In this episode of the Modern Direct Seller Podcast, we’re joined by Academy VIPs Melissa Thury and Mendy Paxton for a real and inspiring conversation about making bold 10x moves in business and life. From launching websites and coaching programs to creating digital products and navigating big transitions, Melissa and Mendy share how they’re stepping outside their comfort zones and saying yes to growth. We also talk about overcoming imposter syndrome, staying grounded through change, and the importance of surrounding yourself with a supportive community.

Want to connect with Melissa and Mendy? You can find Melissa over on Facebook at Balance and Business with Melissa or on Instagram at @melissathury. Mendy’s website is bloom2beyou.com, and she’s also active on Instagram at @bloom2beyou. Give them a follow and cheer them on as they make big moves this year!

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Making Bold 10x Moves in Business with Melissa Thury & Mendy Paxton

On this episode of the Modern Direct Seller Podcast, we’re shining the spotlight on two incredible Academy VIPs who are making bold, business-shifting moves—Melissa Thury and Mendy Paxton.

Whether you’re launching something new, pivoting in your business, or navigating the messy middle, you’re going to love the real talk and inspiration packed into this conversation.

What Is a 10x Move?

Before we dive in—what exactly is a 10x move? It’s a term we’ve been using in the Academy (inspired by the book 10x Is Easier Than 2x) to describe the kind of bold, focused action that can lead to exponential growth. It’s not about doing more—it’s about doing the right things that make the biggest impact.

For Melissa and Mendy, 10x moves looked a little different—but both were rooted in clarity, courage, and a deep commitment to growth.

Mendy’s Story: Doing It Messy, Doing It Anyway

Mendy Paxton is the founder of Bloom to Be You, where she offers permanent jewelry, personalized accessories, and a whole lot of encouragement to help women feel confident exactly where they are.

Even while working full-time in nursing administration, Mendy made space for growth this year—including launching her Oh My Hi website and preparing to release her first digital product.

Her biggest mindset shift? “Do it messy.” Mendy shared how letting go of the need to be perfect has helped her show up more consistently, more authentically, and with way less pressure.

“I’m not here to be perfect—I’m here to serve.”

She also talked about staying in her lane and going at her own pace, reminding us all that comparison is the thief of joy (especially in an industry where we’re often striving for the same milestones).

Melissa’s Story: Starting Fresh—and Saying Yes

Melissa Thury spent over seven years in direct sales before taking a huge leap in 2025: she left her company, launched her coaching business Balance and Business with Melissa, and hasn’t looked back.

From launching (and relaunching) her website to creating content, building out group programs, and booking speaking engagements, Melissa’s year has been all about saying yes to the things she used to put off.

She opened up about imposter syndrome and the internal shift she made in owning her expertise:

“I’ve been teaching for years—I just didn’t call it coaching.”

Melissa’s mantra? Do it scared. And with that mindset, she’s building something powerful that supports women in finding balance in life and business.

Let’s Talk Imposter Syndrome…

Both Melissa and Mendy kept it real when it came to imposter syndrome. That voice that tells you you’re not ready, not qualified, or not enough? It shows up even at the highest levels of business.

Here’s how they move through it:

• Remembering their track records and the lives they’ve already impacted
• Giving themselves grace and not waiting for perfection
• Staying grounded in their mission to serve others, not just to perform
• Leaning on community for encouragement, perspective, and tough love

The Power of Community

One theme that came up again and again in this episode? The power of having the right people in your corner.

Melissa and Mendy both credited the Academy VIP community for helping them see their own potential—and for lovingly calling them up when they were thinking too small.

We all need people who believe in us before we believe in ourselves. And when you’re surrounded by others chasing big goals, it’s easier to make those scary 10x moves a reality.

Final Takeaways: What Would You Tell Your Past Self?

Melissa: “Don’t be afraid of change. Embrace it. The worst that can happen is you learn what you don’t want to do.”

Mendy: “Do it scared. Do it messy. That’s better than waiting for perfection.”

Their advice? Start before you’re ready. Keep going when it gets uncomfortable. And don’t let stability stop you from making the leap that could change everything.

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