How Scott Goodfriend Turned His Side Hustle into a $200,000 per Year Business?

Scott Goodfriend’s journey from being laid off to running a successful business is a testament to the power of resilience and the potential of a side hustle. In 2023, when he lost his job at Meta, he didn't let it deter him. Instead, he took his side hustle full-time and now earns around $200,000 a year. The irony of his success is sweet, indeed.

Moving from Los Angeles to New York City was a significant change for Goodfriend, but it was also a source of inspiration. He became fascinated with the city's culinary scene and saw a business opportunity waiting to be seized.

Goodfriend's passion for food and his entrepreneurial spirit led him to start his side hustle while still working at Meta. He began by offering guided food tours of New York City, showcasing the diverse and vibrant culinary landscape to both locals and tourists. What started as a passion project soon turned into a profitable venture.

The turning point came when Goodfriend was laid off from his job at Meta. While many would see this as a setback, Goodfriend saw it as an opportunity to focus on his side hustle full-time. He took the leap of faith and dedicated all his time and energy to growing his business.

One of the key factors behind Goodfriend's success was his ability to adapt and innovate. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, when tourism ground to a halt, he pivoted his business model. Instead of offering in-person food tours, he launched virtual cooking classes, allowing people to experience the joy of cooking from the comfort of their own homes. This move not only helped him survive during a challenging time but also expanded his customer base beyond New York City.

Another factor that contributed to Goodfriend's success was his commitment to providing exceptional customer service. He understood the importance of building strong relationships with his clients and ensuring that they had an unforgettable experience. By going above and beyond to meet their needs, he was able to earn their trust and loyalty, resulting in repeat business and referrals.

Goodfriend also leveraged social media to market his business and connect with potential customers. He regularly posted mouth-watering photos of food and behind-the-scenes glimpses of his cooking classes, which helped generate buzz and attract new followers. His engaging and authentic online presence helped him stand out in a crowded market and establish himself as a trusted authority in the food industry.

Today, Goodfriend's business is thriving, and he is earning around $200,000 a year — a far cry from his days working at Meta. He has expanded his offerings to include private cooking events, corporate team-building activities, and culinary consulting services. His success has allowed him to pursue his passion full-time and live life on his own terms.

Reflecting on his journey, Goodfriend acknowledges the irony of his situation. "Losing my job at Meta was tough at the time, but looking back, it was the best thing that ever happened to me," he says. "It forced me to pursue my passion and turn my side hustle into a full-time business. And now, I'm happier and more fulfilled than ever before."

Goodfriend's story is a reminder that sometimes, the greatest opportunities can arise from the most unexpected circumstances. By staying true to his passion, embracing change, and never giving up, he was able to turn a setback into a success. And for that, he is grateful — even if it took a little sweet, sweet irony to get there.