Isabel Santiago shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Isabel, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity matters most to me because it’s the foundation that shapes everything else I do—especially when building a community on social media.
Without integrity, intelligence can be manipulative and energy can be misdirected. But with integrity, my decisions, words, and actions consistently align with my values. That consistency builds trust, and trust is the currency of any thriving online community.
On social media, people have endless options for who to follow and engage with. They gravitate toward creators and leaders they believe are authentic, honest, and transparent. When my audience knows I’ll stand by my principles—even when it’s inconvenient—I create a safe, dependable space. That encourages loyalty, deeper engagement, and a sense of belonging.
Integrity also acts as my compass in a fast-moving online world. Trends change, algorithms shift, and sometimes opportunities tempt me to cut corners. But integrity keeps me focused on my mission, not just my metrics. It ensures my growth is sustainable, because it’s built on genuine relationships, not quick wins.
In short: energy draws people in, intelligence gives them value, but integrity is what keeps them coming back—because they can count on me to mean what I say and do what I promise.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Isabel, the creator behind @unfiltered_adventures_, where I share a lifestyle rooted in authenticity, family travel, and memorable experiences. My goal is to inspire families to explore, connect, and savor life’s moments—whether through exciting adventures, everyday joys, or meaningful traditions.
What makes my work unique is that I’m not just chasing trends or numbers—I’m committed to building trust and sharing real, unfiltered moments. Every trip, post, and collaboration is guided by my core values so my community knows they can always count on me to be transparent, genuine, and consistent.
Right now, I’m working on an exciting collaboration with a well-known pizza company—blending my love for family-friendly experiences with a brand that brings people together around the table. My hope is to create something that not only engages people online but also inspires them to connect, explore, and enjoy life’s adventures without filters.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
Before the world told me who I had to be, I was a curious, adventurous girl who saw life as a series of stories waiting to be lived. I didn’t worry about fitting into expectations—I just followed what lit me up. I was happiest exploring new places, connecting with people, and finding joy in the little moments.
In many ways, I’ve come full circle. Through @unfiltered_adventures_, I’ve returned to that version of myself—the one who values experiences over perfection, authenticity over appearances, and connection over comparison. I’ve learned that the truest version of me was there all along; I just had to quiet the noise of the world to hear her again.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self, “You don’t have to change who you are to be accepted. The right people will value your authenticity, your kindness, and your adventurous spirit exactly as they are. Keep chasing what excites you, and don’t let the world’s expectations drown out your own voice.”
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
The public version of me is a reflection of who I am, but it’s not the full picture. On @unfiltered_adventures_, I share my passions, adventures, and the moments I want to inspire others with—but like anyone, I have private sides, quiet struggles, and experiences I keep to myself. That said, I strive to make the parts I do share honest and authentic. Even if it’s curated for social media, it’s still me—just the me I hope encourages others to live boldly, authentically, and with integrity.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people remember me as someone who inspired others to live authentically, embrace adventure, and prioritize what truly matters—family, connection, and meaningful experiences. But more than anything, how my kids remember me is what matters most. I want the story they tell to reflect that I was loving, present, and encouraging; that I led with integrity, brought joy wherever I could, and showed them what it means to chase passions without apology. If they can say I made life brighter and showed them how to live fully and kindly, that’s the legacy I hope to leave.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unfiltered_adventures_/profilecard/?igsh=MXgzZmNjbzFvMW5veA==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1FTb3LZnRU/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@unfiltered_adventures?_t=ZP-8yt7awt2bvT&_r=1
