How can we attract and inspire younger generations to thrive in Direct Selling? That’s a question many of us are grappling with as we think about the future of the Direct Selling industry. Today, I’m thrilled to introduce someone who is not only asking that question but has dedicated her career to finding the answers: the incredible Heather Chastain.

Heather is the founder of Bridgehead Collective and is a seasoned professional with over 28 years of experience in the direct selling industry. Her journey has included key roles in various direct selling companies, as well as serving on the board of directors for the Direct Selling Association (DSA). Along the way, she’s amassed a wealth of knowledge and insights, which she now channels into helping companies and field leaders navigate a rapidly evolving landscape.

Recognizing a significant shift in the industry, Heather established Bridgehead Collective to provide the tools and guidance necessary for growth and adaptation. Her passion lies in helping businesses embrace data-driven solutions, empowering them to see the bigger picture. Heather has done extensive research into understanding generational dynamics—what makes them tick, the language they use, and how best to connect with them.

For those of you wondering, How can I attract the younger generation? What do I need to say or do?—this conversation will be a game-changer. Heather shares data-driven insights into the shifts shaping our industry, offering practical advice on how to reframe our message to resonate with the next generation.

I’m excited to share my interview with the amazing and inspiring Heather Chastain. Let’s dive in and learn how to bridge the gap to a vibrant and sustainable future.

Enjoy the episode!

We’ll be talking about: 

➡ [0:00] Introduction

➡ [3:08] Catching up with Heather Chastain

➡ [8:50] Brief background about Heather

➡ [14:42] Biggest shift in Direct Selling industry

➡ [17:27] Two separate lives. Two separate worlds

➡ [20:42] Younger generation’s perception of the Direct Selling industry

➡ [24:09] Income producing activity separate from their life

➡ [26:41] Why do generation research?

➡ [30:48] Surprising results 

➡ [37:48] Driving force that attracts the younger generation to Direct Selling

➡ [39:55] Loyalty among younger generations

➡ [47:28] Words to use and words to avoid  

➡ [52:24] What platforms and how younger generations use them

➡ [57:23 Simple steps to attract young people to join your team

➡ [1:02:26] Heather’s recommended book

➡ [1:03:40] Heather’s dream superpower

➡ [1:05:16] Heather’s favourite quote

➡ [1:07:28] Heather’s advice to her past self

➡ [1:10:08] Final thoughts

Resources: 

Book Recommendations

➡ Getting Things Done by David Allen: https://bit.ly/415HAE3

Quote:

➡  “Mistrust all enterprises that require new clothes” - Henry David Thoreau

About our guest:

Heather Chastain, founder of Bridgehead Collective, is a seasoned professional with 28 years of experience in the direct selling industry. Having worked in various roles within the home office of different companies and served on the Board of Directors for the DSA and Chair of the Ethics and Self-Regulation Committee, Heather has gained a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Recognizing the inevitability of a significant shift in the industry, she started Bridgehead Collective with the aim of helping everyone in the channel navigate the changing landscape and make pivotal choices for the future.

Heather's passion lies in helping companies and field leaders see the bigger picture and embrace data-driven solutions. Her conversations with industry leaders, her own experiences and her commitment to independent research in the industry have shaped her belief that we all must adapt and pivot to stay ahead of the curve. With her deep understanding of the industry and her commitment to driving positive change, Heather is a champion for and strives to be a valuable voice in the direct selling community.

Connect with Heather Chastain

➡ Heather Chastain’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeatheratShaklee/

➡ Heather Chastain’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-chastain-46516810a/

➡ Heather Chastain’s Podcast https://www.directsellingnews.com/iconic-insights/

Bridgehead Collective

➡ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bridgehead-collective/

➡ Website: https://www.bridgeheadcollective.com/

Connect with Direct Selling Accelerator:

➡ Visit our website: https://www.auxano.global/

➡ Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DirectSellingAccelerator

➡ Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/auxanomarketing/

➡ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/auxanomarketing/

➡ Email us: community_manager@auxano.global

If you have any podcast suggestions or things you’d like to learn about specifically, please send us an email at the address above. And if you liked this episode, please don’t forget to subscribe, tune in, and share this podcast.