Episodes

  • Ep. 72 - How Interactive Laser Tag Arenas Improve the Experience with Shane Zimmerman of Delta Strike

    Ep. 72 - How Interactive Laser Tag Arenas Improve the Experience with Shane Zimmerman of Delta Strike
    Jan 8 2025
    In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Shane Zimmerman of Delta Strike to talk about how interactive Laser Tag arenas improve the experience. They discuss how operators can enhance their game offerings through operational fluency and innovation, emphasizing the importance of staff members as emotional connectors to the experience. They also touch on the evolution of briefing rooms, where automation and theatrical elements work together to deliver a more immersive experience. Russ and Shane also chat about laser tag pricing strategies, from all-inclusive packages to pay-per-play models, and how these can influence guest satisfaction and revenue growth. You won't want to miss this episode.
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    40 mins
  • Ep. 71 - What This Mini Golf Expert Learned from Playing 2,000 Courses - Interview with Brooks Holt

    Ep. 71 - What This Mini Golf Expert Learned from Playing 2,000 Courses - Interview with Brooks Holt
    Jan 2 2025
    In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta welcomes Brooks Holt, a YouTube creator with over 200,000 subscribers, known for showcasing unique mini golf courses. Brooks shares insights into how authenticity and passion have driven his channel’s growth, offering tips on how you too can cultivating a genuine connection with your guests. Brooks highlights the importance of clean, well-maintained courses and how standout features, like creative theming and innovative design, can elevate your mini-golf attraction.
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    33 mins
  • Ep. 70 - 11 Questions to Plan your Best Year Ever

    Ep. 70 - 11 Questions to Plan your Best Year Ever
    Dec 18 2024
    In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening ask 11 questions to plan your BEST year ever! They offer thought-provoking questions to help you celebrate successes, distill wisdom from challenges, and plan for massive growth in the year ahead. Discover how to identify your favorite failure, set relationship goals, and create more daily joy. Finish strong and step into 2025 with intention and purpose. Don’t miss this guide to ending the year on a high note and making 2025 your best yet!
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    35 mins
  • Ep. 69 - How to Build a Strong Digital Brand for Your FEC Featuring Rebecca Twomey of Party Center Software

    Ep. 69 - How to Build a Strong Digital Brand for Your FEC Featuring Rebecca Twomey of Party Center Software
    Dec 10 2024
    In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Rebecca Twomey, President at Party Center Software, to discuss how to build a strong digital brand for your FEC. As part of the Amusement 360 Partnership series, Rebecca shares actionable insights on branding that go beyond just logos and websites—exploring how every touchpoint, from facility decor to social media, shapes customer perception and loyalty. They discuss the importance of listening to guests, responding to reviews (both good and bad), and turning complaints into opportunities for building loyalty. The conversation touches on managing your brand’s digital reputation across platforms like Google, Yelp, and Facebook, and understanding generational trends in social media use. They also share insights on using digital marketing strategies—such as organic content, paid ads, and geofencing—to drive foot traffic and boost revenue.
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    43 mins
  • Ep. 68 The Evolution of Laser Tag Featuring Chris Epstein of Laserforce International

    Ep. 68 The Evolution of Laser Tag Featuring Chris Epstein of Laserforce International
    Nov 27 2024
    In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Chris Epstein, Business Development Officer at Laserforce International, to discuss the evolution of laser tag. As part of the Amusement 360 Partnership series, Chris shares his journey from a passionate player to an industry leader, highlighting how advancements in technology are transforming the guest experience. They discuss how innovative game formats, community building, and nontraditional applications—like fitness tracking—are keeping laser tag fresh and exciting for all ages. Tune in for insights on crafting memorable experiences that go beyond the attraction!
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    23 mins
  • Ep. 67 - Innovation Is A Loaded Word: The 2024 IAAPA Special

    Ep. 67 - Innovation Is A Loaded Word: The 2024 IAAPA Special
    Nov 18 2024
    In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening are coming to you straight from the bustling IAAPA show floor! 🚀 This episode dives into the buzzword innovation—what it really means and how small adjustments can create game-changing solutions. Highlights include the evolution of pinball into redemption-based play with Pinball XP, new space-efficient Lucky Putt Bar Games, and creative laser tag innovations that enhance gameplay. Tune in for insights on blending technology, creativity, and customer experience into unforgettable attractions. 🎢✨ Listen now and keep making those powerful memories!
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    13 mins
  • Ep. 66 - How to Choose Attractions for LBE Venues Featuring Clint Novak of A&A Global

    Ep. 66 - How to Choose Attractions for LBE Venues Featuring Clint Novak of A&A Global
    Nov 12 2024
    On this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Clint Novak, Business Development Manager at A&A Global, for an episode that dives into how to choose attractions for a Location-Based Entertainment venue. As part of the Amusement 360 Partnership series, Clint shares his journey from ride operator to FEC industry expert, highlighting the strategies that helped him transform Funland of Fredericksburg into a top FEC. This episode is packed with practical insights, including Clint’s top tips on evaluating new attractions, working with local governments, and building strong relationships with manufacturers. This is a MUST listen for everyone.
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    37 mins
  • Ep. 65 - How to Build a Positive Culture with Brad and Keri Little of High 5

    Ep. 65 - How to Build a Positive Culture with Brad and Keri Little of High 5
    Nov 6 2024
    In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta is joined by Brad and Keri Little of High 5 to share how to build a positive culture. Brad and Kerri discuss their unique approach to leadership, including regular team-building rituals, personal development initiatives, and even how they "walk the walk" by ensuring that every team member upholds their core values. For anyone passionate about building a workplace that feels like a community, this episode is a must-listen!
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    38 mins