Marty Smith is a 48-year-old American sports journalist, TV host, and author known for his engaging storytelling and deep passion for sports. He has built a successful career covering major sporting events, particularly NASCAR, college football, and other ESPN features.
In addition to his personal life, Marty is married to Lainie Smith and together they have three kids Vivian, Cambron, and Mia. His dedication to both his work and loved ones has made him one of the most respected figures in sports media today.
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Who is Marty Smith?
Marty Smith is a well-known sports journalist, television host, and author who has gained widespread recognition for his engaging storytelling and deep connections with athletes.
He is best known for his work at ESPN, where he has covered major sporting events, including NASCAR, college football, and basketball. With a charismatic and relatable personality, Marty has become a fan-favorite sports reporter.
In 2006, he joined ESPN, where he expanded his coverage beyond racing and started reporting on a variety of sports. Over the years, he has contributed to SportsCenter, College GameDay, and SEC Network.
Beyond his reporting, Smith has ventured into television hosting and podcasting. He launched Marty Smith’s America, a program that featured in-depth interviews with sports legends such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Tim Tebow, and Cam Newton.
He also co-hosts Marty & McGee, a popular ESPN Radio and SEC Network show alongside Ryan McGee, where they discuss college football, racing, and southern sports culture. His ability to tell compelling stories has made him a respected figure in sports journalism.
In addition to his broadcasting career, Smith is a published author. He wrote the New York Times bestseller Never Settle: Sports, Family, and the American Soul. He later published Sideline CEO: Leadership Principles from Championship Coaches.
Through his journalism, books, and television presence, Smith has built a lasting impact on the world of sports media.
Early Life of Marty Smith
Marty Smith was born on April 15, 1976, in Virginia, United States. He holds American nationality and grew up in a small-town environment that shaped his love for sports and storytelling.
From a young age, he developed a passion for athletics, particularly football, basketball, and NASCAR racing. His early experiences with sports would later influence his career in journalism, where he became known for his deep insights and engaging storytelling.
Marty Smith is of Caucasian ethnicity and was raised in a close-knit community where sports played a central role. His upbringing in Virginia allowed him to immerse himself in local athletics.
For his education, Marty attended Giles High School, where he was a talented football player. In 1993, he was part of the state championship-winning football team, which further fueled his love for sports.
After high school, he initially enrolled at Carson-Newman University but later transferred to Radford University. While at Radford, he attempted to join the baseball team as a walk-on but was cut from the roster.
Despite this setback, he remained committed to his education and graduated in 1998. His time in college helped him develop his writing and reporting skills.
Marty Smith Parents & Siblings
Marty Smith was born to Leo Smith and Joy Massey Smith in Virginia, United States. His parents played a significant role in shaping his values and work ethic. His father, Leo Smith, passed away in 2008. His loss left a lasting impact on Marty’s life.
His mother, Joy Massey Smith, battled cancer and sadly passed away in 1998. Despite their loss, Marty continues to honor their memory by sharing stories about them and crediting them for his success and determination.
He often reflects on the lessons they taught him, which have guided him throughout his career and personal life. Marty has often referred to NASCAR legend Davey Allison as his brother and childhood hero, though they were not biologically related.
Davey Allison was a highly respected race car driver, known for his incredible skills and contributions to NASCAR. Marty deeply admired him growing up and considered him a personal inspiration.
However, Davey tragically passed away in a plane crash on July 13, 1993, at just 32 years old. His influence on Marty’s passion for motor racing and sports journalism remains significant, and Marty has spoken about him with great admiration over the years.
In recognition of his legacy, Davey Allison was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame, further cementing his place in racing history. While Marty Smith has not publicly spoken much about having biological siblings.
His love for sports and admiration for racing legends have shaped his journey. His deep connection to his family, both biological and those he considers like family, has played a crucial role in his personal and professional life.
Marty Smith Age
Marty Smith is 48 years old as of 2024 because he came into the world on April 15, 1978, in Virginia, United States. According to his birthday, he falls under the Aries zodiac sign.
Professional Journey
Marty Smith began his career while still in college, working for The Roanoke Times. He covered high school sports and the New River Valley Speedway where he gains valuable experience as a sports reporter.
His talent quickly gained attention, and The Washington Post assigned him as a beat writer for Virginia Tech football during his senior year. After graduating, he joined The News & Advance, where he expanded his reporting to basketball.
Joining NASCAR and ESPN
In 1999, Marty Smith took a major step in his career when he joined NASCAR as a Senior Writer. He provided in-depth coverage of racing events, drivers, and industry news. His work in motorsports led to new opportunities in television.
In 2006, he joined ESPN as a NASCAR reporter, covering races for SportsCenter, NASCAR Countdown, and NASCAR Now. Over time, he expanded beyond NASCAR to cover college football and other major sports. His energetic and engaging storytelling made him a well-known personality at ESPN.
Expanding into Hosting and Podcasts
In 2017, Marty Smith became the host of SportsCenter Presents: Marty Smith’s America, where he interviewed top athletes like Cristiano Ronaldo, Cam Newton, and Tim Tebow. His ability to connect with athletes on a personal level made the show a success.
He also covered Euro 2016, traveling to Iceland for ESPN’s tournament coverage. In addition to his work on television, Marty co-hosts the Marty & McGee podcast with Ryan McGee.
The podcast started as a small project but grew in popularity, leading to a regular ESPN Radio time slot in 2015 and a television version on the SEC Network in 2018.
Becoming a Bestselling Author
Beyond broadcasting, Marty Smith is also a successful author. In 2019, he published Never Settle: Sports, Family, and the American Soul, which became a New York Times Bestseller.
In 2023, he released his second book, Sideline CEO: Leadership Principles from Championship Coaches, focusing on leadership lessons from top sports coaches. His books showcase his deep understanding of sports and his ability to inspire readers with personal stories.
Throughout his career, Marty Smith has built a reputation as a trusted journalist, dynamic host, and passionate storyteller. His work in sports media continues to influence and entertain fans worldwide.
Marty Smith Books
Marty Smith has written the following books:
- Never Settle: Sports, Family, and the American Soul (2019)
- Sideline CEO: Leadership Principles from Championship Coaches (2023)
Marty Smith Net Worth
Marty Smith has an estimated net worth of $9 million as of 2025. He makes money through his work as a sports journalist, TV host, and podcast host.
In addition to broadcasting, Marty earns money from book sales and public speaking. His books, Never Settle and Sideline CEO, became bestsellers which also adding to his income.
He also speaks at events, conferences, and corporate meetings, where he shares insights on sports, leadership, and storytelling. His ability to connect with audiences has made him a popular speaker and author.
Marty Smith Wife and Children
Marty Smith is married to Lainie Smith, whom he met while attending Radford University. Their relationship began during their college years, and they have been together ever since.
Marty often expresses his deep appreciation for Lainie, crediting her for being a supportive partner throughout his demanding career in sports journalism. Despite his busy schedule, he makes sure to prioritize his family.
Marty and Lainie are proud parents of three children. They have a son named Vivian and two daughters, Cambron and Mia. As a devoted father, Marty cherishes every moment with his kids and often shares how much they mean to him.
He enjoys spending quality time with them, whether at home or during family outings. His role as a father is just as important to him as his career, and he strives to balance both with dedication and love.
Marty Smith Height and Weight
Marty Smith stands at height of 6 feet which is equal to 182 centimeters or 1.82 meters. His height complements his confident and energetic personality, which is evident in his on-screen appearances and interviews.
He maintains a fit and healthy physique, weighing around 75 kilograms which is equal to 165 pounds. His active lifestyle and passion for sports help him stay in good shape. Though he is often busy with work, he values fitness and overall well-being.
Marty has short brown hair and a well-groomed beard, which has become a signature part of his look.. He often dresses in casual yet professional attire which reflects his approachable and down-to-earth personality.
Social Media Presence
Marty Smith is active on social media, where he connects with fans and shares updates about his career and personal life. He has a strong presence on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, where he posts behind-the-scenes moments, interviews, sports insights, and family memories. His engaging and relatable content has earned him a loyal following.
Final Line
Finally, Marty Smith has built a successful career as a respected sports journalist, television host, and author. His passion for storytelling and deep connections with athletes have made him a well-known figure in sports media.
Through his work at ESPN, his popular shows, and his bestselling books, he continues to inspire and entertain fans. His dedication to sports and journalism has left a lasting impact.
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