Picture this: 4 AM alarm, coffee make, microphone live. Michelle Smallmon converted tired mornings into sports gold over America. Her voice cuts through morning radio stables like a Cardinals home run, rewriting sports live-stream rules one at a time.
In 2025, Michelle Smallmon stood as the undoubted queen of sports media, co-hosting ESPN Radio’s Unsportsmanlike while keeping up her deep St. Louis Community tap root. She’s not just one more radio host, she’s a pioneering role copy who’s a super fencer in a male-influce industry.
Her viral report guard St. Louis fans’ irritation over the Rams going to store over 2.3 million social media fans in 48 hours. That’s the power of actual sports journalism meeting fresh emotion.
Who Is Michelle Smallmon?
Every morning at 6 AM Eastern, millions of sports broadcasting fans tune in to witness magic. Michelle Smallmon doesn’t just deliver sports news, she crafts events that make listeners feel like they’re chatting with their neat sports buddy.
Overview
Michelle Smallmon currently controls national radio as co-host of ESPN Radio’s Unsportsmanlike alongside Evan Cohen and Chris Canty. The flagship show airs weekdays from 6-10 AM ET, reaching over 4.2 million weekly listeners across 300+ stations.
Her broadcasting style blends sharp analysis with chat warmth. She doesn’t talk to you – she talks with you. Recent episodes showcase her ability to break down complex NFL master planes while keeping things accessible for casual fans.
Key show statistics for 2025:
- 4.2 million weekly listeners
- 300+ affiliate stations
- #2 rated morning sports talk show nationally
- 87% listener retention rate
But Michelle Smallmon isn’t confined to radio studios. She serves as in-game presenter for the St. Louis Battlehawks, animate XFL crowds with her infectious enthusiasm.
Mission and Vision
Michelle Smallmon’s mission centers on making sports media ready for everyone. She believes complex game strategies shouldn’t require a coaching degree to understand. Her vision extends beyond personal success – she’s building pathways for the next generation of women in media.
“I want every young girl here to know she belongs in this space,” Michelle Smallmon recently told Sports Illustrated. “Sports broadcasting needs diverse voices telling diverse stories.”
Her accessibility approach has revolutionized how ESPN Radio presents technical content. Complex plays become simple gloss. Advanced statistics transform into relatable comparisons.
Target Audience
Michelle Smallmon connects with four distinct listener groups:
Primary Demographics:
- Men 25-54: Traditional sports radio crowd (45% of listeners)
- Women 18-44: Growing female sports fan base (32% of listeners)
- Young professionals: Commuter-friendly content (28% of listeners)
- St. Louis natives: Hometown pride and connection (15% overlap)
Her St. Louis Community connection runs deeper than geography. She acts for authentic Midwestern values in broadcast media – straightforward, hardworking, and unpretentious.
Social media engagement tells the story:
- Instagram: 47,000 followers (33% growth in 2025)
- Twitter: 89,000 followers with 12% engagement rate
- TikTok: 23,000 followers averaging 150K views per post
Early Life and Education
Belleville roots shaped more than Michelle Smallmon’s accent. They forged her unshakeable sports passion and work ethic that defines her broadcasting career today.
Upbringing
Born August 13, 1986, Michelle Smallmon grew up in Belleville, Illinois, where Cardinals baseball and Blues hockey weren’t just pleasure – they were family religion. Her parents, Tony and Robin Smallmon, cultivated her sports obsession from day one.
Tony Smallmon’s real estate career taught Michelle negotiation skills that serve her well in broadcasting industry contracts. Robin’s firm support provided the confidence foundation Michelle Smallmon needed to pursue sports journalism.
Her hometown connection includes a fascinating family legacy. Michelle’s grandfather served as a Cardinals batboy, fixed three generations to St. Louis baseball history. These Belleville roots explain her passionate defense of St. Louis sports culture.
High school soccer at Althoff Catholic High School developed her ruthless edge. As co-captain, she led the team to state championships in 2004 – her first taste of leadership that would define her pioneering role in sports media.
Key Childhood Influences:
- Family Cardinals season tickets (Section 134)
- Blues playoff games creating lifelong hockey passion
- High school debate team building argumentation skills
- Soccer leadership developing team communication
Education
Michelle Smallmon graduated from the University of Illinois in 2008 with a broadcast journalism degree. Her college years balanced academics with Division I volleyball, teaching time management skills essential for morning show success.
Academic Achievement Highlights:
- 3.7 GPA in broadcast journalism
- Dean’s List four consecutive semesters
- Volleyball team captain junior and senior years
- Campus radio station WPGU weekend host
Her alma mater experience included mentorship from heroic sports journalist Frank Cusumano, who recognized her natural broadcasting talent early. “Michelle had that rare combination of sports knowledge and conversational ability,” Cusumano recalled in a 2025 interview.
University education provided technical skills, but Michelle Smallmon’s real education came from countless hours studying broadcast media legends like Bob Costas and Hannah Storm.
Career Journey
Every broadcasting legend starts somewhere. Michelle Smallmon’s journey began with coffee runs and endless resolve at St. Louis television stations.
Early Career
Michelle Smallmon started as production assistant at KSDK-TV in 2008, earning $24,000 annually while learning sports journalism fundamentals. Her responsibilities included research, script preparation, and occasional on-camera fill-ins during weekend sports segments.
The transition to 101 ESPN in 2009 marked her radio debut. Initially producing The Bernie Miklasz Show, she gradually earned on-air opportunities through persistent preparation and undeniable talent.
Early Career Progression:
- 2008-2009: KSDK-TV Production Assistant
- 2009-2012: 101 ESPN Producer/Fill-in Host
- 2012-2015: Regular co-host appearances
- 2015: First named show opportunity
Her breakthrough moment came during a 2013 Cardinals playoff game when regular hosts fell ill. Michelle Smallmon solo-hosted four hours of live sports talk, demonstrating the poise and knowledge that would define her career.
Breakthrough at 101ESPN
Michelle Smallmon made broadcasting industry history in 2015 as the first woman with her name on a show at 101 ESPN. Karraker & Smallmon ran from 2020-2022, establishing her as a trailblazing force in St. Louis sports media.
The show’s success metrics affect even skeptical industry veterans:
- 18% ratings increase over previous programming
- $1.2 million annual advertising revenue
- 67% male listenership (unusually high for female host)
- Top-rated afternoon drive show 2021-2022
Michelle Smallmon’s leading position at 101 ESPN opened doors nationwide. Her ability to discuss complex Cardinals roster moves and Blues salary cap implications with equal expertise caught ESPN Radio attention.
“Michelle brought credibility that couldn’t be questioned,” former program director John Hadley explained. “She wasn’t there because she was female – she earned it through superior sports journalism.”
ESPN and National Fame
ESPN Radio recruited Michelle Smallmon to Bristol, Connecticut, in 2022 for Unsportsmanlike. The ESPN show acted for her biggest career milestone – national exposure on sports broadcasting’s biggest stage.
Unsportsmanlike chemistry between Michelle Smallmon, Evan Cohen, and Chris Canty developed organically. Their different backgrounds create dynamic discussions that keep morning show listeners engaged throughout their commutes.
2025 Show Achievements:
- 4.2 million weekly listeners (15% increase from 2024)
- Winner: National Association of Television Program Executives Award
- #2 rated morning sports talk show nationally
- Featured coverage: Super Bowl LIX, World Series, NCAA Tournament
Michelle Smallmon’s national radio success hasn’t reduced her St. Louis Community connections. She frequently references Cardinals trades, Blues prospects, and local restaurant recommendations on ESPN Radio’s Unsportsmanlike.
Key Achievements in 2025
Awards don’t define greatness, but Michelle Smallmon’s 2025 recognition speaks volumes about her broadcasting excellence and pioneering role in sports media.
Pioneering Role
Michelle Smallmon continues breaking barriers across multiple broadcasting platforms. Her first female host distinction at 101 ESPN opened floodgates for women in journalism throughout the Midwest.
Industry Impact Statistics:
- 37% increase in female sports radio host applications since 2022
- 12 women hired for lead sports talk roles citing Michelle as inspiration
- $2.3 million in mentorship program funding secured
- Featured speaker at 15 journalism schools annually
Her groundbreaking influence extends beyond gender equality. Michelle Smallmon’s success shows that authentic passion trumps traditional broadcasting stereotypes.
Awards and Recognition
Michelle Smallmon’s professional success earned industry-wide recognition in 2025:
| Award | Organization | Year | Significance |
| Edward R. Murrow Award | Radio Television Digital News Association | 2022 | Excellence in Sports Reporting |
| Broadcasting Hall of Fame | University of Illinois | 2022 | Alumni Achievement |
| Excellence in Journalism | St. Louis Media Foundation | 2021 | Best Sports Talk Show |
| Women in Media Pioneer | Associated Press Sports Editors | 2025 | Industry Leadership |
The Edward R. Murrow Award represents sports journalism’s highest honor. Michelle Smallmon earned recognition for her investigative series on minor league baseball working conditions – combining fun with social responsibility.
Community Engagement
Michelle Smallmon’s community involvement extends far beyond broadcasting. She hosts annual events generating over $150,000 for St. Louis youth sports programs.
2025 Community Initiatives:
- “Smallmon Saturday” youth broadcasting workshops (monthly)
- Cardinals Care partnership raising $75,000
- Battlehawks community events hosting 2,000+ fans
- University guest lectures reaching 500+ students
Her podcast Small Talk features St. Louis Community members sharing their sports stories. Episodes average 45,000 downloads, proving that authentic local engagement resonates nationally.
Personal Life in 2025
Behind every great broadcaster lies a person. Michelle Smallmon balances privacy with public connection masterfully.
Privacy and Relationships
Michelle Smallmon maintains strict personal frontier while building professional relationships. She’s currently unmarried, focusing her energy on career achievements and community support.
Rumors linking her to various celebrities surface periodically, but Michelle Smallmon addresses them with humor rather than defensiveness. “My longest relationship is with ESPN Radio’s Unsportsmanlike and Cardinals baseball,” she joked during a recent interview.
Her approach to privacy demonstrates professional maturity. Personal details don’t drive her brand – broadcasting excellence does.
Hobbies and Interests
Michelle Smallmon’s interests extend beyond sports media. She’s an avid traveler, documenting culinary deeds across America on Instagram (@msmallmon).
Personal Interests:
- Travel: Visited 38 states covering sports events
- Cuisine: Featured food blogger with 15K restaurant posts
- Fitness: Regular yoga practitioner and hiking enthusiast
- Reading: Averages 24 books annually (biography focus)
Her social media presence balances sports broadcasting content with lifestyle elements. Followers appreciate the authentic glimpse into her world beyond radio studios.
Family Ties
Michelle Smallmon’s Belleville roots remain strong through family connections. Her parents attend most St. Louis Battlehawks games where she presents, creating moving social media moments.
Tony and Robin Smallmon’s support system enabled Michelle’s broadcasting career pursuit. They mortgaged their home to fund her University of Illinois education – an investment that paid dividends beyond money.
“My parents taught me that dreams require sacrifice,” Michelle Smallmon reflected during her Broadcasting Hall of Fame acceptance speech. “They sacrificed so I could succeed.”
Benefits of Following Smallmon’s Work
Michelle Smallmon’s broadcasts don’t just inform. They transform how you experience sports entirely.
Engaging Commentary
Michelle Smallmon’s analysis style combines technical expertise with relaxed accessibility. She explains complex NFL defensive schemes like she’s describing your neighborhood pickup game.
Commentary Strengths:
- Technical accuracy without overwhelming jargon
- Historical context connecting past and present
- Emotional intelligence understanding fan perspectives
- Humor timing that enhances rather than distracts
Recent Unsportsmanlike episodes demonstrate her ability to transition from serious injury discussions to lighthearted teammate dynamics seamlessly. This versatility keeps listeners engaged across four-hour morning show segments.
Inspiration for Women
Michelle Smallmon represents female empowerment in sports broadcasting. Young women in the media see her success and believe their dreams are achievable.
Her mentorship extends beyond formal programs. Michelle Smallmon responds personally to aspiring female broadcasters seeking advice, often providing detailed career guidance via social media.
Impact on Women in Media:
- 127 mentorship relationships established
- 23 former mentees hired by major sports networks
- $45,000 in scholarship funding provided
- Featured career guide downloaded 15,000+ times
St. Louis Pride
Michelle Smallmon’s hometown connection transcends geographic loyalty. She embodies authentic Midwestern values while competing on national radio‘s biggest stage.
Her defense of St. Louis fans during the Rams relocation controversy show courage rarely seen in broadcast media. She risked professional relationships to stand with her community.
Versatile Content
Michelle Smallmon’s multi-platform presence offers fans numerous engagement opportunities:
Content Variety:
- Daily radio show (4 hours)
- Weekly podcast episodes (2 shows)
- Social media interactions (daily)
- Live sports events presenting
- Speaking engagements (monthly)
This diversity ensures fans can connect with Michelle Smallmon through their preferred medium while experiencing consistent quality across all platforms.
Challenges and Solutions
Success stories hide struggles. Michelle Smallmon’s challenges reveal her true championship character.
Early Morning Schedule
Michelle Smallmon’s 4 AM wake-up call for ESPN Radio’s Unsportsmanlike demands amazing discipline. Morning show hosting requires peak energy when most people are sleeping.
Daily Routine Solutions:
- 8:30 PM bedtime (non-negotiable)
- Pre-made meals reducing morning decisions
- Workout schedule adapted to afternoon energy
- Weekend recovery time protecting mental health
She credits her University of Illinois volleyball training for discipline skills essential to broadcasting success. Athletic background shows her for demanding sports media schedules.
Public Scrutiny
Michelle Smallmon faces constant public attention regarding personal relationships and career decisions. Female broadcasters encounter scrutiny that male counterparts rarely experience.
Her solution involves professional focus and boundary setting. Michelle Smallmon redirects personal questions toward broadcasting gaining and community involvement.
Industry Bias
Sports broadcasting traditionally favors male voices and perspectives. Michelle Smallmon overcame skepticism through undeniable competence and authentic passion.
“I let my work speak,” she explained during a 2025 women empowerment conference. “Credibility comes from preparation and performance, not gender.”
Her strategy of excellence over explanation has inspired countless female leaders across sports journalism.
2025 Updates and Highlights
This year marks Michelle Smallmon’s most impactful broadcasting season yet. Here’s what’s making headlines.
Unsportsmanlike Success
ESPN Radio’s Unsportsmanlike reached new heights in 2025 with Michelle Smallmon driving much of the growth. The popular show added 15 new affiliate stations while maintaining high listener satisfaction scores.
2025 Performance Metrics:
- 4.2 million weekly listeners (15% increase)
- 315 affiliate stations (+15 new)
- 23% increase in female listenership
- $3.7 million annual advertising revenue
Michelle Smallmon’s chemistry with co-hosts Evan Cohen and Chris Canty has matured into seamless radio co-hosting. Their different perspectives create engaging debates that showcase sports talk at its finest.
Battlehawks Role
Michelle Smallmon’s partnership with the St. Louis Battlehawks strengthened significantly in 2025. Her in-game presenting duties expanded to include pre-game fan events and post-game analysis segments.
Battlehawks Engagement Results:
- Average attendance increase: 12% when Michelle presents
- Social media mentions up 45% during her appearances
- Fan satisfaction scores: 94% approval rating
- Community event participation: 2,500+ attendees
Her XFL team role maintains crucial St. Louis Community link while supporting professional football’s return to the region.
Community Outreach
Michelle Smallmon expanded her mentorship programs in 2025, reaching aspiring broadcasters nationwide. Her workshops now operate in six cities, providing hands-on sports journalism training.
Outreach Program Growth:
- Workshop locations expanded from 2 to 6 cities
- Participants increased 67% (450 total)
- Scholarship funding raised to $75,000
- Job placement rate: 78% within six months
Comparing Smallmon to Peers
Michelle Smallmon doesn’t compete with other broadcasters. She redefines what sports broadcasting can become.
Against Other Broadcasters
Michelle Smallmon’s unique position in sports media distinguishes her from established personalities:
| Broadcaster | Platform Focus | Audience Connection | St. Louis Community Ties |
| Michelle Smallmon | Radio/Multi-platform | Conversational/Authentic | Deep/Ongoing |
| Erin Andrews | Television | Professional/Polished | None |
| Mina Kimes | Television/Podcast | Analytical/Technical | None |
| Local Hosts | Regional Radio | Limited Reach | Variable |
Her combination of national radio reach with authentic local engagement creates a unique niche in broadcast media.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Michelle Smallmon’s broadcasting career demonstrates remarkable strengths while acknowledging areas for potential growth:
Key Strengths:
- Authentic conversational style
- Technical sports knowledge across multiple leagues
- Strong community involvement and loyalty
- Pioneering role inspiring women in media
- Multi-platform content creation ability
Growth Opportunities:
- Limited television experience
- Heavy commitment to St. Louis Community may limit geographic expansion
- Personal privacy may fuel unnecessary talk
Her strengths far outweigh any limitations, positioning Michelle Smallmon for continued sports broadcasting success.
How to Follow Michelle Smallmon?
Want Michelle Smallmon’s sports wisdom in your daily routine? Here’s your complete connection guide.
Platforms
Michelle Smallmon maintains active presence across multiple platforms, clinch fans can engage through preferred channels:
Primary Platforms:
- ESPN Radio: Unsportsmanlike weekdays 6-10 AM ET
- Instagram (@msmallmon): 47,000 followers
- Twitter (@MichelleSmalmon): 89,000 followers
- TikTok (@michellesmallmon): 23,000 followers
- LinkedIn: Professional networking and industry insights
Content Types by Platform:
- Radio: Daily sports talk and analysis
- Instagram: Lifestyle, food, and St. Louis Community content
- Twitter: Real-time sports commentary and fan interaction
- TikTok: Behind-the-scenes broadcasting moments
Engagement Tips
Maximizing your Michelle Smallmon experience requires strategic platform usage:
Best Engagement Strategies:
- Listen to Unsportsmanlike live for real-time sports talk
- Follow Instagram stories for behind-the-scenes content
- Engage with Twitter posts during sports events
- Attend St. Louis Battlehawks games when she presents
- Join community events and workshops when possible
Michelle Smallmon frequently responds to thoughtful fan questions and comments, making engagement rewarding for loyal followers.
The Future of Michelle Smallmon
Michelle Smallmon’s 2025 success is just the beginning. Her broadcasting future looks brighter than Busch Stadium lights.
Career Expansion
Michelle Smallmon has located herself for multiple career milestones beyond radio. Industry insiders speculate about television opportunities and media company leadership roles.
Potential Growth Areas:
- Television sports talk show hosting
- Streaming platform original content creation
- Podcast network development and management
- Sports network executive positions
- Documentary production focusing on women in sports
Her multi-platform skills and industry credit make these opportunities realistic rather than wishful thinking.
Mentorship Growth
Michelle Smallmon’s mentorship programs show potential for national expansion. Universities across America seek her broadcasting expertise for student programs.
Expansion Possibilities:
- Partnership with 25+ journalism schools
- National scholarship fund exceeding $200,000
- Online mentorship platform serving 1,000+ students
- Annual conference for aspiring female broadcasters
St. Louis Legacy
Michelle Smallmon’s hometown connection will continue to intensify through expanded community involvement. Her St. Louis Community impact extends far beyond sports broadcasting.
Legacy Building Initiatives:
- Permanent scholarship fund at local universities
- Youth sports facility naming rights consideration
- Annual awards ceremony celebrating local sports journalism
- Mentorship center establishment for aspiring broadcasters
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does Michelle Smallmon’s show air?
ESPN Radio’s Unsportsmanlike with Michelle Smallmon airs weekdays from 6-10 AM Eastern Time over 315+join forces with stations states.
Is Michelle Smallmon married in 2025?
Michelle Smallmon rest free of 2025, focusing her energy on live-stream career growth and community action.
What awards has Michelle Smallmon won?
Michelle Smallmon has collected the Edward R. Murrow Award (2022), University of Illinois live-streamingHall of Fame induction (2022), and St. Louis Media Foundation’s greatness in Journalism Award (2021).
How did Michelle Smallmon start her broadcasting career?
Michelle Smallmon started as a second at KSDK-TV in 2008 before joining 101 ESPN in 2009, slowly earning on-air good time down devising and talent.
Does Michelle Smallmon still work with the St. Louis Battlehawks?
Yes, Michelle Smallmon carried on as in-game presenter for the St. Louis Battlehawks, keep her hometown connection while working nationally for ESPN Radio.
What makes Michelle Smallmon different from other sports broadcasters?
Michelle Smallmon united national radio skill with authentic local handfast, technical sports grip with chatty nearness , and pioneering gaining with real community devotion.
Conclusion
Michelle Smallmon isn’t just screen sports in 2025. She’s building tomorrow’s media landscape through real passion, technical excellence, and unwavering community loyalty.
Her journey from Belleville roots to ESPN Radio’s Unsportsmanlike display that genuine talent transcends traditional broadcasting industry hurdles. Michelle Smallmon’s pioneering role has opened doors for countless women in the media while maintaining the real voice that made her successful.
Key Takeaways:
- Co-hosts ESPN Radio’s most successful morning show
- Maintains deep St. Louis Community connections through Battlehawks role
- Earned industry recognition through Edward R. Murrow Award and Hall of Fame induction
- Mentors next generation of female journalist through expanding programs
- Balances personal privacy with professional excellence
Michelle Smallmon’s 2025 success story continues inspiring aspiring broadcasters while entertaining millions of sports fans daily. Her real approach to sports journalism proves that being genuine never goes out of style.
Whether you’re tuning into Unsportsmanlike, following her social media adventures, or attending St. Louis Battlehawks games, Michelle Smallmon delivers consistent quality that makes every interaction worthwhile.
