Jessica Paquette is making a name for herself as a horse racing announcer at Parx Racing. How cool is that? Here at BettingLadies.com we want to know more about all the amazing women that work in the gambling and betting space so what better way to do so than an interview?
We had the chance to ask Jessica about her experience, her thoughts on the industry, and about what she thinks is needed to pave the way for the next generation of announcers.
Congratulations on your groundbreaking role as North America's only full-time racetrack announcer! How does it feel to shatter the glass ceiling in a predominantly male profession?
Jessica. I got where I am because other women paved the way in other areas of broadcasting. It is an honor, and one I do not take lightly, to get a chance to make the path forward easier for the next generation of women.
What do you see as the future of horse racing, and what role do you hope to play in shaping that future?
Jessica. The best I can hope for is to leave the sport a little better than it was when I started. I hope that I can show other women that they can pursue any career or role in the industry that they want. Representation matters - I never thought this was even a career option for me because when I was a kid, I did not see a woman doing this.
How do you handle both the positive and negative comments and opinions that come with being the only woman in your field? How do you maintain confidence and continue to strive for improvement?
Jessica. I would be lying if I said some of the criticism, vulgarity and downright cruelty has not bothered me. I am human and it is hard to resist reading some of the really negative stuff especially when it comes directly to you. A lot of the confidence is just faking it until it is true and I have tried to choose grace in response to the really ugly things.
Can you tell us about the valuable feedback and tips you've received from fellow announcers like Jason Beem, Travis Stone, and Kurt Becker? How have their insights helped you in your journey?
Jessica. There have been many announcers and friends who have been very generous with their time and advice. The best advice I got was actually a simple "Remember, you are not a chart caller". That was a pivotal "aha!" moment for me and helped me frame the task as more story-telling rather than narrating.
What are your thoughts on the importance of representation, especially for aspiring female race callers? How do you hope your role can inspire other women to pursue their dreams in this field?
Jessica. It is critically important. Growing up, I saw women in broadcasting and it was because of them that I could see myself in that role. Many of my fellow announcers grew up playing announcer as kids, imitating their heroes. I did not. I did not think that the announcer's booth was a place for a woman and it is important for me to change that for the next generation.
The most rewarding moment happened recently when an old friend brought her daughter to my booth and her daughter told me she wanted to be an announcer - it is important for her to see that she can.
How do you see the tide changing in sports broadcasting and the acceptance of women's voices in play-by-play roles? What do you think is driving this shift, and what challenges still remain?
Jessica. Brave women willing to take the arrows and be pioneers are driving this shift. In all areas of sport, these women are breaking barriers and slowly getting audiences more accustomed to a female voice.
Are there any specific challenges or barriers that you think female bettors may face in the horse racing industry? How can these obstacles be addressed to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment for women?
Jessica. I think that the racetrack can be an intimidating environment to anyone who is a novice, male or female. I think by improving the access to education - how to wager, how to handicap, etc - it makes for a more welcoming environment for everyone.
In your experience, what are some common misconceptions or stereotypes about female bettors in horse racing or sports betting? How would you debunk or challenge those misconceptions?
Jessica. I hate the notion that somehow things need to be dumbed down or pink-ified for a female audience. I find it patronizing at best case. Not all women want to go to the races for the fashion or the hats or the cocktails. And some do - and that is also okay. Everyone should be able to enjoy the sport however they want! But, there needs to be an appeal to the serious wagering audience of either gender.
How important do you think it is for the sports betting industry to cater to the needs and interests of female bettors? Are there any areas where you believe improvements can be made to make the experience more inclusive and enjoyable for women?
Jessica. I think the female audience is just as savvy, educated, and serious as their male counterparts and should be treated as such.
What do women want?
Jessica. Women want an equal seat at the table.
Val C. Martinez
Founder of BettingLadies.com
