Isn't That Rich Podcast

What if we told you that you could make money just by recommending your favorite products? No shipping, no inventory, no late-night side hustle spreadsheets—just sharing what you already use and love. That’s affiliate marketing, and it’s not just for influencers or YouTubers with a million followers. It’s for people like you who genuinely enjoy helping others discover good stuff.

Whether you’re posting your favorite face cream on Instagram or texting your friend a link to your go-to kitchen gadget, you’re already doing the work. You might as well get paid for it.

So, What Is Affiliate Marketing?

Here’s the gist. Affiliate marketing means you get a special link to a product you like. You share that link. Someone clicks and buys. You get a commission. That’s it. You’re basically a part-time salesperson for products you were probably already talking about anyway.

It’s free to sign up for most affiliate programs. There’s no risk. No giant upfront investment. Just you, your phone, and your love of recommending the best stuff.

Why It Works for Regular (and Awesome) People

Forget the myth that affiliate marketing is only for people with a professional photographer, a six-figure following, and a ring light collection. Today, it’s designed for people who just like sharing what works. Here’s why it’s a perfect fit.

It Costs You Nothing to Start

Most affiliate programs are free. You don’t need a website, inventory, or even a fancy strategy. You’re already telling people what you like—now you just earn a few bucks for doing it.

It Fits Whatever You’re Into

Love gardening? Into high-protein desserts? Obsessed with organizing your house? There’s an affiliate program out there for your niche. Whether you’re posting cute outfits, building a dream kitchen, or sharing your skincare routine, you can find products to match.

You Can Build at Your Own Pace

Maybe you start with a few posts and a few dollars. Maybe one day you wake up to a surprise commission from a viral Pinterest pin. It’s all about consistency. Start small and grow as you go.

It Feels Real

People are tired of pushy sales tactics. Affiliate marketing works best when it’s woven into your life, not when it feels like a commercial. Your real-life experiences and opinions carry more weight than any ad ever could.

How to Get Started in 3 Steps

This is not a ten-module course with homework. It’s three simple steps to start earning.

Step 1: Pick Your Niche

Stick with what you know and love. Maybe it’s skincare. Maybe it’s teacher outfits. Maybe it’s budget-friendly home finds or kitchen gadgets you didn’t know you needed. Whatever lights you up, start there.

You can have more than one niche, but narrowing it down helps people know what to expect from you—and helps you stay focused when choosing products to share.

Step 2: Decide Where You’ll Share

You don’t need to be on every platform. Start with what you already use.

• Instagram is great for fashion and lifestyle
• Pinterest is a search engine disguised as a social app, perfect for home and decor
• TikTok thrives on storytelling and quick tips
• Facebook groups or email newsletters are great for more personal connections
• A blog can be a long-term win if you enjoy writing

Remember, what performs best on one platform might not do as well on another. Try different types of posts and pay attention to what clicks.

Step 3: Join an Affiliate Program

Here are a few beginner-friendly options to explore:

• LTK (LikeToKnowIt): Great for fashion, home, and beauty. You’ll need to apply, but once you’re in, it’s easy to use and super visual.
• Amazon Associates: Everyone shops on Amazon. The variety is unmatched.
• ShopMy: Focused on beauty and lifestyle. Great for curated content.
• ShareASale: Thousands of brands across all categories.
• Target Partners: Just as easy to use as Amazon, with that Target charm.
• Etsy Affiliate Program: Perfect for promoting handmade or unique gifts.
• Impact and Rakuten: Ideal for those who want to scale up later on.

Don’t sign up for all of them at once. Pick one or two that fit your niche and get comfortable first.

Tips to Actually Make Money (Without Feeling Awkward)

You don’t need to become someone you’re not. In fact, that’s the fastest way to lose trust. Affiliate marketing works best when it’s real. Here’s how to make it work for you.

Be Yourself

If you’re a little messy and real, let that shine. If you’re polished and curated, own it. Your voice is your brand. The more authentic you are, the more people connect with you.

Tell the Story

Don’t just say, “Buy this shirt.” Say, “This shirt is so soft I wore it three days in a row and no one noticed.” When people know why you bought something and what you love about it, they’re more likely to trust your recommendation.

Show the Product in Action

Snap a pic. Make a quick video. Show yourself using it. The more people can picture it in their own life, the better.

Mix It In Naturally

Don’t turn your page into a 24/7 sale. Share your life, and let the products be part of the story. Think of affiliate links as accessories to your content, not the whole outfit.

Keep It Consistent

Your first post might earn nothing. Your fifth post might earn you four dollars. Your tenth post might make you seventy-eight dollars overnight from one link. The more consistent you are, the more the algorithm and the audience reward you.

Disclose Your Links

It’s legally required and builds trust. A simple “I may earn a small commission if you shop through this link” is more than enough.

Real Results Happen

People have made real money sharing what they already love. A skincare link that earns a few dollars. A bathroom vanity shared on Pinterest that brings in seventy-eight dollars. A kitchen island post that generates over a hundred. And these aren’t influencers—they’re regular people who decided to try it.

The best part? That little “ka-ching” sound from your phone when someone clicks your link and makes a purchase. It never gets old.

You’ve Got This

If you’ve ever told someone, “You’ve got to try this,” then you’re already halfway to being an affiliate marketer. This is not reserved for influencers or people with perfectly styled photos. It’s for moms, teachers, students, side hustlers, and anyone who likes to share what works.

Pick your thing. Choose your place. Share your stuff. Tag your link.

Then celebrate your first commission—even if it’s just thirty-seven cents. It means it’s working.

So go ahead. Be a little cringe. Post the outfit. Link the rug. Share the blender. Your future passive income self will thank you.