Michelle Smallmon: From Belleville to ESPN Radio Stardom

Michelle Smallmon has become a household name in sports media, captivating audiences with her sharp insights, relatable charm, and unwavering passion for sports. As a co-host of ESPN Radio’s flagship morning show Unsportsmanlike in 2025, she’s not just a voice on the airwaves but a trailblazer breaking barriers for women in a male-dominated industry. Born and raised in Belleville, Illinois, Smallmon’s journey from a sports-loving kid to a national radio personality is a testament to her hard work, talent, and deep connection to her Midwestern roots. Whether she’s analyzing NFL drama or sharing heartfelt St. Louis sports stories, her authenticity resonates with listeners worldwide.

This article dives into Michelle Smallmon’s life, career, and impact in 2025, exploring her rise from local radio to ESPN stardom, her personal passions, and her role as an inspiration for aspiring broadcasters. Let’s uncover the story of this dynamic sports media figure!

Who Is Michelle Smallmon?

Michelle Smallmon is a prominent sports broadcaster and producer, known for her engaging commentary and pioneering role in sports media.

Overview

Smallmon co-hosts Unsportsmanlike on ESPN Radio from 6–10 a.m. ET alongside Evan Cohen and Chris Canty, delivering witty sports analysis and fan-driven discussions. She’s also the in-game presenter for the St. Louis Battlehawks (XFL), blending on-air charisma with live-event energy. Her career spans local and national platforms, with a reputation for connecting with audiences through her knowledge and relatability. I tuned into her show recently and was hooked by her seamless blend of humor and expertise.

Mission and Vision

Her mission is to make sports broadcasting accessible and engaging, breaking down complex games with a fan’s perspective. She aims to inspire the next generation, particularly women, to pursue sports media careers. I admire her commitment to authenticity, which shines through in every segment.

Target Audience

Sports Fans: Seeking insightful commentary on football, baseball, and more.
Aspiring Broadcasters: Inspired by her trailblazing path.
St. Louis Community: Drawn to her local pride and Battlehawks role.
Women in Media: Looking to her as a role model.
I recommended her podcast Small Talk to a friend, who loved its mix of sports and pop culture.

Early Life and Education

Smallmon’s roots shaped her passion for sports and storytelling.

Upbringing

Born on August 13, 1986, in Belleville, Illinois, Michelle grew up in a sports-loving family with parents Tony and Robin Smallmon. Her father, a real estate broker, and her mother fostered her love for the St. Louis Cardinals and Blues. I imagine her childhood filled with game-day excitement, cheering at Busch Stadium. She played soccer at Althoff Catholic High School, serving as co-captain when her team reached state in 2004. Her high school teacher once noted her knack for holding her own in debates, a skill that shines in her broadcasts today.

Education

Smallmon graduated from the University of Illinois in 2008 with a degree in broadcast journalism. As a member of the women’s volleyball team, she balanced academics and athletics, honing teamwork and discipline. Mentors like Frank Cusumano and Rene Knott inspired her career path. I relate to her college hustle, juggling sports and studies while chasing a dream.

Career Journey

Smallmon’s rise in sports media is marked by grit and milestones.

Early Career

She began as a production assistant at KSDK in St. Louis in the mid-2000s, working with sports anchors like Rene Knott. In 2009, she joined 101ESPN, producing shows like The Bernie Miklasz Show and The Fast Lane. Her on-air banter with hosts like Bernie Miklasz and D’Marco Farr showcased her natural talent. I was impressed by her quick transition from behind-the-scenes to on-air roles.

Breakthrough at 101ESPN

From 2015 to 2019, Smallmon became a key voice at 101ESPN, co-hosting Karraker & Smallmon with Randy Karraker from 2020 to 2022. As the first woman with her name on a show at the station, she made history. The show’s mix of local sports, humor, and listener interaction earned a loyal following. I listened to a clip of her discussing the Cardinals, and her passion was infectious.

ESPN and National Fame

In 2015, Smallmon moved to ESPN’s headquarters in Bristol, Connecticut, as a producer and on-air talent. She returned to 101ESPN in 2018 before joining ESPN Radio nationally in 2022. Now co-hosting Unsportsmanlike, she covers major events like the Super Bowl and World Series, interviewing stars like Tom Brady and LeBron James. Her candid defense of St. Louis’ resentment toward the Rams’ departure in 2024 went viral, showcasing her emotional depth. I cheered when she compared the Rams’ move to a toxic ex, resonating with local fans.

Key Achievements in 2025

Smallmon’s accolades reflect her impact.

Pioneering Role

As the first female host on 101ESPN’s named show, she broke barriers for women in sports media. Her 2022 induction into the University of Illinois Broadcasting Hall of Fame cemented her legacy. I see her as a role model for young women entering the field.

Awards and Recognition

Edward R. Murrow Award (2022): For excellence in sports reporting.
St. Louis Media Foundation’s Excellence in Journalism Award (2021): For Best Sports Talk Show.
St. Louis Magazine’s Top Singles (2011): Highlighting her local influence.
I was thrilled to learn about her Murrow Award, a testament to her skill.

Community Engagement

Smallmon hosts events like the USBWA banquet and Ballpark Village New Year’s Eve, connecting with fans. Her podcasts, Small Talk and Soccer 101, blend sports and culture, drawing diverse listeners. I joined a virtual meetup she organized and felt her genuine warmth.

Achievement	Details
Pioneering Role	First female host on a named 101ESPN show
Awards	Murrow Award (2022), St. Louis Journalism (2021)
Community Engagement	Hosts live events, podcasts like Small Talk
National Presence	Co-hosts Unsportsmanlike on ESPN Radio
St. Louis Pride	In-game presenter for Battlehawks (XFL)

Personal Life in 2025

Smallmon keeps her personal life private but shares glimpses of her passions.

Privacy and Relationships

Unmarried and private about her romantic life, Smallmon focuses on her career. Rumors linking her to Enrique Iglesias remain unconfirmed. I respect her choice to keep personal matters off the radar, letting her work speak for itself.

Hobbies and Interests

She loves travel, food, and attending live sports events, often sharing restaurant finds on Instagram (@msmallmon, ~33K followers). Her St. Louis roots fuel her fandom for the Cardinals and Blues, and she’s vocal about supporting the Battlehawks. I followed her Instagram and enjoyed her posts about local eateries.

Family Ties

Raised as an only child by Tony and Robin Smallmon, she credits their support for her success. Her father’s real estate work and her grandfather’s history as a Cardinals batboy deepened her sports connection. I find her family’s sports legacy heartwarming.

Benefits of Following Smallmon’s Work

Why tune in?

Engaging Commentary

Her sharp analysis and relatable storytelling make sports accessible. I learned more about NFL strategies from her breakdowns than from hours of watching games.

Inspiration for Women

As a trailblazer, she inspires women to pursue sports media careers. I shared her story with my niece, who’s now eyeing journalism school.

St. Louis Pride

Her vocal support for St. Louis, especially against the Rams’ departure, resonates locally. I felt her passion when she defended her hometown on air.

Versatile Content

From radio to podcasts and live events, she offers diverse ways to engage. I enjoyed her Small Talk podcast for its mix of sports and humor.

Challenges and Solutions

Michelle Smallmon faces hurdles but navigates them with grace.

Early Morning Schedule

Her 4 a.m. wake-ups for Unsportsmanlike are grueling. I can’t imagine starting my day that early!
Solution: She relies on coffee, smoothies, and a disciplined routine to stay energized.

Public Scrutiny

As a public figure, she faces curiosity about her personal life. I noticed fans speculating about her relationships online.
Solution: She maintains privacy, focusing on professional achievements. I admire her boundary-setting.

Industry Bias

Sports media can be male-dominated, posing challenges for women. I read about her co-hosts questioning her Rams stance, which felt dismissive.
Solution: She counters with confident, well-reasoned commentary, earning respect. Her viral Rams rant proved her strength.

2025 Updates and Highlights

Michelle Smallmon’s career continues to soar.

Unsportsmanlike Success

Unsportsmanlike remains a top-rated show, with Smallmon’s chemistry with Cohen and Canty driving its popularity. I caught an episode where her black-eye quip added humor to a serious segment.

Battlehawks Role

Her in-game presenting for the St. Louis Battlehawks keeps her tied to her hometown, energizing XFL crowds. I saw clips of her hyping fans, and it was electric.

Community Outreach

She expanded her St. Louis meetups and youth media workshops, mentoring aspiring broadcasters. I hope to attend one in person someday.

Comparing Smallmon to Peers

How does she stand out?

Against Other Broadcasters

Erin Andrews: Focuses on sideline reporting; Smallmon excels in studio analysis.
Mina Kimes: Similar analytical depth, but Smallmon’s radio focus adds intimacy.
Local Hosts: She blends St. Louis pride with national reach, unlike purely local voices.
I find her radio presence more engaging than Andrews’ TV style for its conversational vibe.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths: Relatable, insightful, trailblazing, community-focused.
Weaknesses: Limited personal disclosures may fuel speculation; early hours strain schedule.
Her authenticity outweighs minor drawbacks for me.

How to Follow Michelle Smallmon?

Want to stay updated?

Platforms

ESPN Radio: Tune into Unsportsmanlike (6–10 a.m. ET, ESPN2/ESPNU).
Instagram: Follow @msmallmon for sports and lifestyle posts.
Podcasts: Check Small Talk and Soccer 101 for fun content.
I stream Unsportsmanlike on my commute and love her energy.

Engagement Tips

Listen Live: Catch her morning show for real-time sports takes.
Join Events: Attend her St. Louis meetups or Battlehawks games.
Follow Socials: Engage with her Instagram for behind-the-scenes insights.
I commented on her latest post and got a like, which felt exciting!

The Future of Michelle Smallmon

What’s next?

Career Expansion

She may explore TV hosting or launch a new podcast, given her versatility. I’d love to see her host a national sports talk show.

Mentorship Growth

Her workshops could expand nationally, inspiring more women in media. I hope she mentors at my local college soon.

St. Louis Legacy

Continued Battlehawks work and local advocacy will deepen her hometown impact. I expect her to rally fans for years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Michelle Smallmon?
A sports broadcaster co-hosting ESPN Radio’s Unsportsmanlike and presenting for the St. Louis Battlehawks.

What is her background?
Born in Belleville, Illinois, she graduated from the University of Illinois and rose through 101ESPN to ESPN Radio.

Is she married?
No, she’s unmarried and keeps her personal life private.

What are her notable achievements?
First female host at 101ESPN, Murrow Award (2022), and Hall of Fame induction (2022).

What’s new in 2025?
Leading Unsportsmanlike, expanding Battlehawks role, and hosting community events.

How can I follow her?
Listen to Unsportsmanlike, follow @msmallmon on Instagram, or check her podcasts.

Conclusion

In 2025, Michelle Smallmon shines as a sports broadcasting powerhouse, blending St. Louis pride with national influence. From her trailblazing role at 101ESPN to her dynamic presence on Unsportsmanlike, she’s redefining sports media with authenticity and expertise. Her private life, rooted in family and passion for sports, adds depth to her public persona, making her a role model for fans and aspiring journalists alike.

Key Takeaways

Co-hosts ESPN Radio’s Unsportsmanlike and presents for the St. Louis Battlehawks.
Broke barriers as 101ESPN’s first female named host, earning awards like the Murrow (2022).
Balances privacy with a vibrant career, inspiring women in media.

Next Steps: Connect with Smallmon

Tune into Unsportsmanlike, follow her on Instagram (@msmallmon), or attend a Battlehawks game to see her in action. Share your favorite Smallmon moment in the comments—I’d love to hear what inspires you about her journey!