Jeff Johnson has contributed commentary and analysis about issues related to race, politics, popular culture and socio-economics for a litany of top tier media outlets that include CNN, Fox News, BET and The Dr. Phil Show. He continues to provide weekly commentary on the nationally syndicated Rickey Smiley Morning Show tackling issues on politics, entertainment and social policy issues for its 8 million listeners.
As an award-winning journalist, social activist, political commentator, and author Jeff began his journey to “playing a great part in the world” as a student/leader at the University of Toledo; serving as the President of Student Government and the Black Student Union. Early in his professional career Jeff ascended to national leadership positions, becoming the National Director for the NAACP’s Youth and College Division, as well as Vice President of the Hip Hop Summit Action Network. It was in these capacities that Johnson began to develop and cultivate his passion for politics and social activism and laid the groundwork for a career that exemplifies service and awareness. Johnson’s dedication and superb work ethic garnered the attention of African American cable network BET and in 2003 Johnson began a 5-year engagement as the resident cultural and political affairs commentator of the popular music show, Rap City. Additional work with the network included The Jeff Johnson Chronicles as well as the weekly news show, The Truth with Jeff Johnson. In 2008 Johnson received the NABJ Salute to Excellence Award for BET’s “Life & Death in Darfur, Jeff Johnson Reports” series. Johnson ended his tenure with BET known as the “conscience voice” of the network and still values the experience as a defining point in his personal and professional path.
In 2009 Johnson published his first book, “Everything I’m Not Made Me Everything I Am; Discovering Your Personal Best.” This empowering strategic guide for manifesting and achieving your personal BEST showcases Johnson’s unique blend of political consciousness and street-smart inspiration. Publishing this book enabled the world to see his multi- faceted appeal and approach to a wide variety of topics. A powerful and uplifting book with wide range appeal, “Everything I’m Not Made Me Everything I am” offers practical guidance for learning how to unplug from the programmed expectations of family and society in order to discover and fulfill your unique life’s mission.
Johnson continues to be a catalyst for conversation on topics that define the culture of today. From his celebrated dialogue with marquee world figures, who include the Presidents of the Republic of Liberia and Sudan, President Obama, and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, to his grass-roots trench work to help create a better society, Jeff continues to be a trailblazing social entrepreneur and authentic voice for change. His ability to fluidly shift momentum to accommodate his audience and the overall topic necessity make Johnson a pivotal component to a litany of social conversations. Johnson consistently helps communities, corporations, and institutions to create innovative solutions and develop multi-level partnerships to resolve historic and systemic social imbalances and inequalities.
Johnson resides in Baltimore, MD with his wife Jacqueline and loves to be called dad by Madison, Myles, and Malcolm. To learn more about Jeff Johnson, please visit www.jeffijohnson.com.
