Memory Makers Podcast

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, host Russ Van Natta chats with Creative Works’ Head Concept Developer Mike Ficarra about How to Create Immersive Attractions for FECS. Mike shares insights from his work on iconic themed attractions like Masters of the Universe and G.I. Joe, exploring how physical storytelling, guest psychology, and IP preservation come together. He explains “forensic...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ and Danny break down The 3 E's of Effective Business Leadership. Those 3 E's consist of Efficiency, Effort, and Expertise. They explain why being effective (watering real plants) matters more than just staying busy, and share their “Done by One” strategy: knock out 2–3 important tasks before 1 PM to stay focused. They also dive into how to keep pu...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ is joined by Creative Works Owner and President, Armando Launti to discuss the hard reality of being a business owner. Together, they peel back the curtain on what it really takes to juggle the roles of business owner, team leader, and family person without losing your mind. Armando shares candid advice on ditching the myth of “work–life balance”...

In this timely episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ is joined by keynote speaker, author, and communication expert Scott Harvey to explore how storytelling creates unforgettable guest experiences in the family entertainment industry. Together, they unpack the primal impact of stories, how they shape culture, and why your team—and your guests—need to feel like part of a meaningful narrative....

In this timely episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ and Danny reflect on the top 5 lessons we learned at Amusement 360. From Jerry Merola’s optimistic financial outlook on growth in the FEC industry to insightful operator interviews with leaders from Pins and Wheels, Conroe’s Incredible Pizza, and Airway Fun Center, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Whether it's rebranding with...

In this timely episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ and Danny share how to open a family entertainment center and the key milestones you'll encounter along the way. From conducting essential demographic and feasibility research to writing a comprehensive business plan, they explore what it takes to align your vision with market demand, navigate funding challenges, and build sustainable momen...

In this timely episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta gives operators a crucial "finger on the pulse" update about how the evolving U.S. tariff landscape is impacting the family entertainment center (FEC) industry. Russ breaks down how tariffs are affecting project budgets, timelines, and materials sourcing—especially for those in expansion, renovation, or new construction phases. He...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny and Russ answer your burning questions about family entertainment centers in a grab bag style episode! We tackle a variety of hot topics and questions from listeners and operators alike, sharing simple, effective ways to boost guest engagement, repeat visits, and food sales. By highlighting practices like loyalty programs, staff-driven kin...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny dives into the mindset and strategies needed to navigate tough times as entrepreneurs and leaders in the family entertainment industry. Drawing on insights from thought leaders like Myron Golden and Alex Hormozi, Danny explores the difference between contributing and determining factors in our lives, the power of perspective, and how we ca...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny and Russ dive deep into why you should step away from the business to attend events. Fresh off attending Growth Day, an event hosted by Brendon Burchard, Danny shares his biggest takeaways—including how reframing yourself as the director of your own actions (rather than just a character in a scene) can drastically shift how you lead and re...

On this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ and Danny explore why mini golf attractions are so profitable right now. They break down the factors driving its resurgence, from post-COVID recovery and economic resilience to media influence and celebrity investments. The duo also dives into the latest advancements shaping the industry, including electric edging, CGI-enhanced courses, and emergi...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ and Danny review the 2025 FEC trends in the United States. They discuss the industry’s continued global growth, with projections set to nearly double by 2030, and examine how North American operators are adapting to economic fluctuations. Russ shares insights from site visits and market research, highlighting how reinvesting in secondary at...

In this week’s edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ and Danny a question: what is a mastermind and why does it work? Danny takes on a new role as Founder of Action Lab Leadership, diving deep into the power of personal growth masterminds and leadership training for family entertainment center (FEC) operators. He and Russ discuss the ripple effect of leadership development, not just in busine...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ is joined by Kevin Loughery of Propsr Communications to discuss how to get your business in the news. Kevin dives deeper into the power of the PESO media model—Paid, Earned, Shared, and Owned—and how entertainment operators can maximize their marketing reach. From influencer collaborations and local media partnerships to engaging with Chamb...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, host Danny Gruening explores 3 lessons business owners can learn from Olympic athletes. He breaks down why setting goals isn’t enough without strong systems, how getting "in the zone" through intentional routines can enhance performance, and why comparing your achievements to others can be a dangerous trap. Drawing from real Olympic moments and...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ sits down with serial tech entrepreneur Zack Johnson to explore how Sandbox Social integrates family entertainment center software at their venue. Zack shares insights from his journey, from selling an esports business in 2021 to founding Diverted River, a company dedicated to connecting and enhancing FEC operations. They discuss the integr...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny and Russ explore how to target the right audience with your attractions. Using examples like Lucky Putt and blacklight mini golf, they discuss how design, technology, and operations can tailor experiences for different demographics—whether it’s a premium, tech-driven game for adults or a whimsical, family-friendly course. They also highlig...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta chats with laser tag enthusiast and podcast host, Laurie Jean Britton, A.K.A. Tivia to talk about how the best laser tag arenas offer more than technology. She shares some of the most memorable laser tag experiences, from standout game masters to unique arena themes, like a Hollywood-style setup at Celebrity Lanes and the "Temple...

In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Stephanie Moxley to share the lessons learned from the expansion journey at Pins and Wheels. From its roots as Playland Skate Center to a multi-attraction destination featuring bowling, VR, an expanded arcade, and a full-service restaurant, Stephanie shares the challenges, lessons, and vision behind this bold expans...

In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening share the simple method of achieve more business goals! They break down the DOORS Framework, a powerful method to turn your ambitions into reality from high-performance coach Brendon Burchard. Learn how to Define success, set key Outcomes, anticipate Obstacles, build a Rhythm, and create a community of accountab...

In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening share ways to improve performance with employee training playbooks! They break down the essential steps for mapping out clear, effective processes that empower your team, improve efficiency, and eliminate confusion. From process mining to defining roles, visual aids, and regular updates, they share actionable st...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Kevin Kochman, Sales Partner at Semnox Solutions, to explore how to increase arcade redemption profit. As part of the Amusement 360 Partner Series, Kevin shares inventory management best practices, tips on training staff, organizing storage areas, and the importance of proper game calibration for optimal customer ex...

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...

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 cle...

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...