In a recent episode of The Diary of a CEO, host Steven Bartlett sat down with Chris Koerner, a serial entrepreneur dubbed the “King of Side Hustles.” Koerner has launched over 80 businesses, collectively generating hundreds of millions in revenue, and built an audience of more than one million followers across platforms. His message is straightforward: right now is the best time in history to start a profitable side hustle — and with the right approach, hitting $10,000 per month within 90 days is realistic for many people.

Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Start

Koerner argues that technological advancements have dramatically lowered the barriers to entry. AI tools, no-code platforms, social media algorithms, and inexpensive advertising mean almost anyone can launch and test a business idea with minimal upfront capital. Where starting a company once required significant funding, inventory, or technical expertise, today’s entrepreneurs can validate demand and generate sales in days — often for under $500.

The Biggest Myths About Building Wealth

One of Koerner’s core beliefs is that “passive income” is largely a myth — at least in the beginning. True passive streams only emerge after years of active, sometimes grueling work. He advises newcomers to focus first on “sweaty startups” — businesses that require effort but teach essential skills in sales, marketing, and profit generation.

Another common trap is chasing passion. Koerner recommends starting with proven, profitable ideas rather than trying to invent something entirely new. His mantra: “Don’t reinvent the wheel — copy what already works.” Tools like SimilarWeb, Ahrefs, and the Wayback Machine allow anyone to study successful competitors and replicate their models legally and ethically.

The Mindset That Wins

Entrepreneurship, according to Koerner, is a numbers game. Expect rejection, failed tests, and slow starts. Success comes from rapid experimentation: launch small, measure results, iterate or pivot quickly. He warns against having a “Plan B,” as it dilutes focus and reduces the urgency needed to push through obstacles.

He also categorizes entrepreneurs into three types:

• Starters: Idea generators who excel at launching new ventures.
• Maintainers: Operators who optimize and run established businesses smoothly.
• Finishers: Closers who drive sales and finalize deals.

Most people naturally lean toward one type. Recognizing your strength — and partnering with others who complement it — dramatically increases your odds of success.

Validation Before Scaling

Koerner stresses the importance of proving demand before investing heavily. Simple validation tactics include:

• Listing products on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist to gauge interest.
• Running small-budget Meta (Facebook/Instagram) ads to test messaging and offers.
• Attending local markets or events to sell in person.

One of his golden rules: learn Meta advertising quickly. It remains one of the cheapest, most targeted ways to drive traffic and sales.

Practical Side Hustle Ideas by Budget

Koerner shared concrete, actionable ideas tailored to different starting budgets:

Under $500

• Offer AI implementation services to local businesses (e.g., ChatGPT automation, AI content tools).
• Drop-servicing: sell lead generation or web design services to clients, then outsource fulfillment.
• Build niche directory websites and monetize with listings or ads.
• Buy a used vending machine and secure a high-traffic placement.

Around $1,000

• Start a wedding rental business (build or source items like arches, signage, and photo backdrops).
• Launch hyper-local email newsletters and sell sponsorships to nearby businesses.

Around $5,000

• Acquire small existing businesses (e.g., RV parks, laundromats) from retiring owners, often with seller financing.
• Use the capital for aggressive marketing and operational improvements.

Koerner himself has succeeded with similar models, including remanufacturing iPhone screens (which generated $2 million in the first year) and spotting untapped e-commerce niches like unofficial merchandise stores for popular brands.

Partnerships and Long-Term Warnings

While partnerships can accelerate growth, Koerner cautions against rushing in. He compares them to marriages — but with even higher failure rates. Avoid default 50/50 splits unless values, work ethic, and vision align perfectly.

Finally, he is candid about the trade-offs. Entrepreneurship offers freedom and upside but comes with volatility, stress, and sacrifices — especially in family and personal time. It’s not for everyone, but for those willing to experiment relentlessly, the opportunity has never been greater.

Chris Koerner’s philosophy boils down to action over perfection. Start small, test fast, learn from data, and scale what works. With today’s tools and platforms, turning a side hustle into a $10,000-per-month income stream in just 90 days is no longer a fantasy — it’s a repeatable process available to anyone willing to put in the work.

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