The Side Hustle Economy: How to Know If You're Ready and What to Do With the Money

One in three Americans plans to start a side hustle or business in 2026. Most of the conversation around that number is about how to do it. Few conversations are about whether you're ready and what to do with the money when it starts coming in. That's this episode. They cover: What's actually driving the side hustle surge: ambition versus necessity The financial readiness checklist before you start The order of operations when you start receiving consistent side hustle income The self-employment tax surprise that blindsides many first-timers Why building a side hustle around what you genuinely want to offer beats chasing trends Whether 2026 with its slow hiring market, AI disruption, economic uncertainty, is actually a good time to start something new If you're sitting on an idea, already running something informally, or wondering whether the timing is finally right, this one is for you. Remember to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who could benefit.  Creating Wealth is hosted by Anastasia Taber, CFP®, and her father Bill Taber, a 40+ year investment advisor. New episodes every other Friday.