Paid To Travel: The UGC Podcast

36: How to Land Paid Stays Without Being an Influencer

Maddy Garrett

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0:00 | 48:46

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 stays
  • Why 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. hotels
  • Why adding social media management can 2X your income as a creator
  • What Emma would do step-by-step if she were starting over today

Emma and I break down the mindset + game plan to:

  • Build your portfolio (even with no experience)
  • Pitch with confidence and intention
  • Move from free stays → paid packages

 Connect with Emma:


For Talented A.F. Podcast Production:

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

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