Have you ever considered what business you're in? Ok, but what about the business you're REALLY in? It's easy for location-based entertainment venues to think they are in the business of their attractions (bowling, or laser tag, or trampolines, or anything else). But really, you're in the business of memories, fun, celebration, and escape. This sounds subtle, but it's a mental shift that can have a big impact on how you make decisions as a leader.

Learn why the surface level answer (like bowling) hurts your ability to grow your business
Understand Simon Sinek's Golden Circle and how that helps you communicate your brand more effectively
Learn how this exercise can make you more excited and passionate about your business
Get practical steps for implementing this philosophy into your business

Ep. 1 - The Power of Defining What Business You're REALLY In

The location-based entertainment industry has a lot of employee turnover. Most staff members are high school and college kids working part time, who then move on to the "real world" after a couple years. This causes many business owners to to assume they have little (or no) impact on these kids. But this couldn't be further from the truth. The foundation you set for your employees will last for the rest of their working lives. And even with a fairly transient workforce, you can create a great culture with engaged employees.

Ep. 2 - How To Create A Great Work Culture With Part-Time Employees

It's easy for location-based entertainment venue owners to ask "which attraction will make the most money?" But the answer is complicated, because it depends on several factors. First, who is your target audience? Is it kids, pre-teens, teens, or adults? Next, what are your goals? If you want to book more birthday parties, the solution might be very different than a goal to increase dwell time. This episode will help you learn the tools to choose the right attractions for the right audience.

Ep. 3 - How To Choose The Right Attractions For The Right Audience

In this installment, Russ and Danny break down the essential factors that influence attraction decisions in the entertainment industry. 

From understanding size requirements and hourly capacity to pricing strategies, they unravel the secrets that drive successful choices for your venue. But that's not all – there's a fourth ingredient crucial to the mix: staffing.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just stepping into the world of family entertainment, this episode offers valuable insights that will transform your approach. Tune in to uncover the winning formula for making your attraction decisions a resounding success.

Ep. 4 - Learn The 4 Key Variables For Choosing An Attraction

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta discuss how technology elevates attractions like laser tag, mini golf, and VR into immersive adventures, bringing stories to life and fostering social connections. Tune in as they delve into the art of weaving storytelling into attractions, making each visit a memorable adventure in today's tech-centric world.

Ep. 5 - The 3 Right Ways to Use Technology in Attractions

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta introduce a powerful framework from John Maxwell that will change the way you approach note taking for better implementation. Learn how to prioritize and turn concepts into actionable plans using the "ACT" framework: Apply, Change, Teach. 

How can YOU as an owner/operator in the FEC or LBE industry benefit from implementing this strategy? Tune in to find out!

Ep. 6 - How To Prioritize Your Business Ideas

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, the dynamic duo of Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta unveil 3 potent methods that are destined to launch your business to new heights.

🎙️ Whether you're a seasoned entertainment center owner or embarking on your entrepreneurial journey, this episode is brimming with actionable insights directly inspired by the works of Jay Abraham.

Ep. 7 - The 3 Ways to Grow Your Business

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, hosts Russ and Danny keep it real by sharing some surprising truths about your attraction mix that could transform your approach.

Ep. 8 - Surprising Truths About Your Attraction Mix

On this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, we dive into the masterclass that is running a business in the likes of industry giants Disney and Universal!

Discover the secrets to creating "wow" moments, the power of storytelling in entertainment, and the importance of setting clear service expectations. Plus, find out what NOT to do when engaging with your customers!

Ep. 9 - Lessons You Can Learn From Disney And Universal

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 gamification can make training more engaging and enjoyable for your team.

Ep. 10 - Improve Employee Training And Earn More Profits

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 insights that can be directly implemented into your family entertainment center.

Ep. 11 - How to Better Collaborate, Empower, and Grow Your Team

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 elevate any attraction in your family entertainment center and generate higher revenue.

Ep. 12 - How to Make More Money with Laser Tag

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 experience and boost your FEC's success!

Ep. 13 - Simple Strategies To Improve Your Marketing

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 intricacies of evaluating and acquiring new businesses to expand their portfolio, ensuring a seamless transition that prioritizes both the financial aspect and the well-being of the existing staff and community reputation. 

This episode is not one to skip for some incredible insights!

Ep. 14 - How to Approach Selling or Taking on Investments Featuring Craig Wescott and Jeff Gebhart

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 for your business and staff.

Ep. 24 - Managing Stressful Seasons in Business

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 connections, and maintaining a positive culture that transcends the daily grind. We may work in a fun industry, but it's still work, so it's important to be intentional with your team building!

Ep. 29 - Create a Healthy Company Culture

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.

Ep. 31 - 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership (FEC Remix)

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. Plus, they discuss the importance of collaborative communication and empowering frontline staff for maximum efficiency and impact

Ep. 33 - Insights From FEC Industry Leaders

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 resistance, ensuring sustainability, and conducting post-change reviews.

Ep. 36 - How To Make Organizational Change Less Painful

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 world's greatest family entertainment centers.

Ep. 37 - 'World's Greatest FEC' In Just THREE Years! An Interview with Jeff Pierce of Atomic City

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 culture, and becoming a hero in your community.

Ep. 38 - How to Operate Your Business with Intentionality

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 their experience.

Ep. 39 - What Makes A GREAT Escape Room Game Master

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 inspiration to rigorous preparation and encountering an incredible support team along the way.

Ep. 40 - Lessons Learned Climbing Kilimanjaro

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 member experiences and boosting retention rates.

Ep. 41 - How to Master Membership Programs for FECs Featuring Zach Johnson Of Rev'd Up Fun

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 enhance your business's performance and customer experiences.

Ep. 42 - Improve the 7 Sections of Your Business

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 projection mapping. Don't miss these practical insights on enhancing guest experiences and creating memorable moments!

Ep. 43 - How To Increase Mini Golf Revenue

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 time management, focusing on meaningful work, and creating powerful, emotional memories in your family entertainment center. this episode has real-life examples and tips for maximizing effectiveness in both business and personal life.

Ep. 44 - How to Be More Productive (And Less Busy)

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 unique offerings and staff talents.

Ep. 45 - Keys to Create Successful Social Media Posts

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 of having a creative and dedicated staff, and how David ensures a strong company culture and customer experience. Plus, hear insights on future expansions and the value of engaging both kids and adults in memorable entertainment experiences. Tune in for insider tips and inspiring stories from a true Memory Maker!

Ep. 46 - How To Reward Employees For Going Above And Beyond

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 modern trends and creating all-inclusive, engaging environments. They explore the integration of mini bowling, duckpin bowling, and high-tech experiences in diverse venues, from boutique hotels to family entertainment centers.

Ep. 47 - Why Bowling Has Stayed Relevant for Over 100 Years ft. Sarah Malott of Qubica AMF

Welcome to the Memory Makers Podcast, the show that helps you create amazing customer experiences and make more memories presented by Creative Works. This podcast explores the world of family entertainment centers through the eyes of the people who make it all possible - the Memory Makers. Creative Works' core foundation is based on making "Powerful and Emotional Memories" and they are now sharing that with YOU with insider knowledge, tips & tricks, as well as interviews with industry leaders.

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