Memory Makers Podcast

In this timely episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ and Danny share how to open a family entertainment center and the key milestones you'll encounter along the way. From conducting essential demographic and feasibility research to writing a comprehensive business plan, they explore what it takes to align your vision with market demand, navigate funding challenges, and build sustainable momentum. This episode is packed with expert advice to help you avoid costly mistakes and make smarter decisions so you can create more powerful and emotional memories for your guests.

In this timely episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta gives operators a crucial "finger on the pulse" update about how the evolving U.S. tariff landscape is impacting the family entertainment center (FEC) industry. Russ breaks down how tariffs are affecting project budgets, timelines, and materials sourcing—especially for those in expansion, renovation, or new construction phases. He outlines three key project stages and their unique challenges, shares mitigation strategies like alternative sourcing and upfront purchasing, and arms operators with smart questions to ask their vendors. This episode is a must-listen as we as an industry navigate purchasing decisions in an ever shifting economic environment.

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny and Russ answer your burning questions about family entertainment centers in a grab bag style episode! We tackle a variety of hot topics and questions from listeners and operators alike, sharing simple, effective ways to boost guest engagement, repeat visits, and food sales. By highlighting practices like loyalty programs, staff-driven kindness, and community involvement, you'll build a strong brand loyalty.

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny dives into the mindset and strategies needed to navigate tough times as entrepreneurs and leaders in the family entertainment industry. Drawing on insights from thought leaders like Myron Golden and Alex Hormozi, Danny explores the difference between contributing and determining factors in our lives, the power of perspective, and how we can grow stronger through adversity. He also highlights the surprising science behind community support and how surrounding ourselves with the right people—mentors, peers, friends—can make even the steepest hills feel more manageable. Whether you're facing a bad five minutes or a tough season, this episode is a powerful reminder that you can handle hard better.

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny and Russ dive deep into why you should step away from the business to attend events. Fresh off attending Growth Day, an event hosted by Brendon Burchard, Danny shares his biggest takeaways—including how reframing yourself as the director of your own actions (rather than just a character in a scene) can drastically shift how you lead and respond in life and business. Danny explores how to translate 25 pages of powerful insights into real-world action, why showing up physically in the room makes all the difference, and how embracing uncertainty can unlock unexpected value. This episode is a reminder to be present, stay curious, and always make room for growth.

On this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ and Danny explore why mini golf attractions are so profitable right now. They break down the factors driving its resurgence, from post-COVID recovery and economic resilience to media influence and celebrity investments. The duo also dives into the latest advancements shaping the industry, including electric edging, CGI-enhanced courses, and emerging formats like Lucky Putt and Boutique Golf. Whether it's the timeless appeal of social competition or the cutting-edge tech revolutionizing the game, this episode unpacks what makes mini golf more immersive, engaging, and profitable than ever.

In this week's edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ and Danny review the 2025 FEC trends in the United States. They discuss the industry’s continued global growth, with projections set to nearly double by 2030, and examine how North American operators are adapting to economic fluctuations. Russ shares insights from site visits and market research, highlighting how reinvesting in secondary attractions and strategic bundling has helped businesses thrive. They also explore shifts in arcade and redemption trends, emphasizing the importance of perceived value and the integration of redemption elements in emerging attractions.

In this week’s edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ and Danny a question: what is a mastermind and why does it work? Danny takes on a new role as Founder of Action Lab Leadership, diving deep into the power of personal growth masterminds and leadership training for family entertainment center (FEC) operators.

He and Russ discuss the ripple effect of leadership development, not just in business but in personal relationships, and how a more intentional approach to leadership translates into better guest experiences. Whether you’re an FEC owner, manager, or entrepreneur looking to level up, this episode is packed with insights on creating lasting impact in your business and beyond.

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.

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!