40. Teaching the craft with Bill Roth, the voice of the Virginia Tech Hokies

Bill Roth is the longtime voice of the Virginia Tech Hokies, and now leads many sports media and analytic students at Virginia Tech, as well.

Episode Overview

A conversation with Bill Roth, Voice of the Virginia Tech Hokies, about his career journey, teaching broadcasting, and insights into the craft of sports play-by-play.

Show Notes

[01:00] Early career decisions and path to broadcasting

• Discussion of athletic aspirations versus broadcasting career

• Early exposure to high-level baseball and career direction

[02:16] Virginia Tech's sports media program

• Overview of ACC Network operations at Virginia Tech

• Student involvement in technical and on-air roles

• Creating opportunities for hands-on experience

[03:41] Evolution of student broadcasters

• Modern students' advanced technical capabilities

• Importance of fundamental skills like grammar

• Balancing technical courses with practical experience

[05:57] Academic performance versus practical experience

• Discussion of GPA versus hands-on broadcasting experience

• Importance of being well-rounded and knowledgeable

[07:57] Keys to successful broadcasting

• Impact of team success on broadcaster recognition

• Building relationships with local fan base

• Understanding your audience

[10:01] Different broadcasting styles and approaches

• Analysis of Kevin Harlan's descriptive style

• Discussion of Brent Musburger's storytelling approach

• Importance of developing personal style

[15:19] Essential broadcasting fundamentals

• Importance of time and score updates

• Strategy for resetting game information

• Managing audience turnover during broadcasts

[20:01] Pregame show preparation and execution

• Balancing local versus national broadcast approaches

• Incorporating sponsored elements

• Importance of personal stories and anecdotes

[27:47] Radio production challenges

• Differences between TV and radio resources

• Managing timing and technical elements

• Importance of thinking like a producer

[34:55] Career development and industry changes

• Evolution of broadcasting career paths

• Importance of being well-rounded

• Building relationships in the industry

[38:59] Striving for broadcasting excellence

• Self-critique and improvement

• Importance of preparation

• Managing technical challenges

[50:42] Career decisions and life balance

• Discussing UCLA experience

• Evolution of career priorities with age

• Finding the right fit professionally

Key Takeaways

• Broadcasting requires both technical skill and emotional intelligence

• Success comes from consistent preparation and attention to detail

• Career decisions should balance professional growth with personal happiness

• The importance of developing your own style while mastering fundamentals

• Continuing education and adaptation in the evolving media landscape

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