The Attractions Group Podcast

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Theme park industry news and analysis as well as interviews with Attractions Industry leaders.

  1. May 22

    Gatemaster Technology CEO and Podcast Host, Sondra Shannon

    Season 5, Episode 038 Sondra Shannon on Frankenstein Tech, the Dynamic Pricing Debate, and Gamifying the Guest Journey Are your attraction's systems working together, or are they quietly costing you millions? In this episode of The Attractions Group Podcast, hosts David Detling and Clete Reinberger sit down face-to-face at the IAAPA Global Headquarters in Orlando with Sondra Shannon, CEO of Gatemaster Technologies and host of the "LIVE with Sondra" podcast. Sondra shares her incredible journey from managing a Southern California laser tag facility at 19 years old to becoming the CEO of a premier attractions software company. Together, the trio dives deep into the operational friction points that ruin the guest experience, the real business numbers behind "Frankenstein" tech stacks, and why value-added packaging beats corporate dynamic pricing every single time. Whether you operate a local family entertainment center, a multi-acre water park, a museum, or a zoo, this episode is a masterclass in scaling your operations, using data ethically, and building long-term guest loyalty. In this episode, you’ll discover: The Integration Trap: How disconnected online and on-site ticketing systems can create massive revenue blind spots. The Truth About Dynamic Pricing: Why consumers are growing frustrated with fluctuating algorithmic pricing and how to use "value packaging" to protect your brand. AI & Forensic Data: How modern operators are using machine learning to track weather and review trends in seconds without losing the human touch. The Power of Gamification: A sneak peek into Gatemaster's upcoming G6 platform, employee onboarding achievements, and rewarding high-frequency visitors. The Reality of Going Live: Why imperfect, authentic human content connects deeper with an audience than a polished script. ⏱️ Episode Chapters 00:00 - In-Room at IAAPA Global Headquarters 03:20 - From Super-User to CEO: The Gatemaster Foundation 05:10 - Software vs. Hardware: Knowing Your Core Competency 07:40 - Tracking the Guest Buying Journey & Fixing Friction 10:05 - Ethics of AI and Leveraging Forensic Data 14:50 - Why Dynamic Pricing is Being Challenged (And What to Do Instead) 20:00 - Pricing vs. Value in the Hospitality Industry 23:15 - Behind the Scenes of the Gatemaster Technology Summit 26:50 - Hosting "LIVE with Sondra" & The Value of Unfiltered Storytelling 31:10 - Future Tech: Gamification, Loyalty Programs, and the G6 Rollout 35:00 - Wrap-Up and Summer Season Outlook   🔗 Connect With Us & Our Guest Gatemaster Technology: https://gatemaster.com/ Listen to "LIVE with Sondra": https://gatemaster.com/media/live-with-sondra/ Connect with the Attractions Group the Attractions Group Official Website: https://www.theAttractionsGroup.com Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/attractions-group/ LinkedIn: Attractions Group Professional Network: /12649603 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/attractionsgroup X: https://x.com/attractions_grp Podcast Feed: https://theattractionsgrouppodcast.podbean.com/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1bcW3Vj9DL5avDAz9yyNdm   #AttractionsIndustry #ThemeParks #AmusementParks #GuestExperience #AttractionsTech #Gatemaster #Podcast #BusinessOfFun #FEC #ThemeParkOperations

    53 min

  2. May 13

    Inside Dollywood: Eugene Naughton on Leadership, Guest Experience, and "Nightflight" Expedition 2026

    Season 5, Episode 037 Join the Attractions Group Podcast for an exclusive deep dive with Eugene Naughton, President of The Dollywood Company. In this episode, Eugene shares the "secret sauce" behind Dollywood’s world-class guest experience, their industry-leading 93% host retention rate, and the highly anticipated 2026 opening of Nightflight Expedition. Matt Miller (America’s Theme Park Technologist) joins us as a guest host, pinch-hitting for Clete to bring his unique technical perspective to our conversation with Eugene. Whether you are an attractions industry professional, a theme park enthusiast, or a business leader looking to scale company culture through "Leading with Love," this interview provides actionable insights from one of the most respected names in the business. In this episode, we cover: The philosophy behind Dollywood’s "Host First" culture. Unique perks like on-property healthcare and "GrowU" tuition programs. An exclusive construction update on the 44,000 sq. ft. Nightflight Expedition immersive coaster. The strategic expansion of Dollywood Resorts and future master planning. Subscribe for more expert interviews from the world of theme parks and attractions!   Video Timeline & Index [00:12] Welcome & Intro with Matt Miller (America’s Theme Park Technologist) [04:20] Interview Start: Eugene Naughton, President of Dollywood [06:05] The "Host First" Philosophy: Why Employee Experience = Guest Experience [09:40] Providing On-Site Healthcare and Childcare for Staff [12:41] The Impact of Free Meals and Improved Break Spaces on Retention [15:22] Dollywood’s Massive 93% Employee Retention Rate Explained [17:42] "Recruit for Loot": Using Staff as the Number One Recruiting Tool [21:00] Dollywood University & the GrowU Tuition Program [25:30] Emerging Leaders: Developing the Next Generation of Executives [29:03] Herschend’s Recent Acquisitions and Maintaining Culture at Scale [32:44] The Authentic Storytelling of the Smoky Mountains [37:39] Future Expansion: Master Planning for 5 Total Resorts [43:59] Attention to Detail: Why You Won’t See Burnt-Out Lightbulbs [46:42] New Run Series & "Neon Nights" at Splash Country [49:41] Faith and the Golden Rule: The Role of the On-Property Chaplain [01:00:26] Post-Interview Recap and Final Thoughts   - "Dollywood President Eugene Naughton interview" - "Theme park leadership and guest experience strategy" - "Nightflight Expedition Dollywood 2026 construction update" - "How to improve employee retention in the hospitality industry" - "Herschend Family Entertainment company culture" - "Immersive storytelling and dark ride coaster technology" - "Dollywood Resort master plan and expansion" - Pinch-hitting for Clete: Expert industry insight from a fresh perspective. - Theme Park Technologist: Bridging the gap between attraction tech and executive leadership. - Guest Co-Host: Matt Miller joins David to dive into the future of the Smoky Mountains.   The Attractions Group Website: www.theAttractionsGroup.com LinkedIn: Attractions Group Professional Network: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12649603/ the Attractions Group on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/attractions-group Facebook: @TheAttractionsGroup X: https://x.com/attractions_grp Podcast Feed: https://theattractionsgrouppodcast.podbean.com/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5UfVPf59vHQbZL36UNvM5b?si=e72fea4025ae4d4c   #Dollywood #ThemeParkLeadership #NightflightExpedition #AttractionsIndustry #EugeneNaughton #GuestExperience #ThemeParkNews #PigeonForge #OfficialCinnamonBreadTaster #HerschendFamilyEntertainment #Podcast #AmusementPark #BusinessCulture #MattMiller #GuestHost #ThemeParkTech #PinchHitter #CoHost #IndustryInsights #InnovativeStudios

    1h 6m

  3. May 8

    S5, E036 President & CEO of Holiday World, Matt Eckert talks about 2026!

    This episode of "The Attractions Group Podcast" features an interview with Matt Eckert, the President and CEO of Holiday World & Splashin' Safari, who stops by to talk about 2026. Hosts, David and Clete, begin by discussing recent roller coaster rankings from USA Today, sharing their own strong (and sometimes humorous) opinions on the list. The conversation then shifts to Holiday World's recent accolades, including its high rankings for water coasters and guest service. Matt Eckert shares insights into the park's unique culture—focusing on the "four prongs" of guest interaction—and discusses upcoming events like "Rubber Duck Days" and a major announcement planned for July 1, 2026.   Video Timestamps [00:34] – Introduction and banter between hosts David and Clete. [04:43] – Discussion of the USA Today Top 10 Roller Coaster rankings. [14:14] – The hosts' personal "snubs" and favorite coasters not on the list. [21:44] – Matt Eckert joins the show. [23:22] – Holiday World's performance in the USA Today rankings (Water Coasters and Water Park). [26:50] – The philosophy behind custom-designed water attractions and using the park's topography. [30:34] – Update on Santa’s Cottages and the park's expansion into lodging. [33:07] – Managing the longest operating season in the park's history and staffing challenges. [41:48] – In-depth look at Holiday World’s hospitality training and staff culture. [44:57] – The "Look at me, Smile at me, Talk to me, Thank me" guest service philosophy. [53:14] – How Holiday World differentiates itself through value (free parking, soft drinks, and sunscreen). [01:00:33] – Teasing a major announcement for 2027, coming on July 1. [01:02:18] – Details on "Rubber Duck Days" and the six-story tall rubber duck visiting the park.   The gates open this Saturday. The coasters will be roaring, as the 2026 Summer Season at Holiday World & Splashin' Safari is officially here! In this exclusive season-opener episode of the Attractions Group Podcast, we are joined by park President and CEO Matt Eckert to pull back the curtain on what makes this "little park in a cornfield" a consistent powerhouse in the global attractions industry. Why Holiday World is Dominating the 2026 Rankings Matt discusses the park's recent sweep of the USA Today 10Best Awards, where they ranked in nearly every category they were nominated for—including Wildebeest reclaiming its throne as the #1 water park attraction and Splashin' Safari being named the #2 water park in the entire nation. The Philosophy of Value: More Than Just Rides In an era of rising costs, Matt explains why Holiday World doubles down on its legendary "Free" model. From free unlimited soft drinks and Gatorade to free parking and free sunscreen, we explore the psychology of guest service and how removing "financial friction" allows families to focus on what matters most: making memories. What’s New for 2026? This year marks the longest operating calendar in the park's 80-year history! We discuss the expansion of Friday Night Live, the massive 500-drone Summer Sky Spectacle (now featuring over 50 pyrotechnic elements), and the debut of Rubber Duck Days, featuring a staggering six-story tall rubber duck and her son, Timmy, taking over the water park. Looking Toward the Future Beyond the 2026 season, Matt drops a massive "breadcrumb" for coaster enthusiasts. If you want the scoop on the July 1st announcement for the 2027 season, speculation abounds!    Holiday World 2026, Matt Eckert Interview, Splashin' Safari, Best Water Park in USA, Santa Claus Indiana Attractions, Cheetah Chase Water Coaster, Mammoth Water Coaster, Wildebeest Airtime, Theme Park Marketing, Family Vacation Ideas Midwest, Free Parking Theme Parks, Theme Park Podcast, Attractions Group, 2027 Roller Coaster Rumors, Drone Show 2026, Holiday World Early Entry, Santa's Cottages.   Are you Team #Wildebeest or Team #CheetahChase? Tell us in the comments! Also, what do you think the big July 1st announcement is for the 2027 season? 🎢✨   The Attractions Group Website: www.theAttractionsGroup.com LinkedIn: Attractions Group Professional Network: / 12649603 the Attractions Group on LinkedIn: / attractions-group Facebook: @TheAttractionsGroup X: https://x.com/attractions_grp Podcast Feed: https://theattractionsgrouppodcast.po... Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5UfVPf5...   #HolidayWorld #SplashinSafari #ThemePark #CoasterEnthusiast #TravelIndiana #Summer2026 #WaterCoaster #Podcast #AttractionsGroup #FamilyTravel

    1h 6m

  4. Apr 29

    s5, e035- A Z Coaster Challenge Play Along Podcast Attractions Group Podcast

    If this were baseball, David would be on the 10-day injured list—meanwhile, Clete is carrying the load like a true "big leaguer!" 🎢⚾️   With David sidelined for this episode, Clete takes the mound solo for a high-stakes, fast-paced "A-Z Coaster Challenge." The rules are simple but the pressure is on: name two roller coasters for every letter of the alphabet, entirely from memory. No internet, no lifelines, just pure coaster knowledge (and a little bit of "on-the-spot" panic).   From obscure defunct rides in Indiana to world-class steel in Europe, join Clete as he battles through the tricky letters like Q, U, and Y.   Play along with us! Can you beat Clete's list? How many coasters can you name for the letter 'Q' without searching? Drop your answers in the comments below!   If you enjoyed this "Play-Along Podcast" format, let us know and we might make it a recurring series.   Podcast Timeline: [00:00:00] – Welcome to the solo show: Clete steps up to the plate. [00:00:55] – The Challenge: Explaining the A-Z Coaster rules. [00:01:39] – Starting strong with A, B, and C. [00:04:50] – The "H" Hurdle: A brief struggle and a search for Helix. [00:09:12] – "M" is for Millennium (and Mandoria). [00:10:20] – The "O" Obstacle: Searching for an ocean-themed save. [00:12:55] – The Impossible "Q": Clete hits a wall. [00:18:05] – Clearing the X's: Excalibur and X-Flight. [00:21:10] – The Final Countdown: Trying to finish the alphabet before time runs out. [00:23:30] – The Cheat Sheet Reveal: Checking the answers and realizing the biggest misses. [00:27:30] – Wrap up and call for feedback on the new series.   Roller Coasters, Theme Park Podcast, A-Z Challenge, Roller Coaster Trivia, Attractions Group Podcast, Clete, Coaster Credits, Theme Park Games, Kings Island, Cedar Point, Holiday World, Disney World, Amusement Parks, Coaster Enthusiast.   #AttractionsGroup #RollerCoasters #ThemeParks #CoasterChallenge #Podcast #AmusementParks #CoasterEnthusiast #AZChallenge #PlayAlong

    28 min

  5. Apr 15

    Designing Phantom Theater! 🎭 Drew Edward Hunter of Sally Dark Rides | the Attractions Group Podcast

    How do you resurrect a legend? Just three days before its world premiere, we sit down with Drew Edward Hunter, Creative Lead for Sally Dark Rides, to discuss the design, development, and debut of Kings Island’s "Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare." "To the Faithful...": Relive the magic of the original 1992 classic! We dive deep into the return of the Maestro and how this "new" attraction honors the legacy of the original Phantom Theater. Get the inside scoop on what to expect during your first ride this week. "To Professionals of the Industry":  Drew Edward Hunter shares master-class insights into the "dark ride" creative process. We discuss the technical challenges of reimagining IP, the logistics of integrating modern animatronics into existing infrastructure, and the art of storytelling within the regional theme park model. Whether you are in design, operations, or marketing, this is a deep dive into successful attraction revival.   In this episode: ✅ The evolution of Sally Dark Rides’ creative philosophy. ✅ Bridging the gap between 90s nostalgia and modern guest expectations. ✅ Technical breakdown: Character design, lighting, and "The Nightmare" aesthetic. ✅ Industry trends: Why "Classic" IP is the future of regional parks.   ⏳ EPISODE CHAPTERS [00:00] – Introduction: David Detling & Clete Reinberger. [04:15] – The State of the Industry: Current trends in regional theme parks. [10:30] – Meet Drew Edward Hunter: A career in Creative Lead & Design. [18:45] – The Brief: Why Kings Island decided to bring back Phantom Theater. [27:10] – Concept Art to Reality: The Sally Dark Rides workflow. [36:20] – Narrative Structure: Crafting the "Opening Nightmare" storyline. [44:05] – Technical Specs: Animatronics, Audio, and Environmental Effects. [55:15] – Managing Fan Expectations: Respecting the 1992 original. [01:03:30] – Advice for Aspiring Themed Entertainment Designers.   🔗 CONNECT WITH THE SHOW & GUESTS The Attractions Group Website: www.theAttractionsGroup.com LinkedIn: Attractions Group Professional Network: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12649603/ the Attractions Group on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/attractions-group Facebook: @TheAttractionsGroup X: https://x.com/attractions_grp Podcast Feed: https://theattractionsgrouppodcast.podbean.com/  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5UfVPf59vHQbZL36UNvM5b?si=e72fea4025ae4d4c   Sally Dark Rides Website: www.sallydarkrides.com Twitter/X: @SallyDarkRides LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sallydarkrides   Primary Keywords: Kings Island, Phantom Theater Opening Nightmare, Sally Dark Rides, Drew Edward Hunter, Themed Entertainment Design, Dark Ride Technology, Theme Park Industry, Attraction Design, Kings Island History, Animatronics. Secondary Keywords: IAAPA, Theme Park Podcast, Creative Lead, Experience Design, Regional Parks, The Maestro, Haunted Attractions, Amusement Park Business.   #KingsIsland #SallyDarkRides #ThemedEntertainment #DarkRide #PhantomTheater #ThemeParkIndustry #ExperienceDesign #AmusementPark #AttractionsGroup #Imagineering #IAAPA #KingsIslandFans

    1h 9m

  6. Apr 10

    s5, e033- Matt Miller fills In. Here comes Enchanted Parks. Challenge: Know your IAAPA Acronyms

    With Clete away in Chicago, David is in the studio and is joined by special Guest Host: Matt Miller of Innovated Studios. Known across the industry as "America's Theme Park Technologist," Matt joins David to peel back the curtain on how technology is reshaping the guest experience. In This Episode: The Origins of a Technologist: We dive into Matt’s unique career path and how he earned the title of America's Theme Park Technologist. The Big Sale: Now that the deal is officially closed, David and Matt break down the acquisition of six Six Flags properties by Enchanted Parks. The "Matt Miller" Blueprint: We ask the big question: If Matt were in charge of these six newly acquired parks, what would be his first move? New Segment Alert! David surprises Matt with a brand-new challenge. The attractions industry is famous for its "alphabet soup," and we’re putting Matt to the test in our inaugural segment: "Know Your IAAPA Acronyms." "Dumb Games = Dumb Prizes": Guests are at it again.   Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction: David in the Studio 2:15 - America's Theme Park Technologist: Defining the Role 15:40 - The Enchanted Parks & Six Flags Deal 28:10 - If Matt Miller Ran the Parks... 40:25 - NEW SEGMENT: Know Your IAAPA Acronyms 55:00 - Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Matt   Don’t forget to Like, Subscribe, and hit the Bell for weekly attractions industry news!   Matt Miller: Website: https://www.themeparkmiller.com/ LinkedIn:  www.linkedin./ matthew-miller-theme-parks   Innovated Studios: https://innovatedstudios.com/ the Attractions Group: Website: https://theattractionsgroup.com Facebook: / theattractionsgroup Instagram: @theattractionsgroup X (Twitter): https://x.com/attractions_grp LinkedIn: / attractions-group Attractions Network: /12649603   #ThemeParks #AttractionsIndustry #IAAPA #SixFlags #EnchantedParks #ThemeParkTechnology #Podcast #TheAttractionsGroup #InnovatedStudios   Meta Description: Join David Detling and Matt Miller of Innovated Studios as they discuss the Enchanted Parks acquisition of Six Flags properties, themed entertainment technology, and the new "Know Your IAAPA Acronyms" challenge.

    51 min

  7. Apr 6

    S5, E032 | Elizabeth Ringas: The Business of Thrills & The American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE)

    ACE's Elizabeth Ringas Returns! | Roller Coasters, Coaster Con 2026, & Industry Insights Join Clete Reinberger and David Detling on the Attractions Group Podcast as they welcome back a very special guest: Elizabeth Ringas, President of American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE)! In this deep-dive episode, we explore the current state of the coaster community, the massive lineup for Coaster Con 2026, and the bittersweet transition as Elizabeth enters the final months of her impactful presidency. From the latest news on Project Purple at Six Flags Great Adventure to a heated debate on what truly constitutes a roller coaster (looking at you, Nightflight Expedition), this episode is packed with industry news, nostalgia, and expert insights. Whether you're a "track-head" or just love a good theme park story, this is an episode you can't miss!   Episode Highlights & Keywords ACE Presidency & Transition: Elizabeth reflects on four years of leading the world’s largest coaster club. Coaster Con 2026: Full breakdown of the upcoming convention featuring Six Flags New England, Great Escape, and Lake Compounce. Landmark Awards: Celebrating the history of Flying Turns (Knoebels), Bobsleds (Seabreeze), and the centennial of the Jack Rabbit. International Coaster Travel: Details on the "Rome with ACE" trip and European coaster culture. Industry News: Updates on SeaWorld/United Parks ADA lawsuits, Disney Adventure World (Paris), and the closure of Wild Waves.   Chapter Times & Timestamps [00:00] – Welcome & Industry News: Project Purple, Euromir, and World of Frozen. [03:35] – SeaWorld Lawsuit: Discussion on wheeled walkers and ADA compliance. [06:18] – Dumb Things Guests Do: The "Home Edition" & crazy refund requests. [12:45] – Interview Starts: Welcoming Elizabeth Ringas back to the show. [14:20] – ACE Merchandise: The "Renaissance" of ACE apparel and generational branding. [17:10] – Membership Growth: How ACE has expanded to 7,000+ members worldwide. [19:10] – The Election Process: How the next ACE President will be chosen. [22:15] – Coaster Con 2026: A full week of coasters in New England. [26:15] – Spring Con & Texas: Visiting Six Flags Over Texas and the National Roller Coaster Museum. [28:40] – Preservation Con: A final send-off for Wild Waves. [30:30] – Rome with ACE: Planning international trips for 120+ enthusiasts. [35:35] – ACE Landmarks: Recognizing Flying Turns and the world's oldest steel coasters. [41:40] – Centennial Awards: Celebrating 100 years of the Jack Rabbit. [43:25] – The Backyard Coaster: Elizabeth’s pick for a personal coaster (The Beast!). [51:10] – The 4,100 Mile Road Trip: Elizabeth’s epic solo coaster journey. [58:00] – The Great Debate: Is Nightflight Expedition (Dollywood) a coaster? [01:03:40] – World Roller Coaster Appreciation Month: June festivities. Connect With Our Guest & Hosts Elizabeth Ringas & American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) Website: https://www.ridewithace.com/home Merchandise: ACE Web Store World Roller Coaster Month: WorldRollerCoasterMonth.org Facebook: @AmericanCoasterEnthusiasts Instagram: @aceonlineorg Twitter/X: @aceonlineorg   the Attractions Group Website: https://theattractionsgroup.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/  X (Twitter): https://x.com/attractions_grp   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/attractions-group   Attractions Network: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12649603/  Facebook: @TheAttractionsGroup   #RollerCoasters #ThemeParks #ACE #CoasterEnthusiasts #CoasterCon2026 #ElizabethRingas #TheBeast #SixFlags #AmusementParks #CoasterLandmarks #Podcast #AttractionsGroup #ThemeParkNews #TheAttractionsGroupPodcast   Keywords: Roller Coasters, Theme Parks, American Coaster Enthusiasts, Coaster Con 2026, Amusement Park History, Elizabeth Ringas, Themed Entertainment, Park Operations, Roller Coaster Landmarks, ACE.

    1h 5m

  8. Mar 26

    S5, E031- Things Park Operators Wish Guests Would Stop Doing! | The Attractions Group Podcast

    Welcome to Opening Day Eve! 🎢 This week on The Attractions Group Podcast, hosts Clete Reinberger and David Detling are pulling back the curtain on the "unofficial" side of the theme park industry. After putting out a call to industry professionals on LinkedIn and social media, the responses flooded in—covering the weird, the odd, the funny, and the flat-out gross things that park guests do. From the "Blue Puke" cleanup at Kings Island to the shocking frequency of finding prosthetic limbs in splashdown pools, Clete and David dive into the chaotic human element of park operations. We’re calling out the behaviors that drive staff crazy and sharing the "insider" stories that never make the official brochure. In this episode, we also discuss: Major Milestone: The Attractions Group is officially a 2026 IAAPA Sponsor for the Kings Island meetup! Industry News: A look at John Riley’s leadership at Six Flags and Wild Adventures’ "Paradise River" nomination for Best Lazy River. New Coaster Alert: The debut of "100% Wolf" and why Gerstlauer airtime coasters belong in every park. The "Truth Bomb": Why parents need to put the phones down and interact with their kids. 🕒 EPISODE CHAPTERS: 00:00 – Intro: Reds Fans & Opening Day Eve 01:05 – Clete’s "Worst Moment": Kicking Joey Votto off stage? 05:20 – Industry News: John Riley & Six Flags Update 06:26 – Wild Adventures: Is "Paradise River" the world’s best lazy river? 10:00 – BIG NEWS: The Attractions Group is a 2026 IAAPA Sponsor! 14:50 – Changing diapers on restaurant tables?! 16:20 – Restroom Horror Stories: Why the target is so big 19:15 – Spreading Cremains at Disney: The Landfill Truth 24:25 – Don’t Lick the Rails: The mystery of adult guest behavior 26:30 – The "Blue Puke" at Kings Island: Delirium vs. Blue Ice Cream 30:55 – Line Jumping: The "Catching up to my party" excuse 34:25 – Lost & Found: Finding prosthetic legs and 8-inch knives 38:30 – Hotel Horrors: Ice buckets and "Crime Scene" nosebleeds 48:05 – "Can you turn off the rain?" Guest Services logic 55:10 – Cell Phones on Rides: Safety, POV "Clowns," and Business Calls 59:00 – A Message to Parents: Enjoy the time with your kids 01:02:30 – New Coaster News: 100% Wolf at Plopsaland 🔗 CONNECT WITH US: Submit your stories: Have a ridiculous reason a guest demanded a refund? Email us ddetling@theAttractionsGroup.com and we’ll share it anonymously in Part 2! Linktree: https://linktr.ee/theAttractionsGroup   🏷️ PODBEAN TAGS: Theme Park Podcast, Attractions Industry, The Attractions Group, Clete Reinberger, David Detling, Kings Island, Disney World Secrets, Roller Coaster News, Park Operations, Ride Operator Stories, Amusement Park Humor, IAAPA 2026, Guest Experience, Six Flags Merger, Wild Adventures, Theme Park Management, Coaster Enthusiast, Travel Tips.   #️⃣ HASHTAGS: #ThemeParks #AttractionsIndustry #TheAttractionsGroup #Podcast #RollerCoasters #KingsIsland #DisneyWorld #ParkOps #GuestExperience #AmusementParks #IAAPA #ThemeParkStories

    1h 5m
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About

Theme park industry news and analysis as well as interviews with Attractions Industry leaders.

Information

  • Creator
    attractionsgrouppodcast
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2022 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Attractions Group Podcast

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