I promise…

No matter how cool Gabe and Max are…

No matter how many Rolex watches or trips to the Playboy Mansion they offer me…

I promise that they will NOT be speaking at the System Seminar this year.

But maybe I’m being too hard on them. You tell me.

To see who IS speaking at System Seminar 2008, click here.

For the full list of this year’s System 2008 faculty, you can click on this link.

– Ken McCarthy

P.S. For over 25 years I’ve been sharing the simple but powerful things that matter in business with my clients.

If you’d like direction for your business that will work today, tomorrow and twenty years from now, visit us at the System Club.

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49 Responses to I promise…

  1. Duane January 29, 2008 at 3:46 pm #

    I’m sure your putting us on, Ken, but no — I wouldn’t let these guys speak at Pelican State Prison.

    PS Thanks for the great seminar in Cincinnati a few years back. When I came the internet was 5% of our business. Now it is 95%.

  2. Jeff Wells January 29, 2008 at 3:54 pm #

    Gabe and Max make a compelling case. But they left out one important thing, the Fax # to send an email address to.

    They could have used a real fax # just to see what kind of responses they got.

  3. Jay Reynolds January 29, 2008 at 3:54 pm #

    This is hilarious.

    And the scary thing is how close this to being close to the truth.

    Thanks for NOT having “Gabe and Max” – the the thousands of Gabe and Max look-alikes – at the System

  4. Sean January 29, 2008 at 3:57 pm #

    I think they are hilarious. They’d be great for entertainment at a System Seminar.

    “Fax us your email address NOW!” is a great line.

  5. Ken McCarthy January 29, 2008 at 3:58 pm #

    Humor is a tricky thing…so yes indeed, this is a humor video.

    My programmer and I watched it yesterday and we laughed ourselves on the floor.

    Marc Andreessen, the inventor of the web browser and the co-founder of Netscape, posted it on his blog.

    He says Gabe and Max remind him of some of the people who come to him for investment money.

    Believe me, they’re in every industry!

  6. Jonathan Ginsberg January 29, 2008 at 4:04 pm #

    I think this video is a clever viral marketing tactic. At the seminar, Ken will reveal that this video garnered more page views than even the most successful text only “sales page” for an Internet marketing product. Ken will use this as a case study in support of video.

  7. Garrett January 29, 2008 at 4:05 pm #

    It’s like Napoleon Dynamite meets our local used car salesmen.

    Entertaining. They never break character either.

    🙂

  8. Howard Rosenberg January 29, 2008 at 4:24 pm #

    YES.

    Gabe and Max SHOULD be invited to present at the upcoming System Seminar.

    Why?

    Basic human nature.

    It’s sometimes easier to define our targets by what we DON’T want than by what we DO want.

    These two fellows make a compelling case for what it is we shouldn’t –
    – take for granted
    – or do in our business

    My 2C.

    Howard

  9. pmackie January 29, 2008 at 4:39 pm #

    Those guys are so dumb. Aren’t they everybody? We should make sure we never ever look, or sound or smell like them. But mostly, they’re really dumb, and it’s so obviousness. It really ofends the retardiness of all past seminar graduets.

  10. Gilles Boulanger January 29, 2008 at 4:45 pm #

    I agree with the post by Jonathan Ginsberg.
    Nice way of doing a quick case study.

  11. Evelynn Kelly January 29, 2008 at 4:46 pm #

    These guys are so phony it isn’t even funny. They are reading script and need to practice speaking for public appearance.
    You are so right not to have them at your seminar. The invitation to Playboy mansion is disgusting.

  12. Dale R. Smith January 29, 2008 at 4:47 pm #

    Ken … I am not sure you will ever see this eMail replay but let me commend you for giving up the Lambo, the Rolex, trip to the mansion … and all the other “prizes.” I am not sure those two guys are for real but their “pitch” was incredibly amatuerish and in bad taste. I hope video on the Internet is not going in that direction. I have a Web site that addresses this sort of garbage … http://www.medicineshowmarketing.com … please, PLEASE stop this nonsense now.

    Regards … Dale R Smith

  13. Ken McCarthy January 29, 2008 at 4:49 pm #

    Dale,

    I do read these posts. It’s half the fun of blogging.

    But rest assured, Gabe and Max are NOT for real…I think.

  14. Jimi James January 29, 2008 at 4:51 pm #

    Anybody that talks with gum in their mouth is sooo unprofessional and they look like total slobs.

  15. Becky January 29, 2008 at 4:53 pm #

    Ken,
    There is more to this than just an offer…(a resistable one at that). You are using a new strategy and it is an exceptional execution of it.

    These guys are the typical “NOT” of internet marketing and only the naive would submit to their offer.

    Your offer, however, is exceptional and I am looking forward to getting to your System’s Seminar 2008.

  16. Dale January 29, 2008 at 4:53 pm #

    Ken

    There is enough foolishness of regular TV and we don’t need it on Internet video.

    These two jokers have copied routines from many comedians of the past, albeit in a very boring format.

    Their humor is so base I am really wondering if they really have something for sale … I doubt it.

    But suppose they are attempting to sell their “program” … what a really bad waste of time and effort.

    Before all viewers jump to the conclusion that I am just an old fuddy duddy, let me confirm this thought. I AM an old FD and I am proud of it. I don’t need foolishness such as these two guys are showing to make a customer out of me.

    I realize that plain, hard facts can be a little boring but, please, don’t go overboard the other way.

    On a scale of 1 to 10, this pitiful routine does not make it to ONE.

    I am waiting for all the acid from the youngsters on the Internet.

    Dale (Old Squid)

  17. Patsi Krakoff, The Blog Squad January 29, 2008 at 4:55 pm #

    I think these guys make great keynote speakers at your event!!! We often learn by seeing what not to do, no?

    If they’re not available, The Blog Squad is. We’re a lot cuter, but maybe not so funny: we take business blogging really serious…

    Okay, Ken, I’m waiting for your call: 858-523-9833

  18. Bill January 29, 2008 at 5:07 pm #

    Great for the interval Ken.
    But no on a serious note PlayBoy
    Mansion, Rolex Watches,
    Lamborghini, got to pimps or
    Drug dealers?

  19. Danno January 29, 2008 at 5:12 pm #

    Someone posted this on my Facebook wall a few days ago and I almost hurt myself laughing. Obviously these guys aren’t serious. Their bit was well-scripted and they stayed in character the entire time. Excellent.

    They may have something for sale down the road, but for now, just sit back and enjoy their comedy routine. And if this didn’t make you laugh, maybe you should take a break from being so damn serious. It’s a joke.

    I don’t think they should be at System 2008, unless Ken decides we need some comic relief and only then with the understanding that they develop a new routine. We’ve all seen this one.

    Thanks Ken, for another chance to laugh.

  20. KirstiH January 29, 2008 at 5:17 pm #

    I think they’re hot 😉

    What a kick! I don’t think I could be so deadpan if I tried! Thanks for a great laugh!

  21. James Clark - Capture the Conversation January 29, 2008 at 5:31 pm #

    Brilliant use of humor Ken. It got our attention, everyone in our offices has looked at it.

  22. Bruce January 29, 2008 at 5:35 pm #

    Well, I happen to have taken Gabe and Max’s course last year, and it was well worth it.

    The 431 internet secrets turned out to be like almost 435 secrets (tho many were repeated) and the chapter on internet dating helped me find my one true love – finally.

    I’m happy to say she is not that expensive, at least when prepaid, and I owe it all to Gabe and Max.

    AS I write this I’m planning on taking their highly advanced course, “The Internets- More Advanced So It Costs More Money” Course….

    my goal is to be financially freedom like Gabe and Max – hopefully before my basement fills any higher. Thanks for the chance.

  23. Dale January 29, 2008 at 5:36 pm #

    They would be great for a comedy sketch at the seminar. They are the used car opportunist salesmen of internet marketing, capitalizing on inexperienced marketers who themselves haven’t a clue, but know there’s money to be made in the “How To” niche.

    Hire them

  24. James January 29, 2008 at 5:37 pm #

    Hilarious — and brilliantly acted. I can’t quite believe it but I think some previous commenters thought they were for real!

  25. Robin Lee January 29, 2008 at 6:08 pm #

    Sure, why not? They’re obviously spoofing (but please check them out first in case they’re for real) – they are certainly generating a lot of talk and publicity, and sometimes that is the whole point.
    Might be entertaining.

  26. Diana January 29, 2008 at 6:38 pm #

    Laughter really is the Best Medicine. Are you interviewing comedy acts for your seminars? But seriously, sometimes the real thing is just as bad. ex. http://www.saturdaysale.com/
    I went to this Geek garage sale several years ago. UGH!!!

  27. Serge from France January 29, 2008 at 6:43 pm #

    FUN! Send her e-mail address by fax.
    I never thought there would. I am curiux how many people will do that. The telecom will make a fortune with these guys.

  28. Susan Fuller January 29, 2008 at 7:01 pm #

    Too funny! Thanks for sharing.

    Susan

  29. Paulette January 29, 2008 at 7:13 pm #

    Ken:

    Hilarious, thanks for the laugh. They remind me of many of the internet marketing low life marketers; who feed off our desperation for a better life. Comedy always exposes the truth.

  30. John January 29, 2008 at 7:14 pm #

    LOL very funny, Ken. Thanks for creating this vid and posting. 😀

  31. Roy January 29, 2008 at 7:50 pm #

    Ken,

    These guys are funny. IM meeds some satire

  32. david January 29, 2008 at 8:26 pm #

    It seems that a few people “didn’t get the joke.” It’s a joke. IMHO, this was a brilliantly scripted piece. It made me laugh harder than anything I’ve encountered in a long time (well, this week, anyway). Kudos to “Gabe” and “Max” for some good clean fun. And it’s true – the internet really ISN’T just for scientists anymore 🙂

  33. Harlman January 29, 2008 at 8:47 pm #

    I have just faxed them my email address but havent heard anything!!! Is any1 else having this problem???

  34. Tom January 29, 2008 at 9:19 pm #

    What a load of faxist cobblers.

    Gabe and Max are the “taste of a new IM generation”, they know how to “Just Don’t It” and “They try easier”.

    They really can “Reach out and flummox someone” and their pitch is up there with “The Ultimate Faxing Machine”.

    System Seminar speakers?

    Too good an opportunity to resist – get ’em on to talk about their experience and if they are not monetising their exposure in the future,
    “show them how – what a great case study…”

    Seminar us your ideas now!

    Nice one Ken 😉

  35. Faye January 29, 2008 at 10:15 pm #

    Hilarious! But I’ll bet you a million bucks that there are some folks in their later years for whom Gabe & Max’s “program” would be just about the right speed! AND they’d be happy to pay the $70 to learn how to finally use email!

    Love that antique laptop!

  36. Darrick Addington January 29, 2008 at 10:40 pm #

    This video is a great example of internet scams, con-artists, and middlemen. For anyone who does business of the internet, you have to find legitimate businesses and people to do business with. These guys are so unorganized and unprofessional. Ken, NO WAY would I let these two guys speak at the Seminar.

  37. Steve Hards January 29, 2008 at 11:33 pm #

    Ken delivers the goods again! Cheers, Ken!

  38. Jim January 30, 2008 at 12:07 am #

    Well I was on the fence – but if these pro’s aren’t going to be there – neither will I.

    Sorry Ken – I’ve faxed my order to Gabe & Max

  39. Gabe & Max January 30, 2008 at 12:12 am #

    Ken,

    Gabe here. Though the initial feedback from your list doesn’t sound too promising, if you have a change of heart and let us speak at the System Seminar, I promise I’ll allow each of your attendees a ride in our Lamborghini too.

    (unfortunately Max smashed our first one into a tree, but sales have been phenomenal this week and we’ll be buying a second one later in the month)

  40. Ron January 30, 2008 at 12:42 am #

    Thanks Ken,

    We all need a good laugh from time to time,but these CLOWNS take the cake.

    I know their strategy,but they need to
    be a liiiitle more serious about their
    Business for long term success.

    They would dis-service the highly acclaimed SYSTEM SEMINAR if they were allowed to speak….at all.

    Ron

  41. Riley West January 30, 2008 at 4:08 am #

    Hi Ken:

    Yes… that’s funny. I find it even funnier that some thought it was serious.

    Thank you,

    Riley West – Eugene, Oregon

    PS: I have a request. I like this simple website design.
    I tried to use it 4 months ago and I couldn’t get the white center section to stay centered regardless of the browser window dimensions.

    Could you email me the source? I’ll fill in the center section just fine. thnx rw

  42. Glenn H. Kipps January 30, 2008 at 7:14 am #

    Hello Ken,

    That video was hilarious. However, if they really believe in themselves, they should not have to bribe you in order for them to speak at the seminar.

    Thank you for the laugh. I needed it.

    Glenn H. Kipps

  43. Drew January 30, 2008 at 4:36 pm #

    Well, couldn’t we all use a comedy lesson before we video ourselves to the world?

  44. Mike January 31, 2008 at 1:38 am #

    These guys would be the perfect opening speakers at the System. A perfect example of what not to do.

  45. kimn January 31, 2008 at 1:49 am #

    Of course the Gabe and Max video was comedy. Where did they find that ancient laptop? But, I agree with an earlier comment, you will probably use this as a lesson.

  46. Gabe and Max February 1, 2008 at 8:02 pm #

    We are for real, and if you want to learn REAL mass control, and get all your big internet friends to promote your stuff so you can bring in the bucks and all that…order now.

    We will even give cool fast mover bonus how to buy and sell houses in 24 hours on the internet – only for the first 3 email addresses we receive via fax, hurry before the countdown timer runs out.

  47. john Petrocelli February 7, 2008 at 3:43 pm #

    This has got to be one of the funniest videos I’ve seen on youtube. Good primer on how some of the ‘other’ marketing gurus basically are selling you air and a pipe dream ….

  48. Robin Murray March 20, 2008 at 3:03 pm #

    I loved watching this funny video when you sent it to us a couple of months ago and still laugh every time.

    I came across another hilarious internet marketing spoof video a few minutes ago and thought everyone would get a laugh out of it, too.

    Check out Pablo Flatbroko’s video on Revver at:

    http://revver.com/video/269318/making-money-slowly/

    Cheers,
    Robin

  49. omegaswitch June 27, 2008 at 2:05 pm #

    Hi Ken,

    From what I read, you have a high moral standing and a proud ethical past. Do you think companies who send spam are doing the right thing ethically?

    Regards,

    Omegaswitch