Side Hustle GROWTH

40 Episodes
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By: Christen N. James

Heya Heya Heya Friend, Welcome to the Side Hustle GROWTH Podcast! THE ultimate destination for ambitious women juggling full-time jobs and side hustles, who are READY to turn their passion projects into profitable businesses. Hosted by Christen N. James (CJ)—a Certified Life Skills Coach, Master Mindset Coach, and Creator of the Shine to FIVE™ Method—this podcast equips you with the tools, Mindset shifts, and strategies to quit the 9to5 and embrace entrepreneurship with CONFIDENCE.  In this Side Hustle podcast, CJ’s mission is simple: help you step into your Power, overcome self-doubt, and design a life where you go from ha...

The Side Hustle habits that Make or Break your Business.
#234
Today at 5:00 AM

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If your side hustle feels stuck, inconsistent, or straight-up exhausting, then this episode is your wake-up call. 

I am breaking down the 5 habits that make or break your business so you can finally create structure (not stress). 

From consistency and discipline to following up like a boss and staying in community, you’ll learn how to build a business that thrives even when life gets busy.

🎯 You’ll Learn:

How to stay consistent without burning outWhy discipline > motivation every single timeHow to use refle...


5 Time Hacks Every Side Hustler Needs to Know.
#233
10/30/2025

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Do you ever feel like there just aren’t enough hours in the day to juggle your 9to5, your side hustle, and everything in between? 

You’re not alone, sis, and today I’ve got you covered.

In this episode, I’m breaking down practical time hacks for 9to5 women with side hustles, the same strategies I teach my clients inside the Side HustleHER Club to create more progress with less pressure.

You’ll learn how to:

✨ Manage your energy, not j...


How to Get Unstuck and Regain Momentum in Your Side Hustle.
#232
10/10/2025

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If you’ve been feeling stuck, uninspired, or like your side hustle progress has hit a wall, this episode is your reboot moment.

I share practical tools and heartfelt insights to help you reconnect with your why, shift your mindset, and take strategic action to rebuild momentum in your side hustle.

✨You’ll learn:

Why feeling “stuck” is actually feedback, not failureHow to reconnect with your why and reignite motivationMindset shifts to move from overthinking to actionThree simple strategies to create movement again

🎧 Tune in, take...


Lessons from My 9to5 That Made Me a Stronger Entrepreneur. [REWIND]
#231
10/02/2025

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REWIND Episode!

We’re taking it back to one of the most-loved episodes of last year, originally titled "How I Leveraged my 9to5 for Entrepreneurial Success". because the lessons here are timeless for every side hustler balancing a 9to5.

In this REWIND, I open up about the strategies I used inside my corporate role that directly fueled my entrepreneurial growth. If you’ve ever wondered how to leverage your 9to5 as your training ground, this episode is packed with gems you...


How to Lead with Impact Before You Quit, with Rohene Bouajram.
#230
09/11/2025

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Award-winning Educator, Leadership Coach, and Podcast host Rohene Bouajram joins me to share how women can lead with impact inside their 9to5 before they walk away. 

Rohene opens up about glass and concrete ceilings, navigating burnout cycles, and redefining success on her own terms. This conversation will inspire you to reclaim your time, choose yourself, and step into leadership with confidence.

CHAPTERS

00:00 – Music Intro  
01:20 – Introduction and Guest Welcome  
02:03 – Rohene's Background and Journey  
06:19 – Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles  
16:14 – Burnout and Recovery  
26:33 – Stra...


Why Going Solo in Your Side Hustle is Slowing You Down.
#229
08/21/2025

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Are you winging it in your side hustle and wondering why you’re not seeing results? 

In this episode, I’m breaking down why trial-and-error isn’t a strategy and how to start planning like a boss. If you’re serious about turning your side hustle into your exit strategy, this one’s for you!


Chapters

1:20 Stop winging it in your side hustle

1:45 Why vibes and guesswork aren’t enough

2:30 My “winging it” story

3:30 The real cost of winging i...


Make Money in Your Side Hustle During the Summer Slowdown.
#228
08/07/2025

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Feeling the summer slowdown in your side hustle? 

You’re not alone—but you don’t have to sit in the slump. 

In this episode of the Side Hustle GROWTH Podcast, I’m breaking down exactly how you can stay visible, profitable, and aligned when business feels quiet.

You’ll learn:

3 money-making moves you can use during slow seasonsHow to shift your mindset to stay motivatedWhy visibility matters more than ever in the summer

Whether you’re still in your 9to5 or b...


The Secret to Career Growth for Introverts, with Lissa Appiah.
#227
06/26/2025

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Think you have to be the loudest person in the room to be seen as a leader? 

Think again. 

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Career Strategist Lissa Appiah to unpack how introverted women can stop doubting themselves and start leading with confidence—without changing who they are.

We talk about mindset, personal branding, quiet leadership, and how introverts can stand out in noisy workspaces by leveraging their real strengths. If you’ve ever felt like being “too quiet” was holding you back...


How to Reset Your Side Hustle Goals for the Second Half of the Year.
#226
06/19/2025

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Feeling behind in your side hustle? 

This mid-year check-in is exactly what you need. In this episode, I walk you through how to reset your side hustle goals for the second half of the year, with strategy, intention, and ZERO shame. 

Perfect for ambitious women balancing a 9to5 and a dream!


CHAPTERS 

01:20 - Intro: Time for a Mid-Year Vibe Check

02:20 - Why Summer is the Perfect Time to Reflect

03:30 - Resetting Your Mindset First

<...


Top 5 Side Hustle Mistakes Holding Back 9to5 Women. [REWIND]
#225
05/29/2025

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Are you building your side hustle while working a 9to5 — but feeling stuck or scattered? 

In this episode, I’m breaking down the top 5 mistakes women make when growing their side hustle… and how to avoid them so you can create real momentum.

From lack of focus to inconsistent visibility, I’ll help you identify the hidden habits that might be keeping you from growing, scaling, or confidently planning your exit strategy.

Whether you're side hustling for freedom, flexibility, or to finally quit that unfu...


The Biggest Summer Mistake that Side Hustle Women Make (What to Do Instead).
#224
05/22/2025

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Thinking of putting your side hustle on pause this summer? 🛑 

Before you do, let’s talk. In this episode, I break down the biggest mindset trap ambitious women fall into during the summer—and how it silently sabotages your long-term goals. 

You’ll learn how to manage your time, set realistic expectations, and keep your side hustle alive without burning out. 

If you're serious about staying consistent (and still having a life this summer), this episode is FOR YOU.

🔥 Inside this episode:

The...


Prepping Your Side Hustle for a Stress-Free Summer.
#223
05/15/2025

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Want a summer that doesn’t sabotage your side hustle?

This episode is your blueprint for keeping your business thriving without burning out. 

Whether you're dreaming of long weekends, beach days, or just taking it a bit slower—I've got strategies to help you prep now so you can actually enjoy the season while your side hustle stays on track. 

Plus, I’m sharing the #1 thing ambitious 9to5 women tend to overlook during the summer hustle.

👉🏽 Want to be part of a comm...


5 Easy Summer Side Hustles to Earn Extra Income.
#222
05/08/2025

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Summer's around the corner, and if you’re a 9to5 woman dreaming of earning extra cash without burning out—this episode is your guide. 

I’m sharing 5 super flexible, low-lift summer side hustle ideas you can start this week (yep, even if you’re planning to relax poolside). 

Whether you want to make money while traveling or just need something chill with income potential, these ideas will keep your wallet happy and your schedule free.


Chapters
 

00:00 – Intro

01:20 – Why...


Reset Your Side Hustle Goals Without Starting Over.
#221
04/24/2025

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Thought you'd start the year strong but now feeling like you’re already behind? 

Same, girl. In this episode, I’m keeping it real for the woman who had BIG side hustle plans for Q1 that didn’t exactly go as expected. 

Whether you're burned out, discouraged, or just trying to keep your head above water — this one’s for you.

We’re not scrapping the whole year. We’re resetting your goals with clarity and compassion — no shame, no guilt, no starting over from scratch...


The Secret to an Inclusive Brand that Drives Sales, with Cass R. Cooper
#220
04/17/2025

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Creating an inclusive brand isn’t just the “right” thing to do—it’s a smart business move. 

In this episode, I’m joined by Cass Cooper, a professional chaos whisperer and inclusive leadership expert, to explore how inclusivity directly impacts trust and sales. We unpack what it really means to be inclusive beyond the surface-level buzzwords, and how you can show up more intentionally in your brand.

Whether you’re building your biz on the side or full-time, this convo will challenge you to rethink how you...


How to Market your Side Hustle when you Hate Selling.
#219
04/10/2025

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Hate the idea of "selling yourself"? 

You’re not alone. In this episode, I break down how to market your side hustle in a way that feels authentic and aligned—not sleazy or salesy. 

You’ll learn why traditional marketing feels so hard, how to uncover your Unique Sales Style, and 3 simple strategies to show up online with confidence. If you've ever said, “I love what I do, but I hate selling myself,” this episode is a must-listen.

Ready to Uncover YOUR Unique...


How to Stand Out Online by Owning Your Niche, with Dalesa Bady.
#216
04/03/2025

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Have you ever felt like you need to talk to everyone to get clients? 

My guest, Dalesa Bady, knows firsthand that niching down can feel scary—but it’s the key to standing out and attracting the right people.

In this episode, Dalesa shares:

✅ How she went from a general coach to serving women leaders in Insurance
✅ The trial-and-error process of finding her Niche
✅ Why narrowing your Focus actually opens more doors

If you’re struggling to carve out your space on...


4 Signs You're Ready to Scale Your Side Hustle and Maximize Growth.
#217
03/27/2025

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Is it time to take your side hustle to the next level? 

If you’re wondering whether you’re ready to scale but feel unsure about the next steps, this episode is for you. 

I’m breaking down four key signs that indicate it’s time to expand your hustle—without burning out or losing money. 

We’ll also talk about how to assess your profitability and take practical steps to grow sustainably.

Tune in to learn: 

✅ The 4 major signs you’re READY...


Build a Profitable Side Hustle as a Mystery Shopper, with Mercedes Eckert.
#216
03/20/2025

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Ever thought about making money just by shopping? In this episode, I sit down with Mercedes Eckert, founder of iShop, to explore the world of mystery shopping—a flexible side hustle that can bring in extra cash on your schedule. 

Mercedes shares how she got started, what companies look for in mystery shoppers, and how you can avoid scams while maximizing your earnings. If you're looking for a unique way to make money on the side, this episode is for you!

🎧 Tune in to hea...


3 Biggest Challenges Women Face when Starting a Side Hustle.
#215
03/13/2025

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Starting a side hustle sounds exciting—extra income, more freedom, and finally doing something you love. But then reality hits. You're overwhelmed, second-guessing yourself, and struggling to make it work.

In this episode, I’m breaking down the top 3 obstacles that hold women back from growing their side hustle—lack of time, self-doubt, and not having a real strategy—and exactly how to push past them.

If you’ve been feeling stuck, this is the episode that will get you back on track.


Building a Side Hustle While Surviving a Toxic 9to5, with Nicole S. Palmer.
#214
03/06/2025

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Can you truly build a thriving side hustle without burning out in your corporate job? 

Nicole S Palmer shares how she did just that—on her terms.

In this episode, we dive into:

✅ How to manage corporate challenges while side hustling
✅ Navigating toxic work environments and protecting your peace
✅ Leveraging staffing agencies for more flexibility and career growth

If you’ve ever felt stuck between a paycheck and your passion, this episode is for you!

🔗 Listen now and take contr...


5 Key Lessons from My Side Hustle as a Culinary Guide.
#213
02/27/2025

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Side hustles aren’t just about starting a business from scratch! In this episode, I’m breaking down the five biggest lessons I’ve learned from my side hustle as a Culinary Guide—an opportunity that allows me to earn extra income, follow my passion for food, and work on my own terms.

You’ll learn: 

✔️ Why you don’t have to start your own business to feel successful.
✔️ How I found a sense of community and collaboration as a side hustler.
✔️ The importance...


Look Confident, Feel Confident, Dress for Success, with Shaquanna Chappelle.
#212
02/20/2025

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Confidence isn’t just about what you wear—it’s about how you show up. 

In this episode, I’m joined by Executive Presence Consultant and Wardrobe Stylist Shaquanna Chappelle, who helps professional women own their space and exude confidence in any room.

She shares her journey from corporate employee to entrepreneur, the wake-up call that led her to pivot, and how she helps women define their executive presence. 

Whether you're looking for a promotion, want to stand out at work, or just need a con...


6 Ways to Grow Your Side Hustle Without Relying on Social Media.
#211
02/13/2025

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Tired of chasing the algorithm? 

You don’t need social media to grow a thriving side hustle! 

In this episode, I’m breaking down six powerful, sustainable strategies that work without a single post, reel, or hashtag. Whether you’re overwhelmed by content creation or looking for ways to grow beyond social media, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you build real momentum.

🔑 What You’ll Learn:

A timeless strategy most side hustlers overlookHow to tap into built-in audi...


Top 5 Most Profitable Side Hustles for Women in 2025.
#210
02/06/2025

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2025 is here, and if you’re ready to start a side hustle that brings in consistent cash AND sets you up for long-term success, this is the episode you need! 💸

I’m sharing The Top 5 Profitable Side Hustles for 2025—all designed to align with market trends, maximize your strengths, and give you flexibility to grow.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

✅ Why trends + sustainability matter when choosing a hustle.
✅ The best hustles for earning consistent income in 2025.
✅ Actionable steps to test your hustle idea an...


12 Powerful Questions to Inspire Growth on your Entrepreneurial Journey. [REWIND]
#209
01/30/2025

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___________

Feeling stuck building your business without a support system? 

The Side HustleHER Club is your go-to community for Accountability, Clarity, and REAL Strategy, so you can stop guessing and start growing. Join us at SideHustleHERClub.com 💜

Support the show

Find out MORE about The Side HustleHER Club HERE

__________

🎧 Loved the episode?

Take the next step with the Side Hustle Confidence Kit — FREE download to help you BOOST your Mindset, show up BOLDLY & build your exit plan. 💜<...


Your Guide to Growing a Thriving Side Hustle Empire, with Bianca B. King.
#208
01/23/2025

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Join me in this  conversation with powerhouse Bianca B. King, founder and CEO of Pretty Damn Ambitious, as we dive into what it takes to build your Empire one step at a time. 

From climbing the corporate ladder to scaling a global marketing agency, Bianca shares: 

The pivotal challenges that shaped her success. How mindset is the key to transforming your side hustle into a thriving business. Her journey of overcoming self-doubt and finding confidence in the midst of uncertainty. 

Whether you're a side hustler or a s...


How to Choose a Side Hustle That Aligns with Your Future Goals.
#207
01/16/2025

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Scrolling TikTok for side hustle inspo? Stop the cycle of quick starts and quicker burnouts! 

In this episode, I share why alignment is key when choosing a side hustle that’s not just profitable but feels good to run.

Discover how to:

✔️ Align your hustle with your long-term goals.
✔️ Get clear on your future self’s vision.
✔️ Use a simple checklist to find the perfect hustle fit.

Ready to start a side hustle that works for you, not against you? Tune in for...


How Multi-Passionate Women can Focus on Their “One Thing“, with Lynne Stokes.
#206
01/09/2025

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Are you a multi-passionate individual feeling scattered or stuck trying to define your personal brand?

In this episode, I sit down with Lynne Stokes, a seasoned Brand Strategist with 20+ years of experience managing iconic brands like Ford, PepsiCo, Disney World, and Krispy Kreme. 

Now a thriving entrepreneur, Lynne specializes in helping midlife professional women find clarity, confidence, and alignment in their personal and professional lives.

We cover:

~ The Power of the "Brand Umbrella" – Learn how to connect your diverse pas...


How to Set New Year Goals that Drive Side Hustle Success.
#205
01/02/2025

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HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!  🎊🎉

Ready to make 2025 the year your side hustle takes off? 

In this episode, I share tips for effective goal-setting strategies tailored for side hustlers. 

You’ll discover how to align your goals with your bigger vision, avoid common pitfalls, and create a plan that keeps you motivated all year long.

Highlights include:

How the SHINE to FIVE Method transforms your goal-setting approach.The top 3 goal-setting mistakes side hustlers make (and how to fix them).Actionable steps to ma...


Reflecting on 2024 and Setting Intentions for Side Hustle Growth.
#204
12/19/2024

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"Setting intentions isn't just about wishful thinking. There's nothing woo woo about being intentional." - 01:58

As we close out 2024, let’s talk about setting powerful intentions for the new year!

In this episode of the Side Hustle GROWTH Podcast, I guide you through a reflective process to celebrate your wins, learn from challenges, and set yourself up for success in 2025.

You’ll discover:
✨ Why clarity is key when setting goals.
✨ The importance of a brain dump to prioritize your dreams.
✨ My SHINE F...


Low-Cost Methods to Promote Your Side Hustle.
#203
12/12/2024

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This episode is all about helping you grow your hustle without emptying your wallet. 

If you’re juggling passion with tight budgets, I’ve got your back with creative, effective strategies to promote your side hustle on a dime.

Here’s what you’ll learn:
✨ Why a small budget doesn’t mean small results.
✨ Social media hacks that don’t cost a thing.
✨ How to turn happy clients into your biggest cheerleaders.
✨ Networking tips to build genuine connections for free.
✨ Budget-friendly email m...


The 4R Method that Boosts your Holiday Productivity in Business. [REWIND]
#202
12/05/2024

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It’s time for a trip down memory lane! I’m bringing back this gem of an episode from December 2022, and trust me, it’s just as relevant now as it was then.

In this episode, I share The 4 R's to Boost Your Holiday Productivity in Business – four simple yet powerful steps to help you celebrate the season the way you truly deserve. No guilt, no second-guessing, just a clear path to honoring your free time without sacrificing your goals.

These 4 R’s will:
...


Creating a Safety Net for Your Side Hustle.
#201
11/28/2024

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Side hustling is a wild ride, full of highs and unexpected challenges. So, how do you protect yourself when things don’t go as planned? By creating a safety net!

In this episode, I’m breaking down what a safety net really is (hint: it’s not just financial) and how to build one that works for you. From emergency funds to backup plans and real-life examples of side hustlers who’ve weathered the storm, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you hustle smarter.

Her...


Celebrating 200 Episodes (with Special Appearances)!
#200
11/21/2024

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In this milestone 200th episode, we’re celebrating Side Hustle GROWTH ranking in the Top 3%! 🎉 

Since launching in January 2021, we’ve shared game-changing advice, heartfelt stories, and wisdom from some incredible guests who’ve inspired, motivated, and empowered so many side hustlers on their journey. 

Today, I’m reflecting on where we started, how we got here, and what’s next! 

Make sure to catch this one on YouTube for special video highlights! Get ready for a trip down memory lane with video highlights from...


How to Find the Right Funding for Your Side Hustle, with Latanya Housen.
#199
11/14/2024

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In this episode of Side Hustle GROWTH, I sit down with Financial Expert Latanya Housen, who brings over 15 years of experience across Canada and Jamaica, empowering entrepreneurs—especially side hustlers—with the knowledge they need to secure the right funding without dipping into personal income.

Join us as we explore funding options tailored to side hustlers, from grants and loans to investor opportunities, with a special focus on overcoming common funding obstacles faced by women and minority entrepreneurs.

Episode Highlights:

Finding Fit...


6 Tips for Handling Rejection in Business.
#198
11/07/2024

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In today’s episode, we're tackling a crucial, often dreaded part of the side-hustle journey—rejection. 

Whether it's a “no” from a client or a pitch that falls flat, rejection is a universal experience for entrepreneurs. But here’s the thing: it doesn’t have to derail you. 

Join me as I share six actionable tips on reframing rejection, building resilience, and staying motivated. Discover how to turn every “no” into a stepping stone toward success and use it to fuel your growth.

Chapters:


How to Create an Irresistible Offer that Sells.
#197
10/31/2024

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In this episode of Side Hustle Growth, we’re unlocking the secrets to creating an offer so irresistible, it practically sells itself. 

I break down the exact steps to transform your big ideas into a solution your audience can’t resist. 

From knowing your ideal client to consistently showing up for them, it’s all here! 

Learn how to connect authentically, design offers they actually want, and build trust that leads to sales.

Highlights:

Know Your Ideal Client:<...


Building a Thriving Business using Just Your Phone, with King Ashley Ann. [REWIND]
#196
10/24/2024

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I’m thrilled to bring back one of our most-loved conversations with social media strategist King Ashley-Ann, whose expertise has helped nearly 800 entrepreneurs reach six-figure incomes and 156 clients hit the million-dollar mark—all from their smartphones!

From building a clear niche to creating funnels that convert, Ashley-Ann shares how to capture attention, engage your audience, and turn followers into paying customers without a massive following.

This episode is packed with actionable tips and mindset shifts to help you grow strategically. Get ready to be inspired and e...


Putting the SPARK Back into Your Work Day.
#195
10/17/2024

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Feeling disconnected from your 9to5 while your mind is on your side hustle or future business dreams? You’re not alone! 

In this episode, I’m diving into how to put the spark back into your workday, even when you’re mentally checked out. 

Learn how to leverage your current job to build skills, expand your network, and align your actions with your future entrepreneurial goals. 

Let’s turn your 9to5 into a launchpad, not a dead-end! Plus, discover micro-goals, celebrate small wins, and treat e...