Table of Contents
Embracing Respect and Kindness
Meteorologist Adam Joseph has been captivating audiences for over a decade with his fashionable attire and warm smile, providing local weather updates since he joined the 6ABC Action News weather team in April 2005.
In August 2014, Joseph made history in Philadelphia as the city’s first prominent on-air news personality to publicly come out. His bravery landed him a spot on the OUT100 list in 2015, as one of the first in his field to embrace his truth. Despite this milestone, Joseph’s career has thrived. He is now happily married to Karl, raising their two children, Jacob and Hannah, while involving them in both his on-camera work and social media presence.
Joseph has become a trailblazer, showcasing that there should be no distinction between gay and straight families. He envisions a world where labels become irrelevant and families are solely defined by love and humanity, rather than gender roles or sexual orientation.
Climate Change’s Impact on Local Areas
Adam Joseph stresses the undeniable global presence of climate change. Earth’s temperature has been increasing at an alarming rate, with seven of the ten warmest years on record occurring since 2014, and the remaining three since 2005. The consequences reverberate locally, resulting in more frequent historical flooding events, an escalating number of tornadoes (with a record-breaking 51 tornado warnings issued by the NWS in 2020, almost half of which were confirmed), and increasingly severe thunderstorms. Winters have become shorter, warming by approximately five degrees compared to half a century ago.
These changes lead to extended growing seasons, consequently lengthening allergy periods. Furthermore, winters now witness 32 more days above freezing compared to 50 years ago. Predictions indicate that the Jersey shore could face a sea-level rise of 10 to 12 inches in the upcoming three decades, a rise that previously took a century to occur. These alterations impact not only humans but also vegetation, farmers, wildlife, and the adaptability of various species.
The intensification of storms presents a worrisome future, with amplified property damage and landscape transformations. Remarkably, five of the top ten hottest years in the United States have occurred recently. Philadelphia and its surrounding areas have warmed by over three degrees annually in the last five decades. It is vital that we collectively strive to preserve and protect our environment.
Embracing the Meaning of Pride
AJ, as Adam Joseph is affectionately known, believes that pride revolves around self-acceptance and love for oneself. In 2019, he hosted the first-ever on-air broadcast of the Philadelphia Gay Pride parade, marking a significant milestone. Additionally, AJ and his family actively participate in Philadelphia Family Pride events, which cater to LGBTQ families.
Fashion and Fitness Insights
Curious about AJ’s fashion choices and fitness routine? He advises looking for bargains and never paying full price. AJ often wears suits from Bonobos, shirts from Charles Tyrwhitt, and a mix of shoes. He confesses a distaste for suits, favoring a more casual style of jeans, t-shirts, and sweatshirts. AJ remains fit by daily workouts in his basement gym, established during the COVID-19 pandemic. Balancing his love for desserts and vodka, AJ prioritizes running and weightlifting. Even at 44, he proudly maintains his pre-dad abs, refusing to let them fade away.
AJ follows a predictable diet consisting of two egg whites and honey tea for breakfast, a protein shake with almond milk, avocado, banana, blueberries, super greens, and collagen for lunch, an apple or peanuts as a mid-day snack, and another cup of tea. Dinners typically include protein and vegetables, with dessert frequently added to the mix. Although AJ describes his diet as monotonous, its low-caloric nature helps him stay in shape.
The Spirit of Competition
AJ admits to being competitive every second of every day. Regardless of the situation, he always gives his best effort, acknowledging that perfection is unattainable but striving to be the best version of himself daily.
Culinary Adventures and Gardening Addiction
AJ’s love for cooking shines through as he expresses a fondness for preparing desserts. Weekends often find him asking his husband, Karl, what dessert they are craving, resulting in a three-night indulgence, usually consisting of chocolate-based recipes. AJ thoroughly enjoys cooking shows and home improvement programs. He thrives on experimenting with recipes and adding his personal touch. Some even affectionately refer to him as the male Martha Stewart, recognizing his prowess in these domestic domains.
AJ’s passion for gardening extends to both flowers and vegetables. He starts some seeds indoors in early April before transplanting them outdoors alongside cold-tolerant plants like peas, broccoli, and lettuce. Mother’s Day typically marks the transition for flower and vegetable planting, although climate change has allowed for earlier starts in recent years. AJ cherishes his lime tree, relishing the freshness of homegrown citrus. Additionally, he delights in the beauty of his hydrangea trees and dahlias, both spectacular when in full bloom and perfect for adorning vases.
Words of Wisdom for His Younger Self
AJ would counsel his 13-year-old self to recognize the inner strength he possessed, the very strength that carried him through challenging times. Despite enduring bullying, loneliness, and a tumultuous family environment, AJ was able to navigate these obstacles while working after school to help his mother. Reflecting on his resilience, AJ attributes his success to the inner fortitude he possessed, which, at the time, he was unable to realize.
Love, Dating, and Fatherhood
When it comes to dating, AJ emphasizes his preference for traditional methods, avoiding online dating apps completely. He appreciates the organic experience of meeting someone in person and striking up a conversation. AJ met his husband, Karl, in such a serendipitous manner. Although he initially planned on staying home one evening, friends persuaded him to go out, leading him to a chance encounter with Karl at a bar. They connected over their shared interests in racing and fitness, and their relationship blossomed from there.
AJ and Karl’s decision to become fathers stemmed from their mutual desire for a family. However, the lack of LGBTQ friends with children made their journey more challenging, requiring extensive independent research. Nevertheless, the excitement overshadowed any fear they may have felt.
Despite society’s misconceptions, AJ and his family have been fortunate to avoid harassment. Instead, they have been met with immense love and support from unexpected corners. People from various walks of life, including blue-collar workers and construction workers, regularly express their admiration for the family AJ and Karl have built.
The Impact of the “Don’t Say Gay” Bill in Florida
AJ does not mince words when discussing the “Don’t say gay” bill passed in Florida. He finds the legislation hurtful and believes it aims to erase the LGBTQ community’s identity. Contrary to popular belief, the bill extends well beyond sexual education, with the potential to stifle conversations regarding gender identity. AJ highlights the importance of recognizing diversity in today’s world, emphasizing that children encounter diverse relationships and diverse gender expressions every day. By ignoring these realities, society risks closing minds to acceptance. The bill’s repercussions have left teachers uncertain about what they can and cannot say, fearing legal consequences if they engage with these important topics.
Ultimately, AJ affirms that the bill aims to further the political agenda while disadvantaging families like his and potentially harming future LGBTQ individuals.
Future Projects and Charitable Causes
AJ dreams of pursuing additional endeavors beyond his weather-centric career. The realization that life offers more than the daily grind encouraged him to explore his talents fully. Although weather remains his primary passion, AJ discovered a knack for cooking, baking, gardening, and home improvement. He even completed a cookbook during the COVID-19 pandemic, aspiring to publish it one day. AJ believes that life is too short to confine oneself within rigid boundaries.
As for charitable causes, AJ feels strongly about cancer awareness, hospice care, and combating bullying. These causes resonate with him and represent areas where he hopes to raise awareness and make a difference.
Encouragement for Struggling Teens
To teenagers grappling with their sexual identity, AJ offers reassurance that numerous resources exist within both the community and online spaces. While he acknowledges that some families may not accept LGBTQ individuals, he emphasizes the existence of a vast community ready to embrace and support them. AJ advises against allowing external pressure to force premature coming out, stressing that coming out is a deeply personal journey, and there is no universally right or wrong time to do so.
Pursuing a Career in Meteorology
AJ finds meteorology to be an intriguing and rewarding career path, particularly as climate change and volatile weather patterns continue to influence the world. With increasing demand in various sectors for weather experts, AJ encourages aspiring meteorologists to explore all available career options and consider fields beyond television broadcasting. He emphasizes the need for scientists in diverse industries.
In conclusion, AJ’s ultimate desire is for a world where respect, kindness, and the absence of judgment prevail. He shares his passion for life with others, hoping to inspire and motivate those around him. Don’t forget to visit 5 WS for more exciting content.
