She started her career as an assistant in the FOX Sports HR department, moved into an on-air role, lays current claim to being the host of FOX NFL Kickoff (the Sunday morning NFL pregame show), and is currently the co-host of “Calm Down” alongside Erin Andrews, iHeart Radio’s new podcast. Now, Charissa Thompson is starting another not-so-simple side gig in the world of interior design via House & Home, a full-service firm offering both virtual and at-home experiences across the U.S. Here’s what else Thompson is making time for now—all while offering an exclusive look at how the above happens from home.
On BTS Production: Home became my studio this past year. Home also became the birthplace for my new design company, so that was exciting and not something that I used to do outside of my own home. I’ve always loved home design, but it wasn’t born into a business until COVID. I think it’s fair to say that a lot of things changed for me during COVID for the better, and I say that knowing it was a difficult time for a lot of people. I don’t like to sit there and say, “Oh, it was wonderful for me.” I think I tried to make the most of the situation and my home allowed me to build my business.
On Her Garage HQ: I pretty much turned my garage into my home-design headquarters, mainly because I didn’t want my dining table to be the place I eat, work and do interviews. I was like, “There’s got to be a division of space.” I made that a project that felt fun to do because, that way, I’m doing projects for other people’s spaces. This is a fun transformation to be able to convert a garage into an office that still feels like home. That was fun.
On At-Home Fitness: I lost my yoga studio this past year, and for me, it was a sanctuary. I tried many times to replicate the studio at home. That part I really missed, but I’ve always been a runner. I always said this about running: All you need is a pair of sneakers. Being able to put on shoes and get outside the walls of your home was a good escape during COVID—so even with the closing down of gyms and the yoga studio, there’s still always the outdoors.
On Hitting the Road Again: I actually just got off the road yesterday. I was in Florida for an interview and for a house install that I was doing, so it’s nice when my two worlds collide. I forgot how flying airplanes and air-conditioned hotel rooms are tough on everything, so I tried to make sure that I stayed hydrated with my hair, my skin, my nails, all of those things. That’s definitely something that is a big part of my routine: Hydration, in all facets.
Also, I always make sure to bring my own products! Do not use the hotel soap! I recently did that and was like, “Charissa, amateur hour here.” With all due respect to hotel products, they’re not the greatest. Besides that, I’ve gotten pretty good at doing my own hair and makeup on the road…the makeup part I’m still not an expert in it, but I would hope I’ve gotten better. I think I’ve gotten better! I guess the proof is in what the pictures tell, though…
On the Products She Always Packs: I cannot leave anywhere without my Fresh Rose Petal Lip Balm. I have it with me at all times; I even have backups. I also love the Burt’s Bees lip balms. It always goes a long way. I’m the person who buys all the products and then forgets to use any of them, so I like a good all-in-one—especially anything that combines an SPF lotion and makeup. Lune+Aster makes an awesome CC Cream that’s a tinted moisturizer and sunscreen. I pretty much use that as my foundation. Dior mascaras are a staple for me. Then, in line with the all-in-one thing, I love the Nivea lotion that that almond oil in it. It also gives a good sheen and shine.
On Her Before-Bedtime Routine: I get into bed and put the lotion on my feet and my arms—but only once I’m in bed. My husband always ask, “Can’t you do that in the bathroom?” And I’m like, “No, because then I have to put lotion my feet, and when I walk to the bed, now my feet aren’t as hydrated.” This is the secret to hydrated feet.
On Turning 40 Next Year: God. 40! I think I look good for my age, so I haven’t thought about it too much. A bunch of my girlfriends from high school are going on a 40th birthday trip, so I’m looking forward to turning 40, mainly because I get to go on a vacation. Someone told me a long time ago to drink more water and use more sunscreen, and I’m still trying to make up for lost time…luckily, there’s a lot of products out there that help reverse the signs of aging.
