The Profitable Play Podcast

Michele Caruana
  • 5.0 (162)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED DAILY

If you own or manage an indoor play center, play cafe, indoor playground, family entertainment center, mobile soft play rental business or really any business that serves local children and families, and you want to operate with more EASE and JOY, all while making the living you dreamed of– I created the profitable play podcast just for you. Join me, your host, Michele Caruana, for small but mighty tips every single weekday that will all add up to a BIG impact on your mindset, your business, and your bottom line. Stick with me to keep the PASSION and GROW the profit in YOUR play-based business

  1. 6D AGO

    332: Thriving Through Your First Months Of Indoor Playground Ownership With Jan From Kinderland

    In this episode of The Profitable Play Podcast, I share a recorded coaching call with Jan from Kinderland Play Cafe in Hendersonville, TN that covers the exact questions so many indoor playground and play café owners face when setting up their systems and preparing their business for growth—or even a future sale. My guest’s long-term plan is to eventually sell their business, so every decision they make now is with that end goal in mind. During our conversation, we dig into: How to realistically set up and enforce cleaning procedures with staff so you don’t need to rely as much on outside cleanersWhen and how to delegate customer communication—whether that’s email or social media messages—without losing controlWhether to implement different pay grades for staff, and how that impacts team harmonyHandling tricky operational details and bottlenecks that present themselves as you go through your first weeks and months of operationHow to navigate software costs and adjustments as your customer base growsAnd finally, how to streamline the entire party booking process—from the initial reservation all the way through confirmations, reminders, and follow-ups If you’re in the trenches of creating processes, figuring out how much to delegate, or looking to build a business that’s scalable and eventually sellable, this episode is packed with actionable advice. Kinderland Website: https://www.kinderland-hendersonville.com/ Kinderland IG: https://www.instagram.com/kinderland.hendersonville OTHER RESOURCES: Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist] What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training] Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist Michele’s Instagram Michele’s Website Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel ETSY Template Shop Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com  Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com  Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy

    1h 7m

  2. AUG 6

    331: Non-Profit Success With Rosie Lynch From Wild Child Museum

    In this episode of The Profitable Play Podcast, I share a recorded coaching call with Rosie Lynch, founder of Wild Child Museum & Managerie, a non-profit indoor play space operating inside her local community center. We discuss the strategic advantages of starting in a low-overhead location — including building a loyal customer base, growing a healthy financial foundation, and securing community and business sponsors — before moving into a larger, more costly space. Topics covered include: Creating consistent revenue to support hiring paid staff over volunteer relianceIncreasing social media presence and local visibilityEvaluating future expansion opportunitiesLeveraging non-profit status to secure sponsors, grants, and community support This episode offers practical insights for play space owners interested in sustainable growth, community partnerships, and non-profit operations. Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society Connect with Wild Child Museum & Managerie: 🌐 Website: wildchildmuseum.org 📸 Instagram: @wildchildmuseum 📘 Facebook: Wild Child Museum & Managerie OTHER RESOURCES: Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist] What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training] Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist Michele’s Instagram Michele’s Website Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel ETSY Template Shop Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com  Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com  Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy

    1h 2m

  3. JUN 10

    330: "Unstaffed" Play Spaces? Use Cases, Safety Tips, and New Revenue Streams

    2 TICKETS LEFT FOR PLAY MAKER SOCIETY LIVE: https://www.michelecaruana.com/playmakerslive2025 Is your indoor playground or play café business ready for more freedom, flexibility, and revenue? In this episode, I share how a simple keypad entry system can completely transform your business operations. Whether you're hoping to reduce your reliance on staff, offer after-hours access, or turn your space into a community hub, this upgrade might be the highest ROI decision you make this year. 💡 What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why keypad entry is a smart move for both safety and scalabilityHow to offer unstaffed open play sessions and private rentalsWays to rent your space to instructors, therapists, and community groupsHow to give your cleaners, vendors, and staff secure access without keysHow keypad access can support premium membership tiers and sensory-friendly hoursReal examples of how this tool creates passive revenue while you sleep This episode is packed with actionable tips for play café owners ready to work smarter—not harder. 🎧 Tune in and learn how to turn your front door into a revenue-generating asset. 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned: Wellness Living Passport Technologies Play Date Indoor Playground Episode 263: My Interview with Heather Play Cafe Academy OTHER RESOURCES: Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist] What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training] Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist Michele’s Instagram Michele’s Website Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel ETSY Template Shop Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com  Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy

    23 min

  4. MAY 19

    329: Summer Revenue Rescue for Indoor Playground Owners (Even WITHOUT Summer Camps)

    If you’re listening in real time, you know that summer is just around the corner—and if your foot traffic or bookings are starting to dip, you’re not alone. This season can catch even the most prepared indoor playground owners off guard. But here’s the good news: even if you didn’t get a summer plan in place months ago, it’s not too late to make a real impact on your revenue. In this episode, I’m sharing creative, actionable, and low-lift ways to boost income quickly—even if you’re starting from scratch. These are strategies I used myself when we were struggling through slow summer seasons, and they helped us not only stay afloat but thrive. I’ll walk you through how to: Rent out your unused play equipment for outdoor and at-home partiesOffer balloon décor for off-site events, not just birthdaysHost preschool and kindergarten readiness camps without needing certificationsFill a big market gap by offering baby-friendly classes and seriesLaunch short-term summer memberships, especially for teachersAdd a mini retail section with seasonal essentials and sensory-friendly optionsRun themed drop-off nights with a summer twistTake your café mobile by popping up at local markets and eventsHost profitable micro events that don’t require big crowdsOpen up private rentals for families looking for low-stimulation or exclusive play options Remember, these don’t all need to be complicated or time-consuming. Many of these ideas can be launched in a day or two using the resources you already have—and just one or two can make a big difference in your bottom line this summer. If you want help launching any of these ideas fast, be sure to check the show notes for links to free resources and templates inside Play Cafe Academy. And if you’re in Play Maker Society, bring your questions to our next group call and I’ll walk you through them step-by-step. Don’t let the slower season catch you off guard. Let’s get creative, stay scrappy, and make this your most profitable summer yet. Episodes & Resources Mentioned: WellnessLiving Mobile Event Business Toolkit ($37) Episode 204: Summer Memberships Episode 99: Calculating ROI Of Renting That Booth Episode 325: Parent-Only Event Ideas Episode 249: Reuse Party Supplies And Make Extra Money Selling Busy Bags OTHER RESOURCES: Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist] What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training] Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist Michele’s Instagram Michele’s Website Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel ETSY Template Shop Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com  Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com  Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy

    46 min

  5. MAY 13

    328: Get Better Results From ChatGPT and AI By Using the Right Tools and Smarter Prompts

    Play Makers Live 2025 Registration and Information (6 Tickets Left!) In this episode of the Profitable Play Podcast, I’m diving into Part 2 of our AI mini-series, and this time it’s all about how to get better results from ChatGPT. I’m sharing the exact tips and strategies I use as an indoor playground owner to write better prompts, train ChatGPT to match my voice, and streamline my content creation and operations. I’ll also walk you through how I use other AI tools to automate tasks like scheduling, creating videos, and designing graphics. If you’ve ever felt like AI was giving you “meh” results, this episode will change the game for you. 👉 If you missed Part 1, be sure to go back and listen to last week’s episode first HERE! ETSY Template Shop OTHER RESOURCES: Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist] What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training] Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist Michele’s Instagram Michele’s Website Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel ETSY Template Shop Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com  Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com  Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy

    35 min

  6. MAY 6

    327: 8 Next-Level AI Uses and Hacks for Busy Indoor Playground Owners

    If you’ve ever joked about being the “lazy” play cafe owner—this episode is for you. (And if you’re offended by that term… take a deep breath and trust me on this one.) I know you're not actually lazy—you’re just juggling everything: your business, your family, your sanity… and trying to keep it all together. So in this episode, I’m sharing 8 of my favorite next-level AI hacks that help me save time, reduce stress, and focus on what actually matters. This isn’t your basic AI 101. These are practical, time-saving tools I use daily as a business owner—whether you’ve already started experimenting with AI or have no clue where to begin, you’ll walk away with real strategies you can use today. BLOG for this episode (if you prefer to read to follow along!) 💡 In This Episode, I Share: Why calling myself “lazy” is actually a business strategyHow I use ChatGPT to train my team and improve customer experienceTime-saving tricks to repurpose content without rewriting everythingHow I analyze feedback and emails with AI to improve my offersMy favorite automations for boosting profitability and productivityAnd so much more! 📌 Resources I Mention: 👉 Want more step-by-step AI help? My Free AI Training for Indoor Playground Owners 👉 Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society 🎧 Stay tuned for Part 2, where I’ll be sharing even more creative ways to use AI to grow your indoor playground—without adding more to your to-do list. Thank you to Aluvii for sponsoring this episode! OTHER RESOURCES: Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist] What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training] Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist Michele’s Instagram Michele’s Website Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel ETSY Template Shop Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com  Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com  Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy

    31 min

  7. APR 28

    326: Introverted or Non-Confrontational? 6 Strategies To Still Thrive as an Indoor Playground Owner

    In this episode of the Profitable Play Podcast, we’re diving into what success can look like for indoor playground owners who are introverted, non-confrontational, or just prefer to lead from behind the scenes. I’m sharing practical strategies for managing staff, setting boundaries with customers, and marketing your business—even if you don’t love being on camera or in the spotlight. You'll learn how to build a thriving business that aligns with your personality, avoids burnout, and still attracts loyal customers. Whether you're just starting out or reevaluating your role in your business, this episode will help you find a sustainable, authentic way to lead. Blog For This Episode Michele’s Instagram Episode 50: Setting Boundaries In Your Business Episode 185: User Generated Content For Your Business Free Training: Using AI In Your Indoor Playground Business Get a FREE Aluvii Demo With Our PCA Discount OTHER RESOURCES: Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist] What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training] Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist Michele’s Instagram Michele’s Website Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel ETSY Template Shop Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com  Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com  Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy

    36 min

  8. MAR 26

    325: 3 Unique Event Ideas To Get You Through Your Slow Spring Indoor Play Season

    In this episode, I'm sharing three unique yet proven event ideas to help indoor playground owners boost revenue during the tricky spring season, bridging the gap between winter excitement and summer camp busyness. From hosting a fun and profitable "Mom-Friend Speed Dating" night, to a practical "Busy Bag" crafting event, to a strategic "Summer Camp Sampler," you'll leave this episode with a specific plan of action and ready to energize your community and drive business during typically slower months. Host a Profitable Busy Bag Event (DOWNLOAD) How To Host The Best Easter Egg Hunt (VIDEO) Mother's Day Vendor Events (PODCAST) Host A Successful Character Event (VIDEO) Stuffed Animal Adoption Event Ideas (VIDEO) Play Cafe Academy & Play Maker Society Michele's Instagram LEARN MORE ABOUT ALUVII AND SCHEDULE A DEMO: https://aluvii.com/play-cafe-academy OTHER RESOURCES: Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD Getting Started YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HfYkEnvPJdo&list=PLKNxpFOU7ITc6BrH_EHl4DuHqWqdUoTZU What's Working 2025 Guide: http://bit.ly/3GwXQAS Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Socity: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD Fund Your Indoor Play Business: http://bit.ly/38KbYbz Courses & Consulting: http://bit.ly/3N7bPAI Indoor Playground Business Courses: https://bit.ly/37yCxAC Michele’s Instagram: https://bit.ly/3Ia4PTK Michele’s Website: https://www.michelecaruana.com YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3JDkSe7 FREE 14-DAY Active Campaign Trial: https://bit.ly/3rjp5bP ETSY Template Shop: https://bit.ly/40RF5D4 Recession Prep Playlist: https://www.michelecaruana.com/recessionprep Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com  Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF My POS System-Of-Choice: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com  Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy

    37 min
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5
out of 5
162 Ratings

About

If you own or manage an indoor play center, play cafe, indoor playground, family entertainment center, mobile soft play rental business or really any business that serves local children and families, and you want to operate with more EASE and JOY, all while making the living you dreamed of– I created the profitable play podcast just for you. Join me, your host, Michele Caruana, for small but mighty tips every single weekday that will all add up to a BIG impact on your mindset, your business, and your bottom line. Stick with me to keep the PASSION and GROW the profit in YOUR play-based business

Information

  • Creator
    Michele Caruana
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    342
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Profitable Play All Rights Reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Profitable Play Podcast

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