Meet Pagna Ouch | Mom of Two, Beauty Content Creator & Founder of emPagñada

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

Hi Pagna, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
As a mom of two, I just wanted something that worked with my life, not against it. I needed flexibility but also wanted to do something that felt like me. I’ve always loved creating—whether it’s sharing skincare or making food for my family—so I figured, why not build something around that? That’s how Pagnapores and emPagñada came to life. I wanted to show up for my kids, but also for myself—and this was my way of doing both.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My work is a reflection of who I am—a mom, a creator, a woman rooted in culture and real-life experience. Through Pagnapores, I share honest skincare and beauty content that feels relatable, not filtered. I’m not trying to be perfect—I want to show up as I am, even on the messy days, and help others feel like they can too. With emPagñada, my home-based food business, I bring together the flavors and stories from my Cambodian and Puerto Rican roots. Every empanada is made with intention, and every bite has a story.

What sets me apart is that I’m not trying to fit into a box. I’ve carved out space that includes being a mother, an entrepreneur, and a content creator—without having to choose just one. I’m most proud of building something from scratch while raising my daughters and staying true to who I am.

The road definitely hasn’t been easy. I’ve doubted myself, hit burnout, and had to start over more than once. But I’ve learned that progress is still progress, even if it’s slow. I’ve learned to ask for help, take breaks when I need to, and trust that what I’m building matters—even when it doesn’t always feel like it.

What I want people to know is that my story is still unfolding, and I hope it encourages others—especially moms—to believe they don’t have to shrink or pause their dreams. You can build, grow, and create on your own terms. That’s what I’m doing, and that’s the heart behind everything I share and make.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Ah, there’s honestly too much to choose from! I love mixing family-friendly activities with a few fun grown-up moments, so here’s how I’d plan it:

We’d start with a hike at Torrey Pines—you can’t visit San Diego without seeing those coastal cliff views. There’s something grounding about being out there, right where the land meets the ocean. Afterward, breakfast at The Cliffhanger Café is a must. Watching people paraglide while sipping coffee is such a vibe, and it always reminds me of how freeing San Diego feels.

We’d definitely spend a day at Balboa Park, wandering through the museums, soaking in the architecture, and relaxing at the Botanical Garden or Rose Garden—it’s timeless and beautiful. For brunch, I love The Vibe or Farmer’s Table for good food and good energy.

For some family fun, we’d head to Belmont Park so the kids can play mini golf, hit the beach, and we can all unwind with s’mores by the fire pit. It’s such a classic San Diego experience that never gets old.

And for a fun night out, I’d take them to The Lafayette Hotel—it’s got charm, history, and just the right amount of cool. There’s always something happening there, and the cocktails and ambiance are a whole mood.

San Diego really has it all—nature, culture, food, and fun. You can take it slow or stay on the go, and either way, you’ll leave with memories.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I have to shout out my daughters—they are the reason I even started thinking the way I do now. Becoming a mom shifted everything for me. They’ve made me more intentional, more creative, and more determined to build something meaningful—not just for myself, but for them to see what’s possible.

I also want to give credit to their father, my partner. He’s asked me some of the hardest questions—the ones that made me pause and really challenge myself. His honesty and support have helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect. Both the tough love and the encouragement from him have played a big part in shaping my journey.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pagnapores?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Other: https://www.instagram.com/empagnada?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Image Credits
Pagna ouch