As part of my senior internship class, I started working as a Production Intern on Shaquille O’Neal’s podcast. I can’t believe I get to go to Shaq’s house every week with my dad and work with one of the Top 10 NBA players to ever live.
MEETING SHAQ: Meeting Shaq for the first time was so cool. He’s funny, and really nice. But he is also HUGE! I couldn’t believe how big his hands and feet are LOL! He immediately started joking with me, and calling me Little Bow Wow. I also met Shaq’s NBA on TNT, and The Big Podcast co-host Adam Lefkoe, as well as comedian Gary Owen whose first 105 podcast episodes were produced by my dad.
WHAT I AM LEARNING: So far, I have learned how to set up and test the microphones, cameras, lights, and other equipment needed to film the show. I would say the biggest lesson I’ve learned is DO NOT be a fan. Celebrities are regular people. Shaq told me that the best way to respect a person, is to not show them respect. I did not understand until my dad explained to me that it simply means, don’t put anyone on a pedestal. Treat them as your equal and, most of the time, they will respect you as a professional.
MY GOAL: I will be working on this podcast with Shaq until I leave for college in August 2024. My ultimate goal during this internship is to learn all I can about hosting and producing a sports shows. As an athlete, I have to think about my career once I am done playing basketball.
