Watch the Episode on YouTube

Many aspiring solopreneurs believe making money online requires a massive social media following.

But what if that assumption is wrong?

In this episode of The Aspiring Solopreneur, Carly Ries and Joe Rando sit down with creator and educator Megan Spencer (Meg the Creator) to discuss how everyday people are earning income online through user-generated content (UGC), freelancing, and creator economy opportunities, without becoming influencers.

Megan shares how she went from experimenting with online side hustles to building a business teaching others her “anti-influencer method,” a system that focuses on skills, systems, and confidence rather than popularity or follower counts.

If you’ve ever felt behind on social media or hesitant to start an online business because you don’t want to chase followers, this episode offers a refreshing perspective.

What Is User-Generated Content (UGC)?

User-generated content (UGC) refers to authentic content created by everyday people for brands to use in their marketing.

Instead of hiring influencers with large audiences, many companies now hire creators to produce:

• Product videos
• Testimonials
• Social media clips
• Product demonstrations
• Short-form ads

The key difference? You don’t need a following. Brands are paying for the content itself, not access to your audience.

This shift has created a growing opportunity for solopreneurs who want to earn online without becoming influencers.

Why You Don’t Need Followers to Make Money Online

One of the biggest misconceptions about online income is that success requires a large audience.

According to Megan, that’s simply not true.

Many platforms allow creators to apply directly to brand opportunities. These platforms match everyday creators with brands looking for authentic content.

Examples include:

• JoinBrands
• Billo
• Insense

These platforms allow creators to apply for projects, submit content, and get paid, often without needing a portfolio or social following.

For beginners, this creates an easier entry point into the creator economy.

The Mindset Shift Solopreneurs Need

One of the biggest obstacles Megan sees with aspiring solopreneurs is waiting for everything to be perfect before starting.

Many people believe they need:

• A polished portfolio
• A niche
• A website
• A brand
• A social media audience

But in reality, most successful creators begin by simply taking action first and learning as they go.

As Megan explains, clarity often comes after you start.  nstead of saying “I’m going to be a creator,” adopt the identity early: “I am a creator.”

That shift can dramatically change how people approach opportunities.

Why Beginners Shouldn’t Niche Down Too Early

Niching down is common advice in entrepreneurship, but Megan offers a slightly different perspective for beginners.

When you're first starting with UGC or content work, niching too early can actually limit your opportunities.

Instead, Megan suggests:

1. Take a wide variety of projects
2. Build experience across industries
3. Learn what types of content you enjoy creating

Once you gain experience and confidence, then you can narrow your focus and target brands aligned with your interests.

The Power of Content Batching

Another key system Megan teaches creators is content batching.

Batching means creating multiple pieces of content in a single session rather than filming daily.

Benefits include:

• Reduced stress and burnout
• Better time management
• Consistent posting
• More flexibility when life gets busy

For solopreneurs juggling multiple responsibilities, batching helps maintain consistency without constant pressure.

Choosing the Right Online Income Stream

There are many ways to earn money online, but not all income streams are the same.

Megan encourages people to consider several factors when choosing where to start:

How quickly do you want to be paid?

Some platforms have longer payment timelines.

Examples:

UGC work
Creators can often get paid within days or weeks of completing a project.

Amazon influencer commissions
Payments may take up to 60 days after earning your first commission.

TikTok Shop affiliate programs
Payments may take around 30 days.

How comfortable are you on camera?

Some creators enjoy appearing in videos, while others prefer faceless content, where the creator demonstrates products without showing their face.

Both options are increasingly common in the creator economy.

An Unexpected Strategy That Generated $50,000

During the conversation, Megan shares a surprising story about a TikTok video that generated $50,000 in sales.

The viral moment came from something called “rage bait content.”

In this case, Megan accidentally mispronounced an ingredient in a product video. Viewers flooded the comments to correct her, which drove massive engagement.

The increased engagement pushed the video to more viewers, including people who purchased the product.

While the strategy isn’t something she necessarily recommends as a primary tactic, it highlights an important lesson:

Engagement drives distribution on social platforms.

How Small Wins Build Confidence

Confidence is one of the most important factors in building an online business.

Instead of chasing huge results immediately, Megan encourages creators to focus on quick wins.

For example:

• Landing your first $50 content job
• Completing your first paid video
• Getting your first brand collaboration

Even small wins prove the model works.

And once someone earns their first payment online, it becomes easier to imagine earning more.

As Megan explains: “If you can make $80, you can make $800. If you can make $800, you can make $1,000.”

Slow Growth Is Still Growth

One of Megan’s favorite quotes about success is simple but powerful:

“Slow growth is still growth.”

Many people assume successful creators achieved overnight success. In reality, most built their businesses gradually through experimentation, learning, and consistency.

The creator economy rewards persistence.

Each new skill, client, or opportunity builds momentum.

Where to Learn More

You can learn more about Megan and her work at:

Website: megthecreator.com

TikTok: @megthecreator_

Instagram: @megthecreator_

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make money online without followers?

Yes. Opportunities like user-generated content (UGC), freelancing, and brand collaborations allow creators to get paid for producing content rather than promoting to an audience.

What is UGC content?

UGC (user-generated content) is authentic content created by everyday people for brands to use in their marketing campaigns, social media ads, or product pages.

How much can beginner UGC creators earn?

Many beginners start earning $50–$200 per piece of content, with experienced creators earning significantly more as they build a portfolio.

Do you need expensive equipment to start creating content?

No. Many UGC creators start using only their smartphone and natural lighting.

If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to subscribe to The Aspiring Solopreneur and leave a review to help other solopreneurs discover the show.

About the Show

The Aspiring Solopreneur helps one-person business owners grow smarter, avoid burnout, and build businesses that support their lives, not consume them. Hosted by Carly Ries and Joe Rando, the show features practical strategies, real conversations, and expert insights for modern solopreneurs.