BABE #20: MORGAN HALEY,Yoga Instructor + Social Media Influencer
I've been following Morgan on Instagram for over a year now. If I'm being honest - I never expected in a million years that she would respond when I pitched this interview idea - and guess what? She was one of the quickest responses I've had! With her talent aside (which you'll see via plenty of photos below,) I can tell how genuine she is, regardless of any 'internet fame' that has come her way. She hustles so hard to spread her love and knowledge of yoga, and her Instagram account is truly a breath of fresh air. It offers such a beautiful look into another hustlin' babe's unique lifestyle - while showcasing the lovely and challenging parts that make it real. So beyond excited to have you here, Morgan!
The Basics:
Hometown: Phoenixville, PA
Current City: Louisville, KY - I consider this more my hometown because I've been here for 18 years
Alma Mater: Homeschooled ;)
Degree: Vascular Sonography
Hustle: Yoga Instructor + Social Media Influencer at @The_Southern_Yogi
The Interests:
Babe you admire and why?
It's cliche, but my mom is a superstar. She raised and homeschooled 7 of us kids during the weekdays and worked on the weekends. I think she's a saint.
How do you spend your free time?
I absolutely love taking my wolf-dog on long walks, browsing through libraries and bookstores, or baking something sweet in the kitchen. (Preferably chocolate chip scones.)
Must-have item in your purse:
DōTERRA peppermint essential oil. (Retweet.)
What's one thing you wish you knew more about?
Sign language. I've always wanted to learn it. It's definitely something I plan on picking up in the future.
If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would you be?
On a dog sled in Iceland.
The Hustle:
Tell us about your hustle:
I'm a social media influencer who teaches yoga at home and around the world. I also love rock climbing, swimming, acroyoga/acrobatics and writing out e-books to share with others how I love to train and what my personal regimen looks like.
What does your typical workday look like:
I'm blessed to work almost exclusively from my phone. I normally walk my wolf-dog in the morning, spend an hour doing yoga, film videos afterwards, go to the gym in the afternoon, and then do an evening photo shoot with different photographers. It's all about that content. ;)
What has your past work experience been like?
I worked in a hospital as an ultrasound technician for two years, worked at an orthodontist office, and then found my dream job at Starbucks. Even though I hate coffee, I seriously LOVE making people their favorite beverages and connecting with them.
How and when did you get your start with yoga and did it come naturally to you?
I started yoga a little over two years ago. I began simply at home, using the YogaStudio app on my phone. It wasn't until after 10 months of at-home practice that I decided to step foot in an actual studio. I would say it came relatively naturally as I've been athletic my whole life. (Previously, I was a competitive swimmer for 10 years with training goals of going to the Olympics!)
What's it like being a social media influencer for a living? What kind of opportunities has it provided?
It's been an amazing and crazy roller coaster. I originally just got on Instagram to post progress photos of my yoga journey. Within months, I was rapidly gaining followers, and before I knew it, I had sponsors and companies reaching out asking if I could represent them, wear their clothing or try their products. It's been amazing connecting with so many brands and learning how to create your own business through Instagram. I'd have to say my very, favorite part of social media, though, is all the amazing humans I've met. I feel like I have friends all over the globe.
What is the most challenging part of being such a strong influence on social media?
I'd say staying true to yourself and not letting others opinions get in the way. It's so easy to be swayed into thinking, acting or looking a certain way. You almost have to get online with a pair of blinders on these days, and really be determined to stay true to your unique path.
What helps you wind down/how do you manage stress?
I love a good cup of chamomile tea with vanilla and honey. I also have scripture verses memorized that my mom used to whisper in our ear before bedtime. I always say them to myself when I start to feel anxious.
What motivates you?
The fact that fitness is a GIFT. I feel like we live in a world now where people feel entitled about exercising, and take it for granted. There are others out there who would trade shoes with us in a heartbeat to be healthy and active. So on the days I don't feel like getting out of bed, I get up and dedicate my workout to someone who physically isn't able to move their body how they want to.
What would you say to someone who intimidated to try yoga?
This practice is for you. Don't get sucked into the rights and wrongs or do's and don't's. Do what feels good for YOUR body, and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Yoga is for everyone and every body.
Career/life advice for other babes?
I've found living your dream doesn't mean life is easygoing and rainbows all the time. Work HARD at a job and start doing what you love on the side. Be smart with your time and money, and when the moment is right, you will get to do your passion full-time. It takes a lot of exhausting hours, hard work and sometimes multiple jobs to get to that point. Don't give up, all good things come in time. It's easy to be mediocre - it's freaking hard work to be excellent.
