Big Dreams Need Big Moves

Today, we’re diving into something big: audacity. You know, that bold energy it takes to go after what you really want in life.

Anne Marie Anderson—a three-time Emmy-winning broadcaster, keynote speaker, and author, has covered everything from six Olympic Games to the Super Bowl and is one of the most experienced female play-by-play announcers out there. Her book, Cultivating Audacity, is all about pushing past fear to chase success. So let’s get into it.

From ESPN Long Shot to 36-Year Career

Anne Marie’s story kicks off with rejection—and a whole lot of guts. Sports were a part of her life growing up (having four older brothers will do that), and when she got the shot to interview at ESPN, she thought it was her big break. Spoiler alert: she didn’t nail the interview.

Instead of letting that be the end, she wrote a letter—yep, a good old-fashioned letter—asking for another chance. That bold move landed her a six-month gig that turned into a 36-year career. That’s audacity in action.

What Audacity Really Means

To Anne Marie, being audacious isn’t just about taking risks—it’s about going for it even when you’re scared or desperate. She was 21, broke, and about to move back in with her parents. Her boldness came from a real need to make something happen. Most of us talk ourselves out of big moves because we’re scared to hear “no.” But if you don’t ask, the answer is already no.

The Real Side of Sports Journalism

People think sports journalism is all bright lights and game-day glory—but Anne Marie quickly learned it’s a lot more complex. At ESPN, she became known for handling tough, sensitive stories—like the O.J. Simpson trial. That experience showed her that storytelling in sports often goes way deeper than scores and stats.

Fear and the Inner Critic

Fear is real. Whether you’re a journalist, athlete, or entrepreneur—it doesn’t matter. It’s not about getting rid of fear; it’s about acting with it. Anne Marie’s first live TV hit was terrifying, but she did it anyway. Her advice? Feel the fear, and take the step anyway.

And with social media, criticism can come from all angles. She recommends creating your personal “front row”—those ride-or-die people who cheer you on, even when things get tough.

Time, Money, and That Nagging Voice in Your Head

According to Anne Marie, four things typically hold us back: fear, time, money, and that inner critic.

• On money: a lot of us carry weird money stories from childhood. But money is just energy. It’s a tool. It can buy back time and help you grow.

• On time: stop confusing “urgent” with “important.” Anne Marie says you have to make room for the things that matter—otherwise, your dreams will always take a backseat.

• On the inner critic: Give that voice a name. Anne Marie calls hers “Jerry.” That way, when those self-doubts creep in, you can say, “Not today, Jerry.”

Growing Your Audacity Muscle

Audacity isn’t just something you have—it’s something you build. Step one? Optimism. Not toxic positivity, but the belief that no matter what happens, you’ll be okay. Step two? Take bold action. Step outside your comfort zone and go for it, even if you fall flat. The win is in the doing.

The Highs, the Lows, and the Lessons

Sure, Anne Marie’s got Emmys, but what sticks with her the most are the people, the impact, and the journey. Reporting on hard stories gave her a deeper sense of responsibility and empathy—skills just as valuable as a great play-by-play call.

One Simple Daily Habit

Anne Marie’s also big on self-care. Her go-to? A “good things” jar. Every day, she writes down something positive—big or small—and adds it to the jar. It’s a small habit that helps her focus on gratitude and keep perspective.

Final Thoughts

If you take one thing from Anne Marie’s story, let it be this: audacity changes everything. Get comfortable being uncomfortable. Take the bold step. Chase the dream—even when it feels scary.

Want to learn more? Grab the first chapter of Anne Marie’s book at annemarieanderson.com and follow her at @AnnMarieAndersonTV on Instagram.

Let’s go win—and let’s do it boldly.