Episodios

  • 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
  • Ep. 80 - 3 Lessons Business Owners Can Learn from Olympic Athletes

    Ep. 80 - 3 Lessons Business Owners Can Learn from Olympic Athletes
    Mar 5 2025
    In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, host Danny Gruening explores 3 lessons business owners can learn from Olympic athletes. He breaks down why setting goals isn’t enough without strong systems, how getting "in the zone" through intentional routines can enhance performance, and why comparing your achievements to others can be a dangerous trap. Drawing from real Olympic moments and practical business insights, Danny provides actionable takeaways to help leaders stay focused, improve daily, and celebrate wins without losing sight of future growth. Tune in for a fresh perspective on peak performance in business!
    Más Menos
    15 m
  • Ep. 79 - How Sandbox Social Integrates Family Entertainment Center Software at Their Venue Featuring Zack Johnson

    Ep. 79 - How Sandbox Social Integrates Family Entertainment Center Software at Their Venue Featuring Zack Johnson
    Feb 26 2025
    In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ sits down with serial tech entrepreneur Zack Johnson to explore how Sandbox Social integrates family entertainment center software at their venue. Zack shares insights from his journey, from selling an esports business in 2021 to founding Diverted River, a company dedicated to connecting and enhancing FEC operations. They discuss the integration of Lucky Putt, gamification strategies, and how Diverted River bridges disparate systems like arcade, bowling, and POS to create a seamless guest experience. Zack also delves into pinball gamification, data-driven engagement, and the evolving role of technology in shaping FECs.
    Más Menos
    34 m
  • Ep. 78 - What Liquid Death Water Can Teach You About Attractions

    Ep. 78 - What Liquid Death Water Can Teach You About Attractions
    Feb 19 2025
    In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny and Russ explore how to target the right audience with your attractions. Using examples like Lucky Putt and blacklight mini golf, they discuss how design, technology, and operations can tailor experiences for different demographics—whether it’s a premium, tech-driven game for adults or a whimsical, family-friendly course. They also highlight how venues like Andretti Indoor Karting balance offerings to engage both primary and secondary audiences.
    Más Menos
    24 m
  • Ep. 77 - The Best Laser Tag Arenas Offer More Than Technology Featuring Laurie Jean Britton

    Ep. 77 - The Best Laser Tag Arenas Offer More Than Technology Featuring Laurie Jean Britton
    Feb 11 2025
    In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta chats with laser tag enthusiast and podcast host, Laurie Jean Britton, A.K.A. Tivia to talk about how the best laser tag arenas offer more than technology. She shares some of the most memorable laser tag experiences, from standout game masters to unique arena themes, like a Hollywood-style setup at Celebrity Lanes and the "Temple of Doom" arena at Thrills. We also discuss the impact of storytelling, game mechanics, cleanliness, and interactive props in creating unforgettable experiences. Fun fact about Tivia, she has played in all 50 states—twice!
    Más Menos
    32 m
  • Ep. 76 - Lessons Learned From the Expansion Journey at Pins and Wheels Featuring Stephanie Moxley

    Ep. 76 - Lessons Learned From the Expansion Journey at Pins and Wheels Featuring Stephanie Moxley
    Feb 5 2025
    In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Stephanie Moxley to share the lessons learned from the expansion journey at Pins and Wheels. From its roots as Playland Skate Center to a multi-attraction destination featuring bowling, VR, an expanded arcade, and a full-service restaurant, Stephanie shares the challenges, lessons, and vision behind this bold expansion. One of the biggest challenges in this transition was maintaining company culture while doubling their workforce from 27 to nearly 70 employees. Learn how Pins and Wheels maximized space, enhanced guest experiences, and built a business that keeps customers coming back for more.
    Más Menos
    31 m
  • Ep. 75 - The Simple Method to Achieve More Business Goals

    Ep. 75 - The Simple Method to Achieve More Business Goals
    Jan 29 2025
    In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening share the simple method of achieve more business goals! They break down the DOORS Framework, a powerful method to turn your ambitions into reality from high-performance coach Brendon Burchard. Learn how to Define success, set key Outcomes, anticipate Obstacles, build a Rhythm, and create a community of accountability by being Social. Whether you're growing your business, improving operations, or setting personal milestones, this episode gives you the tools to stay on track and avoid last-minute scrambles.
    Más Menos
    18 m
  • Ep. 74 - Improve Performance with Employee Training Playbooks

    Ep. 74 - Improve Performance with Employee Training Playbooks
    Jan 22 2025
    In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening share ways to improve performance with employee training playbooks! They break down the essential steps for mapping out clear, effective processes that empower your team, improve efficiency, and eliminate confusion. From process mining to defining roles, visual aids, and regular updates, they share actionable strategies to help your business run smoother. Tune in to learn how small, consistent actions can snowball into major improvements!
    Más Menos
    25 m