Side Hustle School

By Chris Guillebeau

Side Hustle School episodes

May 28, 2025High School Student Earns $20,000 Making Wooden Bow Ties
What It’s About
These bow ties are fashionable and hefty.

Notes from Chris
Episode 3070
In today’s story…
…High school students and young people, here’s a great story for you.
Listen to today’s episode to learn more…

SEE ALSO:
Catholic Designer Creates Stylish Apparel Line: What shall it profit a man to gain the whole world but not sell any t-shirts? This designer cast his bread upon the waters and ended up with a profitable fashion line.
Seattle Couple Creates New “Income LiveStream”: When a married couple runs into logistical problems at their wedding, it leads to an innovative service that other engaged couples need during the pandemic.
Role-Playing Pastor Rolls The Dice On $2800/Month Hustle: Listener success story! This Presbyterian minister turns to his lifelong interest in role-playing games to set up a sustainable second income source.
Inspiration is good; inspiration combined with action is better. Now get back to work!
Yours in the revolution,
<img class="alignnone wp-image-1825" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png" alt="cg-sig-newsletter" width="176" height="82" srcset="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png 300w, https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter.png 450w" sizes="(max-width: 176px) 100vw, 176px">

Resources
GET $625 IN FREE TRAVEL
Earn 50,000 travel rewards points (enough for 2 round-trip plane tickets or $625 in travel credit). You'll also earn 2x points on all travel and dining spend, with zero foreign transaction fees.
I use this card every day all over the world! ✈️
Learn More

CREATE YOUR ONLINE STORE
Create your online store with Shopify using an exclusive discount for Side Hustle School listeners. For a limited time, get a free 21-day trial and a 10% discount for a whole year.
Many Side Hustle School listeners are building sites using Shopify's easy-to-learn platform. Try it free today!

Learn More

Sponsors & Gratitude
Learn More With Skillshare!
Supporting the sponsors keeps the show free. Today’s episode of Side Hustle School is brought to you by Skillshare. 📷
Skillshare is giving Side Hustle School listeners 2 months of unlimited access—for $0.99! Join the 2 million students learning everything from street photography to SEO on Skillshare today!

Get Started Here!

Like the Show? Leave a Rating!
Side Hustle School is for you! If you’re enjoying it, please take a quick moment to leave a rating or write a quick review. It's really easy and it makes a difference! ✅
It also makes a huge difference when you tell your friends about the show. Remember, it's 100% free and listener-supported.

Here's How

Keep in Touch
<img class="aligncenter wp-image-1272 size-full" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/ChrisGuillebeauSideHustleSchoolFull-1.jpg" width="1076" height="251">
There’s a new story every single day on Side Hustle School. Episodes are produced to be short and to the point—I know you’re busy. Be sure you subscribe to get instant notification of the day’s broadcast!

Follow
Facebook,Instagram,Twitter

Email
[email protected]

Say Hi
From your favorite airport

To infinity and beyond,
Chris Guillebeau
6 min
May 27, 2025Q&A: “I’m ready to sell my side hustle—how do I do it?”
What It’s About
This hustle has been great, but it’s time to move to something else.

Notes from Chris
Episode 3069
Turning a side hustle into something valuable is an amazing accomplishment—but what happens when you’re ready to move on?
That’s the position Natalie from Orlando is in. She built a side hustle that grew bigger than expected, and now she’s looking for the best way to sell it.
The challenge? She’s not sure how to find a buyer, determine its worth, or make sure she gets a fair deal. Let’s break down how to successfully sell a side hustle, step by step.
“Hey all, this is Natalie from Orlando. I started my side hustle a few years ago, and it’s grown into something bigger than I ever expected. The thing is, I’m feeling ready to move on. I don’t necessarily want to shut it down—I’d love to sell it to someone who could take it further. But I have no idea how to find a buyer or even figure out what my business is worth. What’s the best way to sell a side hustle, and what should I look out for to make sure I get a fair deal?”
Listen to today’s episode to learn more…

SEE ALSO:
Catholic Designer Creates Stylish Apparel Line: What shall it profit a man to gain the whole world but not sell any t-shirts? This designer cast his bread upon the waters and ended up with a profitable fashion line.
Seattle Couple Creates New “Income LiveStream”: When a married couple runs into logistical problems at their wedding, it leads to an innovative service that other engaged couples need during the pandemic.
Role-Playing Pastor Rolls The Dice On $2800/Month Hustle: Listener success story! This Presbyterian minister turns to his lifelong interest in role-playing games to set up a sustainable second income source.
Inspiration is good; inspiration combined with action is better. Now get back to work!
Yours in the revolution,
<img class="alignnone wp-image-1825" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png" alt="cg-sig-newsletter" width="176" height="82" srcset="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png 300w, https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter.png 450w" sizes="(max-width: 176px) 100vw, 176px">

Resources
GET $625 IN FREE TRAVEL
Earn 50,000 travel rewards points (enough for 2 round-trip plane tickets or $625 in travel credit). You'll also earn 2x points on all travel and dining spend, with zero foreign transaction fees.
I use this card every day all over the world! ✈️
Learn More

CREATE YOUR ONLINE STORE
Create your online store with Shopify using an exclusive discount for Side Hustle School listeners. For a limited time, get a free 21-day trial and a 10% discount for a whole year.
Many Side Hustle School listeners are building sites using Shopify's easy-to-learn platform. Try it free today!

Learn More

Sponsors & Gratitude
Learn More With Skillshare!
Supporting the sponsors keeps the show free. Today’s episode of Side Hustle School is brought to you by Skillshare. 📷
Skillshare is giving Side Hustle School listeners 2 months of unlimited access—for $0.99! Join the 2 million students learning everything from street photography to SEO on Skillshare today!

Get Started Here!

Like the Show? Leave a Rating!
Side Hustle School is for you! If you’re enjoying it, please take a quick moment to leave a rating or write a quick review. It's really easy and it makes a difference! ✅
It also makes a huge difference when you tell your friends about the show. Remember, it's 100% free and listener-supported.

Here's How

Keep in Touch
<img class="aligncenter wp-image-1272 size-full" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/ChrisGuillebeauSideHustleSchoolFull-1.jpg" width="1076" height="251">
There’s a new story every single day on Side Hustle School. Episodes are produced to be short and to the point—I know you’re busy. Be sure you subscribe to get instant notification of the day’s broadcast!

Follow
Facebook,Instagram,Twitter

Email
[email protected]

Say Hi
From your favorite airport

To infinity and beyond,
Chris Guillebeau
7 min
May 25, 2025Weekend Workshop: Frame Your First Dollar
What It’s About
Today’s episode comes from Day 22, which is all about … celebrating your milestones!

Notes from Chris
Episode 3067
It’s Weekend Workshop, and it’s new!
Listen to today’s episode to learn more…

SEE ALSO:
Catholic Designer Creates Stylish Apparel Line: What shall it profit a man to gain the whole world but not sell any t-shirts? This designer cast his bread upon the waters and ended up with a profitable fashion line.
Seattle Couple Creates New “Income LiveStream”: When a married couple runs into logistical problems at their wedding, it leads to an innovative service that other engaged couples need during the pandemic.
Role-Playing Pastor Rolls The Dice On $2800/Month Hustle: Listener success story! This Presbyterian minister turns to his lifelong interest in role-playing games to set up a sustainable second income source.
Inspiration is good; inspiration combined with action is better. Now get back to work!
Yours in the revolution,
<img class="alignnone wp-image-1825" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png" alt="cg-sig-newsletter" width="176" height="82" srcset="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png 300w, https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter.png 450w" sizes="(max-width: 176px) 100vw, 176px">

Resources
GET $625 IN FREE TRAVEL
Earn 50,000 travel rewards points (enough for 2 round-trip plane tickets or $625 in travel credit). You'll also earn 2x points on all travel and dining spend, with zero foreign transaction fees.
I use this card every day all over the world! ✈️
Learn More

CREATE YOUR ONLINE STORE
Create your online store with Shopify using an exclusive discount for Side Hustle School listeners. For a limited time, get a free 21-day trial and a 10% discount for a whole year.
Many Side Hustle School listeners are building sites using Shopify's easy-to-learn platform. Try it free today!

Learn More

Sponsors & Gratitude
Learn More With Skillshare!
Supporting the sponsors keeps the show free. Today’s episode of Side Hustle School is brought to you by Skillshare. 📷
Skillshare is giving Side Hustle School listeners 2 months of unlimited access—for $0.99! Join the 2 million students learning everything from street photography to SEO on Skillshare today!

Get Started Here!

Like the Show? Leave a Rating!
Side Hustle School is for you! If you’re enjoying it, please take a quick moment to leave a rating or write a quick review. It's really easy and it makes a difference! ✅
It also makes a huge difference when you tell your friends about the show. Remember, it's 100% free and listener-supported.

Here's How

Keep in Touch
<img class="aligncenter wp-image-1272 size-full" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/ChrisGuillebeauSideHustleSchoolFull-1.jpg" width="1076" height="251">
There’s a new story every single day on Side Hustle School. Episodes are produced to be short and to the point—I know you’re busy. Be sure you subscribe to get instant notification of the day’s broadcast!

Follow
Facebook,Instagram,Twitter

Email
[email protected]

Say Hi
From your favorite airport

To infinity and beyond,
Chris Guillebeau
9 min
May 24, 2025Q&A: “Is YouTube really ‘top of funnel’ for educational creators?”
What It’s About
Should you focus more effort on YouTube?

Notes from Chris
Episode 3066
YouTube is packed with educational creators who share valuable content, build big followings, and seem to be thriving. But does having a large audience actually translate into paying customers? That’s what Jason from Vancouver wants to know.
He’s been creating personal finance content and keeps hearing that YouTube is the best way to drive sales for courses, coaching, or memberships—but he’s skeptical. Do YouTube audiences actually buy, or do they just expect everything for free? Let’s talk about whether YouTube is a real sales funnel or if there are better ways to monetize your expertise.
“Hi Chris, this is Jason from Vancouver. I create educational content on personal finance, and I keep hearing that YouTube is the best way to build an audience and drive sales for courses, coaching, or memberships. But is that actually true? I see a lot of creators with big YouTube followings, but I wonder if those audiences actually convert into paying customers or just expect everything for free. Is YouTube really the best way to attract buyers, or are there smarter ways to turn an audience into paying customers?”
Listen to today’s episode to learn more…

SEE ALSO:
Catholic Designer Creates Stylish Apparel Line: What shall it profit a man to gain the whole world but not sell any t-shirts? This designer cast his bread upon the waters and ended up with a profitable fashion line.
Seattle Couple Creates New “Income LiveStream”: When a married couple runs into logistical problems at their wedding, it leads to an innovative service that other engaged couples need during the pandemic.
Role-Playing Pastor Rolls The Dice On $2800/Month Hustle: Listener success story! This Presbyterian minister turns to his lifelong interest in role-playing games to set up a sustainable second income source.
Inspiration is good; inspiration combined with action is better. Now get back to work!
Yours in the revolution,
<img class="alignnone wp-image-1825" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png" alt="cg-sig-newsletter" width="176" height="82" srcset="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png 300w, https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter.png 450w" sizes="(max-width: 176px) 100vw, 176px">

Resources
GET $625 IN FREE TRAVEL
Earn 50,000 travel rewards points (enough for 2 round-trip plane tickets or $625 in travel credit). You'll also earn 2x points on all travel and dining spend, with zero foreign transaction fees.
I use this card every day all over the world! ✈️
Learn More

CREATE YOUR ONLINE STORE
Create your online store with Shopify using an exclusive discount for Side Hustle School listeners. For a limited time, get a free 21-day trial and a 10% discount for a whole year.
Many Side Hustle School listeners are building sites using Shopify's easy-to-learn platform. Try it free today!

Learn More

Sponsors & Gratitude
Learn More With Skillshare!
Supporting the sponsors keeps the show free. Today’s episode of Side Hustle School is brought to you by Skillshare. 📷
Skillshare is giving Side Hustle School listeners 2 months of unlimited access—for $0.99! Join the 2 million students learning everything from street photography to SEO on Skillshare today!

Get Started Here!

Like the Show? Leave a Rating!
Side Hustle School is for you! If you’re enjoying it, please take a quick moment to leave a rating or write a quick review. It's really easy and it makes a difference! ✅
It also makes a huge difference when you tell your friends about the show. Remember, it's 100% free and listener-supported.

Here's How

Keep in Touch
<img class="aligncenter wp-image-1272 size-full" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/ChrisGuillebeauSideHustleSchoolFull-1.jpg" width="1076" height="251">
There’s a new story every single day on Side Hustle School. Episodes are produced to be short and to the point—I know you’re busy. Be sure you subscribe to get instant notification of the day’s broadcast!

Follow
Facebook,Instagram,Twitter

Email
[email protected]

Say Hi
From your favorite airport

To infinity and beyond,
Chris Guillebeau
8 min
May 23, 2025Q&A: “How do I take a break from my hustle without losing momentum?”
What It’s About
This side hustler needs a break!

Notes from Chris
Episode 3065
Side hustles are supposed to give you freedom, but what happens when you start feeling burned out? Taking a break can feel risky—you don’t want to lose customers, hurt your progress, or undo all your hard work. That’s exactly what Lauren from Brooklyn is struggling with.
She loves her side hustle, but she’s exhausted and doesn’t know how to step away without losing everything she’s built. Let’s talk about how to take a break strategically, so your business doesn’t just survive—it comes back stronger when you’re ready.
“Hey Chris, this is Lauren from Brooklyn. I love my side hustle, and it’s been growing steadily, but lately, I’m feeling totally burned out. The problem is, I don’t know how to step away without losing all my progress. If I take a break, I worry that customers will move on, my audience will stop engaging, or I’ll have to start from scratch when I come back. How do I take a break from my side hustle in a way that doesn’t hurt my long-term success?”
Listen to today’s episode to learn more…

SEE ALSO:
Catholic Designer Creates Stylish Apparel Line: What shall it profit a man to gain the whole world but not sell any t-shirts? This designer cast his bread upon the waters and ended up with a profitable fashion line.
Seattle Couple Creates New “Income LiveStream”: When a married couple runs into logistical problems at their wedding, it leads to an innovative service that other engaged couples need during the pandemic.
Role-Playing Pastor Rolls The Dice On $2800/Month Hustle: Listener success story! This Presbyterian minister turns to his lifelong interest in role-playing games to set up a sustainable second income source.
Inspiration is good; inspiration combined with action is better. Now get back to work!
Yours in the revolution,
<img class="alignnone wp-image-1825" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png" alt="cg-sig-newsletter" width="176" height="82" srcset="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png 300w, https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter.png 450w" sizes="(max-width: 176px) 100vw, 176px">

Resources
GET $625 IN FREE TRAVEL
Earn 50,000 travel rewards points (enough for 2 round-trip plane tickets or $625 in travel credit). You'll also earn 2x points on all travel and dining spend, with zero foreign transaction fees.
I use this card every day all over the world! ✈️
Learn More

CREATE YOUR ONLINE STORE
Create your online store with Shopify using an exclusive discount for Side Hustle School listeners. For a limited time, get a free 21-day trial and a 10% discount for a whole year.
Many Side Hustle School listeners are building sites using Shopify's easy-to-learn platform. Try it free today!

Learn More

Sponsors & Gratitude
Learn More With Skillshare!
Supporting the sponsors keeps the show free. Today’s episode of Side Hustle School is brought to you by Skillshare. 📷
Skillshare is giving Side Hustle School listeners 2 months of unlimited access—for $0.99! Join the 2 million students learning everything from street photography to SEO on Skillshare today!

Get Started Here!

Like the Show? Leave a Rating!
Side Hustle School is for you! If you’re enjoying it, please take a quick moment to leave a rating or write a quick review. It's really easy and it makes a difference! ✅
It also makes a huge difference when you tell your friends about the show. Remember, it's 100% free and listener-supported.

Here's How

Keep in Touch
<img class="aligncenter wp-image-1272 size-full" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/ChrisGuillebeauSideHustleSchoolFull-1.jpg" width="1076" height="251">
There’s a new story every single day on Side Hustle School. Episodes are produced to be short and to the point—I know you’re busy. Be sure you subscribe to get instant notification of the day’s broadcast!

Follow
Facebook,Instagram,Twitter

Email
[email protected]

Say Hi
From your favorite airport

To infinity and beyond,
Chris Guillebeau
7 min
May 22, 2025TBT: Turning Plastic into High-End Interior Pieces
What It’s About
This printing fan finds a cool way to make art for boutique stores.

Notes from Chris
Episode 3064
Welcome to Throwback Thursday / “Where are they now?” where we take an in-depth look at someone who’s story has evolved considerably since we first featured them.
Last week, we heard from a Canadian ecommerce expert turned his experience running an FBA shop into a consulting business, helping fellow Canadian sellers break into the lucrative U.S. market.
Today, in our latest feature, we’ll hear from a 3D printing enthusiast who scaled from making small gifts to crafting high-end home décor for designers and boutique stores.
Listen to today’s episode to hear more…

SEE ALSO:
Raver Turns LED-Powered Gloves Into Bright Future: When a raver-turned-salesperson falls in love with an underground art form, he turns it into a successful side business.
Bright Idea Leads Chicago Woman to Million-Dollar Hustle: A Chicago-based plastic recycling sales rep overcomes her fears and doubts to transform her love for DIY lamp shades and $10 in supplies into a multi-million dollar business.
3D Printing Brings Cosplay Into 21st Century: With a 3D printer and sense of imagination, a California natural gas industry worker takes superhero DIY cosplay to a whole new level.
Inspiration is good; inspiration combined with action is better. Now get back to work!
Yours in the revolution,
<img class="alignnone wp-image-1825" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png" alt="cg-sig-newsletter" width="176" height="82" srcset="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png 300w, https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter.png 450w" sizes="(max-width: 176px) 100vw, 176px">

Resources
CREATE YOUR ONLINE STORE
Create your online store with Shopify using an exclusive discount for Side Hustle School listeners. For a limited time, get a free 21-day trial and a 10% discount for a whole year.
Many Side Hustle School listeners are building sites using Shopify's easy-to-learn platform. Try it free today!

Learn More

GET YOUR FIRST 1,000 EMAIL SUBSCRIBERS
Social media is nice, but building an email list is still the single best way to get customers and clients for your hustle. It's not hard to get started—sign up for a 30-day trial and join the list-building challenge! You’ll be up and running in no time.
Learn More

Sponsors & Gratitude
Don't Do Business Without It
Side Hustle School is brought to you by American Express.
No matter what you do in business, from working nine-to-five to working five-to-nine, it’s easier when you don’t go it alone. Get the powerful backing of American Express—don't do business without it! 💳
Visit American Express

Like the Show? Leave a Rating!
Side Hustle School is for you! If you’re enjoying it, please take a quick moment to leave a rating or write a quick review. It's really easy and it makes a difference! ✅
It also makes a huge difference when you tell your friends about the show. Remember, it's 100% free and listener-supported.

Here's How

Keep in Touch
<img class="aligncenter wp-image-1272 size-full" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/ChrisGuillebeauSideHustleSchoolFull-1.jpg" width="1076" height="251">
There’s a new story every single day on Side Hustle School. Episodes are produced to be short and to the point—I know you’re busy. Be sure you subscribe to get instant notification of the day’s broadcast!

Follow
Facebook,Instagram,Twitter

Email
[email protected]

Say Hi
From your favorite airport

To infinity and beyond,
Chris Guillebeau
7 min
May 21, 2025Golfer Takes Swing At Content Website
What It’s About
Fore!

Notes from Chris
Episode 3063
In today’s story…
…a sales agency manager transforms his frustration with online golf advice into a thriving niche website, generating $5,000 in monthly income through multiple sources of revenue.
Listen to today’s episode to learn more…

SEE ALSO:
Catholic Designer Creates Stylish Apparel Line: What shall it profit a man to gain the whole world but not sell any t-shirts? This designer cast his bread upon the waters and ended up with a profitable fashion line.
Seattle Couple Creates New “Income LiveStream”: When a married couple runs into logistical problems at their wedding, it leads to an innovative service that other engaged couples need during the pandemic.
Role-Playing Pastor Rolls The Dice On $2800/Month Hustle: Listener success story! This Presbyterian minister turns to his lifelong interest in role-playing games to set up a sustainable second income source.
Inspiration is good; inspiration combined with action is better. Now get back to work!
Yours in the revolution,
<img class="alignnone wp-image-1825" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png" alt="cg-sig-newsletter" width="176" height="82" srcset="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png 300w, https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter.png 450w" sizes="(max-width: 176px) 100vw, 176px">

Resources
GET $625 IN FREE TRAVEL
Earn 50,000 travel rewards points (enough for 2 round-trip plane tickets or $625 in travel credit). You'll also earn 2x points on all travel and dining spend, with zero foreign transaction fees.
I use this card every day all over the world! ✈️
Learn More

CREATE YOUR ONLINE STORE
Create your online store with Shopify using an exclusive discount for Side Hustle School listeners. For a limited time, get a free 21-day trial and a 10% discount for a whole year.
Many Side Hustle School listeners are building sites using Shopify's easy-to-learn platform. Try it free today!

Learn More

Sponsors & Gratitude
Learn More With Skillshare!
Supporting the sponsors keeps the show free. Today’s episode of Side Hustle School is brought to you by Skillshare. 📷
Skillshare is giving Side Hustle School listeners 2 months of unlimited access—for $0.99! Join the 2 million students learning everything from street photography to SEO on Skillshare today!

Get Started Here!

Like the Show? Leave a Rating!
Side Hustle School is for you! If you’re enjoying it, please take a quick moment to leave a rating or write a quick review. It's really easy and it makes a difference! ✅
It also makes a huge difference when you tell your friends about the show. Remember, it's 100% free and listener-supported.

Here's How

Keep in Touch
<img class="aligncenter wp-image-1272 size-full" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/ChrisGuillebeauSideHustleSchoolFull-1.jpg" width="1076" height="251">
There’s a new story every single day on Side Hustle School. Episodes are produced to be short and to the point—I know you’re busy. Be sure you subscribe to get instant notification of the day’s broadcast!

Follow
Facebook,Instagram,Twitter

Email
[email protected]

Say Hi
From your favorite airport

To infinity and beyond,
Chris Guillebeau
8 min
May 20, 2025Q&A: “Are there any ‘good’ MLMs?”
What It’s About
Is it just “a few bad apples” or should you avoid the whole industry of network marketing?

Notes from Chris
Episode 3062
MLMs—multi-level marketing companies—are everywhere, from skincare to supplements to kitchen gadgets. Some people claim they’ve made real money, while others warn they’re just legal pyramid schemes. So, is there such a thing as a ‘good’ MLM?
Today’s question comes from Emily in Phoenix, who’s been approached by friends and family about joining one but is hesitant due to MLMs’ reputation. Let’s break down how these businesses really work and whether they’re ever worth pursuing.
“Hi Chris, this is Emily from Phoenix. I’ve been approached by friends and family about joining MLMs (multi-level marketing companies) over the years, and I always hesitate because they seem to have a bad reputation. But I’ve heard some people say there are ethical or ‘good’ MLMs out there that really work. Are there any MLMs you’d consider legitimate, or is this just not a good side hustle to pursue in general?”
Listen to today’s episode to learn more…

SEE ALSO:
Catholic Designer Creates Stylish Apparel Line: What shall it profit a man to gain the whole world but not sell any t-shirts? This designer cast his bread upon the waters and ended up with a profitable fashion line.
Seattle Couple Creates New “Income LiveStream”: When a married couple runs into logistical problems at their wedding, it leads to an innovative service that other engaged couples need during the pandemic.
Role-Playing Pastor Rolls The Dice On $2800/Month Hustle: Listener success story! This Presbyterian minister turns to his lifelong interest in role-playing games to set up a sustainable second income source.
Inspiration is good; inspiration combined with action is better. Now get back to work!
Yours in the revolution,
<img class="alignnone wp-image-1825" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png" alt="cg-sig-newsletter" width="176" height="82" srcset="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png 300w, https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter.png 450w" sizes="(max-width: 176px) 100vw, 176px">

Resources
GET $625 IN FREE TRAVEL
Earn 50,000 travel rewards points (enough for 2 round-trip plane tickets or $625 in travel credit). You'll also earn 2x points on all travel and dining spend, with zero foreign transaction fees.
I use this card every day all over the world! ✈️
Learn More

CREATE YOUR ONLINE STORE
Create your online store with Shopify using an exclusive discount for Side Hustle School listeners. For a limited time, get a free 21-day trial and a 10% discount for a whole year.
Many Side Hustle School listeners are building sites using Shopify's easy-to-learn platform. Try it free today!

Learn More

Sponsors & Gratitude
Learn More With Skillshare!
Supporting the sponsors keeps the show free. Today’s episode of Side Hustle School is brought to you by Skillshare. 📷
Skillshare is giving Side Hustle School listeners 2 months of unlimited access—for $0.99! Join the 2 million students learning everything from street photography to SEO on Skillshare today!

Get Started Here!

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Side Hustle School is for you! If you’re enjoying it, please take a quick moment to leave a rating or write a quick review. It's really easy and it makes a difference! ✅
It also makes a huge difference when you tell your friends about the show. Remember, it's 100% free and listener-supported.

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There’s a new story every single day on Side Hustle School. Episodes are produced to be short and to the point—I know you’re busy. Be sure you subscribe to get instant notification of the day’s broadcast!

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Email
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Say Hi
From your favorite airport

To infinity and beyond,
Chris Guillebeau
7 min
May 19, 2025First $1,000: Coffee Gear Affiliate Site Brews Profits
What It’s About
He writes about coffee and collects monthly payments for it.

Notes from Chris
Episode 3061
Today’s episode is part of a feature we call ‘Your First $1,000.’ As you might surmise from the title, this is all about how someone made their first $1,000.
How did they get to that point? Not their first $100,000—that’s cool, but it would probably be a long story.
But what about their first $1,000—how did they make that happen, what did it feel like, and what did they learn?
Let’s hear today’s story. I’ll be back at the end to wrap us up.

SEE ALSO:
Military Spouse Starts Subscription Box Mission:When an HR Director’s husband is away on military deployment, she uses the alone time to march toward a subscription box.
Think Inside the Subscription Box:Looking for more community, a North Carolina web agency owner starts a subscription box for female entrepreneurs. It’s supposed to be a referral tool for her agency, but it ends up becoming a full-time business of its own.
Nature-Loving Neighbors Create Kids Subscription Box: When two couples can’t figure out how to get their kids outdoors and away from electronics in the winter, a personal challenge blossoms into an unbeLEAFable side hustle.
Inspiration is good; inspiration combined with action is better. Now get back to work!
Yours in the revolution,
<img class="alignnone wp-image-1825" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png" alt="cg-sig-newsletter" width="176" height="82" srcset="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png 300w, https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter.png 450w" sizes="(max-width: 176px) 100vw, 176px">

Resources
WEB HOSTING @ $2.49/MONTH
Want to build any kind of website for your hustle? If so, you'll need somewhere to host it! This is the reliable company I've used for many websites. It's cheap, flexible, and offers support 24-7.
Get your own hosting plan for just $2.49 a month!

Learn More

GET $625 IN FREE TRAVEL
Earn 50,000 travel rewards points (enough for 2 round-trip plane tickets or $625 in travel credit). You'll also earn 2x points on all travel and dining spend, with zero foreign transaction fees.
I use this card every day all over the world! ✈️
Learn More

Sponsors & Gratitude
Don't Do Business Without It
Side Hustle School is brought to you by American Express.
No matter what you do in business, from working nine-to-five to working five-to-nine, it’s easier when you don’t go it alone. Get the powerful backing of American Express—don't do business without it! 💳
Visit American Express

Like the Show? Leave a Rating!
Side Hustle School is for you! If you’re enjoying it, please take a quick moment to leave a rating or write a quick review. It's really easy and it makes a difference! ✅
It also makes a huge difference when you tell your friends about the show. Remember, it's 100% free and listener-supported.

Here's How

Keep in Touch
<img class="aligncenter wp-image-1272 size-full" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/ChrisGuillebeauSideHustleSchoolFull-1.jpg" width="1076" height="251">
There’s a new story every single day on Side Hustle School. Episodes are produced to be short and to the point—I know you’re busy. Be sure you subscribe to get instant notification of the day’s broadcast!

Follow
Facebook,Instagram,Twitter

Email
[email protected]

Say Hi
From your favorite airport

To infinity and beyond,
Chris Guillebeau
7 min
May 18, 2025Weekend Workshop: Burn Down the Furniture Store
What It’s About
Today’s episode comes from Day 21, which is all about … sales and special offers!

Notes from Chris
Episode 3060
It’s Weekend Workshop, and it’s new!
Listen to today’s episode to learn more…

SEE ALSO:
Catholic Designer Creates Stylish Apparel Line: What shall it profit a man to gain the whole world but not sell any t-shirts? This designer cast his bread upon the waters and ended up with a profitable fashion line.
Seattle Couple Creates New “Income LiveStream”: When a married couple runs into logistical problems at their wedding, it leads to an innovative service that other engaged couples need during the pandemic.
Role-Playing Pastor Rolls The Dice On $2800/Month Hustle: Listener success story! This Presbyterian minister turns to his lifelong interest in role-playing games to set up a sustainable second income source.
Inspiration is good; inspiration combined with action is better. Now get back to work!
Yours in the revolution,
<img class="alignnone wp-image-1825" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png" alt="cg-sig-newsletter" width="176" height="82" srcset="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter-300x140.png 300w, https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/CG-Sig-Newsletter.png 450w" sizes="(max-width: 176px) 100vw, 176px">

Resources
GET $625 IN FREE TRAVEL
Earn 50,000 travel rewards points (enough for 2 round-trip plane tickets or $625 in travel credit). You'll also earn 2x points on all travel and dining spend, with zero foreign transaction fees.
I use this card every day all over the world! ✈️
Learn More

CREATE YOUR ONLINE STORE
Create your online store with Shopify using an exclusive discount for Side Hustle School listeners. For a limited time, get a free 21-day trial and a 10% discount for a whole year.
Many Side Hustle School listeners are building sites using Shopify's easy-to-learn platform. Try it free today!

Learn More

Sponsors & Gratitude
Learn More With Skillshare!
Supporting the sponsors keeps the show free. Today’s episode of Side Hustle School is brought to you by Skillshare. 📷
Skillshare is giving Side Hustle School listeners 2 months of unlimited access—for $0.99! Join the 2 million students learning everything from street photography to SEO on Skillshare today!

Get Started Here!

Like the Show? Leave a Rating!
Side Hustle School is for you! If you’re enjoying it, please take a quick moment to leave a rating or write a quick review. It's really easy and it makes a difference! ✅
It also makes a huge difference when you tell your friends about the show. Remember, it's 100% free and listener-supported.

Here's How

Keep in Touch
<img class="aligncenter wp-image-1272 size-full" src="https://sidehustleschool.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/ChrisGuillebeauSideHustleSchoolFull-1.jpg" width="1076" height="251">
There’s a new story every single day on Side Hustle School. Episodes are produced to be short and to the point—I know you’re busy. Be sure you subscribe to get instant notification of the day’s broadcast!

Follow
Facebook,Instagram,Twitter

Email
[email protected]

Say Hi
From your favorite airport

To infinity and beyond,
Chris Guillebeau
7 min

About Side Hustle School

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A daily show for everyone who works a regular job and wants to start an income-earning project on the side. In each episode, listeners will hear a different story of someone who's started a side…

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