Matt Coy joins Jon Cudo on Party in the Back to explore how teams can create better game presentations through accessible technology, purposeful rehearsals and stronger communication. The conversation covers web-based light shows and interactive tools that bring fans’ phones into the action, putting new possibilities within reach of programs from high schools to the major leagues. Matt also discusses the practical work behind successful adoption, including securing reliable control room internet access and training an operator who has the time and confidence to own the system.

Rehearsals take center stage as Matt shares ways to make preparation more productive and protect crew morale. His approach starts with completing technical checks before the creative rehearsal begins, establishing one clear voice to lead the session and setting specific goals for each segment. Empowering department leads to flag critical problems and updating the show flow as changes happen help turn rehearsal time into a sharper, more coordinated performance. The discussion also offers practical advice for advancing a career in sports: build relationships across departments, showcase your contributions, learn from other leaders and seek opportunities to lead—even outside your current job.

In this episode, Jon Cudo, Rob Wicall and Marc Taylor build their Mascot Mt. Rushmore and use their selections to explore what makes a mascot program truly great. The panel agrees on three foundational characters: the Famous Chicken, who helped establish the professional mascot business model and introduced a vaudeville-style approach to mascot comedy; the Phillie Phanatic, who expanded that foundation through decades of consistent character work; and the Phoenix Suns Gorilla, whose athleticism, stunts and high-flying dunks established a new performance standard that influenced a generation of mascots.

The debate becomes more personal with the fourth position, as Taylor selects Rocky of the Denver Nuggets for innovation and character development, Wicall chooses Benny the Bull for longevity and successful evolution across multiple performers, and Cudo picks Timber Jim for the authenticity of a character built around the real skills of a working lumberjack. Their choices lead to a larger discussion about whether mascot greatness belongs to the character, the individual performer or the complete program. The Gorilla’s legacy, for example, is closely connected to former gymnast Bob Woolf, while Barry Anderson’s tenure represents a particularly influential era for Benny the Bull. By contrast, the Phanatic demonstrates how a clearly defined character and strong organizational foundation can sustain excellence across performers and generations.

The panel also examines the importance of constant performance, innovation, team support and building a character around the distinctive talents of the person inside the suit. They discuss modern and near-miss candidates including Gritty, Clutch, Jazz Bear, Stuff, Blue and KC Wolf, highlighting achievements in social media, community service, business development and live entertainment. Ultimately, the conversation shows that there is no single route to mascot greatness, but the most successful programs consistently find a way to stand out, use their performers’ strengths, support the organization’s larger goals and build something capable of lasting beyond any one person or era.

The line between game presentation and social media has never been thinner. The best moments inside an arena no longer end when the final horn sounds, they continue to spread across the internet long after the final horn. In this episode of Party in the Back, we're joined by Chad Howell, founder of ROSCOE Marketing, to explore what makes content travel and what sports entertainment professionals can learn from the people who study social media for a living.

Chad has built a reputation by looking beyond trends and viral videos to understand why certain moments connect while thousands of others are forgotten. Rather than chasing algorithms, he focuses on the emotional and creative ingredients that earn attention: surprise, joy, relatability, authenticity, and human connection. Together, we'll dig into the psychology behind shareable content, the difference between creating one viral hit versus consistently producing memorable moments.

Great game presentation and great social content are built on many of the same fundamentals: surprise, emotion, clarity, authenticity, and creating moments people can't wait to tell someone else about. We'll discuss how game presentation teams can use the same creative triggers that fuel viral content to design promotions, contests, and fan interactions.

It's a conversation full of practical ideas, fresh perspectives, and actionable takeaways for anyone looking to create experiences that leave a lasting impression.