Welcome to Behind The Broadcast Booth with Sybil Wilkes, a new interview series that celebrates some of the industry’s most influential leaders behind the scenes in media, production, and cultural storytelling. In episode 4, Sybil is joined by Shasta Averyhardt, a professional golfer that is also immersed in golf consulting and work in the sports-media industry.

Hailing from Flint, MI, Averyhardt's love for golf began at seven years old as a hobby that was formed by her father's love for the sport. Once interested in pursuing an athletic career in volleyball, she ultimately chose golf as her future. After years of working on her game at a young age as well as through junior and amateur tournaments, Averyhardt decided to attend Jackson State University, an institution on the list of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)

With nine collegiate wins and four SWAC conference championships at the HBCU, she blossomed into a standout golfer with aspirations of making it to the professional ranks. Those dreams would come true as she turned professional on the LPGA Tour in 2011 as the fourth African-American woman to achieve this feat. Since then, Averyhardt has achieved seven professional wins, took home the 2012 LPGA Epson Tour Rising Star Award, and is a recognizable face at the US Women’s Open every year. Along with her playing career, she has become a voice in the golf community through media initiatives and by helping young females athletes harness their talent and skills.

In this conversation, Wilkins and Averyhardt discuss the beginnings of her career, how her time at Jackson State University significantly impacted her life, how her playing career has opened doors to mentoring the next generation of golfers, and much more.