Richardson is the star of more than two dozen fitness and aerobics videos, including the "Buns of Steel" series. She is the host of The Word Network's "Sweating in the Spirit" and "The Donna Richardson Show" on TV One, and is the former ESPN fitness pro and NBC Weekend Today fitness expert. She is spokesperson for the American Heart Association and founder of StayFit Kids, a fitness program for inner-city youth.

She recently teamed up with the State of Florida to raise awareness among African Americans about obesity-related health problems caused by poor diet and exercise habits. Developed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services in conjunction with the Florida Caucus of Black State Legislators, Richardson will be featured in print and broadcast messages and at educational outreach events throughout Florida. The wife of syndicated radio host Tom Joyner, Donna sat down for an interview with Onyx.

Q: DONNA, I was looking at your photos today. You have such definition, there is no doubt in my mind that you are totally committed to health and fitness. How long has this been a passion of yours? I've been in the fitness business for 18 years. I grew up playing sports and dancing so I think it was a natural transition to pursue a career in fitness.You know you have been a household name for a while now, how does that make you feel? I don't spend time thinking about titles people have given me. I focus my energy and efforts on inspiring and empowering people to live active lifestyles. My Sweating in the Spirit ministry is improving lives, transforming lives and saving lives. I feel good to be able to serve people in a way that creates positive change.

Q: What do you think about the government getting involved in obesity and pushing bills that would add sin taxes for sodas, require calorie counts on restaurant menus and ban "foods of minimum nutritional value" in schools?I feel we all have a responsibility to take action concerning our health. We don't have a health concern, we have a health crisis. Over 50% of African American women are obese which increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease and other illnesses. First, individually we have to make a choice to live a healthier lifestyle. Second, we have to fight for better healthcare; the government has to be held accountable.

As you know, kids like junk food, and so do us grown kids. Do you have any helpful hints for kids with hefty appetites? Junk food should be enjoyed in moderation. Instead of having junk food everyday, think of having a little once a week. When it comes to food, what is your weakness? I love all kinds of food. One of favorite foods is pizza. My second favorite is fried chicken and waffles which I have every now and then.

Describe for me a day in the life of Donna Richardson. Each day is exciting, different but always interesting. I'm on the road a lot so I'm always meeting people, learning about different cultures and exploring other countries.

Tell me about your involvement with the Florida Department of Agriculture. I signed with the Florida Agriculture Department as their wellness spokesperson. Our focus is to encourage African Americans to eat more fresh produce and be physically active. My husband, Tom Joyner and I just moved into our home in Miami so it's really cool to participate in community work in Florida. My goal is always to be a part of the process that creates change locally, nationally and internationally.

Where were you born? I was born in Washington, DC and I grew up in Silver Spring, MD. I love DC and visit as often as I can.

And you got your formal education from…I attended Hollins College and University of Maryland.

Donna complete this sentence for me. I am happiest when… I'm with my husband and it's just the two us enjoying each other. Professionally, I'm the happiest because I get to bless others. God is using me as a vessel to help people become obedient and honor and take care of their bodies -- which are their temples.

Okay, my saddest moment was when... my grandmother, "Big Momma" passed away.

You know, I was pleased to know that you and your husband own a home in Miami. It gave me a ton of additional reasons to try to get an interview with you. I know it has not been terribly long since you and Tom Joyner were married, so how soon after did you purchase a home in Miami? Tom and I have been married for five years. My husband purchased the house in Miami for me as a gift for our forth wedding anniversary.

Who are your neighbors? Are they as famous as you and Tom?We have only met a few neighbors. I'm sure they know about us because we have added a little spice to the neighborhood.

You also have a home in Texas? Although we live in Texas, we divide our time between Dallas and Miami.

Tell me something about the tour you are on now -- "Sisters in the Spirit" I believe it is. Sisters in the Spirit Tour impacted my life and I'm forever grateful. For five weeks we (Juanita Bynum, Yolanda Adams, Kelly Price, Sheila E, Martha Munizzi and Rizen) blessed and healed woman across the country. The focus was to celebrate the ministry of music to strengthen the mind, body and spirit. God brought us together so we could continue to be blessed and share the blessing with others. It was a beautiful experience and I would like to send a shout out to my sisters in spirit, "Love Ya."