The Top 3 Ways I've Made Money Online (and What I'd Never Do Again)

If you're wondering how creators are really making money online in 2025—beyond the hype, the hustle, and the ever-changing algorithms—this episode is for you. I'm pulling back the curtain on the top three ways I've consistently earned income from my creative business, and I'm also sharing three things I'll never do again. Whether you're just getting started or trying to scale, I hope this gives you a dose of clarity (and maybe a nudge of encouragement, too).

https://creativesonfirepodcast.com/episode198

Hosting a Quarterly Online Event That Leads to a Membership

Hands down, one of the most successful strategies I've used is hosting virtual events that funnel into a membership. It started as a fun way to bring people together around a shared interest, but it quickly became a reliable system for launching and growing a loyal community.

Quarterly events bring urgency and energy. They give people a reason to show up, engage, and—most importantly—take action. When your event naturally leads into a membership or recurring offer, it removes the awkward sales pitch and feels like the next logical step.

Tip: If you're considering this model, focus on serving first. Create something fun, helpful, and highly relevant to your audience—and the right people will want to stick around for more.

Consistent Monthly Brand Deal Partnerships

One-off sponsorships are fine, but long-term brand partnerships are where the magic happens. Not only do they provide steady, predictable income, but they also allow you to go deeper with your audience while staying in alignment with your values.

I've learned that you don't need to say yes to everything—in fact, you shouldn't. Choose partnerships that genuinely make sense for your brand. The right deals feel like collaborations, not compromises.

Tip: Once you've found your rhythm, pitch brands you already love and use. Consistency builds trust, and trust builds income.

Blogging Ad Revenue

Let's not underestimate the power of your blog. Even today, blogging is still one of the best ways to create evergreen, scalable income through ad revenue.

It didn't happen overnight. I had to stay consistent with posting, learn SEO, and be patient with the process. But now? My blog works for me, even when I'm not working on it.

If you're sitting on a blog that's been collecting digital dust, this is your sign to dust it off and get back to creating.

What I'd Never Do Again

Every lesson comes with a story. Here are three money-making tactics I've tried that I wouldn't repeat:

1. Accept Free Product Instead of Pay

Unless the product is truly life-changing (think: dream vacation, high-end tech, or something you'd genuinely invest in), don't trade your time and energy for "exposure" or free stuff. Your skills have value. Your time is money.

2. Try to Monetize Everything at Once

I used to believe that doing all the things would lead to faster growth. In reality, it led to burnout and half-finished projects. Now I focus on one stream until it runs smoothly, then move on to the next.

Focus leads to income. Multitasking leads to overwhelm.

3. Depend on Social Media for Income

Social media is a tool, not the foundation. It's unpredictable, exhausting, and entirely out of your control. These days, I use social platforms to direct people to where the real magic happens—my email list, blog, podcast, and products.

Final Thoughts

The best way to make money online isn't the trendiest or flashiest—it's the most sustainable. For me, that's looked like building systems, leaning into consistency, and choosing depth over distraction.

Which one of these income streams are you focused on right now? I'd love to hear from you!

n the Episode:

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