Laura Okmin is a name synonymous with excellence, resilience, and authenticity in American sports broadcasting. With a career spanning over three decades, Okmin has not only reported on the biggest stages in sports but also empowered thousands of women to find their voices both on and off the camera. Her impact stretches beyond the microphone—into leadership, mentorship, speaking, coaching, and storytelling.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore Laura Okmin’s life, career, influence, and legacy in detail.
Who Is Laura Okmin?
Laura Okmin is an American sports journalist, television reporter, mentor, author, motivational speaker, and founder of the mentorship organization GALvanize. She has been one of the most recognizable faces and voices in NFL coverage for over two decades. Okmin gained prominence as a sideline reporter for the NFL on FOX and national radio broadcasts, becoming one of the longest-tenured broadcasters in the industry.
Notable Takeaway: Okmin is widely acknowledged as the third-longest-tenured sideline reporter in NFL history.
Early Life and Background
Childhood and Education
Laura Okmin was born on June 11, 1972 in Chicago, Illinois, USA. Growing up in a sports-loving family, she developed a deep passion for athletics at a young age. This passion eventually drove her to pursue a career in sports journalism.
She graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in Journalism, laying the foundation for her future career in broadcasting.
A Storied Career in Sports Broadcasting
Early Career
Laura Okmin began her broadcasting journey as a sports reporter and anchor in local television markets, including:
- Montgomery, Alabama
- Chattanooga, Tennessee
- SportsChannel Chicago covering the Chicago Bulls during their 1990s championship run
Her work in Chicago earned her recognition, including a Chicago Midwest Emmy Award for Outstanding Achievement in Sports coverage.
National Career with CNN and Fox
After establishing a strong foundation in local sports reporting:
- Okmin joined CNN Sports in 1997, anchoring and hosting major sports programs.
- In 2002, she joined FOX Sports Network (FSN) as a host, anchor, and sideline reporter.
Over her twenty-plus years at FOX:
- She reported on more than 20 Super Bowls.
- Covered Olympic Games, including London, Sochi, and Pyeongchang.
- Covered World Series, NBA Finals, NHL championships, and MLB All-Star Games.
Okmin’s presence on FOX’s NFL broadcasts made her a familiar voice to millions of fans. However, in 2025 she announced her departure from regular sideline duties to pursue other career ambitions.
GALvanize: A Movement for Women in Sports
What Is GALvanize?
Laura Okmin founded GALvanize, an organization dedicated to mentoring and empowering women across the sports world—on and off the camera.
GALvanize provides:
- Workshops and boot camps
- Networking events
- Leadership training
- Media coaching
The mission: build confidence, foster empowerment, and support meaningful connections among women working or aspiring to work in sports media.
Speaking, Coaching, and Influence
Laura Okmin is also a sought-after public speaker and communications coach. She speaks at corporate events, leadership conferences, and college campuses on topics such as:
- Authentic storytelling
- Building relationships (not contacts)
- Leadership and self-awareness
- Navigating the media landscape
- Empowering women in competitive fields
Her personal approach emphasizes connection, vulnerability, and authenticity.
Beyond Broadcasting
Author
Okmin authored a children’s book titled Mommy Has Cancer, inspired by her late mother. It reflects her commitment to storytelling that matters, beyond the sports arena.
Production Work
She also founded LO Productions, which created and executive-produced “PROfiles,” a series focused on telling the personal stories of NFL personalities.
Personal Life
Laura Okmin resides in Nashville, Tennessee, with her husband Michael Hagerty. Together they co-own Okerty Entertainment, producing scripted and unscripted content aligned with their values.
Impact & Legacy in Media
Laura Okmin is more than a reporter—she is:
- A trailblazer in sports journalism
- A mentor and voice for women in media
- A communication strategist for leaders and athletes
- A public speaker shaping authentic leadership
Okmin’s legacy isn’t just what she covered on the field; it’s the countless women she has inspired and supported off of it.
Key Achievements
| Category | Achievement |
|---|---|
| NFL Broadcasting | Reported over 20 Super Bowls |
| Olympic Coverage | Covered multiple Olympic Games |
| Women’s Mentorship | Founded GALvanize |
| Media Coaching | Works with athletes, coaches, executives |
| Authorship | Wrote “Mommy Has Cancer” |
| Production | Created the series “PROfiles” |
FAQs
Who is Laura Okmin?
Laura Okmin is an American sports journalist and media personality best known as an NFL sideline reporter for FOX Sports. She’s also a mentor, media consultant, and founder of GALvanize.
What is GALvanize?
GALvanize is an organization founded by Okmin that empowers women in sports media through mentoring, training, and networking opportunities.
How long did Laura Okmin work at FOX Sports?
Okmin worked at FOX Sports for over 23 years before stepping away in 2025 to pursue her work with GALvanize and other projects.
What major events has she covered?
Okmin covered more than 20 Super Bowls, multiple Olympic Games, NBA and NHL championships, and other major events throughout her career.
Does Laura Okmin still work in broadcasting?
Yes—while she stepped back from regular sideline duties, she continues to work in related broadcasting roles and focuses on coaching and mentorship.
Conclusion
Laura Okmin is more than a sports reporter—she is a voice of empowerment, authenticity, and leadership. From the NFL sidelines to company founder, mentor, and speaker, her journey embodies resilience, passion, and purpose.
Her continued work with GALvanize and coaching demonstrates that her influence will shape future leaders in sports and media for years to come. If you’re looking to learn from someone who blends experience with empathy, Laura Okmin is a name worth knowing.
