Memory Makers Podcast

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Sara Paz, Chief Marketing & Growth Officer at Embed, for an insightful in how FEC operators can use data for business decisions and improving efficiency. As part of the Amusement 360 Partner Series, Sara dives into how operators can remove friction, optimize the guest journey, and futureproof their business through smart, tech-driven decisions. From the rise of mobile wallet payments and contactless systems to building a “fun crusader” mindset that empowers teams and drives growth, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help operators boost revenue, streamline operations, and deliver unforgettable guest experiences.

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Derek Rodner, Co-founder of Uplink Studios, about how to use STEM to enrich your customers. Derek shares how Uplink creates interactive experiences—like esports, golf simulators, and racing challenges—that engage the whole family while sparking curiosity and learning. He also highlights Uplink’s focus on community impact, from youth leagues and summer camps to 24-hour charity gaming events that bring people together and foster lasting connections. This is entertainment designed to build skills, encourage teamwork, and make a meaningful difference in the community.

In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta are live from Amusement 360 sharing how FEC owners make a difference in their communities. They share stories that stuck with them like Nic Parks of Level Up Entertainment in Columbia, MO donates his entire professor salary to a children’s hospital and created a fundraiser model that lets community groups keep 50% of arcade card sales. In Pennsylvania, Derek Rosner runs a 24-hour gaming marathon that raised $32,000 for kids in treatment, covering every cost himself so all proceeds go to the hospital. They also highlight Craig Erlich, CEO of Launch Entertainment, who spoke about the “special sauce” that keeps operators in this industry, as well as Metropolis Resort in Wisconsin, where frontline staff have grown into leadership roles thanks to intentional mentorship. The Johnsons of Rev’d Up Fun continue to invest in their team by bringing managers to Amusement 360 for growth opportunities. And one anonymous operator is even launching a program to give away 1,000 birthday parties to foster kids. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that profitability matters, but true impact comes from generosity, leadership, and making lasting memories.

In this roadshow edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta sits down with Chris Epstein of Laserforce from the Monster Mini Golf National Convention to discuss redemption, game modes, and secrets to successful laser tag operations. Together, they dive into how redemption is reshaping the laser tag experience, explore innovative game formats that keep players coming back, and share insider tips for operators looking to keep their attractions fresh, fun, and profitable. This episode has great insights and practices that can be applied to any attraction, not just laser tag!

In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta dives into 5 ways to elevate special events at your FEC. He shares how you can unlock new revenue and stronger community ties by going beyond traditional birthday parties. Russ highlights creative ways to make events stand out, from themed celebrations and STEM-based programs to seasonal attractions, leagues, fundraisers, and local partnerships. By offering experiences that feel fresh, unique, and tailored to guests, operators can keep their calendars full, strengthen customer loyalty, and create lasting memories that set their facility apart.

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny Gruening and Russ Van Natta break down what every FEC owner should know about SBA loans. They explain how SBA loans work, the differences between the 7(a) and 504 programs, and what lenders look for in applicants. They also cover realistic timelines, common challenges FECs face along the way, and strategies to make your application stand out. This episode serves as your roadmap for navigating the SBA loan process with confidence.

In this week's episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta shares how FEC operators can stop guessing and start growing with the 5 business data points to measure FEC growth. From revenue by attraction and guest traffic patterns to party conversions, labor efficiency, and marketing ROI, Russ highlights the five most critical areas to measure and shows how even simple systems, like spreadsheets, can uncover insights that drive smarter decisions, reduce waste, and create more powerful guest experiences.

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta talks with Michelle Gruening, Personal Growth & Leadership Coach at Action Lab Leadership and founder of MG Coaching, about how to grow from a manager into a leader. Michelle shares lessons from her own career, including how to delegate effectively, give meaningful feedback, invest in personal growth, and apply the “1-3-1 Rule” to develop problem-solving teams. It’s a conversation full of practical ideas for anyone looking to strengthen their leadership and help their team thrive.

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta breaks down leadership strategies for breaking through stuck points. If you are feeling stuck, you're not alone. Russ dives into practical tools like the “5 Whys” to uncover root causes, reverse thinking to challenge assumptions, and reframing techniques to turn setbacks into growth opportunities. Whether you're navigating internal friction or shifting market dynamics, this episode is filled with actionable insights to help you lead with clarity, collaborate more effectively, and continue making powerful memories

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, we hit the triple-digit mark!! In this milestone 100th episode, Russ Van Natta and Danny Gruening celebrate the journey so far and take a deep dive into what actually makes an experience unforgettable.

Russ and Danny reveal the five characteristics that define truly memorable experiences. These are the same qualities that turn one-time guests into loyal fans. They share real-world examples from entertainment centers, theme parks, and their own lives to help operators take a more intentional approach to guest experience.

They also introduce the "100 Memories in 100 Days" challenge, designed to help teams build a culture around creating impact and connection. This episode offers simple and powerful ways to help guests remember their visit for all the right reasons.