So here are my thoughts on the app:
I've only known about Anna Bey for 3 weeks (introduced by a friend). I didn't care too much for most of her videos since it was stuff I already knew. When she started promoting the A-List app, I initially had no intentions of subscribing. However, unlike her other platforms that are focused on education via courses (which I didn't need at all), this was focused on networking amongst women which I love. My friend recommended I give it a try, so I signed up reluctantly. I didn't like the ID verification but I did in some way understand it for authenticity (even if she is using it for something else) of you being a woman as I've used the platform the app is hosted on (Mighty Networks) for another group and we were told that men could be lurking since there wasn't a concrete verification process.
I've attended many of the events, read the posts, and observed what was happening in the background. I do personally believe that the app has a lot to offer because of the WOMEN who are on it (and not necessarily Anna herself). The inspirational stories I've heard, connections I've made, conversations I've had, and information I've learned has personally already allowed me to get my return on investment ($297/year). If the app was allowed to just exist with the women on it, it would be perfect.
HOWEVER, the problem lies in what I believe to be unnecessary/overreactive censoring along with unfair banning. I understand wanting to create a platform that is devoid of trolls, politically sensitive content, etc. You want to keep it a safe and neutral space which I agree with. The problem is when you take that to the extreme. We're not allowed to host events about educational content, but isn't the whole point of networking to learn from one another? We've still been able to have wonderful social and informative events, but so many of the ladies are nervous and unsure about what is allowed and what isn't even after reading the rules. After all, there are a lot of them! Many are scared to make an honest mistake over confusion and be banned, and that is a valid fear. I think the admin should focus more on the intent. They have removed a lady on there who was saying truly awful and racist things which is wonderful, but I think they need to relax.
As for unfair banning, there was a very popular 19 year old lady on the app. Every session she was hosting was incredibly helpful and beneficial to all of the ladies. I've seen her mentioned in this forum. I was confused as to why she was removed after hosting a wonderful event (among others) that was so popular and helpful. I was told by another member that the reason she was removed was that ladies at the event started asking her questions and she provided answers along with multiple affiliate links in the chat. This is against the rules. The admin received complaints from other women that she was doing so, so they removed her from the app. It was NOT because of the valuable info she was providing as she had done that at numerous prior events just like the other ladies. Many of the ladies came to her defense and said that she didn't have malicious/predatory intent and was genuinely trying to help and forget about the rule and I 100% agree. (Just as an example, I've even had to privately message a member during an event who included an affiliate link in the chat as they were trying to help and tell her she can get banned for that as it's against the rules. She had NO idea and was freaking out, but was fine in the end). We all thought a warning would have been better as it was an honest mistake. The admin didn't listen to those who reached out and basically said no. They didn't give her the respect that she deserved either in their responses. She was one of the kindest and most helpful ladies I saw on that platform, and many are sad to see her gone.
Anna has created a space that has attracted and is filled with real, wonderful, passionate, supportive, educated, and resourceful women of all ages and backgrounds. THAT is what makes this app special and that is why I joined. I just wish the admin would allow that aspect to shine to its full capacity. If someone were to ask me if I recommend this app, I would say yes BUT I would make sure they understand the downsides to the app as well. I'm curious to see if it gets worse or better in the future.