"The Voice of Dub Nation: From Radio Disney to Warriors Hype Man” with Franco Finn

Let’s make some noise!This week on the Here's What We Know Podcast, host Gary Scott Thomas shared an engaging conversation with Franco Finn, known as "the hype man” for his energetic presence and booming voice that fans heard inside Chase Center and the Oakland Arena before that, during Golden State Warriors home games for two decades. We delve into his fascinating world, where he opens up about his unexpected start in entertainment, his passion for radio and basketball, and how he became a renowned auctioneer. Plus, listen in for exciting NBA insider stories that could only be told by Franco, one of Dub Nation’s most beloved figures and a true maverick in sports entertainment!So, stay tuned for this epic ride full of passion, laughter, and heartfelt stories! Let's go Warriors!In this Episode:Unexpected Beginnings: Discover how Franco stumbled into radio after majoring in TV production at Santa Clara University and initially aspiring to work behind the scenes.Rise to Radio Disney Fame: Learn about Franco's first gig at Radio Disney San Francisco during the boy band explosion era and how he worked his way up from promotions to becoming "Freestyle Franco," captivating audiences with live remotes.Warriors' Hype Master: Hear about the pivotal moment when performing as an emcee at a Hilary Duff concert led to him being discovered by Golden State Warriors executives who were seeking a dynamic host for their games.Auctioneering Adventures: Gain insights into how Franco combined his on-mic energy with auction skills after attending auction school, leading him to become successful in charity auctions.Disney Discipline: Understand how working under strict brand standards set by Disney helped shape Finn’s professionalism and adaptability across various entertainment segments.Championing Underdogs: Relive the early days when hyping up crowds was challenging due to less successful seasons but prepared him for energizing fans through every high-stakes situation.NBA Recognition and All-Star Hosting: Reflect on Franco’s recognition within NBA circles which culminated in hosting duties during all-star weekends—a testament to his industry-wide impact as an entertainer.This episode is sponsored by:Habana Cuba (Be sure to use code "Gary20" to get 20% off your order!)A Flood of LoveBio:Franco Finn is a first-generation San Francisco native. Growing up,  Franco graduated with a B.A. in Communications at Santa Clara University, studying television, and film production.  Currently, Franco manages the Community Relations and Engagement efforts for the state of California at Alaska Airlines, while also serving as their company media spokesperson, host, and travel influencer.  When Franco is not working his business & corporate jobs, people may also recognize him and his voice over the last 20 years as the in-arena MC/Host and TV Personality for the NBA World Champion Golden State Warriors. Now in his 20th season, many fans of the beloved sports franchise, fittingly know him as the “Hypeman" at the new Chase Center in San Francisco, where he energizes and entertains the often sold-out crowd of 18,000+ fans every night. Franco is also the first and only Filipino/Asian American “Hypeman” in the NBA.  Franco Finn is also a well-known professional auctioneer, nicknamed the “Hypeman Auctioneer”, where he shares his voice and influence at many charity benefits, galas, celebrity events, and all types of fundraiser events all around the San Francisco Bay Area, the country & beyond.  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/francofinn/www.GaryScottThomas.com