If you’ve ever watched morning television in Atlanta, chances are you’ve spent time with Paul Milliken. He’s the familiar face bringing energy, curiosity, and a sense of fun to Fox 5’s Good Day Atlanta. Whether he’s out on location or stepping in to deliver the weather, he has a way of making viewers feel like they’re right there with him.
But his story starts long before the live shots and behind-the-scenes adventures.
“I majored in broadcast journalism in college at the University of Florida (yes...I'm a Gator!). My initial goal was to study print journalism, because writing is really my first love, but I'm a big ham, too, and couldn't resist the bright lights of the news studio!”
That mix of storytelling and personality clearly paid off. “I've been the feature reporter in Atlanta since 2012, which means I get to spotlight the people, places, and events that make North Georgia so amazing. It's the absolute best. I get to explore the state and bring our viewers right along with me.”
What viewers may not realize is just how varied his career has been.
“I started in a small town and worked my way up, doing just about every job in television news that exists. I've edited newscasts, I've rolled teleprompters—you name it. Every job has been a valuable experience and has led me to where I am today.”
That hands-on journey shows up in the kinds of stories he’s drawn to most. “I’m a fan of ‘behind the scenes’ kinds of things. I’m a curious guy, so any time I get to explore places that the public doesn’t typically get to see, I’m excited. And I love adventure—from riding roller coasters to climbing mountains and crawling through caves. People seem to like to see me get down and dirty on live TV!”
Off camera, his world is just as full. “A perfect day off involves travel. My husband Steven and I spent time in Thailand late last year and it was wonderful.” When he’s not traveling, he stays busy. “So many hobbies! I'm always writing something—fiction and non-fiction. I'm a huge fan of horror movies, especially from the 1970s or 1980s. I also have some strange collections, including dozens of different editions of the board game Clue!”
Locally, he has his go-to spots. “I love the Roswell Riverwalk for a great morning of exercise. The Roswell Public Library has a great ‘Friends of…’ bookstore inside, and I pop in often to check out the selection. If I’m in Marietta, I have to stop by Marietta Diner!”
Grounded by family, he shares, “My parents are definitely the biggest influence on the man I am today. Both devoted their lives and careers to helping others. They are the most accepting and loving people you'll ever meet, and they both have a passion for learning that really rubbed off on me.”
And for anyone still figuring things out, his advice is refreshingly simple: “You've got time. So much of my life has been spent hurrying to get somewhere, trying to reach the next step in my career and accomplish the next big goal. Honestly, if I could go back, I wouldn't rush so much. I'd try to enjoy the moment more and trust that things will happen when they're supposed to.”
Next up? Author. “I'm really excited that my first book is being published at the end of this year,” he shares, co-writing the memoir of Ms. Louvain Demps, a Motown-era singer whose story he can’t wait to share.
“I am so lucky to get to connect with people through my job. Seriously, so lucky.”