In this special edition of Larry and the Big Man, Larry Richert and Jay Caufield sit down with one of Pittsburgh’s most recognizable football voices, Mark Kaboly, for a conversation that goes far beyond Steelers headlines. From his roots in McKeesport to his rise through local journalism and onto one of the biggest sports platforms in America with The Pat McAfee Show, Kaboly shares the winding path that shaped his career and the lessons he learned along the way.
The episode opens with plenty of laughs, but quickly settles into a thoughtful and honest discussion about what it really takes to make it in sports media. Kaboly reflects on his early days, admitting that journalism was not always part of some master plan. Like many sports fans growing up, he dreamed of being the athlete, not the reporter. But once he realized playing days were behind him, he found another way to stay connected to the games he loved.
That journey was far from glamorous. Kaboly talks about the grind of covering high school sports, earning next to nothing, and putting in years of work before getting his opportunity to cover the Steelers full time. It is a reminder that in sports media, just like in sports themselves, success rarely comes overnight. Persistence, reliability, and a willingness to do the unglamorous work often matter just as much as talent.
One of the most compelling parts of the episode is Kaboly’s story about how he landed with Pat McAfee. After being let go by The Athletic, he received a call from McAfee almost immediately. That moment changed everything. Since joining McAfee’s orbit, Kaboly’s profile has grown well beyond Pittsburgh, leading to some surreal moments, including being recognized by strangers in airports and seeing giant cutouts of himself at College GameDay in Pittsburgh. Even so, Kaboly stays grounded and credits relationships, timing, and steady work for opening doors.
The conversation also dives into the changing landscape of sports media. Kaboly does not hold back when discussing how younger talent sometimes expects immediate access and visibility without first paying their dues. He emphasizes that the real foundation of the business is built in the grind, showing up, doing the work, and earning trust over time. For anyone trying to build a career in media, his perspective is both refreshing and brutally honest.
Of course, no appearance from Mark Kaboly would be complete without talking Steelers. The second half of the episode shifts into an in depth conversation about the team’s offseason, the coaching transition, and the changes happening inside the building. Kaboly explains that the Steelers feel noticeably different under new head coach Mike McCarthy. From the coaching staff to the front office energy, there is a fresh atmosphere around the organization.
Kaboly makes it clear that while he never fully bought into the idea that Mike Tomlin’s message had gone stale, there is no denying that a new voice has brought a different dynamic. He describes McCarthy as personable, likable, and authentic, pointing to his opening press conference as a major turning point for fans who may have been skeptical at first. According to Kaboly, McCarthy’s ability to connect with people and establish trust quickly could be a major asset moving forward.
Jay Caufield adds to that conversation by sharing his own impressions of McCarthy and the staff, noting the chemistry and continuity among the coaches. Kaboly agrees, defending McCarthy’s decision to bring in many familiar faces. In his view, trust matters, especially in a league where time is limited and there is no room for a slow adjustment period. If you are trying to build something quickly, surrounding yourself with people who already understand your expectations is not a weakness. It is smart leadership.
The discussion around coaching expands into a broader conversation about the NFL’s hiring trends. Kaboly and Caufield both question the league’s obsession with hiring young coordinators simply because they come from a popular coaching tree. Kaboly points out that while some of those hires work out, many do not, and that experience, preparation, and leadership still matter. In a league where respect inside the locker room is everything, players can tell very quickly whether a coach truly has command of the room.
That leads to one of the strongest themes of the entire episode: respect is earned through competence and work. Kaboly shares stories from his years around the Steelers that show just how quickly players can either buy into a coach or tune him out. The same principle applies in media, in sports, and in leadership. Titles alone do not earn respect. Results, preparation, and consistency do.
The episode wraps with a lightning round focused on the Steelers’ future. Kaboly gives a firm answer on Aaron Rodgers, saying he believes Rodgers will be in Pittsburgh and that he should be. In Kaboly’s view, if the Steelers are serious about winning right now, Rodgers gives them their best chance. He also weighs in on the NFL Draft, suggesting the team could target wide receiver in the first round, even though he would personally love to see them continue building in the trenches.
He also highlights some key questions on the left side of the offensive line, noting that while there are some promising pieces, there is still uncertainty heading into camp. It is classic Kaboly: informed, candid, and never trying to force hot takes where patience is needed.
This episode of Larry and the Big Man is more than just a Steelers conversation. It is a look at the grind behind a successful media career, the importance of relationships, and the constant evolution of one of Pittsburgh’s most important franchises. Mark Kaboly brings insight, honesty, and humour to every topic, making this a must listen for Steelers fans and anyone interested in the behind the scenes realities of sports media.
If you are a fan of Pittsburgh sports, media stories, and thoughtful football talk, this is an episode worth your time.
