Meet the Podcaster: Side Hustle Pro

How Nicaila Matthews Okome built her life into a side hustle and showed the world how to do the same

Interview with Side Hustle Pro

Acast: For someone new to Side Hustle Pro, what’s your elevator pitch?

SHP: Side Hustle Pro is the first and only podcast to spotlight bold, Black women entrepreneurs who have scaled from side hustle to profitable business. Each week, I share inspiring stories and step-by-step strategies from founders who started small and built something incredible so you can too.

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Acast: What’s one episode you recommend people start with and why? 

SHP: I recommend starting with 9 Side Hustles You Can Start Today That Could Replace Your 9-5. It’s one of the most popular episodes because it’s packed with tangible ideas and mindset shifts. Whether you're still figuring out your direction or ready to take action, it’ll help you see what’s possible.

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Acast: Podcasting is a long game, and you have been podcasting since 2016. What keeps you motivated when things get tough or hit a creative block? 

SHP: My listeners. Every DM that says, “This episode gave me the push I needed” reminds me why I started. I also give myself permission to pivot, rest, and evolve so I never feel boxed in.

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Acast:What’s something you wish more podcasters knew about monetizing their content? 

SHP: You don’t need millions of downloads to make money. You need a clear brand, a defined audience, and a plan. Monetization doesn’t just mean sponsors either, it can mean digital products, coaching, speaking, and more.

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Acast: What would you say to someone who’s considering turning their side hustle into a full-time gig but is scared to make the leap?

SHP: Everything you want is on the other side of overthinking. You don’t have to leap blindly, but you do have to move. Start with a plan, build your confidence, and test as you go. I always say make the plan and work the plan. That’s what side hustling is all about.

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Acast: You have helped spotlight so many entrepreneurs. What’s one piece of advice that’s stuck with you from a guest?

SHP: Kim Lewis, Founder of CurlMix, said in Episode 48, “If you can’t run a side hustle, you can’t run a business.” That stuck with me. It’s a reminder that side hustling isn’t just a stepping stone, it’s the training ground. It’s where you crawl before you walk, and walk before you run. It’s your time to explore, test, make mistakes, learn, and pivot.

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Acast: You’re launching a solo series called The Expansion Era. Can you share what inspired this new direction and what listeners can expect? 

SHP: The Expansion Era is about what happens after your side hustle becomes your main hustle. I’ve been working for myself for seven years now, and I’ve reached a point where I’m asking, “What’s next?” Who do you turn to for mentorship when you’re carving a path with no blueprint? This series is about that journey, navigating growth, identity, and building a life and business that reflects who you're becoming. These solo episodes are my space to go deeper, reflect in real time, and connect with my audience on a more personal level.

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Acast: Brand partnerships are a key part of your evolution. What makes a dream brand partner for you at this stage of the game?

SHP:  A dream partner gets the Side Hustle Pro mission and wants to uplift the same communities I serve: emerging business owners, side hustlers, and Black women entrepreneurs. I value brands that understand long-term impact over one-off posts.

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Quick Fire Round

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Give your two truths and a lie 

 I once worked at NPR, I record podcast episodes from my closet, I’m the oldest of my siblings (the lie)

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Coffee order before recording the podcast 

Nowadays a huge glass coffee mug with coffee, high protein shake mixed in, and a tablespoon of creamer (guilty pleasure)

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What is your tik tok/insta algorithm showing you right now? 

So much meal prep ideas because I’m always trying to optimize my time and get more healthy/fit at the same time

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Favorite podcast you have discovered this year? 

Ambition Without Compromise. It feeds my soul as a Black woman juggling motherhood and ambition right now.

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The most underlooked side hustle 

Right now it’s faceless youtube channels. I’m really curious about how people are scaling and monetizing them in the age of AI. Stay tuned!

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Favorite meal after a long work day 

If you know me, you know it will always be Chicken Pad Thai with some curry puffs on the side

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