Memory Makers Podcast

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...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta tackle how to be more productive and less busy. You may be asking yourself, "but what's the difference?". They share insightful strategies to prioritize important tasks and avoid the trap of “watering fake plants” – putting effort into activities that don't yield results. Listen in for practical advice on improving tim...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta talk about the exciting comeback of Mini Golf in family entertainment centers. They share ideas on how to use mini golf to fill odd spaces, keep guests entertained while waiting for other attractions, and appeal to all ages. Learn about the latest trends, like indoor blacklight mini golf and tech innovations such as pr...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta introduce the "Wheel of Business" for FECs concept, an adaptation from Tony Robbins' "Wheel of Life." They break down seven crucial sections of your business, from vision and leadership to operational systems, guiding you through self-assessment and improvement strategies. This episode has actionable insights to enhanc...

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta is joined by Zach Johnson of Rev'd Up Fun where he shares how to master membership programs! They discuss the strategies behind building thriving membership programs, conquering initial hesitations, and nurturing a community atmosphere within your business. Gain valuable insights for your business with this episode into elevating...

In this week’s edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta are joined by Kimberly Schilling as they explore the transformative journey of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro! This episode is packed with valuable insights applicable to personal and professional growth. Hear firsthand accounts from Danny and Kimberly as they share their inspiring experiences, from initial in...

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening “unlock” the keys to what makes a great Escape Room game master. They discuss the characteristics of an ideal candidate for the role while also providing a few tips and tricks to level up your customer experience. It’s an episode full of enlightening ideas to ensure your guest walk away with a story to tell all about t...

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening unpack the secrets to operating your business with intentionality. From guest experiences to business strategies and community involvement, they delve into the importance of vision, culture, and flexibility. Discover practical strategies for creating unforgettable customer experiences, cultivating a winning team cultur...

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny Gruening is joined by Jeff Pierce of Atomic City where they talk how his FEC became 'One of the World's Greatest' in just THREE years! They discuss the power of reinvestment and constant evolution while sharing firsthand insights, success stories, and valuable advice from Jeff and Sharlotte's journey of transforming Atomic City into one of the wo...

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening dive into the critical topic of how to make organizational change less painful. Learn why 50% of changes fail and how you can beat the odds by crafting a solid framework. From adaptive changes to transformational shifts, they'll guide you through the critical steps to crafting the "Why", defining the "How", overcoming...

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta is joined by special guest Armando Lanuti as he shares how to grow your business with a Vivid Vision plan. Armando provides key insights on ways to sustainably strengthen your business through succession planning, decision-making frameworks, and creating memorable experiences for customers, clients, and team members alike. Plus, you'll w...