Memory Makers Podcast

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ and Danny dive into the evolving landscape of Family Entertainment Centers (FECs), exploring the crucial differences between short-term fads and long-term industry trends. From the rise of mixed reality and personalized guest data to the game-changing efficiencies of AI and hybrid revenue models, we provide a "tasting menu" of the innovations that...

In this holiday edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta takes a moment to step back from the usual interviews to celebrate a year of memories and shares what's ahead. Reflecting on a massive year that saw viewership spike by over 122%, Russ shares exclusive data from Spotify and YouTube that highlights what truly resonates with the FEC industry—from deep dives into opening new venues...

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening strip away the post-pandemic "baggage" of the word pivot to explore business pivoting strategies for FECs. They discuss the psychological hurdles, such as the sunk cost fallacy and ego, that keep leaders stuck in failing patterns and introduce a powerful decision-making framework categorized by hats, haircuts, and tatt...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Creative Works Owner & President, Armando Lanuti, to unpack one of the biggest hidden challenges operators face: how to find (and fix) the real issues in your business. Armando exposes why many business owners only solve surface-level problems rather than the root issues. From weekly team pulse checks to the power of simpl...

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta shares his biggest takeaways from weeks on the road and a powerful week in Orlando at IAAPA 2025. From emerging FEC trends like compact physical experiences, micro-escape rooms, and tech-driven engagement, to operators boosting revenue through smart new additions, Russ breaks down what’s resonating right now. He also highlights the growi...

In this special episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, we come to you straight from the show floor at IAAPA, where Russ and Danny break down the mindset of sprint vs marathon in business. This episode digs into how operators and vendors alike can avoid burnout, anticipate roadblocks, stay focused on what actually moves the needle, and maintain the consistency needed to create powerful and emotional...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Bob McCall, Principal at JKRP Architects, to discuss how the right architect can save you time, money, and headaches. Bob shares how early collaboration with your architect can prevent costly mistakes, streamline development, and create smarter, more profitable family entertainment centers. He shares expert insights on com...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny flips the script and interviews longtime host Russ Van Natta, diving into how leaders can be curious, not assumptive. From industry evolution and leadership growth to the power of curiosity and intentional reflection, Russ shares insights on what it takes to create memorable, meaningful experiences for both guests and team members. He also opens...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with John Feltz from Betson Enterprises to discuss how small changes drive big profits in your FEC. As part of the Amusement 360 Partner Series, John shares how simple, strategic adjustments, like rotating your game layout every few months, can make your arcade feel brand new and boost revenue without major investments. From op...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Nate Murray of Delta Strike for an in-depth conversation about mastering modern laser tag operations. As part of the Amusement 360 Partner Series, Nate peels back the curtain on how operators can fine-tune every part of the experience—from game formats and tech integration to storytelling and guest flow. Russ and Nate swap...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Sara Paz, Chief Marketing & Growth Officer at Embed, for an insightful in how FEC operators can use data for business decisions and improving efficiency. As part of the Amusement 360 Partner Series, Sara dives into how operators can remove friction, optimize the guest journey, and futureproof their business through smart,...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Derek Rodner, Co-founder of Uplink Studios, about how to use STEM to enrich your customers. Derek shares how Uplink creates interactive experiences—like esports, golf simulators, and racing challenges—that engage the whole family while sparking curiosity and learning. He also highlights Uplink’s focus on community impact,...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta are live from Amusement 360 sharing how FEC owners make a difference in their communities. They share stories that stuck with them like Nic Parks of Level Up Entertainment in Columbia, MO donates his entire professor salary to a children’s hospital and created a fundraiser model that lets community groups keep 50% of a...

In this roadshow edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Chris Epstein of Laserforce from the Monster Mini Golf National Convention to discuss redemption, game modes, and secrets to successful laser tag operations. Together, they dive into how redemption is reshaping the laser tag experience, explore innovative game formats that keep players coming back, and share insid...

In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta dives into 5 ways to elevate special events at your FEC. He shares how you can unlock new revenue and stronger community ties by going beyond traditional birthday parties. Russ highlights creative ways to make events stand out, from themed celebrations and STEM-based programs to seasonal attractions, leagues, fundraisers, and loca...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta break down what every FEC owner should know about SBA loans. They explain how SBA loans work, the differences between the 7(a) and 504 programs, and what lenders look for in applicants. They also cover realistic timelines, common challenges FECs face along the way, and strategies to make your application stand o...

In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta shares how FEC operators can stop guessing and start growing with the 5 business data points to measure FEC growth. From revenue by attraction and guest traffic patterns to party conversions, labor efficiency, and marketing ROI, Russ highlights the five most critical areas to measure and shows how even simple systems, like spreads...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta talks with Michelle Gruening, Personal Growth & Leadership Coach at Action Lab Leadership and founder of MG Coaching, about how to grow from a manager into a leader. Michelle shares lessons from her own career, including how to delegate effectively, give meaningful feedback, invest in personal growth, and apply the “1-3-1 Rule” to...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta breaks down leadership strategies for breaking through stuck points. If you are feeling stuck, you're not alone. Russ dives into practical tools like the “5 Whys” to uncover root causes, reverse thinking to challenge assumptions, and reframing techniques to turn setbacks into growth opportunities. Whether you're navigating interna...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, we hit the triple-digit mark!! In this milestone 100th episode, Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening celebrate the journey so far and take a deep dive into what actually makes an experience unforgettable. Russ and Danny reveal the five characteristics that define truly memorable experiences. These are the same qualities that turn one-time guests in...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny Gruening talks about how perfectionism is NOT a superpower, and how chasing flawlessness may actually hold you back. Instead, Danny challenges listeners to embrace the power of mastery, which is built through consistency, discomfort, and purpose-driven growth. He explores the difference between fear-based perfectionism and progress-focused...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta is joined by John Keys, Sales Director at CenterEdge Software, to share revenue strategies for today’s FEC. As part of the Amusement 360 Partnership series, John provides real examples like simplifying group bookings, launching After Dark events, and introducing premium cocktails to attract adult guests. Plus, we talk about taking...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Wes Ratcliff, GM of Karting at ROLLER, to explore how FECs can convert one-time visitors into repeat guests. As part of the Amusement 360 Partnership series, Wes shares practical strategies to boost engagement, dwell time, and repeat visits. From expanding offerings to implementing unique programming, the conversati...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta is joined by Courtney Drahos of Party Center Software to share how to create an FEC marketing plan. As part of the Amusement 360 Partnership series, Courtney offers actionable tips to help operators open strong and grow smarter, from crafting your brand identity to building hype with websites and ads. This episode unpacks must-kno...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Bart Burger of Qubica AMF to talk about the 7 key factors of social gaming. As part of the Amusement 360 Partnership series, Bart breaks down those seven key traits into repeatability, easy participation, tech savviness, small group playability, ease of learning and difficulty of mastering, lighthearted competition,...