Work Smarter Not Harder: Whitney Reynolds

If the door closes, there is always a window.

If you are new to Cedar & Rush, Work Smarter, Not Harder (WSNH) is a weekly column showcasing Chicago’s leading ladies – think CEO’s, entrepreneurs, and everyday women making a difference – and how they work smarter, not harder. I decided upon Monday so we can kick off the week as productive and as motivated as possible. If you love a particular piece of advice or have any tips of your own, please share by tagging #WSNH2015 on Instagram and Twitter.

Happy Monday! Today’s Work Smarter Not Harder is a doozie. As mentioned last week, Whitney Reynolds’ started her own show at the mere age of 23 and never looked back. Her news background and passion for people have combined to create a show that is changing the world of talk TV. The best part? It’s coming to a TV near you! So be sure to set your DVR’s for Monday nights at 6:30 PM starting April 6th. In the mean time, here’s the scoop straight from Whitney herself!

Whitney, please elaborate on your show and any other networks and projects you participate in on a regular basis. 

I produce a program that is dedicated to tough topics, inspiring viewers and provoking positive change. The Whitney Reynolds Show educates, motivates and makes a difference, one topic at a time. What started as an online talk show, has quickly gained momentum and moved to NBC within its first year. In 2012 the show made strategic changes, which included a move to PBS Stations in Chicago and The Quad Cities. I also contribute on 103.5 KISS FM’s “The Weekly Show” my segment, “Whitney’s Women” – spotlighting female entrepreneurs that give back.

Originally from Oklahoma, I’ve learned how to combine southern charm with big city hustle. My motto is: if the door closes, there’s always a window”. I graduated from Baylor University in three years and then moved to New York to intern for Good Morning America. Post GMA, I was a morning anchor in both Oklahoma and Texas. I have since planted my roots in Chicago, and live in Lakeview with my husband, David, and dog, Puffy. When not on air you’ll find me promoting my affordable jewelry line “Accessory Mercado By Whitney Reynolds” and volunteering with organizations close to my heart.

How did you get to your current position: I moved to Chicago in 2009 after being a morning anchor in Texas. The position I wanted got caught because of the crashing economy and I was stuck in a new city and no job. I started my talk show to keep my demo-reel current. Within the first year of the talk show I realized this was my true calling. I LOVED TALK TV… I did real estate video on the side to fund my talk show and one day I was filming a house for a NBC employee. She introduced me to her boss and 3 months later they picked up my talk show.

What time do you typically get up in the morning?  I get up everyday at 7:07 AM. It’s my lucky number. I typically do about 5 minutes of self reflection in bed and then hit the ground running.  Every morning I try to always start with a little gratitude (Think about all the good things in my life and good things to come).

How do you take your coffee and what do you typically eat for breakfast? Coffee with a little cream and breakfast tons of fruit.

Quickly walk us through your morning routine: I train with my trainer (30 minutes). Go on a 3 mile run to clear my mind. Shower up and sip my coffee. 9 AM either head to studio or go in to hair and makeup.

What is the best way to get your foot in the door of your dream job? If the door doesn’t open find the window. Nothing about my career journey is normal. Who would have thought at 23 I’d start a talk show and 29 still own it, have a staff and be expanding to new markets monthly.

What resources do you use to stay organized and remember tasks? My Ipad is my calendar. It holds the keys to my daily to do’s. For the show my team works off a rundown. Everything that goes into each show hits a rundown and then the timeline. I have found that digital works for me however paper works better for my staff.

What mistake do you see people constantly make that they should be aware of Comparing themselves to others. There is always going to be someone smarter, taller, etc but there’s only one YOU. Don’t fall into the trap of comparison. Take stock in yourself.

How do you conquer your inbox? Folders! I have organize my inbox in a very special way. I tend to bcc myself on things that need to be followed up on or have a hard deadline.

How do you format your emails? Depends on the time of day or where I’m at. If I get the email while I’m taping I am very short and to the point. If I get the email at the office on my desktop they tend to be fluffier.

How do you make time for working out and staying healthy? I work out during the work week and on Saturday do a quick run with the husband. I train at Fit Lincoln Park with Bojan. I love my wine but try to keep it special for the weekends.

What are your favorite tips for keeping an organized workspace? Clean once a week. I go through my office and throw out old papers and do a one over weekly. I like fresh flowers on my desk, they help me stay inspired and I always have classical music playing.

What other pieces of advice/tips can you share? Being from the south, my grandmother’s motto was be sweeter than the tea you drink. Chicago is a big/ small town. Always be nice!

Favorites: 

* Favorite Apps: The Chicago parking app changed my life. Starbucks and Daily Quote. {P.S. Whitney’s original answer was “Chips, salsa and queso.” Don’t you just love her even more?!}
* Favorite Resources: Facebook. Lol.
* Favorite Books: Etiquette by Emily Post and Southern Living Magazine
* Favorite Programs: The Whitney Reynolds Show, Scandal, World News
* Favorite Websites: Accessory Mercado
* Favorite Gadget:  Apple everything ☺
*Anything else? I love my husband and my dog a lot!

Whitney, I cannot get enough of your story and love your motto. In my book, Monday’s just got a whole lot better. Remember to tune in Monday night at 6:30 PM to see Whitney live! You can find TWS on the following channels: Comcast 239 || RCN 4 || Dish/Direct/ ATT 56. See you on the tube Whitney!

Want more? You can find all Work Smarter Not Harder posts right here.