For those navigating a difficult economy, the appeal of financial freedom and flexible, remote work is hard to ignore. Darren Campbell’s FBA Brand Builder program markets itself as the gateway to achieving these dreams.

However, several sources who’ve reached out to us describe the enrollment process as a high-stakes sales pitch that’s designed to tap into personal vulnerabilities and, in some cases, even push people toward debt.

The Sales Pitch: “This Is Your Only Chance”

A recurring theme among the accounts we’ve received is the heavy emotional pitch given during initial calls with FBA Brand Builder representatives. Many describe a strong emphasis on the idea that this program is a unique opportunity—one they shouldn’t pass up.

One source shared how they were told that delaying would mean “losing their spot” and potentially their only chance at financial freedom. Statements like “this could be the only way to get your life back” make it sound like an urgent, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. These pressure tactics can be especially impactful for those facing financial difficulties or wanting a way out of the traditional 9-to-5 structure.

The exclusivity clause in the FBA Brand Builder contract means that once clients join, they’re unable to seek similar services elsewhere. Additionally, the “no refund” policy makes it difficult for clients to back out once they commit, creating a scenario where the emotional push to join is backed by a legally binding agreement that locks them in financially. For more on these contractual elements, check out this article.

Encouragement to Take on Debt

Several sources say they were encouraged to apply for loans or credit cards to cover the enrollment fee, which starts at £6,500. One client described being told to “find a way” to secure the funds, while another was advised that taking on debt was a “small sacrifice” for future financial independence.

This advice doesn’t come without risks, especially when debt can lead to a cycle of financial strain if the expected returns don’t materialize. For some, these upfront costs were just the beginning. Reports indicate that additional payments and upgrades were suggested as clients progressed, adding to their financial commitments beyond the initial payment.

The contract’s terms around payment and late fees only add to the financial strain. Late payments incur a 4% interest rate above the Bank of England’s base rate, making it particularly hard for clients to recover if their income lags behind initial projections. For more on payment and financial penalties, read Financial Strain and Unanticipated Costs in FBA Programs.

The Belief Factor: Shifting Responsibility

Another strategy frequently mentioned by clients is the emphasis on “belief” as a requirement for success. In promotional videos, Darren Campbell and his team often assert that self-belief is the single most important factor in achieving financial freedom. While confidence and self-motivation are essential, this messaging reportedly extends to shifting responsibility entirely onto clients when they encounter setbacks.

One former client described feeling isolated when they experienced difficulty turning a profit. “Instead of giving us actionable support, they told us we needed to believe more,” they said. In other words, the program places the burden of success squarely on the individual, sidestepping accountability for practical outcomes. Clients are led to believe that failure is a personal flaw, rather than a potential flaw in the program.

Exploiting Personal Vulnerabilities

One of the more troubling patterns among the stories shared is the program’s reported tendency to exploit personal struggles as a reason to join. Sources describe conversations where they were encouraged to join “for the sake of their families,” “to set an example for their children,” or even to give a non-working spouse a purpose. Some say that Campbell himself discussed how the program allowed him to spend more time with his family, suggesting that the same could be true for new clients.

One participant recalled being encouraged to sign up with phrases like “your kids will remember the time you missed” due to a traditional job. This angle, which appeals to personal relationships, adds to the emotional weight of joining the program.

The Aftermath: Financial and Emotional Toll

Many former clients we spoke to have said they experienced lasting financial and emotional repercussions after joining. For those who took on debt to cover the initial cost, the additional expenses for “upgraded” stages and supplier costs created a long-term financial burden that was difficult to manage. Some are now facing mounting interest charges on high-interest loans, with no clear way out.

Emotionally, these clients say they felt they couldn’t share their experiences openly due to confidentiality clauses in the contract. The non-disparagement clause specifically prohibits them from discussing their experiences publicly, which limits the support they can seek from others who may have faced similar challenges.

This confidentiality requirement, coupled with an exclusivity clause, isolates clients who may have concerns about the program, making it harder for them to reach out or share experiences openly. For more on these restrictions, see Transparency and Accountability in the FBA Brand Builder Program: What’s Missing?.

Keep Questioning Everything

For those weighing whether to join high-cost mentorship programs, it’s essential to look beyond the emotional pitch and consider the broader financial commitments involved. Transparent programs should clearly outline realistic timelines for returns, detailed breakdowns of costs, and provide case studies or metrics that go beyond success stories.

The accounts we’ve received from former FBA Brand Builder clients suggest that, instead of transparency, the program leans heavily on emotional appeal and urgency. This approach not only places clients at financial risk but also limits their ability to assess the program fully before committing.