The High Cost of Connection: Dating, Money, & the Search for Validation
Written by The Penny Phantom | Published: June 18, 2025
Hey there, it's The Phantom.
While I usually keep things cheeky, lighthearted, and laser-focused on the everyday wins of saving money, avoiding overspending, and calling out consumer traps, today I’m diving into a more traditional — yet totally exciting — topic: Investing and passive income.
You’ve probably heard the buzzwords for years: passive income, financial independence, generational wealth, FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early). But where do you actually start if you’re not a finance bro with a Wall Street background?
Right here. Let’s break it down in plain English, with some fun and fresh takes.
Investing is the act of using your money to make more money — ideally without working more hours. That could mean putting money into the stock market, real estate, small businesses, or even yourself.
But investing isn’t just about the S&P 500 and 401(k)s. Today, it includes side hustles, micro-investing, and even renting out your car. Let’s explore the whole spectrum.
You don’t need a huge bank account or a financial advisor to start making money while you sleep.
Here are some less conventional (but powerful) passive income options:
📦 Rent Out a Storage Space or Garage
Got an unused shed, basement, or parking spot? Sites like Neighbor connect people with space to those who need it.
The $20 Rule, a popular Phantom post! Save what you don't spend.
🚗 Rent Out Your Car
🐾 Pet Sitting and Boarding
With apps like Rover or Wag, you can care for pets in your spare time.
Bonus: it's stress-relieving, not stressful.
🖊️ Freelance Writing or Designing
Sites like Fiverr, Upwork, or Contra let you post your skills and earn project-based income.
Once you build up a portfolio, recurring gigs can turn freelance into passive-ish income.
📱 Create and Sell a Digital Product
Think: ebooks, digital planners, templates, or printables.
Set up a simple shop with Gumroad, Etsy, or Shopify, and promote via Pinterest or Instagram.
📹 Monetize Your Knowledge
Launch a small YouTube channel or teach on platforms like Skillshare or Teachable.
Evergreen videos and courses can generate money for years.
Okay, now let’s talk about the more traditional side of investing —
but without the overwhelm.
💳 High-Yield Savings Accounts (HYSA)
Still the most underrated tool. Interest rates vary, but many online banks now offer 4–5% APY.
Try Ally, Marcus by Goldman Sachs, or Capital One 360.
📈 Penny Stocks and Micro-Investing
Perfect for dipping your toes in without betting the farm.
Brokers like Robinhood, Fidelity, and Webull allow fractional investing.
Just keep in mind: high reward = high risk. Research is key.
💰 Treasury Bonds & I-Bonds
Not exciting, but I-Bonds currently offer inflation protection.
You can buy directly at TreasuryDirect.gov
📊 Index Funds and ETFs
Hands-off, low-fee investment vehicles that track the market.
Often recommended by personal finance experts like JL Collins and the team behind the FIRE movement.
🏠 Real Estate Crowdfunding
Use platforms like Fundrise or Roofstock to invest in real estate with as little as $10–$100.
👩🏫 Employer-Sponsored 401(k)
If your job offers a 401(k) match, grab it — it’s literally free money.
Even a small monthly contribution adds up fast.
Let’s address the elephant in the room: FEAR.
“I don’t have enough money to invest.”
“I don’t understand the stock market.”
“What if I lose it all?”
These are real fears. But the truth is:
You can start with as little as $5 on platforms like Acorns or Stash.
Many apps and websites offer free education and simulation tools.
You don’t have to be perfect — you just have to start.
Set a Goal
Do you want to build wealth? Replace a side hustle? Retire early?
Knowing the why makes the how easier.
Pick One Area to Start
Don’t overwhelm yourself. Choose one passive income stream or one investment tool to learn about.
Schedule a Monthly “Money Date”
Review your progress, read one article, watch a video, or tweak your approach.
Track Your Growth
Use a simple Google Sheet or app like Personal Capital or YNAB to see results.
Keep Learning
Follow creators like @herfirst100k, @thebudgetmom, or blogs like Mr. Money Mustache.
Investing isn’t just about money. It’s about freedom, autonomy, and the confidence that comes from taking control of your future.
Every dollar you put to work is a little employee on your financial team.
You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be consistent.
Spending less is the first step to financial freedom.
But what you do with what you save? That’s the next level.
So whether it’s renting out your garage, investing in I-Bonds, or making your first $2 digital download —
Remember: Every smart move you make today plants a seed for tomorrow.