Welcome to the side of the internet where we get paid to travel. In this podcast, I will teach you how to create UGC content so you can work part-time creating fun content and spend the majority of your days exploring the world, rather than sitting at a desk. All while making MORE money than we did at our soul-sucking 9-5. Does that sound like a dream? Well, it’s my reality and it can be yours too. I’m your host Maddy Garrett, your UGC Travel Bestie . I help everyday people just like you start their own UGC digital nomad business so that they can achieve this kind of life-changing freedom, too. I’ve taught over 2,000 students in my Masterclasses, Programs, and 1:1 Coaching, and I educate my audience of 40,000+ ambitious dreamers daily on social media. So tune in every week so you can quit your job and start getting paid to travel.
What if one of the most controversial UGC trends right now could actually help you make money as a creator? Canvas UGC has been blowing up across TikTok and creator communities, but opinions are all over the place. Some creators swear by it. Others think it's ruining the UGC industry. So what's the truth? In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly what Canvas UGC is, how it works, why brands are hiring creators for it, and whether it's actually worth your time if you're trying to become a UGC creator or make money with UGC. We'll talk about the real pay structure, the pros and cons, who Canvas UGC is best for, and why I think the conversation around it is a lot more nuanced than people make it seem. Whether you're interested in travel UGC, UGC apps, tech UGC, or just looking for new ways to land creator opportunities, this episode will help you decide if Canvas UGC belongs in your business strategy. In This Episode, We Cover: What Canvas UGC actually is and how it works Why brands are paying creators to post 30–60 videos per month The reality behind Canvas UGC rates and compensation How bonuses, commissions, and viral content can impact earnings Why beginners are often drawn to Canvas UGC opportunities The biggest pros and cons of the Canvas UGC model How Canvas UGC can help you improve your content creation skills faster Why some creators think Canvas UGC is a scam How Canvas UGC compares to traditional UGC rates Why tech brands are investing heavily in Canvas UGC How travel UGC creators can use Canvas UGC while working remotely My honest opinion on whether Canvas UGC is worth pursuing Key Takeaways ✨ More content isn't always better content. ✨ Canvas UGC can be a great learning opportunity for newer creators. ✨ Performance-based pay creates both opportunity and risk. ✨ Consistency and retainers can make Canvas UGC appealing for some creators. ✨ Advanced creators may earn more through traditional UGC deals with guaranteed rates. ✨ Your life should be bigger than your business. This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
55: From $1K to $6K Months: How Jess Built a Full-Time UGC Creator Business
What happens when you stick with UGC long enough to let it actually work? Today's episode is a special one because Jess is back on the podcast for a one-year update, and honestly... so much has changed. When Jess first came on the podcast (Episode 13), she had made about $5,000 total from UGC and was averaging around $1,000/month. She was still working as a massage therapist, trying to balance two businesses, and figuring out if becoming a UGC creator could really turn into something sustainable. Fast forward a year later, and she's officially left her job, built a roster of returning clients, signed a $6,250 month, and created a business that gives her the freedom to travel, perform in a dance company, and actually enjoy her life. If you're in that phase where you're wondering if all the pitching, learning, and showing up is worth it, this episode is going to be the encouragement you need. In This Episode, We Talk About: ✨ How Jess went from "dabbling" in UGC to doing it full-time ✨ The mindset shifts that helped her push through imposter syndrome ✨ Why consistency matters more than trying to grow overnight ✨ How personalized pitching is helping her land more UGC brand deals ✨ The exact changes she made that helped her start signing higher-paying projects ✨ Her biggest brand deal to date ($2,250 for one package) ✨ The month she signed over $6,000 in new business ✨ Why returning clients completely changed her confidence and income ✨ How she's creating a business that supports the lifestyle she actually wants ✨ The reality of balancing UGC, creativity, travel, and life. Resources mentioned: Bento: automated pitching for content creators Connect with Jess Want to follow Jess's journey? Instagram: @bodyworkbae UGC Portfolio Loved This Episode? If your goal is to become a UGC creator , learn how to get paid to travel , build a sustainable travel UGC business, and create more freedom in your life, make sure you're subscribed to the podcast so you never miss an episode. And if this episode inspired you, take a screenshot, share it on Instagram, and tag us so we can see you're listening 💛 This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
54: Listen to This First Before You Quit Your UGC Business
Feeling like your UGC business isn't working? This episode is your sign to keep going. If you're in the first few months of building your UGC business and questioning whether you're cut out for this, I need you to hear this: Don't quit yet. I know it feels frustrating when you're putting in the work, sending pitches, building your portfolio, creating content, and not seeing the results you expected. But what if the only thing standing between you and success is time? In today's episode, I'm sharing the reminder every new UGC creator needs to hear when they're stuck in the messy middle—the phase where you're working hard, learning fast, and wondering if it's all worth it. In This Episode, We Cover: Why the first 3–6 months of building a UGC business can feel so challenging The truth about profitability and how most businesses take longer than you think to make money Why almost every successful UGC creator experiences a slow start The skills you're building right now (even if the money hasn't shown up yet) How consistency and resilience separate successful creators from those who quit too soon Why your UGC journey will look different from everyone else's The mindset shift that can help you stay committed when things feel hard My challenge for you: give yourself two more months before you decide it's not working This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
53: UGC Taxes 101: Advice From A Tax Expert That Will Save You THOUSANDS
If taxes make you want to close your laptop and pretend your bank account doesn’t exist… this episode is for you . In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with Tommy from Prime to break down all things taxes for UGC creators, freelancers, and content creators in a way that actually makes sense. We’re talking LLCs, write-offs, travel deductions, gifted collaborations, how much money you should actually be setting aside for taxes, and the biggest mistakes creators make that end up costing them thousands. Whether you’re a brand new UGC creator or already making consistent income online, this episode will help you feel way more confident going into tax season and managing your money as a self-employed creator. In this episode, we cover: The biggest tax mistakes UGC creators make When to form an LLC as a content creator How to track expenses as a freelancer Tax tips for content creators and influencers Common tax deductions for UGC creators How travel write-offs actually work What counts as a business expense Taxes on gifted collaborations and PR packages How to handle PayPal, Venmo, and multiple income streams Why brands ask creators for W-9s How much money to set aside for taxes as a freelancer Business credit cards, points, and using credit strategically Tax strategies creators can use to save money Resources Mentioned: Keeper Tax QuickBooks Xero Prime Corporate Services Connect with Tommy + Prime : Find them on Instagram at Prime Corporate Services for more tax tips for freelancers, business setup help, and creator finance resources. Want more Travel Content Advice? Make sure to listen to the Travel Creator Podcast This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
52: Stop Obsessing Over Your Hooks As a UGC Creator ( Do this Instead )
Today I’m talking about why obsessing over viral hooks, viral hooks for Instagram, and how to go viral is actually hurting so many creators. Because honestly? A crazy good hook means nothing if the rest of your content falls flat. And I see this all the time — especially in the UGC creator space. I’m breaking down why focusing only on hooks is basically the same thing as love bombing in dating, how this mindset shows up in your UGC creator business, and why your pitch is NOT the thing you should be obsessing over most. In this episode, I talk about: Why focusing too much on viral hooks can backfire The problem with “hook-first” content strategies Why going viral means nothing without good content behind it How viral hooks for Instagram relate to dating (lol) Why your pitch is just the “hook” of your UGC creator business What brands actually look for when hiring a UGC creator Why your portfolio matters more than your pitch The hard truth about building a long-term UGC creator career How to become the kind of creator brands genuinely want to work with I also share why I think so many creators are focusing on the wrong things right now — and what I’d focus on instead if I wanted a successful, sustainable business as a UGC creator. If you’ve been stressing over how to go viral, trying to write the perfect pitch, or searching for the best UGC creator hooks… this episode is your reminder that becoming really good at what you do will always outperform gimmicks. Make sure you’re subscribed to the Paid to Travel podcast for new episodes every Monday, and if this episode resonated with you, share it with another creator who needs this reminder too 💌 This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
51: You Can’t Build a Dream UGC Business If You’re Afraid of THIS
I just got back from hosting my first-ever travel UGC retreat in Mexico , and it shifted a lot for me not just in my business, but in how I see myself and what I want next. Being in a room with women who get it who are building their UGC businesses, chasing freedom, and thinking differently was such a powerful reminder of how important it is to surround yourself with people on the same path. We created so much content, built out travel UGC portfolios, and had real, in-the-moment coaching that you just can’t replicate online. But beyond the retreat itself, this experience brought up something deeper for me… I’ve been feeling this pull to expand—beyond just UGC, into helping creators with creator monetization, coaching, and building businesses that actually align with their lives . And if I’m being honest? That’s felt scary. Because when people know you for one thing, it’s easy to feel like you have to stay in that box. In this episode, I’m talking about what it looks like to move through that fear, stop worrying about what people think, and actually go after the things you want—even if it feels uncomfortable, cringe, or uncertain. What I Talk About in This Episode: What it was like hosting my first travel UGC retreat Why in-person experiences can completely change your growth as a content creator How we built out travel UGC portfolios in just a few days The internal fears that come up when you want to evolve your brand Why you can’t build a successful business while trying to please everyone Expanding into creator monetization beyond just brand deals Following what actually lights you up (even when it’s scary) If this episode resonated with you, I would love to hear from you. Send me a DM and tell me what hit for you! And if you’re a UGC creator who’s been thinking about adding coaching, launching a digital product, or expanding your income streams, you can apply for a 1:1 intensive with me here: 👉 Book an Intensive with Me We’ll map out your offers, your positioning, and how to build a business that actually aligns with your life. This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
50: Is Cold Pitching Dead? What's Working for UGC Creators Landing Brand Deals in 2026
🏔 Ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months? Sign Up For UGC Basecamp—podcast listeners get 25% OFF your membership: https://app.heartbeat.chat/ugcmastermind/invitation?code=4AFJA2&promo_code=SAVE25#landing-page Today we’re getting real about what’s actually working right now when it comes to cold pitching, landing brand deals, and monetization as a content creator . I’m recording this from my hotel room in Edinburgh and while I’ve been out here living my best life… my business has still been WORKING. Like, thousands of dollars in inbound UGC deals just casually landing in my inbox. So let’s talk about it. What You’ll Learn in This Episode The exact breakdown of how I get paid: inbounds, outbound, and repeat clients How to build a personal brand as a content creator (without becoming an influencer) Simple ways to get inbound UGC deals while you’re literally off living your life How to use social media to find UGC opportunities daily The best keywords + strategies to train your algorithm to show you paid creator jobs Why you should still apply to opportunities—even when there’s tons of competition The truth about UGC monetization and why there’s no “one right way” to do this How to approach cold emailing brands (templates vs personalized pitches) My current system for consistent outreach using Bento + VA support What I would do if I were starting over as a UGC creator in 2026 How to create a sustainable strategy to consistently land brand deal 💫 Want to stay consistent with cold pitching and actually land more brand deals? I use Bento to send pitches in the background (yes, even while I’m on vacation), and it’s a game changer for UGC monetization. Use code MADDY for a discount and start getting those emails out consistently. Need help figuring out what to post as a content creator? Go listen to The Travel Creator Podcast —it’s all about making content creation easier and more strategic so you can land more brand deals. This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
49: I Had a Bad Month in UGC.. Here’s What I Did Instead of Spiraling
🏔 Ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months? Sign Up For UGC Basecamp—podcast listeners get 25% OFF your membership: https://app.heartbeat.chat/ugcmastermind/invitation?code=4AFJA2&promo_code=SAVE25#landing-page Today we’re getting real about what actually went down in Q1 of my UGC journey—and the mindset shift that kept me from spiraling. If you’re trying to land paid brand deals, become a UGC creator, or build a content creator business that lets you travel for free—this episode is a MUST listen. ✨ What We’re Getting Into: The behind-the-scenes mistake that tanked my pitch response rate (like… 2% 😅) Why I didn’t spiral—even though I easily could have The truth about landing deals (spoiler: perfection is NOT required) A mindset exercise that will literally change how you show up in your business The Situation (aka what went wrong) In Q1, I wasn’t landing as many UGC deals from pitching. Which was weird… because pitching is usually a big part of how I land paid stays and brand deals. So I dug into the data and realized: 👉 My VA had been sending ~1,000 pitches 👉 But ONLY to hotels, tourism boards, and experiences 👉 Using a pitch meant for product-based brands Yeah… not ideal, so I am going to help you today with a 3 step mindset change to keep you positive and going in your UGC journey. Because real talk, being a content creator is not just about aesthetics and brand deals, it’s about resilience. The difference between people who “make it” and people who don’t? 👉 They don’t spiral over every setback. They adapt. They adjust. They move. 🎧 Loved this episode? Share it with a friend, screenshot it, and tag me—let’s normalize the real side of building a UGC business. See you next Monday 💋 This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
48: My Q1 UGC Income Report: $10K Working 8 Hours/Week
🏔 Ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months? Sign Up For UGC Basecamp— podcast listeners get 25% OFF your membership: https://app.heartbeat.chat/ugcmastermind/invitation?code=4AFJA2&promo_code=SAVE25#landing-page In today’s episode, I’m breaking down my full Q1 income as a content creator—every deal, every brand, where it came from, and how much I charged. And the best part? I did this working part-time hours. We’re talking UGC, brand deals, paid stays, inbound leads, and how this all adds up to a $10K+ quarter… without grinding 24/7. Let’s get into it. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How I made $10,420 in Q1 as a UGC content creator The exact breakdown of brand deals, deliverables, and pricing Where my deals came from (inbounds, returning clients, pitching) How I structure ad usage + monetization in my contracts Why I don’t do UGC full-time—and how I still make great money The role of paid stays + gifted experiences in your income My average hourly rate (this might surprise you 👀) Let’s Talk Numbers (Because I Know You Want Them): January: $2,870 (+ a gifted resort stay) February: $3,175 March: $4,375 Total Q1 Income: $10,420 Avg. Hourly Rate: ~$110/hour Working ~8 hours/week. 🎙️ 👉 Want real travel creator strategies (not viral fluff)? Check out the Travel Creator Podcast with Laura Haley. This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
47: The BEST Ways to Become a Full Time Travel Creator (So You Can Quit Your Job)
If you’ve ever wondered how the hell creators actually make money without having 100K followers and are able to do this full time? This episode is your cheat code. Today is a episode swap with Laura Haley from the Travel Creator Podcast to talk about monetization as a content creator — UGC, affiliate, influencer partnerships, group trips, digital products… all of it. And she’s here to tell you exactly what works right now — especially if you’re a travel creator trying to make this your full-time thing. We dive into: The REAL ways content creators make money Maddy breaks down every single path she’s used over the years: UGC (user-generated content) Micro-influencer partnerships Affiliate marketing Hosting group trips Digital products + coaching If you’ve been thinking you need a massive audience to monetize — this episode will change your mind. Why UGC is the BEST place to start (especially for travel creators) Growing into bigger monetization as content creators Are group trips worth it for travel creators? Why Digital products are the most underrated monetization tool Connect with Laura: Travel Creator Podcast Follow her @travelcontentwriting Check our her membership: Travel Content Business Plan to get one step closer to quitting your job to become a full time content creator This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
46: Use This Stupid Simple Strategy to Double Your UGC Income Overnight
Want a super simple way to increase your income as a UGC creator and land bigger brand deals? In this quick tip episode, I share a powerful strategy for creators who are already booking work and want to scale their UGC business, make more per client, and move toward becoming a full time creator. If your goal is to land paid brand deals, get paid to travel, and grow your creator income, this one small change can make a big difference. Here is my UGC Rate Card & Package Generator, which helps creators: https://maddyoutdoors.mykajabi.com/offers/jdzGVFRe/checkout • Set their base rates • Price add-ons and usage • Build brand packages • Feel confident pitching brands If you want help structuring your rates and landing higher paying UGC brand deals, grab the generator here is the UGC Rate Card and Package Generator This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
45: These 3 Things will Get You to $5k Months as A UGC Creator (+ New UGC Community Launch)!!
Join UGC Basecamp as a founding member (discount code in episode!!) Ever see a creator say they made $3K–$5K in a month with UGC and immediately think… what am I doing wrong? If you’re trying to grow as a UGC creator , land consistent brand deals , or build a sustainable content creation business (especially in Travel UGC ), this episode is your reminder that there is no magic hack — but there are three things that will change everything. In This Episode I break down the 3 C’s that help UGC creators scale their business : 1. Confidence Stop chasing the “one hack” for success. The real key is building the mindset of a $5K+ per month UGC creator and trusting your own strategy. 2. Consistency UGC is a business. That means showing up to pitch brands, film content, and work on your content creation even when motivation is low. 3. Community Trying to grow a UGC business alone is hard. Having other creators for accountability, feedback, and support can make the difference between staying stuck and scaling. ✨ Sign Up For UGC Basecamp – My new membership designed to help creators grow through confidence, consistency, and community . Inside you’ll get: Weekly pitching hours Group coaching calls Accountability partners Content review sessions Creator community + in-person meetups Special Launch Offer You can join UGC Basecamp as a founding member and get 40% off for life . Use code: SAVE40 Offer ends March 31, 2026 . This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
44: How to Get a Free Vacation this Summer Using UGC
Want to get paid to travel and lock in free Airbnb stays or free hotel stays by this summer without being an influencer? Today, I’m giving you the exact 5-step method I use as a content creator to travel for free . We are talking about the 5 steps to get a free vacation with UGC and content creation. I’m walking you through the exact system I use to land free stays — and this is the same strategy my students use to secure gifted trips all over the world. We’re covering: How to create hotel/Airbnb sample content (even if you’ve never done it before) How to choose which stays to pitch How to build a high-converting pitch deck (yes, I’m giving you the template) Where to find properties to contact What to say in your DM + email pitch How to structure your content offer so it’s a fair value exchange Download my FREE Pitch Template and use it to land your next paid stay. This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
43: How This UGC Creator 9x’d Her Income in 6 Months: Interview w/ Student Goldie Choi
Join the waitlist for Pando - a high-quality UGC marketplace designed for both brands and creators. If you’re a UGC creator wondering whether this can actually turn into a real business… this one’s for you. Six months ago, Goldie was capping at $2K months. Last February? She made $1,350. This February? She’s sitting at $9,890. Same creator. Same niche. Different systems. Different boundaries. Different mindset. In today’s episode, I’m re-interviewing Goldie (go listen to Episode 17 first if you haven’t 👀) and we’re breaking down exactly how she scaled her UGC business , raised her rates, landed retainers, and built real stability as a full-time content creator . What We Talk About 💸 From $50 Videos to $500 Minimums Goldie shares: Starting at $50–$200 per video Raising her base rate to $500 minimum for organic usage How she structures pricing for ad usage & whitelisting Why negotiation strategy changed everything Okay… here’s the fun part. Goldie and I are building Pando — a high-quality UGC marketplace designed for both brands and creators. What makes it different? Brands apply + are vetted Creators apply + are vetted No race-to-the-bottom pricing Minimum rates enforced Streamlined workflow inside the platform Built-in systems for ad usage tracking + metrics Passive discovery (brands find you — not constant applying) It’s the platform we wish existed when we started our UGC businesses. ✨ Join the waitlist here below to be first in. Early creators will get perks. Coming to UGC Creator Connect? We’ll also be at UGC Creator Connect in Utah in March. Grab your ticket (link here). Connect With Goldie Website: goldieinspired.co Instagram: @goldieinspired.ugc // @goldie.ventures This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
42: The 5 Things $10k/m UGC Creators Do
If you want to get paid to travel, land consistent paid brand deals, and scale your income as a content creator, this episode is for you. I’m breaking down the five real shifts that took me (and my students) from inconsistent $2K months to consistent $10K months with UGC. These aren’t hacks — these are the strategic moves that actually grow your business. We talk about how to build a portfolio that attracts higher-paying brands, why raising your rates is essential, and the exact systems that help you scale without burning out. I’m also sharing mindset shifts, UGC tips, and business strategies that separate beginner creators from full-time earners. If you’ve been stuck in inconsistent income or ready to level up your paid brand deals, this episode will show you what to focus on next. In this episode: How to build social proof that attracts better brand deals Why raising your “floor” is key to earning more How tracking your time helps you scale faster The secret to consistent income: returning clients Systems that help content creators grow to $10K months Mexico UGC Retreat, Anyone? 🌴 Guyssss I’m hosting a UGC Retreat in Mexico this April and it’s literally designed to help you build your travel portfolio while living it up with the girlies. We’ll be shooting content, staying at a stunning Airbnb, going on adventures, and creating the kind of assets that actually help you land travel partnerships. If you’re serious about leveling up as a content creator and stepping into your “paid to travel” era, come join us. Spots are limited (and already filling), so grab yours before they’re gone. If you have questions, DM me on Instagram @maddyoutdoors.coach I’d love to chat. 🌊✨ This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
41: Consistency is Key: The Real Stories of 3 Creators Who are 6+ Months into their UGC Journeys
Today I’m doing something I’ve never done before: a group interview with three of my past students who are actively building real, sustainable UGC businesses. We’re pulling back the curtain on what the UGC journey actually looks like — the wins, the dry spells, the imposter syndrome, the “is this even working?” moments… and the breakthroughs that happen when you don’t quit. If you’re a content creator, aspiring UGC coach, or someone who wants to turn content creation into paid travel and consistent income , this episode is a must-listen. ✨ What We Cover in This Episode How Morgan, Hailey, and Rachel actually got started with UGC (no overnight success stories here) What it feels like to land your first paid UGC deal — and what happens after Why inconsistent income is normal in UGC (and how to not spiral when it happens) The biggest mindset shifts that helped them keep going How pitching, negotiating, and confidence evolve over time Turning one-off UGC deals into long-term, repeat clients How to build a UGC business with 5–10 hours a week The truth about getting paid to travel through content creation What they’d tell themselves if they were just starting out again This is a real conversation about building a UGC business brick by brick — not just highlight reels. 💸 Real Numbers, Real Growth You’ll hear exactly: How much they’re making monthly with UGC Their biggest UGC deals so far How many hours they’re actually working Their income goals for the year (and why they’re 100% achievable) Follow them on Instagram! Morgan: @mo_mindandspirit Rachel: @rachelfilmsthings or @hey_rayray Hailey: @diaryofawannabeworldtraveler or @creatorsocial.co This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
40: The Fear of Pitching to Brands and How to Overcome it by Training Your Subconscious
Today is a mindset episode. I’m breaking down why pitching feels so scary for so many UGC creators , what your subconscious is doing behind the scenes, and how to finally move past the fear that’s keeping you stuck. If you’re a content creator, travel influencer, or aspiring UGC creator who wants to start pitching brands confidently, this one’s a must-listen. In this episode, we get into: Why fear of pitching brands is completely normal as a UGC creator How imposter syndrome shows up when you start pitching The subconscious beliefs that make you doubt your worth and pricing Why rejection is actually part of the job (and how to build resilience fast) How your beliefs directly affect how often you pitch — and your results The mindset shift that helps you show up consistently, even when brands say no Why success in UGC isn’t about one “yes,” but about becoming resilient This Perfect for you if you are: A UGC creator scared to start pitching brands A content creator struggling with imposter syndrome A travel influencer wanting to land paid UGC deals Anyone interested in becoming a UGC coach or building a sustainable UGC business You got this!! <3 This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
39: Your 2026 Roadmap To Becoming A Full-Time UGC Creator: Month-By-Month Breakdown
If getting paid to travel as a UGC creator has been sitting on your vision board but you don’t actually know what to do month by month… this episode is your roadmap. Today I’m breaking down exactly what to focus on from now through the end of the year to become a full-time content creator — without burnout, overwhelm, or guessing what comes next. In this super practical episode, I’m walking you through a month-by-month plan to scale your UGC business and start making consistent four figures a month. Whether you’re brand new to UGC or already dabbling, this is the structure I wish I had when I was starting out. What We Cover in This Episode: If you’ve ever wondered: How do I actually become a full-time content creator? When should I start pitching brands? How do people get paid to travel with UGC? This episode answers all of that — step by step. Resources Mentioned: 📁 50+ UGC Ad Study Folder 🎥 Editing apps: InShot & CapCut 💻 UGC platforms: Popfly, Cohley, Billo, Insense, Backstage, Vizi, Vidlo, Collabstr, Fiverr 📧 Bento (email pitching platform) use code: MADDY 🎙 Fiverr UGC episode with Nate Flake This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
38: UGC Q&A: Most Common UGC Creator Questions Answered
Today I’m answering your most-asked UGC questions as we head into the next year — everything from getting comfortable on camera, landing hotel and Airbnb deals, andwhether AI is coming for our jobs. Let’s get into it. ✨ What We’re Covering How to stop feeling awkward on camera (without sounding like a robot) The easiest way to practice UGC when you’re brand new How content creators and UGC creators can land non-product deals How to get paid to travel with hotels, Airbnbs, and tourism boards The real secret to turning random deals into consistent income Where to find brands looking for UGC (even outside of Bento) The most effective UGC tips for pitching in 2026 Passive platforms where brands come to you How brands pay UGC creators (and if you need an LLC) Will AI replace UGC creators? (my honest take) Exactly how to build a portfolio with zero experience UGC Creator Connect Event in Utah: https://ugccreatorconnectevent.com/tickets?am_id=maddy993 🔍 Where to Find Brands Looking for UGC 👉 I use Bento to pitch brands efficiently and at scale. Check the show notes for my link to Bento to start pitching like a pro. BENTO AFFILATE CODE: >> https://app.onbento.com/?acode=MADDY Use the Code: MADDY Connect with Jaclyn and Bento: Instagram: @onbento TikTok: @onbento Website: Onbento 🎧 Episodes Mentioned Episode 12: Airbnb & Hotel Content Creation with Emma Episode 18: How to Make Consistent Four Figures with UGC This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
37: Goal Setting in 2026: Do This Exercise to Actually Hit Your Goals This Year
Manifestation without a plan is just a wish. If you’re serious about your 2026 goal setting, especially as a UGC creator, this episode will help you turn big dreams into actionable steps you can actually follow through on. If you’re someone who loves short-term wins but struggles with long-term planning (sameeee), this episode is for you. I’m sharing the goal-setting method I personally use to break big-picture dreams into quarterly milestones, weekly action steps, and realistic expectations , especially for UGC and content creators . We’re talking about how to set goals that align with the life you actually want , not just what you think you should want. In this episode, I cover: Why your 2026 goal setting should start with feelings , not numbers How to choose 3 core emotions to guide your goals (and avoid burnout) The 4 categories I use for intentional goal setting: Health, Wealth, Relationships, and Self How UGC fits into your wealth goals as a content creator Turning manifestation into strategy with quarterly milestones How to break big goals into small, doable action steps Why alignment matters more than hustle (especially for creators) How to reward yourself and stay motivated all year long This is about taking your manifestations and giving them structure—so you don’t wake up next November wondering where the year went. Whether your goal is to: Make consistent income with UGC Quit your job as a content creator Have a paid-for trip through brand deals Or simply create more ease and time freedom This episode will help you map it out in a way that feels grounded and achievable. If you loved this episode, don’t forget to rate, review, and share it with a fellow content creator who’s planning their 2026 goals right now ✨ This podcast was produced by Your Girl Media. Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com START HERE: For beginners looking for a clear roadmap to making your first $1,000+ with UGC. Learn all the fundamentals, build your portfolio, create great pitches, and land your first UGC deals. Join the 3-Month UGC Accelerator Course . SCALE HERE: For the intermediate to expert creators ready to start hitting consistent 4-figure months, without the burnout. Sign Up For UGC Basecamp —podcast listeners get 25% off for life (Code 'SAVE25'). Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library
