Interview

Balancing Success and Passion...

By Hillary Latos

Are you ready to be captivated? Charly Arnolt is more than just a TV personality; she's a force to be reckoned with in the world of sports and beyond. Meet this charismatic and unreserved sportscaster with diverse talents who has seamlessly transitioned from her former role at ESPN to her current position as a host on OutKick, a national multimedia streaming platform. In addition to hosting, she also contributes to the Fox News Channel, and her brand-new show on OutKick is set to premiere this Fall. Charly's voice resonates with audiences on topics ranging from sports to politics, and she's not shy about sharing her unique perspectives. Yet, as our conversation reveals, Charly's intriguing persona extends far beyond her professional achievements.

Photography by Udo Spreitzenbarth

Shot on location at 77 Fifth Ave #PH54

Hair and Makeup by Johanna Marte for @ zuleikavieraproteam

Styled by Fashion Director Tanya Tauthong Kass

RM: Your career as a TV personality must be demanding. How do you find the equilibrium between your professional pursuits and personal connections?

CA: Achieving a balance between career and personal life has always been challenging. In my 20s, my career was everything to me. However, in 2020, right before COVID, I made a resolution to find a more balanced lifestyle. I even fled to Florida during the pandemic to recalibrate. And as I've grown, I've learned the importance of love, companionship, and personal connections. Even my dog Zorra has taught me about affection and care.

Finding life and love in the little daily things and looking forward to a solid relationship and future family life has taught me the value of balance. It’s about embracing life in all its dimensions and nurturing myself in the process. It's a continuous journey but one I'm committed to.

RM: Growing up as an only child with parents from different professional backgrounds, how has your family shaped the person and journalist you've become today?

CA: My family, though small, has profoundly influenced my life. I have always had a close relationship with both my parents, even though they are divorced. My father, an entrepreneur now, is a journalist by degree, while my mother is a speech pathologist. Put those two things together, and you get me—a broadcast journalist with a passion for communication!

RM: The transition to OutKick and Fox News must have been significant. Can you share what it's been like for you, breaking away from a sports-centric role?

CA: Transitioning to OutKick and Fox News has been liberating. The shift from talking strictly about sports to expressing opinions on various subjects feels like a breath of fresh air. The diversity in topics and the freedom to express my thoughts have been refreshing and energizing. I'm not just reading scripts but sharing my thoughts, feelings, and opinions. It's been an exhilarating journey that's made me feel alive and more myself.

RM: You've appeared on shows like Hannity and Gutfeld. What's the behind-the-scenes experience like? How do you find your voice on such dynamic platforms?

CA: Working with Sean Hannity and others at Fox has been fantastic. They’ve embraced my opinions and allowed me to flourish in areas ranging from politics to pop culture. I had a blast joining Gutfeld! It allowed me to draw on my experience with improv and stand-up comedy. Jesse Watters and the cast of Fox and Friends have also been delightful. The freedom to express myself and the opportunities provided have been gratifying and empowering.

RM: As someone who’s excelled both in interviewing others and being interviewed, what’s the thrill in each of these roles for you?

CA: I cherish both roles of being an interviewer and interviewee. Most of the time, I am the interviewer. As the interviewer, I love diving into people's stories, getting them to open up and share their thoughts and life. But being interviewed myself allows me to unlock parts of my own narrative. It's an enriching experience that opens up new avenues for growth and understanding. Whether I'm probing into someone's life or revealing my own thoughts, there's always something new to learn, something deep to uncover. It's a dance of empathy, curiosity, and connection that I thoroughly enjoy.

RM: Interviewing so many icons must be exhilarating! Who stands out as your favorite interview, and why?

CA: Interviewing Peyton Manning was a highlight for me. I’m from Indianapolis, he has always been “The Man” there, and as far as I’m concerned, he always will be. But I also find interviewing athletes in high-stakes situations fascinating. But it's the essence of capturing athletes in their raw, intense moments that excites me. From the regular season to playoffs, the transformation is intriguing. It's not just about the game; it's about the human spirit, focus, and the pursuit of excellence. The intensity and the drive they show at pivotal moments in their careers is absolutely captivating.

RM: From the WWE to the NBA and NFL, you've interviewed a diverse range of athletes. What distinguishes these experiences, and what have you discovered about greatness?

CA: Interviewing personalities across WWE, NBA, and NFL offers unique insights – each has its own vibe, its own truth. WWE’s scripted nature contrasts the unpredictable excitement of other sports, yet the common thread is greatness. Either way, a shared greatness among athletes shines through, and I've been fortunate to uncover those facets. Whether it's Stone Cold Steve Austin or an NBA or NFL star, their charisma, determination, and unique ‘something’ inspires me every day.

RM: Fitness, reading, food, music – your hobbies are varied! How do you unwind, and what passions fuel you outside of your career?

CA: Yes, unwinding for me is a mix of fitness, food, reading, and music. Each hobby tells a little story about who I am. I'm passionate about fitness; I even have my personal training certification. My fitness routine has evolved over the years. Right now, I love Pilates and walks with

Zorra. In my new role, I usually read the news, but, to relax, I love curling up with a good historical novel. I also love food. I’m big on trying new restaurants and attending wine tastings. I have always loved music; I used to play the violin, and now I’m eager to learn the piano. From working out to enjoying a great meal at one of my favorite restaurants, for me, it's really about enjoying life's simple pleasures and finding joy in the everyday.

RM: Living in a city like NYC, you must have some culinary gems nearby. Any favorite spots for a meal or drinks that you'd recommend?

CA: NYC has amazing and unique culinary spots like Hillstone, Cosme’s, and Eataly. Nubeluz on top of the Ritz Carlton Nomad is perfect for drinks with a view. Veronika in the Fotografiska Museum is also a favorite. These are just a few gems that add flavor to my life.

RM: Travel seems to be an essential part of who you are. Can you share some of your cherished destinations and what draws you to explore the world?

CA: I love traveling; it’s a source of enrichment for me. It's not just about the destinations but the experiences and memories I create. Whether basking in the Mediterranean sun or connecting with my Jewish ancestry in Poland, travel helps me rediscover myself. From Italy to Greece to France, each destination adds a unique chapter to my life's journey with new perspectives enriching my life in ways I can't even begin to describe.

With a bright future ahead, Charly continues to inspire and make her mark in the world of broadcasting. Her genuine approach to life and work serves as a reminder that it is possible to find harmony amidst the chaos of the limelight, making Charly Arnolt a true role model for aspiring broadcasters, fitness enthusiasts, travelers, and beyond.