EP 052 Matt Farago Harlem Globetrotters
This episode I chat with the in-arena voice of the Harlem Globetrotters, Matt Farago. Topics of discussion include:
- Why this job goes against all of the normal rules of play-by-play.
- Figuring out how to balance the aspects of play-by-play, PA, and showmanship required for this unique position.
- How to keep a high level of energy with the outcome more or less pre-determined.
- How he got into the business as a 14 year old.
- Who his first sponsor was and the difficulty of making sales calls as a high school student.
- The process of landing the Globetrotters gig.
- The weirdness of auditioning in front of other people.
- Highlights of traveling to 22 countries and counting.
- Working with translators for a global audience.
- The response from non-traditional basketball cities.
- Losing his luggage and having to do four games with only two sets of clothes.
- Comparing gigs in small towns with gigs in the big city.
- The worst hotel he’s ever stayed in.
- Staying in a six star hotel.
- Keeping his voice healthy when doing 150 games in 160 days.
- Camaraderie with the team.
- Following the ball with all the sleight of hand during Globetrotters game.
- Balancing personal life with the demanding travel schedule.
- What he ate for 14 days in a row in France.
- Finding work in the off season in Pittsburgh.
- Celebrities he’s met at games.
- Being an extra in a movie.
- Broadcaster horror stories.
- His favorite broadcasters to listen to on off days.
And much more!
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