Erica has built an impressive career across journalism, television, and entertainment, working with powerhouse brands like FOX and CNN. Along the way, she found her way into the sports betting space where she could mix her on-air talent with a passion for sports and storytelling.
In this interview for BettingLadies, she shares the personal inspiration behind her journey, her approach to responsible betting, and her perspective on the growing role of women in sports media and gambling.
You have worked with so many great brands - FOX, CNN, etc - what first inspired you to move into the sports gambling space after working across journalism, TV, and entertainment?
Erica. My favorite uncle helped introduce me to sports betting, and I was inspired to dive into this part of the industry because of him.
Uncle James absolutely loved betting on the horses — especially out at Santa Anita Park in Southern California. But like me, football and basketball were two of his favorite sports. So I credit him with piquing my interest and teaching me the ropes enough that I was ultimately able to land a hosting gig on Kevin Pollak's This Week in Football — a sports show that incorporated betting. While that program predated the betting boom, it helped me learn how to navigate sports betting conversations as on-air talent.
When it comes to giving actual betting advice, how do you approach creating the weekly picks to keep them both educational and engaging? And do you track your bets?
Erica. A huge part of my brand is highlighting the importance of responsible betting, so that's always at the forefront of any picks I give. For example, I give my signature Pocket Change Picks, which essentially is my way of encouraging folks to wager using only the cash (or loose change) they have in their pockets.
Obviously, we don't have to take this literally, but the sentiment is that people should only bet what they can afford to lose comfortably.
As for my actual picks, I typically try to focus on at least one marquee event. Think, Caitlin Clark vs. Paige Bueckers, Eagles-Cowboys. I also incorporate brief explanations of betting terminology. And yes, I do track. I need to keep up with every penny of my pocket change!
What’s the biggest change you’ve seen in sports betting since you started, and how has it affected your work (if at all)?
Erica. Wow ... the biggest change I've seen is that it's legal now?! Because, look, when I started, it was not. My crew and I on This Week in Football were certainly pushing the envelope. In that regard, it's definitely affected my work.
Presently — unlike yesteryear — countless opportunities exist to talk betting on television and on mainstream platforms. That has not always been the case.
Is there a particular on-air segment or sports event that’s been especially unforgettable for you? Maybe even a big bet ;-)
Erica. My Dawgs beating the hell out of TCU 65-7 in the 2022 National Championship game ranks at the top of my list. I'm a University of Georgia alumna and die-hard Dawg who bleeds Red & Black, so just pump that game right into my veins.
Understand, too, that I live in Los Angeles and that game was right in my backyard at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. And get this. That was the second title in our back-to-back run, and I wasn't able to make it to Indianapolis the year before when we won it all. What were the chances that we'd run it back the following year AND in my city? How 'Bout Them Dawgs!
How do you choose the stories and themes for your projects in development?
Erica. I gravitate toward stories and themes that resonate with me on a personal level. Virtually every project I've ever produced or co-produced has a storyline that I can relate to.
Oftentimes, the projects I develop are loosely based on events from my life. Sometimes, I draw inspiration from my friends' lived experiences. Whether it's scripted, unscripted or sports, I need to feel genuinely connected to whatever I'm creating.
What guidance would you give women who want to break into sports betting or sports media?
Erica. Create your own content. From inception to the finish line. Make stuff that's yours. Even if you're working with a network or platform already, make sure you have an outlet that illustrates your creativity. It could be a newsletter, a TikTok series, a YouTube channel or all of the above. Dedicate time and energy to consistently posting, owning your voice and evolving your brand.
And this is what we ask all women we interview: what do women want in sports betting?
Erica. I believe that girls and women in sports betting (and sports in general) want to feel comfortable in these spaces. We want to feel like we can sit at the table without being demeaned because of gender. We want to actively participate in environments that foster curiosity without judgment. Girls want to have a good time, learn what these pluses and minuses mean and win some cash while doing it.
