Jennifer Jantzen covers many things each day—from the latest breaking news to long stretches of I-44! This busy 32-year-old juggles the hectic pace of being an Assistant News Director at Oklahoma City’s FOX 25 with a leadership role in her church and raising her children Ramsey, age 7, and Morgen, age 5. Here’s more on how she keeps on top of her professional responsibilities, family life and a commute of more than 100 miles each day.
What’s one thing most people don’t know about you?
I’m a sucker for fairy tales! Every little girl loves them, and I never grew out of it.
What are you passionate about?
People. I love watching, learning about and loving people. Their stories inspire me and help me find blessings in my own life.
How has motherhood changed you?
My children have changed the way I think about my career, my home, my clutter and, more importantly, my actions. I watch them watch me and I realize their opinion is the most important.
How do you banish stress?
Still working on that one!
What inspires you?
Watching my husband on the sidelines of a basketball court. He tells me how much one athlete has improved or how the team finally got something they’ve been working on. Plus, he’s super dreamy—who isn’t inspired by dreamy?
Along with your job as a mom, what do you do?
I am the Assistant News Director for the morning news broadcast at FOX 25 in Oklahoma City. I book and schedule guests for the morning news show. I also represent FOX with our charitable partners such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, The American Heart Association and the Alzheimer’s Association.
My husband and I also lead Children’s Church on Wednesday nights. It’s not a paying gig, but I absolutely love it!
What do you like most about your job?
I work with the best group of people. And at any given moment, our jobs can get tense. Having humor around me makes all the difference in the world.
What are you most proud of?
My marriage and family. And not just our little foursome, but the larger family that I come from.
How do you find balance in your life?
Flexibility. If it doesn’t work exactly they way I planned, that’s okay.
Advice for other moms?
Be honest and stick to your guns. Be the kind of woman you want your daughter to grow up to be and your son to marry.
Where are you from originally?
I’m from Chickasha. Never thought I’d live here again, but my hubby’s job moved us back and it has been an absolute blessing.
What’s the biggest challenge in your life?
When and where to sleep! In the 19.5 hours I’m awake every day, sleep is always on my mind.
How do you help others?
I try really hard to be happy and to look for ways to be encouraging.
What is your parenting style?
Hands on and involved. I keep my kids doing the same thing with me. I want them to be part of all we do!
Favorite quote or advice about motherhood?
There are no rules about parenting that work for everyone. Enjoy finding your own!
Quick Facts About Jennifer
- What are five words that describe you? Happy, creative, funny, kind and dedicated.
- What’s on your playlist? Elvis, Van Morrison, James Taylor, 90’s rock ballads, Chris Tomlin and Mercy Me.
- What’s your favorite family outing? The Wichita Mountains. The kids love it and I love watching them.
- What’s your favorite place for dinner? A tiny little pizza place in Chickasha called BJ’s Pizza. The best pizza around and super affordable.
- What’s your favorite TV show? The Fox 25 Morning News, of course! I also love Hoarders (it makes me feel better about my messes!) and Hallmark Channel movies.
Brooke Barnett is the Assistant Editor of MetroFamily Magazine.
