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Conversations with the Inspiring Jessica Parsons

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Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Parsons.

So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
They say, “life begins at the end of your comfort zone,” and for me, that was tackling television news. My journey started as an intern in the 90s at KPNX-12 News and KTVK-3TV. There were few local television jobs available, and with my ASU graduation date looming, boy was I nervous! But timing is everything, and the most unprecedented thing was about to happen.

A network shake-up across the country resulted in 3TV becoming the Valley’s newest independent station. How did that affect me? As 3TV lost ABC and “Good Morning America,” I became the luckiest intern on the planet! With three hours of programming to fill with local news, there would now be a position for me. “Good Morning Arizona” was born, and before my journalism degree was inked, I was working in my industry as a student. Each day was scary, new, exciting, and a total adventure.

With one ear glued to police scanners, I got crews out the door as an assignment editor for our shiny, new morning show. I recited the mantra, “fake it ’til you make it,” and within a couple of years, I was producing “Good Morning Arizona” and leading a newsroom of writers through high-profile stories, including the Oklahoma City bombing, the O.J. Simpson trial, and the JonBenet Ramsey case.

In 1996, I became a reporter for WHBQ-FOX 13 in Memphis. It took every ounce of courage I had to step in front of the camera. But, it was a goal and a dream I challenged myself to face head-on. Even through bouts of performance anxiety, I forced myself to power through and find my inner confidence.

I returned to 3TV one year later to produce an evening news health franchise. It felt so good to be home, sharing stories about new medical breakthrough’s and local health hero’s. This is still one of my all-time favorite gigs!

Five years later, I left local television to start a family and pursue a hot real estate market, working for the developers of DC Ranch and Silverleaf. I really thought my days in the media were over. But, fate and timing had stepped in once again.

A chance real estate meeting with the publishers of Phoenix Woman magazine propelled me right back into my dream career of being in the media. I became the Editor-in-Chief of the publication in 2008, which led to becoming the editor of two other Valley publications, all the while freelance producing road shows for Arizona Highways TV. Phew! It was a busy couple of years!

In 2014, I was blessed to be asked to return to “Good Morning Arizona,” where it all began. It was a full-circle moment. And, meant to be! Here, you’ll find me behind-the-scenes producing Emmy nominated Field Trip Friday road shows, daily in-studio and field segments, and every now and again, you’ll see me in front of the camera reporting for various newscasts on both 3TV and CBS-5. I have to pinch myself sometimes because I am truly living my dream.

I enjoy telling intriguing stories and sharing them through this platform, and I appreciate the creativity that news producing and TV reporting provides. But, most of all, I love my morning show team and the people I work with. It truly is “Arizona’s family, and I couldn’t be more thrilled and honored to be a part of it.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
None of us get to our destination without the help and support of others. It takes mentors, confidante’s, trusted friends, supportive companions, and strong women to lean on.

I always had the best support from family and friends to continue my pursuits above all else. We all encounter roadblocks, but nothing is permanent, and I simply view these as minor set-backs. If you have true joy and enthusiasm for what you do, it will be evident to all.

For me, even after all these years in my field, my confidence can ebb and flow just like anyone else, and it can be a struggle. But I draw strength from believing in myself, positive self-talk, and knowing the impact our stories can have on our community.

My advice for young women starting out in journalism would be to ignore all nay-sayers and relinquish the need for approval from others. Once you let that go, you will feel a weight lifted, and a freedom to be yourself. It’s also important to remember, it’s not about you, it’s about the story. So, just tell the story. I strive to strike this balance every day.

What should we know about KTVK-3TV’s Good Morning Arizona & CBS-5 News Reporter/Producer? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
“There’s nothing like having a long-term goal, that takes long-term.” Every time I think of that sentence, it makes me laugh. It’s words of wisdom from my funny dad who jokingly commented on just how long it’s taken me to report on the airwaves in my hometown. Approximately 22 years.

But, I think it shows my tenacity, fortitude, and drive to never give up on a goal or dream. That sentence can even be applied to other areas of my life. Anyone who knows me can tell you I exemplify a no-quit attitude and determination that burns within me. I’m competitive, I like to win, and I love a good challenge.

For instance, I recently set my sights on getting healthy and strong. I’ve done it before, losing 30 pounds probably six times in my life. It’s a long-term goal that has definitely taken long-term to figure out, manage and learn to maintain. But it’s my story, and I embrace it.

My secret to success is no secret. I attempt to burn more than I eat. I track my calories daily, sweat it all off four times per week in Orange Theory, weight lift twice per week, and ballroom dance every chance I get. It might sound exhausting to some, and even unsustainable. But, for me, it’s invigorating and gives me the charge I need to live my work, life, balance margin to margin.

Who do you look up to? How have they inspired you?
I find inspiration all around me. Even the simplest ideas can springboard me into action. I’m moved by powerful quotes, the beauty of our Arizona sunsets, and especially thoughtful words from friends and family.

Each day, creative projects at work fill me with joy, passion, and purpose. To feel accomplished is the key. And, I draw the most strength when I think of my teenaged son, and the example I’d like to set for him. I hope he sees my strong work ethic and love of family and friends as something he’ll emulate in his life.

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