Initially, the only thing that mattered to me - I was too young to understand the politics of the day - was that there was a woman who was covering the NFL. I asked my mom if I could be a sportscaster when I grew up. My mom was an adventurous spirit herself. Much to my mom's credit, she said, "Yes, you can." It didn't matter to her that no other women were doing it at the time. It didn't matter to her that there was a double standard. It just mattered that her daughter had a dream and she was going to help her pursue that.

In most instances, at all costs, do NOT check a bag. Especially during the holiday season. You have more flexibility to switch flights, switch airlines or even leave the airport and get a rental car to drive to your next destination. If the airline has your bag, they also have you.

I have really tried my best to ignore any double standard. I can't control the expectations of other people. I can control my attitude and my energy, and that's always been very positive.

You always have to go for bigger and better things.

Don't be afraid to ask people 'why,' 'what if.' Don't be afraid to attack your career. Get in the game, don't stay on the sidelines.

I always knew I wanted to do it [broadcast]. I was always playing [sports] and I talked a lot too.

Every game is an away game. Sometimes its hard to keep up with real life.