If rejection has ever made you want to curl up and never pitch a brand again and you want better pitching strategies, and the confidence to run your business like a CEO, this one's for you.

Today I’m joined by my girl Ericka, founder and CEO of Silkenn, and host of the Boss Babe Reset Podcast. We dive deep into how to handle rejection (as a founder and as a creator), emotional regulation, and stepping into your role as a business owner, not “just” a UGC creator.

What We Talk About in This Episode

• Why rejection is non-negotiable in building a business — whether you're pitching brands, raising capital, or landing paid UGC deals
• How founders REALLY feel about content creators pitching (and what brands look for)
• Why rejection is not personal — it’s just information, not a verdict
• How to shift from “I’m just a content creator” to “I’m a CEO with a business”
• Practical ways to reframe rejection so it doesn’t derail your confidence
• Erika’s personal journey founding Silkenn after grief, burnout, and a career pivot
• The nervous system tools you NEED as a freelancer or UGC creator
• How to regulate your body before regulating your mind (game-changing!)
• Pitching to brands when you feel scared or unqualified
• The truth: even after 6 figures in UGC, I STILL get rejected
• Why faking it ’til you make it is sometimes exactly the energy you need
• Embracing the long game — why success in UGC requires consistency and boldness

Where to Find Ericka:

 Ericka Nicole — Founder & CEO of Silkenn

• Podcast: Boss Babe Reset
• Brand: Silkenn — pollution-protection skincare rooted in microbiome science
• Instagram & Threads:  @theerickanicole
• Website: silkenn.com

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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-masterclass