Skip to main content
Between The Fur

Between The Fur

By Kenn Solomon

The show that allows professional sports Mascots to reveal their bizarre, funny, and inspirational stories from behind the mask and give an exclusive insight on what it's like behind the scenes and between the fur of the pro Mascot world. Hosted by NBA Mascot Performer Kenn Solomon.
For fans of sports, entertainment, and those looking for a good laugh.
Listen on Spotify
Available on
Apple Podcasts Logo
Castbox Logo
Google Podcasts Logo
Overcast Logo
Pocket Casts Logo
PodBean Logo
RadioPublic Logo
Spotify Logo
Currently playing episode

Former "HARRY THE HAWK" | Wayne Jordan

Between The FurFeb 27, 2019

00:00
57:30
#67 When Michael Jordan Couldn't Say No to Rocky
Mar 20, 202457:23
#66 Benny's Bow: Unmasking the Secret Retirement of a Mascot Superstar

#66 Benny's Bow: Unmasking the Secret Retirement of a Mascot Superstar

Kenn sits down with John Nunez, the former embodiment of the iconic "Benny The Bull" Mascot for eight thrilling years. From donning the beloved costume at a young age to facing the intense pressure of maintaining a character with an immense reputation, John shares the highs and lows of his journey as the famous Mascot.


FOLLOW:

🔥 Kenn Solomon

🔥 John Nunez

🔥 Facebook


Sponsor: ⁠BURR BOTTLES⁠ use code FURBURR

MERCH:https://store.streamelements.com/kennsolomon⁠


Highlights:

2:40 - All About Aubie

12:05 - Being a Celebrity and a Nobody

17:07 - John's First Year as Benny

20:24 - Working with Celebrities / Leaving The Fame

25:29 - Building Millions of Followers

29:12 - Pet Peeves

40:32 - Popcorn Skits


If you enjoyed this episode, you can contribute by following the show, leaving a rating, and sharing this episode!

Feb 19, 202447:03
#65 The Art of Tradition with the Phillie Phanatic Performer

#65 The Art of Tradition with the Phillie Phanatic Performer

Today's episode is with Tom Burgoyne. Dive into the fascinating world of pro Mascots as Kenn chats with the iconic Phillie Phanatic performer about the art of keeping traditions alive and maintaining the magic that fans cherish. Discover the artistry, dedication, and the fascinating stories behind the unwavering consistency in the realm of Mascots.


Sponsor: BURR BOTTLES use code FURBURR

MERCH: https://store.streamelements.com/kennsolomon


FOLLOW:

🔥 ⁠Tom Burgoyne

🔥 Kenn Solomon

🔥 Facebook


Highlights:

14:03 - New Rules for Mascots

23:08 - Phones & Crowd Work

27:51 - Screw-Ups | JD Drew Mishap

38:59 - Tom's Destiny


Quote: "You're only young once but you can be immature forever."


If you enjoyed this episode, you can contribute by following the show, leaving a rating, and sharing this episode!

Feb 12, 202447:53
#64 Beyond the Spotlight: Navigating the Stage with Hearing Impairment and Fading Sight

#64 Beyond the Spotlight: Navigating the Stage with Hearing Impairment and Fading Sight

Episode #64.

In this inspiring episode we dive into the remarkable journey of Mike Walsh, the former mascot for the Colorado Rapids, known as Rapidman. Despite facing the challenges of hearing impairment since childhood and the gradual loss of his vision, Mike has turned adversity into opportunity.

Discover the incredible story of how Mike not only embraced his unique circumstances but uses them to his advantage.

Now, as the founder of 'Flight For Sight,' he is dedicated to helping individuals with hearing and vision impairments navigate life with resilience and joy.


💦 BURR BOTTLES: https://burrbottles.com/

⚡️ MERCH: https://store.streamelements.com/kennsolomon


Check-out Flight For Sight & Apply Here:

Flight For Sight


FOLLOW:

🔥 Kenn Solomon - https://linktr.ee/superkenn

🔥 Mike Walsh - https://www.instagram.com/mikegwalsh/

🔥 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/BTFmascots


Highlights:

2:32 - Mike's Background / Diagnosis.

6:37 - Being Hearing Impaired & Performing.

14:37 - Kenn's Original Giant T-Shirt Cannons.

16:43 - Going from College to The Pros.

29:40 - Using a Disability to your Advantage.

33:35 - Kenn's just "Run" Philosophy.

42:23 - Rapidman gets Scraped, 4 New Mascots are Introduced.


If you enjoyed this episode, you can contribute by following the show, leaving a rating, and sharing this episode!

Feb 05, 202449:25
#63 The World-Changing Impact of Storytelling

#63 The World-Changing Impact of Storytelling

Episode #63

Meet today's guest Trey Humphreys, formerly the force behind the Atlanta Falcons Mascot persona "Freddie The Falcon". Trey has evolved into a multifaceted individual, now making waves as an accomplished author of the book "Love is Bananas", personal branding strategist, and international speaker. In every endeavor, Trey continues to embody the spirit of joy, creativity, and genuine connection, proving that the art of storytelling transcends boundaries and can shape a truly remarkable life.

HIGHLIGHTS: 5:00 - Trey's Mascot Background. 11:45 - When your team isn't very good... 15:33 - What's the most important thing in the world? 19:05 - Trey's famous party/fur bus. 28:56 - Hitting rock bottom. 39:10 - Philosophy on life.

Sponsor: 💦 BURR BOTTLES: https://burrbottles.com/ ⚡️ MERCH: https://store.streamelements.com/kennsolomon

FOLLOW: 🔥 Kenn Solomon - https://linktr.ee/superkenn 🔥 Trey Humphreys - https://www.instagram.com/treygoesglobal/ 🔥 Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/BTFmascots


If you enjoyed this episode, you can contribute by following the show, leaving a rating, and sharing!

Jan 23, 202442:49
#62 Behind The Magic: The Fading Art of Pro Mascots

#62 Behind The Magic: The Fading Art of Pro Mascots

Episode #62: Step into the locker room of nostalgia as Kenn Solomon, Bob Woolf, and Jon Absey share untold stories, explore the evolution of mascots from whimsical characters to integral parts of the NBA experience, and discuss the impact these fuzzy entertainers have had on fans and the game itself.

Sponsored by Burr Bottles: https://burrbottles.com/

Follow:

@superkenn1

@jon_absey

@woolf.bob

Nov 15, 202344:05
#61 NBA Mascots. Liability or Asset?

#61 NBA Mascots. Liability or Asset?

Episode #61: NBA Mascot Performers Rob Wicall and Kenn Solomon share their expertise on Pro Sports Mascots as they recount their time in the league. Sponsored by burr bottles

💦 BURR BOTTLES: https://burrbottles.com/


Follow:

@superkenn1

@whycallrob

Oct 10, 202350:25
#60 Spurs' Original Coyote
Nov 05, 202201:00:01
#59 "Apart of Something Much Bigger" | Orbit
Aug 31, 202250:53
#58 Super Fans, Meeting Presidents & Inspiring Generations | Toro

#58 Super Fans, Meeting Presidents & Inspiring Generations | Toro

Episode #59: Currant Texans Mascot performer Andrew Johnson, was inspired to chase a Mascot career after witnessing Dan Meers ("KC Wolf") unveil himself at his elementary school. Kenn and Andrew exchange their most memorable and inspirational moments from their careers.

Follow:

@superkenn1

@andrewpjohnson


MERCH: https://linktr.ee/superkenn

Aug 04, 202251:51
#57 Growing up & Raising Kids in the NBA
Jul 06, 202201:00:57
#56 NBA Mascot Freaks Out Scott Hastings
Apr 30, 202254:36
#55 NBA Mascots on The Court Then vs Now

#55 NBA Mascots on The Court Then vs Now

Episode #55: NBA Mascots Kenn Solomon and Jon Cudo have been in the league for over 30 years and have experienced the evolution of pro sports. In this episode you will gain even more insight on the behind the scenes of the pro Mascot world.

Apr 19, 202201:10:09
🍿 "Don't Be Burnt Popcorn" | Bello Knock

🍿 "Don't Be Burnt Popcorn" | Bello Knock

Episode #54: Big stunts, big personality, big hair and the wisdom to match!  Bello, is a comedic, daredevil clown who performs worldwide and has appeared on many iconic shows such as America's Got Talent and The Greatest Show on Earth.

Feb 04, 202201:04:05
🔥 The New Product SOLID Will Change Your Game

🔥 The New Product SOLID Will Change Your Game

Episode: #53: The inside scoop on Josh Martin's new revolutionary supplements! Listen in on his story, how it started and how it's a huge game changer for athletes and performers. 

Visit https://becomesolid.com/ & use code "kennsolid" for 30% off your order!

Dec 17, 202134:36
🥺 Unexplainable Emotions 🥴

🥺 Unexplainable Emotions 🥴

Episode #52: Everything from weddings to being groped. Former "Southpaw" from the Chicago White Sox of over 12 years shares some of her most memorable, heartfelt and disturbing stories from her career in the MLB! Carrie is one of few female performers in the pro Mascot world and has quite an interesting and inspiring story.

Nov 16, 202157:18
"The Art of Play" w/Robert Shields

"The Art of Play" w/Robert Shields

Episode #51: Emmy Award winner Robert Shields and Kenn share incredible stories from their career's in entertainment. "Robert Shields is a one-man creative machine who has spent his life sharing his sense of energy, awe, and wonder with people all over the world." Robert's show Shields and Yarnell won the Las Vegas Entertainers of the Year award two years in a row and together they appeared on over 400 national television shows. A true icon in the performer and physical comic world and one of Kenn's greatest influences!

Oct 02, 202149:38
😾Why Are NBA Mascots ANGRY?

😾Why Are NBA Mascots ANGRY?

Episode #50: Stories about getting angry in costume at intoxicated fans, now banned classic NBA Mascot stunts, and enduring the stress of the big leagues. Another fun episode w/ Kenn Solomon, Robert Boudwin, Scott Hesington, Jon Absey and other special guests.

Sep 25, 202101:03:28
😵 Being Cute is Death

😵 Being Cute is Death

Episode #49: Kenn Solomon, Robert Boudwin, Jon Absey, Rob Wicall and many other guest speakers go over the art of performing and catching the attention of large crowds while sharing some of their crazy performances from the NBA.

Sep 11, 202101:04:29
Robert Boudwin's "Clutch" Moments

Robert Boudwin's "Clutch" Moments

Episode #48: Welcome back to the podcast, Robert Boudwin!

🥳 Check-in on Robert and the twins: https://radicaldadding.com/  

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK_dv0AlduLNJcPRpHa9Cuw

Apr 09, 202159:25
The Wild West Days of The NBA

The Wild West Days of The NBA

Episode #47: Behind the scenes stories of famous skits and stunts with the former Jazz Bear - Jon Absey

Mar 03, 202101:00:19
The Gorilla Almost Gets NBA Director Fired

The Gorilla Almost Gets NBA Director Fired

Episode #46: A Beauty Among The Beasts! Felisa Israel - former Live Programming & Entertainment Director for the NBA and is now the CEO of IMPACT Internship!  

Check out her site:  (Courses are available online or in-person) https://impactinternship.com/

Feb 09, 202159:51
Former HEAT Mascot & His Famous Flip Fail | Gus Guerra

Former HEAT Mascot & His Famous Flip Fail | Gus Guerra

Episode #45: More amazing stories and inspiration with Gus Guerra, former "BURNIE" of the Miami Heat.

Oct 01, 202047:38
Behind The Scenes Mascot Stories | former "SWOOSHMAN" & "RUMBLE"

Behind The Scenes Mascot Stories | former "SWOOSHMAN" & "RUMBLE"

Episode #44: Cudo and Mark Taylor get into their history in the NBA and as former Nike's Mascot "Swooshman" and the Thunder's "Rumble". These two share some unique Mascot secrets and stories! 

Aug 18, 202001:01:49
World's Youngest Pro Mascot!

World's Youngest Pro Mascot!

Episode #43: Nick has been performing alongside pro mascots since he was 3 years old! Now at age 11 he performs in the NBA, NFL, MLB, and for his local sports teams. Checkout how it all started and what the future holds for this Mini Mascot.

Jul 15, 202036:26
Why "BLUE" Takes His Head off for Kids...
May 06, 202001:00:27
Totaling Kevin Green's Dodge Viper | FREDDIE FALCON

Totaling Kevin Green's Dodge Viper | FREDDIE FALCON

Episode #41: Atlanta Falcon's Jeremy Legg! Deep conversation about life changing moments, wrecking Kevin Green's Millennium Dodge Viper, the amazing influence of our characters, and "Freddie Falcon" unmasking!   

Apr 09, 202001:03:42
"HARVEY THE HOUND" sledding paused the Calgary Flames game | Glenn Street

"HARVEY THE HOUND" sledding paused the Calgary Flames game | Glenn Street

Episode #40: Glenn Street shares inspiring stories of how he won over Calgary crowds, what it took to become a successful Mascot, and the crazy rules of the big leagues. 👑 

Find Between The Fur on Facebook for an exclusive promo code and receive 10% off your visit to the 2020 Mascot U conference! 

Mar 05, 202040:30
The Show Must Go on, on a Broken Foot | Taylor Griswold

The Show Must Go on, on a Broken Foot | Taylor Griswold

Episode #39: Former "Hooper" for the Detroit Pistons Taylor Griswold proved that in this industry the show must go on even during sickness and injury. Taylor took things to the next level and broke a few bones in the process but never let that stop him from getting in front of the fans. Taylor and I also get into our skydiving mishaps and my near death experience ;)

Feb 08, 202057:56
One "Hip Hop" Drop and the 76ers Stop | Bill Roth

One "Hip Hop" Drop and the 76ers Stop | Bill Roth

Episode #38: The one and only "Hip Hop" has a unique story involving everything from police escorts, tough Philly crowds, lawsuits, losing teeth on the rim, and becoming one of the best gymnasts in the NBA. I tell about snowboarding down the steps and fans catching colds from t-shirt canons.  

Jan 27, 202058:47
Scott Almost Dies in Most of his Rehearsals | Scott Hesington

Scott Almost Dies in Most of his Rehearsals | Scott Hesington

Episode #37: Scott Hesington former "STUFF" and former "HOOPER", has a few run ins with near death experiences durning his days with the Magic. We also get into his feuds with Danny Fortson and other players.  Scott is a fireball that when in costume he's peddle to the metal!

Jan 16, 202001:10:12
Spurs' "COYOTE" Catches a Live Bat | Rob Wicall

Spurs' "COYOTE" Catches a Live Bat | Rob Wicall

The Mascot world is a mad mad mad world full of excitement, danger, and criticism. Rob Wicall brings up how he got ejected from a game, after years of waiting how he ended up catching a bat on court, and how he made the best of his career. A story packed episode!

Jan 07, 202001:14:11
Lakers & a Toilet | Jay Evans P2

Lakers & a Toilet | Jay Evans P2

Jumping into hot tubs, riding busses onto the Today Show, and the Lakers huddle around a toilet. This episode dives even deeper into Jay and I's NBA career and how we pulled off some of the most bizarre antics!

Sponsors: Alinco Costumes / GameOps.com   

Dec 16, 201953:49
Human Energizer | Jay Evans P1

Human Energizer | Jay Evans P1

I get together with my former assistant Jay Evans to talk about our iconic and memorable performances in the NBA. Jay was a big part of some of my biggest and most outrageous stunts and skits I ever did in the early 2000’s. We get into everything from an impossible treadmill dance to being booed out by an emotional crowd. We had a blast with this one, stay tuned for more from Jay in the next episode!

Sponsors: Alinco Costumes & GameOps.com

Nov 20, 201933:56
? NBA Mascot | Todd Maroldo

? NBA Mascot | Todd Maroldo

Without revealing which Mascot he is in the NBA, Todd and I get into some rollerblade dunk fails, the ever evolving "cans" and "cant's", NBA vs NFL and more! Todd's a deep thinker and well spoken, love this guy!

 Sponsors: Alinco Costumes/GameOps.com

Nov 04, 201943:35
Mascot HOF, Where it Rains Confetti | Orestes Hernandez
Oct 23, 201935:36
Former "SKYHAWK" | Kirk Johnson

Former "SKYHAWK" | Kirk Johnson

Rollerblade dunking at 25MPH, face-planting into backboards, and The Teeterboard fail.  Kirk Johnson, former ASU gymnast performed in the NBA from 1997 - 2009 as the Atlanta Hawks Mascot "SkyHawk".  A man of God, a family man, and a true performer!

Sponsors: Alinco Costumes & GameOps.com      

Oct 21, 201946:18
The Good, The Bad & The "Crappy" | Former "BEAR" Jon Absey

The Good, The Bad & The "Crappy" | Former "BEAR" Jon Absey

Talk about BEARing it all! Jon gets personal with stories of pooping his pants while performing, his extreme injuries, and he sheds light on a pro mascot's commitment and loyalty to his brand. (Please excuse Jon's iPhone 2 and it's audio quality) Credit to Jason Thompson for sending in his mascot fail story, shared in this episode. Thank You! 

Sponsors: Alinco Costumes & GameOps.com

Oct 12, 201937:52
Where The Fur Flys | Alinco's Jill & Nick

Where The Fur Flys | Alinco's Jill & Nick

Have you ever visited an actual costume company? It's kinda like Willy Wonka's Chocolate factory, you never know what's going to be around the next corner! For this episode I decided to stop by Alinco in Salt Lake City Utah and visit Jill and Nick Allen after the Mascot Bowl game! I guess you could say I went on a field trip! 

Oct 07, 201913:01
The first "LUCKY" Wasn't So Lucky | Jeff Goodin
Sep 20, 201949:21
Former "G-WIZ & G-MAN" | ZOLI
Sep 14, 201952:15
Former "BOOMER" | Paul Linne | Heartwarming Moments
Sep 06, 201901:07:51
Former "BENNY" | Barry Anderson | The Effort it Takes

Former "BENNY" | Barry Anderson | The Effort it Takes

Talk about going deep... Barry, the artist formerly known as "BENNY THE BULL" from the Chicago Bulls, dives deep into the art of being a professional mascot.  Barry reveals how he brought Benny to life and the mental and physical effort it took! 

Checkout what Barry is up to now!

-Custom Costumes:  orders@chigacocostume.com / ChicagoCostumes.com

-JigSaw Entertainment:  barry@jugsawentertainment.com - Mascot design, construction, branding and performance for international & domestic sports teams, sports federations and large corporations.

Aug 27, 201901:03:05
Charlotte Bobcats "RUFUS" | Dave Stogdill

Charlotte Bobcats "RUFUS" | Dave Stogdill

The one and only Rufus from the short-lived Charlotte Bobcats.  Hear him tell of his journey to the NBA, his 9 years with the Bobcats, his book Belayed Gratification, and a starstruck Jessica Simpson and her parents.   

CONNECT WITH US ON FACEBOOK @BTFmascots

Aug 22, 201955:13
Former "HOOPER" | Chris Ernest | Shocking Stories

Former "HOOPER" | Chris Ernest | Shocking Stories

Chris Ernest drops a couple shockers in this episode!  I was totally caught off guard when he spoke of his childhood! It was a true pleasure to speak to the man who worked his way in to the mascot world and the NBA. I learned that there really is a soft heart behind that crazy FUR BALL!!

Thank You for listening!

CHECK US OUT ON FACEBOOK - @BTFmascots 

Aug 13, 201901:12:31
2019 Mascot Conference P2 | Legendary Stories from Around The League

2019 Mascot Conference P2 | Legendary Stories from Around The League

Eric McMahon ("GRIZZ"), Jon Absey (former "JAZZ BEAR"), Barry Anderson (former "BENNY THE BULL"), and I share some memorable and amusing mascot mishaps and stories at the 2019 Mascot Conference in Memphis TN.
(Bleeps are added to this episode to cover up language and names keeping current mascots identity private.)
Aug 06, 201929:53
2019 Mascot Conference | Jerry "THE KING" Lawler

2019 Mascot Conference | Jerry "THE KING" Lawler

What an honor it was to have THE KING, Jerry Lawler, as the guest speaker at the 2019 NBA Mascot Conference in Memphis, TN! Jerry is in the WWE Hall of Fame and is a Color Commentator, he has also appeared in several movies including MAN ON THE MOON.  In his speech he tells of his experiences with Mascots, the late Hollywood Star ANDY KAUFMAN, and Late Night with DAVID LETTERMAN. We were all riveted... ENJOY!

Jul 31, 201938:54
"KC WOLF" | Dan Meers

"KC WOLF" | Dan Meers

A chat with the legendary and current Kansas City Chiefs Mascot KC WOLF!  Dan Meers is the first NFL Mascot featured on Between the Fur.  Dan talks of his work in the community, philanthropy, 30 year career, and how his near death injury has been a blessing overall.  As we chatted about his 70 ft. fall, I get the opportunity to clear the air about the time I got hung from the catwalk in front of 19k people!  ENJOY!!

FOLLOW: 

Facebook @BTFmascots 

Jul 16, 201901:02:47
MASCOT Designer & Former ATLANTA HAWK | Tom Sapp & Wayne Jordan

MASCOT Designer & Former ATLANTA HAWK | Tom Sapp & Wayne Jordan

In a way these two gentlemen "Brought me into this world!"  Tom Sapp is the Designer and Creator of hundreds of mascots and characters around the globe. Wayne and Tom have worked together developing characters like the Denver Nuggets mascot ROCKY and the Pistons HOOPER to name a few.  It was a ton of fun chatting with these two geniuses and sharing stories of successes and me almost dying while skydiving in costume! ENJOY!!

Jun 28, 201946:50
MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES "GRIZZ" | Eric McMahon

MEMPHIS GRIZZLIES "GRIZZ" | Eric McMahon

An unbelievable story of a man behind a mask cheating death.  Eric McMahon shares his eerie, jaw dropping story of his battle with cancer and how his team, town and fellow mascots rallied around him.  You will be saddened, angry, and inspired as Eric takes you on this personal journey.

FOLLOW:

Facebook @BTFmascots

Jun 18, 201901:07:16