Podcasts about fun spot america

Listen in to our special 300th episode at Fun Spot America where we get our (well two of our) first rides on AF1 as well as Mike marathoning Hurricane. Can't forget the beers, the fun, and the stupidity in this special milestone episode of TDR.

“AttractionPros LIVE!” has come back to Orlando! Each year, the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) hosts a trade show showcasing the latest and greatest in attractions technology, operations, and everything in between. Hosted at the Orange County Convention Center, the largest event in attractions and themed entertainment brings everyone together to share ideas, products, and much more. Once again, AttractionPros was given the opportunity to host a session to answer questions and gain insight from attendees - all of which is recorded for the podcast. In this episode, our guests share their struggles, experiences, and ideas to help each other and develop new strategies to take on the upcoming year.     Developing leaders to help reduce turnover Leaders impact turnover. Since leaders are so involved in the employee experience, it's no surprise that they have a massive effect on turnover. Matt emphasizes that developing leaders can not be a one time situation, and that it is rather a journey where you learn new things and lessons as you move forward. Josh shared that employees should be an investment, and that when you invest in your employees and work to improve their experience, it can make better leaders and also drastically improve the employee experience.  Rob Lara of Zoo Miami shared that he recently became the new leader of a team that had already been established. By implementing a system of 1 on 1s throughout his operation, it has helped his team understand each other and improved the employee experience.   More Frequent and More Timely Communication Between Separate Departments   Karen Burns of the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center shared that they have implemented mentorship programs where department leaders take on positions at other departments as well as an employee shadowing program to help build morale and buy-in by encouraging team members to explore other departments and further understand the operation.  However, it can be a challenge getting employees to partake in these great ideas. To combat this, creating incentives can be used to encourage employees. By creating a system where voices can be heard and people can earn unique benefits by partaking in your system, your idea can gain much more traction.   How to Keep Guests Engaged With Your Brand Technology is always changing, so to keep guests engaged, taking an approach in the metaverse may be the path of the future. Instead of winning a stuffed animal, maybe instead a guest could win an NFT profile picture to show off their time at your experience and compliment the in-person experience.  To keep guests engaged, companies have to adapt to the ever-changing climate of the internet and social media. By thinking out 5 to 10 years from now, it can help to create an action plan and begin to develop some ideas on keeping your guests engaged outside of your experience.    Burnout Due to Staffing Challenges and Turnover / Employee Appreciation Cole Sosnowski from Georgia Tech shared that on the academic end, after being burnt out by school and assignments, we can have little time and energy to do the things we care about. It's a challenge to improve after school activities without adding onto the already taxing workload. Megan from Universal Parks and Resorts shared that burnout can be tough when you're not only feeling tired, but also undervalued. It's super easy to give recognition and help employees when they're experiencing burnout. Purpose gives people a reason to push through burnout, and giving employees purpose can really help push them through tough times. When you lose purpose, that's when employees start to question their situation. Physically, we can do more than we think we can, but when we lose purpose in our mind, that's when we stop. Rob Lara of Zoo Miami shared that encouragement needs to be authentic. People need more than a paycheck and should be treated well in order to avoid burnout and contribute to a healthy work culture.   Karen Burns of the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center shared that to avoid burnout, you have to know your staff. By understanding their wants and desires, you can cater to that and help avoid burnout by making them feel appreciated. Dino Fazio of Morey's Piers shared that being specific in your appreciation is important as it contributes to the personability of the appreciation. Rather than saying “Great Job,” it should be more about what exactly they did and what positive effect it had.   Specific Recognition Within the Guest Experience Attractions are a unique experience for everyone, and by training employees to not give everyone the same ‘cookie cutter' experience, it can revolutionize someone's experience and make the entire trip more personable and memorable.  Brandon Willey with Hownd shared that the recognition of humanity is critical for both employees and for the guest. By recognizing people as an individual person with their own passions and interests, it can create a moment for a guest/employee and let them recognize that they're not just a cog in the machine.   Learning New Skills and Reaching Outside Your Comfort Zone Frank Hamedl of Fun Spot America shared the importance of getting comfortable with being uncomfortable. Taking leaps of faith into positions where you might find yourself out of your comfort zone will help you learn and become a more well-rounded professional.  Brandon Willey with Hownd shared that taking small little steps into your goal can be a good way to combat the natural uncomfort that comes with taking big leaps. For example, taking steps like buying a karaoke machine and performing in front of increasing sizes of crowds can help someone ease into a situation and follow their passion, even if there are obstacles like stage fright.   Jamie Flaherty with Xola shared that sometimes you don't have to step outside of your comfort zone when it comes to networking. Within the attractions industry, we're surrounded by businesses that share similar interests. By sticking to what you know, you can help break the ice and open the doors to a great conversation.   How to be Confident in Your Abilities While Still Being Inclusive and Accepting of Others Ideas and Contributions If you're passionate and proficient at something, it's important to recognize that you'll always want to become more passionate and educated on this topic. There's always more to learn, and you can become even more confident in your abilities by keeping an open mind.  Rob Lara of Zoo Miami shared that sometimes being confident means giving a piece of that confidence to others. As a leader, sometimes it's best to let your team give their attempt at tackling the problem rather than immediately taking it into your own hands. Brandon Willey with Hownd shared that everyone needs a coach in order to stay as good as possible. Every great team has a coach, showing that there is always something to learn and develop even if you are the best at something.   This podcast wouldn't be possible without the incredible work of our amazing team: Summary by Mason Nichols Video editing by Abigail Giganan To connect with AttractionPros: attractionpros@gmail.com

On this episode (Recorded April 15, 2022) Tommy & Tristan discuss Epcot's construction updates, changes to Animal Kingdom's Kite Tails show, Cotaland in Texas is getting America's first Vekoma Tilt Coaster, Tommy reviews White Lightning and Freedom Flyer from Fun Spot America in Orlando, and Tristan reads the history of roller coasters.Support the showBe sure to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify, and subscribe to our Youtube channel! YouTubeFacebookInstagramXSupport the Show!Tommy & Tristan's NSFW Comedy Podcast (Explicit Content)

On August 30th, 2021, AttractionPros hosted an interactive podcast with a live audience at the 2021 Florida Attractions Association Annual Conference.  While the topics discussed revolved around the lessons learned during the pandemic, the overall tone of the session was incredibly positive, focusing on the silver linings of these incredibly difficult past 18 months.  Questions to the audience asked for stories of those silver linings, examples of changes made during the pandemic that are likely to stick around, and also ways in which people grew personally during these challenging times. Jared Reid of Wild Florida Airboats said that COVID was “the best thing that has ever happened” to the business.  When the lockdowns came, Wild Florida was just launching its new safari drive-through attraction.  Because of the nature of their attraction, it was able to stay open while other attractions had to remain closed.  By focusing more on the local market and less on tourists, attendance soared from 200 visitors per day to over 4000.   Mary Stella of Dolphin Research Center discussed their pivot to connecting with supporters daily over social media platforms.  This led to increased engagement and donations from the people they interacted with digitally.  They also increased their distance learning curriculum.   Kara Laufer of Naples Botanical Garden emphasized the goal of “being a force for good.”  They worked to grow their online presence while finding ways to give back to their community.  One way they gave back was by offering free admission to healthcare and frontline workers and their families.  They've also partnered with food banks to help distribute donations to those in need.  During all this, their memberships grew. Rob Lamke of the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) emphasized that change is not inherently bad.  He discussed how sometimes there is a tendency to keep doing things the same way that they have always been done.  The pandemic forced MOSI to implement some of the types of things they'd already discussed but never committed to, such as a huge focus on digital content.  This led to increased engagement with their partner schools, record attendance to the museum and their summer camps, and a greater focus on engaging with adults. John Chidester with Fun Spot America looked ahead, keeping everyone on during the challenging times but asking them to try new roles, like landscaping, to help prepare for the eventual reopening.  While others were having to lay folks off, Fun Spot was hiring.  When the time came to reopen, Fun Spot focused on locals who hadn't gotten a chance to enjoy all of the parks' latest additions.  Additionally, while others were cancelling their new ride and coaster orders, Fun Spot was able to move up in the line and get new attractions in a more timely, affordable manner, helping them be ready for the recent surges in travel. Sara Turner with IMAG History & Science Center said that the downtime gave them a chance to reevaluate their mission.  They switched up their programming to become more virtual.  They also worked with a local news station to create weekly science segments, giving back to their community while also spreading the word about what they do.  They also gave back to their community with food drives. Christina Schwartzman of Sawgrass Recreation Park said that the pandemic gave them a chance to slow down and decide how they wanted their business to look in the future.  Instead of continuing to focus on getting as many guests as possible through the doors each day, they decided to switch their focus to VIP, low-volume experiences.  This meant there were fewer people coming to their attraction, but they were making more money.  Their new focus enhanced the guest experience by allowing visitors to have a quiet, nature-focused visit.  Additionally, the supply chain challenges allowed Sawgrass to partner with more small vendors who provided handmade items for their gift shop.  Christina also expressed the joy of getting to spend more time with her frontline workers. Julie Baross of Gatorland also discussed the benefits of switching to digital content to grow their engagement with kids and their families.  They also created a character, named Social Distancing Skunk Ape, to remind people to stay six feet apart.  Their efforts to reach out and provide free digital entertainment in 2020 have led to record-breaking attendance in 2021. Dean Mixon of Mixon Fruit Farms discussed the need to reinvent themselves during the pandemic.  The downtime gave Dean time to finish filing a patent.  Additionally, there was a greater emphasis on weddings on their beautiful farmland.  Dean also expressed his gratitude for local visitors coming out to support the farm, and he also talked about how thankful he was for the employees that stayed with them through the most challenging times. Janet Mixon, also of Mixon Fruit Farms, discussed another aspect of their pivot.  A Canadian company reached out to them and asked for assistance making Broghies.  This was a new line of business for them, and the popping nature of the machine that makes the Broghies has been a hit with young visitors. Lisa Sbuttoni with Fort Myers River District Alliance talked about the campaign she created called “Look Up, Fort Myers.”  Lisa hired aerobatic pilots to put on an amazing show that could be seen all over Fort Myers for the 4th of July.  Along with this, Lisa worked with local news channels to feature 26 local businesses and encourage people to buy from local small businesses.  Because of the community coming together during this challenging time, none of the businesses in the downtown district went out of business during the pandemic. Scott Rose with ZooTampa at Lowry Park discussed how they had to implement changes to their yearly, large-scale Halloween and Christmas events.  In the past, these events have been free for zoo members, so 75% of attendees were members.  Because controlling attendance would be important for this event and to combat no-shows, a $5 non-refundable reservation fee was required for all attendees, even members.  This fee was given back to people that came in the form of Zoo Bucks that could be used on food and merchandise during the event.  This caused more people to choose to dine during the event instead of before arriving.  Despite having to limit attendance, the huge in-park spending increase actually made the events more profitable while also giving those that attended a better guest experience. Barry Bass with A Means to a Vend noticed the trend of drive-by parties and gatherings happening during the pandemic.  He launched a new product, later named PromoPop, in response.  He put popcorn in customizable containers that could be given out as party favors during these drive-by celebrations. Aimie Johnson of the Florida Aquarium talked about how she amped up her collaboration skills during the pandemic.  When working with other aquariums who were also creating plans to safely reopen, Aimie freely shared her learnings with others while also asking questions about how the other aquariums were managing guest flow, holding events safely, and keeping employee morale up.  She also discussed the value of asking experienced pros to share their thoughts while also gathering the thoughts of newer employees. Kelly Sheer with Moonlight Promos shared how tragedy helped her make a difficult but positive change in her life.  Her doctor of 20 years sadly passed away  due to COVID-19.  This tragedy caused her to reflect and think about what she wanted her life to look like moving forward.  This introspective caused her to end relationships that weren't providing joy to her life and making a big move to a new part of the country to start anew. Robin Rosario with Pure Florida talked about how she'd always tried to shoulder everything herself, both at home and at work.  However, when she was hospitalized due to COVID-19, she realized that her family and her coworkers were capable of taking care of things when she needed to rest.  She realized how blessed she was to be surrounded by folks that supported her, and she was humbled to learn that she no longer had to feel responsible for handling everything on her own.   While Matt and Josh were asked to host the session together, Josh was unable to attend due to an unexpected breakthrough COVID-19 infection.  If you are on the fence about getting vaccinated against COVID-19, please note that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stresses that “high vaccination coverage will reduce spread of the virus and help prevent new variants from emerging.” To learn more about the Florida Attractions Association, click here.  For previous AttractionPros LIVE! episodes hosted at various conferences throughout the United States, click here. This podcast wouldn't be possible without the incredible work of our amazing team: Audio and video editing by Abigail Giganan Complete episode summary by Paige Reiter Scheduling and correspondence by Kristen Karaliunas Social media marketing by Kate Kujawa Branding and design by Fabiana Fonseca Email marketing by Sam Bercik To connect with AttractionPros: attractionpros@gmail.com

This week, we talk about Silverwood and it's new RMC as well as GCI and it's prototype track at Fun Spot America. Also, F.L.Y., Velocicoaster, Port Adventura and much, much more in this episode!

Quarterback Joe Milton and linebacker Cam McGrone spoke to the media at Citrus Bowl kids day at Fun Spot America in Orlando, Florida. In this minipod, you'll hear from Milton on his development into Michigan's potential starting QB, McGrone on what happened against OSU and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

VINTAGE SEASON PASS PODCAST: EPISODE #48- Fun Spot America from TSPP #262. Recorded at Fun Spot in Orlando, FL; John Arie Sr., John Arie Jr., and Patrick Tuten on developing Fun Spot. Brought to you by Super 78 Studio — www.super78.com  Panel: John Arie Sr., John Arie Jr., Patrick Tuten, Robert Coker, & Doug Barnes *Subscribe @ iTunes* Check Out The Season Pass Podcast Website at: www.seasonpasspodcast.com Follow Us On Twitter! - www.twitter.com/theseasonpass Like the TSPP Facebook page! - www.facebook.com/theseasonpass Check Out TSPP on Instagram! - www.instagram.com/theseasonpass  Contact us: doug@seasonpasspodcast.com brent@super78.com robert@robertcoker.com Thanks to each one of you for listening to the show.  Your support is extremely appreciated. © 2019 Season Pass Podcast

On Episode 31 of Ride This One, We are joined by Slater, Goliath, Intern Chris and the biggest of them all Brechner for a sexy good time. Garbear talks about his trip to Las Vegas and Slater talks about his trip to Silver Dollar City. We had a recent fiasco with ACE, so we had to play tribute to that too. Coastersexual Part 3 and a bit of group therapy make their way into the episode. We also talk about all this crap: Fun Spot America (the ATL one) gets some love in the shape of bumper boats and laser tag                At bankruptcy auction, only 1 bidder for Schlitterbahn North Padre: The Bank, for $20 mill                                              Early effects of Six Flags membership program: Guest spending up 4%, Stock up 13% Steel Vengeance opened, and closed, and opened again.          B&M Wing Coaster Fenix at Toverland is nearly complete!  and so much more. _________________________ Website - www.RideThisOne.com Call or Text the show! (267) 433-8447 Follow us! Facebook - Twitter - Subscribe Bitch!

Fun Spot America in Florida is building a fantastic new Gravity Group coaster for 2017. They finally decided on a name. We'll discuss... Kennywood has announced that they are adding a virtual reality experience to their some-what new Sky Rocket coaster. We talk about if this is really necessary. We'll talk about the upcoming auction at Knott's Berry Farm. You'll have the opportunity to bid on a variety of items from the park's past. EB has his eye on one or two items. Finally, Mike tells a funny, yet serious story about an experience he had recently in an off-topic segment. Thanks for listening to CoasterRadio.com!

Ride/Park reviews for:   Busch Gardens Tampa- Falcon's Fury / Pantopia / Cobra's Curse   LEGOLAND   Wet 'n Wild- The Last Splash   Fun Spot America   SeaWorld Orlando- Mako   released November 5, 2016

*Subscribe @ iTunes* Who said they wanted to hear an IAAPA review in March?! You? Yes…You got it!  Here's TSPP's review on IAAPA 2014 from Orlando, FL. Talk on IAAPA, Orlando, Universal Florida, WDW's Seven Dwarf's Mine Train, Justice League in Six Flags Over Texas and St. Louis, InPark Magazine's10 Year Anniversary, and the greatest Fun Spot America experience. Plus, audio of Bob Gurr kicking Doug Barnes off stage during a Walt Disney Birthplace fundraiser.  The whole team is here, plus Martin Palicki of InPark Magazine, Matt Kent of Oceaneering, John Wood & Rich Hill of Sally Corporation, and more!  Too much fun, Enjoy!   EPISODE SPONSOR: Bill's Amusement Park Shows www.facebook.com/amusementparkshows O-Zell Soda www.o-zell.com Inclined 2 Loop Shop www.inclined2loop.com   Links: IAAPA website Fun Spot America InPark Magazine Oceaneering website Sally Dark Rides The Theme Park Guy In The Loop Touring Plans Walt Disney Birthplace  MiceChat Pixie Vacations Season Pass Closing Song - Wheels by Enuff Z'nuff on iTunes   Check Out The Season Pass Podcast Website at: www.seasonpasspodcast.com   Follow Us On Twitter! - www.twitter.com/theseasonpass Like the TSPP Facebook page! - www.facebook.com/theseasonpass   Contact us: doug@seasonpasspodcast.com brent@super78.com robert@robertcoker.com   Call the Hotline with Park Trip Reports, Podcast Comments, or Anything else you would like to announce. –1-916-248-5524   Thanks to each one of you for listening to the show.  Your support is extremely appreciated.   © 2015 Season Pass Podcast