Michelle Smallmon, co-host of ESPN Radio’s "Unsportsmanlike," shared insights into her career trajectory in a recent podcast, emphasizing the importance of embracing diverse roles and opportunities. Her approach, encapsulated by her mantra of saying yes to everything, played a crucial role in her progression from a local producer to a national morning-drive host.
"Some days I'll look around and I'm like, how is this my life," said Smallmon. "If I can do it, you can do it. They'll remember us for who we are."
During an interview on ESPN Radio 101.7's "TEAM TALK," Smallmon reflected on her unconventional media journey. She recalled early experiences such as running scripts and moving cables during remote broadcasts. "I have done everything in this industry," she said, highlighting the significance of these varied roles in preparing her for national radio. Smallmon also attributed her passion for sports to her upbringing near St. Louis and watching SportsCenter with her father, stating, "I just always loved sports because of him."
According to Legit.ng, Smallmon initially pursued a pre-med track at the University of Illinois but shifted focus after realizing that medicine was not her calling following a chemistry class. She transitioned to broadcast journalism, inspired by the university's strong sports culture, particularly during the Illini’s run to the national championship game in her freshman year. This experience ignited her passion for storytelling through sports.
After graduating in 2008 with a degree in broadcast journalism, Smallmon began working at KSDK in St. Louis as a producer and digital/social content creator. By 2009, she had moved to 101 ESPN in St. Louis, where she produced and appeared on several prominent shows over six years.
ESPN describes Smallmon as a "former ESPN radio producer with extensive experience on both the local and national level." Her return to the national platform in 2022 as host of its signature morning show "Unsportsmanlike," airing weekdays from 6–10 a.m. ET, underscores her versatility and value to the network.
Editor's note: This article includes excerpts from an interview conducted on "TEAM Talk" with Joe O'Neill, Adam Diehl, and Andres Chavez. "TEAM Talk" airs Monday through Friday between 4 p.m.-7 p.m. on ESPN Radio 101.7 TheTEAM. Listen live at https://www.1017theteam.com/ or via the app on iPhone and Android devices. To listen to the full interview with Michelle Smallmon, visit: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/6-26-25-michelle-smallmon-of-espn-radios/id1533691091?i=1000714857989
