35 under 35
Sami Kincaid Beta Lambda - University of Tennessee/Knoxville
Producer, Country Nights Live
Which of the Delta Zeta shared values resonates with you the most? Community
Can you share a brief 5-7 sentence biography about yourself, highlight key moments in your career that have shaped who you are today?
I was born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, and it was here that my path to broadcasting began. During my senior year of high school, something happened that would unknowingly shape my future: our neighborhood was about to take down the basketball goals. At the time, it was the largest neighborhood in Nashville, and news stations showed up to cover the HOA meeting where teenagers, including myself, were passionately advocating to keep the hoops. I spoke on behalf of the group, and afterward, I received numerous compliments on my ability to speak confidently on camera. That was the turning point. In that moment, I realized that my future wasn’t in marine biology, as I had originally planned (thank goodness, since I’m terrified of deep water). Instead, I knew I was meant for sports broadcasting.
Throughout my career there have been many meaningful moments, but nothing has been more transformative than the birth of my daughter. She’s now two years old, and she brings an immeasurable amount of joy to my life. Being a single mom has its challenges, but she has given me an incredible sense of purpose. Every day, I strive to show her that she can achieve anything she sets her mind to, at any level. I hope that, as she grows, she’ll see me as an inspiration to chase her dreams. It’s a powerful reminder that you really can have it all.
Who has been an invaluable mentor for your professional career? What did you learn from this friendship?
Link Hudson has been an invaluable mentor throughout my entire professional career. During my time as a student at The University of Tennessee, Link tried to recruit me multiple times, but I was determined to work at one of the local TV stations. Looking back, I’m so grateful that after I graduated, I finally took the opportunity to join him in the university’s Athletic Department’s video team.
Link is an exceptional storyteller, and his ability to capture the essence of a story is unparalleled. In an industry that often gets caught up in the allure of being on camera, he always emphasized the heart of any piece lies in its storytelling. One of the most impactful lessons I learned from him was the importance of listening. For a year, he had me help others tell their stories using only the audio I gathered from interviews — no on-camera appearances, no voiceovers, just the pure, authentic sounds from the subject. This approach forced me to truly focus on what the interviewee wanted to say, not what I expected them to say. It taught me to be a better listener and to ensure that the story I told was shaped by the subject’s voice, not my narrative. This experience fundamentally changed how I approach storytelling, making me far more empathetic and intentional in my work.
How did you discover your passion and what opportunities have helped shape your curiosity for what you do?
I discovered my passion for broadcasting through the simple yet powerful act of storytelling. Early on, I realized that I was drawn to the ability to share people’s experiences in a way that resonates with others. Being able to capture a person’s unique perspectives, emotions and experiences is the most fulfilling part of my work. It’s about more than just presenting facts; it’s about giving a voice to others and connecting with an audience on a deeper level.
What has helped shape my curiosity and passion for broadcasting is my commitment to continually learning and improving my craft. The media landscape is constantly changing, and I’ve always believed that to stay at the top of my game, I need to remain curious and open to new techniques and technologies. Whether it’s exploring new storytelling methods, mastering new equipment, or staying informed about industry trends, the process of learning keeps the job interesting and fuels my passion for what I do. Each day presents a new opportunity to grow, which makes every project exciting and fulfilling.
Looking ahead in your career, how do you envision continuing to incorporate generosity into your leadership style and professional endeavors?
Looking ahead in my career, I envision continuing to incorporate generosity by prioritizing mentorship and supporting others in their growth. Just as I’ve benefited from the guidance of mentors throughout my journey, I aim to share my knowledge and experiences to help others succeed. Whether it’s offering advice, providing opportunities to learn, or simply being a supportive presence, I believe that generosity in leadership not only strengthens teams but also fosters a culture of collaboration and mutual growth.
How has your community helped you professionally? Is there a friend (or Delta Zeta sister) that has been behind you every step of the way on your career journey?
My community has played a vital role in my professional development, providing the guidance and support necessary to succeed. One person who has been particularly influential in this journey is my Delta Zeta sister, Dani Dyer. Throughout our careers, we have consistently supported each other’s professional growth, offered advice, shared opportunities and celebrated milestones. Our shared commitment to empowering women is a driving force behind our mutual support. Dani and I both recognize the importance of lifting each other up in our respective fields, and it’s been inspiring to collaborate with someone who shares similar values. Following the success of each other’s careers has been a rewarding experience, and our partnership continues to motivate us both to excel professionally.
What does empowerment mean to you, and how have you worked to empower others in your career or personal life?
Empowerment, to me, means giving others the confidence, tools, and support they need to take control of their growth and success. In the context of broadcasting and interviewing, it’s about creating an environment where the person being interviewed feels comfortable and confident enough to share their authentic story. I’ve worked to empower others by ensuring that I’m actively listening, asking thoughtful questions and giving them the space to express themselves fully. By making them feel heard and respected, I believe I can help them articulate their thoughts in a way that brings out their best. Whether it’s guiding a colleague through a tough on-camera moment or encouraging someone to share their experiences more openly, I see empowerment as a way to unlock deeper, more meaningful connections in the stories we tell.
What does it mean to you to create an environment of belonging for others, and how do you carry that lesson into your personal and professional life?
Creating an environment of belonging is about cultivating a space where people feel valued for who they truly are, without fear of judgment or exclusion. In broadcasting and interviewing, this means creating a setting where the individuals I work with feel comfortable being vulnerable and sharing their authentic stories. By actively listening and respecting their experiences, I can tell their stories in a way that highlights their uniqueness while connecting with others. As a leader, I believe it’s essential to foster an atmosphere where people feel empowered to share their ideas, contribute to the conversation and feel seen for their strengths. I carry this lesson into my personal and professional life by making sure that the communities I’m part of — whether in the workplace, among friends, or within my family — are places where everyone feels like they truly belong. It’s about building relationships rooted in trust and support, where people know they are not only welcomed but essential to the collective success of the group.