Lies.Deceit vs. Honesty.Attitude
This is a post that might cause some controversy. To be honest however, I don’t care because the message here is so strong that I can’t worry about certain people’s egos being hurt.
It is a topic that is close to my heart. Not only because it affects a good friend of mine, but it also affects all of you out there who struggle from day to day, trying to make ends meet by paying your bills and feeding your family.
This post is about perceptions and deceit
A blogger many of us have come to know in the last 5 months or so has caused quite a stir in the blogosphere. The reason being is that he uses extensive foul language as some might call it and they take personal offense by this.
This guy has received some heavy criticism for it and people seemingly can’t stop to hackle him for his bad writing. On the surface that is all it seems. So he isn’t a best writer, so what.
He swears, calls other bloggers out and is called an asshole in return.
But if you look way deeper
You will find that Vic Franqui of Blogger Unleashed is actually one of the few better known bloggers who really cares about you and me!
I say that again – Vic really cares about you and me, especially if you are a new blogger trying to make money on the Internet. Also, all the lost souls who have tried and failed, while being taken advantage from by the so called big gurus will really love Vic, once they put their egos aside and start to listen what Vic has got to say.
Vic has made many enemies since starting his new blog. Especially the gurus who all crap their pants because he is stirring up the pot. How do I know? Because I got warned off Vic from one of these gurus myself.
The person told me to be careful with Vic, so I turned around and said that Vic is actually one of the few persons I have ever come across on the web in terms of teaching us honestly how to make money. That was the end of that. And no, I won’t name the person in question due to email confidentiality.
I can just imagine what goes on behind firewalls and email servers.
Vic called out some of the big guys like Darren from Problogger and Yaro Starak and in case you are wondering why I don’t link to them, have a guess?
He also called out Caroline Middlebrook. Caroline isn’t a big guru at all. She simply has a huge list of blue eyed followers who get lead down the wrong track and Vic called her out on that.
But I’m not writing a post because of this. I’m writing this because people still perceive Vic as an asshole just because he swears. If they would take their blinders off however, they would see who really gives the right advice. They would see who really does care for their success and well being.
They would also see that Vic is passionate about integrity and honesty and that is why he is like he is.
Look beyond the obvious and see the truth
If you really think that Vic is dishonest, an asshole and just out to get you because your name is (insert your favorite guru/scammer here) or whatever, look closer and you will see the real Vic and why he does what he does.
People couldn’t come more honest and with more integrity than Vic does! It’s simple really. I know, because I also got lead down the wrong track from all these so called gurus who enjoy stardom for scamming people off. Before all of you “gurus” crack the shits with me I’d like to say that there are also some really good guys under you of which I know several. Unfortunately, these gurus have the power to destroy the most and create the biggest irreparable damage.
And yes, they do scam because all they are interested in is making money off unsuspecting blood (freshlings), bloggers like you who are searching for the “holy grail” of Internet marketing.
These guys don’t send you a Skype message at 11PM asking how you are going and whether you need help in your business. Hell no, these guys wouldn’t even bother talking to you on Skype. All they are concerned with is to count their money and crack jokes with their best buddies who happen to be “other gurus”.
Guys, I have been online long enough to smell a fish or a rat and believe me, there are plenty of dead fish in the ocean of the net, victims of make belief success.
If you want to make money online, stop winging and look no further!
I’m serious, if you don’t learn how to make money from Vic and his “associated buddies” Court and Griz, you ought to go and clean toilets instead because you will never make any money.
For all those who already make money, you are exempt from this last sentence.
I’m just disgusted that people can’t see a good thing when they look at it. It beats me. So what, he swears – don’t we all at some stage? And even if you don’t, look beyond this and read into the actual message he is trying to convey.
I’m done.
Monika
About the Author: I'm a passionate freelance writer and problogger. To further build my business I'm also in the process of building my own niche empire which pays me residual income.
James Chartrand - Men with Pens | Apr 4, 2008 | Reply
Hm. Well, I’m fine with this, because I call crap when I see it myself (though I have a vested interest in keeping my children fed an housed, so I don’t push it).
The only thing that does bother me about the post is the Monika versus the world tone. Even with the brief disclaimer, the post begs the question about who you consider a good person and who you don’t.
I hope that I and Harry are not amongst those on your shit list – because we try to operate with integrity, honesty, respect and honor.
YC | Apr 4, 2008 | Reply
What I’ve seen so far is that people who actually think those scammers are great because they are all ‘nicey’ on their blogs and pictures. But like you said, if being nice is not swearing and smiling all the time but at the same time asking you to screw off when you sincerely ask for help and say hey wtf I am a busy man with my 100,000 readers who’re waiting to take the bait for my $97 ebook, I’d rather take the foul mouthed ‘asshole’ who extends his hand to help you without even any need for prompting and never asks for anything in return except for you to help others out with what you learned from him.
Wendi Kelly | Apr 5, 2008 | Reply
Hello Monica.
Well.
That was powerful.
Hmmm.You know what? I’m not even sure I am qualified to write a comment on this today, being so new and all. I’m not sure I know a dead smelling fish from a sweet tuna.
However, you have shown me time and time again that you personally are committed to helping others, especially new people ( I can attest to that) and if you say that Vic is a person to be trusted then well, your Personal (Capital P)recommendation carries a lot of weight with me.
In general, I always think it’s a good idea to handle oneself with a measure of professinalism and to that end, It takes a lot to get me to swear, but hey, maybe he’s awesome and just has a swearing disorder or something. I won’t judge…..:)
thanks for looking out for us little guys, its appreciaed.
Brett Legree | Apr 5, 2008 | Reply
Hi Monika,
Apologies for not getting over here to say hello until now (crazy day…)
I read this a couple of times and you wrote it with much conviction. From reading some of your other stuff, I understand you’ve been affected by these kinds of people in the past (MLM). These sorts of people tend to be very slick, they are “your friend” until they take your money and then… nothing.
And then there are people like Vic (I went and checked him out), rough around the edges but telling it like it is.
So I just wanted to say, thank you for writing a very thought provoking post. Like they say, never judge a book by its cover.
I consider myself lucky to have met great people such as yourself, James & Harry, and Wendi (hi Wendi!). These people *will* chat with you at 11 pm if you need help, and I know personally that you will too.
Thanks again my friend – here’s a virtual flat white, on me…
Brett
Wendi Kelly | Apr 5, 2008 | Reply
Monika, I went and checked out his site based on your recomendation. His story was very powerful. thanks.
Monika | Apr 5, 2008 | Reply
@ James: don’t worry, you guys are considered friends and thanks for asking BTW. It isn’t me against the world at all, but more so me against all the bullshit artists that grace our Internet shores.
Plus I’ve really had a gut full of all the lies that are being told. If just one person sees the light from this post, then it was worth it.
I don’t mingle with these people anyway. The people I’m in touch with are all honest and many are my friends.
I’m simply against injustice and unsuspecting people getting hurt. Gee, I should be a ninja warrior, guess what I would do?
Monika | Apr 5, 2008 | Reply
@ YC: exactly I’m totally with you on this one. I just don’t understand why there is a need for fakeness in the first place.
You know Vic is giving so much and he doesn’t even know that I wrote this post. Oh yes, he will see it sooner or later I guess. I had to write this to give something back and hopefully help others to see the truth.
Monika | Apr 5, 2008 | Reply
@ Wendy: you know, your comment is exactly what makes me tick and keep blogging. Because I want to exactly do what you said I do. So mission accomplished and onwards I go…
Thank you, I really appreciate your trust and compliment!
As for your qualification to comment. Yes you very much are! After all, it is people like you who get sucked into the wrong vortex and that is Vic is so determined in the first place to help you guys.
Yes he does swear a lot. Maybe he even has a disorder, there is a name for it too but I can’t think of it right now. LOL. (I know he doesn’t)…ah yes Tourette’s Syndrome is what I was thinking about. (thanks Brett
)
But he is a very passionate man and with passion comes tons of feelings. Feelings of distress, annoyance, anger and contempt. He says it like it is and in the process he steps on people’s feet.
But in his heart he is a man who would give his friends the shirt off his back.
Monika | Apr 5, 2008 | Reply
@ Brett: hey, I knew you’d come eventually buddy. You are dead right. I did get burned and I think that is where my own passion for justice comes into play.
I’m not good at politics and sucking up games at all. I’m more a quality time sort of person who defends her friends furiously until death if need be.
Maybe like mother bear. LOL. I’m also lucky to have met you and all my other friends I have found online.
Integrity and fairness are much more important to me than trying to rip others off in the process.
I simply couldn’t look at myself in the mirror again.
You are also right that I chat with anybody who needs my help at 11PM if need be.
Monika | Apr 5, 2008 | Reply
@ Wendy: you are very welcome. Thank you for taking the time. His story is indeed powerful and I’m sure you will find tons of useful information that will really help you.
Brett Legree | Apr 5, 2008 | Reply
@ Monika, I just *had* to get back here, as I’d read the post first thing this morning and carried it with me all day long.
You are a great friend, and you really do get it. Integrity. Fairness. The ability to look at yourself in the mirror every day. That is priceless.
Thanks again for a great post today – Brett
Monika | Apr 5, 2008 | Reply
@ Brett: thank you, I’m glad it resonated with you. It came from my heart.
Simonne | Apr 5, 2008 | Reply
I think that many people come to the internet with the mindset that they can become wealthy over night, so they are attracted by those websites which promise them that (even if it’s disguised in words like “write it and they will come”). This explains the huge readership they have. Well, Vic knows it’s not like that and he is telling things like they are. This can be annoying for many.
Regarding the language, I also swear and all my friends swear, so I really don’t see what’s wrong with that. Besides, for me it’s an English lesson I’ve never found in textbooks (I’m not a native English speaker, so I’m happy to extend my vocabulary).
2ThePoint | Apr 5, 2008 | Reply
Hi Monika!
Before my mum had her stroke, she used to swear in Igbo (Nigerian language). It sounded really nice, colourful and freeing. Never had a problem with it. Just giggled everytime she said it.
Everytime she had a stroke, she’d lose some of that fire, and I, without realising it, would adopt it.
I also have my ex to thank for my fiery tongue – we started swearing as a joke, then we got used to it, so now I swear in English too!
I think it partly depends on how you were brought up, and what lessons you decide(d) to internalise. It would influence how you react to certain things.
When people feel challenged, it’s often more about them and not the person that challenged them (though some wouldn’t admit to it). Just depends on whether they choose to learn the lesson this time round.
take care, women…. have a luv-er-ly weekend
2ThePoint | Apr 5, 2008 | Reply
Hi Monika
I wrote a response and it didn’t come up. Oh dear.
Forgotten what I said in it. Anyway, wouldn’t the world be a lovely place if swearing was the only thing we had to worry about
Diana | Apr 5, 2008 | Reply
Simonne was quicker than me
I think Vic doesn’t upset people with his swears, but with the truth he has the guts to said.
And regarding the swear, I remember a funny story from my life: when I was in high school, I had to take some organic chemistry extra hours. So I went with my father (who is a chemistry scientist) to talk with a man who somebody has recommended to us. That man was a very clever man, but he swears for every 3 words. My father never swears once in his life, so when I heard that man’s language, I was really frozen, because I liked him but I thought that my father will be thrilled listen so many swears. Fortunately, my father saw beyond the man’s language that he was a very clever man and for a year, that man was my teacher. And boy, I really liked organic chemistry
Now, my English isn’t my native language, but I understand English swear words pretty well, so listening Vic’s video, I was struggling to understand what he really wants to say and I didn’t pay too much attention to his swear words. And because he had something very important to said, I was pretty amazed that many people have heard only the swear.
Markk | Apr 6, 2008 | Reply
Just popped over from Grizz’s blog. Read your comment there about “another lady circling the blogosphere…” and I wonder whether we have the same blogger in mind. She’s one capable writer like Caroline, but she’s dishing out tons of rehashed ideas laced with catchy words and contrived smarts. BTW, hats off for painting an honest perspective of Vic. Cheers!
Monika | Apr 7, 2008 | Reply
@ Simonne: you are absolutely correct in your observations. I can to a certain degree understand why some people take offense on the swearing bit. I don’t, because I see what Vic is trying to say.
What I can’t understand is when people just don’t get get it.
Monika | Apr 7, 2008 | Reply
@ 2ThePoint: my mistake your comment didn’t come up fast enough. It was stuck in comment moderation and I took a day off. You are fine from now on anyway.
As for your comment. Yes, I see where you are coming from. I know from my upbringing that people who are brought up in more temperate languages like Italian, French, Spanish and Portuguese are a lot more fiery in their speech and hand movements.
They have fire in their bellies and they show it. We English speaking race and as a matter of fact Germans too are a lot more subdued. Swearing they tell you from a young age isn’t a thing one should do. I grew up with this belief myself and when I started working in commercial kitchens I was so naive that I didn’t say “bo to a goose”.
I was taught respect and I overdid it because it burned me many times. Only many years later I learned that I had to stand up for myself and if that involved occasional swearing, so be it, it had to be done.
In the end it has a lot to do with how we are brought up and I learned long ago that we shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.
Monika | Apr 7, 2008 | Reply
@ Diana: you are obviously a very smart woman.
You hit the point on the head when you said “I think Vic doesn’t upset people with his swears, but with the truth he has the guts to said.”
That is exactly true. None of us likes to hear the truth when it concerns us, me included. Sometimes however we just have to step beyond our own ego, chew the pill with a bitter after taste and move on.
Monika | Apr 7, 2008 | Reply
@ Markk: thank you for your compliment. I wonder too, but then who knows. From what you said it could be though. LOL.
Irene | Apr 7, 2008 | Reply
Oh Geez – I hopped on over to Blogger Unleashed from this site and spent the whole day there reading and watching Vic’s videos.
Thanks for bringing him to my attention, and to the truthiness in what’s happening in the blogosphere’s A list.
Hunter Nuttall | Apr 7, 2008 | Reply
Wow! I hadn’t heard of Vic before, but thanks for bringing him to my attention. His blog is certainly interesting, to say the least! I’m not sure what to think just yet, but I’ll check him out.
Monika | Apr 7, 2008 | Reply
@ Irene: LOL, I guess you can blame me for keeping you busy for the day.
I’m glad you now know there are other ways to earn money online and hope you will take what you learn from Vic and convert it into profit.
Monika | Apr 7, 2008 | Reply
@ Hunter: It was a pleasure. I hope for your sake that you look past his colorful language.
Lin Burress | Apr 7, 2008 | Reply
Hi Monika,
I’m a big fan of Vic and Grizz that you’ve mentioned, and have been following along with them for quite some time now.
As you know, I’m a big believer in telling it like it is, regardless of the subject matter. Bullshit artists and scammers aren’t my cup a’ tea, but with Vic and Grizz and Court, they tell you the truth and don’t make it all flowery and pretty. They tell it like it is, and I have tremendous respect for people/bloggers who do just that.
When I first discovered Vic’s blog and saw the numerous F-bombs, it bothered me for a short time simply because that word is offensive to me personally, but I was able to look past the language and found there is real value in what he does. I’ve learned a lot from Vic, Grizz and Court, and bloggers would do well to subscribe to each of these guys and really pay attention to what they’re teaching.
Brent Crouch | Apr 11, 2008 | Reply
Thanks for posting about Vic. I had never heard of him before, but after visiting his blog, I am a subscriber. I love to hear from people that are passionate about what they believe. It takes 2 seconds to realize Vic is one of these people. Besides, he has some really good ideas on his site.
Freedom Writers | Apr 12, 2008 | Reply
Well said Monika. Just think what we could have achieved by now had we known Vic 6 months earlier!
Terry
Monika | Apr 12, 2008 | Reply
@ Brent: yes, he certainly has. He is a unique person amongst much noise, even though he creates other noise (does this make sense?) LOL, it is late and I have been online all day. Hope you get what I mean.
@ Terry: oh you are so right. I could have actually done with Vic some years ago. The money I would have saved …and made.
Jenny | Apr 25, 2008 | Reply
Monika,
I now will have to check out Vic’s site as I am quite intrigued. I think I can already attest that sometimes it’s a release to use swear words, sometimes the passion just takes over and things come out and that is what makes it that much more impactful.
Thanks, I look forward to more from you!
Monika | Apr 25, 2008 | Reply
@ Jenny: LOL, hope you will be delighted and not worry too much about the f-bombs. Let me know what you think please, as it is always great to get different opinions.
Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment.
It is always nice to see new faces.
Cath Lawson | May 2, 2008 | Reply
Hi Monika – This is a great post and it really opens your eyes as to how you can easily be influenced in the blogosphere.
I must confess, that I haven’t read much of Vic’s blog – but I have heard of him and it always seems to be bad news. So, I guess that I’ve been one of those who has been guilty of judging without knowing. Sorry. I will take the time to check out Vic’s blog with an open mind.
Love the pic by the way – priceless.
Monika | May 3, 2008 | Reply
@ Cath: it will be interesting to see whether you’ll change your mind or not. Vic has the ability to aggravate those he ridicules which is only understandable.
You know, the longer I think about it, the more I have to say that I am not a fan of swearing and pointing fingers at others. BUT…
I know that Vic really only wants to help people to make money online. Real money.
He has such a passion for this cause and that is why he comes across real strong and to many people an a..
However, despite the agro he has caused it was about time somebody did come out with pro-active action since too many people get hurt believing everything that is dished out to them by those with the big lists.
So yes, he does get a lot of bad credit, but you have to ask yourself why? The real why!
Cath Lawson | May 3, 2008 | Reply
Hi Monika – I checked out Vic’s blog and he does come across as being genuine.
I too upset a lot of people, because I tell them what I think of them when they do something I dislike. This often goes down badly because a lot of folk seem to prefer sugar coated lies, as opposed to the bitter truth. So I know how Vic feels. But upsetting a few people is better than not being heard at all.
Monika | May 4, 2008 | Reply
@ Cath: great to hear your feedback. I’m with you on this as we seem to be very much alike. I have been know to step right “into it” on quite a few occasions but like you, I rather say the truth than sissy talk.
Maybe that is why Vic resonated so much with me.
Komodo Dragon | Jun 1, 2008 | Reply
this is a good eyeopener about blogging