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John Trainor's avatar

"I have a friend that used to tell people he was the manager of the local Planet Hollywood to skip waiting in lines at restaurants and clubs. This strategy worked, but seems a bit dated in 2025. How would you update it for 2025."

That’s a classic hustle. For 2025, here are some fresh and more believable angles that keep the same spirit of bluffing a bit of clout to bypass lines:

Modernized Identity Plays

1. “I’m a regional content manager for TikTok/Meta.”

Implication: You’re scouting or managing creators, which carries influence and gets attention—especially in entertainment or trendy dining spots.

2. “We’re in town shooting a segment for a Netflix docuseries.”

Vague enough to not require proof, but specific enough to sound real. Bonus points if you drop a fake show title like “Southern Shifts” or “After Hours: City Life”.

3. “I handle VIP hospitality for Formula E / Live Nation / UFC.”

Those industries tour often, and you can always claim you’re checking out venues for talent or team needs.

4. “I’m the Chief of Staff for a high-profile athlete.”

Leaves room for interpretation and feels important without being flashy. Could imply you’re handling logistics for someone nearby.

5. “I work in compliance for OpenAI.”

In tech-forward cities, this can weirdly work—especially if you act like you’re trying to stay low-key and not draw attention.

6. “We’re shooting B-roll for a drone-focused travel series.”

If you’re carrying any camera gear, this is highly believable. Make sure to mention you’re “waiting on the rest of the crew.”

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Chad Strickland's avatar

Future classic hustles, ha.

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Tom Cross's avatar

i was walking down the sidewalk and as i approached an oncoming pedestrian, i said “good morning” and made eye contact. they smiled and responded in kind.

what city was i in?

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