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Building Sports Media Connections With Jake Marsh

Jake Marsh is a play-by-play broadcaster and content creator, formerly part of Barstool Sports’ “Pardon My Take,” now working full-time in sports broadcasting for major national outlets. He has called games for ESPN, CBS, Peacock, and has built a large, loyal social media following, setting himself apart with unique sports content and memorable segments like the “score game.” Known for his versatility — ranging from behind-the-scenes editing for MLB Network to on-air roles — Jake credits his Syracuse education and creative approach for his rapid rise in the sports media industry. He brings a fun, energetic perspective to sports broadcasting, and is recognized for both his insightful analysis and entertaining predictions about the games and sports culture at large.

 

 

 

 

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

  • [0:26] Jake Marsh on the reality of sports media’s unconventional schedule
  • [1:17] Why authenticity sets you apart in broadcasting
  • [2:03] The importance of adaptability when covering multiple sports
  • [2:47] Behind the prep strategies top broadcasters rely on
  • [3:52] How to find compelling stories during slow game moments
  • [4:41] How Syracuse University jump-started Jake’s career in sports media
  • [7:05] Why relentless outreach is the key to breaking into the industry
  • [9:01] Jake’s most thrilling and memorable broadcasting moments
  • [14:02] How mastering editing skills elevates your broadcasting game
  • [15:03] Ways social media can supercharge your sports media journey

 

In this episode…

Breaking into sports media means late nights, fierce competition, and the constant pressure to stand out from the crowd. Navigating career changes, unpredictable schedules, and forging meaningful connections can be overwhelming for even the most passionate aspiring broadcasters. How do you not just survive, but truly thrive in such a demanding, ever-changing industry?

 

Play-by-play broadcaster Jake Marsh reveals how he overcame the unique challenges of sports media by staying true to himself and embracing versatility. From his early days at Syracuse — where he built experience on student radio and behind-the-scenes editing — to landing high-profile roles at Barstool and live broadcasting, Jake shares the importance of persistence and adaptability. He highlights the crucial role of preparation, research, and improvisation in delivering great broadcasts and making memorable moments, even when games go off-script. Jake also discusses the power of social media to differentiate your work, the importance of networking, and how kindness can carry you far in a relationship-driven business. Throughout, he shows how embracing feedback and always learning have been key to his ongoing growth.

 

In this episode of Beyond the Game with Hal, host Hal Steinberg sits down with Jake Marsh, a rising voice in sports broadcasting, to trace his journey from high school journalist to calling marquee events. Together, they discuss persistence, handling criticism, and building a personal brand in today’s digital world. From memorable game-day stories to tips on avoiding burnout, this conversation offers aspiring broadcasters and sports fans alike practical advice and inspiration.

 

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Quotable moments:

  • “I wouldn’t trade it for anything else because look what I get to do. It’s really, really cool.”
  • “No matter what, I was always myself. As long as I stuck by that, whatever was going to happen happened.”
  • “You don’t need everyone to respond. You just need one person to respond, and that could change everything, right?”
  • “Sports are supposed to be fun. You can be funny — it’s supposed to be entertaining. It’s sports.”
  • “The nicer you are to people, the better impression and reputation you’ll have — and that goes with anything in life.”

Action Steps:

  1. Embrace your unique voice and authenticity: Stay true to who you are to build a genuine presence and connect more deeply with your audience and colleagues.
  2. Be proactive in networking and outreach: Stay persistent in connecting with professionals — even when response rates are low — since one connection can shift your path.
  3. Prepare thoroughly and stay versatile: Master your preparation and embrace versatility so you can adapt, add value, and be ready for anything the industry sends your way.
  4. Accept feedback and seek continuous improvement: Use feedback to uncover blind spots and fuel your growth, accelerating your journey from novice to expert.
  5. Leverage social media to build your brand: Use digital platforms to showcase your work, grow a loyal following, and stand out in sports media or any competitive field.

 

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