Mad Props host Chris Schnabel sits down with Jordan Ta’amu — quarterback for the DC Defenders and former NFL QB — for a fun, competitive, and behind-the-scenes conversation that blends football, friendship, and everything in-between. From Hawaii to Ole Miss (SEC) to the pros, Jordan breaks down his journey, his mindset, and what it’s like navigating pro opportunities across leagues — plus stories from the road, gaming battles, and the real competitive edge that fueled a championship run.

Jordan Ta’amu: Jordan Ta’amu is a quarterback from O‘ahu, Hawaii, who rose from junior college (New Mexico Military Institute) to Ole Miss, where he became a productive SEC starter and set program marks. He later earned NFL opportunities (including time with the Houston Texans and Kansas City Chiefs) and became a standout in spring football, leading the DC Defenders and building a reputation as a dynamic playmaker and leader.

Subscribe for weekly interviews with athletes, creators, entertainers, and industry leaders.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jordan_taamu10

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madpropod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@madpropod

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisschnabel
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chris.schnabel

Episode Produced by Chris Schnabel
Episode Edited by Chris Schnabel
Mad Props is a Schnabel Studios Production

00:00 – Intro: Jordan Ta’amu joins Mad Props + “we compete over EVERYTHING”
02:11 – Friendship + DC Defenders season connection
03:09 – Super Smash Brothers rivalry (and the bus battles)
06:28 – “Olympic day” competitions: hoops, bowling, air hockey, more
07:34 – From Hawaii to Ole Miss: the recruiting journey
09:14 – Junior college at New Mexico Military Institute (military rules + full ride)
11:13 – Committing to Ole Miss + stepping in after injury
13:56 – NCAA eligibility frustrations + rule changes
16:47 – Draft process: combine medicals + torn ACL discovery
20:07 – Texans → XFL opportunity + COVID shutting everything down
23:54 – Sports during COVID + getting the call to the Chiefs
25:27 – NFL COVID era + unexpected attention and pressure
31:28 – Favorite games: Mortal Kombat + arcade competitiveness
36:14 – Video Game Museum + Dallas spots to compete
38:15 – Baseball background + how it shaped his QB game
44:51 – Basketball rematch challenge + competitive mentality
48:21 – Offseason life in Nashville: training athletes + teaching classes
50:26 – Building QB camps + turning experience into a program
55:48 – The “Smash before the championship” story + title run
57:28 – Outro + where to follow Jordan and Mad Props

Phil LaMarr joins Mad Props with Chris Schnabel for a wide-ranging conversation on voice acting, animation, and building one of the most versatile careers in entertainment.

Phil is best known for his iconic roles as Hermes Conrad (Futurama), Samurai Jack, Green Lantern (Justice League), and his on-screen role in Pulp Fiction, but his career spans decades across animation, television, film, video games, and live action.

In this episode, Phil breaks down how he got into voice acting, the discipline behind sustaining a long-term career in Hollywood, and what separates good voice actors from great ones. He also shares behind-the-scenes stories from major animated series, lessons learned from working across genres, and advice for creatives trying to find longevity in a competitive industry.

Whether you grew up watching Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, or DC Animation, or you’re interested in the craft of voice acting itself, this episode delivers insight, nostalgia, and real talk from one of the most respected voices in the business.

Phil LaMarr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phillamarr

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@phillamarr

Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/phillamarr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PhilLaMarrOfficial

Mad Props Podcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madpropod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@madpropod

Chris Schnabel

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisschnabel

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chris.schnabel

Episode Produced by Joe Brown

Episode Edited by Chris Schnabel

Mad Props is a Schnabel Studios Production

Chapters:

0:00 – Intro: Phil LaMarr Joins Mad Props
2:30 – Breaking Into Acting & Early Career Lessons
7:45 – Transitioning into Voice Acting
13:10 – Becoming Hermes on Futurama
20:30 – Creating Samurai Jack & Finding Emotional Range
28:00 – Voice Acting vs On-Camera Acting
35:40 – Longevity in Animation & Hollywood
44:10 – Working Across TV, Film, and Video Games
52:30 – Advice for Aspiring Voice Actors
1:00:00 – Legacy Roles & Fan Impact
1:08:00 – Final Thoughts & Rapid Fire

Legendary voice actor Rob Paulsen joins Mad Props with Chris Schnabel for a deep-dive conversation covering Animaniacs, Pinky and the Brain, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT), Jimmy Neutron, A Goofy Movie, and more. Rob shares stories from 40+ years in voice acting, plus his love for sports, hockey, the Detroit Red Wings, fandom culture, and the real impact of animation on generations of fans.

This episode blends voice actor interview, animation history, 90s cartoons nostalgia, Nickelodeon, Warner Bros animation, Disney, and behind-the-scenes Hollywood stories — plus Rob’s perspective on creativity, kindness, and longevity in entertainment.

FOLLOW ROB PAULSEN

Instagram: @rob_paulsen

TikTok: @robpaulson311

Facebook: Rob Paulsen (Voice Actor)

FOLLOW MAD PROPS/CHRIS SCHNABEL

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madpropspod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@madpropspod

X: https://www.x.com/madpropspod

Chris Schnabel

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisschnabel

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chris.schnabel

YouTube: @Chris.Schnabel

Try Audible today:
https://www.audibletrial.com/madpropspod
Start your 30-day free trial and get reading 📖

CHAPTERS

(00:00) Intro – Rob Paulsen Joins Mad Props

(02:55) Meeting Rob at Dallas Fan Expo
(05:46) Sports, Hockey & Growing Up in Michigan
(10:12) Breaking Into Voice Acting & Animation
(18:29) Gordie Howe, Fame & Fan Perspective
(30:00) Starstruck Moments & Hollywood Legends
(39:55) TMNT vs A Goofy Movie Pizza Debate
(47:57) Family, Gratitude & Career Perspective
(49:37) Space, Tech & Creative Curiosity
(58:56) Music, Performing Live & Creativity
(01:06:00) Billy Joel, Art & Longevity
(01:22:02) Dream Roles & Favorite Shows
(01:26:01) Looking Back on Iconic Voices
(01:31:27) Voice Lessons Book & Final Thoughts

Produced by Joe Brown

A Schnabel Studios Production

Welcome to Mad Props! Chris is joined by Mascot Trailblazer and original Phillie Phanatic Dave Raymond! Learn stories from the Phanatic, how he changed what a mascot is, and the power of happiness! #phillies #sports #podcast #philadelphia #mascot #baseballTry Audible today, head to https://www.audibletrial.com/madpropspod to start your 30-day free trial and get reading 📖Subscribe and follow for more captivating stories!Making Magic by Pat Williams:https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Making-Magic-How-Orlando-Team/dp/0941263118About Dave Raymond:Dave Raymond, the original Phillie Phanatic, is a trailblazer in sports entertainment and one of the creators of the modern mascot industry. For 15 years he brought the Phanatic to life, transforming fan engagement across MLB. Today, Dave leads Raymond Entertainment Group, designing mascots for pro teams and brands, speaking worldwide on leadership and joy, and sharing his signature philosophy from his book The Power of Fun.https://www.linkedin.com/in/daveraymondspeaks/https://daveraymondspeaks.com/https://raymondeg.com/https://www.instagram.com/dave.raymond.speaks/Follow Mad Props on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/madpropspodTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@madpropspodX- https://www.x.com/madpropspodFacebook- https://www.facebook.com/madpropspodYou can find Chris on Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/chrisschnabelTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@chris.schnabelYouTube -  @Chris.Schnabel  Episode Produced by Chris SchnabelMad Props is a Schnabel Studios ProductionChapters0:00 - Intro & Welcome0:14 - Chris Introduces Dave Raymond1:05 - How Dave First Got Into Mascots1:40 - Growing Up Around Baseball2:22 - First Exposure to Mascot Culture3:10 - Interning With the Phillies4:32 - Becoming the Phillie Phanatic5:45 - First Time in the Costume6:20 - Learning Mascot Performance on the Fly7:52 - Early Mistakes and Adjusting to the Role9:10 - Creating the Phanatic’s Personality10:15 - Comedy, Improvisation & Fan Reactions11:58 - Understanding Emotional Intelligence in a Suit13:10 - Best Early Fan Moments14:20 - Kids’ Reactions and Family Interactions15:50 - On-Field Antics and Player Stories17:25 - Hidden Challenges Behind the Costume18:40 - Travel Stories and Road Appearances20:15 - Strangest or Funniest Mascot Moments22:05 - What Made the Phanatic Stand Out23:40 - What He Learned About People From Mascot Work25:10 - Leaving the Phanatic After 15 Years26:40 - Identity Shift After Stepping Away28:00 - Starting a New Chapter in Life30:05 - Launching Raymond Entertainment Group31:30 - Designing Mascots for Other Teams33:00 - What Makes a Mascot Truly Great34:25 - Teams That “Get It” vs. Teams That Don’t35:45 - Favorite Mascot Projects38:49 - Creating the Power of Fun Philosophy40:10 - How Joy Translates to Leadership42:00 - What Companies Get Wrong About Fun44:15 - Bringing Mascot Principles Into Business45:05 - Evolution of Mascots Over the Decades46:30 - The Impact of Social Media on Mascots48:20 - Modern Mascots Dave Admires49:45 - Thoughts on the Phanatic’s Legacy Today50:05 - Dave’s Personal Legacy and Reflections51:00 - Advice for Young Creatives & Performers51:35 - Closing Thoughts & Sign-Off

Welcome to Mad Props! Chris discusses his latest shoots with Aaron Judge and Chet Holmgren, as well as his assisted shoot with Dak Prescott. 🎙 Follow Mad Props:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madpropspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@madpropspodX: https://www.x.com/madpropspodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/madpropspod🧼 This episode is brought to you by Neakasa. Clean your space today at neakasa.com using code MadPropsPod.📚 Try Audible free: https://www.audibletrial.com/SchnabelStudios📺 Produced by Chris Schnabel & Hannah Robertson🎬 A Schnabel Studios ProductionChapters:

00:00 - Introduction and Podcast Updates

03:45 - Behind the Scenes of Recent Shoots

05:53 - Shooting with Chet Holmgren

09:17 - Traveling Challenges and Spirit Airlines Experience

13:34 - Arriving in New York and Fordham Camp

20:31 - Working with Aaron Judge and Camp Highlights

22:28 - Dak Prescott Shoot and Conclusion

Welcome to Mad Props! Chris discusses the end of his time with the United Football League and his role as part of the championship-winning team. 🎙 Follow Mad Props:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madpropspodTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@madpropspodX: https://www.x.com/madpropspodFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/madpropspod🧼 This episode is brought to you by Neakasa. Clean your space today at neakasa.com using code MadPropsPod.📚 Try Audible free: https://www.audibletrial.com/SchnabelStudios📺 Produced by Chris Schnabel & Hannah Robertson🎬 A Schnabel Studios ProductionChapters:

Welcome to Mad Props! Hannah and Chris discuss the Tony Awards, the aggressiveness of people from different states, and whether they suffer from embarrassment.

🎙 Follow Mad Props:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madpropspod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@madpropspod

X: https://www.x.com/madpropspod

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/madpropspod

🧼 This episode is brought to you by Neakasa. Clean your space today at neakasa.com using code MadPropsPod.

📚 Try Audible free: https://www.audibletrial.com/SchnabelStudios

📺 Produced by Chris Schnabel & Hannah Robertson

🎬 A Schnabel Studios Production

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction and Celebrations

02:30 - Weather Woes and Storm Stories

09:58 - Back to the Future Panel Experience

16:56 - Musical Moments and the Tonys

25:02 - Communication Challenges and Email Overload

29:40 - Navigating Communication Overload

32:02 - Theater Dreams and Musical Aspirations

34:28 - Travel Aspirations and Cultural Experiences

35:49 - Musical Instruments and Family Connections

38:58 - Stage Fright and Performance Anxiety

42:01 - Embracing Embarrassment and Personal Growth

46:01 - Confronting Social Norms and Assertiveness

48:53 - Talking to Oneself and Self-Reflection

Chris turns 32 in this special birthday episode of Mad Props!

📱 Follow Mary:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mutti_moves/

🎙 Follow Mad Props:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madpropspod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@madpropspod

X: https://www.x.com/madpropspod

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/madpropspod

🧼 This episode is brought to you by Neakasa. Clean your space today at neakasa.com using code MadPropsPod.

📚 Try Audible free: https://www.audibletrial.com/SchnabelStudios

📺 Produced by Chris Schnabel & Hannah Robertson

🎬 A Schnabel Studios Production

Chapters:

00:00 - Celebrating a Birthday and Podcast Milestones

02:59 - Special Guests and Birthday Surprises

05:15 - Reflections on Birthdays and Celebrations

10:12 - Experiences at Comic Con and Back to the Future

17:00 - Panel Insights and Nostalgia

22:00 - Meeting Icons and Celebrity Encounters

23:50 - The Introvert's Dream: Conventions and Connections

26:01 - Confidence vs. Cockiness: Navigating Social Norms

28:30 - Driving in Texas: A Cultural Shock

29:59 - Tornado Warnings: A Personal Perspective

31:56 - Comic Con Chronicles: A Birthday Tradition

36:02 - Memorable Encounters: Celebrities and Conventions

42:40 - Reflections on Last Year's Event

45:59 - Personal Growth and Future Goals

48:56 - Celebrating Birthdays and Favorite Foods

51:58 - Nostalgic Birthday Memories

54:01 - Concert Experiences and Celebrity Losses

57:59 - Looking Ahead: Aspirations and Podcast Growth

RaeAnn returns to the mic for our milestone 100th episode. Join hosts Chris Schnabel and Hannah Robertson as they reflect on the evolution of the Mad Props Podcast, their journey as co-hosts, how social media has changed podcasting, traveling through Austria, learning German, and celebrating you — our amazing fans who’ve supported us since day one.

Whether you’re a longtime listener or brand new, this episode is packed with personal stories, laughs, and real talk about life, content creation, and growth.

Timestamps / Chapters
00:00 - Celebrating Episode 10002:50 - The Evolution of Mad Props Podcast06:01 - The Journey of Co-Hosting08:59 - Social Media Landscape Changes12:03 - Travel Adventures in Austria15:07 - The Impact of Social Media on Podcasting29:47 - The Art of Communication and Language31:49 - Reflecting on Past Collaborations32:43 - Life Changes and Career Paths34:06 - Learning German: Challenges and Triumphs37:03 - Cultural Insights Through Language40:04 - Aging and Life Milestones44:11 - Drinking Age Differences: A Cultural Perspective48:11 - Navigating Content Creation Challenges50:14 - Celebrating Milestones and Future Aspirations

Support the Show & Our Partners
Try Audible free for 30 days: https://www.audibletrial.com/SchnabelStudios
Clean your home with Neakasa: https://neakasa.com — use code MadPropsPod to save

Follow Mad Props for More Behind-the-Scenes & Clips
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madpropspod
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@madpropspod
X (Twitter): https://www.x.com/madpropspod
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/madpropspod

Follow Schnabel Studios
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schnabel.studios
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schnabelstudios

Produced by: Chris Schnabel & Hannah Robertson
Mad Props is a Schnabel Studios Production

NFL kicker and entrepreneur Matt McCrane joins the show to talk football, his restaurant, and his journey.

📱 Follow Matt:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewmccrane/

🎙 Follow Mad Props:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madpropspod

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@madpropspod

X: https://www.x.com/madpropspod

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/madpropspod

🧼 This episode is brought to you by Neakasa. Clean your space today at neakasa.com using code MadPropsPod.

📚 Try Audible free: https://www.audibletrial.com/SchnabelStudios

📺 Produced by Chris Schnabel & Hannah Robertson

🎬 A Schnabel Studios Production

Chapters

0:00 - Introduction to Matt McCrane  

5:13 - Matt's Journey into Kicking  

10:23 - NFL Experiences and Challenges  

14:39 - The Cutthroat Nature of Kicking  

18:52 - Life Beyond Football: Restaurant Ventures  

20:09 - Real Estate and Business Aspirations  

27:51 - Navigating Life After Sports  

29:31 - The Importance of School Connections for Athletes  

32:33 - The Role of Education in College Sports  

34:31 - Navigating Academic Standards in College Football  

39:15 - The Journey to Division I Football  

42:43 - The Changing Landscape of Kicking Specialists  

44:10 - Mental Resilience in Professional Sports  

51:12 - Life After Football: Transitioning Careers