Between The Fur
By Kenn Solomon
For fans of sports, entertainment, and those looking for a good laugh.
Between The FurMar 28, 2019
#67 When Michael Jordan Couldn't Say No to Rocky
Journey back to the early days of NBA mascots, where Kenn Solomon and his assistant Scott Strate formed an inseparable team, mastering the art of Mascot mind-reading, improved performances, and thriving under intense pressure.
Beyond the success of their performances, Scott's unwavering support and keen intuition not only ensured Kenn's well-being but also played a pivotal role in executing some of his most iconic stunts and skits.
As they reflect on over 20 years of friendship, Kenn and Scott share candid insights into their shared journey traveling the world, the challenges they faced, the unforgettable moments they shared on the court, and the profound bond that has stood the test of time.
Sponsor: BURR BOTTLES use code FURBURR
MERCH: https://store.streamelements.com/kennsolomon
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Highlights:
7:37 - When Last Minute Skits Work Out
12:23 - Rocky Makes Micheal Jordan Sign a Ball in Game
21:24 - Hosting The All Star Game
32:18 - Using Their Own Kids in Skits (Viral Hair Cut Skit)
34:24 - Performing in Argentina
42:40 - Performing Around The World
If you enjoyed this episode, you can contribute by following the show, leaving a rating, and sharing this episode!
#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.
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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!
#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
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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!
#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:
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!
#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!
#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
#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
#60 Spurs' Original Coyote
Kenn and Tim Derk traveled the world! While dunking Kenn hyperextended his knee, dislocated his shoulder and hip, Tim is left performing solo for the next 6 minutes in a sold out arena. Tim Derk was the original Spurs Coyote & put this iconic character into the spotlight in the early days of the NBA.
🧢 MERCH: https://linktr.ee/superkenn
🌴 Cool Properties: https://cool-properties.lodgify.com/
#59 "Apart of Something Much Bigger" | Orbit
Episode #60: Pro Mascot performer for the Houston Astros Kyle Hamsher sheds light on the return of the beloved character Orbit and shares an incredible moment with a blind man. Kyle is a passionate performer with a lot of character and a unique approach to working a crowd.
Follow: @superkenn, @kylethehammer
🧢 MERCH: https://linktr.ee/superkenn
🌴 Cool Properties: https://cool-properties.lodgify.com/
#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
#57 Growing up & Raising Kids in the NBA
Episode #58: What are NBA Mascot's kids up to? Garett Solomon, Jon Absey and Kenn share some of their best memories growing up/raising kids while performing and traveling the world as a professional Mascot.
Jon Absey - Utah Jazz | Kenn Solomon - Denver Nuggets | Garett Solomon - Current NBA Mascot
Follow: @superkenn1, @jon_absey, @gsolo22
Merch: https://linktr.ee/superkenn
#56 NBA Mascot Freaks Out Scott Hastings
Episode #56: Former NBA Champion and now Color Analyst Scott Hastings and Mascot performer Kenn Solomon have known each other since the 1990s and have had some entertaining experiences throughout their careers. Hastings sheds light on his position with the Denver Nuggets and why he pulls no punches.
Connect with Kenn Solomon: https://linktr.ee/superkenn
#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.
🍿 "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.
🔥 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!
🥺 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.
"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!
😾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.
😵 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.
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
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
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/
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.
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!
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.
Why "BLUE" Takes His Head off for Kids...
Episode #42: Trey Mock takes a non traditional approach to influence Colts fans in and out of the stadium. We go deep into our famous trick shots and "Blue's" unique way of impacting fans by unmasking to spread love and hope.
Video episode: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCK_dv0AlduLNJcPRpHa9Cuw
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!
"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!
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 ;)
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.
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!
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!
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
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
? 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
Mascot HOF, Where it Rains Confetti | Orestes Hernandez
Life size Mr. Potato Heads, t-shirt cannon simulators, & everything FUR! Executive Director Orestes Hernandez takes us through the most unorthodox hall of fame in the world, he explains how The Mascot Hall of Fame is not just a tribute to Mascots but an interactive experience taking you through the unknown world of these performers. Orestes also shares how the voting is going for the 2020 HOF class!
Sponsors: Alinco Costumes/GameOps.com
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
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
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!
The first "LUCKY" Wasn't So Lucky | Jeff Goodin
The first "LUCKY" wasn't quite so lucky. Jeff Goodin was the first Celtics in costume Mascot "Lucky" (yes, when it comes to Boston there's a difference) and the Dallas Mavericks Mascots "MavsMan" and "Champ". We get into how everyone in Boston hated the first "Lucky", how this isn't a $7 an hour job, the early days of Mark Cuban and our interactions with him. Goodin is as "goodin" as it gets!
https://www.facebook.com/BTFmascots/
Sponsors: ALINCO Costumes & GameOps.com
Former "G-WIZ & G-MAN" | ZOLI
Zoltan (Zoli) the best chameleon in professional sports! Zoli was the first "G-Wiz" for the Washington Wizards. He has gone on to fill in for Mascots spanning the NBA, NHL, and NFL. He is currently the Senior Production Manager for the world famous Harlem Globetrotters! We share our stunt work in movies, commercials, and music videos, as well as our brushes with the rich and famous.
https://www.facebook.com/BTFmascots/
Sponsors: ALINCO Costumes & GameOps.com
Former "BOOMER" | Paul Linne | Heartwarming Moments
Designing and creating BOOMER, I nearly die in Australia, & the cancer he will die with!
Paul and I go way back to almost the beginning of my career. He talks of his gymnastic background, being involved in creating the character Boomer and performing as such. We share stories of Australia and how I almost died. Paul also shares his story of his current battle with cancer. I love this guy and miss him.
https://www.facebook.com/BTFmascots/
Sponsors: ALINCO Costumes & GameOps.com
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.
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
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
2019 Mascot Conference P2 | Legendary Stories from Around The League
(Bleeps are added to this episode to cover up language and names keeping current mascots identity private.)
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!
"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
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!!
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