The Party in the Back Podcast on Gameops.com | Podcast in RSS.com

The Party in the Back Podcast on Gameops.com

The Party in the Back Podcast on Gameops.com

di Jon Cudo

Stagione 2026

July 2026 Party in the Back Podcast - Munn Talks Data

Jeff Munneke has been part of the Minnesota Timberwolves organization since 1988, helping shape the fan experience for nearly four decades. From ticket sales and youth basketball to leading fan experience for both the Minnesota Timberwolves and Minnesota Lynx, Jeff has built his career around one simple philosophy: "One Moment Creates a Memory." As Vice President of Fan Experience, Jeff oversees what the Timberwolves call the "driveway-to-driveway" experience. That means every touchpoint matters, from the moment a fan leaves home until they arrive back after the game. It's a philosophy that blends hospitality, entertainment, operations, and service into one seamless experience. This month on the Party in the Back Podcast, we explore one of the fastest-growing topics in sports: understanding fans through data. Every interaction leaves a clue. When fans buy tickets, arrive early (or late), park their car, use the team app, purchase merchandise, grab concessions, or attend theme nights, they're telling teams something about who they are and what they value. The best organizations aren't collecting this information simply to sell more tickets. They're using it to build better experiences, strengthen relationships, and create lifelong fans. Jeff Munneke has had a front-row seat to that evolution. During his 38 years with the Timberwolves, he's watched sports move from an industry driven almost entirely by instinct into one powered by sophisticated CRM systems, analytics, dashboards, and fan insights. Yet throughout all that change, he's remained focused on the people behind the numbers. In our conversation, we discuss how organizations identify different fan types, what teams can actually learn from attendance patterns, concession purchases, parking habits, merchandise sales, app engagement, and post-game surveys, and how those insights influence everything from staffing to game presentation. Jeff shares how the Timberwolves use information to make smarter decisions while still leaving room for instinct, emotion, surprise, and those memorable moments that can't be measured by a spreadsheet. We also spend time discussing the importance of listening to fans after every game. Jeff explains the team's simple but powerful post-game survey process, how comments are categorized into fan experience pillars, and how that feedback helps departments across the organization improve. Even better, the system also shines a spotlight on employees who create exceptional moments, reinforcing a culture built around service rather than simply solving problems. And after all the conversations about technology, dashboards, CRM systems, and analytics, we close with one simple question: What's one thing no spreadsheet will ever tell you about a sports fan? It's a thoughtful answer from someone who has spent nearly four decades studying fan behavior while never losing sight of the human side of sports.

June 2026 Party in the Back Podcast - Tarps Off with Rob Wicall

In the June 2026 episode of Party in the Back, host Jon Cudo sits down with longtime San Antonio Spurs performer, author, and experience-architect Rob Wicall to explore what he calls the "Wicall Experience". This is the idea that game presentation is not primarily about entertainment, but about creating community, connection, and transformation. Wicall explains that fans don't attend games simply to watch a score unfold. They come to feel part of something larger than themselves. Whether the home team wins or loses, the real goal is for fans to leave feeling connected, energized, and glad they were there. A major theme of the conversation is the power of contrast. They discuss how some teams unintentionally numb their audiences by delivering nonstop noise, promotions, and stimulation. Instead, Rob relates a solution using a "three-ring circus" model that focuses fan attention on one meaningful moment at a time. By strategically using silence, anticipation, and gradual build-ups, teams can create bigger emotional payoffs and more authentic crowd reactions. Cudo and Wicall point to common timeout structures that start at maximum intensity and quickly run out of runway, arguing that the strongest experiences often build slowly before reaching their emotional peak. The discussion also examines how organizations can better prepare for playoff environments. They look at how fan psychology changes dramatically when the postseason arrives. The focus shifts from fun and entertainment to passion, intensity, and belonging. Teams that wait until the playoffs to create community-focused content are often improvising when the stakes are highest. Cudo and Wicall note the importance of testing inspirational videos, emotional storytelling, and crowd-unity moments throughout the regular season so they have a proven playbook ready when playoff pressure arrives. The episode concludes with a look at some of the most powerful traditions in sports, many of which were never planned by a marketing department like the recent "Tarps Off"craze and the accidental success of the "Awkward Dad Dance Cam" Wicall argues that the best traditions emerge naturally from the community itself. The job of game presentation professionals is not to manufacture every moment, but to recognize authentic fan behavior, embrace it, and help it grow into something that strengthens the bond between fans, teams, and each other.

May 2026 Party in the Back Podcast - Erik Mertens

The May 2026 Party in the Back podcast features a conversation between Jon and Erik Mertens, the Director of Fan Experience for the Tri-City Dust Devils and known as "Erik the Peanut Guy." Jon and Erik explore the fundamental differences between pacing and storytelling across sports, noting how the structure of each game shapes the show. In hockey, the speed limits opportunities, forcing hosts to be sharp, efficient, and intentional with every moment. Baseball, on the other hand, provides more breathing room to build narratives, layer in humor, and connect larger story arcs throughout the game. They also touch on the fine line of comedy in live entertainment, emphasizing that the goal is to engage without crossing into territory that could alienate the audience. The conversation then shifts to tone-setting and adaptability, with Erik highlighting how every game has its own personality. From high-energy Friday nights to more laid-back Sunday afternoons, the best hosts “read the room” and adjust accordingly to stay authentic and credible. Establishing a positive tone early matters, as does framing the experience in a way that elevates the moment rather than diminishing it. They reinforce the importance of genuine interaction, pointing to examples like Andrew Grover, whose heartfelt engagement with fans creates lasting impact. At its core, the discussion centers on connection and community. Erik shares practical ways to build that bond, from greeting fans at the gate to recognizing individuals during the game, while Jon underscores how meaningful those moments are, especially for fans attending their one game a year. The conversation expands into branding, creativity, and purpose, with examples like the Dust Devils’ character-driven promotions and spontaneous in-game moments that resonate. It all builds to a bigger idea: sports aren’t just games, they’re shared experiences that create belonging, and the people behind the mic have a real opportunity (and responsibility) to make those moments count.

April 2026 Party in the Back Podcast - Rob Wicall

The April Party in the Back podcast dives into a deceptively simple idea that sits at the core of great game presentation: not everything can be “big.” The conversation opens with a sharp critique of overproduction, summed up in the phrase “you’re doing too much.” When every timeout is loud, every segment is hyped, and every moment is treated like the main event, the result is the opposite of what teams want.: Energy flattens. Nothing feels special. The best shows, as discussed, operate more like a circus, with a clear ebb and flow that guides attention and builds anticipation toward moments that actually matter. That philosophy carries into one of the episode’s most practical takeaways: “90 minutes for 90 seconds.” It’s not about the exact ratio, but the mindset. If a skit is going to hit, every variable needs to be controlled. Wicall and Cudo share examples where preparation, or lack of it, directly determined success. A failed fire hoop stunt that led to league-wide consequences is a reminder that execution isn’t luck. It’s planning. Even more telling is the emphasis on contingency. Knowing when not to run a bit, like avoiding a referee skit after a controversial call, is just as important as the idea itself. Great performers don’t just plan the show. They read the room. Plus a look at the Atlanta Hawks’ Black History Month activation honoring Lonnie Johnson, the NASA engineer and inventor of the Super Soaker. Instead of a traditional, static in-game recognition, the team turned the moment into a story. The mascot joined Johnson in a playful, on-brand skit that brought the invention to life and pulled a 'fan' into the experience. It’s a clear shift from “moment of silence” to “moment of celebration,” and it reinforces a bigger point: if you want fans to remember something, make them feel it. The conversation is a reminder that great game presentation isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing the right things, at the right time, with intention.

March 2026 Party in the Back Podcast - Jonathan Bravo

Jonathan Bravo brings a fresh, creative voice to Minor League Baseball as the Director of Marketing & Communications for the Fresno Grizzlies. A Fresno State graduate with a business administration degree focused on sports marketing, Bravo joined the organization in 2020 and quickly grew into a leadership role shaping the club’s brand and fan-experience strategy. Today he leads the development of the Grizzlies’ promotional calendar, oversees digital content and media storytelling, and helps align in-game entertainment with community and sponsor initiatives across Chukchansi Park. Known for blending smart marketing with authentic fan connection, Bravo represents the next generation of game-presentation leaders, making him a perfect guest for Party in the Back Podcast. Listeners can expect a wide-ranging, behind-the-scenes look at how Minor League Baseball marketing really works as Jonathan Bravo pulls back the curtain on his role with the Fresno Grizzlies. The conversation explores the unique leadership challenges of MiLB — from juggling multiple departments like communications, digital, and game presentation to embracing the creative freedom that comes with smaller staffs and bigger responsibilities. Jonathan shares how the Grizzlies begin promo planning as early as July, involving the entire front office in brainstorming sessions to build a calendar of 30+ unique theme nights designed to resonate locally while still grabbing national attention. The episode dives deep into the art and strategy of promotional storytelling, highlighting how Fresno leverages its 80-game home schedule to experiment with fan-driven ideas and community-focused events. From the breakout success of Emo Night to inventive concepts like Adult Homecoming, Dino Nugget Night, and friendship-bracelet activations, Jonathan explains how passion, fan feedback, and cultural trends fuel the team’s creativity. He also discusses the importance of eliminating “dead innings,” making fans the stars of the show, and ensuring every theme night is immersive enough that fans clearly feel and remember the story of the night. Beyond ideation, the pod explores the evolving tactics behind promoting promotions — including the power of visual storytelling, social media recaps, and even AI tools to amplify buzz before and after events. Jonathan and Jon also riff on meme culture (yes, the 6-7 phenomenon makes an appearance), personal branding, and the role of community history in shaping meaningful promotions. The result is a fun, idea-packed conversation filled with practical insights, creative inspiration, and plenty of Minor League charm — perfect for anyone looking to elevate their own promo calendar or simply appreciate the craft behind unforgettable fan experiences.

February 2026 Party in the Back Podcast - SKOL Wicall

This episode dives into one of the hottest evolving trends in sports entertainment, fan-driven traditions sparked by Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs’ new post-game drum celebration that keeps fans in their seats long after the final buzzer. Jon and Rob break down how these organic, European-style supporter traditions are gaining traction in North American sports and why mascots play a critical role in amplifying the energy without stealing the spotlight. The conversation also jumps into creative promotion strategies that help teams build deeper community connections. From the Toledo Walleye’s perfectly on-brand fishing jersey concepts to the Edmonton Oilers’ wildly successful World of Warcraft crossover night, the guys explore how teams can tap into local identity, fan passions, and pop culture partnerships to create unforgettable experiences. Plus, they dig into idea-sharing inside the mascot and game presentation world and why “borrowing brilliance” isn’t copying… it’s building better fan moments. If you’re looking for inspiration on how traditions start, promotions succeed, and mascots elevate both, this episode delivers a playbook full of practical and creative takeaways.

January 2026 Party in the Back Podcast - Robin Lopez

This episode traces the full arc of Robin “Rolo” Lopez’s legendary relationship with mascots, from its childhood roots to its impact on modern game presentation. Rolo recounts how he and his brother Brook first began needling mascots as kids, a dynamic that hardened into a true “villain origin story” after a 1997–98 encounter with Warriors’ mascot Thunder, who mocked his speech impediment — a moment that stuck with him and later spilled into the public eye when he inherited a feud with Detroit’s Hooper during his NBA career. As the bit evolved, especially during his time in Portland, the mascot feud became part of Rolo’s on-court identity and a team-wide ritual that broke up the monotony of the season, with teammates fully buying in and players like Giannis Antetokounmpo embracing the chaos. The conversation also dives into Rolo’s creative collaborations with game operations teams, including semi-scripted skits in Atlanta, a “buddy movie” arc with Orlando’s Stuff, and a now-infamous Phoenix Suns Gorilla setup that secretly involved "Benny the Bull" — a twist Rolo didn’t know was coming, producing a genuine, unforgettable reaction. Throughout the episode, Rolo underscores that sports are ultimately an entertainment business, arguing that while teams can’t control the outcome of games, they can control these theatrical moments, creating spontaneous-feeling, joyful experiences that cut through a rigid, cookie-cutter presentation and give fans something memorable beyond the final score.

Stagione 2025

December 2025 Party in the Back Podcast, Part 2

In this episode, Jon Cudo welcomes three industry standouts—Amanda Greco, Rob Wicall, and Cameron Hughes—to help reimagine recognition in the first-ever Cudos to You Awards. Amanda Greco breaks down the art of “Excellence in Execution,” showing how research, rehearsal, and calibration turn ambitious ideas into unforgettable fan experiences. She highlights standout examples like the Denver Broncos’ South Stands card stunt and the Cleveland Cavaliers’ show-stopping “Cavalanche,” revealing the intentional craft behind moments that feel both effortless and electric to fans. Rob Wicall brings his “Impact Award” to the table, sharing a heartfelt look at how mascots can shape culture, community, and emotion—spotlighting the massive influence of Blue and Gritty as models of modern character performance. Cameron Hughes closes the conversation with a powerful reminder of the human side of game entertainment, celebrating teams that use the “Power of Cheer” to lift spirits, unite communities, and create memories that matter more than any scoreboard. Together, these three voices offer a joyful, insightful tour through the creativity and connection that make great game presentation truly remarkable.

December 2025 Party in the Back Podcast, Part 1

In this episode, Jon Cudo is joined by two beloved voices in the world of Minor League Baseball entertainment: Erik “The Peanut Guy” Mertens and MiLB storyteller Benjamin Hill. Erik kicks things off with his “Let’s Get Nutz” Award, celebrating the game ops moments that unite fans through spontaneity, humor, and pure joy. From Rick Rizzs’ magical Ichiro Night sing-along in Seattle to Lake County’s delightfully absurd toilet-themed contest and Tacoma’s rooftop “Sax Gorilla,” Erik highlights the wonderfully unexpected moments that make ballparks feel alive—and ultimately names Seattle and Stillwater as his top nods. Ben Hill follows with his trademark blend of insight and curiosity, exploring his favorite promotions from across MiLB in 2025. From the Syracuse Mets’ “Search for Jim Morrison” and Buffalo’s Goo Goo Dolls Giveaway to full-scale identity switches like the Erie Moon Mammoths and Cleveland Pierogies, Ben showcases the creativity and weirdness that define the minors. He reminds us that comparing promotions is an apples-to-oranges endeavor, and that the true winners are always the fans who benefit from teams’ willingness to innovate, experiment, and embrace the wonderfully strange. Together, Erik and Ben offer a joyful tour through the heart of MiLB entertainment—where community, creativity, and a touch of chaos reign supreme.

November 2025 Party in the Back Podcast - Ben Hill

In this episode of The Party in the Back Podcast, host Jon Cudo announces an exciting new chapter for the long-running GameOps.com Best of Awards. After years of recognizing excellence through a competitive ranking system, the awards are evolving into a more celebratory and inclusive format — the “Cudos To You” Awards. This refreshed approach shifts the focus from competition to appreciation, shining a fun and positive spotlight on the people, promotions, and ideas that make the sports entertainment industry so creative and memorable. Joining Jon to discuss the change is Ben Hill, the beloved chronicler of minor league baseball’s quirkiest and most heartwarming traditions. Known for his long-running “Ben’s Biz” coverage and deep love for the culture of the minors, Ben brings his trademark enthusiasm and storytelling flair to the conversation. Together, they unveil Ben’s new role in the “Cudos” program, where he’ll lead a category celebrating the Best Promos in Minor League Baseball — recognizing the imaginative fan experiences that make the minors so special. Ben also shares stories from his travels, revisiting some of the unforgettable characters who have brought color and charm to ballparks across America — from Reading’s Crazy Hot Dog Vendor and Buffalo’s Conehead beer man to Spartanburg’s roller-skating Jay Sparkle and San Jose’s legendary Churros Man. The conversation reminds listeners why these one-of-a-kind personalities matter: they turn games into experiences, foster community identity, and keep fans coming back for more.

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