Memory Makers Podcast

In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta takes a moment to interview Scott Logan from Grand Station Entertainment to share how to leverage your staff's special skills. Scott shares how he and his team are revolutionizing customer experiences with innovative strategies like 3D printing to enhance arcade layouts, streamline operations, and create unforgettable memories. Pl...

In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening discuss the insights they gained from your fellow FEC industry leaders! After attended several events as of late, industry peers have provided us with their knowledge on adapting marketing strategies, embracing flexibility and experimentation, as well as what successful customer engagement looks likes. Plu...

In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening discuss why cinemas are adding FEC components to their theaters and what it means for the industry. From parallels with the bowling industry to insights on guest service experiences, there is a lot to unpack with this new player coming into the mix.

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening explore how the 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell can be remixed to elevate your FEC business to a new level. From creating emotional connections to serving your community with purpose, discover actionable strategies to enhance customer experiences and drive success.

In this week's Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening explore "Gap vs Gain Thinking", a mindset set out by Benjamin Hardy and Dan Sullivan. In their book, they advocate for evaluating progress without blinders and share insights on the demoralizing nature of constantly chasing an idealized future. Danny & Russ emphasize measuring gains, building confidence, and appreciating...

For this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening talk through the importance of cultivating a vibrant company culture. Taking from our own example, we discuss how the team at Creative Works recently embarked on a staff outing at Combat Ops Entertainment. From this experience, Russ and Danny share practical tips on fostering teamwork, creating memorable connect...

For this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening talk about the necessary skill of delegation. From the pitfalls of wanting to control everything to the fear of failure, they discuss common challenges faced by leaders and managers. Russ and Danny talk through real-life example of delegation in action, using a simple four-step framework: "Watch me do it, We do...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening discuss the benefits of 2 Second LEAN, a book by Paul Akers. Through the lens of Paul's book, we talk about practical strategies for eliminating waste and improving efficiency in any business setting. From identifying the eight categories of waste to implementing the three S's (Sweep, Sort, Standardize), Russ and...

For this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening discuss the importance of tackling the "boring stuff" in both personal and professional life. From morning routines to business operations, this episode covers how embracing discipline leads to freedom and accomplishment. You won't what to miss this episode chalk full of motivation, practical tips, and a reminde...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening explain how to understand VR categories in a marketplace where the options feel overwhelming. In this episode, learn how to understand your audience, align VR choices with operational strengths, explore appropriate pricing models, and make staff training an immersive and enjoyable experience. They emphasize the n...

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening discuss strategies for managing stressful seasons, preventing burnout, and fostering a resilient team. They provide useful tips and techniques such as reframing your perspective, the power of rhythms in work-life balance, and the importance of autonomy. You won't want to miss this one to be a better owner/manager...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, join hosts Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening discuss how we implement a 3-tier decision-making filters and how you can use them for your business. From memorable customer experiences to efficient team workflows, this episode unravels the intricacies of creating attractions that resonate with both end-users and businesses.

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny Gruening takes a moment to talk with Scott Logan, a seasoned industry professional from Grand Station Entertainment out of College Station, Texas, to share his insights into building and managing a 7000-square-foot facility featuring 40 bowling lanes, laser tag, mini golf, an 80-game arcade, bars, and more! From starting as an arcade manager to b...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, join hosts Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening as they discuss setting clear expectations for team success, identifying key performance indicators (KPIs), and ensuring team members are empowered to take autonomous action. Danny and Russ emphasize the importance of observing soft skills, such as body language and energy, especially for roles like a laser...

For this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, join hosts Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening as they discuss how to select a location for an FEC, and why it's more complicated than just price and size. From navigating zoning challenges to assessing the vibe of the area, they share valuable insights to ensure you don't make common mistakes.

For this SPECIAL EDITION of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta talk ALL about IAAPA, the ultimate gathering for entertainment industry professionals. Amidst the bustling show floor, they share insights on turning overwhelming experiences into actionable strategies to ensure you are set up for success after the show!

For this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta hand the reins over to Armando Lanuti as he sits down with Trent Coggins of Recoil Trampoline Park to discuss how he turned an unexpected idea into a booming, profitable business. You won’t want to miss the insights from Trent on how he went from practicing law to becoming the ‘accidental entrepreneur’ behind the thri...

For this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, join Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta as they talk through John Maxwell's acclaimed work, 5 Levels Of Leadership. They discuss the different levels of leadership and how to go from a 'positional leadership' role to a 'pinnacle leadership' role with the intention of becoming a force for good both within your organization and in your community. If you'...

For this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, host Danny Gruening & Russ Van Natta explore essential team-building principles and the art of crafting outstanding customer experiences. This topic was heavily influenced by Patrick Lencioni's "The Ideal Team Player" and "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team," where he identifies the key elements of self-awareness, trust, healthy conflict, commitment, acc...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, host Danny Gruening & Russ Van Natta discuss the results of a survey conducted by the AAMA (American Amusement Machine Association) committees, shedding light on the rapidly growing popularity of VR attractions.

In this SPECIAL edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Jeff Gebhart and Craig Wescott of Five Star Parks & Attractions to various crucial aspects of the FEC industry, shedding light on their growth and scaling strategies, focusing on the significance of teamwork, community engagement, and upholding the reputation of established brands. They also dive into the intricaci...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta share essential marketing strategies for family entertainment centers. They discuss the importance of creating marketing personas, using social media effectively, optimizing your website, and delivering segmented email marketing. You won't want to skip this episode for practical insights to enhance your customer...

For this installment of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta discuss one of the industries most tried and true attractions, Laser Tag! From the excitement of briefing and vesting to the heart-pounding game itself, they'll guide you through every step to provide the experience your guests demand to earn the profits you desire. Plus, learn how these principles can eleva...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, we're coming to you from the Amusement 360 stage! It's here that we dive into a game-changing concept: "Who Not How." from Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy. When you find the right individuals to collaborate with, they can take your business further, faster. From improving operational efficiency to fostering personal growth, this episode offers insi...

Tune in to this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast as Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta share their insights with ongoing training and how it can positively impact your family entertainment center. We converse the concepts of 'LEAN Manufacturing', the importance of being intentional in training, and the value of bringing in outside voices for fresh perspectives. Plus, discover how gamific...