Introduction
Michelle Smallmon is a well-known name in the sports broadcasting industry, particularly among ESPN Radio listeners. As a talented and insightful sports journalist, she has carved out a significant place in the media world, becoming a respected voice in sports commentary. With many fans eager to learn more about her personal and professional life, one of the most frequently asked questions is: “What is Michelle Smallmon’s age?”
Born on August 13, 1986, in Belleville, Illinois, Michelle Smallmon is currently 38 years old as of February 2025. However, her age is just one aspect of her intriguing journey. In this article, we delve into her early life, education, career milestones, and personal life, offering a comprehensive look at the woman behind the microphone.
Early Life and Education
Growing Up in Belleville, Illinois
Michelle Smallmon was born and raised in Belleville, Illinois, a city located in the Metro East region of St. Louis. From a young age, she exhibited a strong passion for sports, a trait likely influenced by her family and the rich sports culture surrounding her.
Her parents, Tony and Robin Smallmon, played an integral role in her development, encouraging her to pursue her dreams. Though Michelle keeps her personal life private, she has occasionally shared heartfelt moments about her close-knit family.
Academic Pursuits and University Experience
For her higher education, Michelle attended the University of Illinois, where she majored in broadcast journalism. During her time in college, she was actively involved in sports, even playing for the university’s women’s volleyball team. Her hands-on experience with sports, both as a player and a journalist, gave her unique insights that would later contribute to her success in sports media.
Career Journey: From Local Radio to ESPN Stardom
Early Career in St. Louis
Michelle Smallmon’s professional journey began in St. Louis, Missouri, where she took on the role of a production assistant at KSDK-TV. This position allowed her to gain valuable experience in journalism, production, and sports reporting.
Her big break came in 2009, when she joined 101 ESPN St. Louis, initially working behind the scenes before transitioning into an on-air role. At 101 ESPN, she co-hosted multiple shows, and her talent quickly became evident to listeners and colleagues alike.
One of her most notable achievements was co-hosting “Karraker & Smallmon”, a morning sports talk show alongside Randy Karraker. Her presence on this show was historic, as she became the first woman to have her name included in a show title at the station.
Transition to ESPN Radio
With a growing reputation, it was only a matter of time before Smallmon caught the attention of major sports networks. In 2022, she joined ESPN Radio as a co-host of “Unsportsmanlike,” a popular morning show that airs from 6-10 a.m. ET. The program, which she co-hosts with Evan Cohen and Chris Canty, delivers engaging sports discussions, expert analysis, and entertaining segments, making it a hit among sports fans.
Her ability to provide insightful commentary, engage with listeners, and navigate complex sports topics has made her one of the standout voices in modern sports radio.
Michelle Smallmon’s Broadcasting Style and Influence
Authenticity and Expertise
One of the reasons Michelle Smallmon has garnered such a dedicated following is her authenticity. Unlike many sports commentators who focus purely on analytics, Smallmon brings a balanced approach—blending her deep sports knowledge with engaging storytelling.
A Trailblazer for Women in Sports Media
As a female voice in a male-dominated industry, Smallmon has served as an inspiration to many aspiring female sports journalists. Her success at 101 ESPN and ESPN Radio highlights her ability to break barriers and thrive in competitive environments.
Engaging Social Media Presence
Michelle is also active on social media, where she interacts with fans, shares behind-the-scenes moments, and provides additional sports insights. While she maintains a professional image, her relatable and down-to-earth personality makes her a favorite among listeners.
Personal Life: Is Michelle Smallmon Married?
Despite her prominence in the media, Michelle Smallmon has maintained a relatively private personal life. As of now, there is no verified information regarding her marital status or relationships.
What is clear, however, is that she remains deeply connected to her family. She often speaks fondly about her parents and the support they have given her throughout her career.
Net Worth and Achievements
Salary and Earnings
While exact figures regarding Michelle Smallmon’s salary are not publicly available, experienced sports radio hosts at ESPN typically earn anywhere between $100,000 to $500,000 per year. Considering her extensive career and rising influence, it is estimated that her net worth falls within the range of $1 million to $2 million.
Career Milestones
Some of Michelle Smallmon’s biggest career highlights include:
- Co-hosting “Karraker & Smallmon” on 101 ESPN, becoming the first woman to have her name on a show at the station.
- Joining ESPN Radio as a co-host of “Unsportsmanlike” in 2022.
- Building a strong brand as a respected sports commentator and journalist.
The Future of Michelle Smallmon’s Career
Given her trajectory, it is likely that Michelle Smallmon’s influence in the sports media industry will only continue to grow. Whether she continues with ESPN Radio, expands into television, or even starts her own podcast, her future looks incredibly promising.
With the rise of digital media and podcasting, she could also venture into creating her own independent sports media platform, further solidifying her role as a top sports broadcaster.
Conclusion
Michelle Smallmon has carved out an impressive career in sports media, from her early days in St. Louis to becoming a national voice on ESPN Radio. At 38 years old, she continues to make waves in the industry, inspiring countless young journalists along the way.
Her journey is a testament to hard work, dedication, and a true passion for sports journalism. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just learning about her, Michelle Smallmon’s story is one of perseverance and success.
