How Black entrepreneurs are turning side hustles into careers

NEW YORK (1010 WINS) – A recent study by Zapier.com found that over one third of Americans have a side hustle, or a gig that brings in extra money beyond their regular job and main source of income. Because of the country’s racial pay gap, many of those Americans are Black.

When the COVID-19 pandemic began and those workers reevaluated their lives, many decided to make those side hustles their careers.

Tiffany Goforth is the owner of the Oh 7 Bar & Restaurant in Spartanburg, South Carolina
Tiffany Goforth is the owner of the Oh 7 Bar & Restaurant in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Photo credit © ALEX HICKS JR./SPARTANBURG HERALD-JOURNAL / USA TODAY NETWORK

But with that decision came major hurdles. It wasn’t because the transition was difficult. Instead, it was because it’s harder for Black entrepreneurs to get the same kind of access and opportunities as white ones.

In this episode of Beyond Black History Month, we speak with a handful of Black entrepreneurs who have fully committed to their side hustles. Listen as we discuss the unique challenges they’ve faced along the way, as well as how rewarding it feels to succeed on their own terms.

Featured Image Photo Credit: © ALEX HICKS JR./SPARTANBURG HERALD-JOURNAL / USA TODAY NETWORK