Michelle Smallmon has become a well-respected name on ESPN Radio. She’s known for her lively way of hosting and her deep love for sports journalism. Born on August 13, 1986, in Belleville, Illinois, she’s made a mark with her impressive interviews. Stars like Yadier Molina and Bob Costas1 have shared their stories with her. Now at 37 years old, Michelle stands 5 feet 7 inches tall and weighs about 65 kg23. Her rise from local jobs in St. Louis to national fame on ESPN Radio shows her commitment and skill in sports talk.
Key Takeaways
- Michelle Smallmon was born on August 13, 1986, in Belleville, Illinois.
- She has made significant strides as a female broadcaster in a predominantly male industry.
- Her interviews with notable athletes such as Yadier Molina and Bob Costas have garnered much acclaim.
- Standing at 5 feet 7 inches and weighing 65 kg, she maintains a strong presence both on and off the air23.
- Currently, Michelle Smallmon is recognized as one of the Top 100 Most Influential Sports Journalists1.
Early Life of Michelle Smallmon
Michelle Smallmon began her journey to sports broadcasting fame early on. She was born on August 13, 1986, in Belleville, Illinois. From the start, she was on a path marked by determination and leadership4.
Birth Date and Place
Michelle spent her childhood in Belleville, Illinois, which laid the groundwork for her success4. Belleville’s tight-knit community greatly influenced her. Being from this lively city, Michelle developed a love for sports and community events early on.
Family Background
Her parents, Tony and Robin Smallmon, were her biggest fans. Their constant support and motivation were crucial. Thanks to them, Michelle pursued her dreams in the world of sports media. Her family’s backing was a key factor in her career path.
Early Interests in Sports
Michelle was surrounded by an atmosphere full of sports passion since childhood. She was actively involved in sports and followed events closely. This passion laid the groundwork for her career. Belleville provided many chances for her to dive into sports, shaping her future.
Michelle’s journey in sports broadcasting began with her love for sports, family support, and an active youth. These elements combined to prepare her for a successful career in sports broadcasting4.
Educational Background
Michelle Smallmon’s journey in education was marked by notable achievements and deep involvement in sports, paralleling her aspirations in broadcast journalism.
University of Illinois
Michelle Smallmon is a proud University of Illinois alumni. She pursued her passion for journalism at this prestigious institution. There, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in broadcast journalism5. Her university experience was not just about academics. It also deeply involved her in campus life, shaping her future career.
Degree in Broadcast Journalism
The broadcast journalism degree marked a significant milestone for Michelle Smallmon journalist. Her studies laid the groundwork needed to excel in journalism. At the University of Illinois, she gained important skills in reporting, anchoring, and producing6. These skills proved crucial in her later work.
Sports Involvement During Education
Michelle Smallmon’s time at university wasn’t only about classroom learning. She was also part of the women’s volleyball team, showing her dedication to sports6. Her involvement in sports complemented her academic work. It helped develop her love for sports. This balance prepared her for a career in sports media.
Michelle Smallmon’s university years were crucial. They combined academic success with athletic involvement. This mix played a key role in her growth as both a journalist and a sports enthusiast5.
Career Beginnings
Michelle Smallmon’s career journey is truly inspiring in the sports broadcasting world. She began at KSDK in St. Louis as a news production assistant. Her passion and hard work for media quickly became apparent.
Early Roles at KSDK
At KSDK, Michelle developed key skills in a fast-paced news setting. This opportunity was the start of her media career. It prepared her for future challenges.
Transition to 101 ESPN
Michelle brought her rich media experience from KSDK to 101 ESPN. At ESPN, she grew her skills further, co-hosting “Smallmon & Rammer” and “Karraker & Smallmon”7. This move was a key step in her career, helping her reach new heights in sports journalism and engage with more fans8.
Her career move from KSDK to 101 ESPN highlights her talent to excel in sports media5. You can learn more about Michelle Smallmon’s career. Her story is motivating for those dreaming of a sports journalism career. It proves that dedication and hard work lead to success.
Rise to Prominence
Michelle Smallmon’s path to being known in sports media shows her great achievements. At 101 ESPN, she made history as the first woman to have her show. This big step didn’t just highlight her skill. It also opened pathways for women aiming at sports media careers.
First Female Host at 101 ESPN
Being the first woman host on 101 ESPN was a major step for Smallmon. Her show became popular fast, attracting many listeners. She stood out for her unique take on sports, earning awards like the Gracie and sports Emmys. In 2021, she was named Sports Journalist of the Year910.
Notable Shows and Podcasts
Smallmon has led several shows on 101 ESPN, with “Karraker & Smallman” being very well-liked. This show mixes smart sports talk with engaging stories. It’s a hit with sports fans. Smallmon’s talent also shines in podcasts, where she shows more of her skills9.
She played a key role in covering big events like the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and the 2023 Women’s World Cup. Her detailed analysis received a lot of praise9. Smallmon’s career shows her hard work and expertise in sports broadcasting. For more on her impact, visit Michelle Smallmon Wikipedia – ESPN Radio Host.
Michelle Smallmon at ESPN Radio
Michelle Smallmon joined ESPN Radio, taking a big step into the national spotlight. She co-hosts a show with Evan Cohen and Chris Canty. Their show has a rating of 610 and gets both good and bad reviews from listeners11. This role has made her a well-known figure in sports media, where she shares deep sports insights.
Joining the National Platform
Michelle’s role at ESPN Radio grew her national broadcasting career. She has shown her skills across many platforms, making a mark in sports media12. Her deep knowledge in sports commentary makes her a key part of the network, influencing the sports broadcasting world.
Current Roles and Responsibilities
Michelle co-hosts a morning show on ESPN Radio with Evan Cohen and Chris Canty. The show gets mixed reviews. Some listeners enjoy the host’s chemistry, while others criticize Chris Canty’s and Evan Cohen’s sports knowledge11. Still, many see Michelle as capable and suitable for her role, showing the diverse opinions on the show11.
Michelle keeps making an impact through her work in national broadcasting. She offers important sports commentary and is seen as a respected sports media figure. Her recent return to ESPN Radio in 2024 shows her continued commitment and influence in the industry12.
Michelle Smallmon Wikipedia
Many fans and industry followers look up Michelle Smallmon’s Wikipedia for her bio and career info. As an ESPN Radio host, she is well known in sports broadcasting. Her net worth is between $1 million and $2 million134. Michelle was born on August 13, 1986. She is now 37 years old and stands 5 feet 7 inches tall134.
Michelle Smallmon makes around $100,000 yearly from ESPN Radio134. She began her career in St. Louis as a news production assistant at KSDK. Then, she moved to 101ESPN from 2015 to 2019 where she developed her skills4.
Her work caught the St. Louis Cardinals’ attention, making her a respected sports media voice6.
Michelle has also been the in-game presenter for the St. Louis XFL team, the Battlehawks4. She graduated with a degree in broadcast journalism from the University of Illinois. Despite facing challenges, her professionalism has kept her focused on quality content6.
Personal Life
Michelle Smallmon keeps her life private, despite the spotlight of being a well-known sports broadcaster. In her 30s, her career is impressive14. She is 5 feet 7 inches tall with an athletic build. This suits her lively personality well15
She graduated from the University of Illinois in 2008. Her major was broadcast journalism15. Michelle enjoys reading about sports heroes and hiking13. Also, her dad works in real estate15.
Privacy and Public Life Balance
Michelle Smallmon is great at keeping her life private while being a public figure. She’s not married, choosing to keep her love life off the radar13. Balancing her private and work life showcases her skill and resolve. These qualities have helped her thrive in sports broadcasting14.
Michelle is strong at keeping her personal and professional lives separate. She values privacy, working hard to preserve it. This lets her focus on her career while keeping her private life away from the public eye.
Notable Achievements and Recognition
Michelle Smallmon has made a big impact in sports broadcasting. She’s known for her hard work and skills. The industry has taken notice of her efforts.
Industry Acknowledgments
Michelle Smallmon has earned lots of praise and awards in sports media. She worked at 101 ESPN in St. Louis for many years, showing her dedication16. Going from local radio to ESPN Radio brought her more fame16. She co-hosted a popular show and helped with big sports programs, making her well-respected16.
Major Sporting Events Coverage
Michelle Smallmon is known for covering big sports events. Her knowledge and lively reports have taken her to events like the Super Bowl and NBA Finals. Fans love her views and commentary, raising her profile as a top sports journalist.
Starting off producing shows and hosting, Michelle got key experience16. Her family’s love for sports shaped her style, helping her succeed in covering events17. She keeps bringing new takes and fun content to fans17.
Additional Income Streams
Michelle Smallmon is widely recognized for her work at ESPN Radio. Beyond broadcasting, she’s successfully branched out. Her endorsements, media deals, and strategic income diversification have significantly boosted her financial well-being. This allows her to broaden her career ventures.
Endorsements and Sponsorships
Michelle has teamed up with brands that match her image and interests. These deals not only increase her visibility but also help in broadening her income sources. Brands seek out media figures like her for their influential power and trustworthiness. Her endorsement deals typically include promoting on social media, featuring in ads, and participating in brand events.
Public Appearances and Hosting
Michelle impresses not just on air but in live events too. She often makes public appearances and hosts events, adding to her earnings. Serving as an in-game host for the St. Louis Battlehawks showcases her adaptability and rapport with audiences. These activities not only supplement her income. They also enhance her connections through direct and engaging fan interactions. Furthermore, her work with ESPN Radio, alongside names like Evan Cohen and Chris Canty, shows how she mixes different media platforms to diversify her income streams18.
Michelle is keen on tapping into various revenue avenues, as seen through her career decisions. Her endorsements and strong media relationships have created a stable and diverse financial portfolio. For more about Michelle’s income diversity, click here18.
Michelle Smallmon’s Impact on Sports Media
Michelle Smallmon has changed sports broadcasting forever. She is a key figure for women wanting to enter this field. She went from local jobs to national fame, showing her incredible journey. She became the first female host at 101 ESPN in St. Louis and then moved to ESPN Radio in 202219. Her success proves she’s a pioneer for women in sports media.
Trailblazer for Women in Broadcasting
Smallmon leads by example, showing looks aren’t as important as skill and passion. People wonder about her height, between 5’4″ and 5’6″20. But, her height makes her more relatable, not less successful. Michelle shows that true journalistic excellence comes from hard work. She keeps making big waves in sports media.
Influence on Aspiring Journalists
Michelle Smallmon’s story is an inspiring one for new sports journalists. With over 13,000 Instagram followers and a role co-hosting a morning show on ESPN Radio19, she’s a role model. She actively uses social media to guide young journalists. Her influence goes beyond just being on the air. She mentors and inspires journalists everywhere, making a real difference in the sports media world.
