The Themed Attraction Podcast

Our guest is Patrick Kling, a powerhouse of creativity and innovation in themed entertainment. Patrick is an unstoppable creative force whose work spans interactive attractions, immersive theme park lands, and even a 20,000-square-foot ice sculpture experience chilled to a crisp 9 degrees! With a career that's taken him through Nickelodeon and SeaWorld parks, Patrick's passion for storytelling and design shines through in every project. As the Co-Founder of the Big Break Foundation, he's also leading the charge to break down barriers and create a more inclusive future in location-based entertainment. Join us as we explore Patrick's creative journey, his groundbreaking work, and how he's making a difference both in the industry and beyond. Connect with Patrick at bigbreakfoundation.org, watch Patrick's TETV video interviews on youtube, or shake hands with him on LinkedIn. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on Apple Podcasts and wherever you listen to us; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Our guest is Theron Skees, a visionary creative executive with 30+ years in themed entertainment. A veteran of Walt Disney Imagineering, he has led multi-billion-dollar projects worldwide, bringing brand storytelling to theme parks, resorts, and cruise ships. Inspired by Star Wars, Theron's journey began in film before shifting to theme parks, working on EuroDisneyland and leading Tower of Terror in Paris. His career has taken him across the globe, balancing creative challenges with personal sacrifices, including relocating his family. Join us as Theron shares insights on immersive design, innovation, and the power of storytelling in creating unforgettable experiences. Connect with Theron at The Designer's Creative Studio designerscs.com, get his book, Creating Memorable Worlds: A Journey Into Themed Experience Design at rivershorepress.com, then give him a firm handshake on LinkedIn. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

In this episode, we sit down with Jeanette Lomboy, Vice President, Executive Producer, Creative, at Walt Disney Imagineering. Jeanette has led the development of some of Disney's most beloved modern experiences, from the serene beauty of Aulani to the immersive worlds of Pandora – The World of Avatar and Avengers Campus. Her journey from Disneyland ride operator to shaping entire parks is a testament to her passion, creativity, and commitment to authentic storytelling. And here's the twist: we recorded this conversation live on the IAAPA Expo show floor—complete with 3D glasses and a massive 3D video screen! Join us for this one-of-a-kind, immersive interview as Jeanette shares behind-the-scenes stories, creative insights, and the magic behind the experiences that transport millions of guests to worlds beyond imagination. Connect with Jeanette on Instagram or shake hands with her on LinkedIn. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Our guest this episode is audiovisual visionary and Global Ambassador, Chris Conte. Chris is a legend in audiovisual technology design with over 30 years of experience creating immersive, location-based experiences. As Global Ambassador for Electrosonic, Chris has played a pivotal role in shaping some of the world's most iconic projects, including theme parks, museums, theaters, and even groundbreaking spectacles like the Sphere in Las Vegas. Chris's unparalleled expertise and innovative approach to AV design and project development have set a gold standard in the industry. Connect with Chris and explore the cutting edge of audiovisual technology atelectrosonic.com and on LinkedIn. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Join us at IAAPA Expo 2024 in Orlando for live events at the Storyland Studios booth #1073! Wednesday, Nov. 20 11am – Live interview with Disney Imagineering's Jeanette Lomboy 4pm – Storyland Design Challenge Grand Prize announcement Thursday, Nov. 21 11am – Live interview with Universal Creative's Bob Ward 4pm – Exclusive unveiling of Storyland's new 800-acre sports development Meet and greet with us and our guests each day—see you there!  

Our guests this episode are collaborators on the new book How Does Disney Do That?: How Disney Makes Us Feel and Why It Matters, James Warda and Theron Skees. Many books cover Disney, but James Warda and former Imagineering executive Theron Skees take a unique approach: exploring “why” and “how” Disney creates such powerful, emotional connections. Through conversations with former Imagineers, cast members, and fans, James uncovers patterns behind our love for Disney—and insights we can bring to our own lives. The journey is fun, sometimes whimsical, and always meaningful, enhanced by Theron's insider perspective from leading iconic projects like Disney Springs and Disney cruise ships. With a foreword by Disney Legend Joe Rohde, the book also supports Give Kids The World Village in Kissimmee, FL. Looking to grab your own copy of How Does Disney Do That? Here's how: Order directly from Rivershore Press Visit RivershorePress.com and use code DISNEYSHIPFREE at checkout for free shipping. Amazon How Does Disney Do That?: How Disney Makes Us Feel and Why It Matters Share your stories! James & Theron would love to hear your Disney experiences. Submit your stories through our website or join the conversation in our social groups: HowDoesDisneyDoThat.com Facebook Group LinkedIn Group Support a great cause! A portion of the book's proceeds supports Give Kids The World Village® in Kissimmee, FL. Learn more about this wonderful organization at GKTW.org. Connect with James Warda on LinkedIn. Connect with Theron Skees on LinkedIn. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Our guest is Architect and Theme Park Master Planner, Kevin Blakeney. In this episode, we've invited master planner and landscape architect, Kevin Blakeney to join us. Kevin's been on the frontlines of planning and area development for the top themed attraction lands people are talking about today. We're talking about Shanghai Disneyland, Hong Kong Disneyland, Toy Story Land, Galaxy's Edge, Universal's Beijing Resort, and fresh off the presses, Epic Universe. He also happens to be the Director of Master Planning at Storyland Studios and it's truly an honor to have him on board. Connect with Kevin around all things theme park design on LinkedIn. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Our guest is Theme Park Developer, DeLisa Guerrier. With her husband Elde, DeLisa Guerrier personally oversees commercial, residential, and industrial developments in and around Nashville, with a focus on investing in emerging neighborhoods. She's also dedicated to children's causes and is a key player in Nashville's philanthropic circles. And in the spirit of Walt Disney, she's building her own dream land to make others' dreams a reality - Storyville Gardens. So light up those earbuds and get ready to feel the momentum in the Themed Attraction Podcast interview with DeLisa Guerrier. Connect with DeLisa at StoryvilleGardens.com or follow her on Instagram @delisaguerrier, or shake hands with her on LinkedIn. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

There's no shortage of big ideas when you're with our guest today, Creative Executive Jason McManus. Jason's journey has taken him around the world from Disney's magic factory to the themed entertainment frontier of the Middle East bringing the seeds of ideas to fruition in some of the most innovative projects we can think of. So grab your favorite beverage and get ready for Themed Attraction Podcast interview with Jason McManus. Connect with Jason McManus at ThinkwellGroup.com and on LinkedIn. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Today, we're focusing on "designing with purpose" with my friend and mentor, Anthony Esparza. Anthony is an expert in creating unforgettable guest experiences. With a career spanning SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Nickelodeon, Paramount Pictures, and more, he's known for infusing every project with purpose. Join us for our second interview with Anthony as we explore his vast expertise in attractions, resorts, live entertainment, and media. Connect with Anthony at EsparzaHQ.com or on LinkedIn. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Join us as we delve into the intricacies of the project management realm. Our guest today is Jeff Burton, a former WED Enterprises Imagineer who has played a pivotal role in some of the most renowned attractions worldwide, such as Epcot, Disney MGM Studios, Euro Disney, and Sea World. Jeff, a second-generation Imagineer, is celebrated for his contributions in shaping the landscape of family entertainment and the global attractions industry that we are privileged to engage with today. He honed his craft under the mentorship of one of the industry's legends, John Hench. For more of Jeff's story, watch his panel with themed entertainment students on YouTube. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Our guest is Dark Ride master designer, John Wood of Sally Dark Rides. John is truly a pioneer and innovator in the theme park industry, and most specifically in the design, development and execution of some of the world's most iconic dark rides. John co-founded Sally Dark Rides 45 years ago to turn his clients dreams into rideable realities, with thrilling adventures, IP branded attractions, and unique storytelling experiences worldwide. Connect with John Wood at SallyDarkRides.com and on LinkedIn. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!  

In this mini-episode, Freddy announces the Storyland Studios Design Challenge for 2024. In partnership with Gensler, Storyland is offering a $25k grand prize to the individual or team that presents the winning attraction design concept. Go to designchallenge.storylandstudios.com for more information.  

Our guest is show control engineer, Linda Alcorn. Linda is a groundbreaking Theme Park show control engineer with over 40 years of experience bringing some of our favorite experiences to life. Linda, the first female electronic engineer at WED, played a pivotal role in shaping iconic projects like EPCOT and pavilions in Canada, France, and China. Her journey continued at Disney Studio in Burbank, supporting EXPO '86 projects, and later contributing to the initial design and installation teams of Disney-MGM Studios, Euro Disney, and Animal Kingdom. She was named a TEA Master in 2020. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

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Our guests are David and Valeria Beaudry of Beaudry Interactive. This dynamic duo of dynamic experiences have developed the technology to bring to life in voice and personality some of our most beloved walk-around characters in parks today, including that tallest of yellow friends, Big Bird. They were honored with a TEA Thea Award for this technology which is making authentic interactive environments a reality in parks and experiences worldwide. Connect with David and Valeria at binteractive.com and on LinkedIn. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Our guest today is Theme Park Art Director, Daniel Kerscher. Daniel Kerscher is an Art Director for theme park projects worldwide with decades of experience ranging from Landmark Entertainment and the TAA Group. Most recently, he spent 6 years guiding the art direction at Europa-park and Mack Rides contributing his brilliant creativity in one of the world's premier themed destinations. Connect with Daniel on Instagram @themeparkdesigner_73and on LinkedIn. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Our guest is TEA Master and founder of The Bezark Company, Adam Bezark. His storied career from WDI to Landmark Entertainment Group allowed him opportunities to conceive and design monstrous IP attractions such as Jurassic Park: The Ride, the JAWS ride, and Terminator 2:3D for Universal. For WDI, he co-directed the beloved IllumiNations nighttime spectacular at Epcot, and he was the show writer for Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure at Shanghai Disneyland. Connect with Adam at Bezark.com https://bezark.com/ and on LinkedIn. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Connect with us at IAAPA with 3 exciting events just for listeners of the Themed Attraction Podcast. Meet & Greet the Podcast Cast Tuesday, 11/15/22 @ 1pm at the Storyland Studios BlueSky Booth #1881 Come say hi to Freddy, Mel, Nate, and the one and only Dr. Barry Hill for our first official fan event, live on the IAAPA Expo Show Floor. Live Podcast Recording Wednesday 11/16/22 @ 11am at the Storyland Studios BlueSky Booth #1881 Listen in as Mel and Freddy interview a surprise guest. You won't want to miss the chance to hang out with this theme park industry master of the craft. You'll even have a chance to ask questions of your own. Meet the Themed Attraction Skill Sessions Crew Thursday 11/17/22 @ 2pm at the Storyland Studios BlueSky Booth #1881 Come meet the hosts of a brand new Themed Attraction YouTube show, Matthew Waller & Catherine Wilson, along with Nate Naverson, founder of ThemedAttraction.com. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Our guest this episode is Danusia Rogacki, Creative Services Manager at Canada's Wonderland. Danusia is a long-time Canada's Wonderland native, who started her career in Halloween haunts and park operations. Steeped in the park's rich traditions, she now gives creative direction to the park's themed offerings and seasonal special events. Connect with Danusia Rogacki on LinkedIn or at Canada's Wonderland. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening! Transcript coming soon.

In this episode of the Themed Attraction Podcast, our guest is Sina Bahram, the founder of Prime Access Consulting, and one of the Themed Entertainment Association's first ever Catalyst Award recipients. Sina's inclusive design firm helps attraction designers implement accessible solutions that make knowledge, culture, and technology available to the widest possible audience. Connect with Sina Bahram on LinkedIn, via his website at pac.bz and follow him on Twitter. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening! Transcript of this episode: Freddy (00:20): Welcome aboard the Themed Attraction Podcast, where we take you for a ride... through the wonderful world of theme park design that is. You've just set sail on an unmatched journey of discovery and discussion with theme park industry master of the craft. I'm your skipper, Freddy Martin, and riding the rippling river with me is theme park designer, master planner, and Chief Creative Officer for Storyland studios, Mel McGowan. Which way is the river taken us today, Mel? Mel (00:47): Freddy, we've got a unique episode on the horizon day. As we interview one of the Themed Entertainment Association's first ever Catalyst Award recipients, Sina Bahram. Sina is the founder of Prime Access Consulting. That's an inclusive design firm that helps attraction designers implement accessible solutions that make knowledge, culture, and technology available to the widest possible audience. And that we are so excited to have him as part of our extended team for a very special project, which I'm hoping you're allowed to talk about here. Freddy (01:16): Maybe a little bit. Sina is unique. I had the pleasure of hearing him speak at the TEA Summit and I knew his story would blow our audience away. So I had to ask him to be on the show. I immediately asked him to join us for an interview and he didn't disappoint. I'm telling you. His passion and enthusiasm for helping create experiences for everyone is infectious. I dare you to match his enthusiasm. All righty folks, keep your hands, arms feet and legs inside the boat, 'cause This episode is about to leave the dock. Hit it, Sam. Mel (02:04): You know, Freddy, when the ADA or Americans with disability act passed in 1990 that was a pretty groundbreaking deal for the certainly the architecture industry for the real estate development industry. You know, and actually we're excited to be working with one of the catalysts that really kind of worked to get hat passed. You know, and it has radically, of course changed the way new attractions are built, how old attractions are modified. I mean, some of the blatantly obvious examples, like the alternative experience with the Nemo sub ride, with the with the, the sleeping beauty castle walkthrough experience. Those are some, you know, kind of obvious examples, but quick question to you, as you've been able to go deep with this particular unique project and, really getting a broader understanding of the "specially abled" the disabilities of inclusive design. You know, my question is how should we approach attraction and experience design with the needs of our entire audience in mind? I mean, I'm asking that as a father of a deaf son and you know, we, you know, different kids with different types of dis learning disabilities you know, how do, how, how do we come across this if, if we're not experiencing some of this stuff ourselves. Freddy (03:26): Yeah. It's a, it's an amazing question to, to ponder and think about. And the you're hinting at a project that we're working on, which is really part of the mission of one of the biggest disability advocacy organizations in the world. And they've asked us to help create a space for them that tells ...

Our guests are Bob Rogers of BRC Imagination Arts, Mike West from Universal Creative, and John Wood of Sally Dark Rides. They share their perspectives on ride capacities and THRC. Connect with Bob at BRCweb.com, Mike via his company's LinkedIn “Innovative West,” and John at SallyDarkRides.com. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Our guest is Vince Kadlubek, founder and former CEO of Meow Wolf. Meow Wolf was started by Vince and several friends as a collective of artists who wanted to create art installations people could not only view, but walk into. And now it's grown into a company of experiential arts who have built three of the most mind-bending location-based attractions in the world. Connect with Vince Kadlubek on LinkedIn and follow Meow Wolf on Instagram, Twitter & YouTube. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Our guest is Christian Hope, Vice President of Paramount Studios Theme Parks & Resorts. Christian has contributed concept designs in development of world-class attractions here in the US and around the world. His concepts have resulted in some of the most visited location-based entertainment sites around including Disneyland Paris, Universal's Islands of Adventure, and The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney's California Adventure. Follow Christian Hope on Instagram @31thirteenstudio. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Our guest is Tony Bruno, former VP of the Disneyland Resort Hotels & the Downtown Disney District. Under his guidance, over 4000 cast members operated The 4 Diamond Grand Californian Hotel & Disneyland Hotel - as well as the 49 unique brands that comprise Downtown Disney. Today he leads Hospitality Development at Storyland Studios helping other resort brands elevate their hospitality initiatives to include exclusive and unforgettable experiences.  

Ben Thompson is a global themed entertainment and marketing strategist who spent the last 20 years in leadership roles at global monoliths like Mars Inc., The Walt Disney Company, and the Merlin Group, where he was responsible for opening 4 LEGOLAND®️ Parks and 40 location-based entertainment sites worldwide. Ben is now the Chief Strategy Officer at Storyland Studios London office and heads up their international projects. Our guest this episode is Ben Thompson. LinkedIn Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Our guest is Walt Disney Imagineering designer and art producer, Doris Hardoon. Doris joined the company for the Epcot project in 1979 helping to develop the China Pavilion. She lent her unique cultural perspective to international projects with Tokyo Disneyland and Disneyland Paris. Her crowning glory is found at Shanghai Disneyland, where she developed the legendary design voice for the resort that is “authentically Disney and distinctly Chinese." Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Jason Surrell is the Executive Creative Director at Storyland Studios. He was previously the Senior Creative Director on Universal’s newest theme park projects, Universal Studios Beijing and Epic Universe, as well as a creative director at Walt Disney Imagineering. Jason is an amazing storyteller, whether it be in the shows, attractions, or books he’s written. And he’s a great storyteller in person as well. Our guest this episode is Jason Surrell. Twitter Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Brandon Kleyla made his mark as a production art director for Universal Creative and Walt Disney Imagineering, bringing his love of spatial storytelling to two of the most detailed and beautiful dive bars on the planet, Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar at the Disneyland Resort, and Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at Walt Disney World. “Trader Brandon,” as his friends call him, is also an author and artist in his own right, culminating in comic books, apparel, tiki mugs, and one of the most laid back Instagram Live shows you’ll ever find. Our guest this episode is Trader Brandon Kleyla. LinkedIn / Instagram Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

In this episode, Joe Pine is going to help us trace the history and evolution of the world’s economies to what the themed entertainment industry currently knows as the “Experience Economy.” Besides being one of Mel’s thought leadership heroes, Joe Pine’s work has influenced much of his design philosophy and consequently many of the experiences he’s developed for clients around the world. Our guest this episode is Joe Pine. LinkedIn / Twitter / Amazon Show hosts: Mel McGowan  & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com  for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

Our guest needs no introduction…because he’s always at the end of the show! Dr. Barry R. Hill, our very own show producer and designer, is the author of Imagineering an American Dreamscape: Genesis, Evolution, and Redemption of the Regional Theme Park. This book tells the long-overdue story of the regionals and the strong-willed individuals behind them—where they came… The post TA Podcast E29: Dr. Barry R. Hill appeared first on Themed Attraction.

Our guests are two of the industry’s leading feasibility experts, the father/son duo Don and Doug Stewart of Economic Consulting Services. In the themed entertainment world, we like to think we build the impossible. But the impossible is not always […] The post TA Podcast E28: Don & Doug Stewart appeared first on Themed Attraction.

Joe Lanzisero is a 30-year Disney veteran who began his career in Disney animation and made the switch to Imagineering where he eventually became known as the theme park land expansion guy—think Critter Country & ToonTown in Anaheim, and Toy StoryLand, […] The post TA Podcast E27: Joe Lanzisero appeared first on Themed Attraction.

Eddie Sotto is a fixture in the themed entertainment industry best known for his contributions at Walt Disney Imagineering. He creative directed dozens of attractions at Disney Parks, including Main Street USA at Disneyland Paris, Mission: Space at Epcot, and […] The post TA Podcast E26: Eddie Sotto appeared first on Themed Attraction.

Our guest this episode is Jesse Crawford from WhiteWater West in beautiful Vancouver BC, the award-winning slide and water ride design firm responsible for many of the most incredible “immersive” (pun intended) attractions on the planet. Jesse is a sales […] The post TA Podcast E25: Jesse Crawford appeared first on Themed Attraction.

Our guests today have thought hard on how to tell great stories within a museum context and have the battle scars to prove it. John Kelton and Jon Taylor are veteran museum exhibit designers leading creative projects that educate while […] The post TA Podcast E24: John Kelton & Jon Taylor appeared first on Themed Attraction.

Get ready for fun! In this interview we are going head-to-head with one of the themed entertainment industry’s top “playologists,” Denise Chapman Weston of Infinite Kingdoms. Like many in this industry, Denise has been thinking up ways to create fun […] The post TA Podcast E23: Denise Chapman Weston appeared first on Themed Attraction.

Let’s go behind the temporary wall barriers into the construction zone with Dr. Jesse Kamm. Jesse is a 20 year veteran in the construction industry, leading teams as a construction manager, project manager and general contractor on projects inside and […] The post TA Podcast E22: Jesse Kamm appeared first on Themed Attraction.

Our guest this episode is the Chief of Guest Experiences at Carnival Cruise Line, Anthony Esparza. At Carnival, Anthony navigates the fun on the surface of the ocean, and before that he took guests deeper as the Chief Creative Officer […] The post TA Podcast E21: Anthony Esparza appeared first on Themed Attraction.

Mike West is Senior Director and Executive Producer for Universal Parks and resorts around the world. With the first 25 years of his career spent at WDI, and a second half underway at Universal, Mike is one of those guys […] The post TA Podcast E20: Mike West appeared first on Themed Attraction.

Kevin Sherbrooke is an AIA Licensed architect and show set designer who lives at the intersection of creative, blue sky concepts and the rigid structure of architectural design. Kevin’s background gives him a unique perspective on the ins and outs […] The post TA Podcast E19: Kevin Sherbrooke appeared first on Themed Attraction.

Our guest this episode is Senior Project Director for Miziker Entertainment, Sean Chung. Sean is part of a new generation of brilliant creatives making waves in themed entertainment these days. Sean has an amazing story that runs parallel to the […] The post TA Podcast E18: Sean Chung appeared first on Themed Attraction.

Our guest is Creative Director and project consultant, Chris Lange. Chris began his career in a scenic fabrication workshop in Germany before being tapped to design and implement an impressive string of major tourist attractions worldwide. Chris has been Creative Director […] The post TA Podcast E17: Chris Lange appeared first on Themed Attraction.

We’re taking a different route through the design jungle today as we interview a friend of the show, author Lou Prosperi. Lou isn’t our typical guest, but you’ll soon see why we asked him to join us. Lou develops curriculum for […] The post TA Podcast E16: Lou Prosperi appeared first on Themed Attraction.

To commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland, we tracked down former Creative Director for Walt Disney Imagineering, Tom Morris. Tom knows a little something about building theme parks and attractions. So who better to dig up […] The post TA Podcast E15: Tom Morris – Haunted Mansion Archaeologist appeared first on Themed Attraction.

Howdy! This episode features show designer, writer, and music director for themed attractions from sea to shining sea, Mr. Rick Bastrup. Rick made his mark in regional theme parks and family fun centers for the past 30+ years. His time […] The post TA Podcast E14: Rick Bastrup appeared first on Themed Attraction.

This episode features Mike Schwalm, Creative Director at Storyland Studios. Mike was previously a Creative Designer for Walt Disney Imagineering working with James Cameron and Joe Rohde’s team to bring the immersive “Pandora – The World of Avatar” to life […] The post TA Podcast E13: Mike Schwalm appeared first on Themed Attraction.

Come along as Mel and Freddy dig into conversation with Mark Eades, one of the Disney Imagineers who helped bring Epcot to life back in the 80s. He cut his teeth in Disney animation and film and was called up […] The post TA Podcast E12: Mark Eades appeared first on Themed Attraction.

In this episode, Mel and Freddy head up to the beautiful San Bernardino Mountains where we meet the new owners of SkyPark at Santa’s Village. Santa’s Village was a small regional storybook park built in 1955 and became a go-to […] The post TA Podcast E11: SkyPark at Santa’s Village appeared first on Themed Attraction.

In part 2 of their interview with Imagineer Tony Baxter, Mel and Freddy get into the nitty-gritty of the development of Splash Mountain with Michael Eisner, the extended story of California Adventure, and the pros and cons of attractions built […] The post TA Podcast E10: Tony Baxter Pt 2 appeared first on Themed Attraction.