6 ‘Unhinged’ Ways To Make Extra Money Now, According to Rachel Cruze
If it feels like traditional side hustles are oversaturated, finance expert Rachel Cruze has some fresh ideas. She recently asked her Instagram followers to share the most “unhinged” ways they made extra money, and the responses ranged from quirky to surprising. Behind the humor was clear evidence of creative thinking that can translate into real cash.
1. Turn Everyday Products Into a Pop-Up Business
One commenter wrote, “When I was twelve, I ordered a truck of Krispy Kreme donuts delivered to my house and sold them to my neighborhood as a fundraiser only. It was just to me, and I made over $400 that day.”
Cruze laughed, calling it “a great lemonade stand idea.”
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This is a good example of buying in bulk and selling at a markup where demand already exists. The key is verifying demand before you invest. Without it, this type of hustle could end up costing you more than it is worth. It is also a good idea to check local sales permit requirements, HOA guidelines and food safety rules before taking on a similar venture.
2. Get Paid To Do What Others Avoid
Another person wrote about earning income doing the kinds of things others might not want to. “I worked with my dad to tear off roof shingles. I did four in one summer and it paid for two years of college.”
Cruze pointed out that “When it comes to manual labor… people will pay to get stuff done at their house.”
Home maintenance, yard work and skilled labor remain some of the highest-paying side hustles because they solve problems that many people are too busy — or unwilling — to handle themselves. Be sure to research the going rate in your area so you do not overcharge or undercharge. Also factor in safety risks, equipment costs and, if applicable, licensing requirements.
3. Stack Your Time Strategically
Time blocking and stacking clients back-to-back can significantly boost hourly income. Cruze shared an example of someone who stacked babysitting gigs: one from 4 a.m. until they needed to get to school at 8 a.m., then, after dropping off the first set of kids, they immediately drove to babysit for a second family.
Cruze noted, “That’s good. You're blocking your time, getting double the shift.”
4. Flip What Others Throw Away
Appliance flipping, furniture refinishing and electronics repair can be effective ways to bring in extra cash if you understand the product and repair costs.
One commenter “flipped washers and dryers off Craigslist.” Cruze called it “impressive” and noted, “Talk about handy work. You've got to know what you're doing there.”
As with the donut example, margins matter. You need the skills to assess repair costs accurately and price items competitively. Remember that your time is money, too, so factor in sourcing, repairs and delivery when calculating potential profit.
5. Say Yes to Short-Term Gigs
From overnight research studies to packaging fishing lures at home, followers shared unconventional but effective gigs. One person wrote, “That research study in college had to sleep overnight… and they rubbed medicine cream on your forearms.”
Cruze said, “Usually the more creative you can get, the more niche thing you can find, the more money you're going to make.”
Look for opportunities such as research trials, focus groups and temporary contract work that may pay well because they are specialized and time-limited. Just be sure to vet opportunities carefully to avoid scams and understand any health or contractual risks before participating.
6. Do What Most Others Won’t
Perhaps the most extreme example Cruze shared was: “Put a padded body suit on and ran through a field to help train the police dogs on how to bring down criminals.”
It may not be for everyone, but it reinforced Cruze’s core theme: Unconventional does not mean unprofitable.
High-discomfort or unusual gigs often command premium pay precisely because fewer people are willing to do them.
Creativity Can Lead to Extra Income
Cruze closed by emphasizing creativity and encouraging viewers to explore side hustle options tailored to their skill sets and schedules. Extra income can help you pay down debt more quickly, build an emergency fund or boost retirement contributions.
The methods may sound “unhinged,” but the financial impact can be very grounded.
This article was provided by MoneyLion.com for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or tax advice.
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