“A Day in the Life” is a series where we’ll profile a variety of residents to get an intimate glimpse into their day-to-day. These are your neighbors. Get to know them.
This upcoming February, Boston viewers will welcome back one of the city’s most popular TV personalities – Jenny Johnson. The former TV Diner host is moving to the New England Sports Network with co-host Billy Costa for a brand new food and sports-themed show, Dining Playbook.
According to the Boston Globe, the new show “will include restaurant reviews and cooking demonstrations, as well as occasional sports-related segments, such as athletes’ favorite places to eat.” NESN reports that the show will be “a fan’s playbook to the New England dining and lifestyle scene.”
Here, BostInno catches up with the local celeb and TV producer, Jenny Johnson, to see how her days have been leading up to the show’s premiere. And, it’s safe to say that the Emmy award-winning executive producer and lifestyle TV personality isn’t slowing down one bit. Here’s what she’s been up to, as of late.
How do you spend most mornings?
It starts with a mug of warm lemon water. Apparently it boosts the immune system and is a natural energizer. Then I exercise…. a “run” (which really is more like a jog) for a couple miles, a class at Bar Method, or (when time is tight) a little yoga in the corner of my apt. A morning workout helps focus my mind for the day ahead.
What are the top priorities on your to-do list right now?
Right now focus is work. Dining Playbook with Billy and Jenny premiers on NESN this February. It’s a busy time inside my head. It’s swirling with concepts, ideas and scenes that will help me create entertaining TV.
If you could eat at any restaurant in Boston for dinner tonight, what would it be?
Café Jaffa, on Gloucester Street in the Back Bay, is my go-to. The Chicken Schwarma is unbelievable. It’s flavorful and filling. I hit them up once – sometimes twice – a week!
What is the worst part and the best part about your typical day?
The highlight of my day is talking to my sister, Hillary. She has an uncanny ability to make me laugh, no matter the circumstance. And the worst is when I can’t find a resident parking spot after a long day.
If you could impart one piece of advice to our readers, what would it be?
Focus on finding balance. Say out loud the things, moments and people you are grateful for.
What would you do if you were suddenly granted a day off from work tomorrow?
Well, I’d inevitably work half of it (since I rarely fully disconnect) and then I’d go to an indoor rock climbing gym.
What is the most exciting thing about your new show on the New England Sports Network?
I’m really excited to be in a position to learn more about professional sports. Fitness and food are two of my greatest loves so our new show at NESN will be the perfect combination. Viewers will look forward to finding out which restaurants New England professional athletes choose to dine in. NESN is one of the most well-known brands in the country, and Billy and I are thrilled to have them as partners.
If you weren’t answering my questions, what would you be doing instead?
I’d probably be preparing my schedule for tomorrow. Everything has to be in my calendar or it won’t happen. A Type-A personality thing? I find peace in organization.
Think you have an interesting day-to-day life or know someone who does? Send an email to marian@americaninno.com/boston and let us know!
Image via Twitter
