Check out our interview with sports broadcaster Erin Coscarelli as she shares her journey to the top in a male-dominated industry, how she navigates her own mental health in a high pressure field, and how speaking up while being more vulnerable has helped her career.
Currently the host for the Las Vegas Raiders and the Tennis Channel, Erin’s served as a correspondent for “The Ultimate Surfer” on ABC alongside Kelly Slater, host of “The Fantasy Zone” for DirecTV, host of a morning show on NFL Network and more, covering everything from the Super Bowl to The Summer X Games.
Follow Erin on IG @erincoscarelli
Hi Erin, please tell us a little about you? Who has been the biggest influence on your life?
My parents. My dad worked in sales. He loved people and had the ability to make others around him so welcome and comfortable. My mom is the strongest person I know. She has such a big heart and always wants to help others.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Sensitive. Goofy. Outgoing.
Name one your strengths?
I hope I make others around me feel seen. I remember when I was an intern how I felt when people really saw me, made eye contact, remembered my name. I understand how important it is to include everyone.
What is the biggest highlight of your career so far?
Working at the Surf Ranch for four weeks while we were producing the Ultimate Surfer for ABC network. It was 100-degree heat. We were living in RVs and it was in the middle of the fields of central California during the pandemic. It was crazy but so epic!
Working alongside Kelly Slater and the incredible cast and crew, it was a project I never wanted to end. On our last day we all went surfing together. Kelly came over and helped me with my technique. The show was so much fun from beginning to end.
Where did you study?
I studied at USC. That was where I really embraced my love for both sports and storytelling.
What advice have you gotten from other female reporters and broadcasters?
I think we are entering a space where the audience really craves authenticity. How are you different? Lean into that. It’s okay to have an opinion. We don’t all have to agree. The best advice I received: The permission to be myself.
Did you always want to be a sports broadcaster and TV host?
No, this career 100% found me. A classmate in Spanish class asked if I wanted to cover the USC football team. I didn’t grow up thinking, “I want to be a sports broadcaster.” It just so happened that I loved people and sports — and the two passions merged when an opportunity presented itself.
What advice would you give someone else looking to have a career as a TV sports reporter and broadcaster?
Stay curious. I think that has always led to such a fulfilling career as a broadcaster. Everyone has a story to tell. Be open, inclusive and lift others up by inviting them to the table. I’ll always prioritize a place of work that cares about freedom of expression and inclusivity.
Who’s your favorite team?
USC Trojans. Fight on!
Name some athletes that are still on your bucket list to interview or work with?
I’m fascinated by the mental space of our pro athletes. We don’t realize how much pressure they feel to perform on such a lofty stage. I would love to really understand what went behind the decision for Tom Brady to return on his quest for an 8th championship. To deeply understand that these athletes are human just like us.
Do you get nervous?
Absolutely! It’s normal! Feeling that excitement or those butterflies, those are the things that keep you from getting complacent on the job.
Can you share an experience in your life when women supported other women and what you learned from it?
I remember while I was at USC, broadcaster Shelly Smith came up to me and offered me a job for ESPN radio. They were looking for a student reporter. I really appreciated that she did that. She really took a chance on me and saw an opportunity. I’ll never forget how she made me feel that day.
Now that the NFL season is over, what other projects are you working on?
So many things! One in particular is a podcast with three totally diverse women who work in the entertainment industry. It’s called ‘EntertainHer.’ I’m learning so much from them. It’s been fun to get in the podcast studio and share our truths. I’m not usually on the other side of the mic so it’s been terrifying and fun!
For you, who is the GOAT in tennis?
Serena Williams. She is a force and a trailblazer with what she has been able to accomplish in tennis.
If you were a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
When Life Throws Curveballs.
What do you think is the secret to having a successful social media account?
Stay authentic! I love when I see content creators remove the ‘filter’ from their lives and share it like it is!
As a popular personality, you are followed by so many people. How do you feel about that pressure of always doing the right thing, and encouraging people to follow their dreams?
I’ve always felt the pressure to do the right thing in general. It’s the negative criticism in your head constantly telling you that you are too this or too that. The pressure is never-ending. You are you and that’s perfectly okay.
How would you describe your fashion style?
California casual. I have a lot of flexibility in my closet. I love a good crop top with a long sleeve button down, high-waisted jeans and Chucks. But I do enjoy a nice night out with a cute pair of heels.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
That it’s okay to question the norm. The most powerful thing we have in this life is choice. And realizing how powerful being vulnerable actually is.
What music do you like?
When I was shooting Ultimate Surfer, I discovered an American indie pop band from Santa
Monica, California called Cayucas. I like indie, oldies, folk and classic rock.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
Robin Williams. He reminds me so much of my dad. He is my favorite comedian.
How would your best friend describe you?
I think my best friend would describe me as empathetic, collaborative, sensitive, self-deprecating and someone who roots for others. She’d also say I need to work on my organizational skills.
What is your favorite healthy food?
The kale salad from Kitchen Mouse in Highland Park — I can eat that every day.
And your favorite cheat food?
I’ll never turn down a thin-crust, well-done pepperoni pizza.
What are your makeup bag staples when traveling?
Drunk Elephant vitamin C moisturizer, Coola SPF hydrating spray, a good eye cream and a good brow gel, my Vegamour gro + serum and Chanel mascara.
3 things you can’t leave home without?
Chapstick, hair tie and water with chlorophyll from Sunrider.
Please list 3 designers who you like the most?
Madewell, Brandy Melville, Free People.
What’s your favorite quote?
“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” ― Maya Angelou.
What’s next for Erin Coscarelli in 2022?
Going through the personal struggles I’ve endured with losing my brother and my father in the span of a year has really taught me what’s important in life. I’m working on trying to slow down. Creating projects that really resonate with people. Prioritizing projects that really connect with people.
Idea of a perfect Sunday?
Relaxing by a pool with a good cocktail, great music and good friends.
Do you support any charity?
Susan G. Komen breast cancer foundation and The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
What do you think of Social Media?
I started unfollowing accounts that weren’t contributing to my overall emotional well-being and started following accounts rooted in personal development and self-help. You manifest what you pay attention to. One of my favorite accounts is the holistic psychologist. I think social media can be helpful when being intentional around it.
Where can our readers follow you?
Social media @erincoscarelli.
Song: “The Weight” by The Band.
Movie/TV Series: Being originally from Los Angeles, I’ve really enjoyed watching “Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty” on HBO lately. He created “Showtime.” I like a show that teaches you a little about history. The Lakers during that time were iconic.
Book: “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck” by Mark Maron.
Travel Destination: Hawaii is pure paradise.
Drink: Spicy margarita with a good mezcal.
