Photoshoot / Interview
Tell us about your career?
Born and raised in Atlanta, GA, I went to UGA and graduated with a double major in Business and Broadcast Journalism. Out of college, I freelanced for about eight months. I worked for Sporting News, Bleacher Report, and ESPN/ SEC Network. That experience and time (especially when I was a one-man band) with Sporting News taught you to appreciate every aspect of the production. From shooting, audio, and editing, it takes a village, not just the person in front of the camera. It’s truly a team. After doing that for almost a year, I got a call from NFL Network and moved to LA to start working full-time for them!
I understand that you loved football growing up. How did you become so passionate about this sport?
I’ve always been a big sports fan growing up. I grew up in Atlanta, right in the middle of SEC country, so Saturdays were always a day for college football, and Sundays were for NFL football. I’ve always loved how sports bring people together. Sports teach us so many life lessons. Self-discipline, handling fear and failure, mental toughness, resilience, responsibility, teamwork, and learning to work with others applies to every part of life.
How was your first appearance on tv?
I can’t even remember; it was so long ago! With everything in life, a routine matters; you need to do something consistently to get comfortable with it. I still get nervous before big games, but that’s normal. I think part of getting nervous is wanting to be the best version of yourself and present the material in the best way possible.
What was your big break in your career?
It was getting hired by NFL Network. I was freelancing before NFL Network. It’s hard to take chances and get comfortable on an assignment-by-assignment basis. I love how social media allows the younger generation to have their platforms before joining a network. We often talk about the negative aspects of social media, but there are just as many positive aspects to it. It’s all in how you use it.
What is the thing you enjoyed the most in your job?
The opportunity to share players’ stories. Not just what they do on the field but who they are off the field.
What would you recommend to someone that wants to start working in the entertainment industry?
Be prepared for rejection but don’t allow it to discourage you. Use it as motivation to work harder and get better. It doesn’t matter how many no’s preceded it; all you need is one yes to make your dreams come true.
Who do you admire the most?
My parents.
I understand you love fashion. How would you describe your style?
I love fashion! It’s a way to express yourself, try new things, and get creative. It’s a form of art. I love getting dressed up for events, but on a day-to-day basis, I’m a jeans and white/black tee girl. Or workout clothes! I love matching workout sets. They are simple, comfortable, and easy to wear. One of the best parts about living in LA and at the beach is it’s very casual. You never feel underdressed.
How is it to work in a male industry?
You have to work twice as hard to get half as many opportunities. People will comment on what you are wearing and how you look before listening to what you say. While I don’t wish for this, it makes you grow thick skin quickly!
How do you prepare before a report?
Over prepare always! The hardest part is narrowing down the topic into a minute and a half.
How does it feel to be changing the stigma for women in sports?
I wish I could take credit, but many women before me paved the way for women today. They were pioneers and made it so that it wasn’t abnormal to see female sideline reporters, women hosts, and anchors. The females in our industry today are responsible for continuing the growth. The best way we can do that is by empowering one another. We need to stop thinking of other females in the business as competition and start outwardly supporting each other more. I love that we are beginning to see more and more of that. There is room for all of us.
How do you hope you’re inspiring others?
When I first entered the business, I quickly realized how competitive it was amongst females, being against each other. Now ten years in, I’m seeing so much more support in the industry. I want to be someone that younger girls can come to for advice. I want to be an advocate and an ally for other females in the industry. We shouldn’t be each other’s competition; we should be outwardly supporting one another. I want to show others that you can be successful while supporting and empowering one another, a win for one female is a win for all of us.
What are your plans for your future career?
I want to continue growing and evolving while appreciating where I am in my journey. It’s hard to feel “satisfied” in this business. You tend to look for what’s next. I’ve found that you’ll always be looking for the next step, and life will pass you by if you have that mindset. It’s necessary to enjoy the journey and process. Enjoy working to achieve your goals as much as reaching them. There will always be another goal after that.