Podcasts about Kings Island

A year ago, Cedar Fair, the owner of Cedar Point and Kings Island, and many other amusement parks across North America, was merged with Six Flags as the parent company.

A year ago, Cedar Fair, the owner of Cedar Point and Kings Island, and many other amusement parks across North America, was merged with Six Flags as the parent company.

Happy Tuesday! It's Timmy & Dave Biddle in today, the great Columbus Icon Angela Pace stops by, we chat about Kings Island funtime, we say Happy Birthday to Carl Lewis uh oh, today is Bobby Bonilla Day, only one Buckeye may be a 1st round pick next season, Steelers may trade TJ Watt, we chat about sleeping in separate bedrooms, best Big Ten QBs & we do Rapid Fire.

Former Taft CEO CHARLIE MECHEM shares a rare firsthand account of how his company acquired and partnered with Bill Hanna and Joe Barbera, how it affected their business, the creation of Kings Island and other parks—and his fateful meeting with Roy Disney.

State lawmakers are expected to introduce a bill that would make it a crime to get an abortion; southwest Ohio couple accused of forging documents to steal a house from a man with dementia; Toledo police officer fired after attempting to buy marijuana illegally while on duty; an emergence of cicadas at Kings Island has an expert warning park visitors to keep their mouths closed while on rides.

On today's MJ Morning Show: MJ's suspended license revisited Morons in the news MJ's dishwasher problems How many times can you call 911 before you get in trouble? Mouth taping... we took calls When you go on vacation, take a photo of THIS. MJ IG... pounding his conch A man got used pants from Amazon Cereal recall for metal pieces Ridiculous graduation rule 10 most dangerous beaches in the USA New water fountain added in Tampa Underwear index Man fired gunshots at police substation, then turned himself in Pasco road rage A doctor involved in the case of the death of Matthew Perry will plead guilty Diddy trial update MJ underwear giveaway Good news: A Texas high school principal did something for each student United Airlines flight had funny message on seat-back video screens Gen Z's are angering bartenders Joey Chestnut returns to July 4th Nathan's Hot Dog competition Kings Island theme park warning riders to keep their mouths closed Jamie Lee Curtis on why she did ads for Activia News reporter under the microscope because of his salary MJ takes shirt off a home... even when he's cooking

We cover the Father's Day with Rizz experience at the big Bommarito 500 Indy race. Pilot covering "No Kings" protest goes viral with accidental admission.What Dads Don't Say: The Silent Struggle Behind Fatherhood.Cicadas swarm Kings Island visitors in viral TikTok videos.Billionaire dies after reportedly swallowing bee and getting stung in the mouth.Vance Boelter charged in shootings of Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses. Here are details from the criminal complaint.Sexy Time Fun Facts!Gen Z finally wants to have more sex — at the office, study says.50% Of Men Admit This Common Beauty Trend Actually Repels Them, According To Research.Having a low sex drive in summer is normal.How To Build The Relationship Of Your Dreams In 5 Easy, Research-Backed Steps.Match and The Kinsey Institute Unveil 14th Annual Singles in America Study.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A brood of cicadas has taken over the amusement park so badly that  guests are being told to keep their mouths shut when riding rides. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Visitors to Kings Island amusement park in Ohio are warned to keep mouths closed on rides because of cicadas, School fight: A 4th grade punch is avenged at age 62 and results in lost teeth, Insane Clown Posse accidentally headlines Bonnaroo after rain forces remainder of festival to be canceled

Joey and Nancy’s husband had great weekends celebrating Father’s Day. Joey went to Aspire Park in Clinton with his family and they loved it! Nancy had an extremely rude waitress last night and wonder if she should’ve told the manager. Karly found out the hard way that parking downtown is no longer free on the weekends. She got a ticket for $104. Hot Tea: Bonnaroo had to be cancelled after the first day due to weather. Ella Langley threw shade at Riley Green on stage. If you go to Kings Island anytime soon, keep your mouth closed on roller coasters or you may get a cicada in your mouth. Our friend Penny called to tell us a story. Joey saw the new How to Train Your Dragon movie and Nancy and Karly saw the new Karate Kid Legends movie. Both were great! Lucky 7 Nancy almost got scammed out of $5,700 on Facebook. Others have had the same thing happen to them. Watch out! An Air India plane with about 270 people on board crashed right after takeoff. There was only one survivor. We should find out the reason for the crash soon. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joey and Nancy’s husband had great weekends celebrating Father’s Day. Joey went to Aspire Park in Clinton with his family and they loved it! Nancy had an extremely rude waitress last night and wonder if she should’ve told the manager. Karly found out the hard way that parking downtown is no longer free on the weekends. She got a ticket for $104. Hot Tea: Bonnaroo had to be cancelled after the first day due to weather. Ella Langley threw shade at Riley Green on stage. If you go to Kings Island anytime soon, keep your mouth closed on roller coasters or you may get a cicada in your mouth. Our friend Penny called to tell us a story. Joey saw the new How to Train Your Dragon movie and Nancy and Karly saw the new Karate Kid Legends movie. Both were great! Lucky 7 Nancy almost got scammed out of $5,700 on Facebook. Others have had the same thing happen to them. Watch out! An Air India plane with about 270 people on board crashed right after takeoff. There was only one survivor. We should find out the reason for the crash soon. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cicada Invasion Continues: They're still here, causing chaos, and even responsible for a wild car crash that flipped a car in Blue Ash. Expect them for about three more weeks and hear about the mayhem they're causing at Kings Island, including being so loud you can't hear music over them.New Fear Unlocked: Asian Needle Ants: Just when you thought cicadas were bad, a new invasive species, the Asian needle ants, are arriving in Kentucky and parts of Ohio. Their bites are severe, requiring an EpiPen, and they're described as "pretty bad" and an "invasive species".We got some great Talkbacks from people breaking KiddChris' balls! Father's Day Fun & Real Talk: KiddChris and Sara dive into the often-overlooked holiday for dads, highlighting how fathers are typically "forgotten" and often just want to "hang out with [their] children" rather than expensive celebrations LIKE MOMS. Plus, there's a look back at favorite TV dads from shows like Modern Family and Home Improvement.

John Matarese talks about June is as a month for buying "guy stuff" like golf clubs, grills, and power tools. For patio sets, you can find cheap options on Marketplace or by "dumpster diving" the night before garbage day, or wait for big sales around the 4th of July.A new scam involves text messages about unpaid traffic tickets, threatening license suspension if not paid immediately, designed to get credit card information.Sara brings up the floating Hooters in Newport, Kentucky, has permanently closed after filing for bankruptcy, with speculation about Hulk Hogan potentially buying the chain. The closure is attributed to a lack of evolution and updates since 1992. The Beer Seller next door is also permanently closed.We have some listener "talkbacks" and a game called "Five and Ten," where callers name five items in ten seconds for tickets to see comedian Tom Papa. Topics from listeners included the Jerky Boys, Chris's personal calls to fans, and a humorous debate about wiping hygiene.A caller, with a background in organizational psychology, explained foot fetishes as a paraphilic attraction or obsession, which is similar to other fetishes like those involving diapers or cars, and is not as unique as some might think.Procter & Gamble is cutting over 7,000 jobs globally over the next two years as part of a "growth and productivity strategy," with KiddChris saying that remote work contributed to these cuts.KiddChris shares his experience of working from Kings Island while his daughters enjoyed the park, emphasizing the value of the season pass and the enjoyment of the amusement park.

This week, we talk about the opening announcement of Sirens Curse at Cedar Point. Then, Carsten talks about Wrath of Rakshasa media day. Next we go over the CoasterMania! Itinerary, and finally, Evan and Carsten give a trip report from CoasterStock at Kings Island.  

Paul and Mark kick off the weekend on a wide range of Cincinnati Bengals topics.00:00 Theme Song00:25 Intro: Cicadas at Kings Island and flag status04:34 BetMGM and baseball bets7:00 Joe Burrow's Batmobile12:19 Bengals' Ring of Honor changes16:57 Which Bengals' past player to join today's team?21:17 Contact us if you want to partner for the season24:00 Bengals' scouting department changes27:22 Is this Bengals roster better than last year's?33:15 The Jackson Carman award35:01 Bengals players as cartoons40:05 Favorite Athens bars42:17 Ambush Light: Parents at kids' practices48:01 Growl Pal spotlight51:04 Weird news story of the week55:00 Dad LifeEnjoy up to a $1500 bonus bet at BetMGM courtesy of The Growler. Use code GROWLER.Sibling rivalry fundraiser in the Growl Pal spotlight. Support Ainsley's Angels: https://donate.ainsleysangels.org/fundraiser/6073521Email for sponsorships and Q&As: thegrowlerpodcast@gmail.comWatch and subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGrowlerPodcastThe Growler on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-growler/id1733476604The Growler on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/70iJjqgPQrVzQ2pdOwVvDYLinks to all socials, podcast platforms, merchandise from Cincy Shirts and more: https://linktr.ee/thegrowlerpodcastSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

KiddChris discussed a weekend visit to Kings Island, dealing with parking and entry costs, and using AirTags to track his kids.⁣⁣Sara talks about the largest jailbreak in Louisiana history from a New Orleans jail, where 10 men escaped through a hole behind a toilet, with three jail staff suspended amid an investigation into possible inside help.⁣⁣Listener talkback messages were played, including comments about Slick Rick, a comparison of Chris's dad to a cartoon character, and a call from a man claiming to be a victim of secret mind control and implants.⁣⁣We play "KiddChris's Massive Organ" for VOLBEAT tickets!⁣⁣Sara has a story about a high school teacher in Mississippi caught making out with a student.⁣⁣Chris mentioned receiving an invitation to speak at a school in Michigan about a radio career, which he couldn't accept.⁣⁣KiddChris.com has a video of a man exposing his wife's infidelity at a party! It is INSANELY AWESOME!⁣

Joe speaks to Ed English and Vinnie Gleeson, who were involved in organising the Championship Bike Race happening in Kings Island tomorrow, May 17th. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today's episode, we discuss Backlot Stunt Coaster at Kings Island, Kings Dominion, and Canada's Wonderland. This Premier Rides LIM coaster was originally themed to The Italian Job and opened in 2005/2006, but does it still hold up? Join us as we discuss Premier's Hollywood aspirations, Cedar Fair's abrupt retheme, and…can headlights be classified as Intellectual Property?Our socials: linktr.ee/airtimetraveler

Kyle is off this week, but join Evan and Carsten as they talk about the opening of Top Thrill 2 at the park, along with other updates they've noticed at Cedar Point! Also, Evan shares details about his trip to Kings Island and discusses the sad news coming from Six Flags America. Finally, the guys offer tips on how to have the best day at Cedar Point!

Paul, Jay, Charlie and Mo hop into the livestream and let the draft takes fly. Come down to our live show on Tuesday at 5pm at BetMGM/Nation Kitchen & Bar at The Banks. Bengals director of college scouting Mike Potts will be with us in Nation taking draft questions. Plus, free Graeters, $3 Busch Lights and giving away preseason tickets. Why Mo is buying the Shemar Stewart pick.The most concerning element of the offseason build?What you won't do when taking kids to Kings Island. UDFA impact? Growler Bet winner! Watch and subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGrowlerPodcastThe Growler on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-growler/id1733476604The Growler on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/70iJjqgPQrVzQ2pdOwVvDYLinks to all socials, podcast platforms, merchandise from Cincy Shirts and more: https://linktr.ee/thegrowlerpodcastSubscribe to Charlie's Chalkboard on Substack: https://charlieschalkboard.substack.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, Carsten and Kyle go through the itinerary of CoasterMania! at Cedar Point. Then Carsten talks about his Kings Island opening day trip. To end the episode, Kyle gives us his SPOILER FREE review of Universal Epic Universe! 

Mike and EB are back with news about Epic Universe, Kings Island, Las Vegas and much more! Plus, Mike is back from his trip to California where he visited Disneyland and other immersive attractions. He'll tell you stories from his travels and give reviews of "new-to-him" rides and attractions!

Hello scar friends the Stephen got a scary show for you. Kings Island, The Russian Bishop House, Mandy the doll, Fairmount Banff Hotel, Marr Resident. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

With Hershend buying Palace, its going to mean a lot for the American park scene. The boys discuss all of that as well as legal battles at Universal and SFMM, retracking at Kings Island, ride closures, your fan questions of course and much more in this episode.

Looking for daily inspiration?  Get a quote from the top leaders in the industry in your inbox every morning.   Where will the attractions industry go next? Find out at IAAPA North America Summit, March 30 – April 1, 2025, at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel. Join executives, innovators, and thought leaders to build connections, explore trends through exclusive EDUTours, and gain strategic insights to put into action tomorrow. This Summit offers a unique opportunity to learn and grow alongside the industry's best. Don't miss the chance to shape the future of the attractions industry. Register Today! Allen Greene is the Senior Design Director at Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum. With a background in theme park design and experience working at Kings Island and with firms like Jack Rouse Associates, Allen brings a wealth of expertise in immersive storytelling and attraction development. The Ark Encounter, a life-size recreation of Noah's Ark in Williamstown, Kentucky, and the Creation Museum, located 45 minutes away, are part of Answers in Genesis, an organization dedicated to faith-based educational experiences. In this interview, Allen talks about building the ark, designing through the lens of the guest, and faith-based attractions. Building the Ark “It was a unique goal for our team to try to recreate as real as possible Noah's Ark, but also in such a way that it's a themed experience that anybody can walk into.” Constructing the Ark Encounter was a massive undertaking that combined biblical history with modern building techniques. The Ark itself is the largest timber-frame structure in the world, standing at 510 feet long, 85 feet wide, and 51 feet tall. Allen describes the meticulous planning process, including consulting with shipbuilding experts and using standing-dead Engelmann spruce harvested from Utah. The project required a balance between authenticity and modern guest expectations, incorporating accessibility features such as elevators and ramps while maintaining the look and feel of an ancient ship. The design team worked in parallel with fabricators to build immersive exhibits inside the Ark, ensuring that guests could engage with the story of Noah in a meaningful way. Designing Through the Lens of the Guest “Having a frontline exposure, and seeing what guests naturally do, the questions they ask, the desires they have, that comes into the designs that we think about every day.” Allen's early career in ride operations at Kings Island helped shape his approach to attraction design, giving him first hand insight into guest behavior and operational challenges. This experience influences his design philosophy at Ark Encounter, where guest flow and storytelling are seamlessly integrated. The Ark's three decks follow a structured narrative—preparing for the flood, life on the Ark, and life after the flood—providing a mix of immersive sets, historical exhibits, and interactive displays. Balancing thematic integrity with practical functionality, the team ensures that guests not only experience the story but also navigate the attraction comfortably. By continuously evaluating guest feedback and operational pain points, the team refines exhibits and pathways to enhance the visitor experience. Faith-Based Attractions “What we're trying to create is more than just a fun day at a park. It's more than just escapism. We want people to experience an encounter, not just with the Ark, but with God.” Faith-based attractions like Ark Encounter differ from traditional theme parks in that they strive to provide a deeper, more meaningful experience for visitors. Allen explains how their mission extends beyond a single visit, offering resources such as books, educational programs, and Vacation Bible School materials to help guests continue their journey at home. He also acknowledges the challenges of catering to a specific audience while maintaining an inclusive environment where all visitors, regardless of faith, feel welcome. The team aims to balance entertainment and education, using modern tools like virtual reality to bring biblical stories to life in new and engaging ways. The demand for wholesome, family-friendly attractions continues to grow, and Ark Encounter seeks to meet that need by providing a space where guests can both enjoy and reflect.   For more information about the Ark Encounter, the Creation Museum, and upcoming events like Spark at the Ark, visit arkencounter.com, creationmuseum.org, or answersingenesis.org. You can also connect with Allen on LinkedIn. This podcast wouldn't be possible without the incredible work of our faaaaaantastic team:   Scheduling and correspondence by Kristen Karaliunas Audio and Video editing by Abby Giganan   To connect with AttractionPros: AttractionPros.com AttractionPros@gmail.com AttractionPros on Facebook AttractionPros on LinkedIn AttractionPros on Instagram AttractionPros on Twitter (X)

Hull was born and raised in Ohio just outside of Cincinnati. When he was younger he was interested in politics and was a member of the Junior Statesmen of America. At the age of sixteen, he discovered his love of music when he performed pop and country revues at local theme park Kings Island. He later attended the University of Michigan.Hull had a number of Broadway credits before being cast in recurring role as White Josh on Crazy Ex-Girlfriend in 2015. In April 2017, it was announced that Hull had been promoted to series regular. He also had a recurring role as Travis Moore in the HBO comedy series Insecure. He played Logan on The Middle.Hull appeared in the 2017 film The Dark Tapes.[4] He also appeared in the 2018 film Benjamin directed by Bob Saget.In 2022, Hull was announced as part of the cast of a film adaptation of several Chekhov plays to be directed by Martin McDonagh. The film will take elements of several of Chekhov's famous works, including The Cherry Orchard.Discussing the wildfires and air quality @ 0:02Emily and David discuss the wildfires in their area and the poor air quality, with Emily noting that her young daughter has never had to wear a mask before. They commiserate about the challenges of parenting during difficult environmental conditions.Sharing personal backgrounds @ 8:19dh shares details about his background, including being a political science major in college who became disillusioned with politics, his experience taking the LSAT, and his shift in political views over time from being a staunch Republican to supporting Obama.Challenges of parenthood and work-life balance @ 40:30dh discusses the significant challenges of balancing his acting career with being a parent, including the high costs of childcare, the difficulty of taking on projects that require travel or long hours, and the need to constantly make sacrifices. He expresses frustration with the lack of support and understanding for working parents, especially fathers.Coping mechanisms and self-care @ 1:11:42dh shares that his main coping mechanism is "turning his brain off" and avoiding social media and news, as he finds it helps him manage his anxiety and vertigo issues. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing his own mental health and being present for his children.Recap and farewell @ 1:19:30Emily and dh wrap up the conversation, expressing gratitude for the discussion and exchanging well-wishes.

Looking for daily inspiration?  Get a quote from the top leaders in the industry in your inbox every morning.   This episode is brought to you by New Vue. New Vue is a team of attractions experts providing an ‘all-in-one' reporting suite for attractions businesses. Their reporting solution empowers attraction leaders to make well-informed decisions, based on real-time data. New Vue also build slick websites that elevate your digital guest experience and provide strategic support to help you with booking systems and all of your IT needs. Jim Futrell is the Historian for the National Amusement Park Historical Association and IAAPA. With over 40 years of experience researching and preserving amusement park history, Jim has authored multiple books and articles on the subject and is recognized as a leading voice in the field. In this interview, Jim talks about amusement park history, putting context on history, and shared experiences across generations. Amusement Park History “One of the first watershed moments in amusement park history was the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. It gave birth to the modern amusement park industry.” Jim discussed how the exposition introduced the Midway Plaisance, which became a blueprint for amusement parks worldwide. Attractions like the Ferris wheel captivated visitors, and the fair's profitability from entertainment inspired park developers to embrace thrilling rides and immersive environments. Jim highlights key moments, such as the development of John Miller's under-friction wheel in 1919, which revolutionized roller coaster safety and design. This innovation allowed coasters to evolve from scenic rides to thrilling centerpieces of amusement parks. According to Jim, these milestones laid the foundation for the resilient and ever-evolving amusement park industry we know today. Putting Context on History “Being a true historian isn't just memorizing facts—it's about contextualizing them within a broader framework.” Jim emphasized how understanding historical context deepens our appreciation of amusement parks. For instance, he explored how global events like World War I and II transformed the industry. After World War II, the rise of suburbanization and interstate highways shifted parks from urban centers to sprawling suburban attractions, such as Disneyland. He also shared examples of how past myths about the industry, such as Disney's alleged detachment from IAAPA or the history of Blackpool Pleasure Beach's membership, were debunked through diligent research. For Jim, the essence of amusement park history lies in connecting these moments to broader societal changes. Shared Experiences Across Generations “Amusement parks are one of the few places where you can share the same experience across generations.” Jim passionately described how amusement parks enable families to create multi-generational memories. He shared a personal story about how his family has ridden Kings Island's carousel for six generations, underscoring the industry's ability to preserve nostalgia while remaining relevant to new audiences. Jim noted that balancing tradition with innovation is critical for parks. They must honor iconic attractions while introducing new experiences that resonate with modern guests. For example, parks like Knoebels and Kennywood have thrived by preserving their history and making forward-thinking investments.   Jim Futrell's dedication to preserving amusement park history offers valuable insights into how the industry's past shapes its future. To connect with Jim directly, you can reach him on LinkedIn or Facebook. To learn more about the National Amusement Park Historical Association and IAAPA, visit their websites.   This podcast wouldn't be possible without the incredible work of our faaaaaantastic team:   Scheduling and correspondence by Kristen Karaliunas Audio and Video editing by Abby Giganan   To connect with AttractionPros: AttractionPros.com AttractionPros@gmail.com AttractionPros on Facebook AttractionPros on LinkedIn AttractionPros on Instagram AttractionPros on Twitter (X)

Monkey siege of police station; Breaking IN to jail in Texas; Pizza Hut Wine; WING IT WEDNESDAY with Brett Bogan from Waste-Free Dayton. PLUS, a 4-pack of tickets to Kings Island's WinterFest.

Was I really being creepy?; National Play Monopoly Day and the arguments that follow; Weasel thief; Irrational fears about fruit; Tasty Tuesday and Ohio's most GOOGLE pie; Mail Call and explaining the URBANA PARODY; And a 4-pack of tickets to Winterfest at Kings Island.

Welcome back to Cancelled Cuzzies! On this week's episode Lance (Lunarus) from "Sinngle Rider Line Podcast" joins the show to discuss a plethora of topics from EDM, video games, podcasting, to leaving religion and the role Kings Island had in escaping dark times. Due to the sensitive nature of our stories shared from leaving religion and the lows associated with that listen to this one at your own discretion if those are sensitive topics. Link to Single Rider Line Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ZyuoYVr0dDH70hfKjmpAz?si=f0f506fecab64413 Chat with us on Discord: https://discord.gg/abTDb3eVav Support the Cuzzies on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/user?u=38631549⁠ Links to all things Coaster Cuzzies: solo.to/coastercuzzies%E2%81%A0 See y'all next Friday! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/coastercuzzies/support

Kings Island legend DENNIS SPIEGEL talks about his role in the creation of Kings Island, as well as songwriting, sailing, and cooking with Bill Hanna. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A fatality is such a rare event at a theme park or fair, we could only find 17 deaths in Ohio over the course of 150 years. But when tragedy strikes, it is often made all the more chilling because it always comes when people are in the midst of having carefree fun. In this episode, we revisit the worst days at Kings Island, Cedar Point, the Ohio State Fair and local county fairs. www.ohiomysteries.com feedback@ohiomysteries.com www.patreon.com/ohiomysteries www.twitter.com/mysteriesohio www.facebook.com/ohiomysteries Additional music: New Horizon - Aderin; Audionautix- The Great Unknown; The Great Phospher- Daniel Birch Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"The Beast" at Kings Island is an iconic roller coaster. Even members of the general public from around the world have heard of it. So would it be a crazy idea if the park essentially built a second roller coaster and then just connected it to the original Beast? We'll talk about that along with a bunch of other news and rumors. PLUS, we'll take your listener questions!

In today's episode, we discuss Diamondback at Kings Island in Mason, OH. Largely considered one of the world's best hyper coasters, this attraction has thrilled over 20 million people since it opened. Join us as we discuss Cedar Fair's love of hyper coasters, the purpose of B&M's splashdown element, and...is Orion better than Diamondback? Socials: linktr.ee/airtimetraveler

This week we talk about Kings Dominion's new for 2025 launched wing coaster, Rapterra. Then we talk about some more teases across the chain. Carsten gives us his trip report from Boardwalk Nights at Cedar Point, and Evan gives us his trip report from Kings Island 

Known by his peers for his infectious creativity and enthusiasm, Geoff Thatcher is an experienced creative leader who knows how to take a project from concept to reality. For most of his career, these projects have involved creating world-class experiences in theme parks, museums, visitor centers, brand experiences, and live events. Geoff's eclectic background always delivers a fresh perspective. His experience includes everything from helping the General Entertainment Authority declare Saudi Arabia open for business to Hollywood in 2018 to envisioning new concepts for Miral on Abu Dhabi's Yas Island. Geoff's work transcends borders, whether it's the world's largest video dome on a beach in Dubai or the opening ceremonies of the Rio 2007 Pan American Games in Maracanā Stadium. Recent and current projects include the Delta Flight Museum, Abu Dhabi's Playtopia, College Football Hall of Fame, Jacksonville's H2.O Purification Center, Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, the FM Global Visitor Center outside Boston, and the Speed Experience Center in Saudi Arabia's Qiddiya giga project. His work can be seen in attractions such as the Ozark Mill at Finley Farms outside Branson, Missouri, the Quest theme park in Doha, and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. Geoff is a student of the themed entertainment industry who got his start working as a teenage clean-up boy, lifeguard, train engineer, and stuntman at Lagoon Amusement Park & Pioneer Village in Utah. Before founding Creative Principals in 2017, Geoff was a creative writer, producer, and creative director for JRA, FiveCurrents, and The Brand Experience. He worked on various world-class projects in these roles, including brand experiences like the Lockheed Martin Space Experience Center, museums like Enguinity in the United Kingdom, and theme parks like the Polynesian Cultural Center in Hawaii. Clients included Fortune 500 icons such as Honeywell and Procter & Gamble and institutions and non-profits such as Kaiser Permanente. He is an author, writer, and speaker who has ghostwritten books, published articles, and speaks regularly at TEA and IAAPA events. His first book, The CEO's Time Machine, was published in April 2020. TD Magazine said the book is “a great way to prepare your mindset going into conversations about how your business can navigate our new, uncertain world.” He was featured on Science Channel's show If We Built It Today, discussing how “The Lost City of Atlantis” could be transformed into an attraction. Finally, he launched and owned Ask Buzz, a website and attraction calculator honoring the late Harrison “Buzz” Price. Instagram: @geoffthatcher X: @geoffthatcher LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoffthatcher/ www.creativeprincipals.com Geoff's Work and Book Discussion Theme Park Experiences and Career Paths Geoff, a veteran of the theme park industry, shared his passion for creating memorable experiences and telling powerful stories with Michael, who agreed on the importance of experiences over possessions. They reminisced about their favorite parks, with Michael mentioning Kings Island and Geoff discussing the global impact of Kings Island's success. Geoff highlighted the benefits of hands-on experience in the amusement industry and the variety of career paths available, including engineering, hospitality, and space travel. Geoff's work as a writer was also discussed, with Michael showing interest in his motivation for writing a book. Geoff's Time Travel Book Journey Geoff shared the story of how he wrote "The CEO's Time Machine" while travelling to Saudi Arabia for work. The book explores the idea of time travel and the challenges of making decisions in the present. Geoff had initially intended to publish the book himself, but due to the pandemic, he collaborated with his daughter Zoe, who designed and illustrated the book. The book was eventually published in April 2020, and although it wasn't a bestseller, Geoff expressed pride in its positive reviews. Debating Time Machine and Future-Thinking Geoff and Michael debated the pros and cons of a time machine, particularly focusing on its impact on decision-making and future-thinking. Michael highlighted the potential benefits of learning from past events and historical figures, but also noted the potential drawbacks of knowing tragic events in advance. Geoff, drawing from his experience with a history exhibit, underscored the value of a forward-looking perspective, using the example of an invisible airplane, and argued that envisioning and living in the future could offer insights that are currently unavailable. AI Enhancing Immersive Experiences in Concerts Geoff and Michael discussed the future of immersive experiences in the experience industry, with a focus on the integration of AI. They agreed that AI has the potential to transform the industry, much like animatronics and other techniques have in the past. They also discussed the evolution of music concert experiences, particularly the use of holographic technology. They highlighted how current technology, such as the new stadium in Vegas and the YouTube concert sphere, offers a more immersive experience compared to traditional concerts, and how AI enhances these experiences by enabling virtual participation and on-stage performances.    

It's time to talk about CNC2024!  Every year, Matt and his friends visit multiple theme and amusement parks throughout the country, leading to lasting memories and lessons related to business operations, leadership, and guest experience.  In this episode, Matt and Josh delve into a wide array of insights gleaned from Matt's recent experiences at various theme parks and attractions. From operational challenges to guest-centric strategies, they explore themes ranging from the impact of effective systems on employee performance to the nuances of guest behavior and the evolving definition of immersion in theme park experiences. There's always more to the story Matt and Josh emphasize the complexity behind operational decisions, corporate mergers, and guest interactions within theme parks. They discuss how behind every situation lies a deeper narrative, and stress the importance of considering the broader context when analyzing guest experiences and operational challenges. The spieling ride op is back Reflecting on the pivotal role of enthusiastic ride operators, Matt shares how their engaging interactions can significantly enhance guest experiences. They highlight the importance of passionate employees in shaping positive guest perceptions and memorable moments.  While an automated spiel creates consistency and efficiency, the personalized approach allows for increased guest engagement, an enhanced experience, and for messages of safety and loading procedures to be adhered to more effectively than an automated message. Your systems need to support your people Observations about audio quality sparked a discussion on the critical role of operational systems in supporting employees. Matt and Josh stress that efficient and user-friendly systems are essential for staff to deliver exceptional service. They draw from personal experiences where technical failures hindered operational effectiveness and guest satisfaction.  Whether it's a microphone and PA system, point of sale software, or ticket scanners, ensuring that these systems can be easily used by employees impacts the employee and guest experience alike. How guest behavior impacts operations Exploring the dynamic relationship between guest behavior and park operations, Matt and Josh discuss examples where guest preferences influence operational decisions. They highlight how parks adapt to meet guest expectations, such as extending ride hours for popular attractions like The Beast at Kings Island.  Even 45 years later, The Beast is still regarded as an iconic attraction and maintains a strong fandom specifically around night rides. As a result, the park extends operating hours only for The Beast, even after the rest of the park has closed, to align the park's operations around a guest-centric mentality. The real definition of immersion Matt and Josh challenge conventional views of immersion, expanding the concept beyond technology-driven experiences. They explore how both high-tech innovations and low-tech interactions can create immersive guest experiences by fostering genuine engagement and memorable moments.  They conclude that the definition of an immersive experience is when guests are fully present and free of distractions, whether they are standing on a ride platform after putting their phones in a locker or wearing a VR headset.  While immersive is often aligned with state-of-the-art technology, the concept can and should be expanded into other applications that allow guests to be fully present.   To connect with AttractionPros: AttractionPros.com AttractionPros@gmail.com AttractionPros on Facebook AttractionPros on LinkedIn AttractionPros on Instagram AttractionPros on Twitter (X)

A man is hit by a roller coaster at Kings Island, a man throws furniture off a high-rise in NYC, and a social media influencer does some good. Is this anything? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on the premier comedy roller coaster podcast, Ben and Zach discuss why if Banshee at Kings Island is your favorite roller coaster, than your favorite coaster sucks. Also we talk about Dark Universe at Universal's Epic Universe, Communicore Hall at EPCOT and much more! Actually, we're the worst roller coaster podcast!Find and contact us here:Join our email list: https://sendfox.com/yourfavoritecoastersuckshttps://www.yourfavoritecoastersucks.com/YourFavoriteCoasterSucks@gmail.comText/Voicemail (312) 572-9552Instagram @YourFavoriteCoasterSucksTwitter @YFCS_podwww.facebook.com/UrFavCoasterSuxwww.yourfavoritecoastersucks.tumblr.comJoin our Discord server here: https://discord.gg/uNVud4TIf you enjoy the show please consider throwing us a buck or two www.patreon.com/yourfavoritecoastersucks

Ditching your car in traffic; Cars into buildings #61; Kings Island coaster incident; Tall Girl Appreciation Day; Senior Discounts--when are you a senior?; ANGRY? Get Naked; Ohio Doesn't Suck...that bad; Dumb Ways to Die;

Creating an attraction is far more than installing track and building a station. Theming and ride design are easy to overlook, but they can add so much more to the experience. Correspondent Bob Randolph meets with Rick Backstrup, president of R&R Creative Amusement Designs, to shed new light on this key facet of the ride experience.   You may not be familiar with his name yet, but if you're listening to our podcast, you've probably seen his work. His team has developed many themed attractions including elements like station design, queue lines, colors, names and more on legendary rides, including Viper (Six Flags Magic Mountain), Exterminator (Kennywood), Adventure Express (Kings Island), Merlin's Mayhem (Dutch Wonderland) and so many more. One of their beloved attractions is Kings Island's defunct Phantom Theater. Will that be making a comeback? Listen to find out!   In this Episode: [1:30] Meet Rick [8:50] R&R Creative's unusual origin story [15:15] How Phantom Theater came to be [23:11] Creating backstories [34:09] Working on the National Roller Coaster Museum   Buy Rick's book! Adventures of a Theme Park Designer from Rivershore Press    Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.   Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by: Having an impact on the future of ACE Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences Developing friendships in a small group Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE   Podcast Volunteer Team  Host: Jessica Gardner Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph Show Notes: Liz Tan Production Manager: Corey Wooten Correspondents: John Davidson and Bryant Yeager  

This week we talk about the most recent news surrounding Top Thrill 2. Evan and Carsten talk about their recent trip to Kings Island's brand new addition, Camp Snoopy, and the parks newest ride, Snoopy's Soap Box Racers. Then, they talk about their experience at Holiwood Nights at Holiday World. Finally, Kyle gives us a look at the updated CoasterMania! Itenerary.

The ACE Spring Conference took place from May 17-19, 2024 at Kings Island in Ohio. ACE members from across the world joined in the fun, which included morning and evening ERT (Exclusive Ride Time), behind-the-scenes tours, informal takeovers, buffet meals and more. We'll finish our coverage of the event with an in-depth recap of the event and conference highlights. Some of Kings Island's most famous visitors remain The Brady Bunch. Spring Conference included a screening of The Brady Bunch “Cincinnati Kids” episode that was filmed in the park. Listen in as The Gravity Group sings their own special version of The Brady Bunch theme song, then gather round for an interview with Chad Showalter, Director of Communications at Kings Island.   We wrap up with the June events calendar listing all the upcoming ACE events with registration still open as of the release date of this episode.   In this Episode: [1:25] The podcast team recaps the Spring Conference experience [56:03] The Gravity Group sings The Brady Bunch theme song  [1:05:14] Chad Showalter Interview [1:19:32] Events Calendar  Listen to the Building a Backyard Coaster episode which is mentioned in this week's show: https://aceonline.podbean.com/e/61/   Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.   Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by: Having an impact on the future of ACE Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences Developing friendships in a small group Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE   Podcast Volunteer Team  Host: Jessica Gardner Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph Show Notes: Liz Tan Production Manager: Corey Wooten Correspondents: John Davidson and Bryant Yeager

Our episode  this week is the second part of our conversation with immersive experiences designer Dave Cobb.For almost thirty years Dave has worked on numerous world-famous attractions at locations as varied as Universal Studios Florida, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Paramount Parks across North America at Kings Island, Kings Dominion, California's Great Adventure and Canada's Wonderland. This week, the conversation expands in new and exciting directions...including many other immersive experiences that we didn't even know existed!  So strap in for adventure, fun and some heartfelt emotion...BEST JOURNEY! Dave's LinktreeBatuu PrideThe Arkham Asylum FilesThe Kyberpunks - "Yes, Disintegrations"Support the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

The ACE Spring Conference took place May 17-19, 2024 at Kings Island in Ohio. ACE members from across the region and across the country joined in the fun, which included morning and evening ERT, behind-the-scenes tours, informal takeovers, buffet meals and more.   The event also included some very special presentations from Dennis Speigel, founder and CEO of International Theme Park Services, Inc. Dennis shared his experience working on the 1977 movie Rollercoaster, Mike Koontz, Vice President and General Manager of Kings Island also presented and finally, ACE President Elizabeth Ringas and Events Director Steve Berto gave out some special awards.    Almost all of the podcast team was on hand to experience the fun and be part of this presentation. We're thrilled to bring a recording of that presentation in this episode of our podcast.   In this Episode: [1:42] Dennis Speigel shares the origins of and his role in creating the movie Rollercoaster [19:43] Mike Koontz takes the stage and shares his theme park experience and great Kings Island stories [49:55] Elizabeth Ringas and events director Steve Berto bring Chad Showalter to the stage and present several very special awards Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.   Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by: Having an impact on the future of ACE Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences Developing friendships in a small group Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE   Podcast Volunteer Team  Host: Jessica Gardner Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph Show Notes: Liz Tan Production Manager: Corey Wooten Correspondents: John Davidson and Bryant Yeager

This week we were whisked away on a magical trip aboard the Halcyon along with Immersive Experiences Designer Dave Cobb.  For almost thirty years Dave has worked on numerous world-famous attractions at locations as varied as Universal Studios Florida, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Paramount Parks across North America at Kings Island, Kings Dominion, California's Great Adventure and Canada's Wonderland. Revisting the Halcyon (and beyond!) along with Dave was a wonderful trip that was too much fun for just one episode!  This week we present Part 1 which focuses primarily on Galactic Starcruiser, while Part 2 next week expands the conversation in new and exciting directions...including many other immersive experiences that we didn't even know existed!  So strap in for adventure, fun and some heartfelt emotion...BEST JOURNEY!Dave's LinktreeBatuu PrideThe Arkham Asylum FilesSupport the Show.Heroes of the Halcyon on InstagramTheme Music ("Digital Discourse") by Yellow BarrelSend your email to heroesofthehalcyon@gmail.com - we'd love to hear from you about your journeys, episode suggestions, or just to say hi!

It's hard to believe it, but we're nearing the summer season at theme parks. Last year, I had a great time visiting Kings Island and Silver Dollar City along with Disneyland and Universal Hollywood. What's next for 2024? On this episode of the Tomorrow Society Podcast, I dive into the parks that I hope to visit this summer and beyond.… Read more... The post 231. My Theme Park Summer Plus Universal Orlando News appeared first on Tomorrow Society.

Ever found yourself in a cap and gown belting out tunes during a Nashville karaoke night? We're all about unconventional celebrations, and as I nudge closer to thesis completion, we're debating just how to mark the occasion. Join us for a hearty laugh as we swap tales from aching childhood memories at Kings Island to the adult rite of passage that is greeting card selection – all while pondering the societal pressures of commemorating life's milestones.Midlife has its revelations, and we're not afraid to share ours – from the serendipitous joy of picking out the perfect humorous card to the unexpected insights gained during a bodywork session. We'll take you through an intimate discussion on the liberating shift toward self-contentment that age often brings, and the profound benefits of therapy, especially when it comes to understanding the intricate parts that make up our psyche. It's a candid chat about giving space to our internal parts, and how that can release decades of stress.And because life's tapestry is nothing if not diverse, we traverse from Lucille Ball's surprising influence on "Star Trek" to the peaceful sanctuary of a therapist's office. We muse over the calming effects of white noise, and the riveting draw of true crime stories, and leave you with a quirky cliffhanger about cicadas that's sure to provoke curiosity. So, settle in with us, Kat and Moose, for a heartfelt episode that's as unique and multifaceted as the human experience itself.Support the showVisit us on the Interwebs! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook! Support the show!

Some cool stories from Kings Island amusement park in Mason, OH