S2, Ep2 – In conversation with Victoria Woodhall
2 September 2022
Providing you with a true ‘industry insider’ glimpse as Dr Reena is joined for our second episode of season two on Harley Street by Victoria Woodhall.
Needing no introduction and renowned as an editorial director and journalist, Victoria has built an incredible 360 career across the lifestyle, wellness, health and beauty industry combined. Discussing everything from the ‘consumerism demand for instant access’, to making ‘yoga accessible for everyone’ (as a qualified yoga teacher no less), join the new season conversation and listen in full for a behind the scenes look of a typical day in the life, personal inspirations and of course we get the latest look at the items Victoria can’t be without.
Conversation Show Notes – The Recap
Combining a career in wellness and lifestyle through her highly celebrated work as a journalist and editorial director, Dr Reena welcomed Victoria Woodhall into the Harley Street recording studio for a dynamic conversation. Fast paced and incredibly insightful, they jumped straight into discussing how the demands of the media industry have evolved with the onset of digitalisation and the push for instant access.
Dr Reena asked Victoria how the shifting media landscape had personally impacted her daily role and whether the change had brought her closer to her dedicated audience. Victoria instantly confirmed that she had “definitely surfed the whole digital wave,” having originally trained on local newspapers where she was used to taking “good old-fashioned notes”. Back in the early days of her career, the main pressure was getting her shorthand speed up for court reporting, long before digital devices became commonplace in the newsroom. In the 90s, everything was paper-based.
Victoria summarised her thoughts on digital as a positive shift, saying she particularly enjoys using Instagram Live, which has allowed her to build a strong, global following for her yoga teaching. She loves how it keeps everyone connected, no matter where they are.
The biggest learning curve in her career was transitioning from traditional magazine work to writing for digital platforms. Victoria explained that digital demands quick thinking, constantly trying to “figure out exactly what Google wants” to ensure maximum reach. Now, she has perfected the art of balancing writing for both print and digital media.
Victoria’s journey into yoga came about through her growing focus on wellbeing. She’d always been sporty in school, but it wasn’t until her twenties—during a time of high work-related stress—that yoga was recommended to her repeatedly. She joked, “I must have had a blue flashing light above my head for everyone to keep recommending it!” It wasn’t until her thirties, after a bit of trial and error, that she found the right yoga style for her. She enjoyed the practice so much, experiencing endless benefits, that she eventually became a professionally trained yoga teacher, calling it the “ultimate wellness tool.”
As for her morning routine, Victoria starts her day at 6:15am with two specific cups of green tea. After that, it’s straight into rocket yoga at 6:30am. Dr Reena ensures Victoria reveals her desk-friendly tips and tricks, particularly focused on breathing techniques that can be easily done while working. When discussing what to wear during yoga practice, Victoria emphasises comfort and the need to be aware of the body. Style is a bonus, but the focus should be on feeling at ease, without attention being drawn to uncomfortable details like zips or bulky pockets.
Turning to personal inspirations, Victoria shared that she’s deeply motivated by the community around her when teaching yoga. Watching people experience the benefits of yoga—both physically and mentally—brings her immense joy. She believes yoga is a free practice that’s both time-honoured and essential in helping the body return to its natural form.
When it comes to advice for those starting out, Victoria suggests finding someone further along in their career and seeking their guidance. Having an open conversation with more experienced professionals is often the best strategy for growth. Most importantly, she reminds everyone to keep the conversation open—never spiral downwards.
Episode Key Takeaways – The Best ideas
Adaptability is key in the digital age – ‘multi-screening’ has become the norm for most of us.
Yoga is the ultimate wellness tool once you find the right style that fits your needs.
Consistency trumps intensity – start small, and don’t give up.
Your degree may not always provide the practical skills needed for the workplace – experience is essential.
Action is always better than inaction – doing something will always move you forward.
Be inspired by your community – the people around you can fuel your growth and creativity.
Change is inevitable – maintain a flexible mindset to adapt as needed.
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S5, Ep4 – In conversation with Pete Walker
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