Jemele Hill has carved an unparalleled path in media, evolving from her beginnings as a sports journalist to becoming a multimedia entrepreneur and cultural commentator.
With projects like Above the Fold for TNT Sports and Spolitics on iHeart Radio, Hill is pushing boundaries and sparking vital conversations on the intersections of sports, race, and politics.
The Detroit Comeback
Reflecting on her Detroit upbringing, Hill sees a city undergoing transformation.
“Detroit feels different now—it feels like the comeback is sustainable,” she shared. However, she expressed concern about gentrification threatening the city’s unique identity. “Detroit’s soul is in its people, and I hope that isn’t lost as it evolves.”
A Career in Reinvention
Hill’s career spans print journalism, TV, podcasts, and production, driven by her adaptability and a commitment to staying ahead in a shifting media landscape.
She candidly shared the challenges of leaving ESPN, navigating the uncertainty of entrepreneurship, and taking charge of her own brand.
“Storytelling is storytelling,” Hill explained. “Whether it’s a 1,000-word article or a docuseries, the essence is the same.”
Her work now includes narrating powerful documentaries like Shut Up and Dribble and serving as an executive producer on Spike Lee’s upcoming Colin Kaepernick documentary.
Sports and Politics: A Necessary Intersection
Hill has never shied away from the controversial blend of sports and politics.
“It’s impossible to separate sports from politics,” she said, pointing to issues like Title IX, taxpayer-funded stadiums, and Colin Kaepernick’s activism.
“Sports isn’t just about the game; it’s tied to broader social systems that shape equity and funding,” she noted, adding that her work aims to explore these issues with nuance.
Championing Mental Health and Representation
Hill’s recent projects also include the Netflix documentary Simone Biles Rising, which addresses the critical intersection of athletic greatness and mental health.
She stressed the importance of telling these stories to highlight the human struggles behind the triumphs.
Her upcoming ventures include a children’s book inspired by her memoir, Uphill: A Memoir, focused on empowering young readers with stories of inspiring women.
Impact and Legacy
Through her work, Jemele Hill continues to amplify untold stories and challenge societal norms.
From her Detroit roots to her groundbreaking media projects, Hill is not just narrating stories—she’s shaping the cultural dialogue.
