No sports fan, especially those brought up on ESPN, would not have heard of Steven A. Smith. I personally am not a big fan of his loud, confrontational style but can’t ignore how impactful he is as a personality and thought I’d like to learn more about his life. Here are my takes:
- The book makes me appreciate his approach and dedication and place in the sports media landscape.
- Being so prolific in his takes, he’s going to make blunders and mistakes. These can get magnified and present a more opinionated viewpoints of Smith than it is in reality
- I find it interesting how little was said about his life partner. Does this show his priorities in life (Daughters, Work)
- Maturity to come to term with his father. Refusal to be bitter and to find things to learn
- Growing up, he wasn’t rich but had mentors and supporters at each stage, from mum, siblings, friends and coaches
- Value of hard work, experience to build reputation and taking the right chance at right time
- Being ambitious with purpose, built through honesty and integrity
- He learned to be more judivious with thoughts and more matured in his perspectives (see issues with Rice and Ohtani)
- Transformations he went through with his daughters in his life is relatable. It really focuses one’s attention
- Importance of team and brand building
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61273821-straight-shooter?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_16