Welcome to this episode of "Storytelling Magic" where we explore how story-driven branding brings attractions to life and builds lasting guest connections. Join us for an informative episode of "Live with Sondra" featuring Peter, Founder of Brandartica and former Disney strategist, who shares how powerful stories can transform brands of any size.

In this session, Peter will dive into:

• Crafting Brand Stories: How attractions can create compelling stories that live far beyond their gates.
• Avoiding Common Pitfalls: The key storytelling mistakes that attractions make — and how to avoid them.
• Lessons from Disney: Proven storytelling strategies inspired by Disney that apply to destinations of all sizes.
• The Meaning of “Maktub”: How this idea shapes the future of deeper guest connections.
• Purpose-Driven Brands: How to build a brand that stands out and stays true in a noisy, competitive world.

Tune in for an inspiring session on how to master storytelling and build unforgettable brands in the attractions industry!

Connect with Peter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-example/

Connect with Sondra Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondrashannon/

🎤 Want to be a guest on our show? Apply here: https://forms.office.com/r/Y4kGTcaWw4

Welcome to this episode of "F&B as Destination" where we dive into the power of food and beverage in driving attraction success. Join us for an informative episode of "Live with Sondra" featuring Ken Whiting, President/CEO of Whiting’s Foods, a true visionary who believes F&B can be the main reason guests visit attractions.

In this session, Ken will dive into:

• F&B as a Destination: Proven strategies to make food and beverage a central draw that boosts guest visits and revenue.
• Empowering Young Workforce: Insights on hiring, training, and retaining teens and young adults for a motivated, high-performing team.
• Global F&B Trends: What attractions can learn from elevated quality, variety, and “Instagram-worthy” offerings around the world.
• The “WAVES” Approach: How lessons from Ken’s book can help build a successful, service-driven workforce.
• The Value of Volunteering: Why community and industry involvement can unlock unexpected growth and insights.

Tune in for a dynamic session on maximizing the role of F&B and empowering your teams to deliver unforgettable guest experiences!

Connect with Ken Whiting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-whiting-0b87a06/

Connect with Sondra Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondrashannon/

Want to learn more about Live with Sondra or apply to be a guest? Visit: https://gatemaster.com/media/live-with-sondra/

Welcome to this episode of "Exceeding Expectations" where we dive into the art of culture and experience design that keeps guests coming back. Join us for an informative episode of "Live with Sondra" featuring Phil Bruno, Chief Experience Officer of Treat ‘em Right Experiences, who brings decades of expertise in elevating visitor experience and empowering teams.

In this session, Phil will dive into:

• Evolving Visitor Expectations: How to design experiences that adapt to what guests want now and in the future.
• Culture-Loyalty Link: Why a strong internal culture is the foundation for outstanding guest satisfaction.
• Actionable Skills: Ways to boost employee performance and make work more fulfilling.
• Leaders Who Point North: How great leaders guide teams and set clear directions for success.
• Driving Loyalty: Creating purposeful experiences that keep guests returning and fuel sustainable growth.

Tune in for an inspiring session on mastering visitor experience, leadership, and culture in the attractions industry!

Connect with Phil Bruno: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philbruno/

Connect with Sondra Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondrashannon/

🎤 Want to be a guest on our show? Apply here: https://forms.office.com/r/Y4kGTcaWw4

🎙️ Welcome to this episode of "Live with Sondra," where we explore the innovations transforming attractions and hospitality. In this episode, titled "The Tech Behind the Tap: Innovations in Self-Serve F&B," Sondra sits down with Jose Hevia, CEO and Founder of DraftServ Technologies, to uncover how smart, self-serve beverage solutions are reshaping operations, revenue, and guest satisfaction.

With over 40 years of experience in hospitality and as the inventor of patented beverage dispensing technologies, Jose Hevia brings insider knowledge on how scalable, integrated tech solutions can enhance guest experiences while freeing up teams to focus on service over tasks.

In this session, Sondra and Jose dive into:

• Reimagining Beverage Service: How DraftServ transforms existing dispensers into smart, connected self-serve stations that reduce lines, increase sales, and enhance guest autonomy.
• Reducing Operational Friction: The key pain points self-serve technology solves for attractions, from shortening food lines to unlocking underused spaces.
• Data-Driven Decisions: How real-time insights from beverage systems empower operators to optimize inventory, pricing, and layout for higher profitability.
• The Future of F&B: Trends shaping beverage service in high-volume venues, from sustainability initiatives to guest personalization.

Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on how technology empowers both guests and teams—without sacrificing hospitality.

Connect with Jose Hevia: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jose-hevia-5a709a26/

Connect with Sondra Shannon to learn more about Gatemaster’s role in delivering seamless guest experiences through integrated attraction technology: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondrashannon/

🎤 Want to be a guest on our show? Apply here: https://forms.office.com/r/Y4kGTcaWw4

Welcome to this episode of "Live with Sondra," where we explore the people and ideas shaping the future of attractions and entertainment. In this inspiring episode titled "Breaking Barriers to Inclusion: Creating Inclusive, Sustainable Experiences," Sondra sits down with Emmanuel Kelly, Co-Founder of Outlier Ltd, to discuss his powerful mission to reimagine entertainment through accessibility, inclusion, and sustainable design.

From being found as a child on a battlefield in Iraq to performing alongside Coldplay and creating the world's first fully accessible, sustainable theme park, Emmanuel Kelly shares his extraordinary journey of resilience, imagination, and purpose.

In this episode, Sondra and Emmanuel dive into:

• Building a More Inclusive World: How Emmanuel’s vision for accessible entertainment extends beyond theme parks to create universal design impacts across industries.
• The Power of Storytelling and Representation: Why placing people from the outlier community in front of and behind the camera matters for the future of film, TV, and live entertainment.
• Imagining Walla’s World: The dream behind creating a theme park where everyone feels welcome, safe, and connected—a place where accessibility and sustainability coexist.
• Leading with Purpose and Empathy: Emmanuel’s insights on overcoming challenges, letting go of ego, and embracing understanding as a path to meaningful change.

Tune in for an uplifting conversation on dreaming big, taking action, and building a world where inclusion is the foundation.

Connect with Emmanuel Kelly: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmanuel-kelly-7630919a/

Connect with Sondra Shannon to learn more about Gatemaster’s role in advancing inclusive, guest-centered experiences across attractions: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondrashannon/

🎤 Want to be a guest on our show? Apply here: https://forms.office.com/r/Y4kGTcaWw4

Welcome to this episode of “Live with Sondra,” where we explore the ideas and people shaping leadership, culture, and guest experience in the attractions industry and beyond. In this powerful episode titled “The Power of Improv in Leadership: Boosting Culture & Resiliency,” Sondra sits down with Heather Barnes, Founder & CEO of Improv at Work LLC, to discuss how improvisational strategies are transforming leadership, communication, and workplace culture.

With a background spanning 18 years in museums, zoos, and attractions—including leadership roles at the Museum of Science and Industry and Shedd Aquarium—Heather Barnes brings a unique blend of executive expertise, improv artistry, and organizational insight to this conversation.

In this episode, Sondra and Heather dive into:

• Using Improv to Navigate Difficult Conversations: How leaders can apply “Yes, And” to foster collaboration, even in moments of conflict or disagreement.
• Building Trust Through Vulnerability: Why showing up authentically is a leadership superpower—and how improv helps leaders connect with teams on a human level.
• Creating Inclusive, Safe Work Cultures: Strategies for empowering teams, boosting psychological safety, and cultivating a culture where employees can thrive.
• Applying Improv in Guest Experience & Hiring: How improvisational methods can enhance guest interactions and transform hiring practices to prioritize empathy and adaptability.

Tune in for an insightful session on harnessing improv to elevate leadership, strengthen teams, and create spaces where both employees and guests feel valued.

Connect with Heather Barnes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-barnes-5532b34/

Connect with Sondra Shannon to learn more about Gatemaster’s role in fostering resilient, people-first leadership across attractions: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondrashannon/

🎤 Want to be a guest on our show? Apply here: https://forms.office.com/r/Y4kGTcaWw4

Welcome to this episode of "Live with Sondra" where we uncover the untapped opportunities that make attractions thrive. In this episode, titled "Smart Restrooms, Happier Guests: The Cleanliness KPI You’re Missing," Sondra sits down with Sara Muntner, Customer Success Manager at Essity Professional Hygiene, to discuss how something as simple as a restroom can make or break the guest experience—and even drive revenue.

With over a decade of experience supporting hygiene solutions for high-traffic venues, Sara Muntner shares how data-driven cleaning and smart restroom technology are changing the way parks operate—from improved team efficiency to enhancing guest satisfaction and sustainability.

Join us for an insightful session as Sondra and Sara explore:

• The Role of Hygiene in Guest Experience: Why clean, well-stocked restrooms aren't just a basic need—they’re a direct contributor to guest satisfaction and spending.
• Data-Driven Cleaning in Action: How real-time traffic and dispenser fill data help teams work smarter, reduce waste, and prevent negative guest moments.
• Operational ROI You Can Measure: The unexpected ways clean restrooms can cut labor costs, improve retention, and boost food & beverage sales.
• Empowering Frontline Staff with Tech: How smart tools give cleaning teams clarity, confidence, and purpose—especially important in high-turnover roles.
• Restrooms as Brand Reputation Builders: How social media is amplifying both the best and worst restroom experiences—and what operators can do about it.

Tune in for a fresh perspective on the KPIs you’re probably missing and how technology is bringing purpose and hospitality back into park operations.

Connect with Sara Muntner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-muntner-mob-ccsm-444b13a5/

Connect with Sondra Shannon to learn more about Gatemaster’s role in improving guest experience and operational efficiency through smart attraction technology: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondrashannon/

🎤 Want to be a guest on our show? Apply here: https://forms.office.com/r/Y4kGTcaWw4

Welcome to this episode of "Live with Sondra" where we explore how to transform everyday moments into extraordinary guest experiences. In this episode, titled "Savor the Story: F&B That Shapes the Guest Journey," Sondra sits down with Sarah Bisacca, Freelance Writer and Global Theme Park Foodie, to discuss how intentional, immersive, and even nostalgic food and beverage offerings can make or break the guest experience.

With bylines in Forbes Travel Guide, Eater Atlanta, and Tasting Table, and having visited every Disney park on Earth, Sarah Bisacca brings a wealth of insight into how attractions—big and small—can use food as a storytelling tool, a guest satisfaction engine, and a loyalty builder.

In this session, Sondra and Sarah explore:

• Nostalgia, Culture & Cravings: Why the best park meals are rooted in personal memories, local culture, and simple, well-executed favorites.
• Authenticity Over Aesthetics: How naming, storytelling, and intentionality separate meaningful F&B from cash-grab concessions.
• Technology with a Human Touch: Where mobile ordering adds convenience—and where it detracts from hospitality.
• Global F&B Trends with Local Takeaways: What attractions can learn from international parks like Dollywood, Shanghai Disney, and Hong Kong Disneyland.
• From One Item to a Signature Experience: How one standout menu item can become a brand-building, revenue-driving guest magnet.

Tune in for a flavorful and insightful conversation on how food fuels memories, guest satisfaction, and repeat visitation.

Connect with Sarah Bisacca: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahbisacca/

Connect with Sondra Shannon to learn more about Gatemaster’s role in shaping memorable guest journeys through smart attraction technology: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondrashannon/

🎤 Want to be a guest on our show? Apply here: https://forms.office.com/r/Y4kGTcaWw4

🎙️ Welcome to this episode of "Live with Sondra" where we spotlight the creative minds shaping the future of attractions and entertainment! In this episode titled "Bringing Stories to Life: The Power of Video in Attractions," Sondra welcomes Joshua Leppert, Executive Producer at Sunshine Media and former Show Awareness Producer at Walt Disney Imagineering. With over five years of experience in themed entertainment video production, Joshua Leppert dives into how video can do more than entertain—it can transform the entire guest experience.

From queue lines to in-attraction storytelling to immersive advertising, this session unpacks the massive potential of video to communicate, engage, and transport audiences.

Join us for an exciting session as Sondra and Josh dive into:

• The Role of Video in Guest Immersion: How well-crafted video content enhances storytelling and complements physical set design and scenic theming.
• Creative Process and Story Development: Josh’s approach to finding story in every space—whether you're working with a world-famous IP or building something completely original.
• Trends in Themed Video Production: Why even small and mid-size attractions should consider video—and how it’s becoming more accessible and versatile than ever.
• Practical Applications of Video in Attractions: From queue line education to safety briefings and experience refreshes, discover how video solves real-world challenges in engaging ways.
• Metrics That Matter: Why guest reactions—not just digital analytics—are the ultimate measure of a video’s success in themed entertainment.

Tune in for an insightful conversation on how video can be your most powerful storytelling tool—no matter the size of your attraction.

Connect with Sondra Shannon to learn more about Gatemaster’s role in bringing stories to life through creative tools and guest engagement technology: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondrashannon/

🎤 Want to be a guest on our show? Apply here: https://forms.office.com/r/Y4kGTcaWw4

🎙️ Welcome to this episode of "Live with Sondra" where we explore the intersection of technology, communication, and meaningful brand impact. In this compelling session titled "AI-Powered Messaging: Transforming Audience Connections," Sondra sits down with Kreda McCullough, CEO and Visionary of Vibe Solutions, to uncover how artificial intelligence is shaping the future of marketing—and helping brands build authentic relationships at scale.

With nearly a decade of experience and over 300 businesses served, Kreda McCullough is a messaging alignment strategist specializing in AI-driven content and brand storytelling. She shares how organizations—from attractions to service businesses—can stand out in a crowded market by getting laser-focused on their audience and speaking directly to their needs.

Join us for an informative session where Sondra and Kreda dive into:

• Defining Your Ideal Customer: Why knowing exactly who you’re talking to (and why they buy) is the foundation for magnetic brand messaging.
• Common Brand Messaging Mistakes: The pitfalls of trying to “speak to everyone” and how attractions can refine their message to connect more deeply with parents, not just kids.
• AI Tools That Actually Work: How to use platforms like Perplexity, Claude, and ChatGPT to uncover guest psychographics, extract insights from reviews, and build smarter content strategies.
• Personalizing the Guest Experience: How AI can help attractions create more inclusive, emotion-driven messaging that reflects real needs—especially for neurodivergent audiences and families.
• From Feedback to Strategy: The power of using guest surveys, social reviews, and AI tools to turn raw data into actionable marketing plans.

Tune in for an inspiring episode that blends heart, strategy, and the power of tech to help you create messaging that moves people—and gets results.

Connect with Sondra Shannon to learn more about Gatemaster’s role in transforming audience connections through smarter messaging: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondrashannon/

🎤 Want to be a guest on our show? Apply here: https://forms.office.com/r/Y4kGTcaWw4