Gail Johnson

Hello!

I'm the health editor of Vancouver's Georgia Straight newspaper, where I also copy edit and write about everything from food and restaurants to dance and news. I've earned multiple writing awards and nominations during my dozen years in journalism (including nods from the Western Magazine Awards, the Jack Webster Foundation, and the National Magazine Awards). Earlier in my career worked as a reporter for the Province newspaper, one of two Vancouver dailies. I've had work published in the Globe and Mail, the National Post, Chatelaine, Alive, Adbusters, the Vancouver Sun, and other publications. I've also appeared as a guest speaker at the Association of Alternative Newspapers conference.

I enjoy health writing because I'm passionate about physical and mental wellness. (I wanted to be a doctor but foolishly pursued languages instead.) When I'm not writing, I teach group-fitness classes at various Vancouver health clubs and gyms. I'm a certified instructor with the British Columbia Recreation and Parks Association. I can't get enough high-intensity exercise, which does wonders not only for your heart and lungs but also for your mind and soul.

And I love writing about food because--although I'm not crazy about the term--I am definitely a "foodie". The first thing I think about in the morning is what to serve for dinner.