Side Hustle Pro

In this episode, I sat down with Janae Young, founder and CEO of Young College Prep, who started her first business at just 15 years old, tutoring classmates out of her school library in Wilmington, North Carolina. By the time she graduated high school, she had a team of eight tutors. By the time she graduated from Stanford, she had hit $300K in annual revenue. And by 2025, she crossed her first million.But Janae's path was anything but linear. COVID wiped out the SAT/ACT prep market practically overnight, and her company went into negative profit. She was a freshman in college, going through a breakup, studying computer science remotely and somehow she held on. What she shares in this episode about staying stubborn in the quiet moments, investing $25K in herself as a 19-year-old college student, and pivoting her business model to serve parents instead of students is the kind of transparency you don't often hear.Janae also opens up about navigating the college admissions landscape in a post-affirmative action era, why she believes the college application process is a metaphor for life, and how she's helping students of color tell their stories powerfully. If you're an entrepreneur in a side hustle chapter or a parent thinking about your kid's future this one is for you.Main TakeawaysInvest in yourself before you feel ready: Janae wired $25K to a mastermind as a 19-year-old college student with almost nothing left in her account and that bet changed everything.Know who actually holds the decision and the wallet: When Janae shifted her focus from students to parents, her revenue took off.Real urgency comes from the problem, not just the deadline: Make your client deeply aware of what inaction is costing them for Janae's audience, that's potentially $100K+ in lost merit scholarships.Selling is just teaching: When you see yourself as an educator first, the "sleazy" feeling disappears and you become a genuine guide.Highlights Include(0:38) Janae started her tutoring business at 15 because she was too young to work at Chick-fil-A(3:26) Hiring and firing her first employee at 16 -- including a tutor who poached a client and cited contract law to get away with it(11:12) How COVID wiped out the SAT/ACT market overnight and sent her business into negative profit(22:43) Screen recording a webinar, then closing 4 out of 5 people at $500 the very next night(27:28) Wiring $25K to a mastermind at 19 -- and the phone call her mom got from the bank(31:21) Why shifting her target from students to parents changed her revenue trajectory(36:27) How she structured her Stanford schedule to be a student Mon-Wed and a CEO Thu-Fri(39:30) Breaking down her two offers: Ivy League Score ($2,500) and Ivy League Acceptance ($12K)(51:00) Her organic and paid marketing mix: podcast, ads, and live and evergreen webinar funnels(1:03:46) Her response to the affirmative action ruling and how she helps students of color own their storyLinks Mentioned in This EpisodeYoung College Prep website: janaetutoring.comStacey Boehman -- 2K for 2K program: staceyboehman.com/2kfor2kDielle Charon -- Six Figure Liberation mastermind (formerly called Sales Queen): diellecharon.comClaire Pelitro (Claire Pels) -- Get Paid Marketing: clairepells.comAmy Porterfield -- amyporterfield.comBrooke Castillo -- The Life Coach School: thelifecoachschool.comWatch & ListenListen to the Side Hustle Pro podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you stream podcasts. Watch full video episodes on the Side Hustle Pro YouTube channel.Social MediaInstagram: @JanaeTutoringFacebook: @JanaeTutoringPodcast: The Get Accepted Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week in the guest chair is Tiffany Aliche, known to millions as the Budgetnista and the author of the New York Times bestseller Get Good With Money. Tiffany is back for a deeply personal conversation about what burnout actually looks like when you’re at the top of your game, and what it finally took for her to listen to herself.She opens up about the physical and emotional signs she ignored for too long, the scary truth she finally admitted to her therapist, and how a solo trip to Sedona shifted everything. She also takes us inside the business pivot happening at Budgetnista, from being the face of everything to stepping back and watching her company grow 74% in a single quarter.We also get into the deeper financial conversation: the difference between financial freedom and financial wholeness, how to release financial shame, and the two questions Tiffany now leans on in even her darkest moments. This one is rich from start to finish.Main TakeawaysBurnout is misalignment, not overworkWhy stepping back from being the face of your brand can grow your businessFinancial wholeness vs. financial freedom: which goal actually serves youHow to release financial shame and start your money journey without going it aloneHighlights Include00:00 - Tiffany’s burnout: blood pressure spikes, Oura Ring stress alerts, and a back that gave out03:00 - The thing she finally said out loud and how it shifted her physical pain08:10 - Why her COO reframed burnout: it’s not hard work, it’s misalignment10:54 - Zone of excellence vs. zone of genius21:17 - Transparent look at Budget Nista’s revenue journey from a $10M peak to today’s upswing23:41 - The B2B contract pivot: Newark schools, United Way, and NYC Dept of Education43:38 - Wealth guilt, giving beyond the overflow, and learning to drink from your own cup48:08 - A three-part framework for starting your financial journey: community, voice, and vision56:50 - Financial wholeness explained: the 10 pillars and why this goal is for everyone01:01:30 - Two questions to ask in your hardest moments: Is this true? Is it the only truth available?01:03:34 - Tiffany previews her upcoming book, The Gifts of Grief, and her 2027 sabbaticalLinks Mentioned in This EpisodeGet Good With Money: getgoodwithmoney.comThe Big Leap by Gay Hendricks (recommended by Tiffany)Watch & ListenWatch this episode on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/side-hustle-pro/id1126021323Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/13qDj08lBR4ymzGhXIKy8tYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sidehustleproSocial MediaTiffany Aliche's Instagram: @thebudgetnistaSide Hustle Pro - @sidehustlepro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week in the guest chair is Leah Collins, financial coach, speaker, and host of Maxxed Out, a powerful series helping people confront their finances and the relationships tied to them. But Leah’s journey didn’t start on TV, it started with a moment of truth: making the most money she ever had… and realizing she had nothing to show for it.In this episode, I sit down with Leah to unpack how she transformed her own financial struggles into a thriving business, paid off $40,000 in debt, and ultimately landed her own show. We talk about the behind-the-scenes reality of building a personal brand, why communication is the foundation of financial success, and how she leveraged every opportunity to create multiple income streams.Leah also opens up about one of the most pivotal moments in her life: calling off her wedding due to financial incompatibility. That experience reshaped her entire mission and led her to focus on money and relationships, helping others navigate the conversations so many of us avoid. This episode is a masterclass in turning pain into purpose and building a life that aligns with your values.Main TakeawaysTurning personal financial struggles into a business can create powerful impact and incomeFinancial compatibility and communication are critical in relationshipsYour personal brand is always working for you, even when you don’t realize itMultiple income streams, including speaking, media, and passive products, create flexibility and freedomHighlights Include00:00 – Why money affects every part of your life02:10 – 20 years in corporate finance but struggling personally04:05 – Wake-up call: high income, no results04:40 – $100 bootcamp → $40K debt paid off05:20 – Calling off her wedding over money misalignment07:06 – Prenups, communication, and financial expectations09:05 – Turning personal pain into a business niche10:53 – Launching her brand → getting discovered for TV12:11 – Building a strategic personal brand that attracts opportunities14:17 – TV journey: rejection, delay, and eventual greenlight16:46 – Scaling after motherhood and shifting business model20:43 – Behind the scenes of Maxed Out and building trust23:03 – Leveraging TV into multiple income streams24:55 – Values-based finances and smarter decision-making26:51 – Balancing a 9–5 while growing a business29:37 – Storytelling as a tool for impact and connection31:27 – Pitching yourself and understanding media monetization34:11 – “You’re always being interviewed” mindset38:13 – Why quality beats quantity in content41:02 – Burnout, boundaries, and protecting your time41:42 – Final advice: build your business without quitting your jobLinks Mentioned in This EpisodeMoney Moves Makeover: https://www.amazon.com/OWN Network: https://www.oprah.com/ownHBO Max: https://www.max.com/Discovery+: https://www.discoveryplus.com/Save the Date: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit Plan (Friday, May 15)Watch this episode on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/side-hustle-pro/id1126021323Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/13qDj08lBR4ymzGhXIKy8tYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sidehustleproAnnouncementsIf you’re ready to build a podcast that becomes your exit plan from your 9-to-5, sign up for my next live class: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit PlanSave your seat here. Social MediaInstagram:@theleahmariecollins  Side Hustle Pro – @sidehustlepro#SideHustlePro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I sat down with Monica Cornitcher, CEO and co-founder of Medase Cocktails, a premium non-alcoholic beverage brand redefining what it means to drink without alcohol. What started as a simple desire for a real cocktail experience without the after-effects turned into a six-figure investment and a fast-growing brand that’s now catching the attention of major retailers.Monica shares how she and her co-founder Inga Dyer went from Zoom conversations during the pandemic to building a fully developed beverage company. Instead of rushing the process, they leaned into research, worked with a food scientist, and built a five-year strategy before launching. Their focus was clear: create authentic, full-flavor cocktails that people actually recognize and crave.In this episode, Monica opens up about the real cost of building a physical product, navigating grief after losing her co-founder, and the strategy behind growing through direct-to-consumer before entering retail. This is a powerful conversation about resilience, intentional growth, and building a brand rooted in purpose and community.Main TakeawaysWhy taking time to validate your idea and build a strategy can save you costly mistakesHow to approach launching a physical product without cutting corners on qualityThe importance of direct-to-consumer growth before entering retailHow resilience, grief, and purpose shaped the future of Medase CocktailsHighlights Include00:00 – Introduction to Medase Cocktails03:00 – Monica’s first business and corporate background06:00 – The idea sparked during COVID and building with intention08:00 – Why they worked with a food scientist instead of DIY10:00 – Creating a 5-year business strategy before launch13:00 – Identifying their target consumer and product positioning21:00 – Funding the business with $100K+ of personal investment26:00 – Attending Expo West and attracting investors29:00 – Navigating grief after losing her co-founder30:00 – Growth on Amazon and direct-to-consumer success33:00 – Why retail is expensive and how to prepare for it45:00 – Lessons from production mistakes and product quality control47:00 – Competing in a growing non-alcoholic beverage market50:00 – Lightning round insights and toolsLinks Mentioned in This EpisodeSave the Date: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit Plan (Friday, May 15)Watch & ListenWatch this episode on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/side-hustle-pro/id1126021323Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/13qDj08lBR4ymzGhXIKy8tYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sidehustleproAnnouncementsIf you’re ready to build a podcast that becomes your exit plan from your 9-to-5, sign up for my next live class: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit PlanSave your seat here. Social MediaInstagram: @medasecocktailsTikTok: @medasecocktailsFacebook: Medase CocktailsSide Hustle Pro – @sidehustleproSideHustlePro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I’m joined again by Monique Shields, and this conversation felt like therapy, coaching, and truth-telling all in one. We went deep into something I’ve personally been navigating: what it actually looks like to move out of survival mode as a high-achieving woman, especially when life has been life-ing.We talked about the invisible weight many of us carry, from parenting to business to unexpected life challenges, and how that impacts the way we show up, make decisions, and even spend money. One of the biggest shifts for me? Realizing I wasn’t telling myself the full story about what I had been carrying and surviving.Monique breaks down how our mindset around scarcity, energy, and outsourcing can keep us stuck, and what it really means to “resource yourself” instead of just pushing through. If you’ve been feeling stuck, foggy, or like you’re doing everything but still not moving forward, this episode will hit home.Main TakeawaysYou’re not behind, you’re likely operating without acknowledging everything you’ve been carryingScarcity mindset after a hard season can quietly shape your decisions and keep you stuckYour energy, not just your time, is one of your most valuable assetsResourcing yourself (mentally, physically, strategically) is essential for growthHighlights Include00:00 – Reconnecting with Monique and what she’s been building02:30 – Why intimate spaces and coaching containers matter04:30 – Starting YouTube and breaking through creative burnout06:00 – The hidden impact of hard seasons on decision-making08:00 – Why you’re not telling yourself the full story10:00 – High-achievers and the trap of self-pressure12:30 – Why “feeling less overwhelmed” isn’t the right goal15:00 – Scarcity mindset after financial or life shocks18:00 – Why cost-first thinking keeps you stuck21:00 – The “delusional belief” successful people hold about their future27:00 – The real value of your time and energy33:30 – What actually changed after hiring support36:00 – Mental fog and why you don’t even realize you’re in it40:00 – Why stability is not the same as hoarding43:00 – What it really means to “resource yourself”46:00 – The importance of having multiple “brains” supporting you50:00 – Why your nervous system needs support in today’s world52:00 – Reframing “I can’t afford it” into a choiceLinks Mentioned in This EpisodeSave the Date: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit Plan (April 17)Watch & ListenWatch this episode on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/side-hustle-pro/id1126021323Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/13qDj08lBR4ymzGhXIKy8tYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sidehustleproAnnouncementsIf you’re ready to build a podcast that becomes your exit plan from your 9-to-5, sign up for my next live class: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit PlanSave your seat here. Social MediaInstagram: @moniquershieldsPodcast: Ambition Without CompromiseSide Hustle Pro – @sidehustlepro#SideHustlePro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode is one of the most personal and vulnerable conversations I’ve ever shared. I’m opening up about my journey as an autism mom, from the early days of pregnancy and motherhood during the pandemic to navigating the realities of developmental delays, diagnoses, and advocacy. What started as subtle concerns about speech delays turned into a life-changing journey through early intervention, therapy, and eventually receiving an official autism diagnosis for my son. Along the way, I’ve had to learn how to advocate fiercely, navigate complex systems, and redefine what motherhood looks like for me and my family.This episode is about the hard moments, the emotional weight, and the unexpected beauty in this journey. It’s also about community, resilience, and learning to see strength in a path that looks different than what I once imagined.Highlights Include00:00 – Why this episode is deeply personal02:00 – Pregnancy, birth, and early milestones during the pandemic04:30 – First signs of speech delay and comparing developmental milestones06:30 – The emotional impact of early evaluations07:30 – Starting early intervention: speech and occupational therapy09:00 – Transition to specialized preschool and navigating the system11:00 – The hidden challenges of parenting a child with special needs12:30 – Communication barriers and emotional regulation as a parent14:00 – The moment I realized how much I’ve been carrying16:40 – Understanding gestalt language processing19:30 – Getting an official autism diagnosis21:00 – Advocating for my son within the school system23:30 – A “guardian angel” moment that changed everything27:00 – The role of faith in navigating this journey29:00 – Finding community and learning from other moms30:30 – Lessons autism has taught me about boundaries and perspective31:00 – A real-life parenting moment at the barbershop33:00 – Choosing celebration during Autism Awareness MonthLinks Mentioned in This Episode• Save the Date: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit Plan (Friday, April 17)Watch & ListenWatch this episode on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/side-hustle-pro/id1126021323Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/13qDj08lBR4ymzGhXIKy8tYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sidehustleproAnnouncementsIf you’re ready to build a podcast that becomes your exit plan from your 9-to-5, sign up for my next live class: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit PlanSave your seat here. Social MediaSide Hustle Pro – @sidehustlepro#SideHustlePro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’re a side hustler or solopreneur, taxes can go from simple to overwhelming real fast and the truth is, many entrepreneurs are quietly losing thousands of dollars just by not knowing what they don’t know. In this episode, I sat down with CPA and TurboTax Expert Lisa Greene-Lewis to break down the most common tax mistakes side hustlers make, from choosing the wrong business structure too early to missing out on key deductions and failing to stay organized throughout the year. We also unpack what actually makes taxes more complex as your business grows and how to stay ahead of it before tax season hits.This conversation is all about helping you feel more confident, more prepared, and more in control of your finances. Because the goal is not just to make money in your business but to keep more of it.Main TakeawaysLack of consistent tracking is the biggest mistake that leads to overpaying taxesMany solopreneurs miss deductions simply because they are unaware of what qualifiesStaying organized year-round is the key to reducing stress and maximizing savingsHighlights Include00:00 – Introduction to tax season for solopreneurs02:00 – Lisa’s journey into tax expertise and entrepreneurship05:20 – LLC vs S corp: what you actually need to know08:20 – When taxes start to feel complicated09:30 – Why tracking income and expenses is critical11:40 – Common deductions people miss13:00 – Home office deduction explained14:20 – Section 179 and equipment write-offs15:10 – What you can’t deduct (clothes, hair, makeup)16:40 – Business credit card interest deduction17:20 – Employing your kids as a tax strategy18:00 – SEP IRA and retirement savings for entrepreneurs19:00 – Qualified Business Income deduction20:10 – Key tax law updates and 1099-K changes23:20 – How to stay organized with QuickBooks25:40 – How TurboTax experts support business owners27:10 – Lisa’s personal system for staying organized Links Mentioned in This EpisodeTurboTax: https://turbotax.com/business QuickBooks: https://quickbooks.intuit.comWatch & ListenWatch this episode on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/side-hustle-pro/id1126021323Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/13qDj08lBR4ymzGhXIKy8tYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sidehustleproAnnouncementsIf you’re ready to build a podcast that becomes your exit plan from your 9-to-5, sign up for my next live class: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit PlanSave your seat here. Social MediaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-greene-lewis-7721b815a Website: https://turbotax.com/business Side Hustle Pro – @sidehustlepro#SideHustlePro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to finally start that thing you said you’d do this year, this episode is your wake-up call. Because the truth is, that moment isn’t coming.This week, I’m pulling back the curtain on a very real, very messy week in my life and sharing why I decided to hit record anyway. From sick kids to mental clutter to a house that is far from organized, I had every reason to wait. But instead, I leaned into a powerful reminder: progress doesn’t require perfection.In this episode, I walk you through the mindset shifts that have helped me move through overwhelm, take action with limited time and energy, and stop letting the idea of “feeling ready” delay my goals. Because sometimes the real work isn’t the task itself, it’s learning how to show up before everything feels aligned.Main TakeawaysWaiting for the perfect time will keep you stuck longer than just starting messyYou have to work with the time and energy you actually have, not what you wish you hadNaming what’s holding you back helps you move through it fasterThe real growth often comes from managing your mindset, not completing the taskHighlights Include00:00 – Why I recorded this episode despite not feeling ready02:10 – How “unexpected” life moments keep disrupting plans04:18 – Learning to work in chaos instead of waiting for order05:30 – Lowering the bar to get started06:10 – Work with the time you have, not the time you wish you had08:00 – Managing your energy to show up at your best10:15 – Why naming the problem helps you move forward11:43 – Recognizing the season you’re in and adjusting expectations14:00 – Are you truly blocked or just thrown off?16:12 – How accountability helped me launch Side Hustle Pro18:36 – Overcoming imposter syndrome in a career leap21:22 – The hidden cost of needing to “have it all together”23:21 – Why perfection delays your income and growth26:24 – Maybe the real goal is mastering your mindset29:19 – Adjusting expectations so you can move forwardLinks Mentioned in This EpisodeSave the Date: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit Plan (Friday, April 10th)Watch & ListenWatch this episode on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/side-hustle-pro/id1126021323Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/13qDj08lBR4ymzGhXIKy8tYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sidehustleproAnnouncementsIf you’re ready to build a podcast that becomes your exit plan from your 9-to-5, sign up for my next live class: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit PlanSave your seat here. Social MediaSide Hustle Pro – @sidehustlepro#SideHustlePro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of the biggest misconceptions I see when it comes to making money is the belief that you need to start from scratch. A new certification, a brand new idea, or a completely different skill set. But the truth is, most of us already have everything we need. The real problem is not a lack of knowledge, it is not knowing how to package and position what we already know.In this episode, I break down five simple and practical ways to turn your existing skills, experiences, and knowledge into income. Whether you are in between roles, exploring a side hustle, or just trying to make extra money right now, this episode is your reminder that there is value in what you already bring to the table.I also walk through a key mindset shift. You do not need to be the top expert. You just need to be a few steps ahead of the person you are helping. People are not just paying for information. They are paying for clarity, speed, guidance, and confidence. And that is where your opportunity lies.Main TakeawaysYou do not need new skills or certifications to start making moneyThere are five core ways to monetize what you already knowPeople pay for clarity, speed, and guidance, not just expertiseStart with one path and keep it simple instead of trying everythingHighlights Include00:00 – The biggest misconception about making money01:30 – Why you already have valuable, monetizable knowledge02:00 – The 5 ways to make money with what you know03:00 – The mindset shift you need before starting04:00 – Service and coaching as the fastest path to income06:00 – Done-for-you services and why people pay for convenience08:00 – Creating simple digital products that sell10:30 – Workshops and why people pay for real-time learning13:00 – Why reminders are key when selling anything15:00 – Using content to create opportunities and income18:00 – How to use AI without losing your voice21:00 – Why you should pick ONE path and start nowLinks Mentioned in This EpisodeSave the Date: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit Plan (Friday, March 20)Watch & ListenWatch this episode on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/side-hustle-pro/id1126021323Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/13qDj08lBR4ymzGhXIKy8tYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sidehustleproAnnouncementsIf you’re ready to build a podcast that becomes your exit plan from your 9-to-5, sign up for my next live class: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit PlanSave your seat here. Social MediaSide Hustle Pro – @sidehustlepro#SideHustlePro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week in the guest chair is Chanel Tyler, a strategist, creator, and self-described “contentpreneur” who has worked across investment banking, luxury marketing, and YouTube before stepping fully into entrepreneurship.Chanel built her reputation online by sharing trusted product recommendations and insights from her background in beauty marketing. But after years of consulting with a creator commerce platform that generated over 80% of her income, everything changed when the company suddenly shut down.In this episode, Chanel opens up about what it really looks like to rebuild after losing the majority of your income overnight. She shares how she pivoted by diversifying her platforms, leaning deeper into affiliate marketing, launching new creator education programs, and embracing the vulnerability of sharing her personal story — including her journey with hearing loss.If you’ve ever worried about relying on a single income stream or wondered how creators actually make money online, Chanel breaks down the strategy behind building a sustainable creator business.In this episode, Chanel shares:How she built a creator business by combining corporate strategy, content creation, and affiliate marketingWhat happened when the platform responsible for 80% of her income shut down overnight and how she rebuiltWhy diversification across platforms, income streams, and partnerships is essential for creators and entrepreneursHow affiliate marketing works and how creators can use performance data to negotiate higher-paying brand dealsHighlights Include00:00 – Introduction02:10 – Chanel’s career path from investment banking to luxury beauty marketing05:10 – Building an audience through skincare and product recommendations09:00 – Landing a role at YouTube working with top creators15:00 – Saving a year of income before leaving corporate19:00 – The moment she lost 80% of her income overnight24:30 – Why diversification is critical for creators and entrepreneurs27:00 – Building content series that grow an audience32:00 – Affiliate marketing vs. brand partnerships explained37:00 – Sharing her journey with hearing loss and disability40:00 – How statement earrings became part of her empowerment story43:00 – Affiliate income strategies for creatorsLinks Mentioned in This Episode• Substack: Sensible• Julia Broome• Check out the Networth and Chill Podcast;Creator Economy & Brand Deals with Victoria Paris• ShopMy: https://shopmy.us/home/creators• MagicLinks: https://www.magiclinks.com/creators• BrandCycle: https://brandcycle.com/• LTK: https://company.shopltk.com/en/creator• Nordstrom Affiliate Program: https://www.nordstromcreators.com/Check out Chanel’s Creator Profit Lab’s interest form & course registrationSave the Date: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit Plan (Friday, March 20)Watch & ListenWatch this episode on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/side-hustle-pro/id1126021323Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/13qDj08lBR4ymzGhXIKy8tYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sidehustleproAnnouncementsIf you’re ready to build a podcast that becomes your exit plan from your 9-to-5, sign up for my next live class: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit PlanSave your seat here.Social MediaInstagram: @thecreatorprofitlabInstagram: @buymechanelSide Hustle Pro – @sidehustlepro#SideHustlePro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week in the guest chair is sales and business coach Dielle Charon, founder of For the 23%, where she helps women of color build profitable businesses and grow their income through coaching and entrepreneurship.Dielle shares how she went from earning $2,500 a month as a social worker with six-figure student loan debt to building a multi-seven-figure coaching business. Along the way, she explains why traditional jobs often undervalue your skills, how to identify the expertise you can monetize, and why the coaching industry continues to grow despite criticism.In this conversation, we also dive deep into the mindset shifts needed to move from six-figure income to seven-figure business growth, including overcoming people-pleasing, claiming your expertise, and stepping fully into your authority.If you’ve been thinking about turning your knowledge into income, starting a side hustle, or scaling your existing business, this episode will help you see what’s possible.Highlights Include00:00 – Why Dielle realized her corporate career wasn’t the life she wanted05:30 – Testing multiple side hustles before finding the right one08:00 – How to identify skills you can monetize12:00 – Why the coaching industry gets criticism and why it’s still growing16:30 – The truth about selling and why everyone is already selling themselves20:00 – Why your job isn’t amazing — you are23:45 – Breaking the mindset barriers around charging for your expertise25:50 – The biggest blocks women hit going from six figures to seven figures31:00 – Visibility, people-pleasing, and identity shifts in business growth36:00 – Why most successful businesses focus on beginners41:00 – The simple seven-figure business model (and why it’s simpler than you think)47:00 – Improving messaging and positioning for entrepreneursLinks Mentioned in This Episodehttps://forthe23percent.com/Save the Date: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit Plan (Friday, March 13)Watch & ListenWatch this episode on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/side-hustle-pro/id1126021323Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/13qDj08lBR4ymzGhXIKy8tYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sidehustleproAnnouncementsIf you’re ready to build a podcast that becomes your exit plan from your 9-to-5, sign up for my next live class:: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit PlanSave your seat here: Social MediaInstagram: @forthe23percentSide Hustle Pro – @sidehustlepro#SideHustlePro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week in the guest chair, Symone' Austin shares her powerful journey from being laid off to building a thriving YouTube platform.After recording and posting her layoff conversation, her video went viral and became the turning point in her entrepreneurial journey. In this episode, she breaks down how she built multiple income streams through YouTube ad revenue, brand partnerships, digital products, virtual assistant work, and strategic financial decisions like bringing on a roommate.If you’ve been navigating uncertainty, considering content creation, or wondering how to turn a setback into leverage, this episode will show you how.Highlights Include00:00 – Recording the layoff conversation that changed everything04:30 – Growing from 10K to 60K+ subscribers in one year08:20 – Making $5,900 in one month from YouTube ad revenue13:00 – Cutting expenses and surviving without touching savings18:10 – Turning skills into income: photography, digital products, VA work24:00 – Why personal finance has one of the highest CPMs on YouTube29:00 – Replacing a corporate salary through content creation35:00 – The reality of working 7 days a week as a full-time creator38:00 – Getting a roommate as a financial reset strategy43:00 – Navigating job offers after deciding to go all-inLinks Mentioned in This EpisodeLife and Numbers YouTube ChannelRead Successful Failure by KevOnStageWatch Symone's YouTube video "I Got Laid Off From My 6 Figure Tech Job"Save the Date: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit Plan (Friday, March 13)Watch & ListenWatch this episode on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/side-hustle-pro/id1126021323Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/13qDj08lBR4ymzGhXIKy8tYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sidehustleproAnnouncementsIf you’re ready to build a podcast that becomes your exit plan, attend my next live class: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit PlanSave your seat here: https://sidehustlepro.lpages.co/your-first-1000-downloads/Social MediaYouTube: Life and Numbers: https://www.youtube.com/lifeandnumbersInstagram: @lifeandnumbers: http://instagram.com/lifeandnumbersSide Hustle Pro – @sidehustlepro#SideHustlePro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on Side Hustle Pro, I’m sharing how I’m structuring my year through 12-week sprints,  focusing on my health, my money, and elevating my Podcast Moguls program. I open up about navigating motherhood, sleep deprivation, and mindset work while still executing on big goals. Most importantly, I reflect on how my podcast has been the one constant through every season becoming my bridge out of corporate and my foundation for long-term leverage.Highlights Include00:00: Why I use 12-week sprints02:15: Rebuilding my health after six years06:30: Accountability and investing in myself14:00: Emotional spending and financial clarity18:45: Auditing my business finances21:30: Updating Podcast Moguls25:00: Managing mindset during execution28:00: Why my podcast became my bridge out of corporate31:00: Building leverage and long-term positioningLinks Mentioned in This EpisodePodcast Moguls: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit PlanWatch & ListenWatch this episode on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/side-hustle-pro/id1126021323Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/13qDj08lBR4ymzGhXIKy8tYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sidehustleproAnnouncementsIf you’re ready to build a podcast that becomes your exit plan, attend my next live class: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit PlanSave your seat here: Social MediaSide Hustle Pro – @sidehustlepro#SideHustlePro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this solo episode, I’m sharing five real, practical ways to generate income during your in-between season. If you’re asking yourself, “I got laid off… now what? This episode will give you grounded, actionable steps to move forward and even some side hustle ideas!Highlights Include00:00 – If you’ve been laid off, you are not alone02:30 – Why invisibility is the real danger during unemployment04:05 – Using content creation as a visibility tool07:20 – Turning alumni and professional networks into income09:10 – Short-term projects using skills you already have13:10 – Becoming a LifeOps consultant16:50 – Short-term rental support as seasonal leverage19:30 – Creating a premium career support retreat experience21:40 – Why you should always keep side hustling23:30 – How my unemployment season planted the seed for Side Hustle ProLinks Mentioned in This EpisodePodcast Moguls: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit PlanWatch & ListenWatch this episode on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/side-hustle-pro/id1126021323Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/13qDj08lBR4ymzGhXIKy8tYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sidehustleproAnnouncementsIf you’re ready to build a podcast that becomes your exit plan, attend my next live class: Start the Podcast That Builds Your Exit PlanSave your seat here.Social MediaSide Hustle Pro – @sidehustlepro#SideHustlePro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Side Hustle Pro is officially 500 episodes deep, and in this milestone episode, I’m taking time to reflect on what this journey has really taught me.I share the biggest lessons I’ve learned about consistency, networking, monetization, and why the podcast itself was never the end goal, the platform was. I also talk about what I wish I knew when I started, how podcasting helped me grow as a speaker and business owner, and why playing the long game has paid off in ways I never could have planned.If you’re thinking about starting a podcast, growing a side hustle, or building something meaningful over time, this episode is a reminder that you don’t have to rush, you just have to keep going.Highlights Include00:00 – Welcome to the 500th episode of Side Hustle Pro02:10 – Starting with what I had and recording from home04:30 – Why trying to predict the end can stop you from starting06:45 – Why the podcast was never the point, the platform was09:30 – How podcasting transformed my network12:50 – Keeping costs low and thinking like a business owner16:30 – The power of consistency and playing the long game18:45 – How podcasting improved my confidence as a speaker21:00 – Giving myself grace through different seasons of life24:45 – Final lessons I’d tell my earlier selfLinks Mentioned in This EpisodePodcast Moguls Group Coaching Program: https://sidehustlepro.co/podcastmogulsStart the Podcast That Builds Your Exit Plan: https://sidehustlepro.lpages.co/your-first-1000-downloads/Side Hustle Pro Website: https://sidehustlepro.co/Watch & ListenWatch this episode on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/side-hustle-pro/id1126021323Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/13qDj08lBR4ymzGhXIKy8tYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sidehustlepro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You do not need a million dollars to change your life, you need your first $1,000.In this solo episode, I’m breaking down why the first $1K is such a pivotal milestone for side hustlers and how it shifts everything from theory to proof. I walk you through the exact decisions and actions that turn preparation into income without overbuilding, overthinking, or waiting until things feel perfect.If you’ve been stuck planning, tweaking, or doubting yourself, this episode will help you move forward with clarity, confidence, and momentum.In This Episode, I Share:Why the first $1,000 changes everything mentally and strategicallyHow to choose a simple offer you can confidently deliver right nowHow to identify who your offer is really for and why frustration mattersWhy clarity, consistency, and conversations matter more than perfectionHighlights Include:00:00 – Why you don’t need a million dollars to change your life — you need your first $1,00001:35 – How your mindset shifts after you make your first $1K and why proof matters more than theory02:31 – What actually counts as an offer and why your first one should be useful, not fancy03:52 – Why starting with what you’re already confident in is the fastest way to get paid05:16 – How to decide who your offer is really for and why specificity matters07:27 – The difference between a painkiller and a vitamin offer (and why frustration drives sales)08:55 – How to package your offer simply without a website, logo, or brand11:22 – Why offering your service is the most important step people delay12:48 – How confidence and customer focus directly impact whether you make your first $1K14:04 – Why you don’t need a massive audience — just real conversations and feedback15:37 – How to use feedback as information instead of taking it personally17:47 – Why overbuilding and “perfecting” keeps side hustlers stuck19:21 – Breaking down the math behind $1,000 so it feels achievable20:45 – Why fewer clients at a higher price can reduce burnout21:34 – Why most people earn their first $1K from conversations, not content22:19 – How I made my first $1,000 and what actually worked26:03 – When to start building your email list and why simple free resources convert better28:54 – How to use a 12-week sprint to stay focused on your first $1K29:38 – What to do when your first offer feels slow or doesn’t land immediately31:08 – What changes after you hit your first $1,000 — and the mistake to avoid next31:49 – Final action steps to start building your first $1K offerLinks Mentioned in This EpisodeSide Hustle Pro Website: https://sidehustlepro.co/Watch & ListenWatch this episode on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/side-hustle-pro/id1126021323Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/13qDj08lBR4ymzGhXIKy8tYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sidehustlepro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this solo episode, I’m breaking down how to start your side hustle without quitting your job or putting your paycheck at risk. I’m sharing what I’ve learned from building Side Hustle Pro from two very different places: one, when I was unemployed with plenty of time but no stability, and two, when I was working full-time at NPR with stability but limited time.What I’ve learned is this: there is no “perfect” situation for side hustling. What matters is how you build, not whether you quit your job first.I’m walking you through my five rules for side hustling the Side Hustle Pro way, plus a bonus rule to help you decide when you’re actually ready to leave your job on purpose, with a plan, and on your own terms.If you’ve been feeling the pull to build something but don’t want to move out of panic or pressure, this episode will help you build quietly, strategically, and stress-free.In This Episode, I Share:Why keeping your job can actually give you leverage and clarity as you buildThe mindset shift that turns your paycheck into startup capitalHow to choose a side hustle that fits your real life, energy, and capacityHow to decide in advance what “ready to leave” really looks like backed by numbers and a planHighlights Include00:00 Introduction to Side Hustling01:00 The Importance of Stability02:24 Five Rules for Side Hustle Success04:39 Rule 1: Keep Your Day Job06:26 Rule 2: Choose a Suitable Side Hustle08:53 Rule 3: Set Non-Negotiable Time Boundaries12:37 Rule 4: Build Basic First17:11 Rule 5: Protect Your Job While You Build20:48 Bonus Rule: Decide What 'Ready to Leave' Means24:01 Conclusion and Next StepsLinks Mentioned in This EpisodeSide Hustle Pro Website: https://sidehustlepro.co/Goal Getter Action Plan: https://side-hustle-pro.teachable.com/p/goal-getter-action-planWatch & ListenWatch this episode on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/side-hustle-pro/id1126021323Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/13qDj08lBR4ymzGhXIKy8tYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sidehustlepro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Side Hustle Pro, I break down seven side hustles you can start this month that have real income potential. This episode is all about building leverage through problem-solving businesses that can grow from side hustle to full-time income.In This Episode, I Share:Why your side hustle should be treated as leverage and a real business, not a hobby or just extra moneyThe two rules I want you to follow before choosing a side hustle: don’t try everything at once, and focus on solving real problemsSeven proven, service-based side hustle ideas — from home operations and career pivots to podcast booking and fractional COO workHow to move from idea to action by getting your first client through simple, focused next stepsHighlights Include00:00 Why your side hustle should be treated as leverage, not a hobby02:10 The two rules to follow before choosing a side hustle04:30 How to stop collecting ideas and start building a real business06:30 Side Hustle #1: The local “fix-it” project manager (home ops manager)10:15 Side Hustle #2: Career Pivot Studio for job seekers and career switchers14:45 Side Hustle #3: Podcast guest booking agency for founders and experts18:50 Side Hustle #4: Compliance, privacy, and admin cleanup for small businesses22:30 Side Hustle #5: Elder care concierge for busy adult children26:30 Side Hustle #6: Micro-business events producer for pop-ups and workshops30:00 Side Hustle #7: Fractional COO and operations command center builder35:20 How to pick one side hustle and take action this week38:10 Simple next steps to land your first clientLinks Mentioned in This EpisodeSide Hustle Pro Website: https://sidehustlepro.co/Watch & ListenWatch this episode on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/side-hustle-pro/id1126021323Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/13qDj08lBR4ymzGhXIKy8tYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sidehustlepro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this solo episode, I’m sharing the exact 12 week sprint system that completely changed how I set and complete my goals.Instead of giving myself an entire year to “figure it out,” I learned that shrinking the timeline created clarity, urgency, and momentum. I walk you through how I choose my goals, break them down into manageable weekly actions, and build in a recalculation rule that allows for real life instead of an idealized version of it.If you have ever started the year motivated only to feel your goals quietly drift away by February, this episode gives you a simple and realistic framework you can start using right now.In This Episode, I Share:Why yearly goal setting gives side hustlers too much room to procrastinate and how 12 week sprints create clarity and momentumHow I choose just three goals per sprint with one clear focus per monthThe simple way I break monthly goals into realistic weekly tasks that actually get doneWhy daily five minute reviews and one weekly self accountability day keep my goals from driftingThe recalculation rule that helps me keep going when life gets messy without guilt or quittingHighlights Include00:00 Why annual goals do not work for busy side hustlers02:50 How 12 week sprints eliminate procrastination05:55 The rule of only three goals with one focus per month10:20 Why writing my goals down is non negotiable12:40 How I break goals into simple weekly tasks14:45 The recalculation rule that keeps me moving forward17:00 Choosing a weekly self accountability day21:00 Your 12 week sprint challengeLinks Mentioned in This EpisodeGoalgetter Action Plan: https://sidehustlepro.co/goalgetterSide Hustle Pro Website: https://sidehustlepro.co/Watch this episode on YouTube and listen on all podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/side-hustle-pro/id1126021323Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/13qDj08lBR4ymzGhXIKy8tYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/sidehustlepro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we’re changing it up and I’m sitting in the guest chair. In this special “podcast swap” episode of Side Hustle Pro, I’m sharing an interview from the podcast To Tell You The Truth with host and Podcast Moguls student Brittany Sharpton. We dive into the concept of self-imposed barriers and how they can prevent entrepreneurs, especially Black women, from realizing their full potential. In this episode I share:My journey to reclaiming my power in spaces where Black women aren’t usually empowered- and why I’m constantly reminding myself that I’m that girlSteps to take to combat the fear and negative self-talk that often creep inWhat feeds my soul and the lessons I’m learning every day- even as a seasoned entrepreneur Insights from my Podcast Moguls course and how I’ve seen Brittany grow after being a student Highlights Include:00:00 Intro03:30 From corporate to entrepreneur 09:55 The importance of having a side hustle 11:45 Overcoming biases17:30 How to show up as a working mom22:00 Getting your mojo back 27:15 Overcoming the limitations of the patriarchy37:04 Tips to feed your soul41:15 Beating fear and imposter syndromeCheck out episode 495 of Side Hustle Pro podcast out now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTubeLinks mentioned in this episodeBrittany’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/britthappenshq/ To Tell You The Truth Pod: https://www.instagram.com/totellyouthetruthpod/ Nicaila’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sidehustlepro/ How To Make Money Podcasting Course: https://sidehustlepro.lpages.co/your-first-1000-downloads/ Management Leadership For Tomorrow: https://mlt.org/ Mel Robbins Podcast, Let Go of Negative Thoughts: https://www.melrobbins.com/podcasts/episode-198 Jen Sincero’s Book: https://jensincero.com/ Walk Through Fire: https://www.amazon.com/Walk-Through-Fire-Memoir-Triumph-ebook/dp/B0BXM51HXN Get Good With Money: https://getgoodwithmoney.com/ Click here to subscribe via RSS feed (non-iTunes feed): http://sidehustlepro.libsyn.com/rss Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.