Getting to know, Working with, and Speaking to Fox Sports Analyst: Rob Parker
“It’s a wonderful life to live, but it’s a life so many want to live. You have to figure out a way to make yourself different and separate yourself from the pack? ”.
Rob Parker reiterated and repeatedly referenced this when he spoke of and gave advice to me on topic of the sports journalism and broadcast industry. The industry, he says, is saturated with seemingly similar bandwagon content and lacks true creativity and pushback.
Parker’s recent book, If I’m Writing I’m Ripping, is reflective of his personality to not blindly adopt perspectives from the masses. The critical component in spewing “controversial” sports takes, he says, is crafting substantive arguments with solid facts. It’s the way to remain credible.
As journalists and analysts, if we don’t look at topics and issues from different perspectives and constantly question ideas, then we’re not doing our job diligently. In today’s digital era, evidently identical ideas and notions constantly disseminate and shower consumers.
Journalism in this light can easily become superficial. Consequently, Parker seeks and explores distinct positions. Thus, he has developed a contrarian reputation amongst the public, but it doesn’t bother him one bit.
To the public, he may be labeled as a “hater”, but the exact opposite is true. You know what the first thing so many individuals think of when they see Rob on the TV screen, social media, or even walking through the Fox Lot Cafeteria? “That’s the homie!”, said one barista.
Why? Well, it’s quite simple. No matter if you are on the janitorial staff, an everyday sports fan who recognizes him on the street, a server at Buffalo Wild Wings, or a barista at a cafe, Rob will always greet you with a smile, hug, and a joke.
In spending several mornings, afternoons, and evenings with Rob, this was the first consistent trait I noticed about his personality.
Rob doesn’t see himself as above the man next to him. This humble individuality really constructs the family he has come to know around him. A coworker at Fox described him as, “A true man of the people”.
Thus, when you really look at why the Odd Couple: with Chris and Rob has been so successful, the culmination of Rob’s personality is a substantial reason why.
Not only is Rob not afraid to “step on athletes’ toes” nor is he hesitant to go at his partner Chris, but Rob’s high regard and attitude towards the “everyday working woman and man” is a big reason why.
“Radio is different than TV in that it is very much about the people”, explained Rob. It’s what his listeners appreciate so much about the show.
Chris and Rob always want to hear what the people are thinking. They want different perspectives. No hard feelings, just in the name of argumentative competition. It’s not some facade or run through they’re obligated to do. It’s genuine conversation.
This genuine spirit is another trait he carries which differentiates him from several other broadcasters. It not only displayed in the sports takes he spouts, but it is exhibited in how he treats people. That is the essence of Rob Parker-the man and the sports analyst.
Be kind. Work hard. Be different.
