Jennifer Hudson graces Good Housekeeping’s February cover, on newsstands now, and in the interview, the singer, actress, and now author, reveals the secrets to her 80-pound weight loss, talks about how her family got her through her toughest moments, and opens up about her fiancé and son.

The svelte starlet, who has become a staple on the red carpet attended an intimate cocktail reception held in her honor at the Hearst Tower in New York City.  Seeing her in person, you could see the dramatic change in Jennifer and how elated she’s become.  She loves shopping, with her obsession being shoes.  At 5’10, she’s already a Glamazon but her vertiginous Guiseppe Zinotti peep-toe wedges took her to new heights.  I had the pleasure of interviewing her on the red carpet and later chatting with her in person during the reception.  She’s now become an even bigger inspiration for my own personal health goals in 2012.  SIDE NOTE: How fabulous is the mustard colored Roland Mouret frock Jennifer is wearing? The back had cascading ruffles.

Below is a video of my interview with Jennifer Hudson:

Jennifer’s interview in Good Housekeeping is definitely worth the read.  Her story is inspirational and the series of photos of her struggle with weight loss over the years will give you the kick you need to jump start your weight loss journey.  Below are excerpts from her interview:

On her former size: “Early on, I remember one of the musical directors telling me that everything about me was too big,” she says. “My voice, my size, and my personality.” Defiant, Hudson asked her, “Isn’t that what being a star is? Stars are larger than life!”

On her son, David: “What’s funny is that he’s never known me overweight. If he sees a clip of the old Jennifer from Dreamgirls, he doesn’t know who it is.”

On cravings: “I’ll find a calm, peaceful moment, and I’ll sit back and eat my chocolate, which I make sure is really good quality, too,” she says. “Quality over quantity!”

On her fiance, David Otunga, and his Valentine’s Day rituals: “Let me tell you, this man goes bananas,” Hudson declares. “When I wake up that morning in February, I can’t see through the house because he’s got confetti and balloons everywhere, rose petals on the floor, and candles in every single room.”