The Power of Fun with Dave Raymond, aka the Original Phillie Phanatic

In Philadelphia, one figure who needs absolutely no introduction is the Phillie Phanatic, the team mascot who is as iconic in these parts as Dr. J, Ben Franklin, or Rocky Balboa.

Beyond being a key fixture of Phillies' home games, the Phanatic shows up at playgrounds, schools, hospitals and all kinds of special events with one purpose: to bring happiness — especially to kids.

In this episode, I speak with Dave Raymond, the man who first brought the Phanatic to life in 1978. Dave spent 16 years in the green suit, entertaining thousands along the way.

Now a marketing expert, personal development trainer and coach, Dave is also a motivational speaker who talks about the power of fun and the tenets of positive psychology.

Listen in as we talk about the Phanatic’s inception, the business of mascoting and how Dave was saved by the power of fun. 

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The Mighty Writers Podcast with Maureen Boland is produced by Mighty Writers in partnership with Rowhome Productions. The executive producer is Tim Whitaker. Lead producer is Danya AbdelHameid. Rowhome’s executive producers are Alex Lewis and John Myers.

Our theme song was composed by Jim Morgan.

This episode also includes music from Blue Dot Sessions.