When we first started exploring how to start a digital business, we were just like most people—looking for a better way. We wanted more time freedom, more flexibility in how we worked, and the ability to create an income that wasn’t tied to a 9-to-5. But more than anything, we wanted to build something meaningful that could actually change our lives—and help others do the same.
That’s when we found MLM.
A lot of people hear “MLM” and immediately think of outdated tactics or get-rich-quick schemes. That’s not what this is. We’ve built a Darren and Mike digital business from the ground up using modern tools, proven strategies, and a rock-solid product. We didn’t get lucky—we got intentional.
In this blog, we’re going to walk you through how to start a digital business the smart way, especially if you’re considering network marketing as your path. We’ll also clear up the confusion between MLM and affiliate marketing and help you choose the model that fits your goals best. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in.
What Is Digital Business? (And Why It’s a Game Changer)
If you’re wondering how to start a digital business, the first step is understanding what it actually is. A digital business is any business that runs primarily online—whether you’re selling physical products, offering services, or building a team like we do in MLM. The key is that your systems, marketing, and customer interactions are all happening on the internet.
And that’s what makes it so powerful.
Unlike traditional business models that require a storefront, tons of overhead, and long hours, a digital business lets you build on your terms. You can work from anywhere. You can automate parts of your business. You can scale globally with tools that do the heavy lifting for you.
In our case, we chose to build a digital business through MLM because it gave us the best of both worlds: the ability to earn recurring income and the opportunity to mentor others who wanted to do the same. We created the Darren and Mike digital business with systems that are duplicatable, accessible, and proven to work—even for complete beginners.
If you’re someone who’s looking for more control over your time, income, and lifestyle, starting a digital business might be the best decision you ever make.
Why MLM Works in the Digital World
When people ask us how to start a digital business, we always tell them—don’t overlook MLM. In fact, MLM was the foundation of how we built the Darren and Mike digital business, and it continues to be one of the most powerful business models when done the right way.
Here’s the thing: a lot has changed since the early days of network marketing. Gone are the days of knocking on doors, chasing friends and family, or cold-calling strangers. The digital world has completely transformed MLM. With the right online systems in place, you can now grow a global business from your laptop, even if you’re just getting started.
Social media, automated sales funnels, email marketing, and video content allow you to reach the right audience at the right time—with the right message. You don’t need to be tech-savvy to make it work, either. We’ve built duplicatable systems that anyone can plug into, regardless of background or experience.
And let’s not forget the community. One of the biggest reasons MLM works so well in a digital format is the built-in support. You’re not building alone. Our Dream Team is a group of like-minded go-getters who lift each other up and grow together. That’s not something you find in most solo business ventures.
If you’re serious about building a digital business that offers both income and impact, MLM—when backed by the right mentorship and tools—can give you everything you need to succeed.
MLM vs. Affiliate Marketing: What’s the Difference?
One of the most common questions we get is, “Isn’t MLM just another affiliate marketing side hustle?” And we get it—the two models do look similar on the surface. They both involve promoting products online and earning commissions. But the truth is, there are some key differences that can make or break your long-term success, depending on your goals.
Affiliate marketing is great if you’re looking for a way to earn commissions by recommending a product or service. You share a link, and if someone buys through it, you get paid. Simple, right? But here’s the catch—affiliate commissions are typically one-time payouts. Once the sale is done, so is your income from that customer. There’s no long-term residual income, and you don’t build a team or community around what you’re doing.
MLM, on the other hand, offers something we value deeply: leverage. Not only do you earn from your own product sales, but you can also build a team and earn a percentage of their success. That’s how we built the Darren and Mike digital business—by creating a structure where our success grows as we help others succeed, too.
If you’re learning how to start a digital business and want something that scales with your time and effort, MLM offers a different kind of opportunity. It’s not just about sales; it’s about leadership, mentorship, and community. And that’s a huge reason we’ve stuck with it.
Affiliate marketing is a great side hustle for many people. But if you’re looking to build something long-term with recurring income and real relationships, MLM may be the better fit.
Step-by-Step Guide to Starting Your Digital MLM Business
If you’re serious about learning how to start a digital business and you’re drawn to the MLM model, it’s important to start with a solid foundation. A lot of people try to wing it, but the truth is success comes from having the right steps, systems, and support in place. Here’s how we did it—and how you can, too.
Step 1: Choose a Product and Company You Believe In
Before you do anything else, you need to align yourself with a company that has a high-quality product, strong leadership, and a compensation plan that rewards effort and growth. We made sure the product we promoted delivered real results—we use it ourselves and stand behind it 100%.
Step 2: Understand the Business Model
One mistake people make when jumping into MLM is not fully understanding how they get paid. Take time to study the comp plan, learn how volume works, and get familiar with the different ways you can earn. This knowledge will shape your strategy and help you focus your efforts in the right places.
Step 3: Build Your Digital Foundation
This is where your business becomes truly scalable. You’ll want a simple website, email list, and a funnel that introduces your offer and collects leads—even while you sleep. You don’t have to be a tech expert. In our Darren and Mike online business, we provide our team with ready-to-use templates and automation tools to make the process simple.
Step 4: Create Your Online Brand
Your brand is how people connect with you. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being real. Start showing up on social media, sharing your story, and educating people about the value you bring. Focus on authenticity over perfection. People buy from people they trust.
Step 5: Plug Into a Supportive Community
One of the biggest reasons we’ve seen people thrive in our business is because they didn’t have to do it alone. Our Dream Team is built around mentorship, mindset, and systems. Think of us as your digital marketing business coach, here to guide you through the process step by step. We teach what we’ve learned through years of building online—and we’re committed to helping others rise with us.
Step 6: Be Consistent and Coachable
You won’t build a successful digital business overnight, but if you show up, stay coachable, and follow a proven plan, your results will come. Consistency beats intensity. Show up every day with purpose and trust the process.
Starting your digital MLM business might seem like a big step—but it’s also one of the most empowering decisions you can make.
Common Misconceptions About MLM (and the Truth We’ve Learned)
We’ve heard it all—“Isn’t MLM a scam?” “Don’t only the people at the top make money?” If you’ve ever had these thoughts, you’re not alone. When we first looked into how to start a digital business through MLM, we had some doubts, too. But what we’ve learned over the years has been eye-opening.
The truth is MLM is a legitimate business model when you partner with the right company and treat it like a real business. Just like in any industry, there are companies and individuals who cut corners—and they give the whole space a bad name. But that’s not the whole story.
In our experience, success in MLM doesn’t come from hype or luck. It comes from showing up, adding value, building relationships, and following a duplicatable system. Our Darren and Mike digital business isn’t built on pressure—it’s built on people helping people grow.
The key is to do your research. Look for a product you believe in, leaders with integrity, and a supportive environment that actually helps you succeed. That’s what made the difference for us—and it’s what we offer to every person who joins our Dream Team.
The Best Time to Start Is Now
If there’s one thing we’ve learned on this journey, it’s that clarity comes from action—not overthinking. If you’ve been exploring how to start a digital business but haven’t taken that first step yet, this is your sign.
You don’t have to have it all figured out. We didn’t either. What we had was a desire to do more, earn more, and live life on our own terms. We found a path through MLM, built our digital foundation, and surrounded ourselves with people who helped us grow. That’s the power of a connected community.
Our Darren and Mike digital business didn’t happen overnight—it happened because we decided to go all in. And you can, too. Whether you’re ready to join our Dream Team or just want to learn more, we’re here to help you make that first move.
Let’s build something great together.
