2016 Honoree

Michelle Beadle

Host, ESPN

“The issue that resonates most profoundly with me is the gender pay gap. A simple discussion concerning the income of strangers seems to make people cringe. Why? Whose dirty little secret are we keeping? Is their concern that the money will run dry if women are compensated justly? It’s absurd that while we, as women, have made considerable progress in a myriad of industries, we continue to earn less than our male counterparts. Those who’ve summited the mountain must fight for those on the way up.”

What socio-political women’s issue do you care about the most? Do you feel that women are typically presented fairly in the media? Why or why not?

The issue that resonates most profoundly with me is the gender pay gap. A simple discussion concerning the income of strangers seems to make people cringe. Why? Whose dirty little secret are we keeping? Is their concern that the money will run dry if women are compensated justly? It’s absurd that while we, as women, have made considerable progress in a myriad of industries, we continue to earn less than our male counterparts. Those who’ve summited the mountain must fight for those on the way up.

What specific aspect of women’s rights in the US could we change to set an example to the world?

This won’t be original, but we’re in the middle of a Presidential election that seeks to make history in appointing our first female President. No matter what side of the aisle you find yourself, one quick Google search proves were long overdue for a female leader when compared to our global peers.

Whatever profession you choose, do men see women as either a female rival with independence and strength, or someone inexperienced that needs to be managed, never as an equal? How do you show your male colleagues that you are an equal without stepping on their toes?

In the sports broadcasting industry, there are those who view me as an equal and those who do not. It’s that simple. Some will always see women in the business as less qualified or deserving of their resume. My purpose each day isn’t to convince those who subscribe to the latter mentality, but simply throw on the blinders and keep it moving.

Do you feel the extreme left and right wings of U.S. politics are destroying the United in United States, or is it just healthy debate? Should the financing of political campaigns be the controlled by an independent authority?

I don’t like the idea of silencing either political extreme, left or right, no matter how uncomfortable some of the ideology may leave me feeling. This new reality of “clickbait wins the days,” has made an already bizarre political year feel even more deflating. We operate in soundbites and 140 character information drops, and more often than not, the most polarizing characters garner the biggest spotlight.

What do you now know about yourself that you wish you knew ten/fifteen/twenty years ago? Do today’s young people face a bigger challenge than you did?

I’ve learned what I imagine most women in their 40s have learned: I’m comfortable in my own skin. The good, bad, and the ugly. My skin is thicker. My inability to put up with garbage is solid and I’m no longer interested in spending every waking hour ripping myself to shreds. Our parents were right: life IS too short.

Can you tell us about one of the biggest challenges in your life that you think helped you become the person you are today? What was your best decision to date? Worst decision?

I tend to have short term memory for a lot of the expected milestones in one’s life–deemed a flaw by some is a blessing by me. A particular day that stands out for me, was when a cameraman, prior to my second time ever trying to do television, pulled me aside and said, “be yourself.” His name is Eddie Ray Rodriguez, and with those two words he changed something in me that opened up doors I didn’t even know existed. The best thing I ever did was listen to that simple advice.

Who inspires you the most? If you could have dinner with anyone, living or dead, who would it be and why?

My mom is my biggest inspiration (how many others copied my answer?). She and I had opposite upbringings and paths in life. Her unconditional support allowed me to grow up with my sense of self and need to have an opinion on everything (blame her!). Each step I’ve taken in my career wouldn’t mean as much without the knowledge that I’m making she and my dad proud.

As for dinner with anyone? My best friend, Bonney. Anything else would involve small talk, to which I’m highly allergic.

If you were a superhero, what would your superpower be?

My superhero power would be flight, for purely selfish and fear-based reasons. Don’t believe me? Join me on a plane sometime.

Favorite: Book/writer? Song/singer? Movie/actor? Cuisine/dish?

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein.
Anything by 80’s hair bands–I’m looking at you, Bon Jovi.
Favorite movie changes with my moods. Right now: Goomies. Favorite actor: (for all the wrong reasons): George Clooney.
Favorite food: Italian, sushi, steak, ice cream, Mexican (I’m not obligated to give only one).