Blythe Whealy: The Power of Community and Connection

Blythe Whealy is not just good at connecting with people. She’s exceptionally good at connecting with people. 

Blythe is a Superconnector. Building, nurturing, and leveraging a broad and diverse network of relationships is second nature for her. 

Superconnectors act as bridges between individuals, groups, and industries. They can identify opportunities for their connections, foster collaborations, and share resources. 

In college, Blythe excelled in athletics– basketball, soccer, and track– she loved it all. So it was a natural step for her to combine her competitive edge, her love of sports, and her lifelong dream of being on camera. Blythe knew early on that broadcasting was her calling. 

Blythe ascribes her successful broadcasting career to many things: passion, perseverance, charisma, confidence, and, you guessed it, connections. 

Finding Her Voice

Blythe connected with her passion early in her college years at Bethel University, where she worked as an anchor for the school news show, interviewing guests and co-hosting a radio program. She also interned with KFAN’s “92Noon” show under the mentorship of Eric Nordquist and show host Paul Allen. Through their invaluable guidance, Blythe said, she honed her voice and gained the confidence to contribute on-air. 

“These early experiences solidified my love for broadcasting,” Blythe told TeamWomen. 

Her first role post-graduation with Bethel University’s soccer broadcast came by way of connection: Her collegiate soccer coach. From there, Blythe’s broadcast experience grew to local stations where she covered a variety of sports, including basketball, football, hockey, baseball, and more. Now, her impressive resume includes roles as a play-by-play announcer, color commentator, sideline reporter, and host of a sports highlight show.

The Role of Connections

Connections Blythe has fostered have shaped her entire career.

As her colleagues continued to connect her with more stations, she’s had the opportunity to cover high-profile events such as state tournaments, the internationally recognized USA CUP soccer tournament, and sports segments that aired on Channel 45. 

These experiences have connected her with industry professionals, opening doors to work with networks like ESPN, ABC, and TNT.

Expanding an On-Camera Presence

Blythe’s multifaceted on-camera career extends to the world of acting.

As a child, Blythe appeared in print ads and eventually expanded to commercials, modeling, and acting after signing with a talent agency.

She’s appeared in a national commercial for T-Mobile, and other commercials for brands like: Grand Casino, Lifetime Fitness, and Country Hearth Bread. Her film credits include roles in both feature and short films across genres spanning from drama to comedy to horror.

Blythe is also a talented host– she really does it all! She’s hosted videos for major music festivals like Rock Fest and Country Fest. She’s also hosted red carpet events for film festivals where she interviewed celebrities including Josh Duhamel, Terrence Howard, Eric Roberts, and Joel Hodgson.

A Partnership with TeamWomen

Perhaps one of the most pivotal connections of her career has been with TeamWomen. 

Blythe first attended TeamWomen as a guest and was blown away by how inspiring the event was for her and the others attending.

She was later asked to host the red carpet for the organization and she jumped at the offer. This opportunity became possible because of her connection with TeamWomen partner, Twin Cities Film Fest.

Twin Cities Fim Fest generously provides the red carpet for TeamWomen’s annual events.

For the last few years, Blythe has been the red carpet host for TeamWomen’s flagship events like the Leadership Conference, the Empower Gala, and the WaveMaker Awards. 

“I was captivated by the energy and empowerment that permeated the organization,” Blythe told TeamWomen. “When I was asked to host the red carpet for them, I knew it was a perfect opportunity to highlight not only the incredible events but also the organization’s mission of celebrating and supporting women. Working alongside TeamWomen has been an absolute joy. The organization’s commitment to creating meaningful connections and elevating women is evident in everything they do.”

Blythe feels comfortable in the spotlight and she loves helping others feel comfortable too. One of her favorite parts of the red carpet is the opportunity to elevate the women around her and share the stories of how they came to TeamWomen. 

“I always think about how the video from these events might be someone’s first introduction to TeamWomen,” Blythe said. “I’m always looking to help showcase the incredible stories that TeamWomen has created.  

The Power of Community and Connection

A standout moment in Blythe’s connection with TeamWomen was when Executive Director Katy Burke introduced her to her brother, Tom Burke, VP and General Manager of The CW Twin Cities Network. From this connection, Blythe secured a role as an on-camera talent for The CW.

Click to watch: One Tank Trip episode on The CW

Click to watch: Big Christmas Energy spot on The CW

“I attribute this opportunity to Katy and Tom’s generosity and belief in my abilities,” Blythe said. 

Through TeamWomen, Blythe has been fortunate to connect with stand-out women walking similar career paths, including fellow member Lea B. Olsen, a talented Minnesota Lynx and Timberwolves broadcaster.

“Her advice and kindness has been invaluable to me as I continue navigating the broadcasting industry,” Blythe told TeamWomen. 

TeamWomen has reinforced Blythe’s deep belief in the power of community and the truth that one conversation, one introduction, or one connection can genuinely change the trajectory of one career.

Blythe loves TeamWomen’s unwavering support and commitment to fostering an environment where women can rise together.

Learn more about Blythe here. Learn more about TeamWomen here.