The Profitable Play Podcast

Michele Caruana
  • 5.0 (163)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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. 20H AGO

    341: Earn Respect From Your Employees as A Leader With These 10 Important Habits

    If you’re already open, you know this — and if you’re getting ready to open, you’re about to find out: managing a team is one of the hardest, most complex, and most draining parts of running an indoor playground or play café. In this episode, I’m sharing 10 leadership habits that have helped me earn the respect and trust of my team — not because they had to follow me, but because they wanted to. These are lessons I’ve learned the hard way over the years, adapted specifically for our unique industry where most employees are part-time, often young, and juggling a lot outside of work. I’ll walk you through how I: Model the behavior I expectCommunicate clearly and address issues earlyListen to my team and act on their feedbackTake ownership publicly and coach privatelyEmpower instead of micromanageRecognize wins that build moraleStay calm when chaos hitsStay fair and consistentInvest in my team’s growth, even if they won’t stay foreverLead with humility and openness Because leadership in this industry isn’t about barking orders — it’s about setting the tone, building trust, and creating a culture that runs smoothly even when you’re not in the room. If you’re ready to create that kind of team — one that respects you, supports each other, and helps your business grow — this episode is for you. BLOG for this Episode YOUTUBE VIDEO for this Episode PROFITABLE PLAY 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 Active Campaign Free Trial: https://www.activecampaign.com/?_r=D6IYK3HG

    46 min

  2. 6D AGO

    340: Checking in With Sunshine Play Cafe Owner Sarah Kobin 1 Year Later On What's Worked and What Hasn't After 18 Months In Business

    In this episode, I’m catching up with play café owner Sarah Kobin, who I first interviewed about a year and a half ago when she was still in the early opening phase of her business. Now that she’s been open for 18 months, Sarah shares what’s changed — from which revenue streams performed best (and which didn’t) to how her team, systems, and daily operations have evolved. We talk about what’s surprised her most since opening, what she’d do differently if she could start over, and how her role as the owner has shifted as the business has grown. If you’re curious what the first full year of running an indoor playground really looks like — the wins, the lessons, and everything in between — you’re going to love this follow-up conversation. Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving Sarah's Website Sunshine Play Cafe Facebook Sunshine Play Cafe Instagram Meet Sarah PROFITABLE PLAY 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 Active Campaign Free Trial: https://www.activecampaign.com/?_r=D6IYK3HG

    53 min

  3. OCT 28

    339: The Hidden Risks of Joining a Play Café Franchise

    In this episode, I’m breaking down the truth about play café and indoor playground franchising — and why this model has failed to deliver lasting success for most owners, outside of what you may see on social media. I’ve worked with countless franchisees who believed joining an established concept would simplify their startup journey, only to discover overwhelming fees, lack of flexibility, and corporate systems that didn’t fit their local markets.  In this episode, I share real examples of owners who struggled under these agreements and explain the key red flags to watch for if you’re researching a franchise opportunity (and we get VERY specific!). You’ll learn: • Why big national brands like The Little Gym or Goldfish Swim School can make franchising work — and why smaller ones rarely can. • The financial math behind royalties, marketing fees, and hidden costs. • Common build-out and permitting pitfalls new franchisees face. • The importance of local flexibility in pricing, programs, and menu offerings. • How to read the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and spot deal-breaking clauses. • Smarter alternatives to franchising for aspiring owners who still want systems and support. If you’ve been tempted by the promise of “done-for-you” business ownership, this episode will help you make a truly informed decision before signing anything. Blog for this episode Old Pros and Cons of Franchising Article Mentioned What's Working Guide for 2025-2026 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 Active Campaign Free Trial: https://www.activecampaign.com/?_r=D6IYK3HG

    41 min

  4. OCT 20

    338: Whether You Sell or Liquidate, Every Play Cafe Needs an Exit Plan (Here's The Why and HOW)

    At some point, almost every play cafe owner will exit their business — whether it’s by selling, transitioning to a new owner, or closing and moving on to the next chapter. It’s a natural part of the business lifecycle, but it’s something most of us don’t think about until we have to. In this episode of The Profitable Play Podcast, I’m breaking down what it really means to sell your indoor playground or play cafe business versus liquidating it — and how to know which option makes the most sense for you. If you’ve ever wondered what your exit strategy could look like — whether that’s years down the road or something you’re actively considering now — this episode will help you start preparing your business to be both sellable and sustainable. Watch this episode on YouTube instead Read This Info On The Blog Here’s what I’ll cover inside: Why some owners choose to sell versus liquidateWhat a buyer is actually purchasing when they buy your businessWhat liquidation really looks like — and when it might be the right moveHow to prepare financially, legally, and emotionally for either scenarioWhy building a “sellable” business now makes it far more scalable long-term I’ll also walk you through practical steps to get your finances, systems, and lease ready — so you can protect your investment, reduce your stress, and keep every possible door open for your future. Whether your business is thriving or you’re simply feeling the weight of ownership right now, this conversation will give you the clarity, confidence, and next steps you need to move forward intentionally and on your own terms. Resources Mentioned: Ep 68: Why Most Indoor Playgrounds Don't Sell, OR Sell For A Loss Video: Exit Strategies For Play Cafe Owners Video: My Tips For Selling Or Closing Your Business Video: Breaking Your Commercial Lease 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 Active Campaign Free Trial: https://www.activecampaign.com/?_r=D6IYK3HG

    37 min

  5. OCT 14

    337: 10 Last-Minute, Low-Cost Halloween Ideas for Indoor Playgrounds and Play Cafés

    If Halloween snuck up on you this year—don’t stress. In this episode, I share 10 quick, low-cost, and high-impact ways to boost October profits and make your indoor playground or play café feel festive without draining your time or budget. These ideas will help you attract families, boost engagement, and create memorable experiences—whether you have a day or a week to prepare. BLOG for this episode: https://www.michelecaruana.com/blog/halloween-ideas In This Episode, You’ll Learn How To: Run a simple costume photo contest to increase social media reach (learn more in episode 127 here!)Create baby- and toddler-friendly Halloween activities for families too young to trick-or-treatOffer themed drink or café specials that feel fun and seasonalTurn leftover party favors into a creative indoor trick-or-treat setupAdd low-cost décor and staff costumes to transform your space overnightHost quick themed activities like story-time or dance partiesIntroduce small upsells like crafts or glow play for extra revenueUse Halloween to boost memberships or party bookings before year-end OTHER RESOURCES: Take a Vacation As An Owner (FREE Download) 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 Active Campaign Free Trial: https://www.activecampaign.com/?_r=D6IYK3HG

    24 min

  6. OCT 1

    336: Worried About Protecting Your Play Cafe Business Legally? I Ask MY Lawyer MJ Morley Your Legal Questions

    Prefer to read? This episode's takeaways are summarized here! Prefer to watch? This interview's also on YouTube here ETSY Template Shop Work with MJ Morley Law: https://www.mjmorleylaw.com/ Thinking about opening a play café or indoor playground business? Or maybe you already own one and want to be sure you’re legally protected? Understanding trademark protection and cease and desist letters is essential for both new and current owners. In this episode, I sit down with my lawyer to get clear, practical answers to the most common legal questions play café and indoor playground owners face, including: ...How to avoid infringing on someone else’s trademark before you launch ...What a cease and desist actually is (and how it differs from a lawsuit) ...The right steps to take if you ever receive one ...Whether or not you should share cease and desist letters publicly ...What types of names, logos, and phrases are trademark-able ...If and when you should file your own trademarks to protect your business ...The potential consequences of sending meritless or false cease and desist letters Whether you’re still in the business planning phase or already operating your play café and want to protect yourself legally if you ever receive a cease and desist, this conversation will give you the knowledge you need to safeguard your brand, avoid costly mistakes, and move forward with confidence. 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 Active Campaign Free Trial: https://www.activecampaign.com/?_r=D6IYK3HG

    29 min

  7. SEP 23

    335: Pre-Opening Secrets for Play Café Success And A Look Inside The Business Opening Process With Amy Bowman

    In this episode of The Profitable Play Podcast, I sit down with Amy Bowman, founder of the soon-to-launch live music–themed play space, The Jamboree Club in Pennsylvania. Amy is right in the middle of business planning and finalizing her location, so we dive deep into the most important steps every indoor playground or play café owner should take before opening their doors. Here’s what we cover in this episode: Pitching your business plan to investors and what they’ll expectSecuring sponsorships from local businessesDefining your role as an owner when you’re also a busy parentWhat to handle before signing your lease versus afterCreating the perfect pre-launch marketing runway and generating pre-opening sales and bookingsThe biggest mistakes new owners make during this phase—mistakes I’ve made too If you’re anywhere in the business planning stage, this episode is packed with insights to help you avoid common missteps and set yourself up for success. Follow Amy’s business on IG: instagram.com/thejamboreeclub/ Website: https://www.thejamboreeclub.com/ 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 Active Campaign Free Trial: https://www.activecampaign.com/?_r=D6IYK3HG

    57 min

  8. SEP 15

    334: 10 Sales Automation Strategies for Indoor Playgrounds — Get Time Back & Grow Revenue

    As indoor playground owners, we didn’t open our spaces to spend nights chasing late payments or answering 10pm DMs. We opened to build community and have time with our families. That balance is possible—with automation. In this episode, I’m sharing 10 sales automations you can set up THIS week to recover lost bookings, increase revenue, and free up your time, including: Abandoned cart emails & textsEvergreen social media adsExit pop-ups & nurture sequencesChatbots for off-hoursParty follow-ups, win-back campaigns & renewal remindersUpsells & review requestsMUCH more! These automations plug the leaks in your funnel so you stop losing sales—and stop choosing between being present at work or at home. 📚 BLOG For This Episode 🔗 Episodes Mentioned Episode 1: How To Incentivize People To Opt-InEpisode 2: Generate 89% MORE Revenue With An Automated Welcome SequenceEpisode 44: Upselling—How To Increase Average Transaction ValueEpisode 195: Abandoned Cart Sequences Active Campaign Free Trial 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 Active Campaign Free Trial: https://www.activecampaign.com/?_r=D6IYK3HG

    43 min
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5
out of 5
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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
    351
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Profitable Play All Rights Reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Profitable Play Podcast

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