In this episode of the Modern Direct Seller Podcast, we sit down with Dave Grimaldi, the new President and CEO of the Direct Selling Association (DSA), for an insightful conversation about the future of the industry. With a background in government affairs and firsthand experience as a former direct seller, Dave shares what the DSA is doing to advocate for the channel at both the federal and state levels—especially when it comes to regulation, compliance, and protecting income opportunities. He dives into the importance of storytelling in building trust with policymakers, why now is a pivotal moment for advocacy, and how direct sellers can play a role in shaping what’s next.

Want to connect with Dave? He genuinely wants to hear from you! You can reach him directly by phone or text at 202-380-2203 or visit dsa.org to learn more about the Direct Selling Association and how to get involved.

Time based notes:

Inside the DSA: Dave Grimaldi on Advocacy, Compliance & What’s Ahead for Direct Sales

The direct selling world is changing—fast. And while most of us are focused on showing up, sharing products we love, and supporting our teams, there’s a whole other layer at play behind the scenes: advocacy, regulation, and making sure our businesses can actually keep thriving.

We recently sat down with Dave Grimaldi, the new President and CEO of the Direct Selling Association (DSA), and let’s just say… he gets it. Not only has he spent years in D.C. working in Congress, at regulatory agencies, and with trade associations, but—get this—he also got his start in college as a direct seller. So when he says he understands our world? He really does.

Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:

What the DSA Actually Does (and Why It Matters)

The Direct Selling Association (DSA) is the leading trade organization representing direct selling companies. Their job? Advocate for fair regulation, educate the industry, and protect the rights of companies and independent sellers like us.

Dave’s mission is crystal clear: keep unnecessary barriers out of our way so we can build our businesses. That means working with lawmakers, pushing back on overreaching legislation, and keeping a pulse on what’s happening in D.C. and beyond.

What You Can and Can’t Say About the Business Opportunity

Yep, this one’s a biggie. Dave dove into current laws that impact how we talk about income, opportunity, and financial freedom.

While it might feel natural to say “I paid for my car with this business” or “you can make extra income too,” claims like these can sometimes cross compliance lines—especially without the right context or disclaimers.

The DSA works closely with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and policymakers to help clarify (and hopefully loosen up) what we can say, while also keeping bad actors in check. Bottom line: protect your business by staying informed.

Educating the Industry, One Webinar at a Time

One of Dave’s big pushes at the DSA? Education. Whether you’re a corporate exec or in the field, the DSA is rolling out new tools like webinars, “DSA Direct Talks,” compliance certifications, and real talk around topics like morale, back-office systems, and industry shifts.

He emphasized that the more we all understand the big-picture issues, the better we can adapt, thrive, and protect the reputation of direct sales.

Want to Talk to Dave? He Means It.

Dave isn’t your average CEO—he’s showing up with genuine curiosity and energy, and he wants to hear from YOU. Seriously. He gave out his number at events, in our interview, and again here:

📱 Call or text Dave at 202-380-2203
🌐 Visit DSA.org to learn more

Whether you’ve got feedback, questions, or a story to share, he’s all ears.

What’s Ahead for Direct Sales?

Tariffs, economic shifts, recruiting challenges, income claim regulations—it’s a lot. But Dave’s perspective? We’re stronger when we stick together. The DSA is on the front lines making sure that policies don’t shut down opportunity, and that direct sellers continue to be recognized as the community-builders and changemakers we are.

His word for the future of the industry? People.

Relationships. Trust. Integrity. That’s what direct sales is all about—and always will be.

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