumphs behind a thriving brand. Phil’s openness about the hurdles he faced—and what fueled his determination to overcome them offers incredible inspiration and encouragement to push forward with your own dreams.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur starting out or someone seeking inspiration, this conversation is for you. Get ready to uncover insights, wisdom, and plenty of motivation - tune in to join me as I sit down with the amazing Phil Hobby of Le Reve!

We’ll be talking about: 

➡ [0:00] Introduction

➡ [4:50] Catching up with Phil Hobby

➡ [5:26] Fun fact about Phil

➡ [5:55] The Le Reve story

➡ [12:55 Business and partnership

➡ [15:25] Why Direct Selling?

➡ [17:07] Fundamental steps in building business

➡ [19:57] What Le Reve means

➡ [21:40] A good business decision 

➡ [26:28] Having a positive attitude

➡ [30:14] Emotional vs proactive

➡ [35:25] Utilising a mentor 

➡ [40:01] Celebrating someone’s success

➡ [47:06] A family affair

➡ [53:03] Phil’s favourite Le Reve product

➡ [55:26] Advocate for 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

➡ [57:12] Phil Hobby’s recommended book

➡ [57:51] Phil Hobby’s dream superpower

➡ [1:01:39] Phil Hobby’s favourite quote

➡ [1:03:16] Phil Hobby’s advice to his past self

➡ [1:04:44] Final thoughts

Resources: 

Book Recommendations

➡ As a Man Thinketh by James Allen: https://bit.ly/3NL2Gjo

➡ 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Steven Covey: https://bit.ly/4hcRkC8

Quote:

➡  “The greatest achievement was at first and for a time, a dream. The oak sleeps in the acorn, the bird waits in the egg, and in the highest vision of the soul a waking angel stirs. Dreams are the seedlings of realities. ” - James Allen

About our guest:

Phillip Hobby, born in 1949 in Geelong, Victoria, is a seasoned leader and entrepreneur with a profound commitment to personal growth, family, and community. Married to Jennifer Christie, Phillip is a dedicated father to six children—Kimball, Jerusha, Alaine, Laura, John, and Sam—and a proud grandfather of 20.

In 1988, Phillip founded Le Reve, a thriving direct-selling company where he currently serves as CEO. His influence in the industry extends through his 13-year tenure on the Board of Direct Selling Australia (DSA), including four years as Chair. Recognized for his contributions, Phillip was awarded Life Membership in DSA in 2024.

With a strong focus on personal development, Phillip is a trained facilitator of Franklin Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People and has also served as a lay minister for over 40 years. A sports enthusiast, he has played representative basketball, squash, tennis, and Australian Rules football and remains an avid supporter of the Geelong Football Club.

Phillip’s greatest interests center around his family, church, friends, and community service, with a passion for reading and lifelong learning. His journey reflects a commitment to making a positive impact across multiple facets of life.

Connect with Phil Hobby and LeReve

➡ LeReve’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lereveaustralianz

➡ LeReve’s website: https://www.lereve.com.au/

➡ LeReve’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lereveaustralianz

➡ LeReve’s Youtube: www.youtube.com/@LeRevethedream

Connect with Direct Selling Accelerator:

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