Episodios

  • 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.
    Más Menos
    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.
    Más Menos
    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.
    Más Menos
    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.
    Más Menos
    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.
    Más Menos
    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.
    Más Menos
    21 m
  • Ep. 82 - What the Heck is a Mastermind and Why Does it Work? Ft. Danny Gruening of Action Lab Leadership

    Ep. 82 - What the Heck is a Mastermind and Why Does it Work? Ft. Danny Gruening of Action Lab Leadership
    Mar 19 2025
    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 business but in personal relationships, and how a more intentional approach to leadership translates into better guest experiences. Whether you’re an FEC owner, manager, or entrepreneur looking to level up, this episode is packed with insights on creating lasting impact in your business and beyond.
    Más Menos
    27 m
  • Ep. 81 - How to Get Your Business in the News Featuring Kevin Loughery of Prosp Communications

    Ep. 81 - How to Get Your Business in the News Featuring Kevin Loughery of Prosp Communications
    Mar 12 2025
    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 Chambers of Commerce and community organizations, we highlight actionable strategies to gain third-party validation and amplify brand awareness. Tune in to discover how to integrate these elements into your marketing efforts and create a ripple effect that goes beyond simple advertising—making a lasting impact on your audience and community.
    Más Menos
    37 m
adbl_web_global_use_to_activate_webcro768_stickypopup