About Jeff Johnson

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.

  It seems like out of nowhere Kevin Hart‘s ex-wife, Torrei Hart became publicly bitter about Kevin Hart and his new life without her. The ex-couple seemed to co-parent well, but she’s recently been putting him and his new girlfriend on blast. Listen to this edition of 3 Things You Should Know to hear why Jeff Johnson says Torrei needs a counseling […]

  Harvard doctors came up with a new disease they’ve decided to name “hood disease.” Hood disease is reportedly a mental health disorder that is acquired by living in neighborhoods that cause trauma and stress. Should it have been named something else? Jeff Johnson says yes, but listen to this edition of 3 Things You Should Know to hear what you […]

  We’ve been talking about Jay Z, Beyonce , and Solange all week long. While it’s been fun speculating and laughing at memes, Jeff Johnson says it’s something to be learned from their family conflict. Listen to this edition of 3 Things You Should Know to hear great points we all need to sit back and think about. Click here for more 3 Things You Should […]

  No one can believe the way Beyonce stood back and let her sister attack her husband. Others can’t believe Jay Z was able to hold his composure in the situation. But Jeff Johnson explains why they kept their cool. Listen to this edition of 3 Things You Should Know to hear why they sat back and let Solange go […]

  The midterm elections are coming up, and we can’t stress enough how important it is that you vote. Listen to this edition of 3 Things You Should Know to hear Jeff Johnson explain how you can help make history. Plus, hear what he’s challenging “The Rickey Smiley Morning Show” listeners to do. Click here for more 3 Things You Should Know from […]

Many are calling Leslie Jones‘ “Saturday Night Live” skit painful to watch. The comedian tried to make light of slavery, and people weren’t happy about it. But listen to this edition of 3 Things You Should Know to hear Jeff Johnson explain why we should celebrate the fact there’s representation like Leslie Jones to discuss topics like slavery on a […]

  People are speaking out about the released audio of Donald Sterling‘s racist rant he made privately.  But should he be held accountable for a private conversation? “The Rickey Smiley Morning Show” express there’s a lot of things they say in private they don’t want the public to hear. Listen to the audio player to […]

  Unfortunately, people are still protesting Sean “Diddy” Combs speaking at Howard University‘s commencement. The reports say the issue is the Forbes list hip-hop mogul didn’t graduate from college. But that doesn’t make logical sense being that Howard, among other prestigious universities across the world, have had commencement speakers in the past who did not […]

  Jail time, an apology, and millions of dollars later; people are still talking about Michael Vick‘s dog fighting case. Reportedly, students where the New York Jets practice started a petition to keep Vick off the campus. Listen to this edition of 3 Things You Should Know to hear Jeff Johnson explain why people need to stop hating on Michael […]

  In this edition of 3 Things You Should Know,  Jeff Johnson lets us know instead of Florida removing the “Stand Your Ground” law, they are trying to expand it. Listen to the audio player to hear what the expanded law includes. Plus, hear how this could work in the favor of Marissa Alexander, but end up hurting more […]