Podcast Summary: The Side Hustle Show – Episode 667: 10+ Side Hustle Trends for 2025
Host: Nick Loper
Guest: Spencer Haws of Niche Pursuits
Release Date: April 17, 2025
In this episode of "The Side Hustle Show," host Nick Loper teams up with Spencer Haws to delve into emerging side hustle trends poised to shape 2025. Their insightful discussion covers a range of strategies and shifts in the entrepreneurial landscape, providing listeners with actionable insights to adapt and thrive.
1. Shrinking SEO Landscape
Overview:
Nick and Spencer discuss the evolving nature of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) due to AI advancements and changing user behaviors. They highlight the challenges content creators face with Google's "zero-click" updates, which prioritize AI-generated answers and snippets, reducing organic traffic.
Key Points:
- Zero-Click Publishing: Google's algorithms are now favoring AI-overviews, relegating traditional listicle content to lower search result positions.
- User Behavior Shift: Increasing use of AI tools like ChatGPT as alternative search engines, leading to longer, more conversational queries.
Notable Quotes:
- Nick Loper [00:32]: “We've seen the shift towards what we might call social first audience building...”
- Spencer Haws [02:08]: “Google has changed, and content creators have to pivot their strategies accordingly.”
2. Social-First Audience Building
Overview:
With the decline in traditional SEO effectiveness, the emphasis is shifting to building audiences directly on social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Twitter.
Key Points:
- Platform Diversification: Entrepreneurs are leveraging multiple social channels to engage audiences where they already spend their time.
- Monetization Complexity: Transition from simple ad revenue models to more sophisticated monetization strategies like coaching or consulting programs.
Notable Quotes:
- Nick Loper [06:03]: “Maybe this is old school, but I still think you ought to have a website as your home base...”
- Spencer Haws [07:00]: “Building an audience is just becoming so important...”
3. Video-First Content as a Competitive Moat
Overview:
Video content, especially on platforms like YouTube and TikTok, is becoming a significant advantage for content creators. Unlike AI-generated written content, videos offer a personal touch that AI cannot easily replicate.
Key Points:
- Audience Trust and Engagement: Video allows for deeper relationships and trust-building with audiences.
- Content Variety: Short-form videos (e.g., TikTok) and long-form videos (e.g., YouTube) provide versatile engagement opportunities.
Notable Quotes:
- Spencer Haws [08:49]: “Video first content is a bigger moat...”
- Nick Loper [09:35]: “Video first social. First create that bigger moat where if you have that firsthand experience...”
4. The Fall of the Follower and Rise of Algorithms
Overview:
The dynamics of social media consumption are changing as algorithms prioritize content that engages users, often from accounts they do not follow. This presents both opportunities and challenges for creators.
Key Points:
- Viral Potential for New Creators: Compelling content can quickly gain visibility regardless of the creator’s follower count.
- Algorithm Dependence: Established creators must continuously innovate to maintain visibility amidst algorithm-driven feeds.
Notable Quotes:
- Nick Loper [10:53]: “The one that comes to mind is the... fall of the follower and the rise of the algorithm...”
- Spencer Haws [12:16]: “Some really small Facebook pages can have something go absolutely viral...”
5. Monetization Through Facebook’s Performance Bonus Program
Overview:
Spencer shares his success with Facebook's Performance Bonus Program, where creators earn revenue based on views and engagement of their content.
Key Points:
- Earning Potential: Spencer’s Facebook page generates between $3,500 to $5,000 monthly through high engagement content.
- Content Strategy: Focus on nostalgic and engaging image-based posts that encourage interaction.
Notable Quotes:
- Spencer Haws [19:32]: “Recently, my best month ever was just over $5,000...”
- Nick Loper [22:10]: “Do you have a sense of how often your VA is posting new stuff?”
6. AI-Assisted Tool Creation and Automation
Overview:
The rise of AI tools enables entrepreneurs to create software products, apps, and utilities without extensive coding knowledge. This trend lowers barriers to entry for tech-based side hustles.
Key Points:
- Custom GPT Tools: Automating tasks such as podcast editing by training AI models with specific preferences.
- Opportunity for Innovation: AI reduces development time and costs, allowing creators to focus on marketing and scaling.
Notable Quotes:
- Nick Loper [25:06]: “Could you provide some suggestions on what to trim from this episode...”
- Spencer Haws [27:46]: “It's like becoming cheaper to build a software business and there's still opportunity there.”
7. Email Newsletters as a Revenue Stream
Overview:
Email newsletters have evolved into viable business models, where large subscriber bases can generate substantial income through sponsorships and ad placements.
Key Points:
- Monetization Strategies: Securing sponsors for newsletter placements can lead to consistent revenue streams.
- Audience Engagement: Newsletters offer a direct line to a dedicated audience, enhancing trust and loyalty.
Notable Quotes:
- Nick Loper [43:01]: “What if the newsletter is the content and it's working really well for some people...”
- Spencer Haws [43:47]: “Newsletters as a business is a trend that’s gaining traction...”
8. Recurring Revenue Models (“Everything as a Service”)
Overview:
Subscription-based models are becoming prevalent across various industries, ensuring consistent income and customer retention.
Key Points:
- SaaS Integration: Hosting companies and other service providers are bundling multiple tools into single, recurring-payment packages.
- Customer Lifetime Value: Recurring revenue enhances business sustainability by maintaining continuous customer relationships.
Notable Quotes:
- Nick Loper [44:30]: “Thinking of that recurring revenue first versus a one-off purchase...”
- Spencer Haws [45:05]: “Time to think of recurring revenue as part of your pricing model.”
9. Fractional Support Services
Overview:
Specialized, part-time expert services (e.g., Fractional CTO, CFO) are gaining acceptance, allowing businesses to access high-level expertise without full-time commitments.
Key Points:
- Higher Rates for Specialists: Marketing oneself as a fractional expert can command higher fees compared to general freelance services.
- Niche Agencies: Focusing on specific areas of expertise enhances marketability and value proposition.
Notable Quotes:
- Nick Loper [51:30]: “Fractional CTO, Fractional CFO... elevates you above general freelance roles.”
- Spencer Haws [52:20]: “If you can be a specialist... you’re going to command that higher price.”
10. Influencer Marketing Partnerships and Co-Founders
Overview:
Collaborating with influencers, even micro-influencers, can significantly amplify product reach and credibility, offering a strategic alternative to traditional marketing channels.
Key Points:
- Leveraging Existing Audiences: Partnering with influencers who have established followings accelerates brand visibility and trust.
- Flexible Collaboration Models: From affiliate commissions to equity partnerships, various structures can be employed to align incentives.
Notable Quotes:
- Nick Loper [53:32]: “Influencer co-founders or partners can drive consistent traffic efficiently.”
- Spencer Haws [54:18]: “Partnering with influencers who have influence but lack business ideas is mutually beneficial.”
11. Reselling Physical Products (e.g., Pallet Flipping)
Overview:
Despite the digital surge, traditional side hustles like reselling physical goods remain viable. Entrepreneurs can capitalize on wholesale purchases and online marketplaces like eBay.
Key Points:
- Low-Cost Entry: Buying bulk pallets of returns and reselling individual items can yield profits with minimal upfront investment.
- Hands-On Learning: This side hustle offers practical business experience and potential for scalability.
Notable Quotes:
- Spencer Haws [55:50]: “We're going to unpack it, try and resell it on eBay. It's a business that never goes away.”
- Nick Loper [57:35]: “Buy low, sell high. Exposing kids to the basics of entrepreneurship.”
12. Local Service-Based Side Hustles
Overview:
As technology evolves, there’s a resurgence in demand for traditional, hands-on services such as window washing, house cleaning, and mobile car detailing. These businesses are less susceptible to automation and AI disruptions.
Key Points:
- Steady Demand: Physical services continue to be essential, ensuring consistent business opportunities.
- Low Barrier to Entry: Many service-based side hustles require minimal startup costs and can be launched quickly.
Notable Quotes:
- Nick Loper [57:11]: “The local plumbing service is not worried about AI. Computers aren't going to fix your pipes.”
- Spencer Haws [59:12]: “Local, in-person businesses won't be as impacted by technological changes.”
13. Publishing Content on Alternative Platforms (e.g., MSN)
Overview:
Spencer introduces an underutilized avenue for content monetization by publishing directly on platforms like MSN, which still attract substantial traffic, particularly from older demographics.
Key Points:
- Alternative Traffic Sources: Platforms like MSN.com can drive millions of views monthly, providing a lucrative supplementary revenue stream.
- Content Syndication: Republishing or creating unique content tailored for these platforms can enhance visibility and earnings.
Notable Quotes:
- Spencer Haws [47:10]: “People are publishing content directly on MSN. It’s still getting a ton of direct traffic.”
- Nick Loper [49:40]: “It’s another place to syndicate the content that you’re already creating for pretty low lift.”
14. Subscription-Based Newsletters and Communities
Overview:
Nick and Spencer emphasize the shift towards subscription models for newsletters and communities, offering higher engagement and recurring revenue through exclusive content and interactive elements.
Key Points:
- Community Engagement: Paid newsletters often include community features like masterminds, live coaching, and interactive forums.
- Sustainable Revenue: Recurring subscriptions ensure a steady income stream and foster long-term relationships with subscribers.
Notable Quotes:
- Nick Loper [37:40]: “More side hustle trends with Spencer in just a moment...”
- Spencer Haws [43:47]: “Newsletters as a business is a trend that’s gaining traction...”
Conclusion
In this insightful episode, Nick Loper and Spencer Haws explore a comprehensive array of side hustle trends for 2025, ranging from the challenges in the SEO landscape to innovative monetization strategies like influencer partnerships and subscription-based models. They also highlight the enduring viability of traditional service-based businesses and the potential of alternative content publishing platforms. By adapting to these trends, entrepreneurs can navigate the evolving marketplace and uncover new opportunities for growth and profitability.
Final Thoughts:
- Adaptability is Key: Staying attuned to changing algorithms and user behaviors is crucial.
- Diversify Revenue Streams: Leveraging multiple platforms and monetization methods can safeguard against market shifts.
- Embrace Technology: Utilizing AI and automation tools can enhance efficiency and open new avenues for side hustles.
Whether you're looking to pivot your current side hustle or embark on a new entrepreneurial journey, this episode provides valuable guidance to help you make informed decisions and capitalize on emerging trends.
Listen to the Full Episode:
For a deeper dive into these trends and more, tune into Episode 667 of "The Side Hustle Show" with Nick Loper and Spencer Haws.