🎙️ Welcome to this episode of "Live with Sondra" where we explore the intersection of leadership, fulfillment, and workplace well-being. In this impactful session titled "Boost Retention & Culture Without Breaking the Budget," Sondra sits down with Anthony Poponi, CEO of Focus on the 40, Positive Psychology Expert, and Author of The Little Book of Workplace Happiness.

With his unique blend of science-backed strategies and humor, Anthony Poponi unpacks what it truly means to create a workplace where people don’t just stay—they thrive.

Join us for a powerful and practical episode where Sondra and Anthony explore:

• The Science Behind Workplace Happiness: What positive psychology reveals about how fulfillment, purpose, and joy affect performance—and why it’s about more than just being “happy.”
• The ROI of Trust & Connection: How vulnerability, recognition, and trust-building fuel retention, innovation, and team cohesion—without spending a fortune.
• Everyday Strategies That Work: Simple, low-cost ways to elevate team morale, foster psychological safety, and boost culture from the inside out.
• The Power of Humor in Leadership: Why laughter matters, how it builds resilience and bonds teams, and when to lean into humor to lighten tough moments.
• Creating Growth Paths That Stick: Why knowing your team’s personal goals is essential, and how to build clear, meaningful career pathways that keep people engaged and loyal.

Tune in for a thoughtful and actionable conversation that proves you don’t need a big budget to build a thriving culture—you just need intention, tools, and a little bit of joy.

Connect with Sondra Shannon to learn more about Gatemaster’s role in fostering stronger workplace cultures and employee retention in the attractions industry: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondrashannon/

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

4o

🎙️ Welcome to this episode of "Live with Sondra" where we dive deep into the heart of hospitality to uncover what makes a guest experience truly unforgettable. In this inspiring session titled "The Power of Being Rememberable: Elevating Guest Loyalty & Experiences," Sondra welcomes back one of her favorite guests, Bob Pacanovsky, the Chief Hospitality Officer at the Black Tie Experience who is also a keynote speaker and author.

Known for his dynamic approach to service excellence and black tie hospitality, Bob Pacanovsky shares powerful insights on how businesses can deliver guest experiences that not only drive loyalty but become stories worth sharing.

Join us for an insightful episode as Sondra and Bob explore:

• What it Means to Be "Rememberable": How creating emotional connections and intentional service leads to lifelong loyalty and powerful word-of-mouth marketing.
• The Return on Relationship (RoR): Why emotional impact and guest trust are just as valuable—if not more—than traditional ROI, and how to build both through hospitality.
• Keys to Black Tie Service: The four pillars that set elite companies apart—hiring, training, leadership, and culture—and how any organization can implement them today.
• Hospitality vs. Customer Service: Why great customer service brings guests in, but great hospitality brings them back—and how to turn every staff member into a brand ambassador.
• Creating Culture from the Inside Out: How aligning teams with purpose, values, and leadership transforms organizations into unforgettable brands.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with real-world stories, practical strategies, and that unmistakable passion that makes Bob one of the most impactful voices in the world of guest experience.

Connect with Sondra Shannon to learn more about Gatemaster’s role in fostering unforgettable guest experiences and customer loyalty: 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 innovation, safety, accessibility, and sustainability are shaping the future of the attractions industry. In this session, Sondra is joined by Jacob Wahl, President and CEO of IAAPA, the global association serving the attractions industry.

With decades of leadership experience and a global perspective, Jacob Wahl dives into how IAAPA is leading the charge in redefining industry standards through collaboration, education, and advocacy.

In this exciting episode, Sondra and Jacob explore:

• Emerging Industry Trends: From intellectual property and short-form attractions to immersive overnight experiences and guest inclusivity.
• The Role of Technology in Guest Experience: How tools like dynamic pricing, mobile apps, and AR are enhancing both front- and back-of-house operations.
• Creating Accessible and Inclusive Experiences: Insights from Morgan’s Wonderland and IAAPA’s new accessibility white papers that help parks create welcoming experiences for every guest.
• Global Sustainability and Safety Initiatives: How IAAPA is helping attractions lead with purpose through new standards, training, and the launch of its first sustainability award.
• Professional Development and Talent Growth: How IAAPA is cultivating the next generation of leaders through mentorship, education programs, and international collaboration.

Tune in for a dynamic conversation with one of the industry’s top voices—full of actionable insights and global perspective!

Connect with Sondra Shannon to learn more about Gatemaster’s role in redefining safety and operations through technology and innovation: 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 powerful episode of "Live with Sondra", where we dive into what it really takes to elevate team performance, leadership, and revenue through the power of coaching. In this special session, Sondra is joined by her husband and coach, Jake Shannon, the #1 Elite Business Coach at Grant Cardone Enterprises.

Together, they unpack proven strategies that drive growth, culture, and high-performing teams. In this episode, Sondra and Jake explore:

• Unlocking Peak Performance through Coaching: Why a coach may believe in you before you believe in yourself—and how that unlocks momentum.
• Revenue Growth Strategies from the 10x Playbook: Jake shares the top reasons businesses plateau, and what you can do about it today.
• Team Alignment and Leadership: How to move from management to coaching culture and create a winning team that drives results.
• Lessons from Sports and Business: Why athletic performance principles like consistency, accountability, and metrics apply to scaling a business.
• How to Think Bigger: The mindset shift that separates stuck entrepreneurs from scale-ready leaders.

Tune in for this inspirational and actionable episode packed with insight from one of the industry’s top performance coaches.

Connect with Sondra Shannon to learn more about Gatemaster’s role in helping attractions boost revenue through coaching, technology, and aligned strategy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondrashannon/

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

Season pass renewals should be seamless, fast, and guest-friendly, yet many attractions still struggle with outdated processes that frustrate both staff and visitors. In this episode of Live with Sondra, Sondra Shannon, CEO of Gatemaster Technology, shares firsthand experiences and industry best practices for making season pass renewals more efficient and guest-centric.

In this session, Sondra will cover:

• The Guest Experience First Approach: How long lines and inefficient processing negatively impact guest satisfaction.
• The Power of Family Accounts: Why Gatemaster pioneered family memberships and how they streamline pass renewals for multi-member households.
• Mobile Season Passes & On-the-Go Access: How digital passes eliminate wait times and enhance convenience.
• Removing Bottlenecks with Integrated Systems: Why your POS and ticketing system should communicate seamlessly to avoid unnecessary back-and-forth.
• How Online Processing Increases Revenue: Guests expect mobile-friendly season pass renewals—don’t lose up to 40% of potential sales!

💡 If your season pass renewal process involves excessive lines, multiple receipts, and manual entry, it’s time to upgrade.

Connect with Sondra Shannon to learn more about Gatemaster’s role in streamlining operations, improving season pass renewals, and enhancing guest experiences: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondrashannon/

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

🚀 The GT Summit 2025 is here! Are you ready to transform your attraction business?

Join us April 9th-10th, 2025, in Arvada, Colorado, for a game-changing two-day event filled with expert insights, networking, and hands-on learning designed to elevate your operations and guest experiences.

In this episode, Sondra Shannon, CEO of Gatemaster Technology, gives you a sneak peek into what’s in store at the GT Summit, including:

• Our Industry-Leading MC and Keynote Speaker – We’re excited to welcome Ruby Newell-Legner from 7 Star Service as our MC and keynote speaker! A world-class expert and National Speakers Association member, Ruby has worked in 16 countries, helping businesses elevate guest experiences and service excellence. Her insights alone make your GT Summit ticket an incredible value!
• Breakout Sessions – Dive into essential topics like automation, guest inclusivity, and operational efficiency to help you stay ahead of the curve.
• Live Tech Demos – Get hands-on with cutting-edge solutions that streamline operations and boost revenue.
• VIP Exclusive Wine Experience – If you’re attending as a VIP, join Sondra for a private wine tasting event featuring the best of Colorado’s local wineries! 🍷
• Denver Food Tour & Networking – Build connections with industry leaders while exploring Denver’s incredible culinary scene.
• Group Tickets & Virtual Tickets – Take advantage of the group tickets we are offering and virtual attendance options if you can’t make it in person.

🎟️ Spots are limited! Secure your ticket now and be in the room where innovation happens!

📢 Connect with Sondra Shannon to learn more about how Gatemaster helps attractions streamline operations and create unforgettable guest experiences: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondrashannon/

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

The GT Summit 2025 is just around the corner, and if you haven’t grabbed your tickets yet—now is the time!

Join us in Denver, April 9th-10th, 2025, for two days of expert insights, networking, and actionable strategies to enhance your attraction’s operations. Whether you’re in ticketing, operations, accounting, or guest experience, this summit is packed with value you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, Sondra Shannon, CEO of Gatemaster Technology, dives into what’s in store at the GT Summit, including:

• Expert-Led Sessions: Learn from top industry professionals, including a special discussion on how to communicate effectively between ticketing and accounting teams.
• In-Person & Virtual Ticket Options: Can’t make it to Denver? Join us online! But for the full experience, you’ll want to be in the room where it happens.
• Exclusive VIP Experiences: VIP attendees will enjoy a Denver wine experience with Sondra, plus premium networking opportunities.
• Denver Food Tour: Discover why Denver’s food scene is one of the best-kept secrets!
• Why You Can’t Miss This Event: Actionable takeaways, direct access to industry experts, and strategies to drive growth, efficiency, and guest satisfaction at your attraction.

📢 Limited spots available—secure your ticket today!

Connect with Sondra Shannon to learn more about Gatemaster’s role in helping attractions streamline operations and enhance guest experiences: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondrashannon/

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

As leaders, we often talk about caring for our people, building great workplace cultures, and investing in strong teams—but do our actions reflect that? In this episode of Live with Sondra, Sondra Shannon, CEO of Gatemaster Technology, dives into a controversial but necessary conversation: Is your technology helping or hurting your team?

In this session, Sondra will cover:

• The Hidden Cost of Tool Fatigue: How juggling too many outdated or disjointed systems drains productivity and morale.
• Technology as a Reflection of Culture: What your tech stack says about how much you truly invest in your employees’ success.
• Breaking Down Barriers: The importance of seamless, user-friendly solutions that empower both your staff and guests.
• Future-Proofing Your Attraction: Why forward-thinking technology matters and how choosing the right system impacts your long-term growth.

💡 If you’re asking your team to manage outdated systems, constantly jump between platforms, or deal with unnecessary inefficiencies, it might be time for a change.

Connect with Sondra Shannon to learn more about Gatemaster’s role in streamlining operations, reducing tool fatigue, and enhancing employee and guest experiences: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondrashannon/

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

Thinking about upgrading your ticketing and attraction management system but unsure where to start? In this episode of Live with Sondra, Sondra Shannon, CEO of Gatemaster Technology, breaks down the four simple steps to partnering with Gatemaster—making the process seamless, transparent, and tailored to your venue’s needs.

In this session, Sondra will cover:

• Step 1: Discovery Call – How a simple conversation helps us understand your unique needs, challenges, and goals, ensuring we’re the right fit for your attraction.
• Step 2: The Demo Experience – A personalized, interactive look at Gatemaster’s powerful technology and how it elevates guest experiences and streamlines operations.
• Step 3: The Proposal Process – Transparency in pricing, including a discussion on why we don’t charge per ticket fees, putting more revenue back into your attraction.
• Step 4: Partnership & Success – From implementation to long-term support, how we become an extension of your team, ensuring your ticketing and operations run flawlessly year-round.

🚀 Whether you're a small attraction, a large theme park, or a unique event venue, partnering with Gatemaster means working with an expert team dedicated to your success!

Connect with Sondra Shannon to learn more about Gatemaster’s role in streamlining operations, boosting revenue, and enhancing guest experiences: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondrashannon/

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

4o

Providing legendary service isn't just a goal at Gatemaster—it’s our mission. Whether you're running a water park, amusement park, museum, or any ticketed attraction, your success depends on reliable support, seamless technology, and proactive solutions. In this episode of Live with Sondra, Sondra Shannon, CEO of Gatemaster Technology, dives into why 24/7 customer support and proactive solutions are game-changers for attractions looking to maximize uptime, enhance guest experiences, and boost revenue.

In this session, Sondra explores:

• The Power of 24/7 Support: How Gatemaster’s team ensures attractions never face downtime, even on holidays and after hours.
• Proactive Solutions for Attractions: Why anticipating and solving problems before they arise saves money, improves efficiency, and enhances guest satisfaction.
• A Real-Life Example: How Gatemaster jumped into action on Thanksgiving to help a water park prepare for Black Friday sales—and why immediate response time matters.
• The Link Between Customer Service & Revenue: How exceptional product support fosters brand loyalty, increases referrals, and boosts attraction revenue.
• Future-Proofing Your Guest Experience: The role of AI, automation, and smart technology in delivering seamless customer service.

🚀 Attractions thrive on delivering unforgettable experiences. But without strong technology and a support team that truly understands your business, you risk falling behind. Are you prepared for 2024?

Connect with Sondra Shannon to learn more about Gatemaster’s role in helping attractions streamline operations and enhance guest satisfaction through world-class support and technology: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sondrashannon/

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