47. Elise Woodward on being up for calling any sport in any role imaginable

Elise Woodward, pictured here interviewing Caitlin Clark on the Big Ten Network, is one of the most versatile broadcasters I’ve worked with in my 24-year career

Today’s guest on the PXPU Podcast is Elise Woodward. Elise has experience in all three major broadcasting roles - play-by-play, color analyst, and sideline reporting - across numerous sports. She shares insights on preparing for different sports, the mindset required for each broadcasting role, and how to conduct effective interviews.

Timestamped Show Notes

[02:26] Discussion about broadcasting multiple sports and the challenges of learning new ones.

[04:08] Elise on the importance of getting terminology right for different sports.

[06:15] How to prepare for broadcasting unfamiliar sports:

• Study the rule book

• Consult with sports information directors

• Talk to coaches to understand rosters and priorities

• Watch film on YouTube to recognize players

[09:06] The different preparation needs for play-by-play versus color analysis.

[11:48] Tips for learning sports rules quickly, including using AI and focusing on the most relevant sections.

[15:34] Elise's career progression: starting as a color analyst at age 23, then sideline reporting, and finally play-by-play.

[18:08] The different mindsets required for each broadcasting role:

• Play-by-play: Setting the tone and context

• Analyst: Explaining the "why" behind what happens

• Sideline reporter: Sharing what viewers can't see

[21:25] Differences between TV and radio sideline reporting.

[23:16] How to approach post-game interviews and meet interviewees at their emotional level.

[24:43] Building relationships with players and coaches before interviews.

[26:41] The challenge of interviewing frustrated coaches and not taking their emotions personally.

[29:45] The importance of respectful questioning rather than trying to create viral moments.

[31:09] How question phrasing can dramatically change an interview's tone.

[34:25] Tony shares a positive feedback from Coach DeBoer about interviewing approach.

[36:15] What to do as an analyst when you don't know "why" something happened.

[37:46] The value of silence in broadcasting, especially on TV.

[40:05] Handling unexpected broadcasting situations and last-minute role changes.

[41:24] Tips for not stepping on broadcasting partners' lines and managing timing:

• Communication before the game

• Timing guidelines for when to speak

• Keeping points succinct (10-second chunks)

[45:14] Broadcasters Elise admires, including Doris Burke and Rebecca Lobo.

[47:28] How working in all three broadcasting roles has improved her skills in each position.

Key Takeaways

1. Versatility is valuable in sports broadcasting - being able to work across different roles and sports expands career opportunities.

2. Preparation is critical, especially for unfamiliar sports:

   • Study rule books and terminology

   • Watch film to recognize players

   • Talk to coaches and SIDs

3. Each broadcasting role requires a different mindset:

   • Play-by-play: Setting context and game flow

   • Analyst: Explaining why things happen

   • Sideline: Sharing what viewers can't see

4. Effective interviewing comes from relationship building, respectful questioning, and meeting people at their emotional level.

5. Working as a team with your broadcasting partners requires understanding timing, knowing when to speak, and setting each other up for success.