Meet Nadia Hernandez | UGC Creator & Lifestyle Content

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nadia Hernandez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nadia, why did you pursue a creative career?
From the moment I first discovered the true magic of social media, I was hooked. The way it can transform an idea into a global conversation, the endless possibilities of connecting with like-minded people, and the sheer power it holds to turn everyday moments into something meaningful—what’s not to love? At first, it was just a fun passion project, a creative outlet where I could showcase my love for lifestyle and food. Little did I know, that same spark of creativity would eventually evolve into something I could actually monetize.

It wasn’t until a few people in my life pointed out the potential—”You know, you could get paid for your content,” they said—that the idea even crossed my mind. At first, I brushed it off. Surely, that wasn’t possible for someone like me, just posting about my favorite meals and daily adventures. But as I kept up with it, as I immersed myself deeper into this space, I began to see real examples of people turning their passion into profit. It was no longer a far-fetched dream; it was a viable path. So, I built a portfolio, and started pitching myself to brands and businesses.

Why did I want to be in this space? Simply put: because I knew I could grow as a creator. I wanted to craft content that didn’t just fill a feed but told a story—content that would resonate with others, that had value and purpose, and that was worth sharing. I love that my work can inspire someone’s next meal, spark a new idea, or even make someone smile. And the best part? It’s never boring. The variety of balancing lifestyle, foodie adventures, and UGC (user-generated content) for products and ads keeps things fresh, creative, and challenging.

In a world where everyone has a voice, I’m just grateful mine has found its place. And every day, I get to do what I love—and get paid for it. What could be better than that?

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
When it comes to my craft, I think what truly sets me apart is the genuine connection I strive to create through every piece of content. In the world of User-Generated Content (UGC), there’s a lot of emphasis on making things look good—and don’t get me wrong, aesthetics are important! But I’ve always believed that authenticity is key. So, I balance that ‘perfect’ visual appeal with relatability and real-life value. It’s not just about creating something that looks good—it’s about making sure it resonates with the audience, and delivers on the return on investment (ROI) that brands are looking for. My goal is to make UGC feel like a true, seamless experience that feels as natural as it does impactful.

When I approach content creation, especially in the foodie and lifestyle space, I always put myself in the shoes of the audience. What would *they* want to see? What would *they* want to try? I get specific about the details—whether it’s the perfect angle on a dish, the right lighting to show off the vibrant colors, or even the small moments that will truly connect with viewers. If I’m filming at a location, I think about what visitors will care about. What’s the vibe they want to experience? What parts of the place need to shine to make them feel like they’re right there with me? Every post, every shot, every angle has to tell a story, and I’m constantly focused on how I can best share that narrative so that it resonates with others.

My journey to becoming a content creator in the UGC space wasn’t exactly a walk in the park. It took persistence, consistency, and the courage to keep going when things didn’t seem to be moving forward as fast as I’d hoped. There are days when burnout hits hard—when it feels like everyone else is on the same grind and the online world can start to feel like an oversaturated space. But here’s the thing: UGC is about *your* work, not your follower count. The most important thing is staying true to your craft, pushing through the tough times, and constantly evolving.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned along the way? Never give up. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve received a “no” from a brand or business, and it felt like a setback. But the truth is, that’s just part of the process. In the world of content creation, as in sales, “no” is just part of the game. The next brand or business might just say “yes,” and that could lead to your next big opportunity. It’s all about resilience, learning from each experience, and understanding that your next yes is always right around the corner.

The world of UGC is an ever-evolving space, and that’s part of what excites me every day. I’m always learning, experimenting, and refining my craft. So, what do I want the world to know about me and my brand? That I’m here to create genuine, story-driven content that connects with people and leaves a lasting impact. And that, no matter how challenging it might get, I’ll keep pushing forward, finding new ways to evolve, and telling the stories that matter most.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting Houston for a week, trust me, we’d have the *best* time exploring this vibrant city. I’d kick things off by giving them a taste of the local gems, starting with a hidden spot in the Heights—*Vuji Cafe*. This cozy little spot is the perfect blend of ambiance and artistry. It’s the kind of place where you can sip on a specialty coffee while being surrounded by unique Fusion of Flavors. The menu offers a variety of delicious bites, making it an ideal spot to unwind and start the day off right.

Next, we’d head over to Midtown for a caffeine boost at *Kefita Coffee*. This Ethiopian coffee shop serves up some of the best brews in the city. Seriously, their coffee is next-level! It’s not just a cup of coffee, it’s an experience. I’d get us a couple of iced lattes and we’d hang out, people-watch, and soak in the laid-back vibe of the area. If we’re lucky, we might even run into some local creatives or entrepreneurs, adding a bit of extra spark to our day.

Now, after all that caffeine, it’s time for some fun. If we can squeeze in a happy hour (and trust me, we will), we’re heading to *The Original Ninfa’s (on Post Oak Blvd)* for some legendary frozen margaritas and mouthwatering happy hour bites. Their margaritas are basically a Houston icon, and the fajitas? *Unbeatable*. It’s the perfect spot for some casual laughs and lively conversation while indulging in classic Mexican Food.

For a bit of relaxation and a touch of nature, I’d take my bestie for a leisurely stroll in *Memorial Park*. It’s one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. and offers beautiful trails, serene views, and a peaceful escape from the city hustle. It’s a great spot for clearing your mind and soaking in some greenery.

If my best friend is feeling it, I’d also invite her to come take a workout class at Trufusion where I teach Hot Pilates, Reformer Pilates, Hot Barre and Barefoot Bootcamp. I’d let her pick and yes, I would recommend all of them.

Now, when it’s time to *really* eat, we’re heading to *Gen Korean BBQ House* for an unforgettable dinner. This place is all about the experience. You cook your own BBQ right at the table, and with the all-you-can-eat option, the possibilities are endless! From tender meats to fresh vegetables, the flavors are out of this world. It’s the kind of spot where you can enjoy a meal, have some laughs, and leave totally stuffed—and totally happy.

To cap off our week, we’ll go for something a little extra fun—*Cinema Top Roof Club*. Imagine this: a rooftop movie theater with great vibes and a perfect skyline view. It’s the ideal spot to relax and watch a film under the stars while sipping on a beverage or two. It’s got that perfect blend of fun, aesthetics, and a little bit of magic.

And of course, throughout the whole trip, we’d make it a point to continue supporting local businesses—because that’s the heart and soul of Houston. From coffee shops to eateries to unique spots like Vuji Cafe, this city is full of incredible hidden gems and must-see places that truly give it personality and charm. Whether it’s food, fun, or just hanging out, Houston has a way of making every moment memorable.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
If there’s one thing I’ve learned along this creative journey, it’s that success is never a solo mission—it’s a collective effort. So, if I were to give a shoutout to anyone or anything that’s been pivotal in my story, I’d have to start with the unsung heroes who are always right there in the trenches with me: my incredible friends and family. From day one, they’ve been my rock, encouraging me to pursue this passion and reminding me that I’ve got what it takes, even when self-doubt creeps in. You know who you are—the ones who never fail to hype me up when I need it most.

And then, of course, there’s the *plus* squad—the people who are not only supporting me emotionally but physically there, holding cameras, adjusting angles, and making sure every shot is just right. Yes, I’m talking about those who make sure we don’t eat or drink until the perfect shot is captured (I see you, and I thank you!). You’ve mastered the art of adjusting lighting, perfecting my angles, and making sure my content tells the best story possible. Your patience and attention to detail don’t go unnoticed, and I’m forever grateful.

I also want to shoutout the amazing businesses and brands that have given me the opportunity to film content, try their incredible food and drinks, and be part of their journey. You’ve made it possible for me to combine my love for content creation with my passion for great food, and I couldn’t be more thankful. And to the businesses that trust me to create UGC content and make sure every detail is spot on, thank you for allowing me to contribute to your narrative. It’s a true partnership, and I’m beyond appreciative.

Lastly, to the online community that has joined me from the very beginning, continues to follow my journey, and supports my craft, I also thank you!

In the end, this creative space is a collaborative one, and none of it would be possible without the ongoing support and encouragement of all these wonderful people, businesses, and moments that help bring my ideas to life. So here’s to them—thank you for being the heart of my story!

Website: https://ugc-with-nadia.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/naadiaann_ugc