Memory Makers Podcast

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,...

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....

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...

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 transfo...

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 pass...

In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta is joined by Britannie Betti, Business Development Manager at Betson Enterprises to share when and how to add new arcade games. In this episode of the Amusement 360 Partnership Series, Britannie dives deep into how arcade operators can maximize profits by consistently refreshing their game rooms and analyzing earnings reports. She...

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta share the 2 decisions to become a happier leader. We discuss how shifting our attention from what we lack to what we can control will lead to less stress and more success. With practical examples for FEC operators, we highlight the power of controlling your focus and seeking solutions. Tune in for insights on bal...

In this week’s episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, host Russ Van Natta is joined by Leslie Legel, Director of Payments at CenterEdge Software to share the guide to understanding FEC credit card processing. Leslie addresses the challenges operators face with fees and integration while sharing her insights on simplifying payment systems. Tune in for valuable tips on navigating the payment landscap...

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta discuss how cinema entertainment centers are evolving. We explore how movie theaters are transforming by adding entertainment options like arcades, bowling, and escape rooms to increase guest stay, frequency of visits, and revenue. We also highlight successful examples from cinema groups incorporating these attra...

In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta is joined by Megan Zemaitis from ROLLER to share cost-cutting and automation strategies for FECs. In our fifth episode of the Amusement 360 Partnership Series, Megan provides practical advice on using self-serve kiosks, smart energy systems, and targeted marketing. This episode is a must-listen for operators looking to boost effic...

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta share ways to create zombie loyalists with amazing service. They explore how exceptional guest service can reduce staff turnover, increase revenue, and enhance customer retention. The episode also features insights on measuring guest experience metrics and a review of Peter Shankman’s Zombie Loyalists, a book tha...

In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Jeremy Dickamore from Embed for an insightful discussion on selecting the right payment partner for your FEC. In our forth episode of the Amusement 360 Partnership Series, Jeremy dives deep into the benefits of going cashless, including increased customer spending, enhanced convenience, and streamlined operations. W...

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta discuss how to avoid the advice trap. Through the lens of Michael Bungay Stanier's books, The Coaching Habit and The Advice Trap, we explore how leaders in entertainment businesses can avoid the pitfalls of over-dependence, overwhelm, and disengagement. By shifting from advice-giving to asking the right questions...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta welcomes Scott Harvey, a former FBI-trained hostage negotiator turned communication expert to share high impact communication tips. Scott shares compelling stories from his law enforcement career, offering invaluable lessons on the importance of effective communication. He reveals how clear, empathetic communication can prevent small iss...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, host Russ Van Natta is joined by industry legend, John Losito where they dives into the pros and cons of of operating cutting edge attractions. John is the owner of Sun Valley Lanes, a leading bowling entertainment center out of Lincoln, Nebraska. He shares how his team has successfully transformed their traditional bowling center into a cutting-edge,...

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta dive into the delicate balance of cutting edge vs tried and true in entertainment venues. We discuss how operators can navigate the constant innovation and change, weighing decisions on new attractions with a calculated risk approach. Using examples like VR and escape rooms, they illustrate the importance of alig...

Ep. 53 - Tips for Preventative Arcade Game Maintenance ft. Adam Kleinhenz of Shaffer Distribution by Creative Works

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta share how to remove customer friction to improve profits through the lens of 'Fans First', a book written by Jesse Cole, the founder of the Savannah Bananas. In this milestone episode, marking a full year of sharing insights and stories, we explore the importance of eliminating customer friction and creating unfo...

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta discuss what to know before installing escape rooms in your venue. They provide their advice and tips on determining if escape rooms are a good fit for your business, and hear about real-life examples of successful implementations such as 814 Lanes and Games and Booby Trap Escape Rooms. Watch or listen to learn h...

In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta welcomes Mike Tipton from Redemption Plus to talk how the 4 Arcade Player types impact Your Profits. In our second episode of the Amusement 360 Partnership Series, Mike shares insights on the four types of arcade players and how understanding these categories can enhance customer satisfaction and boost business success. Whether yo...

In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta discuss why Laser Tag is a top earner at entertainment venues. They dig deep into why laser tag remains a top attraction, offering flexibility, profitability, and unforgettable guest experiences. They explore how laser tag’s immersive, story-driven nature, coupled with its social and competitive aspects, c...

In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta discuss how to encourage customers to share on social media. Understand the PESO model (Paid, Earned, Shared, Owned) to maximize your social media impact. Learn how to create Instagrammable moments, from photo ops to unique attractions like the Human Claw machine. Discover tips on leveraging user-generated...

In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta is joined for an insightful conversation with Sarah Malott from QubicaAMF, highlighting why bowling has stayed relevant for over 100 years. In our first episode of the Amusement 360 Partnership Series, Sarah shares how bowling was the 'original social network' while also hitting on how operators can drive success by embracing mode...

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta is joined by special guest David Dimberio, owner of Combat Ops where they discuss how he rewards employees for going above and beyond. David shares his journey from a career in medical devices to founding Combat Ops, a multi-attraction family entertainment center. He reveals his inspiration behind joining the FEC industry, the importance...

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta share the keys to create successful social media posts. They emphasize being the entertainment rather than interrupting it, and they provide practical examples, such as leveraging national days like National Donut Day in creative ways. They also discuss using trending social media formats to showcase your venue's uniqu...