The rise of the side hustle

U.S. workers are increasingly turning to side hustles amid economic pressures, while a severe drought prompts new water conservation measures on the Colorado River. The episode also touches on falling oil imports to Asia and inflation's impact on high-end events like the Met Gala.

Side Hustles Reach Near-Historic Levels

About 8.5 million Americans, or one in 20 workers, hold multiple jobs, per Bureau of Labor Statistics data. This marks a slight dip from last fall's peak—the highest multiple-job rate since 1999, before the dot-com bubble burst. Economist Nicole Smith of Georgetown University draws parallels to that era's automation fears, now amplified by the gig economy. Workers pair primary jobs with platforms like DoorDash, Uber, and freelance work to boost income.

Indeed Hiring Lab economist Cory Staley ties the trend directly to inflation and rising costs, including those from the war in Iran. Multiple jobs mean more money when essentials get pricier. After edging down over four months, the share of multi-job holders could rise again if inflation persists and oil prices climb, Staley notes. This reflects broader pressures forcing, especially younger workers, to patchwork gigs for stability.