Michelle Smallmon is a name that’s become synonymous with top-tier sports broadcasting. Her climb from a small-town Illinois native to a key player at ESPN is a story of hard work and talent. Currently, she co-hosts ESPN Radio’s hallmark morning show, “Unsportsmanlike,” where her sharp insights and engaging style keep listeners tuning in daily.
She’s gone from being behind the scenes as an ESPN radio producer to becoming a standout on-air personality. Her ability to cover a wide range of sports with depth and enthusiasm has made her a fan favorite.
Michelle Smallmon has made a significant impact at ESPN as a versatile sportscaster, proving that passion and skill can take you far in the competitive world of sports journalism.
Who is Michelle Smallmon?
Michelle Smallmon was born on August 13, 1986, in the charming town of Belleville, Illinois. From her earliest days, she exhibited an unbridled passion for sports that would ultimately shape her future career. Growing up in a family that cherished athletics, Michelle’s love for the game was nurtured by her parents, Tony Smallmon and Robin Smallmon.
Michelle Smallmon’s Bio/Wiki
| Full Name | Michelle Smallmon |
| Date of Birth | August 13, 1986 |
| Age | 38 years old (as of 2024) |
| Place of Birth | Belleville, Illinois, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Multicultural |
| Education | University of Illinois (Degree in Broadcast Journalism) |
| Current Profession | Sports Broadcaster, Radio Host |
| Current Employer | ESPN Radio |
| Notable Previous Employer | 101ESPN (St. Louis) |
| Years Active in Broadcasting | 2006 – Present |
| Specializations | Football, Basketball, Soccer, Baseball |
| Podcasts | Co-host of “Soccer Talks” |
| Estimated Net Worth | $1-2 million (as of 2024) |
| Relationship Status | Not publicly disclosed |
| Parents | Tony Smallmon (Father), Robin Smallmon (Mother) |
| Charitable Involvements | Active in various St. Louis community initiatives (specific organizations not publicly disclosed) |
| Notable Skills | Public Speaking, Sports Analysis, News Production |
| Fun Fact | First woman to have a show named after her at 101ESPN |
| @msmallmon |
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A Childhood Steeped in Sports
- Attended local sporting events with family
- Played multiple sports in school
- Developed a keen eye for game analysis
Michelle’s formative years were marked by an insatiable curiosity about the world of sports. Whether she was cheering for the St. Louis Cardinals at Busch Stadium or dissecting football plays with her father in their living room, she was always immersed in the athletic realm.
Educational Journey
Michelle’s academic path led her to the University of Illinois, where she honed her skills in communication and broadcasting. Her time at the university was characterized by:
- Active participation in campus radio
- Internships with local sports networks
- Leadership roles in student-run media organizations
It was during these college years that Michelle’s dream of becoming a sports broadcaster began to take shape, setting the stage for her future success.
Michelle Smallmon’s Physical Attributes
While Michelle’s talent and expertise are the cornerstones of her career, her physical presence also contributes to her on-air charisma. Here’s a breakdown of Michelle’s physical attributes:
| Attribute | Details |
| Height | 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm) |
| Weight | 140 lbs (63.5 kg) |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Body Measurements | 42-32-38 inches |
| Shoe Size | 10 (US) |
Michelle Smallmon stands at a height of 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm), complementing her athletic build. Her body measurements are reported to be 42-32-38 inches, contributing to her confident on-air presence.
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Professional Career Journey
The transition from promising student to prominent sports broadcaster wasn’t just a career move for Michelle Smallmon – it was a transformation that would reshape the industry. Her journey from local radio to national stardom is a testament to her talent, perseverance, and passion for sports.
Early Career Steps
Michelle’s career in broadcasting began shortly after she graduated from the University of Illinois. Her journey unfolded as follows:
- Internship at local St. Louis radio station (2006):
Fresh out of college, Michelle secured an internship at a local St. Louis radio station. This opportunity allowed her to get her foot in the door of the broadcasting world. During this time, she honed her skills in audio production, learned the ropes of live broadcasting, and began to build her professional network. - News production assistant at a regional network (2007-2008):
Following her internship, Michelle landed a position as a news production assistant at a regional network. This role expanded her skill set beyond sports, giving her valuable experience in general news production. She worked behind the scenes, assisting with script writing, coordinating live feeds, and managing the fast-paced environment of a newsroom. - Weekend show host at 101ESPN (2009-2015):
In 2009, Michelle’s career took a significant turn when she joined 101ESPN, a prominent sports radio station in St. Louis. Starting as a weekend show host, she quickly made a name for herself with her in-depth sports knowledge and engaging on-air presence. Over the next six years, she would become one of the station’s most recognizable voices.
Breakthrough Moments
As Michelle’s career progressed, she achieved several notable milestones:
- The first woman to have a show named after her at 101ESPN (2013):
In a groundbreaking moment for both Michelle and the station, 101ESPN named a show after her in 2013. This achievement not only recognized Michelle’s talent and popularity but also marked a significant step forward for women in sports broadcasting. - Host of New Year’s Eve celebrations at Ballpark Village (2014-2019):
Michelle’s growing popularity in St. Louis led to her being chosen as the host for the New Year’s Eve celebrations at Ballpark Village, an entertainment district next to Busch Stadium. For six consecutive years, she rang in the new year with thousands of St. Louis sports fans, further cementing her status as a beloved local personality. - Voice of the St. Louis Battlehawks (XFL football team, 2020):
When the XFL launched its revival in 2020, Michelle was selected as the voice of the St. Louis Battlehawks. This role allowed her to showcase her football knowledge and play-by-play skills on a national stage, even if the season was cut short due to the global pandemic.
The ESPN Era
In 2022, Michelle’s career reached new heights when she joined the ESPN Radio morning show. This move to a national platform was the culmination of years of hard work and dedication to her craft.
At ESPN, Michelle has been able to showcase her expertise in a wide range of sports, including:
- College basketball: From March Madness to regular season games, Michelle provides in-depth analysis and commentary on the collegiate basketball scene.
- MLS soccer: As soccer continues to grow in popularity in the United States, Michelle’s knowledge of the sport has made her a go-to voice for MLS coverage.
- NFL football: Building on her experience with the Battlehawks, Michelle offers insightful commentary on professional football.
“Joining ESPN was a dream come true. It’s given me the opportunity to connect with sports fans across the country and share my passion for the games we all love.” – Michelle Smallmon
This quote encapsulates Michelle’s enthusiasm for her role at ESPN and her commitment to connecting with sports fans nationwide.
A Multi-Sport Maven
Michelle Smallmon’s versatility as a sports broadcaster is one of her most distinguishing characteristics. Her ability to provide expert commentary across a wide range of sports has made her an invaluable asset to ESPN and a favorite among sports enthusiasts nationwide.
Football
Michelle’s expertise in football covers both the professional and collegiate levels:
- NFL: She offers in-depth analysis of game strategies, player performances, and league-wide trends. Her coverage includes pre-game predictions, live-game commentary, and post-game analysis.
- College Football: Michelle’s knowledge extends to the collegiate level, where she covers major conferences, bowl games, and the intricate world of college football rankings and recruitment.
Basketball
In the world of basketball, Michelle’s coverage is equally comprehensive:
- NBA: From regular season games to playoff battles, Michelle provides insightful commentary on professional basketball. Her analysis often includes player statistics, team dynamics, and league developments.
- March Madness: Michelle’s coverage of the NCAA basketball tournament is particularly noteworthy. She guides fans through the excitement of bracket predictions, Cinderella stories, and championship games.
Soccer
As soccer’s popularity continues to grow in the United States, Michelle has positioned herself as a knowledgeable voice in the sport:
- MLS: Her coverage of Major League Soccer includes team analysis, player spotlights, and discussions on the league’s growth and development.
- International Tournaments: Michelle’s soccer expertise extends to major international events like the World Cup and European Championships, providing American fans with context and insight into global soccer.
Baseball
Despite baseball not being her primary focus at ESPN, Michelle’s knowledge of America’s pastime is still impressive:
- MLB: She offers seasonal coverage of Major League Baseball, including pennant races, playoff series, and World Series matchups.
- College Baseball: Michelle also touches on significant events in collegiate baseball, particularly during the College World Series.
What sets Michelle apart in her multi-sport coverage is her ability to provide both broad overviews and nuanced insights. She can seamlessly transition from discussing a quarterback’s passing efficiency to analyzing a point guard’s court vision, or from explaining soccer’s offside rule to breaking down a baseball team’s bullpen strategy.
Her engaging commentary style, coupled with her vast knowledge base, has made her a favorite among sports enthusiasts nationwide. Whether she’s hosting a morning show, providing live game updates, or participating in panel discussions, Michelle Smallmon’s multi-sport expertise shines through, enriching the sports media landscape with her unique perspective and infectious enthusiasm for all things athletics.
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Beyond Broadcasting
Michelle’s influence extends beyond traditional broadcasting. She has embraced various media formats to connect with her audience:
Podcasting Ventures
- Co-host of “Soccer Talks” podcast
- Regular guest on popular sports podcasts
- Exploring new podcast concepts focused on women in sports
Public Speaking and Community Involvement
- Keynote speaker at sports industry events
- Host of USBWA dinners
- Active in volunteering initiatives in St. Louis
- Mentoring aspiring broadcasters at local universities
Achievements and Recognition
Michelle’s career is adorned with numerous awards and recognitions, including:
- Best Sports Personality (St. Louis Magazine, 2018)
- Rising Star in Sports Media (Broadcasting & Cable, 2020)
- Innovator in Sports Radio (Radio Ink, 2021)
- Excellence in Sports Broadcasting (National Sports Media Association, 2023)
These accolades underscore Michelle’s impact on the industry and her role in paving the way for women in sports media.
Michelle Smallmon’s net worth and Salary
While exact figures are not publicly disclosed, industry insiders estimate Michelle Smallmon’s net worth to be between $1-2 million as of 2024. This includes:
- Salary from ESPN Contract (estimated $300,000-$500,000 annually)
- Income from speaking engagements
- Earnings from podcast appearances
- Endorsement deals with sports-related brands
Future Prospects
As Michelle continues to solidify her position in the sports broadcasting world, her future looks incredibly bright. Potential avenues for growth include:
- Expanding her podcast network
- Authoring books on sports and media
- Developing a sports-themed documentary series
Comparison with Peers
In a competitive industry, Michelle distinguishes herself through:
- Her multisport expertise
- Engaging on-air personality
- Strong social media presence
- Commitment to mentoring aspiring broadcasters
- Ability to blend humor with insightful analysis
Michelle Smallmon on Social Media
Michelle’s connection with her audience extends beyond the airwaves:
| Platform | Handle | Followers |
| @msmallmon | 29.8K+ | |
| @MichelleSmallm3 | 34.7K+ |
She regularly interacts with fans, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of her work and personal life. Her social media presence is characterized by:
- Live Q&A sessions during major sporting events
- Sharing personal anecdotes and sports memories
- Highlighting up-and-coming athletes and broadcasters
- Engaging in playful banter with fellow sports personalities
Work-Life Balance
Despite her demanding career, Michelle prioritizes a well-rounded life:
Hobbies and Interests
- Cooking: Experimenting with new recipes, particularly fusion cuisine
- Outdoor activities: Hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking
- Reading: Particularly adventure stories and sports biographies
- Video games: Skilled player in sports simulations and strategy games
- Stargazing: Amateur astronomy enthusiast with her telescope
Personal Philosophy
Michelle’s approach to life is characterized by:
- Continuous learning and growth
- Balancing ambition with kindness
- Embracing challenges as opportunities
- Promoting diversity and inclusion in sports media
Cultural Background and Identity
Michelle’s multicultural background has played a significant role in shaping her worldview and approach to sports broadcasting. While specific details about her ethnicity are not publicly disclosed, she has spoken about the importance of diversity in media:
“I’m proud of my diverse heritage. It’s given me a unique perspective on sports and life in general. I believe that diversity in broadcasting leads to richer, more inclusive coverage of the games we love.”
This melting pot of cultural influences has contributed to Michelle’s ability to connect with a wide range of audiences and athletes from various backgrounds.
Smallmon’s Spouse and Relationships
Michelle has managed to keep her personal life relatively private, despite her public persona. As of 2024, her relationship status is not publicly known. She has expressed in interviews that while she’s open to love, her focus remains on her career and personal growth.
Interesting Facts and Tidbits
To give you a more rounded picture of Michelle Smallmon, here are some fun facts:
- Favorite ice cream flavor: Chocolate
- Dream vacation spot: Watching a soccer match at Wembley Stadium in London
- Hidden talent: Impressive video game skills, particularly in FIFA and Madden NFL
- Childhood hero: Jackie Robinson
- Favorite book genre: Historical fiction with sports themes
- Most memorable broadcast: Calling the final game of the St. Louis Battlehawks’ inaugural season
Impact on Women in Sports Broadcasting
Michelle’s success has had a ripple effect on the industry, inspiring a new generation of female sports broadcasters. Her achievements include:
- Mentoring young women interested in sports media careers
- Advocating for equal opportunities in broadcasting
- Participating in panels and workshops focused on diversity in sports journalism
- Collaborating with organizations that promote women’s involvement in sports
Michelle’s Vision
As she continues to make her mark in the industry, Michelle has shared her thoughts on the future of sports broadcasting:
- Increased integration of social media and interactive elements in live broadcasts
- More diverse representation both in front of and behind the microphone
- Greater focus on storytelling and human interest angles in sports coverage
- Expansion of e-sports coverage and analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does Michelle Smallmon’s show air on ESPN Radio?
Michelle co-hosts the morning show from 6 AM to 10 AM ET, Monday through Friday.
Is Michelle Smallmon married?
As of 2024, Michelle Smallmon’s relationship status is not publicly disclosed. She prefers to keep her personal life private.
What is Michelle Smallmon’s estimated net worth for 2024?
Industry estimates place Michelle Smallmon’s net worth between $1-2 million as of 2024.
Conclusion
Michelle Smallmon’s journey from a sports-loving kid in Belleville, Illinois, to a nationally recognized sports broadcaster is a testament to her passion, skill, and determination. Her impact on the industry goes beyond her on-air presence; she’s a role model for aspiring broadcasters, particularly women in sports media.
As she continues to grace the airwaves with her insightful commentary and engaging personality, Michelle Smallmon remains a beloved figure in the world of sports broadcasting. Her story is far from over, and sports fans across the nation eagerly anticipate the next chapter in her illustrious career.
Whether she’s breaking down a crucial play, interviewing a sports legend, or sharing a laugh with her co-hosts, Michelle Smallmon embodies the spirit of sports journalism at its finest. Her journey reminds us that with passion, perseverance, and a touch of Midwestern charm, dreams of sports broadcasting stardom can indeed come true.
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Aria Jane is an experienced blogger and the creative voice behind Star Captions. With a passion for celebrity culture and entertainment, Aria brings her readers engaging and insightful profiles of today’s biggest stars. Her dedication to delivering accurate and up-to-date content has made her a trusted source in celebrity blogging.
