Michelle Smallmon is a well-established figure in the world of sports broadcasting, known for her engaging commentary and insightful analysis. As a prominent host on ESPN Radio’s morning show Unsportsmanlike, Smallmon has made a name for herself in the competitive field of sports media. Her journey, from local radio stations to national prominence, is a testament to her dedication and passion for sports journalism. In this article, we will explore her background, career, personal life, and influence in the world of sports media.
Michelle Smallmon Early Life and Education
Michelle Smallmon was born on August 13, 1986, in Belleville, Illinois, a suburb of St. Louis, Missouri. Growing up in a sports-loving family, she developed an early interest in athletics, which would shape her future career. Her father, Tony Smallmon, was involved in real estate, but it was the support from her family that allowed Michelle to pursue her passions, including sports journalism.
Smallmon attended the University of Illinois, where she majored in broadcast journalism. During her time in college, she honed her skills in radio and television, participating in various internships and student media programs. Her time at university gave her the foundation she needed to enter the world of professional broadcasting.
Michelle Smallmon The Start of a Career in Sports Broadcasting
After graduating from college, Michelle Smallmon began her professional career in St. Louis. Her first major role was with KSDK, a local television station. While working there, she gained valuable experience in reporting and production, which eventually led her to a position at 101 ESPN, the premier sports radio station in St. Louis.
At 101 ESPN, Smallmon worked her way up, starting as a producer before transitioning to on-air roles. She became the co-host of the station’s popular morning show, Karraker & Smallmon, where she gained a reputation for her insightful commentary on sports, particularly on baseball and football. Smallmon’s work at 101 ESPN earned her a loyal following and helped her stand out in the competitive world of sports broadcasting.
Her ability to balance humor, insight, and a deep knowledge of sports made her a favorite among fans of the station. In fact, she became the first woman to host a show at 101 ESPN, which was a significant achievement in a male-dominated industry.
Joining ESPN Radio
Michelle Smallmon’s talents did not go unnoticed, and soon, she was offered a major opportunity with ESPN Radio. She became a co-host on the Unsportsmanlike radio show, which airs nationwide and features a mix of sports news, interviews, and analysis. Smallmon joined the show alongside well-known personalities like Evan Cohen and Chris Canty.
On Unsportsmanlike, Michelle has been able to showcase her dynamic personality and analytical skills, discussing everything from the NFL and NBA to trending topics in pop culture. The show is known for its humorous, yet insightful discussions, and Smallmon plays a key role in making it a success. Her ability to engage with listeners and provide fresh perspectives on current events has helped her earn recognition as one of the rising stars in the sports media industry.
Her move to ESPN Radio marked a turning point in her career, allowing her to reach a much larger audience and further cementing her place as a key figure in sports media.
Michelle Smallmon Personal Life: Privacy and Relationships
Michelle Smallmon has always kept her personal life private. While many aspects of her professional career are publicly known, she has been cautious about sharing details about her relationships, family, and private affairs. As of 2025, Michelle is reported to be single and has not been publicly linked to anyone romantically.
There are no confirmed reports about her being married or having children. Throughout her career, Smallmon has maintained a strong professional focus and has not allowed her personal life to overshadow her work. Her social media accounts, including Instagram and Twitter, are used primarily for career updates, sports-related commentary, and occasional glimpses into her personal interests.
Physical Appearance
Michelle Smallmon is often noted for her approachable and professional appearance. Standing at 5 feet 7 inches (170 cm), she has a well-maintained and polished look that complements her on-air persona. Her brown hair and brown eyes are often featured in photos shared across her social media platforms. Smallmon’s physical presence aligns with her role as a confident and authoritative voice in sports media, and she is often praised for her engaging and relatable personality rather than focusing on her looks.
Career Milestones and Achievements
Over the years, Michelle Smallmon has achieved several significant milestones in her broadcasting career. From her early days at 101 ESPN to her current position at ESPN Radio, she has established herself as one of the top voices in sports media. Some key achievements include:
- Breaking barriers for women in sports broadcasting: Smallmon has been a trailblazer for women in a field that has traditionally been dominated by men. Her success at 101 ESPN and later at ESPN Radio has helped pave the way for other women to break into the industry.
- Co-hosting a national radio show: As a co-host of Unsportsmanlike, Smallmon has earned recognition on a national level. The show’s mix of sports commentary and humor has made it a fan favorite, and Michelle’s unique voice has contributed to its success.
- Strong fan following: Smallmon’s engaging on-air presence has earned her a dedicated fan base. She regularly interacts with listeners on social media, and her fans appreciate her honesty, humor, and expertise.
Michelle Smallmon Social Media Presence
In today’s digital age, social media plays an important role in the careers of public figures. Michelle Smallmon is active on Instagram, where she shares updates about her professional life, behind-the-scenes moments from her radio show, and personal interests. With over 43K followers, she uses the platform to connect with fans, share sports-related content, and promote her radio show.
Smallmon is also active on Twitter and LinkedIn, where she shares insights about her work, sports news, and personal reflections. Her social media presence helps her stay connected with fans and allows her to engage in conversations about current events in the sports world.
Michelle Smallmon Net Worth and Salary
Michelle Smallmon’s financial success is a reflection of her hard work and accomplishments in the media industry. While her exact salary is not publicly disclosed, ESPN Radio hosts typically earn competitive salaries, ranging from $80,000 to $150,000+ annually. Smallmon’s role on Unsportsmanlike and her history at 101 ESPN suggest that her earnings likely fall within this range.
As for her net worth, estimates place it between $1 million and $2 million as of 2025. This is based on her successful career in broadcasting, as well as potential earnings from public speaking engagements and other media ventures.
Legacy and Influence
Michelle Smallmon’s career is a testament to her hard work, talent, and passion for sports. As a trailblazer for women in sports broadcasting, she has shown that it is possible to break into a male-dominated field and thrive. Her ability to balance humor, analysis, and authenticity has made her one of the most respected voices in sports media today.
Smallmon’s success also reflects the evolving landscape of sports media, where women are increasingly taking on prominent roles and challenging traditional gender norms. Her influence extends beyond the airwaves, as she continues to inspire future generations of broadcasters and journalists who look up to her as a role model.
Conclusion
Michelle Smallmon has proven herself to be a powerhouse in the world of sports broadcasting. From her early career in St. Louis to her current position on ESPN Radio’s Unsportsmanlike, she has built a reputation as one of the most engaging and insightful sports hosts in the industry. Whether discussing the latest NFL games or offering a fresh perspective on pop culture, Smallmon’s unique voice continues to resonate with audiences nationwide.
As she continues to build on her already impressive career, Michelle Smallmon remains a shining example of what can be achieved with hard work, dedication, and a love for sports. Her journey serves as an inspiration to many aspiring broadcasters and a reminder of the power of authenticity and passion in the world of media.
