“Work Hard. Hustle Harder.”—Why Every Executive Needs a Side Hustle

Escape and Empower Podcast with David Greenberg and Peter GilfillanIn this episode of Escape and Empower, Dave and Pete dig into the explosive rise of the side hustle—and why it’s no longer just for Gen Z and gig workers. From rising costs to career uncertainty, executives across all life stages are adding a second (or third) income stream to stay ahead.The hosts unpack recent insights from The Wall Street Journal and Forbes, share personal stories from their Ford days, and outline how executives can strategically use a side hustle to build wealth—not just offset bills. Whether you’re preparing for a career transition or just looking to diversify your income, this conversation offers a grounded look at how to do it smartly.In this episode, Dave and Pete discuss:Why Side Hustles Are on the Rise Over 9 million Americans hold multiple jobs—the highest level since 2008. Executives are waking up to the need for income diversification.It’s Not Just About Extra Cash Side hustles should go beyond beer money. The right one can build wealth, become an asset, and create long-term financial stability.How Executives Are Reframing the Hustle Smart leaders aren’t trading hours for dollars—they’re building leveraged businesses that generate income without constant effort.The Tech Stack Advantage From Airbnb to pool cleaning to property maintenance franchises, modern tools make side hustles scalable and manageable—even for busy professionals.What Dave and Pete Wish They Knew at 30 They both reflect on blind loyalty to corporate life, and how starting a side business earlier could’ve built real freedom faster.Key Takeaways:The side hustle economy is mainstream—and accelerating across all age groupsExecutives need income streams that build, not just bufferToday’s tools make managing a business on the side easier than everA well-structured side gig can become a true asset—not just a jobPlanning now means protection later—especially during layoffs or downturns“We used to think working 7 to 6 with 50% travel was loyalty. Now, we know better. A side hustle isn’t disloyal—it’s smart.” — David GreenbergCONNECT WITH PETER GILFILLANMeet with Pete: https://go.hireyourself.com/gilfillan?utm_source=LinkedIn&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=IR Website: https://www.hireyourself.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petegilfillan/CONNECT WITH DAVID GREENBERGMeet with Dave: https://calendly.com/empoweredfranchisee/virtual-coffee-with-dave-the-empowered-franchiee-web?utm_source=LinkedIn&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=IR Website: https://empoweredfranchisee.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-greenberg-entrepreneur/