In this week’s episode, Big Al Klopp and I broke down exactly what it takes to get there and stay there. It’s not just about saving more; it’s about thinking differently about money, time, and the future.

What Financial Freedom Really Means

According to recent data, 54% of people define financial freedom as being debt-free, and 50% say it’s about living comfortably. Only 13% equate it with being rich.

For us, financial freedom means your passive income matches or exceeds your expenses. That’s the point where you get to choose how you spend your time.

But here’s the catch: freedom comes from cash flow, not just net worth. If you have millions in assets but no income from them, you’re still on the clock.

The Roadblocks That Get in the Way

Most people don’t get stuck because they’re lazy. They get stuck because of:

• Not saving enough
• Carrying too much debt
• Living paycheck to paycheck
• Emergencies that wipe out savings

Take credit card debt as an example. The average balance is $8,600, and if you pay just $272 per month, you’ll be at it for 53 months and spend $5,600 in interest.

If you want freedom, the first step is cutting the chains and for many, that starts with credit cards.

3 Steps to Financial Freedom

Big Al and I recommend this simple process:

1. Inventory – Know your numbers: assets, liabilities, net worth
2. Invest – Grow your money through smart allocation
3. Sustain – Build systems to maintain freedom over time

Calculating your net worth is key. Add up what you own (bank accounts, retirement plans, real estate, etc.) and subtract what you owe (mortgages, loans, credit card balances). That’s your starting point.

And remember: always pay yourself first. Before you spend on wants, contribute to your 401(k), IRA, or savings account.

Taxes: The Sneaky Expense That Eats Your Freedom

Taxes are one of the biggest threats to financial independence. In California, a single filer earning $100,000 nets just $72,000 after taxes.

Want to fight back? Use:

• 401(k) and IRA contributions to lower taxable income
• Roth accounts for tax-free growth
• Capital gains strategies married couples can pay 0% on gains if income is under $94,000

And don’t forget: IRA and 401(k) withdrawals in retirement are taxed like ordinary income. Plan ahead, or risk surprise tax bills later.

Retirement Savings: It’s Never Too Early (But Don’t Wait)

The math is simple. If you start saving $700/month at age 30, you could hit $1 million by 65. Wait until 50, and you’ll need $3,500/month to get there.

That’s the power of compound interest time is your biggest ally.

If you’re self-employed, look into:

• Solo 401(k)s
• SEP IRAs
• SIMPLE plans

And if your employer offers a match? Don’t leave free money on the table.

Build an Emergency Fund (Before You Need It)

Before you start investing aggressively, make sure you’ve got 3–6 months of expenses saved in a high-yield savings account. This keeps you from falling back on high-interest credit cards during emergencies.

Also:

• Set up automatic bill payments
• Monitor your accounts
• Improve your credit score by paying on time and keeping usage low

Passive Income: The Secret Sauce to Sustainable Freedom

Want freedom? You need income streams that don’t depend on you clocking in.

Some options include:

• Rental properties
• REITs
• Dividend-paying stocks
• Social Security

If you wait until age 70 to claim Social Security, you’ll get 124% more than if you claim early. That’s a massive difference.

Plus, don’t underestimate side hustles like freelancing, consulting, or tutoring especially in the early stages of retirement.

Keep Adjusting Because Life Will

Markets change. Taxes change. Health changes. You need a plan that can adapt.

That’s why we talk about the 4% rule a guideline, not gospel. Some years, you may need to pull back to preserve your portfolio. That’s called managing sequence of returns risk retiring into a bad market could force you to sell investments at a loss.

Check in on your plan regularly and pivot when needed. Flexibility is freedom.

Final Thoughts

Financial freedom isn’t about getting rich. It’s about getting clear. Clear on your income, your expenses, your values, and your goals. It’s about using your money to support the life you want—not the other way around.

Whether you’re just getting started or refining your strategy, remember this: it’s possible. You can have a plan that works, a life that feels right, and a future you’re excited about.

You just have to start.

Intended for educational purposes only. Opinions expressed are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Neither the information presented, nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Consult your financial professional before making any investment decisions. Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice.

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES:

• Investment Advisory and Financial Planning Services are offered through Pure Financial Advisors, LLC. A Registered Investment Advisor.

• Pure Financial Advisors, LLC. does not offer tax or legal advice. Consult with a tax advisor or attorney regarding specific situations.

• Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

• Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

• All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy.

• Intended for educational purposes only and are not intended as individualized advice or a guarantee that you will achieve a desired result. Before implementing any strategies discussed you should consult your tax and financial advisors.

The post How to Actually Reach Financial Freedom: The Strategy That Works appeared first on ROI TV.

Diversify to Win in Any Market
No investment goes straight up forever. Real estate can crash. Stocks can take a nosedive. Crypto? You already know that rollercoaster. But when you’re diversified across different asset classes, you can win whether the economy is booming or busting. My goal is always the same: make sure I can win no matter what.

Real Estate That Pays You Monthly
I don’t buy homes to live in—I buy real estate that pays me every month. If I pick up a rental for $200,000 and rent it for $2,000 a month, after covering taxes, insurance, and management fees, I could be clearing $14,000 a year. That’s the kind of cash flow I’m after. And real estate also gives you big tax breaks—like depreciation and 1031 exchanges—so I keep more of that money in my pocket.

Cash Flow from Businesses and Dividends
Owning a business is one of the best wealth-building tools out there. Whether you run one or invest in one, it gives you leverage and income. Don’t want to run a business? Cool. Invest in dividend-paying stocks. Companies like McDonald’s paid out over $5 billion in dividends this year alone. I like ETFs like SCHD, NOBL, and VM because they give me exposure to cash-flowing companies without having to pick individual stocks.

Investing for Growth
I like to go on offense too, and that’s where growth investing comes in. I invest in funds like QQQ, VUG, IWF, and even niche stuff like AIQ and QTUM. These target industries with high upside like AI, tech, and quantum computing. They don’t pay me today, but they’re planting seeds for big returns tomorrow.

Going Global
If you only invest in the U.S., you’re missing half the world. Countries like India and Brazil are growing fast. I use international ETFs like VMI, VA, EMG, and specific ones like INDA and EWZ to get exposure to those markets. That way, even if the U.S. economy slows down, I still have opportunities growing overseas.

Speculative Assets (Use With Caution)
Now let’s talk about the wild stuff—crypto, startups, collectibles. This is the riskiest slice of my portfolio, and I keep it to 10-20%. If I lose it, I’m good. If it pops, great. I treat it like venture capital. If you’re new to investing, skip this stuff until you’ve built a strong foundation.

Why I Hold Gold
Gold is my insurance policy. It doesn’t produce income, but it holds value when everything else gets shaky. I’ve got 2% of my portfolio in physical gold. Not paper gold—real gold I can touch. It’s not flashy, but it helps me sleep better at night.

Invest in Yourself First
Before you invest in assets, invest in your brain. I didn’t grow up learning this stuff. I had to read books, watch videos, and dive into financial education. That’s why I started Market Briefs—to make it easy for you to stay updated without spending hours researching. The more you learn, the more you earn. Period.

Tax Benefits for Business Owners
The tax code is written for business owners. I deduct travel, meals, my car—because I use them for business. If I take a trip to Hawaii and I’m working while I’m there, that’s a business expense. This isn’t tax evasion. It’s playing the game by the rules. And wealthy people know the rules.

Final Word
If you want to stop working for money, you need to start using your money to buy the right assets. These seven investments—real estate, stocks, dividend funds, growth stocks, international exposure, gold, and yes, even some speculative bets—are how I build long-term wealth. But remember, this is just my plan. You’ve got to build a strategy that works for you. The key is to start. Start small if you have to, but don’t wait.

Stay smart. Stay educated. Keep hustling.
— Jaspreet Singh
Founder, Minority Mindset

Jaspreet Singh is not a licensed financial advisor. He is a licensed attorney, but he is not providing you with legal advice in this article. This article, the topics discussed, and ideas presented are Jaspreet’s opinions and presented for entertainment purposes only. The information presented should not be construed as financial or legal advice. Always do your own due diligence.

The post 7 Investments So You Don’t Have to Work Again appeared first on ROI TV.

Well, here’s the truth: it depends on you—your goals, your timeline, your risk tolerance, and your financial game plan.

How Have These Investments Performed?

Over the last five years, Bitcoin’s up over 1,000%, the stock market has grown about 120%, and the housing market’s climbed around 50%. But let me be crystal clear—past performance doesn’t guarantee future results. The goal isn’t to chase the highest number. The goal is to understand how each of these assets works so you can build a strategy that fits your life.

Real Estate: My Favorite for Cash Flow and Control

Real estate makes up about 50% of my portfolio, and for good reason. You’ve got cash flow from rental income, appreciation in property value, and some amazing tax benefits. I’m talking about depreciation write-offs, 1031 exchanges, and the ability to refinance tax-free.

The downside? It takes a lot to get started—big down payments, ongoing maintenance, tenant headaches. And real estate isn’t liquid. If you need to sell, it could take months.

But I love real estate because I can control it. I decide the rent. I decide the renovations. And the tax benefits? Huge.

Stocks: A Low Barrier, High Flexibility Asset

Stocks are the easiest way to get into investing. You can buy in with just a few bucks. Whether you’re buying Apple, Amazon, or Chipotle, you’re getting a slice of companies you know and use. Plus, you’ve got options—go growth for big upside or dividend-paying for steady income.

About 30% of my portfolio is in stocks—some in dividend-paying ETFs for cash flow, some in high-growth industries for long-term upside. The thing with stocks is they’re totally passive. The company does the work—you just sit back and (hopefully) watch your investment grow.

But the stock market can mess with your emotions. One bad news headline, and people panic sell. That’s why financial education is so important—so you don’t get caught chasing hype or fear.

Crypto: High Risk, High Potential Reward

Now let’s talk about the wild child—crypto. It’s volatile. It’s risky. But it also offers something unique: decentralization, borderless transactions, and nonstop market access.

I’ve got about 18% of my portfolio in speculative investments—startups and crypto included. These are high-risk, high-reward plays. I’m not putting my life savings in crypto, but I’m not ignoring it either. If it pays off, great. If it crashes, my core investments are still solid.

Designing Your Personal Investment Strategy

Here’s what I always say: Personal finance is personal. Don’t copy me. Don’t copy Trump, Saylor, or Buffett. Figure out what works for you.

Start by building a strong foundation—stocks and real estate are time-tested. Once you’ve got that base, you can explore riskier investments like crypto.

I also hold 2% of my portfolio in physical gold as a hedge. It doesn’t make me rich, but it’s a long-term store of value and a piece of my overall plan.

Tax Benefits You Can’t Ignore

Especially in real estate, the tax game is strong. If you own a property worth $300,000 (building only), you can write off about $10,000 a year through depreciation over 27.5 years. You can also accelerate that depreciation in the early years to supercharge your tax benefits.

Then there’s the 1031 exchange, which lets you defer capital gains taxes when selling a property, as long as you reinvest in another property. That’s like compounding wealth without Uncle Sam taking a cut—at least for now.

The Emotional Side of Investing

Emotions ruin more portfolios than bad investments. With stocks, it’s easy to freak out and sell low. With crypto, it’s easy to chase hype and buy high. Even with real estate, some people overleverage and panic when the market dips.

That’s why I built Market Briefs—to help people stay informed, not overwhelmed. It’s a free daily newsletter that breaks down what’s happening in the markets so you can make smart money moves.

So What Should You Do?

Start with one. Learn it. Understand it. Then diversify. You don’t need to be a pro in every asset class—you just need to have a strategy.

And remember, wealth isn’t about bragging rights or going viral. It’s about building a life of freedom, flexibility, and peace of mind.

If that’s your goal, you’re already on the right path.

Jaspreet Singh is not a licensed financial advisor. He is a licensed attorney, but he is not providing you with legal advice in this article. This article, the topics discussed, and ideas presented are Jaspreet’s opinions and presented for entertainment purposes only. The information presented should not be construed as financial or legal advice. Always do your own due diligence.

The post Real Estate vs Stocks vs Crypto – Which Investment Is Best for You? appeared first on ROI TV.

Money management is key, no matter how much you earn. But if you’re feeling financially stretched, there are plenty of creative ways to bring in extra cash. Whether you want to pay off debt, save for a big goal, or just gain more financial freedom, picking up a side hustle can be a game-changer.

Let’s explore seven side gigs that can realistically bring in $1,000 per month.

1. Freelance Writing or Blogging

If you have a knack for words, freelance writing or blogging can be a great way to earn extra income. Companies and websites are always looking for fresh content, whether it’s blog posts, copywriting, or social media content. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and ProBlogger make it easy to get started.

How to Get Started:

• Build a portfolio with sample articles.
• Join freelance platforms or pitch directly to blogs.
• Write about topics you enjoy to keep it sustainable.

2. Selling Handmade or Digital Products

Do you have a creative streak? Platforms like Etsy, Shopify, or Gumroad allow you to sell handmade crafts, digital downloads, or printables. Digital products—like planners, templates, or courses—are especially profitable since they require no ongoing inventory management.

Popular Ideas:

• Handmade jewelry, candles, or art prints.
• Digital planners, budget templates, or stock photos.
• Print-on-demand designs for T-shirts, mugs, or tote bags.

3. Virtual Assistant Services

Small businesses and entrepreneurs need help with administrative tasks, email management, and social media scheduling. If you’re organized and detail-oriented, becoming a virtual assistant (VA) can be a flexible and profitable side gig.

How to Get Started:

• Learn basic admin tools like Google Suite and Canva.
• Offer services on platforms like Belay, Time Etc., or Upwork.
• Start with a few clients and scale up as you gain experience.

4. Online Tutoring or Teaching

If you excel in a particular subject, online tutoring or teaching can be an excellent way to earn extra income. Companies like VIPKid, Outschool, and Wyzant connect tutors with students worldwide. You can also create your own online courses on platforms like Udemy or Teachable.

Best Subjects for Online Tutoring:

• English as a second language (ESL).
• Math, science, or test prep.
• Music lessons or specialized skills (e.g., coding, design).

5. Renting Out Your Space or Vehicle

If you have extra space in your home or a car you don’t use daily, you can monetize them through rental platforms.

Ways to Earn:

• Rent out a spare room on Airbnb.
• List your car on Turo for short-term rentals.
• Use Neighbor to rent out storage space in your garage or basement.

6. Social Media Management

Brands and influencers need help maintaining their social media presence. If you’re skilled in content creation, engagement strategies, and scheduling posts, you can offer social media management services.

Getting Started:

• Learn how to use social media scheduling tools like Later or Buffer.
• Offer content creation services for businesses.
• Charge per post or set up monthly retainers for steady income.

7. Flipping Items for Profit

Flipping involves buying undervalued items and reselling them for a profit. This can be done with thrift store finds, furniture, sneakers, or even electronics. Marketplaces like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Poshmark are great places to sell.

Best Items to Flip:

• Name-brand clothing and shoes.
• Vintage furniture or collectibles.
• Electronics like phones, laptops, and gaming consoles.

Final Thoughts

A side hustle can be a powerful tool to boost your income, but the key is to choose something you enjoy and can maintain long-term. Whether you’re freelancing, selling products, or monetizing an existing asset, these side hustles can help you reach your financial goals faster.

Ready to start? Pick one that excites you and take action today!

Which side hustle are you most interested in? Let us know in the comments!

The post 7 Creative Side Hustles to Earn an Extra $1,000 Per Month appeared first on ROI TV.

1. Invest in Dividend-Paying Stocks

Dividend-paying stocks allow you to earn regular payouts from the profits of companies you invest in. Look for well-established businesses with a history of consistent dividends. Reinvesting these dividends can significantly boost your portfolio over time.

2. Rental Properties

Owning rental properties provides steady monthly income. Whether it’s residential or commercial real estate, renting out spaces can generate consistent cash flow. However, consider property management services if you want a truly passive experience.

3. REITs (Real Estate Investment Trusts)

For those who want exposure to real estate without owning property, REITs are a great option. These publicly traded funds invest in real estate projects and pay dividends to investors.

4. Create Online Courses

If you’re an expert in a specific field, create an online course on platforms like Udemy or Skillshare. Once your course is live, it can generate revenue for years with minimal upkeep.

5. Publish E-Books

Writing and selling e-books is an excellent way to turn your expertise into passive income. Platforms like Amazon Kindle make it easy to publish and distribute your work.

6. Affiliate Marketing

Earn commissions by promoting products and services online. You can set up a blog, YouTube channel, or social media platform to drive traffic and generate affiliate sales.

7. Vending Machines

Purchase and maintain vending machines in high-traffic locations like offices or schools. These machines can generate steady income with minimal maintenance.

8. Rideshare or Car Rentals

Leverage your car by offering it for rideshare services like Uber or renting it out on platforms like Turo. This is a great option if your car is often idle.

9. Cash-Back Credit Cards

Earn rewards on everyday purchases with cash-back credit cards. By using them responsibly and paying off balances monthly, you can generate a small but consistent income stream.

10. Peer-to-Peer Lending

Lend money through platforms like LendingClub or Prosper and earn interest on your loans. Although it’s not risk-free, diversifying across multiple borrowers can help mitigate potential losses.

11. Dropshipping

Start an online store without holding inventory. With dropshipping, suppliers handle the storage and shipping while you focus on marketing and sales.

12. Start a YouTube Channel

Create video content that appeals to your niche and monetize it through ads, sponsorships, or affiliate marketing. Once your videos gain traction, they can earn income for years.

13. Blogging

Build a blog around a topic you’re passionate about and monetize it with ads, affiliate links, or sponsored content. With consistency, a successful blog can become a reliable income source.

14. Invest in Stocks and Index Funds

Index funds are a hands-off way to invest in the stock market. These funds track market indices and are known for long-term stability and growth.

15. Retail Investments

Partner with retail businesses or invest in retail stocks to benefit from the steady growth of consumer spending.

16. Sell Digital Products

Create and sell templates, software, or printables online. Once developed, these products require minimal maintenance and can generate consistent sales.

17. Podcasting

Launch a podcast on a topic you’re passionate about and monetize it through sponsorships, ads, and listener donations. Podcasts can create a loyal audience and consistent revenue stream.

18. Rent Digital Assets

Domain names, digital artwork, and other digital assets can be rented out for passive income. For example, high-value domains can be leased to businesses looking to build their online presence.

19. Sell Photography

Capture and sell stock photos on platforms like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock. This works well if you have a talent for photography and access to professional equipment.

20. Earn Royalties

License intellectual property such as music, patents, or books to earn royalties. Platforms like TuneCore or DistroKid make it easy for artists to distribute music and collect royalties.

21. Flip Items Online

Buy items at low prices from thrift stores or clearance sales and sell them for profit on eBay or Etsy. Once set up, this process can become semi-automated.

22. House Sitting

Offer house-sitting services to earn money while caring for someone’s property. This is a great way to earn income without needing much experience.

23. Monetize a Blog

If you already own a blog, you can sell it for a lump sum or continue earning through ads and affiliate sales.

24. Car Advertising

Earn money by allowing companies to wrap your car with advertisements. This requires minimal effort and can be a steady source of income.

25. Subscription Services

Offer exclusive content, such as online memberships or subscription boxes. Platforms like Patreon make it easy to monetize your audience with recurring revenue.

Final Thoughts

Creating passive income requires effort upfront, but the rewards can pay off for years. By exploring these 25 strategies, you can build multiple income streams and take steps toward financial freedom. Start small, stay consistent, and watch your passive income grow!

This blog was updated on 11/27 with 25 total ideas. Originally posted with only 19

Jaspreet Singh is not a licensed financial advisor. He is a licensed attorney, but is he is not providing you with legal advice in this article. This article, the topics discussed, and ideas presented are Jaspreet’s opinions and presented for entertainment purposes only. The information presented should not be construed as financial or legal advice. Always do your own due diligence.

The post 25 Passive Income Ideas: How to Earn Money Without Working 9 to 5 appeared first on ROI TV.