My name is Aaron Dodson, and I'm a journalist, writer and storyteller, with 10 years of professional experience and counting. My affinity for prose traces back to growing up in the Washington, D.C. area, and the memory of my Godfather gifting me my first-ever nonfiction book by local legendary sportswriter, John Feinstein. Ever since that moment, I've sought to hone my passion for telling stories.
I studied within the School of Journalism & Mass Communication at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, where I also worked for the student-led newspaper, The Daily Tar Heel. As a senior, I served as a men's basketball beat writer, and copy chief for the entire paper, before earning a degree in reporting, minor in history and certificate in sports communication. Post-graduation in 2015, I worked as an intern for the sports section of The Washington Post, after previously interning for The Baltimore Sun.
For 10 years, beginning in January 2016, I worked at ESPN (powered by The Walt Disney Co.), with the global sports media company's Black-led, culture-driven platform, Andscape (formerly known as The Undefeated until 2022). After starting as an assistant copy editor, I earned multiple promotions on my journey to becoming a full-time writer, specializing in longform, feature storytelling. I also made appearances across ESPN's digital and television programming, from SportsCenter to Outside the Lines and multiple YouTube video series.
From 2024 to 2026, I operated as a Senior Writer, primarily covering athlete endorsement deals, the global footwear industry and sneaker culture. I notably steered the concept and research behind an online database, launched on espn.com, cataloging every signature shoe in NBA and WNBA history. My written work includes feature and profile stories surrounding Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Giannis Antetokounmpo and A'ja Wilson.
Since my time with ESPN came to an end in March 2026, I've entered the landscape of freelance writing and editorial consultancy under my own content production business, AA Game Storytelling. If you're interested in connecting or working with me, feel free to reach out: byaarondodson@gmail.com.