We’ve had hundreds of inspiring side hustle stories on the show this past year, but a few really stood out from the pack. In this week’s roundup episode, I’ll be counting down the 10 best / most interesting / most inspiring side hustles of 2023. To make it super easy to revisit any episode, I …

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I get lots of Facebook messages and emails from people who are looking for work from home jobs that don't come with strict, set schedules. This is probably the second most common request I get next to people looking for non-phone work from home jobs. In the last twelve years, I've actually written about a …

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Here are some legit ways to get paid to do nothing (or very little!). Some have earned me $10,000+ and you can start today…

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Avoiding scams is crucial in today’s digital age where fraudulent activities lurk around every corner, waiting to prey on unsuspecting victims. Protecting yourself requires vigilance, skepticism, and a proactive approach to safeguarding your personal and financial information.

Here are some essential tips to help you steer clear of scams:

1. Verify the legitimacy of offers and requests Before engaging with any offer or request, take the time to research and verify its legitimacy. Scammers often use enticing deals, urgent requests, or too-good-to-be-true opportunities to lure victims. Be wary of unsolicited emails, phone calls, or messages asking for personal or financial information. Always verify the identity of the sender or caller before sharing any sensitive details.

2. Secure your personal information Protecting your personal information is paramount in avoiding scams. Be cautious about sharing sensitive details such as your social security number, bank account information, or passwords, especially online. Legitimate organizations will never ask for this information through unsolicited emails or messages. Use strong, unique passwords for your online accounts and enable two-factor authentication whenever possible to add an extra layer of security.

3. Stay informed and educated Knowledge is your best defense against scams. Stay informed about the latest scam tactics and techniques used by fraudsters. Keep up-to-date with news articles, consumer alerts, and official announcements from trusted sources such as government agencies and consumer protection organizations. Educate yourself about common scam warning signs and red flags to recognize suspicious activities before falling victim to them.

4. Be cautious when making online transactions Online shopping and financial transactions have become commonplace, but they also present opportunities for scammers to exploit unsuspecting individuals. Only conduct transactions on secure, reputable websites with encrypted payment gateways. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or pop-up ads, as they may lead to phishing websites designed to steal your personal information.

5. Trust your instincts and seek assistance If something feels off or too good to be true, trust your instincts and proceed with caution. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance from friends, family members, or professionals if you’re unsure about the legitimacy of an offer or request. Reporting suspicious activities to relevant authorities can help prevent others from falling victim to the same scams.

Avoiding scams requires a combination of skepticism, caution, and proactive measures to safeguard your personal and financial well-being. By staying informed, securing your personal information, and trusting your instincts, you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim of fraud and protect yourself from the ever-evolving tactics of scammers.

1. Take Inventory: Begin by surveying your home for items in good condition that you no longer need or use. This could include clothes, electronics, books, or collectibles.

2. Online Platforms: Utilize popular online platforms such as eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace to reach a wide audience. Other options are OfferUp and Mercari, both which offer apps to post items for sale nationwide. Take clear photos and write detailed descriptions to attract potential buyers.

3. Specialty Marketplaces: Explore niche marketplaces like Etsy and Ruby Lane for specialty or high-value items such as vintage clothing or antique furniture. These platforms attract buyers interested in unique items.

4. Social Media Selling: Leverage social media platforms like Instagram to showcase and sell pre-loved items, especially fashion and lifestyle products. Utilize features like Instagram Marketplace and Stories to engage with followers.

5. Consignment Shops: Consider selling through consignment shops that specialize in specific niches. This allows you to tap into their customer base and benefit from their marketing efforts.

6. Refurbish and Upcycle: Increase the value of your items by refurbishing or upcycling them before selling. A fresh coat of paint, minor repairs, or repackaging can make your items more appealing to buyers and allow you to command a higher price.

7. Garage or Yard Sales: Host a garage sale to sell multiple items at once. Advertise through local newspapers, community bulletin boards, and online groups. Be prepared to negotiate prices with buyers.

By following these strategies, you can effectively turn your clutter into cash and embark on a rewarding journey towards financial gain while decluttering your space! It’s double the benefit!

In the digital age, where visuals play a huge role in communication, photography has evolved beyond being just a hobby to becoming a great way to make money. Websites like PhotoJobz have emerged, offering photographers a platform to monetize their skills and passion. If you have a knack for capturing compelling moments, here’s a guide on how to turn your photographic prowess into a source of income.

1. Diversify Your Portfolio: To increase your chances of earning, diversify your portfolio. Explore different genres of photography such as portraits, landscapes, events, and product photography. This not only showcases your versatility but also opens up opportunities on platforms like PhotoJobz, where clients often seek a variety of visual content.

2. Create a Stunning Profile: Your profile online is your virtual storefront. Ensure it reflects your skills and personality. Display a selection of your best work, write a compelling bio, and highlight your expertise. A professional-looking profile increases your credibility and attracts potential clients.

3. Regularly Update Your Portfolio: Keep your portfolio dynamic by regularly updating it with your latest and best work. This demonstrates your commitment to your craft and keeps your profile fresh in the eyes of clients browsing through the platform.

4. Participate in Photo Contests: Many photography websites host contests that can significantly boost your visibility. Winning or even participating in these contests not only provides a cash prize but also attracts potential clients who recognize your talent.

5. Stay Informed about Market Trends: Photography trends evolve, and staying informed is essential. Keep an eye on what’s popular, experiment with new techniques, and adapt to market demands. Photography platforms often feature clients looking for contemporary styles and innovative approaches.

Making money from your photos on platforms like PhotoJobz requires a strategic approach. By diversifying your portfolio, creating an impressive profile, staying active, participating in contests, networking, and staying updated on market trends, you can turn your passion for photography into a sustainable source of income. With dedication and the right approach, the digital world becomes a canvas where your skills can shine and your photographs can bring both artistic fulfillment and financial rewards.

Inflation is a silent thief that can rob you of your hard-earned money. Over time, inflation erodes the buying power of cash in your pocket. That’s why it’s important to keep an eye on inflation rates and adjust your lifestyle accordingly — however you do that depends on what sort of income sources you have currently!

How can you offset inflation?

While you can always cut your budget, there is a limit to how much trimming one can do.
On the other hand, earning more money has no limit! There are many ways to do this, including side gigs and freelance work. You can also take advantage of the fact that with the internet, you don’t need to be physically in the same location as your employer or clients. That means you can work from home, at Starbucks, or even on an airplane if it suits you.

You can try some of these ideas to offset inflation:

1. Look for other passive income streams
We’ve all heard the term “passive income,” but what does that mean? Essentially, passive income is any money you earn without having to invest time and effort into a job. The most common way to create passive income is through investments like stocks and bonds, but there are other ways to make money without actually selling your time.

For example, if you have an online blog or YouTube channel with thousands of subscribers and views, those viewers could be charged for access to certain content on your site. Or maybe you have an informational book about how to fix cars or build furniture—you could sell copies of the book through Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing platform (which makes it easy for anyone who knows how). Another option: If you own property in a desirable area or neighborhood, consider renting out some rooms on Airbnb as part of a vacation home sharing business—that way people can avoid hotels while traveling!

2. Earn extra money online
Inflation is a scary thing, especially for people with limited means. The good news is that there are many ways to offset the negative effects of inflation. One of them is by earning extra money online. This can be done by taking on an online job or freelancing gig, which offer much-needed flexibility and can be done from home. Online jobs are not only growing in popularity but also in demand as people look for an alternative source of income during these economically uncertain times. With so many options available on the internet, finding work has never been easier!

3. Negotiate for a raise at work
If inflation has left you feeling like your salary is worth less today than it was last year, there’s one way to make sure your money is going further: negotiate for a higher salary.

The first step in this process is knowing your worth. If it feels daunting to calculate exactly how much you should be paid, start by looking at what others in similar positions are earning and use that as a benchmark. Then, make sure to research the market before negotiating—you don’t want to end up asking for too little or too much money because of a lack of preparation! Once you have an idea of what kind of salary might be fair, ask for more (but only if it feels right). Remember that asking doesn’t mean getting every time – keep trying until someone gives in!

4. Negotiate your debt down to lower interest rates or swap from variable to fixed interest rates where possible

If you’re in the market for a loan, consider the following tips:

Negotiate with creditors. If you have credit card debt and you can’t pay off your balance completely, consider contacting the company that issued your card to see if they will help lower or eliminate interest rates on your existing debt (or even on new purchases). This is often possible if you’ve been making on-time payments for several months. Sometimes companies will even offer to reduce interest rates without asking for anything in return from customers who have made good use of their credit cards and demonstrated good financial responsibility overall.

Consider debt consolidation. Instead of taking out another loan or using other forms of leverage, look into consolidating all of your debts into one monthly payment via a personal loan or home equity line of credit (HELOC). This way, all interest rates are fixed at one rate rather than having multiple loans coming due at different times during every month, which can make budgeting difficult if there’s not enough money left over after paying rent/mortgage each month (and also means having more control over how much money goes toward paying down each type.

The wages you earn today may be worth less tomorrow, but there are lots of options for ensuring that your money is working as hard as possible for you!

It’s never too late to get a financial plan in place. With that in mind, here are some tips on how you can ensure your money is working as hard for you as possible: There are lots of ways to make your money work for you. By keeping an eye on inflation, you can protect yourself from its effects so that you can continue doing what you love — and living the life that you want!

In the fast-paced world of personal finance, staying on top of your budget can be a challenging task. However, by incorporating these three key strategies, you can take significant strides towards financial stability and success.

1. Automate Savings: One of the most effective ways to ensure consistent savings is by automating the process. Set up automatic transfers from your checking to your savings account on each payday. This not only simplifies the savings process but also makes it a non-negotiable part of your financial routine. By paying yourself first, you prioritize saving over discretionary spending, helping you build an emergency fund and work towards your financial goals without relying on willpower alone.

2. Use Budgeting Apps: In the digital age, technology offers a plethora of tools to assist with budgeting, and budgeting apps are a game-changer. These apps provide a holistic view of your financial landscape, categorizing your expenses, tracking your income, and even offering insights into your spending habits. Popular apps like Mint, YNAB (You Need A Budget), and PocketGuard sync with your accounts, making it easy to monitor your financial health in real-time. Many of these apps also allow you to set financial goals, providing a visual representation of your progress and motivating you to stay on track.

3. Negotiate Bills: Regularly reviewing and negotiating your recurring bills is a proactive way to save money. Take the time to assess your utility bills, insurance premiums, and any other regular expenses. Research competitor rates and contact your service providers to discuss potential discounts or better deals. Many companies are willing to negotiate, especially if you’ve been a loyal customer. This practice not only helps you cut unnecessary costs but also ensures that you’re getting the best value for the services you use.

By combining these three strategies, you create a powerful financial management system.
Automating savings instills discipline, budgeting apps provide transparency and accountability, while negotiating bills empowers you to take control of your expenses. As you integrate these practices into your financial routine, you’ll find that mastering your finances becomes not only achievable but sustainable in the long run.

Lastly, remember to review and adjust your budgets and finances on a regular basis. Remember, the key to financial success lies in the consistent application of these strategies and a willingness to adapt as your financial circumstances evolve.

Tired of your day job? Wish you could make money from home? Well, you’re in luck! Thanks to the ever-growing gig economy, there are more opportunities than ever to make extra cash – and you can do it all from the comfort of your own home. In this ultimate guide, we’ll show you how to make easy money with some of the best remote side hustles out there. If you want to make money from home, there’s no shortage of options. You can sell your stuff on eBay or Craigslist, help other people with odd jobs on TaskRabbit, take surveys online, and more. I’ve done all these things and more over the years as a way to earn extra cash while working full-time—and it’s not hard. But I’ll be honest: not every side hustle is right for everyone. (In fact, some of them might even be illegal.) So if you’re looking for a legitimate way to make an extra $500 or $1,000 per month while staying in your pajamas most days… keep reading!

1. Start a blog: One of the easiest ways to make money online is to start a blog. You can blog about anything you’re passionate about – from fashion to finance – and all you need is a laptop and an internet connection. In fact, you can start a blog for free using WordPress and monetize it with ads. Once you’ve set up your blog, sign up for Google Adsense or another advertising platform and start earning money every time someone clicks on an ad. But there are other opportunities available as well. You can also sell your own products or do affiliate marketing.

2. Take paid surveys: Did you know that you can get paid just for sharing your opinion? Surveys are an easy way for people who don’t have much time in their schedules to make money from home. There are tons of companies out there that are willing to pay for your insights, and all you need is a phone or computer and a few minutes to spare. Just sign up for a free account with a survey company like iSurvey.io, and start earning cash for every survey you take.

3. Sell products on Etsy: Love crafting? Why not turn your passion into a profit by selling your wares on Etsy? All you need is an Etsy account and a few hours to set up your shop. Once it’s up and running, sit back and watch the sales roll in! Reach out to friends and family to get the ball rolling!

4. Do odd jobs on TaskRabbit: If you’re not afraid of getting your hands dirty, TaskRabbit is a great way to make money online. It’s an online marketplace that connects people who need help with odd jobs and those who want to earn some money by doing them. Whether it’s assembling furniture or walking dogs, people are always looking for someone to help them out – and they’re willing to pay good money for it. Just create a free account and start browsing through the available tasks in your area.

5. Review and test products: Another way to make money from home is by reviewing and testing products. This can be an easy side hustle that can be done on your own schedule. It’s also a great way to get paid to try out new things! But how do you get started? The first step is finding the right site to join. You want one that has a lot of traffic, so you can get your review published quickly, and so it’s easy for readers to find you. Try Samplesource to get started!

There are endless opportunities to make money online – whether you’re looking for a full-time income or just some pocket money on the side. If you’re looking for a way to make some extra money, these are some of the best side-hustle ideas. They’re fun and easy to start, but they also pay well! Best of all, they can be done from anywhere with an internet connection so no need for expensive equipment or even office space. So what are you waiting for? Start putting these tips into action and watch the cash start rolling in!

The gig economy has revolutionized the way people earn money on the side, offering flexible opportunities to boost income. Among the numerous options available, rideshare platforms like Uber and Lyft have emerged as popular choices for those seeking a lucrative side hustle. In this blog post, we’ll explore the ins and outs of driving for dollars—how you can maximize your earnings, navigate peak hours, and provide exceptional service to passengers.

1. Getting Started with Rideshare Platforms: Before hitting the road, it’s crucial to sign up as a driver on platforms like Uber and Lyft. Start by visiting their respective websites or downloading their apps from your smartphone’s app store. Once downloaded, follow the prompts to create your driver account. You’ll need to submit various documents, including your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance information. Keep in mind that a background check is usually part of the process, so ensure your driving record is clean.

2. Understanding Peak Hours and Surge Pricing: Peak hours are times of high demand when you’re more likely to get ride requests. These typically coincide with rush hours, weekends, and special events. During peak hours, platforms often implement surge pricing, which increases the fare due to the increased demand. To take advantage of this, familiarize yourself with your city’s busiest times and areas. Most platforms provide maps or notifications showing where surge pricing is in effect.

3. Navigating High-Traffic Areas: To increase your chances of getting more rides, position yourself in high-traffic areas. Airports, train stations, downtown business districts, and popular entertainment venues are often busy and present good opportunities for ride requests. Use your platform’s driver app to monitor areas with high demand, and consider using navigation apps to avoid heavy traffic and road closures.

4. Providing Excellent Customer Service: Customer service is a big part of rideshare success. Ensure your car is clean and well-maintained, creating a pleasant environment for passengers. Consider offering amenities like water bottles, mints, and phone chargers to enhance the experience. Engage in friendly conversations, but be mindful of your passengers’ preferences for silence. A high rating can lead to more ride requests and better earnings.

5. Safety First: Protecting Yourself and Passengers: Safety is a top priority. Before each shift, perform a quick inspection of your vehicle—check lights, brakes, and tire pressure. Always obey traffic laws, and encourage passengers to buckle up. In case of an emergency, know the location of the nearest hospitals and police stations. If a passenger seems unruly, follow your platform’s guidelines for reporting the issue and ending the ride if necessary.

6. Managing Expenses and Tracking Earnings: Driving for rideshare platforms has costs, including fuel, maintenance, and vehicle depreciation. Keep track of these expenses for tax purposes. Consider using expense-tracking apps or spreadsheets to monitor your spending. While you can’t control gas prices, you can optimize your fuel efficiency by driving smoothly and avoiding sudden accelerations and stops.

7. Setting Earnings Goals and Staying Motivated: Set achievable earnings goals to stay motivated and focused. These goals can be daily, weekly, or monthly, depending on your availability. Use your platform’s driver app to track your progress toward these goals. Celebrate your milestones, and don’t forget that a positive attitude can lead to better interactions with passengers and a more satisfying gig economy experience.

Driving for rideshare platforms like Uber and Lyft can be a rewarding side hustle for those willing to put in the effort. By understanding peak hours, providing excellent service, prioritizing safety, and managing expenses effectively, drivers can maximize their earnings and create a more fulfilling gig economy experience. However, it’s important to note that without careful planning and time management, the flexibility that makes this gig appealing can also lead to spending more time on the road than intended. Striking a balance between your driving hours and personal time is essential to prevent burnout and maintain a healthy work-life harmony. Whether it’s helping passengers reach their destinations or meeting financial goals, driving for dollars offers a unique opportunity to make the most of the gig economy’s flexible earning potential while being mindful of your time investment.