Paid To Travel: The UGC Podcast

Maddy Garrett
  • 5.0 (29)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP

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.

  1. 6D AGO

    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 videoRaising her base rate to $500 minimum for organic usageHow she structures pricing for ad usage & whitelistingWhy negotiation strategy changed everythingOkay… 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 vettedCreators apply + are vettedNo race-to-the-bottom pricingMinimum rates enforcedStreamlined workflow inside the platformBuilt-in systems for ad usage tracking + metricsPassive 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: We’re going to Mexico 🇲🇽✨ Join me April 10–14 in Cancun for a 5-day UGC retreat to build your travel portfolio, shoot epic content, and get pro headshots + direct mentorship. Only 3 spots left. Doors close soon. Details + payment plans here DM me with questions @maddyoutdoors.coach  For Talented A.F. Podcast Production: Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com  Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach 3-Month UGC Accelerator Program: https://maddyoutdoors.mykajabi.com/ugc-accelerator Free UGC Masterclass: I've distilled my 3-month process into an easy-to-understand training that will give you clarity on your next steps to becoming a successful UGC creator, so you can work less and travel more! https://maddygarrett.myflodesk.com/accelerator-masterclas FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library

    1h 4m

  2. FEB 16

    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 dealsWhy raising your “floor” is key to earning moreHow tracking your time helps you scale fasterThe secret to consistent income: returning clientsSystems that help content creators grow to $10K monthsMexico 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. 🌊✨ We’re going to Mexico 🇲🇽✨ Join me April 10–14 in Cancun for a 5-day UGC retreat to build your travel portfolio, shoot epic content, and get pro headshots + direct mentorship. Only 3 spots left. Doors close soon. Details + payment plans here DM me with questions @maddyoutdoors.coach  For Talented A.F. Podcast Production: Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com  Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach 3-Month UGC Accelerator Program: https://maddyoutdoors.mykajabi.com/ugc-accelerator Free UGC Masterclass: I've distilled my 3-month process into an easy-to-understand training that will give you clarity on your next steps to becoming a successful UGC creator, so you can work less and travel more! https://maddygarrett.myflodesk.com/accelerator-masterclas FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library

    29 min

  3. FEB 9

    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 afterWhy inconsistent income is normal in UGC (and how to not spiral when it happens)The biggest mindset shifts that helped them keep goingHow pitching, negotiating, and confidence evolve over timeTurning one-off UGC deals into long-term, repeat clientsHow to build a UGC business with 5–10 hours a weekThe truth about getting paid to travel through content creationWhat they’d tell themselves if they were just starting out againThis 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 UGCTheir biggest UGC deals so farHow many hours they’re actually workingTheir 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 We’re going to Mexico 🇲🇽✨ Join me April 10–14 in Cancun for a 5-day UGC retreat to build your travel portfolio, shoot epic content, and get pro headshots + direct mentorship. Only 3 spots left. Doors close soon. Details + payment plans here DM me with questions @maddyoutdoors.coach  For Talented A.F. Podcast Production: Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com  Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach 3-Month UGC Accelerator Program: https://maddyoutdoors.mykajabi.com/ugc-accelerator Free UGC Masterclass: I've distilled my 3-month process into an easy-to-understand training that will give you clarity on your next steps to becoming a successful UGC creator, so you can work less and travel more! https://maddygarrett.myflodesk.com/accelerator-masterclas FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library

    57 min

  4. FEB 2

    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 creatorHow imposter syndrome shows up when you start pitchingThe subconscious beliefs that make you doubt your worth and pricingWhy rejection is actually part of the job (and how to build resilience fast)How your beliefs directly affect how often you pitch — and your resultsThe mindset shift that helps you show up consistently, even when brands say noWhy success in UGC isn’t about one “yes,” but about becoming resilientThis Perfect for you if you are: A UGC creator scared to start pitching brandsA content creator struggling with imposter syndromeA travel influencer wanting to land paid UGC dealsAnyone interested in becoming a UGC coach or building a sustainable UGC businessYou got this!! 3 We’re going to Mexico 🇲🇽✨ Join me April 10–14 in Cancun for a 5-day UGC retreat to build your travel portfolio, shoot epic content, and get pro headshots + direct mentorship. Only 3 spots left. Doors close soon. Details + payment plans here DM me with questions @maddyoutdoors.coach  For Talented A.F. Podcast Production: Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com  Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach 3-Month UGC Accelerator Program: https://maddyoutdoors.mykajabi.com/ugc-accelerator Free UGC Masterclass: I've distilled my 3-month process into an easy-to-understand training that will give you clarity on your next steps to becoming a successful UGC creator, so you can work less and travel more! https://maddygarrett.myflodesk.com/accelerator-masterclas FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library

    18 min

  5. JAN 26

    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 FlakeWe’re going to Mexico 🇲🇽✨ Join me April 10–14 in Cancun for a 5-day UGC retreat to build your travel portfolio, shoot epic content, and get pro headshots + direct mentorship. Only 3 spots left. Doors close soon. Details + payment plans here DM me with questions @maddyoutdoors.coach  For Talented A.F. Podcast Production: Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com  Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach 3-Month UGC Accelerator Program: https://maddyoutdoors.mykajabi.com/ugc-accelerator Free UGC Masterclass: I've distilled my 3-month process into an easy-to-understand training that will give you clarity on your next steps to becoming a successful UGC creator, so you can work less and travel more! https://maddygarrett.myflodesk.com/accelerator-masterclas FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library

    27 min

  6. JAN 19

    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 newHow content creators and UGC creators can land non-product dealsHow to get paid to travel with hotels, Airbnbs, and tourism boardsThe real secret to turning random deals into consistent incomeWhere to find brands looking for UGC (even outside of Bento)The most effective UGC tips for pitching in 2026Passive platforms where brands come to youHow 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 experienceUGC 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: @onbentoTikTok: @onbentoWebsite: Onbento🎧 Episodes Mentioned Episode 12: Airbnb & Hotel Content Creation with EmmaEpisode 18: How to Make Consistent Four Figures with UGCWe’re going to Mexico 🇲🇽✨ Join me April 10–14 in Cancun for a 5-day UGC retreat to build your travel portfolio, shoot epic content, and get pro headshots + direct mentorship. Only 3 spots left. Doors close soon. Details + payment plans here DM me with questions @maddyoutdoors.coach  For Talented A.F. Podcast Production: Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com  Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach 3-Month UGC Accelerator Program: https://maddyoutdoors.mykajabi.com/ugc-accelerator Free UGC Masterclass: I've distilled my 3-month process into an easy-to-understand training that will give you clarity on your next steps to becoming a successful UGC creator, so you can work less and travel more! https://maddygarrett.myflodesk.com/accelerator-masterclas FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library

    34 min

  7. JAN 14

    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 numbersHow 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 SelfHow UGC fits into your wealth goals as a content creatorTurning manifestation into strategy with quarterly milestonesHow to break big goals into small, doable action stepsWhy alignment matters more than hustle (especially for creators)How to reward yourself and stay motivated all year longThis 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 UGCQuit your job as a content creatorHave a paid-for trip through brand dealsOr simply create more ease and time freedomThis 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 ✨ We’re going to Mexico 🇲🇽✨ Join me April 10–14 in Cancun for a 5-day UGC retreat to build your travel portfolio, shoot epic content, and get pro headshots + direct mentorship. Only 3 spots left. Doors close soon. Details + payment plans here DM me with questions @maddyoutdoors.coach  For Talented A.F. Podcast Production: Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com  Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach 3-Month UGC Accelerator Program: https://maddyoutdoors.mykajabi.com/ugc-accelerator Free UGC Masterclass: I've distilled my 3-month process into an easy-to-understand training that will give you clarity on your next steps to becoming a successful UGC creator, so you can work less and travel more! https://maddygarrett.myflodesk.com/accelerator-masterclas FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library

    19 min

  8. 12/29/2025

    36: How to Land Paid Stays Without Being an Influencer

    Today we are sharing our most POPULAR episode of 2025 with Emma—Airbnb content creator and social media manager—who went from free stays to fully booked and fully paid… all without a massive following or photography degree.  If you're ready to land paid stays, build your travel creator portfolio, and break into the UGC (user-generated content) world—this one’s PACKED with actionable tips.  In This Episode: Exactly how she landed her first free and then paid Airbnb staysWhy professional photography isn't required to get started (but what helps!)What kind of content packages actually convert—and what she charges 💸How to stand out when pitching Airbnbs (spoiler: stop copying and pasting bad DMs 🙃)The difference between UGC for Airbnbs vs. hotelsWhy adding social media management can 2X your income as a creatorWhat Emma would do step-by-step if she were starting over todayEmma and I break down the mindset + game plan to: Build your portfolio (even with no experience)Pitch with confidence and intentionMove from free stays → paid packages Connect with Emma: Website: elevatedescapesmgmt.comInstagram: @eiffelemma + @elevatedescapesmgmt We’re going to Mexico 🇲🇽✨ Join me April 10–14 in Cancun for a 5-day UGC retreat to build your travel portfolio, shoot epic content, and get pro headshots + direct mentorship. Only 3 spots left. Doors close soon. Details + payment plans here DM me with questions @maddyoutdoors.coach  For Talented A.F. Podcast Production: Follow: @yourgirlmedia Find us: www.yourgirlmedia.com  Follow Me on Instagram: @maddyoutdoors.coach 3-Month UGC Accelerator Program: https://maddyoutdoors.mykajabi.com/ugc-accelerator Free UGC Masterclass: I've distilled my 3-month process into an easy-to-understand training that will give you clarity on your next steps to becoming a successful UGC creator, so you can work less and travel more! https://maddygarrett.myflodesk.com/accelerator-masterclas FREE 50+ UGC Ad Examples Library

    52 min
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5
out of 5
29 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Maddy Garrett
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    44
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Paid To Travel: The UGC Podcast
  • Show Website
    Paid To Travel: The UGC Podcast

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