My City January 2023

MYSTORY

LEFT: VEDANT AT THE RECENT GREATER FLINT AREA SPORTS HALL OF FAME INDUCTION CEREMONY CONDUCTING AN INTERVIEW WHILE BEING RECORDED FOR SOCIAL MEDIA BY FATHER, VIPUL.

were in Atlanta covering the National College Football semifinal between LSU and Oklahoma and we found out that there was an NBA game in town. We went hotel to hotel trying to find where the teams were staying,” he continues. “Eventually, we learned where Milwaukee was staying and when we got there and entered the elevator, we ran into an associate of Giannis. Sometime later, we were able to conduct the in terview.” Vedant has also shown the ability to be flexible and creative when needed. During the pandemic, he kept Global Kid Media rolling by hosting his own virtual show featuring guests such as JJ Redick, Nate Burleson, quarterback Mark Sanchez, and others. Nearly all interviews have been memorable, but the one that stands out the most to both fa ther and son didn’t involve a celebrity at all. “We were interviewing athletes in the Special Olym pics,” says Vedant. “I was 12 at the time and the kids we talked to there were some of the best interviews I’ve ever had.There’s no contest.” After conducting so many interviews, you can say that Vedant is a veteran. For him, nowadays, it’s become a normal thing. “It isn’t an issue of being nervous,” he says. “I don’t feel like I’m out of my element. Everyone I talk to is a normal person and I strive to have a normal conversation.” “He is much more confident now,” says Vipul. “He researches hours beforehand and he surprises me because he always says something very experienced. He says really mature things. I am most proud of his confidence.”

PHOTO BY KATY KILDEE

“In this day and age, it is not possible to be without a platform to prove what you can do. Just get started and make it happen.” Vedant Gupta

such as the Pro Bowl, NASCAR Consumers Energy 400, NFL Training Camps and others. Each one offers numerous opportunities and just as many challenges, including the biggest challenge of gaining access. “I’m often denied access due to my age,” says Vedant. “Even when we are given access, we have trouble. I’ve had my phone confiscated by security and have been denied entrance to press conferences. Some times, we have to do it the hard way.”The hard way, as Vedant puts it, involves miles of patience and fortitude. “We have stood outside in the rain and the cold many times, just for a chance to speak with someone,” adds Vipul. While covering an NBA game, Vedant recalls how he succeeded in getting an interview with Milwau kee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo. “We

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