Michelle Smallmon journey in the world of sports media is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and breaking barriers. As an influential voice on ESPN’s “Unsportsmanlike” show, she has emerged as a respected personality in a field traditionally dominated by men. While she may not be a household name in the traditional sense, Michelle’s story resonates with many aspiring journalists, particularly women looking to make their mark in broadcasting.
Early Life and Education
Born on August 13, 1986, in Belleville, Illinois, Michelle Smallmon was raised in a household where sports were a significant part of her upbringing. Growing up in Illinois, a state with a rich sports culture, Michelle naturally developed a love for the game early on. Her exposure to sports fandom and the athletic environment would go on to shape her career aspirations in a way few could predict.
After completing high school, Michelle attended the University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign, where she pursued a degree in Broadcast Journalism. This educational foundation proved essential as she learned the craft of storytelling, media production, and the fundamentals of becoming a communicator in the world of sports broadcasting.
During her college years, Michelle was also involved in athletics, particularly women’s volleyball, giving her firsthand insight into the competitive nature of sports from the perspective of both the athlete and the spectator. This experience enriched her understanding of sports and helped her connect better with her audience, whether on the airwaves or in front of a crowd.
Michelle Smallmon Career Beginnings: The St. Louis Radio Scene
Michelle’s career in broadcasting began on a more localized scale. She started her professional journey in St. Louis, working for 101 ESPN, a station where she would later make significant strides. Initially, Michelle worked behind the scenes, gaining invaluable experience in production, learning how radio operations worked, and developing her skills in the media industry.
In 2015, Michelle began to transition from behind-the-scenes roles to on-air talent. She became co-host of Karraker & Smallmon, a radio show that made history by featuring Michelle as the first woman with her name on an ESPN radio program in St. Louis. This milestone marked a significant achievement not only for her career but also for the station, highlighting her ability to break through barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field. She gained a following for her quick wit, relatable personality, and knowledge of sports, setting the stage for her next big leap.
Rising to National Fame: ESPN and “Unsportsmanlike”
Michelle’s career trajectory took a monumental turn in 2022 when she joined ESPN Radio as a co-host for “Unsportsmanlike,” a highly popular morning show. The show, which airs weekdays from 6 to 10 a.m. ET, covers a broad range of sports topics from NFL analysis to trending sports news, and it has become a staple of ESPN’s daily lineup. Alongside co-hosts Evan Cohen and Chris Canty, Michelle quickly became a fan favorite for her honest commentary, sharp analysis, and ability to make complex sports topics accessible to a wide audience.
As one of the few women in sports radio to hold such a prominent role, Michelle has become an advocate for gender diversity in broadcasting. Her rise in the industry is an example of how women can not only participate but also lead in spaces where they were once underrepresented. Michelle’s presence on ESPN Radio represents a broader shift toward inclusion, as more women gain the opportunity to express their views and contribute meaningfully to the sports conversation.
Michelle Smallmon Professional Style and Public Persona
What sets Michelle apart in the crowded world of sports media is her authenticity and relatability. Her background as a fan, athlete, and journalist gives her a unique perspective that resonates with listeners. Unlike some broadcasters who focus solely on analysis, Michelle brings an element of human connection to her commentary. She is able to discuss the nuances of sports while remaining down-to-earth, offering listeners a chance to engage with her on a personal level.
Her ability to combine humor with insightful commentary has made her a popular figure among listeners. Michelle has the rare ability to tackle tough sports issues while making them engaging and understandable for fans of all knowledge levels. This balance has made her not just a respected journalist but also a role model for young women aspiring to enter sports media.
Despite her growing fame, Michelle maintains a level of privacy in her personal life, avoiding the pitfalls of oversharing that often come with fame. While she shares glimpses of her professional life and commentary on various platforms, she remains largely out of the public eye when it comes to her personal affairs. This distinction sets her apart from many of her peers, allowing her to maintain a sense of normalcy despite her rising profile.
Impact and Influence in the Industry
Michelle’s influence extends far beyond her daily show. As a female broadcaster in the male-dominated world of sports radio, she has inspired many young women to pursue careers in media. Her success on ESPN Radio represents the breaking of glass ceilings and challenges the outdated stereotypes that often confine women to specific roles in broadcasting.
Her achievements also serve as a reminder of the importance of diversity in sports media. As more women are given platforms to express their thoughts on sports, the overall quality and richness of sports commentary have improved, making the dialogue more inclusive and comprehensive. Michelle’s rise in the ranks shows how representation matters, and her career continues to open doors for future generations of women who want to carve out their space in the sports world.
Personal Life: Family and Relationships
While Michelle is known for her professional accomplishments, she has kept her personal life relatively private. There are no public records or reliable sources confirming a spouse, partner, or children, which suggests that she values her privacy. Her decision to keep personal matters out of the public sphere allows her to maintain a level of separation between her professional life and personal identity, focusing on the work that matters most to her career and listeners.
What’s Next for Michelle Smallmon?
As of 2025, Michelle’s career continues to grow. Her role as a co-host on “Unsportsmanlike” has solidified her as a prominent voice in sports media, and her future in broadcasting looks bright. With a strong social media presence and a growing fan base, she is poised to take on even more responsibilities within ESPN and possibly branch into new areas of sports media, such as television or digital content creation.
Michelle’s journey has been an inspiring one, as she has risen from a local radio station in St. Louis to the national stage. Her ability to connect with audiences, break barriers, and maintain her authenticity is a testament to her character and her professionalism. As the sports world continues to evolve, Michelle Smallmon is sure to remain at the forefront of sports media.
Conclusion
Michelle Smallmon’s story is one of determination, passion, and a relentless commitment to breaking down barriers in the sports media industry. From her roots in Belleville, Illinois, to her national platform on ESPN Radio, Michelle has proven that hard work, authenticity, and a love for sports can propel someone to great heights. Her career serves as an inspiration to many — particularly young women — who aspire to make their mark in the world of sports broadcasting.
Whether she’s hosting “Unsportsmanlike” or working behind the scenes, Michelle Smallmon has carved out a place for herself in the sports media world. She continues to inspire audiences with her insightful commentary, approachable demeanor, and unwavering dedication to her craft. Michelle’s future in the industry is bright, and we can expect her to remain a key figure in sports journalism for years to come.