Episodios

  • Ep. 94 - How to Create Immersive Attractions for FECS featuring Mike Ficarra

    Ep. 94 - How to Create Immersive Attractions for FECS featuring Mike Ficarra
    Jun 18 2025
    In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, host Russ Van Natta chats with Creative Works’ Head Concept Developer Mike Ficarra about How to Create Immersive Attractions for FECS. Mike shares insights from his work on iconic themed attractions like Masters of the Universe and G.I. Joe, exploring how physical storytelling, guest psychology, and IP preservation come together. He explains “forensic storytelling,” where guests discover narratives on their own, and how operational demands and medium limits influence design while obeying the laws of physics. The conversation highlights blending CGI, sound, and social gameplay to create emotional connections, while overcoming practical challenges through teamwork.
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    32 m
  • Ep. 93 - The Three 'E's of Being and an Efficient Leader

    Ep. 93 - The Three 'E's of Being and an Efficient Leader
    Jun 11 2025
    In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ and Danny break down The 3 E's of Effective Business Leadership. Those 3 E's consist of Efficiency, Effort, and Expertise. They explain why being effective (watering real plants) matters more than just staying busy, and share their “Done by One” strategy: knock out 2–3 important tasks before 1 PM to stay focused. They also dive into how to keep putting in consistent effort, even when motivation dips—because small actions build big momentum. Finally, inspired by Mike Tomlin and Steph Curry, they talk about the value of willpower over talent, and how the daily work behind the scenes leads to public wins. If you’re ready to stop watering fake plants and start seeing real growth, this episode is a must-listen.
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    20 m
  • Ep. 92 - The Hard Reality of Being a Business Owner featuring Armando Lanuti

    Ep. 92 - The Hard Reality of Being a Business Owner featuring Armando Lanuti
    Jun 4 2025
    In this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ is joined by Creative Works Owner and President, Armando Launti to discuss the hard reality of being a business owner. Together, they peel back the curtain on what it really takes to juggle the roles of business owner, team leader, and family person without losing your mind. Armando shares candid advice on ditching the myth of “work–life balance” in favor of a more realistic flow, dives into practical tips for keeping meetings lean and meaningful (like blocking focused time and setting 20- or 50-minute defaults), and explains how an open-door policy that is backed by weekly pulse surveys, one-on-ones with department heads, and genuine shop-floor conversations helps him stay connected to every level of his team. Along the way, he emphasizes his mindset to 'do it all'.
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    41 m
  • Ep. 91 - Want a Better Business? Tell Better Stories! featuring Scott Harvey

    Ep. 91 - Want a Better Business? Tell Better Stories! featuring Scott Harvey
    May 28 2025
    In this timely episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ is joined by keynote speaker, author, and communication expert Scott Harvey to explore how storytelling creates unforgettable guest experiences in the family entertainment industry. Together, they unpack the primal impact of stories, how they shape culture, and why your team—and your guests—need to feel like part of a meaningful narrative. Scott shares insights from his decades of experience, including his work as a former FBI trained hostage negotiator, and explains how crafting and owning your business story builds loyalty, boosts employee engagement, and fosters emotional connections. With real-world examples from Stars and Strikes and insights on leadership, communication, and culture, this episode is a masterclass in using story to elevate your brand and your team.
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    29 m
  • Ep. 90 - The Top 5 Lessons We Learned at Amusement 360

    Ep. 90 - The Top 5 Lessons We Learned at Amusement 360
    May 21 2025
    In this timely episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ and Danny reflect on the top 5 lessons we learned at Amusement 360. From Jerry Merola’s optimistic financial outlook on growth in the FEC industry to insightful operator interviews with leaders from Pins and Wheels, Conroe’s Incredible Pizza, and Airway Fun Center, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Whether it's rebranding with intention, creating unique community partnerships (like turning a police horse into a unicorn!), or empowering staff to grow into leadership roles, this episode offers a front-row seat to what’s working in the FEC industry right now.
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    22 m
  • Ep. 89 - How to Open a Family Entertainment Center: Key Milestones

    Ep. 89 - How to Open a Family Entertainment Center: Key Milestones
    May 14 2025
    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.
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    31 m
  • Ep. 88 - How Are Tariffs Impacting Family Entertainment Centers?

    Ep. 88 - How Are Tariffs Impacting Family Entertainment Centers?
    Apr 30 2025
    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.
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    19 m
  • Ep. 87 - Answers to Your Burning Questions About Family Entertainment Centers

    Ep. 87 - Answers to Your Burning Questions About Family Entertainment Centers
    Apr 23 2025
    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.
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    29 m
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