In the inaugural episode of season 15 of Podward State, hosts Ally Eaton and Hannah Guidotti were joined by Penn State graduate and ESPN Vice President for Production Amanda Gifford Lockwood.

Gifford Lockwood shared her journey to Happy Valley and the Penn State people and programs that shaped her future. Gifford Lockwood graduated from Penn State in 2004 with dual bachelor’s degrees in elementary education and broadcast journalism.

She walked listeners through the day-to-day duties of her role at ESPN and the steps she took to get there. Gifford Lockwood talked about her love for college football and the “College GameDay” moments she’s experienced in her role.

Gifford Lockwood offered great advice for anyone looking to break into the sports industry and discover their passion. She highlighted the importance of work-life balance and the important role her family plays in her life.

You can catch the episode on Spotify and YouTube using the links below!

Podward State is an Onward State-produced podcast that releases episodes on Spotify and YouTube during Penn State’s fall and spring semesters. Each episode features discussions with guests about all things Penn State, including sports, news, student life, entertainment, and more.

This episode was dutifully produced by Onward State’s all-student staff, including…

Ally Eaton
Ryan Smith
Michael Siroty
Hannah Guidotti

Malea Nadeo
Karlee Ferger
Ella Wehmeyer
Maggie Alderisio
Ericka Apolskis

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