

UGC 101 - Build Your Content Creation Business
Nate Flake - UGC Creator & Coach
The podcast about all things User Generated Content! Whether you are a seasoned UGC pro or just starting UGC for the first time, this podcast is for you! You will learn from the best in the business as the guests are all UGC pros.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 10, 2025 • 1h 5min
Scaling From $5 Fiverr Gigs to Five-Figure Months with Freelance Big Sis Arbel Kimmick | EP 31
Wonder how creators actually scale from $5 gigs to five-figure months and what it really takes to get there?Nate sits down with Arbel Kimmick, the voice behind Freelance Big Sis and the UGC Fiverr Academy that's helped creators land brand deals. Arbel's been in the trenches since 2013, working on everything from web design to voiceovers before discovering UGC in 2022. She walks us through her entire journey; the wins, the pivots, and the lessons she learned by doing it messy first.Get a $100 discount on Arbel's UGC course and community using the code UGC101 - Join Here: UGC Fiverr Academy Chapters:00:07:57 – Losing Every Client After Moving States00:09:08 – Twenty Voiceover Orders Overnight00:10:09 – Both Fiverr Accounts Shutdown00:16:34 – Burnout From $5 Pricing00:21:00 – The Price Change That Destroyed Her Gig00:23:17 – Trying UGC for the First Time00:25:36 – First Five-Figure Month 00:27:17 – First Viral TikTok 00:31:15 – Launching Her First Guide and Course00:33:54 – Turning Social Media Into Multiple Income Streams00:41:19 – The Reason Fiverr Gigs Get DerankedIf you're building your Fiverr gig or wondering how to actually grow beyond your first few orders, this one's packed with practical advice. Arbel breaks down the three things that make or break a Fiverr gig, why editing at the wrong time can tank your impressions, and how to price yourself without scaring off clients. Arbel and Nate also dig into why diversifying your income streams matters, not just for money, but for momentum. It's a real honest conversation about the stuff that trips up most creators before they figure it out.By the end, you'll walk away with a clear plan for setting up multiple gigs, strategies for scaling without burning out, and the confidence to know that even when things slow down, you're building something that lasts. Arbel's story proves that consistency beats perfection every time, and that your next breakthrough might be one small tweak away.Listen now to discover the tactics behind $2 million in brand deals across Arbel's creator community Get a $100 discount on Arbel's UGC course and community using the code UGC101 - Join Here: UGC Fiverr AcademyDownload FREE GUIDE: 10 Steps to Becoming a UGC Creator from Scratch Join UGC Creator Connect — March 14, Park City UT → https://ugccreatorconnectevent.com MORE FROM NATE FLAKE Nate’s UGC Fiverr Pro Course + Community — use code PODCAST for 15% off: . https://stan.store/nateflakeugc/p/master-ugc-on-fiverr Connect with NateInstagram: @nateflakecreatesYouTube: UGC 101 PodcastContact / CollabsFor guest pitches, partnerships, or sponsorship inquiries.https://ugcbynate.com/

Dec 3, 2025 • 48min
Anti-Influencer Method: She Made $60K on TikTok Shop Without Going Viral with Meg the Creator | EP 30
Ever wonder if you need a huge following or perfect video skills to actually make money as a creator? Nate sits down with Megan (aka Meg the Creator), a working mom who went from small-town job hopper to full-time content creator without chasing viral fame or pretending to be an influencer.Megan breaks down what she calls the "anti-influencer method," a practical approach to making real money through UGC, Amazon reviews, and TikTok Shop. She started with zero followers, zero portfolio, and zero fancy gear.Chapters:00:08:20 - Beginners Quick Wins00:12:45 - Finding Products That Actually Make Money00:16:58 - Building Confidence as a Creator00:25:40 - How to Stand Out When Pitching00:29:55 - The Power of Retainers00:33:18 - Data Brands Actually Care About00:36:42 - The Reality of TikTok Shop00:39:58 - Evergreen Products That Never Stop Selling00:43:10 - Turning UGC Into Long-Term FreelancingWhat she did have was curiosity, consistency, and a willingness to figure it out as she went. Now she's built a thriving community where she helps everyday creators land their first paid gigs fast.If you've ever felt stuck wondering where to start, how to get confident on camera, or what brands actually want from creators, this conversation clears it all up. Megan walks through the exact platforms she used to land quick wins, the tools that helped her scale, and why agencies aren't as intimidating as you think.By the end, you'll see how getting started is simpler than you thought. Listen and learn how everyday products, simple setups, and consistent reps can build real momentum in the creator space.Connect with guest: https://megthecreator.com/Download FREE GUIDE: 10 Steps to Becoming a UGC Creator from Scratch Join UGC Creator Connect — March 14, Park City UT → https://ugccreatorconnectevent.com MORE FROM NATE FLAKE Nate’s UGC Fiverr Pro Course + Community — use code PODCAST for 15% off: . https://stan.store/nateflakeugc/p/master-ugc-on-fiverr Connect with NateInstagram: @nateflakecreatesYouTube: UGC 101 PodcastContact / CollabsFor guest pitches, partnerships, or sponsorship inquiries.https://ugcbynate.com/

Nov 26, 2025 • 57min
Creative Strategist Explains How to Get Brands to Hire You for UGC with Olivia Larsen | EP 29
Ever send a pitch or apply for a gig and wonder what actually happens on the other side?Nate sits down with Olivia Larsen to pull back the curtain on what brands and agencies really want from creators. Olivia went from working 12-hour overnight shifts at a veterinary ER to building a full-time UGC career and then landed on the other side of the table as a creative strategist at a marketing agency. Now she's the one hiring creators, reviewing portfolios, and deciding who gets the gig. Chapter:05:28 – Adding creative strategy to increase income07:23 – The test project brands require before hiring10:49 – The biggest misconception about creative strategy11:58 – What happens when an ad underperforms17:30 – The moment she realized talent presence makes or breaks ads22:14 – Why UGC creators must learn for the camera28:12 – What brands actually look for in your portfolio36:32 – The entitlement problem agencies deal with dailyIf you've ever wondered why some creators land consistent work while others struggle to book their first paid gig, this conversation delivers. Olivia breaks down the real expectations around on-camera presence, usage rights, portfolio quality, and communication. She also gets honest about the entitlement she's seeing from newer creators and why understanding your leverage matters more than copying someone else's rates.They tackle the stuff nobody wants to say out loud: why being "authentic" isn't enough, what makes a creative strategist want to work with you again, and how to stop pricing yourself out of opportunities before you've even built a reputation. By the end, you'll understand exactly what separates creators who get hired once from creators who become go-to talent for agencies and brands. Whether you're just starting out or trying to scale, Olivia's brand-side perspective will help you see your work through a different lens. Listen and learn how to position yourself as someone brands actually want to work with and NOT just another creator in the inbox.Connect with Olivia: http://instagram.com/larsen.creatives/?hl=enDownload FREE GUIDE: 10 Steps to Becoming a UGC Creator from Scratch Join UGC Creator Connect — March 14, Park City UT → https://ugccreatorconnectevent.com MORE FROM NATE FLAKE Nate’s UGC Fiverr Pro Course + Community — use code PODCAST for 15% off: . https://stan.store/nateflakeugc/p/master-ugc-on-fiverr Connect with NateInstagram: @nateflakecreatesYouTube: UGC 101 PodcastContact / CollabsFor guest pitches, partnerships, or sponsorship inquiries.https://ugcbynate.com/

Nov 19, 2025 • 47min
How This Couple Built a UGC and TikTok Shop Business Together After Influencer Burnout with Ari and Abdul | EP 28
Wondering if doing UGC with your partner would be amazing... or a recipe for disaster?Nate sits down with Ari and Abdul, a creator couple who went from burned-out micro-influencers to thriving UGC entrepreneurs. Ari shares how she discovered UGC three years ago when she was desperate to step away from constantly sharing her life online, and how she eventually convinced Abdul to join her. Their story is honest, funny, and refreshingly real. From bribing their kids to be in videos to figuring out how to read the same brief completely differently. Nate even shares how his 14-year-old daughter started her own Fiverr gig and is already booking paid work.If you've ever felt stuck between wanting creative freedom and needing consistent income, this conversation is for you.Chapters:05:30 - When We Realized We’re the Niche06:05 - Life Assets That Brands Pay For07:17 - Camera Presence Without Cringe10:40 - Kids, Bribes, and Brand-Building13:58 - Quitting the Influencer Hamster Wheel16:20 - Freedom in Scripts, Not Self22:05 - The $0.50 for 2M Views Wake-Up31:00 - Cracking TikTok Shop 40:55 - Couple Workflow That WorksAri and Abdul break down how UGC gave them the financial breathing room that influencing never did without the pressure of always being "on" or performing for an audience. They also dive into their recent TikTok Shop success after months of testing and almost giving up, and why the skills you build as a UGC creator are the exact ones that unlock other income streams.By the end, you'll understand how to turn your partnership into a competitive advantage, how to avoid the drama when filming together, and why starting "messy" beats waiting for perfection every single time.Listen and learn why brands love hiring creator pairs who bring different perspectives, natural chemistry, and flexibility. https://www.instagram.com/dulla.and.ari/?hl=enDownload FREE GUIDE: 10 Steps to Becoming a UGC Creator from Scratch Join UGC Creator Connect — March 14, Park City UT → https://ugccreatorconnectevent.com MORE FROM NATE FLAKE Nate’s UGC Fiverr Pro Course + Community — use code PODCAST for 15% off: . https://stan.store/nateflakeugc/p/master-ugc-on-fiverr Connect with NateInstagram: @nateflakecreatesYouTube: UGC 101 PodcastContact / CollabsFor guest pitches, partnerships, or sponsorship inquiries.https://ugcbynate.com/

Nov 12, 2025 • 1h 4min
You're NOT Too Old to Start UGC with Over 50-Year-Old Top Rated Fiverr Seller Dave Johnson | EP 27
Think you're too old to start a new career or learn a digital skill?Nate sits down with Dave Johnson to talk about what it's really like to start from zero when you're not in your twenties anymore. Dave is a grandfather of six, and just six months ago he was working a physically demanding roadside assistance job he knew he couldn't keep doing. Today, he's a top-rated UGC creator on Fiverr, working full-time from home, charging $300+ per video, and landing deals worth over a thousand bucks. No fancy camera. No big following. Just a willingness to figure it out one step at a time.Chapters:06:58 – When It Finally Clicked07:57 – Editing Fear to Simple System12:45 – First Gig Revisions, First Lesson29:06 – Overdeliver, Organize, Raise Rates34:25 – The Notion Leak Pricing Hack39:49 – Never Late, Top Rated Happens41:58 – Why UGC Works After 5055:38 – Land a $1,100 GigDave's story doesn’t include going viral or some overnight success, but just showing up, learning the basics, and proving your value even when the tech feels intimidating and the camera makes you nervous. He’s real, his advice is practical, and his wins happened faster than most people think is possible. If you've ever worried that you're too old to pivot, that technology isn't "for you," or that brands only want young creators, this episode will challenge every one of those beliefs. Dave breaks down how he got comfortable on camera, how he learned editing, and how he went from undercharging to confidently negotiating $1,100 deals all while competing with creators half his age.Listen and learn the moment Dave realized his age wasn't a disadvantage, it was his edge. Connect with Dave: https://www.instagram.com/ugcbydave/Download FREE GUIDE: 10 Steps to Becoming a UGC Creator from Scratch Join UGC Creator Connect — March 14, Park City UT → https://ugccreatorconnectevent.com MORE FROM NATE FLAKE Nate’s UGC Fiverr Pro Course + Community — use code PODCAST for 15% off: . https://stan.store/nateflakeugc/p/master-ugc-on-fiverr Connect with NateInstagram: @nateflakecreatesYouTube: UGC 101 PodcastContact / CollabsFor guest pitches, partnerships, or sponsorship inquiries.https://ugcbynate.com/

Nov 10, 2025 • 56min
From Struggles to Success: Essential Tips for UGC Creators | EP 25
In this episode of the UGC 101 podcast, I had the pleasure of hosting Mia, founder of Creator Vault. We delved into her journey in the UGC space, starting from her college days when she was exploring various career paths, to discovering UGC through social media. Mia shared her experiences of moving to New York with just $10,000 and a dream, highlighting the challenges and triumphs she faced along the way. We discussed the importance of transparency and authenticity in the UGC community, and how Creator Vaults aims to provide a platform for creators to share their experiences and insights anonymously. Mia's passion for building a supportive community for content creators was evident as she talked about the app's features and future plans. It was an inspiring conversation that underscored the value of perseverance and the power of community in the ever-evolving world of UGCYou can download the Creator Vault app here: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/creator-vault/id6670768966?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacANnxUm8QxQt51PrAB6aavYLkpj50YiMAzSB1pqjI4RpCKzlufbqkZ6yohTw_aem_zwpTtagKbZO4FWqur1Vd8wFollow Mia on socials:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itskormenia/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@itskormenia?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcNate's UGC Fiverr Pro Course + Community (use the code PODCAST for 15% off): https://stan.store/nateflakeugc/p/master-ugc-on-fiverrFollow me on socials @nateflakecreatesUGC Creator Connect Event!To get updates and find out when presale tickets go on sale for UGC Creator Connect (March 14th in Park City, Utah) you can register here: https://ugccreatorconnectevent.comDownload FREE GUIDE: 10 Steps to Becoming a UGC Creator from Scratch Join UGC Creator Connect — March 14, Park City UT → https://ugccreatorconnectevent.com MORE FROM NATE FLAKE Nate’s UGC Fiverr Pro Course + Community — use code PODCAST for 15% off: . https://stan.store/nateflakeugc/p/master-ugc-on-fiverr Connect with NateInstagram: @nateflakecreatesYouTube: UGC 101 PodcastContact / CollabsFor guest pitches, partnerships, or sponsorship inquiries.https://ugcbynate.com/

Nov 10, 2025 • 55min
Influencing is Out - UGC is In! | EP 26
In this episode of the UGC 101 podcast, I had an amazing conversation with Marzia Prince, an experienced UGC creator who transitioned from a 20-year career as a fitness coach to a thriving content creator. We explored her journey, including the pivotal moment when a major brand like Kroger recognized her potential, which led her to embrace UGC full-time. Marzia shared candid advice on navigating the challenges of content creation, emphasizing the importance of showing up consistently, even when content feels 'cringe-worthy.' Her story of leveraging personal experiences, like her health journey and local business collaborations, to create authentic and engaging content was truly inspiring. This episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to understand the nuances of building a successful UGC career.Learn more about Marzia's UGC Fast Track program here: https://ugcfasttrack.com/Follow Marzia on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marziaprinceNate's UGC Fiverr Pro Course + Community (use the code PODCAST for 15% off): https://stan.store/nateflakeugc/p/master-ugc-on-fiverrFollow me on socials @nateflakecreatesUGC Creator Connect Event!To get updates and find out when presale tickets go on sale for UGC Creator Connect (March 14th in Park City, Utah) you can register here: https://ugccreatorconnectevent.comDownload FREE GUIDE: 10 Steps to Becoming a UGC Creator from Scratch Join UGC Creator Connect — March 14, Park City UT → https://ugccreatorconnectevent.com MORE FROM NATE FLAKE Nate’s UGC Fiverr Pro Course + Community — use code PODCAST for 15% off: . https://stan.store/nateflakeugc/p/master-ugc-on-fiverr Connect with NateInstagram: @nateflakecreatesYouTube: UGC 101 PodcastContact / CollabsFor guest pitches, partnerships, or sponsorship inquiries.https://ugcbynate.com/

Oct 22, 2025 • 52min
Episode 24 - Finding Your Community in UGC
In this episode, I got to hang out with Bill, a UGC creator who's been in the game for a couple of years. We talked about his journey from sports hospitality to going full-time with UGC, and all the ups and downs that came with it. Bill shared some cool insights on carving out his niche, why retainers are a game-changer, and what it's like being a guy in a mostly female industry. We also chatted about Creator Beach, his not-for-profit project that's all about supporting creators. You can sign up for Creator Beach here: https://www.creatorbeach.com/creatorjoinFollow Bill on socials:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billugc/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@creatorbeachbillNate's UGC Fiverr Pro Course + Community (use the code PODCAST for 15% off): https://stan.store/nateflakeugc/p/master-ugc-on-fiverrFollow me on socials @nateflakecreatesDownload FREE GUIDE: 10 Steps to Becoming a UGC Creator from Scratch Join UGC Creator Connect — March 14, Park City UT → https://ugccreatorconnectevent.com MORE FROM NATE FLAKE Nate’s UGC Fiverr Pro Course + Community — use code PODCAST for 15% off: . https://stan.store/nateflakeugc/p/master-ugc-on-fiverr Connect with NateInstagram: @nateflakecreatesYouTube: UGC 101 PodcastContact / CollabsFor guest pitches, partnerships, or sponsorship inquiries.https://ugcbynate.com/

Oct 8, 2025 • 1h 3min
Episode 23 - From UX to UGC: Xin's Creator Story
In this episode of the UGC 101 podcast, I had the pleasure of welcoming Xin Yi, a UGC creator and creative strategist. We dive into Xin Yi's fascinating journey from studying computer science with a focus on UX design and data science to becoming a key player in the UGC space. Xin Yi shares her insights on the importance of research, how content standards have evolved, and the value of having a mentor in the creative industry. We also discuss the challenges and rewards of transitioning from a technical background to a creative field, emphasizing the need for adaptability and continuous learning. Xin Yi offers valuable advice for those starting a UGC career, the intricacies of creative strategy, and the importance of not comparing oneself to others in the industry. Whether you're a seasoned creator or just starting out, this episode is packed with knowledge and inspiration.If you would like to reach out to Xin regarding her UGC portfolio services, check out here site here and schedule a discovery call with her: https://xinugc.my.canva.site/web-dev-servicesNate's UGC Fiverr Pro Course + Community (use the code PODCAST for 15% off): https://stan.store/nateflakeugc/p/master-ugc-on-fiverrFollow me on socials @nateflakecreatesDownload FREE GUIDE: 10 Steps to Becoming a UGC Creator from Scratch Join UGC Creator Connect — March 14, Park City UT → https://ugccreatorconnectevent.com MORE FROM NATE FLAKE Nate’s UGC Fiverr Pro Course + Community — use code PODCAST for 15% off: . https://stan.store/nateflakeugc/p/master-ugc-on-fiverr Connect with NateInstagram: @nateflakecreatesYouTube: UGC 101 PodcastContact / CollabsFor guest pitches, partnerships, or sponsorship inquiries.https://ugcbynate.com/

Oct 1, 2025 • 1h 7min
Building Your UGC Career with Fiverr
In this episode of the UGC 101 podcast, I chat with Claire Bacardi, a successful UGC creator who went from social work to content creation. Claire shares how she started her UGC business to help pay for her wedding, the hurdles she faced, and how she made a name for herself on Fiverr. We dive into why being real is key in content creation, the shift from corporate jobs to doing your own thing, and what the future holds for UGC in a crowded market. Claire talks about why creators need to be bold and flexible, pointing out that every brand needs user-generated content. We also tackle the journey of becoming a UGC creator, busting some common fears and myths about the industry. We stress the importance of just starting, even if you're scared, and how UGC is changing, along with the need for personal branding. Claire introduces her coaching program, the Pink Collar Club, which helps aspiring UGC creators with community, training, and resources. Plus, we share tips on using platforms like Fiverr and why setting clear goals in the UGC world is crucial.Non-profit highlighted: Five.12 Foundation - learn more about their mission here: https://five12.org/Join Claire's Pink Collar Club: (15% off with code UGC101): https://stan.store/claireonvideo/p/pink-collar-clubFollow Claire on all socials @claireonvideoClaire's first Fiverr gig video: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPNf-6UjYuN/?igsh=MWU2ZjY5bnVhM251bg==Nate's UGC Fiverr Pro Course + Community (use the code PODCAST for 15% off): https://stan.store/nateflakeugc/p/master-ugc-on-fiverrFollow me on socials @nateflakecreatesDownload FREE GUIDE: 10 Steps to Becoming a UGC Creator from Scratch Join UGC Creator Connect — March 14, Park City UT → https://ugccreatorconnectevent.com MORE FROM NATE FLAKE Nate’s UGC Fiverr Pro Course + Community — use code PODCAST for 15% off: . https://stan.store/nateflakeugc/p/master-ugc-on-fiverr Connect with NateInstagram: @nateflakecreatesYouTube: UGC 101 PodcastContact / CollabsFor guest pitches, partnerships, or sponsorship inquiries.https://ugcbynate.com/


