From Riot Squad to Yoga Teacher: Clare Walton's Journey of Radical Self-Discovery

Episode Overview

In this episode of Successful AF, host Jess West interviews Clare Walton, a former Riot Squad police officer turned yoga teacher and social entrepreneur.

Clare's transformative journey from a high-stress police career to finding peace and purpose through yoga is profoundly inspiring. She shares intimate stories of overcoming personal and professional challenges, navigating the dark moments, and realising the deep, healing power of yoga. Clare emphasises the importance of authentic self-care, consistent practice, and creating safe, inclusive spaces where people can heal, connect, and reignite their inner flame. It's a compelling conversation about transformation, resilience, and redefining what it means to be truly successful on one's own terms.

About Clare Walton

Clare spent 17 years as a Metropolitan Police officer, working in demanding roles including domestic violence and the riot squad. She first stepped onto a yoga mat seeking solace from her consuming police career, though her practice remained inconsistent for years. What began as a tiny, barely watered seed slowly grew and flourished as Clare pursued training in Greece and India, evolving into a winding, life-changing path.

Today, Clare runs "I am the Storm Yoga" from a beautiful watermill in North Norfolk, UK, where she facilitates heartfelt, intuitive classes. She believes yoga is accessible to all regardless of mental or physical starting points, and that it can bring joy, passion, connection, and the chance to trust and love who we really are. As a social entrepreneur, Clare supports various charities including domestic violence organisations and dog rescue charities, allowing the best versions of ourselves - and our communities - to evolve.

Episode Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Successful AF

01:35 Meet Clare Walton: From Riot Squad to Yoga Teacher

01:54 Clare's Journey: Embracing Yoga and Self-Discovery

02:18 Challenges and Transformations

02:44 Building a Yoga Community

03:04 Navigating Personal Struggles

03:41 Clare's First Yoga Class Experience

13:25 Creating a Safe Space for Healing

16:32 Supporting Charities and Future Plans

20:57 The Importance of Balancing Masculine and Feminine Energy

32:28 Defining Success: A Personal Journey

33:55 The Importance of Consistent Practices

36:47 Redefining Success Beyond Wealth

38:10 Breaking Barriers in Yoga

40:10 Embracing Your True Self

42:14 The Power of Disconnecting

45:33 Reclaim Your Flame: Concept and Events

47:07 Advice to My Younger Self

50:22 Navigating Life's Challenges

58:05 Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts

Connect with Clare:

Instagram: @Iamthestormyoga

https://www.iamthestormyoga.com

Reflection Questions

• What would it look like to redefine success as an "inward journey"?
• How can you create more space in your life for authentic connections?
• What practices help you navigate the "duality of life"?
• Where in your life are you chasing rather than attracting?

This conversation reminds us that no matter where we're starting from, we have the power to completely reimagine our lives. Clare's story is proof that our greatest challenges often become our greatest teachers, and that healing - while not easy - is always possible.

Love this episode? Hit subscribe and leave us a review! And if you know someone who's redefining success on their own terms, nominate them at successfulafpod@gmail.com - we're always looking for incredible people to feature.

Connect with Jess:

Instagram: @compasscoaching.co

Website: www.compasscoachingandyoga.com