Blonde Girl: Behind the Scenes
By Michele Eichstead
Blonde Girl: Behind the ScenesJun 30, 2020
Johnny Wunder :: Running As Fast As I Can
Johnny grew up in the west side of the country in a big baseball family. He was a club house kid after high school and in a weird way says he's always been behind the scenes in the sporting world. Being self taught in the film world and a golf equipment junkie has led him to the wonderful world of Callaway Golf as a Tour Content Manager by putting himself out there in different ways.
If we can learn anything from this interview it's that all paths are squiggly lines. Swirl that thumb around and press play because I can guarantee this conversation will have you wanting more!
Follow Johnny: https://www.instagram.com/johnny_wunder/
James Overstreet :: Activision ID
Some may say that James Oversttreet is a quiet, mysterious kinda photographer, the man behind the lens, but you'd be interested to know that he is a self taught photographer in the digital world and that he plays Call of Duty in this down time. Overstreet has been photographing for Bassmaster, ESPN Outdoors, Stihl Timbersports, Outdoor Channel and many more yet still finds time to enjoy the ride. Do yourself a favor and click that play button to catch up with the amazing human we all know on bass tour as JO.
And be sure to follow along to keep up with all the stellar shots of the season:
Facebook: James Overstreet
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outdoorshooter/
Isaiah Winter :: I Train the Gooses
Follow Isaiah HERE
Sebastian Curtain :: Opening Doors
Sebastian Curtain has been opening doors leaning in on things he really enjoys doing. A communication major from the University of Pittsburgh he landed an internship at ESPN Cleveland which opened many doors for him in the behind the scenes world of sports. Marketing and activations, sales, partnership branding and even driving an RV for Jimmy Hanlin and Natalie Gulbis and their show 18 Holes, Sebastian has seen it all and isn't done yet! Tee up that play button and tap in to hear all about his unique opportunities!
Follow along with Sebastian HERE
Dave Parfitt :: Zoology to Cinematography
Follow Dave here: @parfittprojects.
Hali Petrick :: Keep it Light, Keep it Fun
Follow Hali: @halipetrick
Shawn McIntosh :: Giving the Fans a Voice
Kick that GOAL and take a listen!
Follow Shawn and the Charlotte FC
Shawn: www.instagram.com/shawnmcintosh/
Charlotte FC: www.instagram.com/charlottefc/
Colton Heisey :: Full Time Bag
Follow Colton HERE
COMING SOON: High Rollers
Shannon Wheeler :: One Cream, One Suga
Slap that play button to hear this dude's story!
Be sure to follow along with Dude Lets Fish and DLF Creatives.
Instagram: Dude Lets Fish
DLF Creatives
YouTube: Dude Lets Fish - YouTube
Ryan Boornazian :: Never Be Satisfied
FOLLOW Ryan:
Instagram: @barstoolbooz
Barstool Sports
Shippy :: The Last Gem
Be sure to follow along with Shippy on his platforms below:
Instagram: @shippyspins
Twitter: Playoff Shippy
Justin Kimmel :: Professional Fishhead
Justin Kimmel is a man of many hats, rolling with the title Professional Fishhead these days, he assists the Bass University crew with every aspect of the educational business that you know and love. Bit with the fishing bug at an early age Justin knew he wanted to work in the fishing industry in some capacity. As an honor student he attended college for journalism, but this passion driven, dreamer wasn't sold on that career path until one trip changed everything. Click that play button to hear all the details and how he walked away from a GIANT!
FOLLOW:
Jenna Nobles :: Keep it One Hundred
SET, HUT, AND PRESS PLAY!
FOLLOW along with Jenna and her adventures here: Jenna Nobles (@jennaonobles)
Meredith Greenberg :: Invisible Injury
Athlete Concussion Foundation: Athlete Concussion (athleteconcussions.org)
Facebook Support Group
Ryan Von Rueden :: Easiest Day of the Week
Ryan Von Rueden is a former athlete with an exercise science degree who is utilizing his expertise to help NASCAR drivers, other athletes, and individuals reach their peak performance. Owner at Second 2 None Fitness Ryan uses a holistic approach when designing programs for the athletic and general population alike. Scientific backed programs focused on strength, power, speed, agility, conditioning, flexibility/mobility and sport specific/individualized needs assessment. Press that play button to receive some natural motivation!
Be sure to follow along with all of Second 2 None’s ventures and when you’re ready to reach your peak performance contact Ryan!
Lindsay Lovett :: Things Just Line Up
Lindsay Lovett says her path has never been a straight line, things have just lined up! As they have to get her to her current role at Power-Pole. This girl is absolutely stunning from the inside out. Lindsay is a former athlete and sticks to an active schedule so when she fell in love with working events, she knew this environment was for her. She credits networking for helping her obtain her current position but reminds herself you never know what the future will hold. What you might not know about this stunner is she hiked the Appalachian Trail, all 1,200+ miles over 177 days and much more that we cover in this episode!
FOLLOW Lindsay and all of her adventures: Powerpole On Tour Check out all that Power--Pole has to offer on their website power-pole.com and follow along with their social accounts HERE!
Dr. Lisa Waller :: The Loop Has Been Completed
Dr. Lisa Waller's first passion is education. Before taking on her current role she was obtaining her doctorate to educate other teachers to be teachers. She had no idea that her path would lead her to becoming the Director of Marketing for her family owned business, Falcon Bass Boats. With her PHD in education she excitedly took on the role and has grown to accept each challenge that has come her way, including navigating shows like the Bassmaster Classic and building the website. As a wife, a mother, and now a board member of the South Carolina Boating and Fishing Alliance it's safe to say Lisa's plate is full, however as you listen to her story you will hear the passion she exudes in each role she has. Tap that play button to learn more!
Follow along with Falcon Boats and the SCBFA Here:
Pat Renwick :: Lots of Beeps
This south-side Chicago rockstar has always had a passion for bass fishing and found, as he got older, it was his escape. Starting in the bass fishing industry at eight years old working fishing shows and as a field tester with Bagley Baits, he has certainly earned his keep in the industry. Though his journey hasn't always been positive and upbeat like his personality, Pat Renwick is the the ultimate Proper Bassin' Man. Be sure to catch him on Stray Casts every Wednesday night AND on episodes of Proper Bassin' Men dropping soon!
To hear his story slap DA BASS and press that play button.
Follow: Stray Casts
Follow: Proper Bassin' Men
Neil Paul :: Hey, This is Fun
If you work in the fishing industry at a professional or even at a local level in the south, when you think of Lake Hartwell I am sure you also think of Neil Paul. As the Executive Director at Visit Anderson Neil has learned to in his words 'sell what you have', but this isn't where Neil's story begins and being a face of this lake community isn't where he thought he would end up. From basketball coaching to tourism and fishing Neil has learned to grow where he has been planted. In addition to his role with Visit Anderson he is also the Co-Director at the High School Bass Class and has most recently picked up the hobby of being a Bassmaster Marshal. Press that play button to hear about his journey thus far!
Stay up to date with Neil here:
Halle Still: You Are A Closer
Halle Still is straight up rocking it. As a former athlete herself she knew she wanted to work in sports and always be able to have that game day feel in her life. After her sales internship with Iowa Cubs she knew that sales was the role she wanted to take. Through networking she was able to secure a role before graduating college with the Legends Hospitality team for the Dallas Cowboys. Fast forward about a year later and she is officially a Dallas Cowboys employee working with their Formation sales team at their headquarters. Halle is going to be a part of the Dallas Cowboys team for a long time to come!
Gwen Lytle :: A New Sense of Pride
Mrs. Gwen Lytle is more than just an amazing teacher, she's down for anything and when she's passionate about something it shows! Taking on the role as Pinckney High School's Bass Fishing Teams teacher liaison and manager she assists in communicating with the school's athletic department, makes sure the anglers are registered with their respective organizations, and even organizes the teams fundraisers, apparel and volunteers.
Learning from those around her, Gwen and her team have made the Pinckney High School Bass Fishing team a 'hot commodity' at the school and has given some of the team members a new sense of pride! There is much more to come from this fast growing high school bass fishing team including a trip to Nationals!
To see information on the Pinckney High School Bass Fishing Team check out the athletic department's website: https://pinckneypiratesathletics.com
If you or anyone you know wants to start a bass fishing team at the high school level and have questions, send us a message!
LakeSide Media :: One Thing Leads to Another
The LakeSide Media crew went from starring their very own in their work to starring NASCAR drivers, Super Bowl Champions, Politicians and other familiar faces. The team of Garrett Pace, Blake Pace and Kyle Stanley has been learning as they grow their brand and have no intentions of stopping. Always exploring and working through challenges we chat about acting, taking a leap of faith, how the team was built and a few of their favorite moments.
OH and did you know they started out making movies? I'm headed to the Wal Mart movie bin, BRB!
Be sure to follow their work and hit that play button to hear how it all!
Instagram: @lakesidemedianc
Facebook: LakeSide Media
YouTube: LakeSide Media
Nickey Norrish :: If We Had All The Money In The World
Nickey Norrish is passionate about her business, hockey, wine and charcuterie. Hockey has always been her calling and through personal growth and discovery she found her way to the NHL after a role in the Start Up world. Having confidence and knowing she could fill a void Player Partnerships was born! Nickey shares what it has taken to get to her current role, some behind the scenes hockey info and much more.
Click that PLAY button! This isn't one to skip!
PLAYER PARTNERSHIPS helps professional hockey players grow and monetize their social media presence. If you're a hockey player join Player Partnerships!
Instagram: Player Partnerships (@playerpartnerships)
Facebook: Player Partnerships - Home | Facebook
Breanna O'Leary :: Drive For Diversity
Crossfit addict, brunch aficionado and tire changer are just a few of the ways to describe this very humble, butt kicking chick. Only five other women have climbed the NASCAR pit wall and only two are from the Drive For Diversity program. Breanna O'Leary is one of those two. A former college athlete who was looking for her next challenge took an opportunity and hasn't looked in the rearview mirror since. She understands the impact she is making on the sport of NASCAR and hopes that her story inspires others to go out and do what they love.
Hit that PLAY button to hear Breanna's journey to the pits!
Follow Breanna: HERE
Recent Media:
Bill Taylor :: Fishing Has Been Good To Me
Bill Taylor is a class act! Those who work in the fishing industry know this man very well. He is a fixture in the behind the scenes at FLW and while we all agree this guy has more than earned his retirement, the tournament scene will not be the same without him when that day comes.
From a cork and bobber and cane pole to putting the first wrap on a tuck and boat Bill has seen and done it all in the professional fishing world.
As he says he wouldn't have done anything different and we certainly don't blame him. It seems fishing has been good to him. Take a listen to Bill's story, it's a goodie.
Sandon Wilson :: The Whole Nine Yards
Sandon Wilson is one of the OG's of social media influencers in the fishing industry outside of being a professional angler. From an idea to the page, Sandon put LunkerChasers on the map. We cover the whole nine yards of his story which includes some tough scenes, his weight loss journey, medical career dreams, naps and snacks.
PLUS he shares where he sees the LunkerChasers channel's and his fishing career going as the years progress.
Click that play button and make sure you're following along with LunkerChasers on all social platforms:
Facebook: LunkerChasers
Instagram: LunkerChasers
TikTok: MrLunkerChasers
Sara Neumore :: Spontaneous Choices
This incredibly talented woman took her skills and got to work. A former athletic trainer who was given the opportunity to change careers took it and ran with it (no pun intended).
As spontaneous as her choices may sound as you listen, you will discover that Sara Neumore has always trusted her gut.
She now creates branded clothing and other materials for small businesses, teams and anglers. Dressing her customers for success is now her passion.
I think we can all relate a little on how she is always exploring new ways to be the best version of herself in her personal and professional life. Take a listen!
For all your branding materials be sure to check out NuThreadz!
Facebook : NuThreadz
Instagram : NuThreadz
Becky Iaconelli :: Leaving Behind A Legacy
Becky Iaconelli is a BOSS! She is an inspiration to all, a fashion icon, a mom and the keeper of the Iaconelli keys. Growing up she had aspirations to work in the fashion industry, but once she landed a role it wasn't totally what she was looking for. Her side hustle lead her to meet someone, a guy, who would become a supportive partner in helping her create a dazzling enterprise.
She now holds several titles as President of Professional Edge Fishing, Board Member of The Ike Foundation, Advisor of Bass University and an asset to the Ike Live crew as tech support, chatter and fashionista.
When the runway lights go off Becky hopes she leaves behind a legacy and there is no doubt in my mind she already has. Be sure to follow along with all the whole Iaconelli ensemble below.
Baking with Becky Recipes HERE
Sami Kincaid :: Everything Happens For A Reason
Sami Kincaid says everything happens for a reason and when you listen to her story and how the pieces have fallen into place you will believe it too. Growing up as a sports lover, thanks to her dad, she has cheered competitively and played softball and thought her path may lead her to continue to play sports in college but after overcoming a setback she was given the opportunity to work a College Game Day and everything fell into place.
She has been challenged along to way but credits her challenges and support system to her drive and passion, which, shows, in her work by bringing out the best in others to obtain relatable stories to share with fans in her current role as a Senior Producer with UCF.
Sami not only works behind the camera but she can rock the mic in front of it! Click that play button to hear her story!
Follow Sami's adventures on Instagram
John Tate :: Hard Work Pays Off
John Tate has been behind the camera on some of the biggest, baddest, most breathtaking hunts you will ever witness. From taking a risk sending a resume through the mail to Real Tree Outdoors into his current role, owning his own production company and producing the show Drop Zone, John has realized hard work does pay off.
Click that PLAY button because not only do we get to hear John's story but we chat about some 'back in the day' moments and I get John off topic to share some once in a lifetime moment stories.
Follow Drop Zone TV on Facebook and Instagram.
Don't miss NEW episodes of Drop Zone TV on Outdoor Channel.
Follow John's adventures on Instagram
Melinda Mize :: How Are You Going to Make a Difference
And as you will hear, most recently with everything going on in the world right now she has been able to take some down time to get back to her roots and find new ways to do just that, make a difference.
Follow Melinda HERE.
Clark Cox :: Staying in the Game
Clark Cox is keeping his love of sports alive through his career. Learning in college that he had a passion for not only agriculture but being on the other side of the field in athletics he was able to find the perfect balance. In his current role at University of South Carolina in facilities, sports turf and landscaping it's more than just grass, it's biology, player safety and sometimes Beyonce shows up and leaves you with a challenge.
Click that play button to hear about how fun grass can be and all the components that go along with it!
If you'd like to learn more about sports turf and more check out the Cultivating Roots Podcast.
Kurt Dove :: A Rambling of Inspiration
Kurt Dove is a unique guest to Blonde Girl :: Behind the Scenes as he is not only a professional bass angler but he also works behind the scenes in an impactful way with youth anglers at Pro-Bass Camp to not only share the love of bass fishing, but educate the campers on what it is like to be a competitor at a top tier level. He is also a co-host on the podcast Bass Edge Radio and used to have a Government job which we will just say was a secret agent for now.
Kurt shares what it's been like to achieve his goals. Knowing when to jump in with both feet, moving to another state to follow his dreams of becoming a professional angler to sharing his passion for fishing with clients during guide trips and the youth anglers whom we will one day know as competitors themselves.
Follow along with Kurt here:
Facebook : Kurt Dove Fishing
Instagram : @kurtdove.fishing
Get involved with Pro Bass Camp HERE
Tiffany McCall :: On The Road Again
Not only is Tiffany McCall a world traveler from her time on the road with Brandon Palaniuk she is a fitness maven, boss babe, gardener, expert multitasker and one who keeps the wheel's rolling throughout the season.
If you've ever wondered what it's like to be on the road with a full time professional bass angler you must listen to Tiffany's story which includes her day to day activities, how she fell into being on the road full time as well as bits + pieces of our friendship.
SHOP with Tiffany : Rodan + Fields
Follow along with Tiffany and Brandon's Adventures here:
Tiffany McCall on Instagram
Brandon Palaniuk on YouTube: BMP Fishing
Whitney Dobson :: It Just Happens
Whitney Dobson is one badass female who grew up with a passion for film but as life progressed she had to figure out how to make it into a career. With no intentions of working in the fishing industry as we discuss everything happens for a reason. She is learning and loving every minute of being part of the production team as an editor at Major League Fishing. Putting herself out there in every way possible to make sure she can learn from what she is doing knowing that when it happens, it just happens.
Set your DVR's and tune into Major League Fishing's All Angles to see Whitney's magic by clicking HERE!
Steve Wright :: I've Seen Some Sh*t
You may have seen this man wondering around BASS Elite or Opens tournaments with a small notebook and pen behind his back. He’s probably braving the weather, seeking shade or chatting with friends. Steve Wright, writer for bassmaster.com grew up in Batesville, Arkansas and thinks the name of his story should be titled “I’ve seen some sh*t!”
For those who know Steve, he’s got a point.
Shana Ramsey :: Confidence Goes a Long Way
Meet Shana. From the minute this beauty starts talking you can hear the confidence shine through. Shana Ramsey is the Sponsorship Marketing Manager at TH Marine however she learned the in's and out's of the fishing industry from her previous roles. As a college athlete and future super model there is nothing that is stopping Shana from accomplishing her goals.
Jared Kutil :: Outdoor Industry Resources
Jared has put a lot of hard work and passion into his career thus far. Over the years he noticed there wasn't a one-stop-shop for the outdoor industry. After lots of his own woe's and research he built Outdoor Occupations from the ground up, an online resource for everything in the outdoor world from jobs to news. There is much more to come from Jared as you will hear, Outdoor Occupations is just the start!
Plus he's not only a freshwater but a saltwater angler in a boat and in a kayak!
Find outdoor industry jobs here on Outdoor Occupations.com
Follow along with Jared's fishing journey on Instagram here.
Ron Wong :: Long Story Short
Find Ron on Outdoor with Larry Rea HERE
Facebook + Instagram
Brian Stockl :: The Answer to the Million Dollar Question
Have you ever wondered how “Brian the Carpenter” got his name?
Buckle up because you’re about to find out the answer to the million-dollar question that everyone is asking.
And in your spare time be sure to follow along with BTC's side gig at ikelive.com
Samantha Gay :: Breaking Stereotypes
Her grandmother taught her how to fish and her father is an avid outdoorsman. She has always loved the outdoors but never thought her life would take the twist it did. Take a listen to Samantha's story and be sure to follow this incredible young lady and the Fishers of Kids Angers Academy.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/fishersofkidsanglersacademy
Instagram: www.instagram.com/catchingfish_notfeelings/
Chris Brown :: Not the Rapper
Chris Brown not the rapper has denied Brandon Palaniuk sponsorship, dabbled in the hunting industry and most recently in his role with Anglers Channel has discovered his own podcasting voice.
Catch up with CB and the crew at anglerschannel.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/anglerschannel
Instagram: @anglerschannel
Kellie Olsen :: Nurse + Angler
Check it out!
Intro: Michele Eichstead
Blonde Girl Behind the Scenes will be an extension of Contendir. For those not familiar Condentir it was started by a friend as an outlet to share the stories of those who work behind the scenes of the fishing industry. They started as articles however with his blessing I have chosen to take it to another level and upgrade the articles to a podcast for easy listening.
This podcast is going to take you through stories of those faces we don’t normally see as the face of the industry.
Without further ado please allow me, Michele Eichstead your host to walk you through my story.