I Can’t Believe I’m 60! From Hoops to Hip Replacement – Brian Butler’s -Podcast

In this episode of I Can’t Believe I’m 60! From Hoops to Hip Replacement, Brian sits down with legendary voice of DC-area sports, Byron Kerr, a conversation made even more fun by their double connection.

First, in Brian’s former life as an educator, Byron’s kids attended his school. Small world, right? Second and maybe more full-circle, Byron has been the play-by-play voice of George Washington Basketball for the past two decades, while Brian played at GW(1983-1987)… just a few years before he started calling games 😉.

Byron’s story is one of movement, passion, and finding your voice literally.

✈️ From Air Force Brat to Virginia Fixture

Raised as an Air Force brat, Byron grew up everywhere from Alabama and New York to Japan, Colorado, Nebraska, California, and Virginia. That early exposure to the world fueled a lifelong love of travel, whether across the U.S. or throughout Europe.

He’s also a diehard sports fan who loves being in the building including attending two Super Bowls in person.

Byron has called Virginia home since the 1980s, attending Woodbridge High School and later UVA, where he earned an Army ROTC scholarship. A multi-sport athlete, he played basketball and tennis in high school.

🎧 A Career Behind the Mic

Byron’s broadcasting résumé is as deep as it is impressive:

• Play-by-play announcer
  • George Mason Basketball (13 years)
  • George Washington Basketball (20 years)
• Called games for GMU, GW, Maryland, Virginia Tech, UVA, and VCU
• National broadcasts for:
  • Westwood One
  • Pac-12 College Football
  • Big Ten Network (Maryland Football)
• Called multiple NCAA Tournament games and the 2016 NIT Championship
• PA Announcer:
  • NBA Washington Bullets
  • DC United
  • CAA Tournament
  • USA Basketball
  • NWSL Championship
  • MLS Cup
• Play-by-play voice of the Washington Mystics for 7 seasons
• TV & Radio host/journalist for the Washington Nationals (14 years)
• Sports announcer at WTOP and WJFK
• Journalist for MLB.com and Associated Press (AP)

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family First

At the center of it all is the family of Byron, his wife Lisa, and their three kids.

This episode is full of laughs, memories, behind-the-scenes sports stories, and reflections on how life has a funny way of bringing people back together sometimes decades later, and sometimes through a microphone.

🎧 Whether you love sports, storytelling, or just a great life journey, this one’s for you.

To find out more about Byron go to: https://about.me/byronkerr

This episode, the first of season 2, in 2026 (#16 overall) is extra special for Brian. Kas Allen and Brian have been dear friends since they first met in 1983, back when she was starring on the women’s basketball team, and Brian was grinding it out on the men’s team.

Kas’s journey weaves together elite athletics, resilience through injury, academic excellence, international experiences, and a lifelong commitment to helping others heal through her physical therapy practice in Los Angeles.

🏀 Basketball Roots & College Stardom

• Wakefield High School
  • Averaged 23 points and 11 rebounds per game
  • Team captain for Potomac District Champions
  • Selected to the All-Met Team
• George Washington University
  • Freshman year: 22 points and 10 rebounds per game
  • Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year
  • Third all-time single-game scorer at GW with a 37-point performance at East Carolina
  • Overcame a major back injury in 1984, returning to play three more seasons
  • Finished her career with 1,502 points and 878 rebounds
  • Senior year honors:
    • Atlantic 10 Academic All-Conference (Honorable Mention)
    • GW Abbie Oliver Smith Award for Academic & Athletic Excellence
  • First women’s basketball player inducted into the GW Hall of Fame

🌍 Life Beyond the Court

• Fun Fact: After graduating from GW, Kas spent 1988 in Seoul, Korea, helping the Seoul Olympic Committee prepare basketball venues for the Men’s and Women’s Olympics and the Paralympics
• Moved to Los Angeles to earn her Master’s degree in Physical Therapy
• Today, Kas owns and operates her own physical therapy practice in Los Angeles, specializing in orthopedics

🏈 Another Fun Fact (and a Rose Bowl Ring!)

• 1993–1994: Worked as a physical therapist for UCLA Athletics
• Received a Rose Bowl ring and watch when UCLA played Wisconsin 😊

🌱 Small World Moments

• GW later recruited Kas’s nephew, Eddie Muhl, from Los Angeles
• When legendary GW coach Gregg Ritchie (’86) asked Eddie why GW was on his list, he mentioned many reasons—including his Aunt Kas Allen
• Eddie went on to have a very successful career at GW as a relief pitcher

This conversation is about more than basketball, it’s about resilience, lifelong friendships, giving back, and evolving with purpose. Kas’s path from elite athlete to trusted healer is a reminder that the lessons we learn on the court stay with us long after the final buzzer.

After being on Hiatus for 6 months, Brian will be dropping new shows early in 2026!

Charles Cobbertt Jr. is a 26-year U.S. Air Force veteran and retired First Sergeant who enjoyed a 20-year career as a Principal Engineer at Verizon. Now living in Columbus, Ohio, Charles has fully embraced retirement, launching three YouTube channels covering firearms, outdoor adventures, and his Polaris Slingshot. Whether kayaking Ohio’s rivers, riding through town, or reviewing gear on Retired First Shirt, Charles is proving that 60 is just a new beginning.

In the show, Charles talks with Brian about his early years in Orange, New Jersey, his musical talents, his brief stint in college before he ran out of money, and his career in the Air Force that took him to many places around the world to serve our country and as well to play football. Charles also talks about his hip and shoulder surgeries, life after 60, and advice he would give his 20-something-year-old self. Today, he enjoys living in Columbus, Ohio. And loving being able to pick and choose his schedule. Charles has been a New York Giants season ticket holder for 14 years. You can find Charles on YouTube at the links below:

Retired First Shirt - YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/@RetiredFirstShirt

Cobbertt Outdoors - YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/@Cobberttoudoors

Bike-n-Brothers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQJni0SmPzo

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In episode 13, Brian continues his conversation with his college friend for over 40 years, Heather Mitchell, who played on George Washington's Women's Basketball team while he played on the men's team.

Heather is a trailblazing producer, creative director, and lifelong storyteller whose career has spanned iconic sports networks and international stages.

Heather moved to Fairfield from Bridgeport, Connecticut, at age 11 and later graduated from Roger Ludlowe High School. She went on to attend George Washington University (go Colonials!), where she walked on to the women’s basketball team and eventually became co-captain—an experience that laid the foundation for her future in media and leadership.

Heather began her media journey as an intern at WRC-TV for The George Michael Sports Machine. She eventually landed at Major League Baseball Productions, where she spent 16 years working from logger to senior producer. Highlights of her MLB career include:

· A one-on-one interview with President Bill Clinton

· Producing and editing a Jackie Robinson documentary that premiered at the Apollo Theater

· Serving as Producer/Editor for This Week In Baseball with Mel Allen

· On-location producing and editing for multiple World Series Films

For the past 22 years, Heather has served as a Creative Director at WWE. Her work has taken her around the globe, producing projects in China, Iraq, Rwanda, Australia, and beyond. She directed Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson on various locations for the network special Once In A Lifetime and co-directed and edited Women's Evolution, a documentary tracing the powerful history of women in WWE. She also directed WWE Champion Kofi Kingston in the Ghana-based documentary Year of Return.

Heather is currently working on telling the story of her grandparents who were married for over 80 years.

You Can Find: I Can’t Believe I’m 60 – From Hoops to Hip Replacement on:

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In episode 12, Brian speaks with a college friend for over 40 years, Heather Mitchell, who played on George Washington's Women's Basketball team while he played on the men's team.

Heather is a trailblazing producer, creative director, and lifelong storyteller whose career has spanned iconic sports networks and international stages.

Heather moved to Fairfield from Bridgeport, Connecticut, at age 11 and later graduated from Roger Ludlowe High School. She went on to attend George Washington University (go Colonials!), where she walked on to the women’s basketball team and eventually became co-captain—an experience that laid the foundation for her future in media and leadership.

Heather began her media journey as an intern at WRC-TV for The George Michael Sports Machine. She eventually landed at Major League Baseball Productions, where she spent 16 years working from logger to senior producer. Highlights of her MLB career include:

• A one-on-one interview with President Bill Clinton
• Producing and editing a Jackie Robinson documentary that premiered at the Apollo Theater
• Serving as Producer/Editor for This Week In Baseball with Mel Allen
• On-location producing and editing for multiple World Series Films

For the past 22 years, Heather has served as a Creative Director at WWE. Her work has taken her around the globe, producing projects in China, Iraq, Rwanda, Australia, and beyond. She directed Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson on various locations for the network special Once In A Lifetime and co-directed and edited Women's Evolution, a documentary tracing the powerful history of women in WWE. She also directed WWE Champion Kofi Kingston in the Ghana-based documentary Year of Return.

You Can Find: I Can’t Believe I’m 60 – From Hoops to Hip Replacement on:

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"On today's episode of I Can't Believe I'm 60! From Hoops to Hip Replacement! I'm joined by my longtime friend Mark Ausbrooks, who is not quite 60 yet and is fast approaching the milestone! Mark and I first met in the mid-1990s when we worked at the same high school, and we've been friends ever since.

A native Washingtonian, Mark is an educator by day and a television production pro by night.

He's also the Director of Development for Deuce and Marleigh Ausbrooks, a title only parents truly understand! Married for over 30 years, Mark has spent the past 25 years living with an artificial hip, making him well-qualified for the Hoops to Hip Replacement part of this show.

He's also an avid reader and a member of an African American book club where they read and discuss at least a chapter weekly, a genuine commitment to lifelong learning.

🎙️ Podcast Guest Bio – Kenny Barer

Kenny Barer is a former professional basketball player, coach, and lifelong friend of host Brian Butler. Born in New York City and raised in Roslyn, Long Island, Kenny played college basketball at George Washington University before taking his talents to France, where he enjoyed a five-year pro career. After hanging up his jersey, Kenny dedicated himself to coaching, mentoring athletes at the high school and collegiate level, including stops at Bunnell High School, Wright State, LIU Brooklyn, and UMass Lowell.

Today, he’s the Associate Director and part-owner of Mohawk Day Camp in White Plains, New York, where he brings his signature energy, positivity, and leadership to kids and families every summer.

A proud husband to Aryn and father of three, Kenny is fluent in French, a devoted fan of Chinese food and golf, and has an undeniable love for the color orange. Whether he's still getting buckets on the court (just don’t ask him to defend), coaching the next generation, or lighting up the room with his enthusiasm, Kenny is a true original—and a friend for life.

📄 Show Notes – Episode Title:

"From Hoops in France to Coaching and Camp Life: Kenny Barer's Journey" (Bonus subtitle: “I Can’t Believe I’m 60! From Hoops to Hip Replacement!”)

On today’s episode, I’m joined by someone who’s been like a brother to me for over 40 years—Kenny Barer, my former teammate at George Washington University and one of the most upbeat, passionate people I know.

We dive into Kenny’s inspiring journey from the hardwood to the sidelines and beyond, reflecting on his professional basketball career in France, his impactful years as a coach, and his current role running one of the most beloved day camps in New York.

🗣️ In this episode:

• Growing up in Long Island and discovering a love for the game
• Life overseas as a professional basketball player
• What coaching taught him—and what his players taught him
• Why camp life is his current passion
• Staying active (and still shooting!) at nearly 60
• French fluency, Chinese food cravings, golf obsession, and… the color orange
• Reflections on friendship, family, and keeping the joy alive at any age

🎯 Whether you’re a coach, athlete, educator, or someone reflecting on life’s transitions, Kenny’s story is a reminder that passion and positivity are lifelong superpowers.

🎙️ Podcast Guest Bio – Kenny Barer

Kenny Barer is a former professional basketball player, coach, and lifelong friend of host Brian Butler. Born in New York City and raised in Roslyn, Long Island, Kenny played college basketball at George Washington University before taking his talents to France, where he enjoyed a five-year pro career. After hanging up his jersey, Kenny dedicated himself to coaching, mentoring athletes at the high school and collegiate level, including stops at Bunnell High School, Wright State, LIU Brooklyn, and UMass Lowell.

Today, he’s the Associate Director and part-owner of Mohawk Day Camp in White Plains, New York, where he brings his signature energy, positivity, and leadership to kids and families every summer.

A proud husband to Aryn and father of three, Kenny is fluent in French, a devoted fan of Chinese food and golf, and has an undeniable love for the color orange. Whether he's still getting buckets on the court (just don’t ask him to defend), coaching the next generation, or lighting up the room with his enthusiasm, Kenny is a true original—and a friend for life.

📄 Show Notes – Episode Title:

"From Hoops in France to Coaching and Camp Life: Kenny Barer's Journey" (Bonus subtitle: “I Can’t Believe I’m 60! From Hoops to Hip Replacement!”)

On today’s episode, I’m joined by someone who’s been like a brother to me for over 40 years—Kenny Barer, my former teammate at George Washington University and one of the most upbeat, passionate people I know.

We dive into Kenny’s inspiring journey from the hardwood to the sidelines and beyond, reflecting on his professional basketball career in France, his impactful years as a coach, and his current role running one of the most beloved day camps in New York.

🗣️ In this episode:

• Growing up in Long Island and discovering a love for the game
• Life overseas as a professional basketball player
• What coaching taught him—and what his players taught him
• Why camp life is his current passion
• Staying active (and still shooting!) at nearly 60
• French fluency, Chinese food cravings, golf obsession, and… the color orange
• Reflections on friendship, family, and keeping the joy alive at any age

🎯 Whether you’re a coach, athlete, educator, or someone reflecting on life’s transitions, Kenny’s story is a reminder that passion and positivity are lifelong superpowers.

On today's episode (part 2 of 2) of I Can’t Believe I’m 60! From Hoops to Hip Replacement! I'm joined by someone who has been a friend for over 40 years—my former George Washington University teammate and co-captain during our senior year, Dr. Steve Frick. Steve has had an incredible career as a pediatric orthopedic surgeon, educator, and researcher, dedicating 27 years to helping children. He completed his orthopedic residency at MUSC Charlotte and a fellowship in pediatric orthopedics in San Diego.

Beyond his career, Steve has been married for 38 years, has two kids, Rachel and Eric, who are married and is a proud grandfather to three granddaughters. While basketball was his world from ages 14 to 22, these days, he enjoys helping children, reading, playing golf, and fishing."**

Biography:

Dr. Steve Frick is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in pediatric orthopedic surgery. His clinical focus includes foot and ankle disorders, fractures and injuries, osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease), skeletal dysplasia, and neurofibromatosis. He is a professor and associate dean at Wake Forest University School of Medicine Charlotte campus and has been named a Top Doctor by Charlotte Magazine multiple times.

A past president of the Pediatric Orthopedic Society of North America, Dr. Frick has also received the Teacher of the Year award from both Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center and Stanford University. His research interests include pediatric trauma, congenital clubfoot, and leadership development in medicine. He has edited two textbooks on pediatric orthopedic trauma.

Dr. Frick received his bachelor’s degree in zoology at The George Washington University and his medical degree from the Medical University of South Carolina. He completed his orthopedic residency at Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center and a fellowship in pediatric orthopedic surgery at the University of California, San Diego.

When he's not helping children or teaching the next generation of surgeons, Steve enjoys walking and training their Hungarian vizsla dog, hiking, cycling, playing golf, fishing, and reading nonfiction.

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