VIP Talent Connect / VIP Ignite review: My experience - buyer beware!

After investing nearly $8,000, plus travel expenses, I can honestly say my experience with VIP Ignite has been extremely disappointing.
Marketing creates the impression of an exclusive organization offering meaningful industry connections, career advancement, and professional tools for aspiring actors. Unfortunately, that has not been my experience.
The $300 resume service was essentially a marketing flyer for VIP Ignite and Truth Management. I was told I needed a portfolio book, even though I had no photos yet to add to it, at the cost of $200. It was never needed for the event. The photo shoot was equally disappointing. Although the photographers were professional, the large group setting felt more like a cattle call than a professional shoot. There was little direction, minimal help with wardrobe, inadequate hair and makeup services, and no collaboration or editing. The photos were delivered through Google Drive and Pixieset and even having them reviewed required an additional subscription. I was told I would be getting headshots and a reel in my event ticket price. I ended up with awful photos that I was told to have Chat GPT edit and one recorded monologue. When I asked about not getting what I paid for, I was told the real value were the people in the room. Really? That was not what I told or paid for.
The constant upselling was another major disappointment. It seemed the initial investment was only the beginning, with a steady stream of additional services, packages, and opportunities requiring more money. When I questioned management about not receiving the services and value I had expected from my original investment, the response was a hard sell to upgrade to the $30,000 Inner Circle membership. Rather than addressing my concerns, the focus seemed to shift toward getting me to spend even more. In my opinion, far too much emphasis is placed on selling rather than delivering the value promised.
I also question the exclusivity being promoted. It does not feel like a selective organization choosing talent based on potential, but rather one open to anyone willing to pay.
To be fair, I have found some classes and instructors worthwhile, but they come at an additional $297 per month and do not justify the overall investment or make up for the disappointing experiences elsewhere.
I wouldn't necessarily call VIP Ignite a scam, but I believe its business model places considerable emphasis on monetizing the hopes and aspirations of people trying to break into the entertainment industry.
After everything I've spent, I simply haven't received comparable value. I've decided to walk away and discontinue my membership, even though I've already paid for another event. My request for a refund for that event was refused.