Forget MLMs: These Side Gigs Are the Real Money-Makers for Dads

Are you tired of your brother-in-law trying to rope you into another pyramid scheme? Put down that essential oil catalog and listen up. I’ve discovered side gigs that make dads serious cash without alienating their friends and family.

1. Freelance Writing

Who knew all those puns could pay off? Freelance writing is a goldmine for dads with a way with words. And no, you don’t need to be Shakespeare to make it work.

The best part? You can write about what you know. Are you a grill master? Write content for BBQ blogs. Know everything about lawn care? Garden websites are always looking for content. Your dad skills are more valuable than you think.

How to Get Started 

Create profiles on freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. Start with lower-paying jobs to build your portfolio, then work your way up to higher-paying gigs. 

Before you know it, you’ll be earning more from writing than you ever did from trying to sell overpriced leggings to your neighbors.

2. Virtual Assistant

If you can manage a household of rowdy kids, you can definitely handle being a virtual assistant. This gig is perfect for organized dads who are good at juggling multiple tasks.

As a virtual assistant, you may manage emails, schedule appointments, do data entry, or even manage social media accounts. The best part? You can do it all from your home office (or your couch, we won’t judge).

How to Get Started

List your services on freelance platforms or reach out to local businesses directly. Highlight your organizational skills and any relevant experience from your day job or running your household. 

Trust me, if you can coordinate soccer practice, piano lessons, and a family dinner, you’ve got what it takes to be a killer VA.

3. Online Tutoring

Remember helping your kids with their homework? Well, plenty of other kids (and adults) out there could use your expertise. Online tutoring is booming, and it’s a perfect side gig for knowledgeable dads.

You don’t need to be a math whiz or an English professor to tutor. Are you fluent in another language? There’s a huge demand for language tutors. Good with computers? Teach basic tech skills to seniors. The possibilities are endless.

How to Get Started

Sign up for online tutoring platforms like VIPKid or TutorMe. You can also offer your services locally through community Facebook groups or neighborhood apps. 

Set your own hours and rates, and watch your bank account grow while you help others learn.

4. Handyman Services

If your toolbox is your pride and joy, listen up. There’s serious money to be made in being a handyman. And the best part? You probably already have all the skills you need.

You can start offering services to neighbors and friends. Do small jobs like fixing leaky faucets, assembling furniture, or painting rooms. These quick jobs easily fit your regular work schedule and family commitments.

As word spreads about your reliable work and fair prices, you’ll get calls from people outside your immediate circle. Before you know it, you’ll have a steady stream of weekend work bringing in more than your 9-5 job.

How to Get Started

Create a Facebook page for your services and join local community groups. Offer competitive rates and reliable service, and you’ll soon have more work than you can handle. 

Just remember to set boundaries. You don’t want your side gig taking over your family time.

5. Pet Sitting

Got a soft spot for furry friends? Pet sitting could be your perfect side gig. It’s flexible, fun, and can be surprisingly lucrative.

You can start pet sitting when a neighbor asks you to watch their dog while they are on vacation. It’s a breeze – you’re probably already walking yours, so adding another to the pack is no big deal. Plus, your kids loved having a temporary pet.

Word could spread quickly, and soon, you’ll be the go-to pet sitter in the neighborhood. Each job is an adventure, and the pay is pretty sweet too.

How to Get Started

Create a profile on pet-sitting websites like Rover or Wag. You can also advertise your services in local Facebook groups or community boards. 

Start with day visits or dog walking and work your way up to overnight stays if you’re comfortable with that.

6. Flipping Furniture

Remember that old dresser you saw on the curb last week? That could have been your ticket to easy money. Flipping furniture is a fantastic side gig for handy dads with an eye for potential.

You can spend your weekends scouring yard sales and flea markets for hidden gems. With a little sanding, some paint, and maybe some new hardware, a piece of junk can become a beautiful (and profitable) piece of furniture.

How to Get Started

Look for free or cheap furniture on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or even curbside on trash day. Start with simple projects and work your way up to more complex restorations. 

Sell your pieces online or at local flea markets. Not only will you make money, but you’ll also be keeping perfectly good furniture out of landfills.

7. Podcasting

With this, you can turn your Dad rants into passive income. Do you have opinions? Of course, you do; you’re a dad. Why not turn those opinions into a podcast? It’s easier than you think and could become a serious money-maker.

You can start a podcast about the challenges of being a working dad. Record episodes after the kids go to bed and discuss everything from work-life balance to the best dad jokes. You’ll be surprised that people actually want to listen.

How to Get Started

All you need is a decent microphone and a topic you’re passionate about. Record a few episodes, upload them to podcast platforms, and start promoting on social media. 

Consistency is key – stick with it, and you could build a loyal audience (and a nice side income). As your audience grows, so will the opportunities to monetize. 

You can start with ads and sponsorships, then branch into merchandise and even speaking engagements. Later, the podcast may bring in a steady stream of passive income.

Your Turn to Cash In

These seven side gigs are perfect for dads looking to boost their income without falling into the MLM trap. These aren’t get-rich-quick schemes. They require effort and dedication. But unlike MLMs, they offer real potential for sustainable income.

The best part? Many of these gigs allow you to use skills you already have or develop new ones you’ve always wanted to learn. Plus, they’re flexible enough to fit around your family commitments.