Renowned sportscaster Erin Andrews grew up seeing a passion for sports modeled through her dad, Steven, an Emmy-winning investigative reporter. Now, inspired by that history, she brings the same level of dedication and commitment to her national coverage that athletes bring to their game.
Growing up, what did sports look like in your household, and how did that shape what felt possible for you?
Growing up, one of my favorite things to do was talk to my dad about sports. He’s a fantastic storyteller, and he would talk about players and coaches. I instantly fell in love with the storylines in sports.
Was there a moment when you saw a woman working in sports and thought, I could do that too?
The first memory I have of watching a woman in sports and wanting to be like her was seeing Hannah Storm cover the NBA on NBC. I was obsessed with the Boston Celtics, Michael Jordan, and Charles Barkley. I loved how she interacted with the guys and the access she had.
Why did you choose to study journalism, and what did that time teach you about the kind of career you wanted to build?
My dad was an investigative reporter for the local news station when I was growing up. His work was so interesting to me. I saw how much time and effort he put into his research and narration of the stories he covered, and I remember I was always so impressed. I knew combining the admiration and respect I had for my dad’s career with our shared passion for sports would be the right choice for me.
Your habit for meticulously preparing for broadcasts is well known. How did that mindset develop, and why has it been important throughout your career?
I’ve always admired the dedication and commitment athletes invest in their sport. They train hard, practice daily, and constantly develop their skills to be the best they can be. I want players to feel confident that I’m not only prepared, but that I’m also as devoted to the sport as they are.
As a woman working in a traditionally male-dominated field, what stands out to you about your experience?
As a sports broadcaster, entrepreneur, and mom, I’m passionate about using my platform to advocate for greater equity and visibility for women in sports and showing the world what women can achieve on and off the field. That’s one of the reasons I’m so excited about my partnership with Gerber. Together, we set out to redefine what game day can look like for families, especially moms who juggle so much. Through the Gerber Family-Friendly Restaurant Fund, we helped independent, family-owned bars and restaurants make their spaces more inclusive so that parents can enjoy the game without missing out on time with their little ones.
Today, what do you believe is most important for women in sports media as the industry continues to evolve?
I think self-assurance is very important for women in this industry, especially as it continues to evolve. The certainty to know you belong in these positions and spaces as much as anyone else, because if you’re not confident in your abilities, then why should someone else be?
In what ways do you see yourself using your platform to advocate for greater equity, visibility, and opportunity for women in sports?
One of the most important aspects of my job is using my platform to give others a voice. There are so many ways for women in this industry to ensure our voices are heard, and it starts with all of us listening and supporting one another.
