The Attractions Group Podcast

Behind the Scare #5- Rich Hill, COO & Drew Hunter. Sally Dark Rides

Prepare for a terrifyingly good time! The Attractions Group Podcast "Behind the Scare" series is back with a spine-chilling new episode... #5.
Hosts David Detling and Clete Reinberger sit down with the masters of fright and fun, Chief Creative Officer, Rich Hill and Drew Hunter from Sally Dark Rides. Get ready to go behind the scenes of some of the most iconic dark rides and animatronics in the world!
Rich and Drew pull back the curtain on the creative process, sharing their insights on what it takes to design, build, and bring to life the immersive and often spooky attractions that thrill park-goers everywhere. Whether you're a theme park fanatic, a haunt enthusiast, or just curious about the business of fun, this is a conversation you won't want to miss!
Find out more about Sally Dark Rides and their incredible work:
Website: https://www.sallydarkrides.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SallyDarkRides/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sallydarkrides/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/sallydarkrides
 
#BehindTheScare #AttractionsGroupPodcast #SallyDarkRides #DarkRides #HauntedAttractions #Halloween #ThemeParks #AmusementParks #Animatronics #AttractionsIndustry #RichHill #DrewHunter #DavidDetling #CleteReinberger #Podcast

Season 5, Episode 006- President of American Coaster Enthusiasts | Attractions Group Podcast

Tune in to a fascinating conversation on the Attractions Group Podcast with special guest Elizabeth Ringas, President of American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE)!
Hosts David Detling and Clete Reinberger dive deep into the world of theme parks, addressing the recent news of two historic attractions closing: the beloved Leap the Dips at Lakemont Park and the iconic Log Flume at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. These closures lead to a pivotal discussion: Are log flumes a dying breed? And what can the industry do to ensure these classic rides not only survive but thrive?
Elizabeth provides an expert perspective on the importance of preserving these historical treasures, the challenges facing parks today, and the innovative ways they can bring new life to older attractions.
Also, hosts David Detling and Clete Reinberger delve into the recent, somber news of beloved rides closing down. The conversation covers the retirement of the iconic Leap the Dips at Lakemont Park and the closure of the Log Flume at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay. These events spark a larger discussion about the fate of classic attractions.
#ThemeParks #RollerCoasters #AmusementParks #Attractions #Podcast #AttractionsGroupPodcast #LeapTheDips #LakemontPark #BuschGardensTampaBay #LogFlume #CoasterEnthusiasts #ACE #ThemeParkHistory #RidePreservation #AmusementIndustry #WaterRides #ThrillRides #ElizabethRingas #DavidDetling #CleteReinberger

Behind the Scare, Episode #3- Cassie Tucker, Discover Universal Podcast Co-Host

Prepare for a terrifyingly good time!
In Episode 3 of the Attractions Group Podcast, "Behind the Scare," we're diving headfirst into the world of Universal Studios' Halloween Horror Nights.
We're thrilled to be joined by a true expert, Cassie Tucker from the Discover Universal Podcast! She'll be sharing incredible, behind-the-scenes insights into what it takes to create the world's premier Halloween event.
Join us as we discuss the incredible detail, storytelling, and artistry that goes into making Halloween Horror Nights a spine-chilling success year after year. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a curious first-timer, this episode is a can't-miss for anyone who loves theme parks, horror, and a good scare.
#HalloweenHorrorNights #HHN #UniversalStudios #BehindTheScare #AttractionsGroupPodcast #DiscoverUniversalPodcast #ThemeParks #Horror #Podcast #UniversalOrlando #UniversalStudiosHollywood #Halloween

Gourd Behind the Scenes- #1 Lauren Crosby, Holiday World

Join Attractions Group Podcast hosts Clete and David for a special episode of "Behind the Gourd," the sub-series of "Behind the Scare" that focuses on family-friendly fall festivities.
In this episode, they sit down with Lauren Crosby, Fourth-Generation Owner and Director of Entertainment and Events at Holiday World, to get an exclusive look at the park's Happy Halloween Weekends. Lauren shares all the details on what's new for this year's event, including the exciting dinosaur theme, the 12-acre Dino Corn Maze Adventure, and the "Dinos Soar in the Sky" drone show.
They'll also discuss returning fan favorites like the Trick-or-Treat Trail and Carnival Chaos walkthrough attraction. Whether you're a theme park professional, a haunt enthusiast, or just looking for a fun, not-so-scary Halloween event for the whole family, this episode is a must-listen! Don't forget to like and subscribe for more industry insights and behind-the-scenes conversations!
What's in this episode:
A chat with Holiday World's Lauren Crosby
The scoop on the new dinosaur theme for Happy Halloween Weekends
Details on the Dino Corn Maze Adventure and "Dinos Soar in the Sky" drone show
Behind-the-scenes look at running a family friendly Halloween event
The difference between "Behind the Gourd" and "Behind the Scare"
 
Special Thanks to our Guest:
Lauren Crosby and Holiday World: www.HolidayWorld.com
 
#AttractionsGroupPodcast #BehindTheGourd #Halloween #HolidayWorld #ThemePark #HappyHalloweenWeekends #FamilyFun #Podcast #HauntSeason #HalloweenEvents #AmusementPark #FamilyFriendly

BEHIND THE SCARE (an Attractions Group Podcast): Don Helbig, Theme Parks by Don

"Behind the Scare": A Halloween Series by Attractions Group Podcast
 
🎃 Welcome to Behind the Scare, the ultimate Halloween series from the Attractions Group Podcast! This October, we’re pulling back the curtain on the haunted attraction industry to bring you exclusive stories and spine-chilling insights from the people who live and breathe Halloween.
In our very first episode, we sit down with Don Helbig, a true legend in the world of theme parks and the creative mind behind the popular blog, Theme Parks by Don. With decades of experience in the attractions industry, Don shares his incredible behind-the-scenes stories about designing scares, creating immersive worlds, and what it takes to bring a haunted experience to life.
Get ready for an unmissable conversation that delves deep into the business of fear and the art of the haunt. Whether you're a Halloween enthusiast, a budding haunt designer, or just love a good ghost story, this series is for you.
Hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications so you don't miss a single episode of Behind the Scare!
 
Haunted attraction industry, Behind the scenes of Halloween, Theme park Halloween events, The business of fear, Designing scares, Immersive experiences, Haunt industry insights
#BehindTheScare #AttractionsGroupPodcast #HalloweenSeries #HauntedAttraction #ThemePark #DonHelbig #ThemeParksByDon #Halloween #HauntDesign #HauntedHouse #ScareZone #AttractionsIndustry #GhostStories #HauntedHalloween #ThemeParkPodcast

Season 5, Episode 002: Whats next for America's Theme Parks Technologist? Matt Miller Returns! | Attractions Group Podcast

Join us on the Attractions Group Podcast for an exclusive interview with Matt Miller, a true visionary in the themed entertainment industry! 🎢 Previously a leader at Orlando Informer, Matt is now the Director of Creative Strategy & Portfolio at Innovated Studios, where he continues to shape the future of theme parks.
In this episode, Matt breaks down the fascinating role of a "Theme Park Technologist," revealing what it takes to be at the intersection of technology and immersive storytelling. We'll explore the near-future direction of technology in the attractions industry, from advanced ride systems to innovative guest experiences.
Plus, hosts Clete and David dive into a compelling discussion about the possibility of night operations at water parks. 🌊 Could extended hours and unique nighttime events enhance guest interest and create unforgettable experiences? Find out as we weigh the pros, cons, and potential for this exciting idea.
Don't miss this deep dive into the business of fun and the technology that makes the magic happen!
 
#ThemeParkTechnologist #ThemeParkNews #InnovatedStudios #OrlandoInformer #AttractionsGroupPodcast #Podcast #ThemeParks #Innovations #Technology #WaterParks #NightOperations #AmusementIndustry #MattMiller #GuestExperience #UniversalStudios #DisneyWorld

Season 5, Episode 001- Wild Adventures' Adam Floyd Kicks of Season 5 | Attractions Group Podcast

We’re back with Season 5 of the Attractions Group Podcast! To kick things off, we dive into Wild Adventures in Valdosta, Georgia — a park with a unique mix of thrills, family fun, and immersive experiences.
In this episode, we cover:- Six Flags spending cuts- What makes Wild Adventures stand out in the regional park landscape- The park’s blend of rides, animals, and entertainment- Insights into how parks like Wild Adventures balance guest experience, operations, and growth- United Parks and Entertainment sees raising attendance!
If you’re a theme park employee, industry pro, or passionate fan, you won’t want to miss this fresh start to our new season.
📌 Subscribe to stay tuned all season long for more stories, insights, and conversations from the world of themed entertainment!
 
#themeparks #WildAdventures #georgiathemeparks#AttractionsGroupPodcast #ThemeParks #AmusementParks #SeaWorld #SixFlags #BehindTheScare #HauntedAttractions #ThemeParkPodcast #CleteReinberger #DavidDetling #AttractionsIndustry #Podcast #SeasonFinale #BusinessOfFun #ThemeParkPodcast #Season5 #AttractionsIndustry #AttractionsGroupPodcast

Season 4, Episode 026- New Sea World Parks + Six Flags Q2 Report | The Attractions Group Podcast

In the Season 4 finale of the Attractions Group Podcast, hosts Clete Reinberger and David Detling are wrapping up an incredible season and looking ahead to the future!
This week, we dive into the latest and greatest in the theme park world, including:
- New SeaWorld Parks: What's on the horizon for SeaWorld? Clete and David discuss the company's new ventures and what it means for the industry and guests.
- Six Flags Q2 Report: The guys break down the latest financial news from Six Flags, offering their expert analysis on the numbers and what they reveal about the state of the company.
- "Behind the Scare": Get a sneak peek into the upcoming "Behind the Scare" series, a new project from The Attractions Group that will take you into the terrifying world of haunted attractions.
Season 5 Teaser: Clete and David share exciting details about what listeners can expect from Season 5, teasing new segments, special guests, and even more in-depth industry analysis.
Don't miss this jam-packed episode as they close out Season 4 and set the stage for an even bigger and better Season 5!
#AttractionsGroupPodcast #ThemeParks #AmusementParks #SeaWorld #SixFlags #BehindTheScare #HauntedAttractions #ThemeParkPodcast #CleteReinberger #DavidDetling #AttractionsIndustry #Podcast #SeasonFinale #BusinessOfFun

2025 Summer Replay #3- WWE Hall of Famer, Producer, Author, and more... Eric Bischoff (from 2023)

In this fascinating replay from March 2023, we sit down with a true disruptor in the world of entertainment—pro wrestling legend and media mogul, Eric Bischoff! While he's best known for his role in the Monday Night Wars and creating the NWO, Eric's insights go far beyond the wrestling ring.
In this episode, Eric proves that not all attractions involve roller coasters. We dive deep into the business of creating compelling guest experiences, the power of live events, and the crucial role of storytelling in captivating an audience. From his time as the President of WCW to his current ventures, Eric shares his unique perspective on what it takes to build a brand that people want to be a part of.
You'll hear his thoughts on:- The psychology of engaging an audience- The parallels between pro wrestling and other forms of entertainment- Why a great story is the ultimate attraction- The business of building a global brand- The lessons learned from the highs and lows of his career
 
Whether you're a fan of wrestling, an attractions industry professional, or just an entrepreneur looking for a masterclass in marketing and brand building, this is a can't-miss episode.
 
#EricBischoff #AttractionsGroupPodcast #AttractionsIndustry #ProWrestling #Entertainment #LiveEvents #Storytelling #GuestExperience #BrandBuilding #BusinessPodcast #WCW #NWO #ThemeParks #EntertainmentMarketing #Entrepreneurship

Season 4, Episode 025- East Coast "Slammer" Trip Recap! | Attractions Group Podcast

This week on the Attractions Group Podcast, David and Clete are back! Clete just returned from an
A detailed recap of Clete's 15-park East Coast trip
Reviews of coasters and attractions at Six Flags, Kings Dominion, Busch Gardens, and more!
Tips for planning a multi-park theme park road trip
The best and worst of the "Slammer" experience
Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more theme park content every week!
 
Website: www.theAttractionsGroup.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/attractionsgroupX: https://x.com/attractions_grp
 
#AttractionsGroupPodcast #ThemeParkPodcast #CoasterEnthusiast #ThemeParks #EastCoastSlammer #RollerCoasters #AmusementPark #SixFlags #KingsDominion #BuschGardens #CedarFair #Hersheypark #Knoebels #SixFlagsGreatAdventure #TripReport #ThemeParkTrip #RoadTrip #CoasterTrip #ThemeParkLife #PodcastEpisode