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48. How Danny Reed made his debut on Westwood One
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48. How Danny Reed made his debut on Westwood One

After a decade as the voice of Georgia Southern, Reed got his call up to the national stage for this year's March Madness

Today’s guest on the PXPU Podcast is Danny Reed, the voice of the Georgia Southern Eagles who made his Westwood One debut this March. In this conversation, we discuss:

  • (01:26) The value of grinding for a decade: Danny's opportunity with Westwood One came after years of doing stats work

  • (04:06) Early passion matters: Danny was mimicking broadcasters as a child, showing how early interests can shape careers

  • (05:32) Finding mentors: Local radio professionals provided Danny opportunities to learn broadcasting basics

  • (06:40) Education pathways: Specialized sports broadcasting education combined with playing experience

  • (09:42) Network building: Relationships developed while at The Citadel eventually led to Georgia Southern opportunity

  • (16:17) Player perspective: How playing experience helps understand and communicate what athletes experience

  • (18:19) Balance fan/professional: How to navigate being passionate about a team while maintaining professionalism

  • (22:30) Embrace unexpected roles: Sales experience in minor league baseball built transferable career skills

  • (31:25) Sideline value: Using sideline reporting experience to develop play-by-play skills and perspective

  • (34:47) Always prepare thoroughly: Even when doing stats or sideline work, prepare as if calling the game

  • (37:06) Polite persistence: Maintaining professional contact with industry leaders over 11 years led to opportunity

  • (42:35) Take feedback: Being open to critique and making adjustments based on industry feedback

  • (44:14) Stay ready: Technical delays and unexpected circumstances will happen; adaptability is crucial

  • (48:06) Never peak: Approach each opportunity with the mindset that your best work is still ahead of you

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