Mina Kimes Biography: Age, Net Worth, Husband, Tattoos, Parents & Nationality (2025 Update)
Mina Kimes is an acclaimed American sports journalist, analyst, and podcast host, best known for her insightful NFL analysis on ESPN. Renowned for her sharp wit and deep understanding of sports, she has become a prominent voice in sports media, earning accolades for her work as a writer, television personality, and podcast host. Based in Los Angeles, Mina’s career has made her a role model for aspiring journalists nationwide.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Mina Mugil Kimes |
| Nickname | Mina |
| Profession | Sports Journalist, NFL Analyst, Podcast Host |
| Birth Date | September 8, 1985 |
| Age | 40 (as of October 2025) |
| Birth Place | Omaha, Nebraska, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Famous For | ESPN NFL Analysis, Writing, Podcasting |
| Known For | ESPN’s NFL Live, The Mina Kimes Show |
| Ethnicity | Korean-American |
| Zodiac Sign | Virgo |
| Height & Weight | 5 ft 4 in (163 cm), approx. 54 kg (119 lbs) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Education | Yale University (BA, English) |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Marital Status/Spouse | Married / Nick Sylvester |
| Children | 1 Son (born 2023) |
| Relatives | Parents: Winston Kimes (father), Sun-Min Kimes (mother) |
| Hobbies | Watching football, reading, traveling, podcasting, dog lover |
| Employer/Organization | ESPN |
| Years Active | 2007–present |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $3 million (2025) |
Early Life & Education
Mina Kimes was born on September 8, 1985, in Omaha, Nebraska, to a Korean mother and American father. Raised in a multicultural household, Mina’s upbringing was shaped by her family’s strong emphasis on education and curiosity. Her father, Winston Kimes, was a former Air Force captain, while her mother, Sun-Min Kimes, immigrated from South Korea. Mina attended Mesquite High School in Gilbert, Arizona, where she excelled academically and developed an early passion for writing and sports. She later graduated summa cum laude from Yale University in 2007 with a Bachelor’s degree in English.
Career Journey
Early Beginnings
Mina started her journalism career at Fortune Magazine as a business reporter, where her investigative work earned her several awards. Her unique storytelling and analytical skills quickly set her apart.
Breakthrough at Bloomberg and ESPN
- Joined Bloomberg News in 2013, contributing in-depth features and business profiles.
- In 2014, Mina transitioned to ESPN, initially as a feature writer covering sports business and NFL stories.
Rise as a Sports Media Star
- Became a regular panelist on ESPN’s Around the Horn and Highly Questionable.
- Launched the acclaimed The Mina Kimes Show featuring Lenny podcast, blending football analysis with humor.
- Named a full-time NFL analyst on ESPN’s NFL Live in 2020, making her one of the few women in such a role.
Recent Activity & Current Role
- Continues to appear on NFL Live, Debatable, and other ESPN programs.
- Frequent guest on sports podcasts and radio shows.
- Published essays and features in leading outlets, including ESPN The Magazine and Slate.
Career Highlights & Stats
- 15+ years in journalism
- Multiple journalism awards, including the Front Page Award
- Recognized as one of the most influential women in sports media (2022, 2024)
Personal Life
Mina Kimes is married to Nick Sylvester, a music producer and entrepreneur. The couple tied the knot in 2015 and welcomed their first child, a son, in 2023. Mina is passionate about animal welfare and is often seen sharing moments with her dog, Lenny, who is also the namesake of her podcast. She enjoys traveling, reading, and supporting community initiatives related to sports and education.
Awards & Achievements
- Front Page Award for business reporting (2010)
- National Headliner Award (2013)
- Multiple Sports Emmys as part of ESPN NFL Live team
- Named in Forbes’ “30 Under 30” (Media)
- Featured in The Athletic’s “Most Influential Women in Sports Media” (2022, 2024)
Physical Statistics
- Height: 5 ft 4 in (163 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 54 kg (119 lbs)
- Body Measurements: 34-25-34 inches (approx.)
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
- Hair Color: Black
- Shoe Size: US 7
- Sexuality: Straight
- Tattoo: Yes (notably, her dog Lenny’s face)
Quotes
“I’ve always believed that asking the right questions is more important than having all the answers.”
“Sports are about stories, and I’m lucky to help tell them.”
“Representation matters, especially in places where you’re not expected to be.”
Controversies
Mina Kimes has largely avoided major controversies. However, she has faced online criticism and social media trolling, which she has addressed with professionalism and advocacy for diversity and inclusion in sports media. Her candid responses to gender bias have sparked important conversations about representation in sports journalism.
Favorites
- Favorite Sport: Football (NFL)
- Favorite Team: Seattle Seahawks
- Favorite Food: Korean BBQ
- Favorite Book: “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
- Favorite Movie: “Remember the Titans”
- Favorite Podcast: The Mina Kimes Show featuring Lenny
Salary & Net Worth
As of 2025, Mina Kimes’ estimated net worth is $3 million. Her primary income comes from her ESPN analyst role, podcasting, writing, and speaking engagements. Industry reports suggest her annual salary at ESPN is in the range of $400,000–$600,000, with additional revenue from brand partnerships and media appearances.
Interesting Facts
- Mina has a tattoo of her beloved dog, Lenny, on her arm.
- She is fluent in English and conversational in Korean.
- First Asian-American woman to serve as a full-time NFL analyst on ESPN.
- Her podcast regularly ranks among the top NFL-related shows on Apple Podcasts.
- She once wrote a viral essay on “The Art of Tanking” in the NFL.
Social Media Links
- Twitter/X: @minakimes (over 700k followers)
- Instagram: @minakimes (over 300k followers)
- Facebook: Mina Kimes
- LinkedIn: Mina Kimes
- YouTube: Mina Kimes
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Mina Kimes in 2025?
Mina Kimes is 40 years old as of October 2025.
What is Mina Kimes’ net worth?
Her estimated net worth is around $3 million, thanks to her successful career at ESPN and other media ventures.
Is Mina Kimes married?
Yes, she is married to Nick Sylvester, a music producer. They have one son together.
What is Mina Kimes famous for?
Mina is best known for her work as an NFL analyst on ESPN, her podcasting, and her influential voice in sports media.
Does Mina Kimes have any tattoos?
Yes, she has a tattoo of her dog, Lenny, on her arm.
What is Mina Kimes’ nationality?
She is American, with Korean heritage from her mother’s side.
Conclusion
Mina Kimes stands out as a trailblazer in sports journalism, combining intellect, humor, and passion to inspire audiences nationwide. Her journey from business reporting to NFL stardom showcases her versatility and commitment to excellence. Share this biography with fellow fans and stay tuned for more updates on Mina’s remarkable career.
Sources: ESPN, The New York Times, Forbes, The Athletic, Fortune, Bloomberg, Yale University, Sports Illustrated.
