Episodios

  • Ep. 90 - The Top 5 Lessons We Learned at Amusement 360

    Ep. 90 - The Top 5 Lessons We Learned at Amusement 360
    May 21 2025
    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 intention, creating unique community partnerships (like turning a police horse into a unicorn!), or empowering staff to grow into leadership roles, this episode offers a front-row seat to what’s working in the FEC industry right now.
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    22 m
  • Ep. 89 - How to Open a Family Entertainment Center: Key Milestones

    Ep. 89 - How to Open a Family Entertainment Center: Key Milestones
    May 14 2025
    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 momentum. This episode is packed with expert advice to help you avoid costly mistakes and make smarter decisions so you can create more powerful and emotional memories for your guests.
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    31 m
  • Ep. 88 - How Are Tariffs Impacting Family Entertainment Centers?

    Ep. 88 - How Are Tariffs Impacting Family Entertainment Centers?
    Apr 30 2025
    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 outlines three key project stages and their unique challenges, shares mitigation strategies like alternative sourcing and upfront purchasing, and arms operators with smart questions to ask their vendors. This episode is a must-listen as we as an industry navigate purchasing decisions in an ever shifting economic environment.
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    19 m
  • Ep. 87 - Answers to Your Burning Questions About Family Entertainment Centers

    Ep. 87 - Answers to Your Burning Questions About Family Entertainment Centers
    Apr 23 2025
    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 kindness, and community involvement, you'll build a strong brand loyalty.
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    29 m
  • Ep. 86 - How Leaders Respond in Hard Times

    Ep. 86 - How Leaders Respond in Hard Times
    Apr 16 2025
    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 can grow stronger through adversity. He also highlights the surprising science behind community support and how surrounding ourselves with the right people—mentors, peers, friends—can make even the steepest hills feel more manageable. Whether you're facing a bad five minutes or a tough season, this episode is a powerful reminder that you can handle hard better.
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    16 m
  • Ep. 85 - Why You Should Step Away From the Business to Attend Events

    Ep. 85 - Why You Should Step Away From the Business to Attend Events
    Apr 8 2025
    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 respond in life and business. Danny explores how to translate 25 pages of powerful insights into real-world action, why showing up physically in the room makes all the difference, and how embracing uncertainty can unlock unexpected value. This episode is a reminder to be present, stay curious, and always make room for growth.
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    26 m
  • Ep. 84 - Why Mini Golf Attractions Are So Profitable Right Now

    Ep. 84 - Why Mini Golf Attractions Are So Profitable Right Now
    Mar 27 2025
    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 emerging formats like Lucky Putt and Boutique Golf. Whether it's the timeless appeal of social competition or the cutting-edge tech revolutionizing the game, this episode unpacks what makes mini golf more immersive, engaging, and profitable than ever.
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    24 m
  • Ep. 83 - Let's Review the 2025 FEC Trends in the United States

    Ep. 83 - Let's Review the 2025 FEC Trends in the United States
    Mar 25 2025
    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 attractions and strategic bundling has helped businesses thrive. They also explore shifts in arcade and redemption trends, emphasizing the importance of perceived value and the integration of redemption elements in emerging attractions.
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    21 m
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