Working from home full-time was rare in the past, but the pandemic reshaped the workforce landscape, creating a surge in full-time and part-time remote positions. Whether it’s working remotely for a company or starting your own business, these days there’s no shortage of work-from-home opportunities.

Working remotely offers significant advantages for those who prefer a more flexible work environment and the freedom to set their own schedule.

Pros of working from home can include:

• No time or cost is spent on commuting
• Less cost dedicated to professional attire.
• More options for home-based location and travel opportunities
• Schedules that allow people to work when they are most productive
• Flexibility to run errands, make appointments, or take care of dependents
• Better able to create a work-life balance

On the other hand, some remote workers have reported feelings of loneliness and isolation. If you are considering remote opportunities, ensure they are the right fit for your needs and personality.

Cons of working from home might include:

• Difficulty creating a work-life balance
• Less in-person contact with coworkers
• Feelings of isolation due to a lack of human connection
• Negative bias from superiors who prefer in-person employees
• Miscommunication due to a lack of physical cues through technology
• No opportunity for on-campus office perks like gyms or nutritious meals

Related: 70 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2025

If you decide working from home is right for you, look for stay-at-home jobs that fit your strengths. Here are more than 40 work-from-home opportunities, some of which require specialized training and many of which can be lucrative. These are not listed in any special order.

All average salaries sourced from Glassdoor or ZipRecruiter

1. Affiliate marketer

Affiliate marketing is a referral strategy in which you link to products and earn a commission on sales. Let’s say you have a website and link to a product on Amazon. When the visitor clicks the affiliate link and buys that product, Amazon will pay you a percentage of the sale as long as you’ve gone through the work to enroll in their affiliate program. You have to do work on the front end to make sure you’re enrolled with affiliate partners, but with relatively few startup costs, affiliate marketing can be a major source of passive income. Average salary: $82,000 annually

2. Animator

If you’re an artist capable of creating animation and visual effects for television, movies, video games, and other types of media, you often can find remote work as a freelance animator or illustrator. Many marketing agencies and publishers are also looking to hire independent contractors, which can lead to consistent freelance work. Average salary: $73,000 annually

3. Real estate wholesaler

Real estate wholesaling is a practical way to earn money by connecting motivated sellers with investors without ever owning or fixing up the properties yourself. The process usually starts when you identify a homeowner interested in selling, negotiate a contract with them, and then forward the contract to an investor for a fee. Most of your daily work, like researching neighborhoods, finding leads, and reaching out to sellers, can be handled from your laptop or phone, wherever you happen to be.

Digital tools have made wholesaling more accessible than ever. Apps and online platforms, such as DealMachine, help you spot off-market properties, reach out to owners, and keep track of leads; all from the comfort of your home office.

Since wholesaling doesn’t require much upfront capital or experience, it’s a great work-from-home option if you’re motivated and ready to learn. Thanks to modern real estate tech, you can get started quickly and grow at your own pace.

Average salary: Your earnings depend on your effort and network, but many successful wholesalers earn $50,000 to $100,000 or more annually

4. Baker, caterer, or chef

If you already have a knack for baking, cooking, and arranging meals, you could turn your passion into a side hustle. Maybe you start small by baking goods for friends, neighbors, online customers, or at a local farmer’s market. You could also launch a catering business or become a personal chef, though those endeavors may require more on-site work. Before you start selling any food products, though, look into the cottage food and catering licensing requirements in your state. Average salary: salary and income will vary

5. Writer and editor

Content writing and editing services are in high demand and can be an excellent way to make a living while working from home. You could run and monetize your own blog (see: affiliate marketing), offer copywriting and editing services to businesses, or even write grants for nonprofits, universities, hospitals, and other entities. I started Due 10+ years ago, and it has been a solid source of revenue ever since. Due started slow and built up year over year, and I stuck with it. Additionally, organizations large and small need freelancers to support their content initiatives. Sites like Fiverr and Upwork can be great places to find gigs — and for potential clients to find you. Average salary: salary and income will vary

6. Bookkeeper or tax preparer

You don’t have to be a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) to work as a bookkeeper; you’ll likely want to take an online course or one at a local college if you don’t have previous experience. Once you’ve completed a course, you can work part-time to help businesses keep their books. You can also help individuals prepare their taxes, but be sure to seek appropriate training and consider earning certifications that will keep you in compliance with Internal Revenue Service requirements. If you’re already a CPA, either of these jobs you can do at home with relatively little additional training. Average salary: $68,000 annually

7. Career and life coaching

Career and life coaching has grown in recent years, as many people seek to set and achieve new goals or overcome personal and professional hurdles. While anyone can become a career or life coach (and not everyone should), there are courses you can take and certifications you can earn that will lend your business authenticity and better equip you to work one-on-one with clients. I have a friend, Keith Crossley, who started and built this into a six-figure business in just under a year. Before you take on clients, it’s important to think about your qualifications, area of expertise, and determine what specific services you can provide. Average salary: salary and income will vary

8. Child caregiver

As daycare costs soared in recent years, families sought alternatives, which in some cases led parents to launch their own child-care businesses. Whether it’s for a couple of hours or the entire day, running a childcare business from your home can be lucrative, though you’ll want to make sure that you obtain the correct licenses and permits. Average salary: salary and income will vary

9. Clinical research coordinator

Clinical research coordinators manage clinical trial operations, including maintaining and organizing documentation, working closely with a team of medical professionals, and ensuring that all aspects of the trials follow established guidelines. While this type of gig typically requires post-secondary education, it can often be done from an at-home office. Average salary: $60,000 annually

10. Computer programmer

Computer programmers typically need to earn a bachelor’s degree in a related field or, at a minimum, need to take a coding bootcamp. If you’ve done this and you’re fluent in programming languages like HTML, JavaScript, CSS, Ruby, Python, or others, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to land a well-paying job that allows you to work from home. Average salary: $114,000 annually

11. Consultant

If you have experience and knowledge in a specific area, then consider sharing it with others through consulting. For example, if you’re an accountant or a lawyer, you can provide career advice to small businesses. If you have a background in software, you could help businesses make informed decisions about emerging technology. Before you start consulting, consider your skills and experience; the longer your track record, the more likely people will consider you an authority in your field. Average salary: salary and income will vary

12. Customer service representative

It’s relatively easy to get set up as a customer service representative. You need excellent communication skills, a landline, and a computer from which you can access a company’s call-log system. Once you’re set up, you can often choose your own hours—customer service lines are often 24/7—and set a schedule that works best for you. In some cases, you may need a degree in a relevant field. Average salary: $48,000 annually

13. Data entry clerk

Data entry is a role that doesn’t require extensive prior experience, and many businesses need data entry services. Typically, the role involves entering large datasets into spreadsheets or other online data storage systems. You’ll need quick, accurate typing skills and a computer with internet access. Average salary: $42,000 annually

14. Ecommerce store owner

The ecommerce industry has exploded in recent years with no signs of slowing down. Some ecommerce business models include dropshipping, wholesaling, manufacturing, white-labeling, and subscriptions. If you’re already creating a product, you may be well-positioned to launch an online side hustle. However, even if you don’t have a product, you can rely on one of the aforementioned business models—and sites like Shopify, Magento, and WooCommerce—to make money via ecommerce. Average salary: salary and income will vary

15. Instructional video producer

When people encounter problems—with their car, with an appliance, or with most things in life—one of the first places they turn is to YouTube. If you have a particular skill or knack for problem-solving, you can grow a major following on the platform by recording and posting instructional videos. They don’t have to be the highest quality, either. If you can help people fix an issue, you’ll rack up followers and soon start earning money via YouTube’s partner program. Average salary: salary and income will vary

16. Graphic designer

If you’re a digital designer and a pro at using products like Adobe or Canva, many businesses or organizations may be in need of your services to design logos, websites, or even ads. You can likely find a full-time job doing graphic design work that allows you to work from home, but as a graphic designer, you can also make good money building a client list as a freelancer. Average salary: $65,000 annually

17. Handmade crafter

If making handmade products like jewelry or furniture is already a hobby of yours, you could make it a full-time endeavor from your home. You’ll need to launch an online shop — perhaps using Etsy or Shopify—and learn the basics of ecommerce. Consider promoting your shop on social media to build up a following, which could turn your talent for crafting into a lucrative business. Average salary: salary and income will vary

18. Music instructor

If you’re a talented musician and a patient teacher, you could start offering music lessons in your living room. You could also consider teaching people virtually via video conference or recording lessons and uploading them to a YouTube channel, where others can learn from you. Average salary: $55,000 annually

19. Internet security specialist

Internet security specialists monitor networks for security threats and implement security standards. They can also install data protection systems. Given that online security is a major concern for many companies, this type of role is expected to grow steadily over the next several years. An Internet security specialist will require specialized training in cybersecurity and advanced knowledge of computer software systems, and you’ll need access to a secure network to take on this type of work. Average salary: $119,000 annually

20. Mock online juror

When attorneys prepare their clients for trial, they often seek feedback on their case and ask people to serve as mock jurors. While some of these opportunities are in person, many are virtual, with participants reviewing transcripts, videos, and photos and then offering their thoughts on the case. Here is a list of resources where you can find this kind of opportunity. Average salary: salary and income will vary

21. Online teacher or tutor

As with many professions, education has evolved over the past several years and, in many cases, can now be done from a home office. If you’re a teacher or subject-matter expert seeking a flexible schedule, consider teaching online courses or offering tutoring services through an online education company. Organizations like K12 and Connections Academy are good places to start, but it’s also worth reaching out to local school districts and community colleges. You will likely need prerequisite educational and work experience, and in some cases, you’ll need a teaching license. Average salary: salary and income will vary

22. Patent or intellectual property attorney

While some lawyers must spend their days in the office or in court, there are work-from-home opportunities across the profession, particularly in areas of the law such as patents and intellectual property, where administrative work can be done remotely. If this type of law is already your area of expertise, you could generate income without having to leave your home. Average salary: $156,000 annually

23. Peer-to-peer lender

Thanks to sites like LendingClub and Prosper, you can lend money to businesses or individuals, and, as an investor, make money on the paid interest of the loan. Regulations vary by state, so you’ll want to ensure you’re following the rules. Moreover, there are often minimum income requirements to become a lender, so you’ll need to prove your financial viability before you can count on peer-to-peer lending as a major source of passive income. Average salary: salary and income will vary

24. Photo or video editor

If you’re handy with a camera, you can work as a photographer or videographer. While some of the work may require attending events, editing headshots or wedding videos can typically be done from home, as long as you have access to a computer and the right software. You can even sell your own images or videos on sites like Foap, allowing you to operate your business from home. Average salary: $65,000 annually

25. Podcaster

Audio storytelling is still in demand, and if you already have an audience — or the tools to build one — you might consider launching a podcast from your home. This will require investing in microphones and editing software at the very least – and if you bring in a large volume of listeners, you can sell ads and generate a profit. Average salary: salary and income will vary

26. Product reviewer

If you have a knack for user design, you could earn a meaningful supplemental income as a product tester or reviewer. Many companies want to get feedback on their products (think: cosmetic products, tools, electronics, etc.) before they go to market. Typically, a company will pay you directly with money or with gift cards; you can also register to be a product reviewer on sites like UserTesting. Average salary: salary and income will vary

27. Repair and maintenance provider

Are you handy and known for fixing things — like bicycles, cars, computers, or small engines? Consider launching your own repair business. If you have garage space, tools, and the know-how, you can start a business where people bring damaged goods directly to your house. If you already have the resources to get going, the startup costs won’t be more than the initial marketing effort to generate awareness around your business. Average salary: $65,000 annually

28. Reseller of used and discounted goods

There is a never-ending supply of cheap and free goods on sites like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, not to mention yard-sale treasures and deeply discounted name-brand items such as Carhartt factory seconds or tags-on, second-hand store finds. If you purchase furniture, electronics, outdoor gear, and other goods at a bargain price, you can flip them at a high margin. Average salary: salary and income will vary

29. Seamstress or tailor

Many individuals need their clothing altered, and if you’re good with a needle and thread, there are a variety of ways to put your sewing skills to work. You could consider specializing in wedding dresses, suits, or even costume design. If you spend a little money on marketing, you could become the go-to alteration expert in your community. Average salary: $48,000 annually

30. SEO expert

Search engine optimization (SEO) is an important tactic for growing a business’s online presence. If you have experience growing digital traffic, particularly through SEO best practices, there are many remote job roles — full-time or part-time — where you can use your knowledge to help clients enhance their web presence and make money online. Average salary: $65,000 annually

31. Social media manager

Many businesses, organizations, and individuals need someone to manage their social media accounts. In some cases, clients may even need you to develop an entire strategy for them. If you already spend a lot of time on social media and you have past experience managing brand profiles, creating ad campaigns, and responding to comments and direct messages, you could start building a client list and work from anywhere you choose. Average salary: $65,000 annually

32. Stylist

If you have an eye for new fashion trends, you can make a living as a stylist from home. Thanks to virtual meetings and online ordering systems, you can help people assemble their wardrobes for work, special events, or everyday use. Using platforms like Nuuly and Rent the Runway, you can order multiple outfits, send them to the client, and advise them on which ones best fit their needs and personal style. Average salary: $40,000 annually

33. Survey taker

As with testing products, you can earn money by participating in opinion polls, answering questions about your shopping habits, or giving feedback on a business operation. Typically, you’ll be paid in gift cards or another incentive besides cash, but it can still be a lucrative side hustle. Average salary: salary and income will vary

Related: Can you Really Get Paid Completing Surveys?

34. Telephone triage nurse

If you’re a registered nurse, you could work for health insurers or health management companies like Humana, Aetna, and UnitedHealthcare. Even CVS Health offers customer support jobs, hiring nurses to remotely handle case management, treatment authorization, and patient education. Average salary: $88,000 annually

35. Transcriptionist

Transcription is a relatively simple process that involves listening to audio files such as lectures, medical dictations, or legal recordings and typing verbatim what you hear. It often requires only entry-level experience, but you must be a fast typist and produce error-free work. While some companies have turned to artificial intelligence for transcription services, many industries still prefer human transcriptionists to ensure accuracy. Average salary: $55,000 annually

36. Translator or interpreter

If you are fluent in multiple languages, you can start earning a living by translating documents or becoming an interpreter. While earning an American Translators Association certification is not a requirement for every job, it will lend your business credibility and help you attract clients in a variety of areas, including business and government, as well as individuals who need help navigating language barriers. Average salary: $57,000 annually

37. Travel agent or advisor

Although consumers have access to numerous travel sites that make trip planning easier, the process can still be time-consuming. That’s why there are still job opportunities for travel agents to scour the web for the best deals, share advice, or plan itineraries. Moreover, many people have turned to social media to share their travel hacks and earn supplemental income along the way. Average salary: $90,000 annually

38. Vehicle renter

Due to high fees, many people avoid rental car services when visiting a new place, and some choose not to own a car altogether. That’s part of the reason peer-to-peer rental car sites have become so popular. If you have a vehicle you don’t need all the time, you can rent it out to individuals and earn income while you’re at home and don’t need your car. Sites like Turo have built-in third-party liability, so you won’t have to worry about uninsured drivers behind the wheel. Average salary: salary and income will vary

39. Virtual assistant

If you’re organized and can handle duties such as replying to emails, managing the calendar, entering data, and assisting with social media, this type of role may be a great fit. With many offices shifting to fully remote work, virtual assistants no longer need to sit behind a desk all day. Average salary: $55,000 annually

40. Virtual public relations representative

Many businesses don’t have the budget for a dedicated chief marketing officer, a vice president of marketing, or even a public relations firm. But they may have the funds to hire a virtual public relations representative to take care of duties like promoting a business, writing press releases, interacting with the media, or managing a crisis. Average salary: $53,000 annually

41. Virtual recruiter

Businesses large and small often need help building a workforce, but they may not need someone on staff full-time. If you have recruiting and networking experience, you could help businesses scour the web for great job candidates, screen applicants, and become an integral part of the hiring process. Average salary: $65,000 annually

42. Virtual therapist

Are you already a licensed professional counselor (LPC)? If so, online therapy has grown rapidly in the past few years, allowing you to offer services to clients in an exclusively virtual format, online, if you choose. The opportunities to practice therapy online vary depending on your employer and clients’ healthcare, but it’s becoming increasingly accessible. However, if you plan to work with out-of-state clients, be sure to secure appropriate licenses. Average salary: $65,000 annually

43. Voice actor

If you have a golden voice or acting experience, you could make a living by recording scripts for commercials, promotional videos, and other audio files. If you’re just starting out, you might consider vocal training workshops, which will help you hone your craft and get leads on jobs. If you want to do this from home, you’ll need to invest in a home studio—including high-quality microphones and soundproofing equipment. Average salary: $90,000 annually

44. Website tester

Businesses want to make sure their websites are intuitive and easy to navigate. As such, they’ll assign instructions for people to follow to test the user experience. You can work with websites like Test.io and become a freelance tester for a variety of digital products, including new websites as well as smartphone apps. To qualify, most companies will expect you to have computer skills specific to their industry or a track record of using similar products. Average salary: $65,000 annually

45. Business development manager

Are you a naturally gifted salesperson who has an eye for relationships? A work-from-home business development manager role might be for you. In these positions, you may develop business plans, find new clients, manage existing accounts, and, yes, achieve sales objectives. To increase revenue, strong sales and client relations skills are essential. Average salary: According to FlexJobs, the average salary range is between $51K to $134K annually

46. Computer support specialist

Also known as computer technicians or IT specialists, you set up and maintain computers, software, and networks for individuals and businesses. Specifically, you provide support via phone, email, chat, and remote assistance software. The job outlook is expected to grow by 6 percent from 2023 to 2033, according to Coursera. If you’re tech-savvy and enjoy helping others, this may be a perfect option for you. Average salary: $49,466 annually

47. AI training

Whether you believe it or not, AI can be made smarter. To learn and improve, modern AI models need human input. Companies such as Outlier.ai hire people to evaluate AI prompts and responses. As the generative AI market is expected to grow to $1.3 trillion over the next decade, there are many opportunities to generate revenue online in this field. Average salary: salary and income will vary

48. Traveler host

Do you have an extra room, a guest house, or even an entire property you are not using? Why not turn it into an income source? By becoming a traveler host, you can rent out your space to visitors. As a host, you’ll need to be comfortable hosting guests in a clean, welcoming setting. Also, be prepared to clean up after stays and to respond to urgent needs. To get started, you can use platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo. Average salary: salary and income will vary

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In 2024, high-income taxpayers were more than twice as likely to be audited compared to previous audit cycles.

What are the most common audit red flags to avoid? Searching for 2025 information online yields little actionable guidance, even in industry journals. There are a host of articles explaining low-income audits, such as those incorrectly filing for the Earned Income Tax Credit. However, middle-class, high-income taxpayers and business owners often struggle to maintain compliance with limited publicly available guidance.

As the CEO of Dimov Tax, I see audit notices every day. From our experience working with thousands of clients, my team and I have identified clear patterns. If you are a high-earning business owner or leader, here are the primary triggers to avoid and strategies to reduce your audit risk.

If you file Schedule C, expect higher scrutiny

Schedule C is the IRS form used by single-member LLCs, sole proprietors, contractors, freelancers and anyone receiving a 1099-NEC. Audit rates are significantly lower for S corporations or C corporations, but Schedule C returns remain prime targets.

Whether your side gig involves legal consulting or you work full-time as a contract telehealth provider, the IRS pays close attention because Schedule C returns are easy to self-prepare. Expense overstatements, often unintentional, are common and frequently trigger audits.

High-review expense categories

Every year, social media influencers promote tax strategies that should be approached cautiously. Past examples include attempts to write off luxury vehicles under the “6,000-pound truck rule” or aggressive real estate syndication deductions, which often ended in audits or lawsuits.

Common expense categories that frequently raise IRS eyebrows include:

• Automotive expenses
• Meals and entertainment
• Rent (studio, vehicle, or office)
• Travel
• Luxury goods

Show a profit two to three years out of five to avoid the “hobby” risk

Consistent losses can trigger the IRS to question whether your business activity is legitimate. A simple rule: your business, freelance, or contract activity should show a profit at least two to three years out of five.

Benchmark your ratios

The IRS compares your expenses and income ratios against industry norms. If a specific line item is far above the historical average, it may flag your return. For example, self-employed consultants with $300,000 in income normally report 15% in software expenses; a 60% software expense could trigger scrutiny.

Importantly, this risk isn’t limited to the ultra-wealthy. Even individuals with modest side gigs, like rideshare drivers, can face audits. Schedule C filers remain a notable exception in audit trends.

Beware of mortgage interest caps

Mortgage interest deductions have caused frequent audit issues. Deductibility depends on when your loan originated:

• Mortgages originated after December 15, 2017: interest is deductible only on up to $750,000 of acquisition debt ($375,000 if married filing separately).
• Mortgages originated on or before December 15, 2017: the prior $1,000,000 limit still applies ($500,000 if married filing separately).

Interest above these thresholds is non-deductible. Review your Schedule A to ensure limits are correctly applied—many IRS notices are triggered by this issue.

Take appropriate real estate losses against W-2 income

Social media strategies often suggest high-paid W-2 earners can reduce taxes by purchasing properties for short-term rentals and claiming large depreciation deductions. Others suggest claiming “real estate professional” status to offset W-2 income.

Even if these strategies are valid, the IRS scrutinizes them closely. Cost segregation, accelerated depreciation and bonus depreciation strategies require meticulous documentation.

Residency pitfalls: addresses, withholding and multi-state filing

Remote work and increased mobility have made state tax filings more complicated than ever. Using the wrong address on a W-2, 1099 or other forms can trigger significant tax liabilities.

Common scenarios we see include:

• Using a parent’s or friend’s address while working remotely.
• Receiving mail at a P.O. Box or a previous residence.
• Keeping an old address on employer records after relocating.

Even seemingly small mistakes can have major consequences. When a state sees income linked to an address within its jurisdiction, it can pull your full federal transcript and attempt to tax all income earned across every location — sometimes resulting in six-figure tax bills.

Tips to avoid costly errors:

• Confirm your correct state of residence and review all employment and financial records.
• Double-check addresses on all W-2s, 1099s, and other tax forms.
• Monitor pay stubs throughout the year. Taxpayers sometimes pay the wrong state for months—or even the full year—with no easy recourse. In one case we handled, a taxpayer accidentally paid $200,000 in state taxes that could not be recovered.

If there’s any chance a form or income source is associated with a state where you no longer live, contact your tax professional immediately to review corrective actions and prevent unnecessary liabilities.

High-risk strategies flag your return

Certain niche strategies carry higher audit risk, including:

• Conservation easements
• Captive insurance companies
• Charitable contribution schemes
• Complex insurance or trust structures

These strategies often result in audits that are upheld, leading to penalties, back taxes and professional fees. Always consult a neutral, experienced tax professional before pursuing these approaches.

Conclusion

Being audited is not inevitable. Filing an extension may reduce your risk because the IRS fills its audit quota early in the year. Filing later after making estimated payments may reduce the likelihood of being flagged.

Meticulous documentation, accurate reporting and professional review are the most reliable ways to reduce audit risk.

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Most companies don’t have a data problem. They have a trust problem.

At AWS re:Invent last December, one thing was impossible to ignore: the technical excuses for not using data are gone. The infrastructure is there. Security, compliance and governance tools now allow organizations to share information safely without freezing decision-making. The challenge isn’t technology anymore — it’s culture.

AI was everywhere, but I wasn’t focused on product launches. I was looking at how companies think about data itself: how it’s shared, governed and ultimately turned into decisions. And across conversations with executives and sessions on security and compliance, a pattern emerged: the technical limitations that once justified locking data down have largely been solved. What remains difficult is human. Alignment, trust and confidence inside organizations are now the true barriers.

Why everything counts as data now

For decades, data was narrowly defined: transactional records, CRM entries, ERP metrics and the digital signals of clicks, purchases or usage. Everything else — emails, Slack messages, survey feedback, customer reviews, social signals, operational workflows — was considered noise or outside the data conversation. Sharing across teams was slow and risky. Locking information away became the default.

That mindset is no longer sufficient. AI now makes it possible to extract value from almost any signal. Internal communications, operational metrics and customer sentiment can all inform decisions. The scope of what counts as data has expanded dramatically. The posture a company takes toward sharing and using this information now determines its competitive edge.

The human problem is bigger than the technical one

Executives repeatedly report the same barrier: cultural friction, not technological gaps, prevents data-driven organizations. Teams hoard information. Departments compete for control. Leadership struggles to create alignment.

The organizations that thrive are the ones that:

• Make sharing the default, not the exception.
• Provide visibility into data assets across teams.
• Establish controlled collaboration protocols.
• Reward trust and transparency over internal competition.

Technology alone can’t solve these issues. AI won’t force people to cooperate. Governance frameworks won’t create trust. Leaders must address the human side first.

How business leaders can act now

You don’t need a massive overhaul overnight, but you do need a shift in mindset and process:

1. Understand the value of your data. Most organizations collect far more than they actively use. Sales, HR, operations, survey results, reviews, and digital signals all carry actionable insights. AI can help identify where value exists—but only if you’re paying attention.

2. Recognize that the technology is ready. You don’t need to bet on a single vendor. Between AWS, Microsoft, Google and a growing ecosystem of specialized tools, secure and compliant data sharing is possible today. The barrier isn’t capability — it’s willingness.

3. Focus on culture and mindset. Set clear expectations that data sharing is required and rewarded. Clarify how information will be used and protected. Trust must be intentionally built and reinforced.

4. Act now. The shift toward AI-enabled, data-driven organizations is accelerating. Companies that engage early, establish best practices and shape how data is used will define their market. Those who wait will struggle to catch up.

The technical barriers are gone. The companies that win will be those that solve the human problem first.

A founder’s takeaway

If you run a business, this is not just a technical challenge — it’s a leadership test. You don’t need every dashboard connected or every system unified overnight. You do need clarity on what information matters, a culture that encourages sharing and processes that make it safe to collaborate.

The organizations that treat this as optional will fall behind. The ones that engage now will shape the rules, drive faster decisions, and create value from their data before anyone else even realizes it exists.

AI is ready. Infrastructure is ready. The human problem is what will separate winners from laggards.

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The Supreme Court ruled Friday that President Trump exceeded his authority by imposing tariffs without Congress. In a 6-3 ruling, the court found that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, which Trump used to impose many of his tariffs, “does not authorize the President to impose tariffs.” Chief Justice John Roberts delivered the majority opinion. Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito, and Brett Kavanaugh dissented.

The ruling strikes down tariffs that generated the majority of U.S. tariff revenue last year, including “reciprocal” tariffs and duties related to fentanyl trafficking from Mexico, Canada, and China. The court noted that no president before Trump had ever used the statute to impose tariffs of this magnitude and scope. To justify such powers, Trump must “point to clear congressional authorization,” the court wrote. “He cannot.”

The big question now is refunds. The ruling was silent on whether tariffs already paid must be refunded to importers. Companies could be eligible for payments totaling hundreds of billions of dollars, but the refund process—including who gets paid, when, and how—will be decided by lower courts. In his dissent, Kavanaugh warned the refund process “is likely to be a ‘mess.’”

Read more

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<div class="tw:border-b tw:border-slate-200 tw:pb-4">
<h2 class="tw:mt-0 tw:mb-1 tw:text-2xl tw:font-heading">Key Takeaways</h2>
<ul class="tw:font-normal tw:font-serif tw:text-base tw:marker:text-slate-400">
<li>Proactive and transparent communication between entrepreneurs and their board of directors is crucial for preempting surprises and fostering trust.</li>
<li>Leveraging the board as a strategic resource can provide valuable insights and networks to help address company challenges effectively.</li>
<li>Maintaining professionalism and efficiency in board meetings demonstrates respect for directors’ time and encourages their engagement.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p>The relationship between an entrepreneur and their <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/10-tips-for-forming-a-board-of-directors/223413" rel="" target="_self">board of directors</a> (BOD) is central to a venture-funded company’s success. A board is not simply a formal reporting structure; it is a governing body created by law and investment agreements. Entrepreneurs (and company executives) should focus on forging a productive partnership that leverages the board’s expertise, network and oversight to benefit the business.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/if-you-want-a-good-relationship-with-your-board-you-need/309889" rel="" target="_self">Maintaining this relationship</a> requires focused, proactive effort. Companies that treat board members as genuine resources, while aligning all stakeholders’ focus on creating value, are best positioned to succeed. Here are the steps entrepreneurs should take to cultivate a strong board relationship, turning the board into a strategic advantage rather than a mere oversight body.</p>

<p><style type="text/css"></style><i>Sign up for How Success Happens and learn from well-known business leaders and celebrities, uncovering the shifts, strategies and lessons that powered their rise. <a href="https://info.entrepreneur.com/hsh?utm_campaign=Web-Visitors&utm_source=Article&utm_medium=Text-CTA" target="_blank">Get it in your inbox.</a></i></p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Fostering alignment through communication and transparency</h2>

<p>One of the most critical elements in building alignment with your board is proactive, <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/how-to-create-a-transparent-workplace/476215" rel="" target="_self">transparent communication</a>. Business owners should not wait for scheduled board meetings to surface major issues. Surprises can significantly erode confidence. Instead, hold ongoing conversations with key board members between meetings. Many founders schedule monthly touchpoints to keep them regularly updated.</p>

<p>For example, in a B2B enterprise sales model with long sales cycles, you might share progress on KPIs such as sales funnel health and revenue projections.</p>

<p>Alternatively, if your company is rapidly developing new products or features, monthly touchpoints can focus on progress toward key milestones such as release timelines, beta feedback or customer adoption metrics. Keeping board members <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/how-a-board-of-directors-can-springboard-startup-success/324445" rel="" target="_self">informed</a> on whether milestones are on track, slipping or blocked ensures they understand the context of delays and can provide support, including introductions to technical advisors, candidate referrals or simply alignment on revised expectations.</p>

<p>These recurring updates ensure your board members are never surprised in a formal BOD meeting because issues and progress will have already been discussed and addressed.</p>

<p>In a similar fashion, teams should also regularly share the small wins with their board on the path to big achievements. This will help board members understand the context of large projects and the work that goes into each one. In turn, the board develops stronger pattern recognition for the critical steps involved in reaching goals, which will result in their being able to help steer the business in the right direction.</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Leveraging the board as a strategic resource</h2>

<p>A healthy <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/7-habits-of-highly-effective-boards/423064" rel="" target="_self">board relationship</a> goes beyond a reporting structure. Directors should instead be engaged as strategic partners who can help address specific challenges. Their networks are invaluable for introductions to potential customers, talent or partners.</p>

<p>In venture-funded companies, investor-directors also have insights from their many different portfolio companies. They can offer insights informed by this broader market experience. The key is to approach them with specific, well-framed “asks” rather than vague problems: provide background on the challenge, share what you’ve already tried and state clearly what help you need.</p>

<p>This preparation enables directors to provide targeted, actionable advice. Remember: Your board wants you to succeed.</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Maintaining professionalism and efficiency</h2>

<p>Respecting directors’ time is another way to build engagement. Your board meetings should be professional, start and end on time and stay focused on the most important issues. Discussions should have the <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/know-your-audience-tips-for-tailored-communications/380271" rel="" target="_self">right level of detail</a> — enough to frame the issue and enable smart decision-making, but not mired in tangents or minutiae.</p>

<p>This discipline shows that the entrepreneur values the board’s expertise and time, further reinforcing engagement.</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Driving engagement and value creation</h2>

<p>Boards add the most value when they understand context, not just raw data. Don’t just give them a dashboard to look at. Instead, business owners should frame the data they present with contextual, helpful <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/how-data-storytelling-can-level-up-your-publicity-campaign/436086" rel="" target="_self">narratives</a>. What’s driving the numbers, what risks exist and where is support needed?</p>

<p>In addition, rotating “deep dive” topics across meetings gives directors visibility into key areas of the business. These detailed explorations provide board members with a solid understanding of how all the interconnected components of the company and the various teams work together. This, in turn, empowers the board to offer valuable suggestions for improvement, drawing on their experiences with other companies that might have faced a similar problem or that excel in certain areas where your company is challenged.</p>

<p>This collaborative approach draws on board members’ extensive experience with other companies and creates a feedback loop for improvement.</p>

<p>Ultimately, remember that the board views the company through the lens of an investment. <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/why-ceo-transitions-fail-and-how-boards-can-stop-it/491431" rel="" target="_self">Alignment</a> around increasing company value is what keeps everyone working toward the same goal.</p>

<p>Building and sustaining a strong relationship with your board of directors is an ongoing commitment to transparency, engagement and respect. By communicating proactively, leveraging directors as strategic resources and keeping meetings disciplined and value-focused, entrepreneurs can transform their board from a compliance requirement into a powerful ally.</p>

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<div class="tw:border-b tw:border-slate-200 tw:pb-4">
<h2 class="tw:mt-0 tw:mb-1 tw:text-2xl tw:font-heading">Key Takeaways</h2>
<ul class="tw:font-normal tw:font-serif tw:text-base tw:marker:text-slate-400">

<li>Raad wanted to develop an influencer marketing agency focused on alignment and transparency.</li>

<li>He’s grown the business to nearly 100 employees and tens of millions in annual brand deals. </li>

</ul>
</div>

<p><em>This Side Hustle Spotlight Q&A features Ted Raad, 37, the Nashville, Tennessee-based founder of influencer marketing and management company </em><a href="https://www.trendcompanies.com/"><em>Trend</em></a><em>. The agency represents more than 130 creator clients and secures approximately $80 million in brand deals annually. Responses have been edited for length and clarity. </em></p>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="640" height="800" src="https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Ted-Raad_Press-Photo.jpg" alt="Ted Raad" class="wp-image-415843" srcset="https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Ted-Raad_Press-Photo.jpg 640w, https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Ted-Raad_Press-Photo.jpg?resize=240,300 240w, https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Ted-Raad_Press-Photo.jpg?resize=180,225 180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Image Credit: Trend. Ted Raad. </figcaption></figure>

<p><em>Sign up for the </em>Money Makers<em> newsletter to get weekly, expert-backed tips to help you earn more money — from real people who founded and scaled successful businesses. <a href="https://info.entrepreneur.com/money-makers-newsletter?utm_campaign=Web-Visitors&utm_source=Article&utm_medium=Text-CTA&__hstc=229039816.d9bfdb05c12761dd5b157594bce0a37d.1769196784288.1771351707588.1771353785208.48&__hssc=229039816.2.1771353785208&__hsfp=306713dc70911697c6b1c3211ab5a3b6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Get it in your inbox.</a></em></p>

<p><strong>What was your day job or primary occupation when you started your side hustle?<br></strong>I was working at Hewlett-Packard in IT Mergers and Acquisitions. I was reviewing contracts and <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/how-to-master-negotiations-and-make-winning-deals/467908">negotiating deals</a>, so that part of the business was familiar to me when I started Trend.</p>

<p><strong>When did you start your side hustle, and where did you find the inspiration for it?<br></strong>I started Trend on January 7, 2019. The inspiration came from my wife, Dede, who was growing as a creator at the time. She signed with an agency that pushed campaigns that didn’t align with her brand. When she declined those deals, the relationship became uncomfortable. I saw a gap in the industry, and I wanted to build something that prioritized alignment, <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/how-to-create-a-transparent-workplace/476215">transparency</a> and doing what was right for the creator.</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-creator-rates-and-deal-structures">Understanding creator rates and deal structures</h2>

<p><strong> What were some of the first steps you took to get your side hustle off the ground? How much money did it take to launch?<br></strong>I started by working with my wife and a few of her friends to understand <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/how-much-should-you-charge-to-create-social-media-content/471829">creator rates</a>, brand expectations and how deals were structured. I worked with a lawyer to put contracts in place, signed my first creators and began building brand relationships. My only startup costs were a laptop and internet. It was fully bootstrapped.</p>

<p><strong>Are there any free or paid resources that were especially helpful in starting and running this business?<br></strong>The most helpful paid resource was hiring an <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/how-to-set-goals-with-an-executive-coach-to-unlock-all-of/395847">executive coach</a>. Having someone with experience helped me think through hiring, time management and financial decisions. It gave me confidence and clarity during the early growth stages.</p>

<p><strong>If you could go back and change one process or approach, what would it be?<br></strong>I waited too long to hire. I tried to do everything myself to stay lean. Even when revenue started coming in, I delayed bringing on help. <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/hiring-and-orienting-a-new-employee-entrepreneurcom/80126">Hiring</a> earlier would have saved time, stress and burnout. Once I hired strong people who believed in what we were building, the business changed quickly.</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-navigating-challenges-with-confidence-and-communication">Navigating challenges with confidence and communication</h2>

<p><strong>What is something particularly challenging or surprising about this type of business?</strong><br>There is no <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/people-are-over-the-9-5-and-embracing-this-buzzy-workplace-trend-instead">9 to 5</a>; you are always on. Early mornings, late nights, weekends. You are serving creators and brands constantly. You are never really the boss. You work for your clients, and you have to be confident enough to guide them while always acting in their best interest.</p>

<p><strong>Can you recall a time when something went very wrong? How did you fix it?</strong><br>Early on, I took on too many creators without enough internal support. <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/14-proven-ways-to-improve-your-communication-skills/300466">Communication</a> slowed and quality suffered. I owned the mistake, had honest conversations with clients and changed how we operate. That experience is why we now maintain one of the lowest talent-to-manager ratios in the industry. I won’t let that happen again.</p>

<p><strong>How long did it take to see consistent monthly revenue? What does growth look like now?<br></strong>It took about six months to see consistent revenue, largely due to 60 to 90 day payment terms. Early growth was fast, around 200% year over year. Today, <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/your-sales-team-might-be-slowing-down-your-growth/502371">growth</a> is more consistent at 20% to 25% annually, with a strong focus on reinvesting in the team and long-term stability. I’m extremely proud that Trend has grown into a multi-division company approaching 100 employees with offices in Nashville and Houston. </p>

<p><a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/money-finance/what-is-revenue-definition-how-to-calculate-it-more/441854">Revenue</a> has increased at double-digit rates year-over-year, and our creator roster now tops 130 active creators, securing roughly $80 million in brand deals a year. Trend Social, our brand division, more than doubled in size in the past year, while Trend Elevate and Trend Athletes have expanded opportunities for both creators and brands. Beyond financial growth, I have focused on building a strong leadership team and systems that allow the company to scale while keeping our creator-first culture intact.</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-a-simple-idea-to-a-thriving-business">From a simple idea to a thriving business</h2>

<p><strong>What do you enjoy most about running this business?<br></strong>Finding new opportunities for creators beyond traditional <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/sponsorship-expert-shares-advice-for-creators/489127">brand deals</a> and helping them build additional income through podcasts, investing in brands, media opportunities or projects that extend beyond social platforms. Overall, I’m most proud of building a company that reflects my values while staying grounded in my family and faith. Trend started as a simple idea and has grown into a thriving business with nearly 100 employees and multiple divisions, but what matters most to me is creating a culture where people feel genuinely supported and where our success drives <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/for-real-impact-entrepreneurs-must-do-more-than-solve-big/293572">real impact</a> in the community. I also take immense pride in raising three kids with my wife, Dede — with a fourth on the way — and in keeping family at the center of every decision, even as the company continues to grow.</p>

<p><strong>What is your best piece of specific, actionable business advice?<br></strong>Be realistic before you start. Understand what revenue actually looks like and how long it takes to get there. Once you commit, <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/starting-a-business/why-going-all-in-is-the-only-option-for-entrepreneurs-who/497310">go all in</a>. Not part-time effort, full commitment. Mentors help later, but early success comes from knowing your daily role and executing consistently.</p>



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<div class="tw:border-b tw:border-slate-200 tw:pb-4">
<h2 class="tw:mt-0 tw:mb-1 tw:text-2xl tw:font-heading">Key Takeaways</h2>
<ul class="tw:font-normal tw:font-serif tw:text-base tw:marker:text-slate-400">
<li>Every quarter, I spend one hour writing down what truly matters — a simple reset that keeps me focused.</li>
<li>That one-page ritual guides my decisions, protects my priorities and prevents burnout.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p>Most <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/why-founders-experience-time-differently-than-everyone-else/486514" rel="" target="_self">founders</a> don’t burn out because they work too hard. They burn out because they never stop to decide what actually matters.</p>

<p>When you’re running a company, urgency becomes your operating system. There’s always another hire to make, product to ship, fire to put out or metric to improve. If you’re not careful, you wake up one day successful — but not necessarily building the life you intended.</p>

<p>For nearly 10 years running Luxury Presence, I’ve relied on a simple quarterly ritual to prevent that drift. It takes one hour. One sheet of paper. And it’s been the single most stabilizing habit in my career.</p>

<p>I call it the “One-Page Plan.”</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What goes on the page</h2>

<p>The structure is simple:</p>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><b>Purpose:</b> Why you do what you do</li><li><b>Values:</b> What matters most</li><li><b>BHAG (Big, Hairy, Audacious Goal):</b> Your long-term moonshot</li><li><b>Five-year vision:</b> Who you want to become across five themes (health, relationships, career, learning, contribution)</li><li><b>One-year goals:</b> The habits and outcomes that move you forward</li><li><b>Quarterly goals:</b> The specific commitments for the next 90 days</li></ul>

<p>Most of the document doesn’t change much. Your purpose shouldn’t shift every quarter. Your five-year direction might evolve slightly, but it remains steady.</p>

<p>The quarterly section is where reality meets ambition. That’s where big ideas turn into measurable commitments.</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why most founders skip this — and why that’s a mistake</h2>

<p>Many founders resist this kind of planning because they equate structure with rigidity. They want to stay opportunistic. Flexible. Open.</p>

<p>But here’s the problem: if you don’t decide what matters in advance, the market decides for you.</p>

<p>Without intentionality, you default to:</p>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>What’s loudest</li><li>What’s newest</li><li>What feels urgent</li><li>What boosts short-term metrics</li></ul>

<p>That’s how founders drift — not from lack of ambition, but from lack of alignment.</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why the one-page plan works</h2>

<p>This exercise does three things most founders never make time for.</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">It forces reflection</h2>

<p>Founders are wired to chase what’s next. Very few stop to recognize progress. Writing this plan every quarter forces me to look back before I look forward. It creates space to acknowledge wins instead of constantly moving the goalpost.</p>

<p>That alone reduces <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/living/how-to-escape-entrepreneurial-burnout-when-you-cant-quit/471967" rel="" target="_self">burnout</a>.</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">It creates honest accountability</h2>

<p>It’s easy to say something is important. It’s harder to write it down and review it 90 days later.</p>

<p>Every quarter, I pull out the previous plan and confront the truth: Did I prioritize what I said mattered? Or did I let the urgent crowd out the important?</p>

<p>The paper doesn’t lie.</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">It protects balance</h2>

<p>Business is one category on my page. It doesn’t come first.</p>

<p>Family and friends do.</p>

<p>There have been quarters where I exceeded <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/revenue-growth-means-nothing-if-you-ignore-this-key-metric/501718" rel="" target="_self">revenue targets</a> but ignored personal commitments. The review process exposes that imbalance early — before success in one area silently erodes another.</p>

<p>Without this system, I wouldn’t notice the tradeoffs until they were costly.</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What this looks like in practice</h2>

<p>One of the identities in my five-year vision is simple: become a writer.</p>

<p>Not “write occasionally.” Not “post when inspired.” Become a writer.</p>

<p>To support that, my one-year goal is to publish consistently on LinkedIn and launch a personal newsletter. My quarterly goal for Q4 2025 is straightforward: write and send the first three editions.</p>

<p>That’s the commitment.</p>

<p>If January arrives and those newsletters aren’t sent, I don’t get to blame busyness. I get clarity. I chose other priorities.</p>

<p>That awareness is powerful.</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The real benefit: deciding in advance</h2>

<p>The biggest benefit of the One-Page Plan isn’t <a href="http://google.com/search?q=entrepreneur.com+productivity&sca_esv=784db34c22f0db79&sxsrf=ANbL-n7NE6nfR8XpgR-_bg23HPkI25m3hw%3A1771457905607&ei=cU2Wab_oJI-gptQP4f2KmQ0&ved=0ahUKEwj_5Mr5muSSAxUPkIkEHeG-ItMQ4dUDCBM&uact=5&oq=entrepreneur.com+productivity&gs_lp=Egxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAiHWVudHJlcHJlbmV1ci5jb20gcHJvZHVjdGl2aXR5MgUQIRigATIFECEYoAEyBRAhGKABMgUQIRigAUipAlAAWABwAHgAkAEAmAGPAaABjwGqAQMwLjG4AQPIAQD4AQL4AQGYAgGgApMBmAMAkgcDMC4xoAffBLIHAzAuMbgHkwHCBwMwLjHIBwGACAA&sclient=gws-wiz-serp">productivity</a>. It’s pre-decision.</p>

<p>You define success before you’re tired, reactive or overwhelmed.</p>

<p>You choose your priorities before the quarter begins.</p>

<p>That way, when opportunities show up — new partnerships, new initiatives, new distractions — you can evaluate them against something stable.</p>

<p>Does this move me toward what I said matters? Or is it just exciting?</p>

<p>That filter alone has saved me from misaligned growth more than once.</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to start</h2>

<p>At the end of this quarter, block one uninterrupted hour.</p>

<p>Turn off your phone. Close your laptop. Grab a blank sheet of paper.</p>

<p>Start big:</p>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Why do you do what you do?</li><li>What kind of person are you trying to become?</li><li>What does five years from now look like across health, relationships, career and contribution?</li></ul>

<p>Then narrow:</p>

<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Three to five goals for the next year</li><li>Concrete commitments for the next 90 days</li></ul>

<p>When the quarter ends, review it honestly. Celebrate what you achieved. Learn from what you didn’t. Then write the next one.</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Final thought</h2>

<p>Running a company is hard. Running one while staying healthy, grounded and connected to the people you care about is harder.</p>

<p>The One-Page Plan won’t eliminate chaos. It won’t prevent hard quarters, layoffs or market corrections.</p>

<p>But it will make sure you’re building on purpose.</p>

<p>And in a world where everything is urgent, that clarity might be the highest-leverage hour you invest all quarter.</p>



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<div class="tw:border-b tw:border-slate-200 tw:pb-4">
<h2 class="tw:mt-0 tw:mb-1 tw:text-2xl tw:font-heading">Key Takeaways</h2>
<ul class="tw:font-normal tw:font-serif tw:text-base tw:marker:text-slate-400">
<li>The American dream is shifting. Many of today’s workers are motivated less by ladder climbing and more by sharing their expertise and making a decent living while doing it. </li>
<li>I built a solution to help creators get paid for the work they were already doing. It’s a one-stop shop that removes the friction that prevents them from building true online growth.</li>
<li>The most successful creators understand the specific need their brand fulfills and share their journey authentically, which helps build a real connection with their audience.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<p>As an Asian-American kid growing up to an immigrant mom in North Carolina, I was taught to follow the rules (no exceptions). I was a Boy Scout, graduated top of my class and was hired by <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/he-doesnt-regret-taking-a-150000-pay-cut-to-become-a-ceo/499050" rel="" target="_self">Goldman Sachs</a> immediately after graduating undergrad. I had followed what I thought was the “right” path. I was living in the greatest city in the world (New York City, of course) and working at one of the best companies in the world … but none of it felt right.</p>

<p>Like many others in corporate America, I <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/starting-a-business/how-to-break-free-from-the-corporate-grind-to-pursue-your/473668" rel="" target="_self">walked away</a> from the high-powered banking job. Not because I couldn’t do it, but because it wasn’t <i><b>my</b></i> dream. Spending 100 hours a week working for someone else felt like living in the wrong skin.</p>

<p>After leaving Goldman, I went to Stanford Business School and started thinking about what’s next. Like everyone else in 2020, I was making stupid dance videos on TikTok when I realized I could also use social media to promote myself, my skills and whatever job I would land next.</p>

<p>Instead, what I found was much more meaningful: an online <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/science-technology/how-to-build-a-lasting-career-in-the-creator-economy/482421" rel="" target="_self">creator community</a> authentically sharing their talents with the world.</p>

<p>The passion of these creator-entrepreneurs, the businesses they build and the way they bring people together through their shared digital community is, I believe, the essence of today’s American Dream. Regardless of generational differences, the American workers I talk to are (for the most part) no longer motivated by ladder climbing; they — we — are motivated by sharing our knowledge and expertise with others, and also making a decent living while doing it.</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dare to dream</h2>

<p>What I also found among fellow creators was a web of disparate, broken systems, a misunderstanding of how to build true online growth, or even how to create an <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/how-to-launch-your-first-email-marketing-campaign-and-get/317331" rel="" target="_self">email campaign</a>. Everything felt harder than it needed to be, none of the tools connected, and much of it was overwhelming (and overpriced) for new entrepreneurs.</p>

<p>I had a bit of programming experience, so I created and launched the first version of my company, <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/starting-a-business/why-this-garyvees-challenge-could-be-the-fastest-way-for/497373" rel="" target="_self">Stan</a>, in 2021. The beta launch was very basic but brought together many of the pain points my fellow creators and I were experiencing. We made it a one-stop shop, with everything a creator needs conveniently packaged and designed in one place.</p>

<p>Next, I convinced a few fellow content creators to let me set up their online brand presence, and the first creator saw an instant sale of their online course (for $999 no less) overnight — with no marketing and no other outreach except the creator’s own work up until that point.</p>

<p>The idea was simple: Make it easier for people to get paid for the work they were already doing. Stan wasn’t built to teach creators how to <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/starting-a-business/5-proven-strategies-for-turning-your-knowledge-into-income/479160" rel="" target="_self">monetize</a>. It was built to remove the friction altogether.</p>

<p>The business model proved to fill a unique gap in the marketplace, and building Stan became my full-time job. Today, five years in, we have more than 80,000 active creators on the platform, who have collectively made more than $400 million, and we even have backing from <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/starting-a-business/why-this-garyvees-challenge-could-be-the-fastest-way-for/497373" rel="" target="_self">Gary Vaynerchuk</a> and Steven Bartlett.</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The everyday entrepreneur</h2>

<p>What I’ve seen over the past five years is the <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/science-technology/how-to-build-a-lasting-career-in-the-creator-economy/482421" rel="" target="_self">creator economy</a> becoming the default path for anyone looking to build something of their own. What defines a “creator” in 2026 can be anyone from a fitness coach, a special education teacher or a mechanic. These “non-traditional” influencers are moving into creatorship to <i><b>truly</b></i> own their brand, build their community and monetize what they know on their own terms.</p>

<p>It’s these everyday entrepreneurs, the ones working toward their dream and taking their ideas to the next level, that continue to motivate me and my team. Among these new creators, the ones who succeed typically have two key things:</p>

<ol class="wp-block-list"><li><p><b>They understand the needs their personal and professional brand fulfills:</b> The most successful creators have clearly identified a gap in the market for their product or services and identified how they can help fill that need.</p></li><li><p><b>They share their experience authentically:</b> You have to believe in your dream to build it, so why not share your story and experience <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/10-ways-to-be-an-authentic-entrepreneur-and-sell-your-best/403625" rel="" target="_self">authentically</a>? Being true to yourself helps audiences connect with you and understand the “why” behind what you do.</p></li></ol>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Do good, and do well</h2>

<p>When it comes to my “why,” like many other immigrant children in the U.S., I grew up with very little. While working at Goldman, I realized that I <i><b>needed</b></i> my work to be <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/living/how-to-find-long-term-career-fulfillment-in-todays-world/475331" rel="" target="_self">fulfilling</a> (no, working at an investment bank didn’t check that box). I wanted my work to be meaningful and to give back to the greater good in some way.</p>

<p>Through my current work with Stan and the creator community, I’m able to directly help others build their dreams and monetize their businesses, turning their creative <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/starting-a-business/make-money-doing-what-you-love-how-to-monetize-your/470088" rel="" target="_self">passions</a> into a livable wage.</p>

<p>While many are still burning the candle at both ends, creating their businesses while also being parents, caregivers, partners and working one, two (or even three) other jobs, they’re working towards their dream of a successful future business built on their experience and creativity. If that doesn’t sound like “living the dream,” I don’t know what does.</p>



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<div class="tw:border-b tw:border-slate-200 tw:pb-4">
<h2 class="tw:mt-0 tw:mb-1 tw:text-2xl tw:font-heading">Key Takeaways</h2>
<ul class="tw:font-normal tw:font-serif tw:text-base tw:marker:text-slate-400">

<li>X runs as a lean, startup‑style operation with about 30 core product engineers, very few managers, and a flat structure, according to X’s head of product, Nikita Bier.</li>

<li>Most individual contributors report directly to CEO Elon Musk.</li>

<li>Musk holds weekly reviews where engineers present one or two slides on what they shipped, and he gives them direct feedback on their work.</li>

</ul>
</div>

<p>Reporting to <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/elon-musks-xai-just-laid-off-500-workers-who-trained-grok/497128">Elon Musk</a> at <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/elon-musk-sunsets-twitter-domain-completes-rebrand-to-xcom/474319">X</a> means operating in a small, flat organization where the CEO is <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/airbnb-ceo-chesky-is-a-hands-on-manager-with-50-employees/496317">effectively the direct manager</a>. For Nikita Bier, X’s head of product, <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/ex-twitter-worker-awarded-600k-for-unfair-dismissal/478536">the job is both difficult</a> and “a lot of fun.” </p>

<p>On a recent episode of the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tF4j4LB-2rk"><em>Out of Office</em> podcast</a>, Bier contrasted life at X with his work at other <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/science-technology/fintech-is-evolving-and-investors-should-pay-attention/500854">Silicon Valley</a> giants <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/meta-is-reportedly-planning-to-raise-prices-on-a-popular/500748">like Meta</a> and <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/science-technology/danny-devito-discord-and-the-future-of-social-media/379290">Discord</a>. Bier characterized X as “essentially operating like a startup,” with 30 core engineers, plus two designers, a couple of product managers and himself. The organization is remarkably “flat” with many individual contributors reporting directly to Musk. </p>

<p>“The size of the engineering team is equivalent to a feature when <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/mark-zuckerberg-reveals-the-mindset-behind-metas-wins/480054">I worked at Facebook</a>,” he said, emphasizing that there are “very few managers.”</p>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" height="710" width="1024" src="https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Nikita-Bier-GettyImages-180205405.jpg?w=1024" alt="SAN FRANCISCO, CA – SEPTEMBER 09: Nikita Bier attends TechCruch Disrupt SF 2013 at San Francisco Design Center on September 9, 2013 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Steve Jennings/Getty Images for TechCrunch)" class="wp-image-416181" srcset="https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Nikita-Bier-GettyImages-180205405.jpg 3000w, https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Nikita-Bier-GettyImages-180205405.jpg?resize=300,208 300w, https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Nikita-Bier-GettyImages-180205405.jpg?resize=768,533 768w, https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Nikita-Bier-GettyImages-180205405.jpg?resize=1024,710 1024w, https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Nikita-Bier-GettyImages-180205405.jpg?resize=1536,1065 1536w, https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Nikita-Bier-GettyImages-180205405.jpg?resize=2048,1421 2048w, https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Nikita-Bier-GettyImages-180205405.jpg?resize=324,225 324w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Nikita Bier. (Photo by Steve Jennings/Getty Images for TechCrunch)</figcaption></figure>

<p>Within that lean structure, Musk is unusually hands-on. Bier says that Musk does <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/hustle-culture-is-outdated-heres-what-actually-scales/500522">weekly reviews</a> “with every engineer at the company.” At these meetings, engineers present one or two slides based on what they have done that week, and Musk listens and gives feedback. </p>

<p>“Everyone has an incredible amount of <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/starting-a-business/meet-the-entrepreneur-behind-qualified-digital/493503">agency</a>,” Bier said. “We come up with an idea, we build it in a week and it’s out.”</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-high-stakes-constant-crises">High stakes, constant crises</h2>

<p>On the podcast, Bier called his job “the hardest I’ve ever done in my life,” and said that “every morning, every day, <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/how-to-align-your-team-when-a-pr-crisis-hits-your-business/501252">there’s a new crisis</a>.” He recalls waking up in the middle of the night to see political commentators spinning conspiracy threads about him on X, and every few weeks watching someone post his home address on the platform for all to see.</p>

<p>Additionally, “being <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/growing-a-business/6-ways-to-improve-customer-support-as-a-saas-company/497554">customer support</a> for like 500 million people is a crazy experience,” he said. </p>

<p>For Bier, who has <a href="https://x.com/nikitabier">over 800,000 followers </a>on X, describes himself as a power user who spends four to five hours a day on the platform. He says that he “personally suffers the consequences” if X doesn’t survive the test of time. “I lose as a creator,” he said. </p>

<p>That alignment makes the grind feel worthwhile. </p>

<p>“To work on a product that you spend every waking moment on is just a lot of fun,” he said, even as he calls it the toughest job of his career.</p>

<p>Musk is <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/elon-musk-says-money-cant-buy-happiness">the richest person in the world</a> at the time of writing, with a <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/billionaires/">total net worth</a> of $672 billion. In November, Tesla shareholders approved a record-breaking <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/tesla-offers-elon-musk-record-1-trillion-pay-package/496761">$1 trillion compensation plan</a> for Musk, leaving him room to become the world’s first trillionaire if he meets a series of milestones.</p>

<p>Musk bought X, then called Twitter, for <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/10/27/technology/elon-musk-twitter-deal-complete.html">$44 billion in October 2022</a>. Since then, X has <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/twitter-rebrand-x-name-change-elon-musk-what-it-means/#:~:text=The%20internet%20is%20abuzz%20as,Apple%20and%20Google%20app%20stores.">undergone a sweeping rebrand</a>, implemented <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/dereksaul/2025/02/05/heres-what-happened-after-elon-musk-cut-80-of-xs-employees-as-he-eyes-reshaping-federal-workforce/">cost cuts</a> and added new features, including <a href="https://www.pcmag.com/explainers/what-is-x-premium-plus-subscription-how-much">a subscription service</a>.</p>

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<div class="tw:border-b tw:border-slate-200 tw:pb-4">
<h2 class="tw:mt-0 tw:mb-1 tw:text-2xl tw:font-heading">Key Takeaways</h2>
<ul class="tw:font-normal tw:font-serif tw:text-base tw:marker:text-slate-400">

<li>The Bouqs is an online flower startup that was rejected by Shark Tank investors in 2014.</li>

<li>Since then, the startup has expanded to over $100 million in annual revenue.</li>

<li>The Bouqs’ primary growth strategies are a flexible subscription engine and a selective shift into brick-and-mortar stores.</li>

</ul>
</div>

<p>When The Bouqs Company walked off <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/leadership/shark-tank-star-barbara-corcoran-reveals-her-true-passion/491867"><em>Shark Tank</em></a> without a deal <a href="https://bouqs.com/blog/life-after-shark-tank/">in 2014</a>, the online flower startup looked like another reality TV disappointment. Instead, the business quietly kept building, ultimately crossing <a href="https://seilertucker.com/at-first-you-dont-succeed-try-try-again-with-john-tabis">$100 million in annual revenue</a> last year by reinventing how flowers are sourced, sold and subscribed to. </p>

<p>The Bouqs story starts long before the company appeared on <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/how-crash-champions-ceo-went-from-1-shop-to-6b-revenue/489054"><em>Shark Tank</em></a>. Co‑founders John Tabis and Juan Pablo “JP” Montúfar met at <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/starting-a-business/why-notre-dames-football-coach-tells-his-team-to-choose/471100">Notre Dame</a>, connecting around a shared frustration with the traditional floral industry. The two founded The Bouqs in 2012 and designed the company to ship bouquets directly from farms to customers’ doors. The choice cut out middlemen and pushed against legacy models, where orders bounce from website to wholesalers to local florists. </p>

<p>“Selling flowers online is not a brand-new concept, but the challenge with some of the other players in this space has always been that they are more of a <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/starting-a-business/whats-the-best-way-to-distribute-my-press-release/474939">wire service</a>, so you can order on the site, but they don’t know what the inventory is of any local florist at any time,” The Bouqs CEO Kim Tobman explains in a new interview with <em>Entrepreneur</em>. “So what you order online might not be what you get from the local florist.”</p>

<p>The Bouqs set out to address that concern and make sure that what you order is what you get. If a customer loves lilies, that’s what shows up. If they want orange roses, that’s what they get. </p>

<p>By the time Tabis appeared on <em>Shark Tank</em> in 2014, The Bouqs had already <a href="https://www.women.com/1664226/what-went-down-with-the-bouqs-company-after-shark-tan/">logged $700,000</a> in sales in its first year. The Sharks balked at his ask of $285,000 for 3% and questioned everything from margins to the name. Every Shark passed, and Tabis left without a deal. </p>

<p>The exposure was ultimately good for the brand — and one Shark, Robert Herjavec, later invested in the company after recognizing its value. Herjavec reached out to The Bouqs to <a href="https://www.inc.com/guadalupe-gonzalez/bouqs-shark-tank-deal.html">do his wedding flowers</a> in 2016 and later made an undisclosed investment in the company based on his positive experience. A year later, <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/billionaire-mark-cuban-spends-a-lot-of-time-on-his-emails/494979">Mark Cuban</a> called The Bouqs the one deal <a href="https://abcnews.go.com/Business/shark-tank-deal-mark-cuban-regrets-making/story?id=45661270">he regretted not making</a>. By 2019, The Bouqs had <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2019/03/08/nearly-5-years-after-shark-tank-debut-how-the-bouqs-company-is-doing.html">secured</a> $55 million in funding and expanded to 80 employees. Today, the company has scaled to <a href="https://seilertucker.com/at-first-you-dont-succeed-try-try-again-with-john-tabis">over $100 million</a> in revenue. </p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-subscription-model">Subscription model</h2>

<p>Tobman, 44, became the company’s CEO in September 2022, and says that one of its primary <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/entrepreneurs/thought-leaders/she-built-a-no-code-ai-company-now-worth-more-than-2-billion-heres-her-secret-to-growth">growth tactics</a> is its <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/starting-a-business/what-to-know-about-the-next-phase-of-subscription-services/496264">subscription service</a>. About 40% of the company’s revenue now comes from its <a href="https://bouqs.com/subscriptions">subscription offering</a>, which the brand deliberately designed around real customer behavior. “Subscription has been a huge part of our growth journey,” Tobman says. </p>

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" height="788" width="1024" src="https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Kim-Tobman-The-Bouqs.jpg?w=1024" alt="Kim Tobman, CEO. Credit: The Bouqs" class="wp-image-415622" srcset="https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Kim-Tobman-The-Bouqs.jpg 3000w, https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Kim-Tobman-The-Bouqs.jpg?resize=300,231 300w, https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Kim-Tobman-The-Bouqs.jpg?resize=768,591 768w, https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Kim-Tobman-The-Bouqs.jpg?resize=1024,788 1024w, https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Kim-Tobman-The-Bouqs.jpg?resize=1536,1182 1536w, https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Kim-Tobman-The-Bouqs.jpg?resize=2048,1576 2048w, https://www.entrepreneur.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/02/Kim-Tobman-The-Bouqs.jpg?resize=292,225 292w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Kim Tobman, CEO. Credit: The Bouqs</figcaption></figure>

<p>Tobman described two core audiences: Customers who want to gift a subscription to flowers starting on occasions like Mother’s Day or Valentine’s Day, and “power gifters” who send flowers constantly to different recipients for birthdays, promotions and life events. To serve both audiences, The Bouqs has made its <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/starting-a-business/why-every-business-should-borrow-this-key-strategy-from/487781">subscription flexible</a>. Subscribers can change the delivery date each month, they can change the recipient monthly and they can choose the specific bouquet each time. </p>

<p>Subscriptions are <a href="https://bouqs.com/subscriptions/new/plan">priced</a> at $48, $59 and $74 per month, with each price point corresponding to one bunch, two bunches and three bunches of flowers, respectively. The prices include year-round free shipping and do not increase over the life of the plan, allowing heavy flower buyers to lock in value while The Bouqs gains predictable, recurring revenue. </p>

<p>The floral calendar is otherwise spiky: <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/why-valentines-day-chocolate-is-more-expensive-this-year/469727">Valentine’s Day</a> is the company’s <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/5-brands-that-had-monster-super-bowl-lviii-marketing-parties/469796">Super Bowl</a>. Orders surge in a compressed window, and flowers must land exactly on the promised day. “We don’t get credit when it’s early, and we definitely don’t get credit when it’s late,” Tobman says. </p>

<p>The Bouqs uses that pressure as a growth moment. Marketing encourages <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/starting-a-business/he-solved-his-biggest-mistake-to-get-his-first-customer/499290">customers</a> to start with a holiday gift, then extend it into a <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/starting-a-business/5-industries-that-will-avoid-adopting-a-subscription-model/463928">monthly subscription</a>, so someone who discovers The Bouqs in early February may still be receiving and sending bouquets in November. Tobman says the subscription service has grown “exponentially” over the past few years, becoming a central driver of the company’s overall performance. </p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-brick-and-mortar-stores">Brick-and-mortar stores</h2>

<p>The next phase of The Bouqs’ growth is happening offline. In the past two years, the company has opened five <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/starting-a-business/inside-emptio-home-decors-shopkeeping-success/490969">brick-and-mortar stores</a>, including locations in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Orange County, San Diego County and New York. The Bouqs has also begun rolling out in-store flower shops with <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/amazon-is-giving-whole-foods-staff-new-job-offers/496439">Whole Foods Market</a>. The goal is not just to have the brand more visible to shoppers, but also offer same-day delivery in those areas. </p>

<p>Early tests show that the standalone stores have reached <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/building-a-business/this-founders-unusual-strategy-led-her-business-to-profitability-and-300m-in-lifetime-sales">profitability</a> within their first year, which “is pretty unheard of in retail,” Tobman says. </p>

<p>“That’s number one,” she says. “Can we make sure that this <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/starting-a-business/this-founders-ebay-side-hustle-led-to-a-92m-acquisition/499534">pays for itself</a>? The answer is yes.”</p>

<p>The stores also allow The Bouqs to capture demand and service more markets. “People do like to shop in person, that’s clear,” Tobman explains. “It’s a great brand-building opportunity that is also really important for us.”</p>

<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-advice-for-ceos">Advice for CEOs</h2>

<p>Tobman’s advice for CEOs is to lead with transparency and authenticity. She says it is easy to be an inspiring leader when things are going well, but that is not how business works. </p>

<p>“A business doesn’t grow without hitting bumps in the road,” Tobman says. “And so as the CEO, I always try to make sure that I balance transparency with optimism and enthusiasm for what we do.”</p>

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