Michelle Smallmon has become one of the most recognizable voices in sports radio today. As co-host of ESPN Radio’s flagship morning show, Unsportsmanlike, she’s breaking barriers and setting new standards for women in sports broadcasting. But who is Michelle Smallmon beyond the microphone? Let’s dive deep into her journey, career achievements, personal life, and everything you need to know about this rising star in sports media.
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Who is Michelle Smallmon?
Michelle Smallmon is an American sports radio host, media personality, and broadcaster best known for co-hosting ESPN Radio’s signature morning show, Unsportsmanlike, alongside Evan Cohen and Chris Canty. Born on August 13, 1986, in Belleville, Illinois, Michelle has built an impressive career in sports journalism that spans over 15 years.
What makes Michelle stand out in the crowded field of sports broadcasting is her authentic voice, deep sports knowledge, and ability to connect with listeners on both professional and personal levels. She’s not just reading stats and scores. She’s bringing real conversation, genuine opinions, and a fresh perspective to sports talk radio.
Before joining ESPN Radio’s national network, Michelle made history at 101ESPN in St. Louis, becoming the first woman to have her name on a show in the station’s history. This groundbreaking achievement paved the way for her current role, where she reaches millions of listeners across the country every morning.
Early Life and Family Background
Michelle Smallmon grew up in Belleville, Illinois, a suburban community just outside St. Louis, Missouri. She was raised by her parents, Tony and Robin Smallmon, in a household where sports weren’t just entertainment but a way of life.
Her father, Tony Smallmon, works as a real estate broker and was an avid baseball fan who played a crucial role in shaping Michelle’s love for sports. In an interview with the Belleville News-Democrat, Michelle recalled those formative years, saying her father would take her to St. Louis Cardinals games and make her keep score. Those early experiences at Busch Stadium weren’t just father-daughter bonding time, they were Michelle’s first lessons in understanding sports from an analytical perspective.
Growing up a Cardinals and Blues fan, Michelle absorbed the passion and loyalty that St. Louis sports fans are known for. This Midwest upbringing gave her a relatable, down-to-earth quality that resonates with listeners across different markets.
Her mother, Robin Smallmon, provided the support and encouragement that allowed Michelle to pursue her dreams in a male-dominated industry. The values instilled by both parents, hard work, dedication, and authenticity, continue to define Michelle’s approach to her career today.
Education and Athletic Background
Michelle attended Althoff Catholic High School in Belleville, where she wasn’t just a sports fan but an athlete herself. She played varsity volleyball as a freshman, demonstrating early on that she had the competitive drive and athletic ability to succeed at high levels.
By her senior year in 2004, Michelle served as co-captain of the volleyball team, leading her squad to the state tournament. This experience on the court gave her invaluable insights into team dynamics, competitive pressure, and the athlete’s mindset, perspectives that would later enhance her sports commentary and interviews.
After graduating high school, Michelle pursued her passion for sports and media at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She earned her degree in broadcast journalism in 2008, a pivotal achievement that set the foundation for her broadcasting career.
Even in college, Michelle couldn’t stay away from sports. She joined the women’s volleyball team at Illinois, balancing the demands of being a student-athlete with her academic pursuits in journalism. This dual experience gave her a unique perspective that most sports broadcasters simply don’t have. She knows what it’s like to be on both sides of the microphone.
During her time at Illinois, Michelle was influenced by prominent St. Louis sportscasters like Frank Cusumano and Rene Knott, who became mentors and role models. Their professionalism, knowledge, and on-air presence inspired Michelle to pursue a career in sports broadcasting.
Career Journey: From Production Assistant to National Radio Host
The Beginning: KSDK and Early Experience (2008-2009)
Michelle’s professional journey began right after college graduation. She landed her first job as a news production assistant at KSDK, the NBC affiliate in St. Louis. This behind-the-scenes role taught her the fundamentals of television production, content creation, and the fast-paced nature of news media.
Working in news rather than sports might seem like a detour, but it was actually crucial to Michelle’s development. She learned how to research stories, verify information, work under tight deadlines, and understand what makes content engaging for viewers. These skills would prove invaluable throughout her career.
101ESPN St. Louis Era (2009-2022)
In 2009, Michelle joined 101ESPN in St. Louis as a production assistant, marking her entry into sports radio. This was where she truly found her calling. Over the next 13 years, Michelle worked her way up through various roles, gaining experience both behind the scenes and on the air.
She produced and contributed to multiple signature shows across the station, including The Fast Lane and The Bernie Miklasz Show. These opportunities allowed her to develop her voice, refine her opinions, and learn from experienced sports broadcasters.
The breakthrough came in May 2020 when Michelle became co-host of Karraker & Smallmon, the station’s morning show. This was a historic moment, not just for Michelle but for women in sports radio. She became the first woman to have her name on a show in 101ESPN’s history, a barrier-breaking achievement that signaled changing times in sports media.
Karraker & Smallmon ran from May 2020 to September 2022 and became one of the most popular sports radio shows in the St. Louis market. Michelle’s chemistry with co-host Randy Karraker, her sharp sports insights, and her ability to discuss topics beyond just scores and stats made the show appointment listening for St. Louis sports fans.
ESPN Radio National Platform (2022-Present)
In 2022, Michelle made the jump to ESPN Radio’s national network, a significant career milestone. She initially contributed to weekend content before being named co-host of Unsportsmanlike, the network’s flagship morning show that airs weekdays from 6:00 to 10:00 AM ET.
Unsportsmanlike features Michelle alongside Evan Cohen and Chris Canty, creating a dynamic trio with complementary skills and perspectives. Evan Cohen brings over 20 years of radio experience across multiple national and local stations. Chris Canty, a Super Bowl champion and 11-year NFL veteran, provides insider perspective from his playing career.
The show airs on ESPN Radio, SiriusXM Channel 80, and is also simulcast on ESPN2, giving Michelle unprecedented reach and visibility. The podcast version of the show consistently ranks among the top sports podcasts, extending the show’s influence even further.
What makes Unsportsmanlike successful is the genuine chemistry between the three hosts and their willingness to go beyond traditional sports talk. They discuss sports, obviously, but they also dive into life, culture, relationships, and current events, creating a more holistic and entertaining listening experience.
Michelle has described the Unsportsmanlike community as one of the things she loves most about the show. In a recent interview with Barrett Media, she said, “I love our Unsportsmanlike community because they always make me think.” This engagement with listeners, both through social media and call-ins, creates a two-way conversation that keeps the show fresh and relevant.
Beyond Radio: Other Professional Roles
Michelle’s talents extend beyond the radio booth. She has taken on several additional roles that showcase her versatility as a broadcaster and media personality.
XFL St. Louis Battlehawks In-Game Host
Michelle served as the in-game presenter for the St. Louis XFL team, the Battlehawks. This role allowed her to connect with fans in person, provide live commentary and analysis, and be part of the exciting revival of professional football in St. Louis. The energy and interaction required for in-game hosting is different from radio work, and Michelle excelled in both environments.
St. Louis City SC Content Contributor
When Major League Soccer expanded to St. Louis with St. Louis City SC, Michelle contributed video content for the team. This showed her adaptability across different sports and media formats. Soccer might not be her primary focus, but her ability to engage with different sports audiences demonstrates her broad appeal and versatility.
Podcast and Digital Content
Beyond the daily radio show, Michelle regularly appears on ESPN’s various podcasts and digital content platforms. The rise of digital media has created new opportunities for broadcasters, and Michelle has embraced these channels to reach younger, more diverse audiences who consume sports content differently than traditional radio listeners.
Personal Life: Age, Height, and Relationship Status
As of October 2025, Michelle Smallmon is 39 years old, having been born on August 13, 1986. Her zodiac sign is Leo, which is fitting given Leos are known for their confidence, warmth, and natural leadership qualities, all traits Michelle displays on air.
Michelle stands at 5 feet 7 inches (170 centimeters) tall and weighs approximately 143 pounds (65 kilograms). She maintains an active, healthy lifestyle, which makes sense given her athletic background and busy professional schedule.
When it comes to her personal life, Michelle has chosen to keep things private. As of 2025, she is not married and has not publicly confirmed any romantic relationships. She prefers to let her professional achievements speak for themselves rather than making her personal life a topic of public discussion.
In 2024, there were rumors connecting Michelle to ABC’s reality dating show, The Bachelorette. However, these rumors were unfounded. Michelle has never been a contestant on the show, though she did participate in a playful NFL Bachelorette segment on Unsportsmanlike, which may have caused some confusion.
Michelle’s decision to maintain privacy around her personal life is increasingly rare in the age of social media, where public figures often feel pressure to share everything. Her focus remains on her work, her passion for sports, and her connection with listeners through the content she creates.
Michelle Smallmon Net Worth and Salary
Michelle Smallmon’s financial success reflects her growing prominence in sports media. As of 2025, her net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $3 million, with most sources settling on approximately $2 million.
Her primary income sources include her salary as a co-host of ESPN Radio’s Unsportsmanlike, her previous roles at 101ESPN, her work as an in-game presenter for the XFL Battlehawks, content creation for St. Louis City SC, and various appearance fees and endorsements.
Industry sources estimate Michelle’s annual salary to be around $100,000 to $150,000, though exact figures aren’t publicly disclosed. National radio hosts at major networks like ESPN typically earn in this range, with potential for increases based on ratings, contract negotiations, and additional responsibilities.
It’s worth noting that Michelle’s earning potential is still growing. As Unsportsmanlike continues to build its audience and Michelle’s profile rises, she’s positioned for significant salary increases in future contract negotiations. The sports media industry has historically underpaid women compared to their male counterparts, but that gap is slowly closing as talented broadcasters like Michelle prove their value.
Beyond salary, Michelle’s net worth includes savings, investments, and assets accumulated over her 15-plus year career. Her financial stability is a testament to her consistent work ethic and smart career decisions, moving from local radio to the national stage at the right times.
Physical Appearance and On-Air Presence
Michelle has brown hair and striking black eyes that complement her warm, engaging on-air presence. Her style is professional yet approachable, reflecting the balance she strikes between being an authoritative sports voice and a relatable personality.
What really stands out about Michelle isn’t her physical attributes but her confidence and authenticity. In an industry where women often face pressure to look or act a certain way, Michelle has carved out her own identity. She’s knowledgeable without being condescending, opinionated without being controversial for controversy’s sake, and passionate without being over-the-top.
Her athletic background gives her a natural comfort discussing sports that comes through in her broadcasting. She understands the games, the strategies, and the emotions involved at a deeper level than someone who’s only watched from the sidelines.
Breaking Barriers: First Woman at 101ESPN
One of Michelle’s most significant career achievements was becoming the first woman to have her name on a show at 101ESPN in St. Louis. This wasn’t just a personal milestone, it was a breakthrough for women in sports radio.
Sports talk radio has historically been a male-dominated space. Women were often relegated to sideline reporting, hosting pre-game shows, or covering “softer” stories while men handled the main talk shows. Michelle’s success at 101ESPN proved that women could excel in the traditionally male space of sports talk radio.
The significance of this achievement cannot be overstated. By succeeding at 101ESPN, Michelle opened doors for other women in St. Louis sports media and beyond. She showed program directors and station managers that female hosts could connect with male-dominated sports audiences just as effectively as their male counterparts.
Notable Interviews and Career Highlights
Throughout her career, Michelle has interviewed some of the biggest names in sports, demonstrating her credibility and access in the industry. Her interview subjects have included Tom Brady, LeBron James, Mike Trout, and Patrick Mahomes, representing the elite of football, basketball, and baseball.
These aren’t just short sideline interviews. Michelle conducts substantive conversations that reveal insights about these athletes beyond their on-field performance. Her volleyball background and understanding of athletic competition allow her to ask informed questions that go deeper than surface-level sports talk.
One of Michelle’s career highlights was being part of the ESPN Radio coverage of major sporting events like the Super Bowl, NBA Finals, and World Series. These high-pressure, high-profile broadcasts showcase her ability to perform at the highest levels of sports media.
Charity Work and Community Involvement
Beyond her broadcasting career, Michelle is actively involved in charitable causes and community work. She’s set to run the New York City Marathon on behalf of the V Foundation for Cancer Research, founded by ESPN and legendary basketball coach Jim Valvano. This commitment demonstrates her willingness to use her platform and personal effort to support important causes.
Michelle has also been involved with The Young Professionals for the St. Louis Zoo and The Little Bit Foundation, which works to break down barriers to learning for children with special needs. These organizations benefit from her profile and her genuine commitment to giving back to the community that supported her career development.
Her charitable work reflects values that extend beyond sports and broadcasting. Michelle understands that her platform comes with responsibility, and she uses it to support causes that make a real difference in people’s lives.
Social Media Presence and Fan Engagement
Michelle maintains an active presence on social media, particularly on Instagram (@msmallmon) and X/Twitter (@msmallmon). Her Instagram has over 42,000 followers, while her social media platforms serve as extensions of her radio show, providing behind-the-scenes content, personal insights, and direct engagement with fans.
Her social media strategy balances professional content about Unsportsmanlike and her career with glimpses into her personality and interests outside of work. She shares photos from sporting events, interactions with colleagues, charitable activities, and occasional personal moments, creating a well-rounded public image.
The Unsportsmanlike show also has its own social media presence (@unsportslike on Instagram), where fans can engage with show content, participate in discussions, and connect with the broader community of listeners. This multi-platform approach is essential in modern media, where audiences consume content across various channels.
Michelle’s engagement with fans on social media is genuine and frequent. She responds to comments, participates in discussions, and acknowledges the community that supports the show. This accessibility makes listeners feel connected to her in a way that traditional radio alone can’t achieve.
What Makes Michelle Smallmon Stand Out?
In a crowded field of sports broadcasters, what makes Michelle Smallmon special? Several factors contribute to her success and growing influence:
Authenticity
Michelle doesn’t try to be someone she’s not. Her Midwest roots, her genuine love for sports, and her honest opinions come through in every broadcast. In an era where many media personalities seem manufactured or scripted, Michelle’s authenticity is refreshing.
Knowledge and Preparation
Michelle does her homework. She’s not just reading talking points or relying on hot takes. Her analysis is informed, her questions are thoughtful, and her perspectives are based on real understanding of the games and athletes she covers.
Versatility
From radio to television to in-game hosting to digital content, Michelle excels across multiple formats. This versatility makes her valuable to ESPN and positions her for continued career growth.
Chemistry with Co-Hosts
The success of Unsportsmanlike depends significantly on the chemistry between Michelle, Evan Cohen, and Chris Canty. Michelle’s ability to play off her co-hosts, balance different personalities, and contribute to a cohesive show is a crucial skill.
Breaking Barriers Without Making It the Story
While Michelle’s achievements as a woman in sports radio are significant, she doesn’t make that the focus of her work. She lets her talent speak for itself, which paradoxically makes her success even more impactful.
The Future of Michelle Smallmon’s Career
Looking ahead, Michelle Smallmon’s career trajectory appears to be pointing upward. The success of Unsportsmanlike has raised her national profile, and opportunities for growth abound in the evolving sports media landscape.
Potential future opportunities could include expanding into television broadcasting, as ESPN often moves talent between radio and TV. Michelle’s on-camera presence during Unsportsmanlike’s ESPN2 simulcast shows she’s comfortable on television. Major studio shows, pre-game coverage, or even play-by-play opportunities could be in her future.
She might also expand into podcasting beyond Unsportsmanlike. Individual podcasts focusing on specific sports, interviewing athletes, or exploring sports culture could allow Michelle to dive deeper into topics and reach niche audiences.
As sports betting and fantasy sports continue to grow, broadcasters who can analyze games from multiple angles become increasingly valuable. Michelle’s analytical skills position her well for this evolving market.
Michelle could also move into leadership roles at ESPN or other networks, helping shape programming decisions and mentor the next generation of sports broadcasters, particularly women entering the industry.
Frequently Asked Questions About Michelle Smallmon
How old is Michelle Smallmon?
Michelle Smallmon is 39 years old as of October 2025. She was born on August 13, 1986, in Belleville, Illinois.
Is Michelle Smallmon married?
No, Michelle Smallmon is not married as of 2025. She keeps her personal life private and has not publicly confirmed any romantic relationships.
What is Michelle Smallmon salary at ESPN?
While exact figures aren’t publicly disclosed, industry estimates suggest Michelle earns between $100,000 and $150,000 annually as co-host of Unsportsmanlike on ESPN Radio.
What is Michelle Smallmon net worth?
Michelle Smallmon’s net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $3 million as of 2025, reflecting her successful career in sports broadcasting.
Where did Michelle Smallmon go to college?
Michelle attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where she graduated in 2008 with a degree in broadcast journalism. She also played on the women’s volleyball team while in college.
What show does Michelle Smallmon host?
Michelle co-hosts Unsportsmanlike on ESPN Radio with Evan Cohen and Chris Canty. The show airs weekdays from 6:00 to 10:00 AM ET on ESPN Radio, SiriusXM Channel 80, and is simulcast on ESPN2.
How tall is Michelle Smallmon?
Michelle Smallmon stands 5 feet 7 inches (170 centimeters) tall.
Did Michelle Smallmon play sports?
Yes, Michelle played varsity volleyball at Althoff Catholic High School, serving as co-captain her senior year. She continued playing volleyball at the University of Illinois.
What is Michelle Smallmon’s background?
Michelle grew up in Belleville, Illinois, raised by parents Tony and Robin Smallmon. Her father’s love of baseball and frequent trips to St. Louis Cardinals games inspired her passion for sports.
Was Michelle Smallmon on The Bachelorette?
No, Michelle has never been a contestant on The Bachelorette. She did participate in a playful NFL Bachelorette segment on ESPN Radio’s Unsportsmanlike, which may have caused some confusion.
Conclusion
Michelle Smallmon has established herself as one of the premier voices in sports radio today. From her humble beginnings in Belleville, Illinois, keeping score at Cardinals games with her father, to co-hosting ESPN Radio’s flagship morning show, her journey exemplifies dedication, talent, and breaking barriers.
At 39 years old, Michelle is entering what could be the prime years of her broadcasting career. Her combination of experience, credibility, and evolving platform positions her for continued success and influence in sports media. Whether she’s interviewing superstar athletes, debating the latest sports controversies with Evan and Canty, or engaging with the Unsportsmanlike community, Michelle brings authenticity and insight that resonates with listeners.
As sports media continues to evolve with new platforms, technologies, and audience expectations, broadcasters like Michelle Smallmon who can adapt, connect, and deliver quality content across multiple formats will continue to thrive. Her story is still being written, and the best chapters may be yet to come.
For fans of Unsportsmanlike, for aspiring broadcasters, and for anyone who appreciates quality sports commentary, Michelle Smallmon is a name you’ll be hearing for many years to come. She’s not just riding the wave of changing sports media, she’s helping to shape where it’s going.