As we step into 2025, I wanted to take a moment to reflect, share, and connect with all of you—those who’ve been with me on this journey for years and those who may have just recently discovered my work. For those who know me as Joseph (or Marc—yes, both are me!), here’s a quick recap for clarity: I officially began using my real first name, Joseph, in May of 2023, but most people still call me Marc, which is my... CONTINUED BELOW 🔽
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Hey friends,
As we step into 2025, I wanted to take a moment to reflect, share, and connect with all of you—those who’ve been with me on this journey for years and those who may have just recently discovered my work.
For those who know me as Joseph (or Marc—yes, both are me!), here’s a quick recap for clarity: I officially began using my real first name, Joseph, in May of 2023, but most people still call me Marc, which is my middle name. The truth? Back when I first started online in 2015, I went with Marc because I was a little apprehensive about putting my full self out there. Funny how things come full circle, right? Today, I’m all in—and here to share not just my name, but my story, my goals, and my heart. (Because I know you care!)
If you’re curious about the whole journey, you can find the nitty-gritty details on my story page. But for now, let’s talk about where I’ve been, where I’m headed, and what this new year means for all of us.
Resolutions: The Ongoing Journey
First, let’s talk discipline.
Two years ago, in January 2023, I quit drinking. Sobriety is one of those commitments that doesn’t just “stick” on its own—it requires intention and daily effort. I’m proud to say I’ve stayed true to this resolution for two years, and I’m equally determined to keep it going strong in 2025.
Around the same time, I faced another major challenge: my health. I weighed almost 300 pounds back then, and over the past two years, I’ve worked hard—really hard—to shed nearly 100 pounds. I weighed in at 198 just last week, but here’s the thing: reaching a goal isn’t the end. Maintaining it, staying in that sweet spot of 200-210 pounds, requires ongoing discipline. So here’s to another year of showing up for myself, every single day.
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New Beginnings
Now, for the exciting part: the new resolutions for 2025!
Last year marked a significant milestone in my life—I officially retired from Network Marketing after 10 incredible years in the industry. For those of you who’ve been part of that journey, you’ll know it was a wild ride. Over the decade, I worked with 17 companies, built teams of over 25,000 distributors, and earned over $2 million in commissions. I learned a lot, grew a lot, and connected with some amazing people along the way.
But here’s the truth: while I’ll always cherish those experiences, my heart has shifted. My true passion lies in teaching—helping others master personal branding, online marketing, content creation, sales strategies, and embracing emerging technologies like AI. That’s where I’m putting all of my energy in 2025.
The Vision for Branding YOUniversity
Branding YOUniversity had its best year yet in 2024, with around 100,000 students and 3,000 affiliates joining us on this incredible journey. And while those numbers are fantastic, the vision for 2025 is about growth that feels meaningful.
Our goal? 125,000 students and 3,500 affiliates by the end of the year. But more importantly, I’m laser-focused on helping our current affiliates win bigger. I want to see more people earning larger commission checks, building their own businesses, and living their dreams.
Here’s the fun part: I already know how to make it happen. With the power of AI, I’ll be refining our autoresponder system, delivering even more valuable offers, and rolling out groundbreaking courses that push the boundaries of what’s possible.
And for my Network Marketers out there: I’ve got you covered. This year, I’ll be launching 'Personal Branding for Network Marketers' courses inside Branding YOUniversity. I’ve spent a decade in the industry, and now that I’m retired from it, I can share everything I’ve learned without anyone worrying about competition. Let’s build something amazing together.
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A Personal Note
If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years—from my highs and my lows, from losing my father to finding myself, from struggling with substance abuse to rebuilding my life—it’s this:
Your past does not define your future. Your potential is limitless if you’re willing to believe in yourself and do the work.
I’ve been homeless and hopeless. I’ve been at rock bottom, eating at soup kitchens and wondering if things would ever change. And yet, here I am, living the life of my dreams, not because I’m special, but because I refused to give up.
2025 is going to be an incredible year, not just for me, but for all of us. Whether you’re a Branding YOUniversity affiliate, a student, or someone just looking for a little inspiration, I hope my journey reminds you that anything is possible.
Here’s to discipline, to dreams, and to doing what we love.
Happy New Year,
Joseph Marc Lalonde (but you can still call me Marc)
🎉 Happy New Year, 2025: A Message from Marc ❤️
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