Michelle Smallmon is a renowned American radio broadcaster and producer, widely recognized for her role as co-host of ESPN Radio’s morning show, “Unsportsmanlike.” With a career that spans both local and national broadcasting, Michelle has made her mark in the sports media industry.
Prior to joining ESPN Radio in 2022, she gained recognition as the host of the popular “Karraker & Smallmon” show on 101 ESPN in St. Louis. Her extensive experience includes producing for ESPN Radio’s national shows and contributing to various live events.
With a strong passion for sports and journalism, Michelle’s career continues to thrive, solidifying her position as a key figure in sports broadcasting.
Profile Summary
| Category | Details |
| Name | Michelle Smallmon |
| Date of Birth | August 13, 1986 |
| Education | University of Illinois, Broadcast Journalism |
| Current Role | Co-host, ESPN Radio’s “Unsportsmanlike” (6-10 a.m. ET) |
| Previous Roles | Host of “Karraker & Smallmon” on 101 ESPN, Producer for ESPN Radio (Ryen Russillo, Danny Kanell) |
| Notable Achievements | First woman on 101 ESPN show, In-game host for Battlehawks, Event host (Ballpark Village NYE) |
| Charity Work | Board member of The Little Bit Foundation, St. Louis Zoo Young Professionals |
| Personal Life | Keeps personal life private |
| Strengths | Sports knowledge, on-air presence, community involvement |
| Career Goals | Expanding into podcasting, television, live events |
Early Life of Michelle Smallmon
Michelle Smallmon was born on August 13, 1986, in Belleville, Illinois, where she was raised in a family passionate about sports. Her father, Tony Smallmon, introduced her to sports at a young age, and they bonded over countless baseball games.
Growing up in this environment, Michelle developed a love for sports, particularly baseball and basketball. This early exposure fueled her desire to pursue a career in sports media.
Determined to make a name for herself, she set her sights on broadcast journalism, a path that would eventually lead her to becoming a well-known voice in the industry.
Michelle Education and College Years
Michelle attended the University of Illinois, where she pursued a degree in broadcast journalism. During her college years, she not only excelled academically but also participated in extracurricular activities like sports broadcasting.
She became actively involved in her college’s student-run TV station, gaining valuable experience in producing and hosting. Michelle’s time in college played a pivotal role in shaping her career path, equipping her with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of sports media.
Her passion for broadcasting grew during these years, setting the stage for her professional journey after graduation.
Michelle Early Career in Sports Media
Michelle’s journey into sports media began as a news production assistant at KSDK, a local news station in St. Louis. Although she started behind the scenes, her talent quickly became apparent.
She moved on to ESPN Radio in 2009, where she transitioned from producing shows to becoming an on-air contributor. Her role in producing shows for big names like Ryen Russillo and Danny Kanell helped her refine her skills and build a reputation in the industry.
Michelle’s early career provided her with valuable experience, which paved the way for her eventual rise to more prominent roles in sports broadcasting.
Rise to Fame at 101 ESPN
In 2010, Michelle took a significant step forward by joining 101 ESPN in St. Louis. She co-hosted the popular morning show, Karraker & Smallmon, which made her the first woman to have her name on a show at the station.
Her innovative approach to sports commentary, combined with her charisma, made her an immediate hit with listeners.
Michelle’s success on 101 ESPN solidified her status as a rising star in sports media. Her ability to connect with the audience and her deep understanding of sports made her a standout figure in a traditionally male-dominated field.
The Bernie Miklasz Connection
One of the most significant milestones in Michelle’s career came when she teamed up with Bernie Miklasz at 101 ESPN. Bernie, a respected veteran in sports media, gave Michelle her first full-time job in radio.
Their partnership was an instant success, blending Bernie’s experience with Michelle’s fresh perspective. Bernie recognized Michelle’s talent early on, choosing her despite the presence of more experienced candidates.
Their dynamic chemistry made the morning show a favorite among listeners, and together, they became a dominant duo in St. Louis sports radio, setting the stage for Michelle’s future growth in the industry.
Michelle Smallmon National ESPN Career
In 2017, Michelle took her career to the next level by joining ESPN’s national network. She worked as a producer for major shows like Ryen Russillo, Danny Kanell, and Will Cain, gaining invaluable experience in national broadcasting.
Her time at ESPN allowed her to refine her craft while working with some of the most prominent names in sports media.
After several years behind the scenes, Michelle returned to 101 ESPN with newfound skills, marking a full-circle moment in her career. Her national experience further elevated her credibility, leading to her current role as co-host of ESPN Radio’s morning show.
Success on the ESPN Radio Morning Show
Today, Michelle serves as a co-host on ESPN Radio’s morning show, “Unsportsmanlike,” airing from 6 to 10 a.m. ET. The show has gained a massive following, thanks to Michelle’s engaging and insightful commentary.
Her deep knowledge of sports, combined with her relatable and engaging personality, has made her a favorite among listeners.
As a co-host, Michelle brings a fresh perspective to the table, providing unique insights into the world of sports. Her role on “Unsportsmanlike” has solidified her position as one of the leading female voices in sports broadcasting.
St. Louis and the XFL In-Game Hosting Experience
Beyond radio, Michelle has expanded her career into live sports hosting. As the in-game host for the St. Louis Battlehawks of the XFL, Michelle was responsible for energizing the crowd and keeping fans engaged during games.
This role allowed her to showcase her ability to connect with audiences in a live, high-energy setting. Her experience with the XFL further broadened her skill set, making her a versatile personality in the sports media industry.
Michelle’s ability to work in various formats has helped her become one of the most well-rounded hosts in the business.
Michelle Smallmon Charitable Work
Michelle’s commitment to her community is just as strong as her career achievements. She’s been actively involved in several charitable organizations, including The Little Bit Foundation and The Young Professionals for the St. Louis Zoo.
The Little Bit Foundation focuses on breaking down barriers to learning for underprivileged children, while Michelle’s involvement with the zoo promotes education and wildlife conservation.
Her philanthropic work shows her dedication to giving back and making a positive impact on her community. Michelle’s charitable efforts highlight her well-rounded character and the value she places on social responsibility.
Awards and Recognition in Sports Media
Throughout her career, Michelle has received numerous accolades for her work in sports media. From her contributions at 101 ESPN to her work with ESPN’s national network, Michelle’s expertise has been widely recognized.
She has earned praise for her insightful commentary, strong work ethic, and ability to engage audiences. Michelle’s recognition within the industry not only reflects her skills but also her perseverance in a highly competitive field.
As a trailblazer for women in sports radio, she has set a high standard for future generations, inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.
Michelle Smallmon Personal Life
While Michelle is a prominent figure in the public eye, she remains private about her personal life. She has chosen to keep details about her family and relationships out of the spotlight, focusing instead on her career.
This approach allows her to maintain a healthy balance between her professional and personal life. By keeping her private matters away from public attention, Michelle has managed to build a strong, respected career without sacrificing her privacy.
This thoughtful approach to fame has helped her maintain a grounded and authentic presence in the media.
The Future of Michelle Smallmon
Looking to the future, Michelle Smallmon’s career shows no signs of slowing down. She has already achieved significant success in sports media, and her career trajectory is poised for even more growth.
As a key figure in ESPN’s morning radio show, Michelle has the potential to expand into new areas such as podcasting, television, or hosting major live sports events.
Her versatility and passion for broadcasting will likely lead her to new opportunities. The future looks bright for Michelle, and her influence in the sports media industry will continue to grow.
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Conclusion
Michelle Smallmon’s journey from a producer to a co-host on ESPN Radio’s morning show is a testament to her hard work and dedication. She has broken barriers as one of the leading women in sports media, inspiring countless others to pursue careers in broadcasting.
Her success in both local and national sports radio shows the power of persistence, talent, and passion. Michelle’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to influence the sports media landscape for years to come, as she leaves an indelible mark on the industry.
FAQs
What happened to Michelle Smallmon?
Michelle returned to ESPN Radio in 2022 as co-host of “Unsportsmanlike.”
Who did Michelle Smallmon pick?
There’s no public information on who Michelle picked.
Who hosts Unsportsmanlike?
Michelle Smallmon co-hosts “Unsportsmanlike” with Chris Canty and Evan Cohen.
Is Michelle still engaged?
There’s no confirmation on whether Michelle is engaged.
Why did Michelle lose her memory?
There is no credible information suggesting Michelle lost her memory.
