Jen Epstein: The Morning Anchor Who Drives Tampa Bay’s Day

For nearly two decades, the familiar, reassuring presence of Jennifer “Jen” Epstein has been a constant for Tampa Bay viewers.

More than just an anchor delivering the latest headlines, she’s become the energetic voice and friendly face that kicks off the day on FOX 13’s Good Day Tampa Bay.

Jen’s journey from a traffic reporter to a key morning anchor—and a champion for her community—is a compelling portrait of dedication, skill, and genuine human connection.

Jen Epstein is a testament to the power of committed, local journalism. She’s not just reporting to Tampa Bay; she’s an active, passionate part of it, and that authenticity is the secret ingredient in her enduring appeal.

From “Traffic” to the Anchor Desk: A Career Built on Consistency

Jen Epstein’s career trajectory at FOX 13 (WTVT) is a classic broadcast success story. She started her run in Tampa Bay in March 2006 as the station’s trusted traffic reporter, navigating the region’s busy roads and providing crucial updates during the morning rush.

This early role was more than just a stepping stone—it was a deep dive into the rhythms of the Tampa community. It required quick thinking, clear communication, and a calm demeanor under pressure, all traits that prepared her for the next big step in her career: the anchor chair.

Today, Jen is a core part of the morning team, anchoring Good Day Tampa Bay weekdays from 4 to 6 a.m. Her longevity at the station—a significant feat in the often-transient world of local news—speaks volumes about her skill and the loyalty she commands from viewers.

Jen Epstein’s Career Timeline Highlights

• Early Career: Started as a news and traffic reporter for dozens of local radio stations with Metro Networks in Allentown, PA.

• 2006: Moved to Tampa, landing a traffic-reporting role at FOX 13 (WTVT).

• Current Role: Anchor of Good Day Tampa Bay (4-6 a.m. weekdays), and a producer for her signature series.

• Journalistic Achievement: Winner of the Jessica Savitch Award for Excellence in Journalism—a prestigious nod to her work ethic and quality reporting, named for the pioneering female anchor.

Education and Upbringing: The Pennsylvania Roots

Jen’s path to the Sunshine State began in the Northeast. Raised in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania—a town of hardworking families— Jen learned early that stories connect us.

“I grew up watching the world change around me,” she once reflected in a FOX 13 feature, her voice steady but eyes sparkling with that small-town spark.

Jen’s broadcast bug bit hard at Temple University in Philadelphia. Graduating cum laude with a degree in Broadcast Journalism, she didn’t just study the craft—she lived it.

Her debut?

Anchoring “Temple Update,” a student-run half-hour news show where she wore every hat: producer, writer, director, on-camera talent. It was chaotic, exhilarating, and exactly the boot camp she needed.

That hustle earned her the Jessica Savitch Award for excellence in journalism—a nod to the trailblazing reporter who broke barriers in a male-dominated field. “It felt like validation,” Jen shared in a 2017 Facebook post marking her FOX 13 milestone. “Like, okay, kid, you’ve got what it takes.”

At 23, fresh-faced and fearless, she packed her bags for Allentown, Pennsylvania, diving into Metro Networks. There, she reported news and traffic for dozens of radio stations, her voice cutting through static like a lifeline for rush-hour commuters.

One year later—March 2006—she landed in Tampa as FOX 13’s traffic reporter. “How long has Jen Epstein been with FOX 13?” you ask? Nearly two decades, evolving from chopper-chasing updates to co-anchoring the sunrise shift.

It’s a career arc that screams persistence, especially in an industry where 70% of journalists face burnout, per industry stats. Jen? She’s the exception, turning obstacles into on-air gold.

• Key Milestone: 2006: Traffic guru joins Good Day Tampa Bay.

• Big Leap: 2010s: Shifts to anchoring, launching “Fierce Females.”

• Recent Win: 2025: Wellness Week goes viral with recovery spotlights.

Her path mirrors peers like Tampa’s own Robin Rodriguez, but Jen’s edge? That raw empathy, honed from real-life detours.

Beyond the Desk: The Personal Passions of Jen Epstein

In a profession that demands an early wake-up call and a constant focus on public events, Jen has cultivated a vibrant personal life centered on wellness, lifelong learning, and deep community involvement. This focus on balance helps humanize the familiar face viewers see every day.

Family and Home Life

Behind every great broadcast is a great support system—and for Jen, that’s husband Jeremy Cooke. Their love story? A classic opposites-attract rom-com.

In 2014, at 31, Jen tied the knot with then-35-year-old Jeremy in a black-and-white wedding at Tampa’s Jackson’s Bistro.

“We chose black and white for that timeless vibe,” she gushed in a Knot.com feature, her gown flowing like morning mist.

Fast-forward to 2023: “9 years of marriage. A lifetime of love,” Jen posted on Instagram, cuddling up with Jeremy amid beachside bliss.

Fans pondering “Is Jennifer Epstein still married?” can rest easy—yes, and thriving. Jeremy, now a University of South Florida grad (earned in 2017 after three years of night classes), is her rock. “He’s the calm to my chaos,” she quipped in a 2017 shoutout.

Then there’s their daughter, a spirited mini-Jen who’s all about beach days and puppy chases. “Jen Epstein kids” searches spike for glimpses, but Jen keeps it private, sharing just enough heart: family hikes, holiday hijinks. No names dropped, but the joy? Overflowing.

And let’s not forget Otis and Benson, her rescue dogs—furry therapists who steal every family photo. Jen’s an “adoptdontshop” advocate, volunteering with the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. It’s this blend of vulnerability and vitality that humanizes her: a mom juggling scripts and sippy cups, proving anchors are people too.

What is Jennifer Epstein’s age?

Jennifer “Jen” Epstein was born on January 29, 1983, in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, which makes her 42 years old as of 2025. Her zodiac sign is Aquarius.

Facing the Storm: Jen’s Battle for Balance

At 33, Jen hit a wall that no traffic report could navigate: addiction. “I faced the fight of a lifetime—and won,” she revealed in a gripping 2020 Tampa General Hospital video, her voice cracking just enough to pull you in.

What started as a high-octane career’s hidden toll spiraled into a personal crisis. Chemo? No—therapy, support groups, and sheer will. By 2021, she was in remission from the chaos, emerging stronger.

This isn’t tabloid fodder; it’s testament. In May 2025, Jen interviewed ex-WWE star Shannon Moore on “Unscripted: Journey to Sobriety,” her questions laced with lived insight: “What flipped the switch for you?” Viewers searching “What happened to Jen Epstein” find not downfall, but uplift—a reminder that recovery isn’t linear, but it’s possible.

“Sharing helps others know they’re not alone,” she told Tampa Bay Thrives in a 2025 reel. Emotional? Absolutely. Empowering? Game-changing.

Soul Shine: Yoga Mats, Meals on Wheels, and Making Wishes

Jen’s off-air life? A wellness whirlwind. Picture her unrolling a yoga mat at dawn, chasing that teaching certification while brushing up on French phrases. “The beach calls, but so does a good book,” she admits, her free time a mix of salty air and page-turners.

Community? It’s her compass. Through Make-A-Wish Foundation, she’s granted dreams for kids facing illness—think pirate-themed parties echoing her Gasparilla glee. Meals on Wheels deliveries keep her grounded, chatting with seniors over soup. And that Humane Society gig? It’s where Otis and Benson found their forever home.

These aren’t resume fillers; they’re Jen’s way of paying forward. In a field often criticized for detachment, she bridges the gap, much like Oprah’s early talk-show empathy but scaled to local impact. Future prediction? Watch for Jen’s yoga retreats or a sobriety memoir—her “Fierce Females” could spotlight her next.

• Daily Ritual: Sunrise yoga for mental resets.

• Give-Back Gem: Coordinating Wish kid adventures.

• Fun Fact: French lessons for future Paris getaways with the fam.

The Ledger: Jen Epstein Stats

Physically? At 5’6″ and around 132 pounds, Jen’s frame supports her active vibe: measurements stay under wraps, but her wellness routine screams balance. Nationality: Proud American. Ethnicity: Rooted in Pennsylvania’s melting pot, with that classic East Coast warmth.

It’s not flashy wealth; it’s earned equity in a life well-lived.

A Champion for the Community

Jen isn’t one to simply read stories about local non-profits; she actively supports them. Her community involvement is a cornerstone of her identity:

• Make-A-Wish Foundation

• Humane Society of Tampa Bay (no surprise, given her two rescue dogs!)

• Meals on Wheels

Net Worth, Salary, and Media Impact

While the exact numbers for Jen Epstein’s net worth and salary are not publicly disclosed—as is typical for local news anchors—it is safe to say her earnings reflect her nearly 20 years of experience in the top 20 media market of Tampa Bay.

A long-standing anchor at a major affiliate like FOX 13 (WTVT) commands a significant salary, especially considering her dual role as both an anchor and a producer of specialized content. Her consistency and positive community presence make her an invaluable asset to the station and a highly marketable media personality.

The Unique Impact of Jen Epstein’s Reporting

What truly sets Jen apart is her dedication to creating content that goes deeper than the headlines. Her “Fierce Females” series is a prime example. This segment highlights women in the Tampa Bay area who are making a profound difference—whether through entrepreneurship, non-profit work, or breaking barriers in male-dominated fields.

In a world where news can be overwhelming, Jen chooses to focus on stories that inspire, uplift, and inform the local audience on important health and community matters. This commitment to positive, service-oriented journalism is a trademark of her successful brand.

Conclusion: The Anchor Who Keeps Tampa Bay Grounded

Jen Epstein’s career at FOX 13 is a masterclass in building a trusted, enduring presence in local news. She moved from a focused role as a traffic reporter to the demanding position of morning anchor by combining journalistic excellence—evidenced by her Jessica Savitch Award—with genuine warmth.

Her life off-camera, dedicated to yoga, education, and animal advocacy, only enhances her public image, proving that the vibrant, committed personality viewers see each morning is the real deal. Jen Epstein isn’t just reporting the news; she’s part of the fabric of the Tampa Bay community, and her legacy is one of unwavering service and genuine positivity.

Her Colleagues at FOX 13

Jennifer Epstein works alongside a dedicated team on Good Day Tampa Bay and throughout the station, including:

• Russell Rhodes
• Charley Belcher
• Dave Osterberg
• Lindsay Morton
• Laura Moody

Sources List

• Official FOX 13 (WTVT) Talent Bio for Jennifer Epstein (Primary Source for career facts, education, and personal interests).

• Tampa Bay Times archives on local media coverage (Context for market standing).

• Temple University School of Media and Communication alumni features (Confirmation of Jessica Savitch Award and Temple Update participation).

• Non-profit organization press releases (Confirmation of volunteer work with Make-A-Wish, Humane Society, and Meals on Wheels).