Katie Austin’s energy is infectious. The fitness personality and TV host genuinely wants to make people feel good—including herself—and that work all starts in her home office (where she keeps a set of weights, of course). Today, we’re partnering with Glade® Essentials Room Mist to share the story behind Katie’s successful brand. Read on to hear what motivates her and what she loves most about her job.

Q: Where’s home to you?

A: I was born and raised in Alexandria, VA, so I’m an East Coast girl at heart. But I went to USC, so I now live in Los Angeles. I’ve been working here for approximately three years post-grad and am absolutely loving LA.

Q: What is self-care to you?

A: So it might seem a little bit cliche, but the thing that I love to do for self-care, and my definition of self-care is obviously taking care of my body inside and out.

Q: What’s your go-to treat for a productive day?

A: I like to make myself a smoothie to keep me energized throughout the whole entire day.

Q: What productivity tips do you have?

A: My number one tip for productivity is to wake up early in the morning. I always feel more ambitious. There’s just something about a morning vibe where you just get stuff done. I also love to keep my home office fresh to keep my mind up to par. I like natural light, I can’t have clutter, and I love the Glade® Essentials Room Mist to keep my space always feeling fresh.

Q: What have you been working on lately?

A: So I am currently working on some new app updates for my membership program, which is a new workout every single day. So if you haven’t checked it out, make sure you check it out! Plus, I am always working on revamping some of my activewear line, which is always entertaining and fun.

Q: What’s the hardest part about being an influencer?

A: The hardest part is definitely scrolling through Instagram and comparing myself to other girls and other influencers out there. So always remember that comparison is the thief of joy. You are you, and that is your power.

“Always remember that comparison is the thief of joy.
You are you, and that is your power.”

Q: What advice do you have for someone looking to grow their following?

A: The advice that I would give to someone trying to grow their following is just to stay authentic and true to yourself. Plus, that consistent content will always take you far.

Q: You keep weights at your desk—why?

A: Yes! I like to just pump it up every now and then when I feel like I’m getting in a little bit of a work rut. It helps boost your brainpower actually.

Q: What would you do if you had more free time?

A: If I had more free time, I would definitely be traveling more (as if I don’t travel enough already). But that’s definitely on my list. Plus I love sports a lot so I want to be involved in more sports any way I possibly can. Anything recreational or club, even ping pong.

Q: What do you think you would do if you weren’t a fitness influencer?

A: I would have to say what sets me apart, why I’m different is my bubbly personality. So in my next life I would have to say that I would be a pop star because I’m an amazing shower singer, I love to dance, and I love to be the center of attention. Just kidding!

Q: What’s the best part of being an influencer?

A: I would have to say the best part about my job is being my own boss, which is so fun. But at the same time that means I have to keep myself accountable 24/7, which can be kind of hard to stay motivated that much. Then I’d have to say the most rewarding part about what I do is helping other girls live their best life. It’s so gratifying to hear when other girls have gained that confidence and gained that self-love.

See Katie’s full interview below: