The Family Business Experience

Brian Gorman of Waldameer & Water World


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Step inside the century-old legacy of Erie’s Waldameer Park as Zach and Jacob sit down with Brian Gorman, Chief Operating Officer and fourth-generation family member.

From its origins as a trolley company picnic spot in 1896 to the bustling amusement and water park it is today, Brian shares the family journey—complete with paper adoptions, bold investments, generational shifts, and a deep commitment to community values.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

  • The unique origins of Waldameer and how the Gorman family came to lead it

  • Behind-the-scenes stories—from auctioning historic carousels to modernizing the park experience

  • Insights on evolving leadership styles, family succession, and keeping tradition alive in a changing world

  • How Waldameer balances fun, affordability, and local connection amidst amusement park industry changes

  • Upcoming park projects and why Erie remains at the heart of everything they do

Whether you’re passionate about family businesses, love amusement park history, or just want to hear how a local treasure thrives across generations, this candid conversation will inspire and entertain. Press play and enjoy the ride!

This podcast is sponsored by Zac Wild CFP, CEPA financial advisor with Edward Jones. Zac works for business owners who are interested in maximizing their investments in tandem with efficient tax strategies. this includes fully leveraging the benefits of 401k's, SIMPLE IRA, and other more unique tax advantaged accounts.

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The Family Business ExperienceBy Center for Family Business at Penn State Behrend