29. What I've Learned Walking Through All Four Stages
Title: 29: What I've Learned Walking Through All Four Stages
Host: Nathan Pearce
Release Date: May 5, 2025
Duration: 13 minutes
Episode Summary
In this deeply personal episode, Nathan steps away from the coaching voice to share his real journey through all four stages of side hustling. From the late-night restlessness of Stage 0 to the beautiful mess of Stage 3 growth, he reveals the fears, doubts, and breakthrough moments that shaped his path. This isn't theory—it's the honest, unfiltered story of what it actually takes to build something meaningful from scratch.
🎯 In This Episode, You'll Learn:
- Why waiting for permission to start your side hustle is keeping you stuck in Stage 0 • How to move from overwhelming options to clear direction in the discovery phase • The real reason most people never validate their ideas (and how to push through the fear) • Why "done consistently" beats "done perfectly" in the growth stage • How to build systems that support your growth rather than exhaust you • The mindset shifts that make all the difference at each stage of the journey • Practical actions you can take right now, no matter which stage you're in
💡 Key Takeaways:
🔹 Clarity comes through action, not thinking – You can't steer a parked car, so pick a direction and start moving
🔹 The fear of judgment keeps you from the possibility of impact – The world needs what you have to offer, even if it's not perfect yet
🔹 Saying no is just as important as showing up – Protect your energy for what matters most as you grow
🔹 You don't need permission to start exploring your ideas – Stop waiting for approval that will never come
🔹 Systems beat perfection every time – Build processes that support sustainable growth
🔹 You're not behind or late to the party – You're exactly where you need to be on your unique path
🤔 Reflection Questions:
- How long have you been waiting for permission to start something meaningful?
- What's one idea you've been keeping private that might be ready to share with the world?
- When you think about your biggest fear around starting or growing your side hustle, what comes up?
- If you knew you couldn't fail, what would you try next?
- What's one thing you're saying yes to that you should probably say no to?
🎯 This Week's Action Step:
Identify which stage you're in and take one small action:
- Stage 0: Write down one idea you want to explore for the next 30 days
- Stage 1: Pick one direction and commit to it for the next month
- Stage 2: Share something publicly, even if it scares you
- Stage 3: Say no to something that doesn't align with your priorities
🔗 Resources & Links:
- Free Side Hustle Starter - Stage Zero: rfsh.co/stage-zero
- Newsletter Signup: rfsh.co/newsletter
- Risk Free Side Hustle Program: rfsh.co
- Previous Episodes in the Four Stages Series:
- Episode 26: Stage 0 - The Pre-Commit Phase
- Episode 27: Stage 1 - The Discovery Phase
- Episode 28: Stage 2 - The Validation Phase
- Episode 29: Stage 3 - The Growth Phase
💬 Join the Conversation:
We want to hear from you! Which stage are you in right now, and what's your biggest challenge? Share your thoughts and connect with fellow listeners:
📱 Connect with Nathan:
- LinkedIn: Nathan Pearce
- Email: [email protected]
📝 Share This Episode: Found value in today's episode? Share it with someone who might need to hear that they're not alone in this journey.
⭐ Leave a Review: If this podcast has helped you in your side hustle journey, please leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more professionals who are ready to reclaim their professional identity.
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Remember: You don't have to know exactly where you're going. You just need to be curious enough to try. Start messy, stay open, and trust that clarity will come.
#SideHustle #CareerDevelopment #ProfessionalIdentity #RiskFreeSideHustle
