The Coaster101 Podcast

Our Wishlist For The New Enchanted Parks

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0400

Some of the biggest industry news in a while dropped late last week, with Six Flags announcing that the chain was selling seven of its parks - Six Flags St. Louis, Worlds of Fun, Valleyfair, Six Flags Great Escape, Michigan's Adventure, La Ronde, and Schlitterbahn Galveston - to EPR Properties, and a majority of the parks would be managed by the new "Enchanted Parks."

Enchanted Parks' CEO James Harhi recently gave an interview to the St. Louis Post Dispatch talking about what fans could expect at the park soon to be known as Enchanted Parks' Mid-America, which got us thinking about a wishlist for the other parks involved in the sale.

Andrew is joined by two separate Eric/k's from the Coaster101 - Eric with a C in California, and Erik with a K in Canada, to talk about what we'd all like to see at these seven parks going forward.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at coaster101.com/merch

Thanks to JM Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmentgrp.com

Six Flags Qiddiya City with Scott Schaffer & Hunter Hernandez

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Since it was first announced in 2018, the park that would eventually become known as Six Flags Qiddiya City has fascinated theme park fans and coaster enthusiasts around the world. Now that the park is open, we're still fascinated, but we also have the ability to talk to people who have visited the park now that's officially open.

Andrew is joined this week on the podcast by Scott Schaffer (CoasterForce, Upstop Media) and Hunter Hernandez (Theme Park Hunting on YouTube), who visited Six Flags Qiddiya City in early February as part of a wider Middle Eastern theme park trip.

Of course, we talk all things Falcon's Flight - the world's tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster - but also about the rest of the park's roller coasters, attractions, food and more.

We also talk briefly about what it was like to film a POV on Falcon's Flight - watch Scott's POV video filmed for CoasterForce by clicking here!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

No One Funs Like Wild Adventures

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

As a theme park fan and coaster enthusiast, Andrew has a few blind spots for parks he's never visited, despite them being located in his greater geographic region. One of those parks is Wild Adventures, located "halfway between Atlanta and Orlando" in Valdosta, GA - a park we wanted to learn more about.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, the park has a robust lineup of attractions including six coaster credits, more than 300 animals, a water park, and a summer concert series that's bringing some top-name musical acts to south Georgia in 2026.

Andrew is joined by the park's Director of Sales and Marketing Adam Floyd and PR Specialist Asher Raymond to talk all things Wild Adventures. One thing is for sure, No one "Funs" quite like Wild Adventures!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Six Flags Great Adventure's 2027 Coaster and more with Ryan Eldredge

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 14:00:00 -0500

Several weeks ago, we scheduled podcast recording time with Ryan Eldredge, Six Flags Great Adventure's Regional PR Manager. Ryan's been on the podcast before, talking Iron Menace at Dorney Park, wanted to get him on to talk about his other primary park that falls under his responsibility as PR Manager.

We were going to talk about the park in a pretty general sense - How great The Flash is - 2026 improvements - there are plenty! - the Safari Adventure Park being nominated for a 10Best Award (Vote for them!) for the first time, pretty standard stuff.

Then, yesterday, the park broke the internet when they opened a giant shipping container and unveiled a very purple piece of launch track for their new-for-2027 record breaking launch coaster. So, you know we had to talk about that too, right?

Dive in as Ryan talks all things Great Adventure, Content Creation, and yes, that fresh piece of roller coaster track that emerged from a shipping container.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Creating Themed Entertainment on Land, and at Sea with Justin Mabry

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0500

Theme Park live entertainment is a sector that's only continuing to grow at your favorite parks. From musical acts to "streetmosphere" characters, the idea of "Live E" as it's known to many is becoming a mainstay in the industry, especially post-Covid.

This week, we're joined by one of the intellectual forces behind some of your favorite theme park shows over the year, Justin Mabry of JM Entertainment. With springtime shows like "Brew Beatz" and "Stick(y) Paint" to fall and winter work like "Blade Drummers" and "Four Drummers Drumming," the JM Entertainment team is behind some of your favorite theme park shows, even if you didn't realize it.

We talk the creation of theme park shows, what it's like to work with a park on a specific show, and the challenges of opening a show at sea - which JM Entertainment has done recently for Norwegian Cruise Line!

(A bonus! For 176 episodes, we've had the same theme song for our podcast - masterfully created by the team at JM Entertainment. Justin and team were kind enough to refresh the song and bring it into 2026!)

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

It's 2026 and Coasters Are...Opening?

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0500

It's officially 2026, and with a new year, comes roller coasters that go from opening "next year" to "this year!"

Eric and Evan join Andrew to discuss some of the new roller coasters opening in North America in 2026 - is it as big of a year as 2025? Overall, probably not! But that doesn't mean that there aren't some incredible coasters opening this year.

From Fast & Furious to Flying Fox and everything in between, it's a primer for all of the new coasters scheduled to open this year. A great time to jump in!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at coaster101.com/merch

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

The Holiday Draft That's Not Really A Draft.

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0500

We're deep in the midst of the 2025 Holiday Season, and with not a lot of news going on - there are a few winter events here and there - we thought it might be fun to have a draft of our favorite holiday "things" at parks - decorations, food, entertainment, ride overlays, etc.

Except, Shane doesn't understand the concept of a draft and sent Eric and Andrew his list before we started recording - so this "draft" episode really turned into a discussion of our favorite holiday moments at the parks.

From the antics of Universal's walk-around Grinch character and discussions of how cold it actually gets in Central Florida to the long-lost traditions Gobbler sandwich at Carowinds' WinterFest and Kings Dominion's "Four Drummers Drumming" show, we encourage you to gather around the fireplace with a warm beverage and listen to three grown men discuss the Christmas season at theme parks. There's even a little "Earl the Squirrel" lore!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at coaster101.com/merch

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

IAAPA Expo Recap with Jessica Gardner, The Themeparkette

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0500

When you don't get to go to the IAAPA Expo, you're usually stuck following along on social media as all of the new ride vehicles are revealed, news breaks, and other general excitement abounds on the Expo floor.

Luckily, we were able to connect with Jessica Gardner - an actor, audiobook narrator, host of the American Coaster Enthusiasts "Ride with Us" podcast, and above all - theme park fan, probably best known by her online "persona" (which is really just her real personality) - The Themeparkette.

Andrew joins Jessica to talk all things IAAPA Expo, including ride reveals, what news is more shocking between Family Kingdom getting an RMC and Mango's on International Drive getting an S&S coaster, and just how serious Nate Bargatze is about his theme park aspirations.

Follow Jessica on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook at @themeparkette!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at coaster101.com/merch

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

What's Six Flags Over Georgia Cooking Up? Literally.

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0500

It's Thanksgiving Week, so what better time to talk about Food? As part of the Six Flags & Cedar Fair merger, a trend typically reserved for the Cedar Fair side of the aisle is making its way to Six Flags parks - the addition of an executive chef - including Chef Priscilla Hamilton, who joined Six Flags Over Georgia earlier this year.

This week on the podcast, not only are we joined by Chef Priscilla, but we're also joined by Angel Salgado, the park's Food & Beverage manager, to talk about the culinary transformation that has taken place this season at Six Flags Over Georgia.

With food becoming a more integral part of the theme park experience, we talk menu favorites, restaurant re-designs, and what it's like managing 39 dining outlets and more than 400 associates - all in the name of bettering Six Flags Over Georgia's culinary reputation!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at coaster101.com/merch

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Night With The Museum - Mark Rosenzweig & Kris Rowberry Talk The National Roller Coaster Museum

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Recently, the National Roller Coaster Museum was a topic of conversation in theme park internet circles - specifically when they held a fundraising campaign to raise money to bring four iconic coaster trains to the museum in Plainview, Texas. However, the sentiment was not "Wow, it's awesome that the organization is working to preserve roller coaster history." but rather "Wow. I can't believe this private collection (wrong) is hoarding coasters and will never open to the public (wrong) and it's 100% a scam organization." - (Again, wrong.)

Newsflash to the coaster enthusiasts who are somehow also well versed in traditional museum opening timelines and operations. These things take time. They take money. It's not as cut and dry as you might think of "well they have coasters I want to see so let me reenact the Eric Andre fence shaking meme in real life so they'll let me in."

This week on the podcast, we're joined by National Roller Coaster Museum & Archives Members Kris Rowberry (Ride Entertainment) & Mark Rosenzweig (3DX Scenic) to talk all things Roller Coaster Museum. History. Donations. Processes. Inspirations. The ideal experience. Teal Team Six. Did we get an opening date? No. Did we get a reason why? Yes. You'll have to listen to find out more.

This podcast is brought to you by the one person who fundraised to bring Time Warp to the National Roller Coaster Museum (not really - but if you're out there, we'd love to hear from you.)

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at coaster101.com/merch

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Coaster101 Goes To Knoebels

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

After several weeks of (fantastic) interviews with people in the industry - Andrew is once again joined by one of his Coaster101 co-writers, Evan, who recently made his first ever visit to Knoebels. (Evan did not invite Andrew, Andrew is only slightly offended as he writes this episode description.)

Celebrating 100 Years in 2026, Knoebels has 60 rides and attractions, including six roller coasters - several of which were built entirely in-house by the Knoebels maintenance team. They've also got some serious hardware from the Golden Ticket Awards - Phoenix has been named the best wooden coaster in the country for the seventh straight year, and the awards had to retire the "Best Food" category because Knoebels won it so often.

Come hang out and learn about why Knoebels is the perfect fall park to visit - $8 brisket sandwiches and all!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at coaster101.com/merch

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

You Guys Know Any WingZ? Adam Sandy Returns!

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Unless you've been living under a rock, you might notice that Zamperla's Roller Coaster department is on a bit of a hot streak in the recent past. This week on the podcast, we got to talk to one of the people who gets to sell these attractions - Adam Sandy, Roller Coaster Sales & Marketing Director for Zamperla.

Adam joins Andrew to talk all things Zamperla, including Top Thrill 2, the new Naruto-themed Family Thrill Launch coaster coming to France in 2026, the Double Heart Model's impending Asian debut, and just what we might see from Zamperla at next month's IAAPA Expo.

We also dive a little into flat rides - including Zamperla's newest "instagram superstar" - WingZ, which will make its debut on the show floor!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at coaster101.com/merch

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Jeffrey Siebert Talks Texas + Tormenta Rampaging Run

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0400

As they say, everything is bigger in Texas - and in this instance, that includes our podcast guest this week. Six Flags Regional General Manager for the state of Texas, Jeffrey Siebert, joins the show this week!

With a nearly 30-year career in the industry, Jeffrey tells us about his career, what exactly a Regional Park manager does, and oddly enough, the promotional schedule for a minor league hockey team.

We also have a healthy dose of what's happening at the Texas Six Flags parks, including Six Flags Over Texas' new-for-2026 giga dive coaster, Tormenta: Rampaging Run, and a tease for the future at both Six Flags Fiesta Texas and Schlitterbahn New Braunfels.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at coaster101.com/merch

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Coasters(101) Haunts & Dark Rides Talks SCarowinds

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

It's officially the Spooky Season, and what could be scarier than two coaster content creators coming together to talk about roller coasters their local theme park haunt - SCarowinds!

Michael Dutterer - maybe better known by his Tiktok alias "Coasters Haunts & Dark Rides" joins Andrew to talk all things Coasters (Michael is a Southeast Assistant Regional Rep for the American Coaster Enthusiasts) - Haunts (Michael is a former SCarowinds Scare Actor and SCarowinds Superfan) - and Dark Rides (we do talk about this, I promise.)

There's a lot new at SCarowinds this season - make sure you read our review on Coaster101.com - but if you prefer to listen to two passionate theme park fans talk about how Carowinds has made a change for the better this season - this is the podcast for you!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at coaster101.com/merch

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

The Dollywood Dream with Pete Owens and Devin Olson

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Can you believe that Dollywood is celebrating its 40th season? We can't either. Earlier this year, the park released a new documentary on their YouTube channel (and in syndication in their local television market) called "The Dollywood Dream."

In just 40:00 - a clever easter egg, if you will - Director Devin Olson of Devin Olson Media (a familiar name to longtime Coaster101 readers) weaves a tale that talks about the park's past, present, and even touches on the future.

We're joined by Devin and Dollywood's Vice President of Marketing Public Relations (and Executive Producer of "The Dollywood Dream!") Pete Owens to learn more about what went into the documentary, the stories that might have been left on the cutting room floor, and even a quick hint at what Dolly and the park have up their sleeves in 2026.

Watch the documentary here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fO0x0OoW1us

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at coaster101.com/merch

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Celebrating 20 Years of The Italian Job/Backlot/Queen City Stunt Coaster with Creative Director Dave Cobb

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Yes, we know. It's been a while. (You try having any free time with a 3 month old puppy.) But we are back with a vengeance with an INCREDIBLE guest - the perfect person to bring us out of our hiatus.

If you've been following Coaster101.com's website, you'll know that we just celebrated our 20th birthday, and have been chronicling a number of notable coasters that opened in 2005, and like Coaster101, are also celebrating two decades.

One of - well, two of those coasters are the former Italian Job Stunt Tracks, now known as Backlot Stunt Coaster at Canada's Wonderland or Queen City Stunt Coaster at Kings Island. The Kings Dominion version opened the following year.

One of the creative minds behind the ideation of this attraction was industry veteran and past Coaster101 podcast guest, Dave Cobb. Dave joins Andrew to talk all things Italian Job, from budget constraints, to the original ride concept (it's not what you think it is!), to what it felt like to bring a little bit of "movie magic" to the regional park level. Buckle up folks, because this is going to be a fun one.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

You can head to Dave's website at www.davecobb.com, and check out his YouTube channel for more great theme park content.

Videos Referenced:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jmXYjBmBI78&list=PLp9PErz-ReBhumyu-4WQADmsDPp1OyEyo&index=1&pp=iAQB
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z4Gq9Rcv76M&list=PLp9PErz-ReBhumyu-4WQADmsDPp1OyEyo&index=7&pp=iAQB0gcJCc0JAYcqIYzv
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_i1F0zb5a4&list=PLp9PErz-ReBhumyu-4WQADmsDPp1OyEyo&index=8&pp=iAQB
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RiGLs_30pfo&list=PLp9PErz-ReBhumyu-4WQADmsDPp1OyEyo&index=18&pp=iAQB0gcJCc0JAYcqIYzv

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at coaster101.com/merch

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

A Discussion On All Six Flags Parks But Mostly Six Flags America

Fri, 02 May 2025 12:00:00 -0400

In news that was somehow surprising and also not surprising, Six Flags Entertainment Corporation announced yesterday that the company would be closing Six Flags America at the end of the 2025 Season.

Evan and Eric join Andrew to talk all things Six Flags America, including previous visits, where attractions could end up, and if we think this is the last closure in the chain.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at coaster101.com/merch

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Coaster101 Goes To Universal's Epic Universe

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0400

Arguably the most important theme park opening in the United States in more than 25 years, Universal's Epic Universe officially opens in May. Fortunately, Shane has been able to visit the new park a few times during preview periods, and therefore has the scoop.

Shane joins Nick and Eric to talk all things Epic Universe on this week's episode. (At least that's what they told Andrew, who is writing this podcast description without actually listening to the episode first.)

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at coaster101.com/merch

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Joshua Bailey, Director of "The Stolen Kingdom"

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

As theme park fans who are chronically online, a fascinating story that has always eluded us with a conclusion was the disappearance of Buzzy - an audio-animatronic who was a central character in "Cranium Command" at Epcot's Wonders of Life Pavilion.

There is a new documentary currently on the "Film Festival Circuit" that unearths a little more about Urban Exploration, Abandoned Locations at Disney, and maybe even a little bit more about the disappearance of Buzzy. Luckily for us, we are joined on the podcast this week by the documentary's director, Joshua Bailey, to learn more.

The next chance to see Stolen Kingdom is at the Florida Film Festival in Orlando on April 11. Click here for more information!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at coaster101.com/merch

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Coasting The Country With WGN's Marcus Leshock

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0400

As the self-appointed "Roller Coaster Bureau Chief" of WGN-TV in Chicago, Marcus Leshock has seen it all, including a Double Rollback on Top Thrill "Cubs"ter at Cedar Point following a Cubs World Series win many years ago.

This week on the podcast, Marcus joins Andrew to talk all things coaster enthusiasm, his home park of Six Flags Great America, the demise of Kingda Ka, and the roller coasters and attractions he is most excited for in 2025!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Discovering The Meadows at Kentucky Kingdom with Logan Sanderson

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Kentucky Kingdom is a park with a storied history - and they've recently announced one of the biggest investments in park history - the retheming of an area of the park, now known as Discovery Meadow. Three new rides, 10 reimagined rides. Two new dining concepts, the works! Best of all, this isn't the only thing to look forward to at Kentucky Kingdom in the next few years!

Marketing Manger Logan Sanderson joins Andrew to talk all things Kentucky Kingdom, Discovery Meadow, and how there's a $14 million investment still to come at the park.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

2025 at SFOG & Carowinds with Chris Foshee

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

On episode 14 of the podcast, we interviewed Chris Foshee about all things social media. Now, five years and 146 episodes later (don't do the math, making a weekly show is tough!) - Chris is back, where he's now Regional Manager of Public Relations for Six Flags Over Georgia and Carowinds.

On this week's episode of the Coaster101 podcast, Chris joins Andrew to talk all things 2025 at both SFOG and Carowinds. There's definitely some Georgia Goldrusher, Snoopy's Racing Railway, and plenty of other news. Listen closely, and you might catch the occasional bad movie reference!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Ozarkly Is Fitting Adverb For Silver Dollar City

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

If you follow theme parks on social media, you'll notice that a park in the Ozarks is built just a little differently. Interspersed with the "Buy your Season Pass Now" and "Hey, we're opening soon" graphics, you'll find a healthy dose of memes and the occasional shark reference. Funny enough the park prefers it that way, and you'll see why.

Joining us on the Coaster101 podcast this week are Silver Dollar City Director of Communications Joey Thorsen & Communications Manager Dalton Fischer, who, in between noting that Andrew has still yet to visit Silver Dollar City, reveal a little behind the curtain for all things theme park communications, Fire in the Hole, Silver Dollar City Resort, and a hint of what might be happening in 2026. Maybe. TBD.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

A Coaster By Any Other Name

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0500

Last week, Six Flags Over Georgia shocked the theme park world by giving their originally-new-for-2024-but-now-new-for-2025 roller coaster - formerly known as a Georgia Surfer - a new name and backstory, before the coaster ever gave its first rides.

It led us to think about other coasters whose names have changed and as coaster enthusiasts, we're inclined to pick one name or another. John and Evan join Andrew for a game of "this or that" when it comes to past or current names for roller coasters.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Armchair Blue Sky-ing: Universal Orlando + Epcot

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

As theme park fans, especially recently with D23 announcements, we're familiar with the term "blue sky," used to tease ideas that are just that - ideas. They might happen, they might not. Usually, the people making these decisions have an idea of what they're doing. This podcast...is not that.

Andrew is joined by his younger brother J.T., who took an idea he had over the holidays and ran with it to the point where his ideas would change Universal Orlando Resort + Epcot forever. Definitely more of a casual theme park fan, J.T. has ideated a world where Universal no longer has the Marvel theme park exclusivity rights on the east coast, and instead replaces it with another franchise. He also decides to temporarily full close a park to "gut it."

Buckle up, this episode is a wild ride - and we will go ahead and note - this is 100% a "what if" idea/scenario, and we're just having fun.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

The Return of Nik Walker: Broadway Actor & Theme Park Superfan

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Several years ago, we interviewed Broadway actor Nik Walker on our podcast, and talked all things theme parks. Many people claim to be theme park "nerds." Nik, who played Aaron Burr in Hamilton, Otis Williams in Ain't Too Proud, and Sir Galahad in Spamalot, not only "walks the walk," when it comes to being a theme park fan - he can "talk the talk." Folks, this man literally told People Magazine how big of a theme park fan he is.

Nik rejoins the Coaster101 podcast to chat about finding fellow theme park fans in the wild (including his Spamalot co-star Taran Killam), his Halcyon voyage onboard the Star Wars Galactic StarCruiser, his on-going rivalry with James Monroe Iglehart, and how he's hoping to have it written into the contract of his next acting gig that he'll be allowed to miss a technical rehearsal in order to attend the Grand Opening of Universal's Epic Universe. (We're manifesting it, anyway.)

Two nerds, nerding out about decidely nerdy things. It's honestly a delightful listen!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Alexa, Play "It's So Hard To Say Goodbye" (to Roller Coasters)

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

It's our first podcast episode of 2025 - so of course, we have to join the discourse of the news that dominated the last few months of 2024 - closed and closing roller coasters.

Roller coasters like Scorpion at Busch Gardens Tampa got a send-off, while others, like Kingda Ka and Anaconda did not. Did these coasters need to close? Did the parks owe fans a send-off? Are there probably plenty of factors at play as to why these parks didn't give a send-off? Are coaster enthusiasts always going to ensure that they're the main character in any story?

These answers and more as Andrew, Eric, and Larry bring the Coaster101 Podcast into 2025!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Eric & Shane Go To IAAPA 2024

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 16:00:00 -0500

Do you like the sound of Andrew's voice on the Coaster101 podcast? Well, sorry. Because this week, there's no Andrew, but there is the dynamic duo of Eric and Shane, who attended the 2024 IAAPA Expo in Orlando!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Inside Mattel Adventure Park With VP of Attraction Design Cindy Emerick

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400

One of the more fascinating ongoing stories in the theme park world in the past several years has been the construction of Mattel Adventure Park in Glendale, Arizona. Featuring two roller coasters from Chance Rides, including the first-ever launched Hyper GT-X coaster, the Mattel Adventure park is scheduled to open in the next few months.

This week on the podcast, Andrew is joined by Cindy Emerick, Vice President of Attraction Design for Mattel Adventure Park to talk all things about the new Arizona park, as well as its sister park, scheduled to open in the Kansas City metro in 2026. We learn more about the coaster design, family rides, go-karts, and more for this unique family friendly indoor-outdoor theme park!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

2025: The Best Coaster Year in North America Since...?

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 14:00:00 -0400

Deep in the throes of announcement season, the Coaster101 team comes together to talk all things "New for 2025" Coasters in North America. Yes, there are coasters opening elsewhere, but have you looked at our listening audience?

What's our favorite coaster? What will be the sleeper hit? How do you pronounce Rakshasa? All these questions and more answered by Andrew, John, Larry and Evan on this week's Coaster101 podcast!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Coaster101's Thoughts on D23

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 09:00:00 -0400

No Blue Sky. Dirt is Moving. We're getting the long rumored door coaster, the Rivers of America are being replaced by Cars, and the best Disney Parks announcement might be at Hong Kong Disneyland? That can only mean one thing, it's D23 time.

Nick, John, Shane and Andrew join the podcast, sans musical interludes, to discuss everything that came out of the Disney Experiences Panel at D23. No stone is left unturned. We'll warn you, this one gets passionate - especially if you happen to be a fan of the Navi River Journey.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

The Legacy of Schwarzkopf with Kris Rowberry & Robert Ingle

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Following the success of their "Legacy of Arrow" Documentary, the team behind shorts and films including the "Lost Parks of California" and "The Path to Railblazer" is back again with a new documentary, "The Legacy of Schwarzkopf," debuting this fall.

Andrew is joined this week by Producer Kris Rowberry and Cameraman Robert Ingle to talk all things about the new documentary, which will be premier this November at COTALand. You're not going to want to miss it!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Activating with Carowinds Brand Activation Manager Chris Keith

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0400

It's no surprise that we talk about Carowinds a lot on this podcast, but this week, we're joined by one of the people whose job it is to make Carowinds look and sound good, both in and outside of the park.

A longtime friend of the podcast and industry veteran, Carowinds' Brand Activation Manager Chris Keith joins the podcast to talk all things Carowinds, his career in the industry, tangents, the return of the Cash Coaster FunTV (if you know, you know) spots, and more!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Palindrome, Circuit Breaker, and All Things COTALand with Park VP Matt Hughey

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400

What if we told you that over the past few years, a major project that has been on the minds of coaster enthusiasts isn't at a "traditional" theme park but rather at a motorsports complex that hosts NASCAR, F1, and Moto GP races each year?

Located at Austin, Texas' Circuit of the Americas, COTALAND is slowly but surely becoming a reality, proven by the fact that the track work park's first major coaster - the Gerstlauer Infinity Shuttle Coaster, Palindrome - is now complete, and the park is on track for a Summer 2025 Opening?

Andrew is joined on the podcast this week by Vice President of Park Operations for Circuit of the Americas, Matt Hughey, to talk all things COTALand, and how the park rose from the humble beginnings of a proposed housing development into the construction of two "North America's First" coasters.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Six Flags and Cedar Fair Have Merged...Now What?

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400

The biggest news in recent theme park history happened last week, so, officially a week after the dust has settled, Andrew and Eric are here to talk about it.

We're talking all things Six Flags Entertainment Corp this week. Should they have an all park pass? If so, how much should it cost? Should they offer a regional pass? What's something you want to bring from one legacy chain to the other and vice versa?

CNN suggested roller coaster fans were "nervous." Long story short, we're not.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

We Got A First Time Over Here! - Cedar Point & Dreamworks Land

Mon, 06 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

You always remember your first time...Wait. That sounded weird. But as coaster enthusiasts, heading to a park for the first time can be a memorable experience, especially when that park is Cedar Point.

Shane joins Andrew to talk about his first-ever trip to Cedar Point, which, while it lacked Top Thrill 2, made up for it with 50 coaster rides over three days! Shane also visited the new Dreamworks Land at Universal Orlando!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Top Thrill 2: Electric Boogaloo

Wed, 01 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Baby, we're ready to go!

Coaster Enthusiast eyes around the world were fixated on Sandusky, OH for the debut of Top Thrill 2, the spiritual successor to Cedar Point's Top Thrill Dragster. Fortunately for us, two C101 team members were among the first riders to ascend to the top of Top Thrill 2's twin 420' structures.

The "Ohi-bros" Nick and Kyle join Andrew this week with a report from Top Thrill 2 Media Day - talking all things TT2, from daytime night rides, to the intricacies of media live shots, to why Row 4 of all rows might just be the perfect sweet spot when riding this coaster!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Our Thoughts on Dorney Park's Iron Menace

Wed, 01 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

We've reached the point of the year where new roller coasters are opening all across the country - and fortunately for us, we have some "boots on the ground" taking first rides!

Andrew is joined this week by Coaster101's newest writer Evan, who headed to Allentown, PA to take on the 160' tall Iron Menace Dive Coaster at Dorney Park - the first of its kind coaster in the region!

Evan talks all things Iron Menace before a quick discussion on his most recent coaster credit - the infamous Big Apple Coaster at New York, New York. What happened in Vegas - and at Dorney! - certainly didn't stay there as we talk about it on this episode of the Coaster101 podcast!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Spring Break at Disney on Both Coasts

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Spring Break at Disney...but make it a double!

C101 writer Nick joins Andrew on the podcast to talk about their respective Spring Break Disney Trips - Nick with a traditional family vacation with his wife and two kids on a four-day Disneyland Vacation, and Andrew with a "Smash & Grab" day and a half at Magic Kingdom and Epcot while in Orlando for a conference.

We talk TRON, Guardians, Genie+ a triple 999,999 on Buzz Lightyear, and a Service Dog getting loose on Peter Pan. Yes. You read that correctly.

We also discuss lockers and shoes and Top Thrill 2, because it feels like that's a significant news item this week.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Coaster101 Goes to Busch Gardens Tampa

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Recently, members of the Coaster101 team took three separate trips to Busch Gardens Tampa - some repeat visitors, some first time visitors, and we're here to bring our experiences to you.

C101 Founder John and one of C101's newest writers Evan join Andrew on the podcast to talk all things Busch Gardens Tampa - Iron Gwazi, the Skyride, Eating Vegetarian (or not), Falcon's Fury, and more!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

1 on 1 with "Mr. Theme Park," Dennis Speigel

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

When you have the opportunity to connect with a long-time industry veteran, you're bound to get some incredible stories. When that industry veteran is Dennis Speigel, the stories are even better.

A former Kings Island and Kings Dominion General Manager, Dennis Speigel joins Andrew to talk all things development of Kings Island and Kings Dominion with some great coaster talk in between. Check out Dennis in the documentary "The Roller Coaster Wars That Birthed a Beast" on the VeryLocal streaming service!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Pleading the FITH: The C101 Guide to Silver Dollar City

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Nestled deep in the Ozark Mountains of Branson, Missouri is a park that has long been on Andrew's theme park bucket list - Silver Dollar City. A park with an immensely rich history, Silver Dollar City is celebrating 64 years of operation this season with an all-new roller coaster, Fire in the Hole.

Andrew is joined on the podcast this week by Dalton Fischer, Communications Manager for Silver Dollar City Attractions, to get the run-down on all-things SDC. From history, to coasters, to finding out if there are indeed sharks in Mystic River Falls, to Fire in the Hole, and more - you might even find out Silver Dollar City's secret ingredient for Cinnamon Bread in this week's episode.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

An EPIC (Universe + More) News Recap

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 05:00:00 -0500

After we dropped our most recent episode, a good amount of news dropped in the theme park industry, and in true podcast fashion, we're a few days late in covering the news.

Nick and John join Andrew to talk all things Epic Universe, SeaWorld's name Change, Busch Gardens' Skyride $5 charge, and Lakemont Park before wrapping up on a more topical announcement - the Super Bowl bet between Worlds of Fun and California's Great America! Missed any news in the past 2 weeks? Here's a great way to catch up!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Our podcast is created on Zencastr. Visit https://zen.ai/_9ik4a95vlEomVaMwgRjTY5uTY166mUmml21q79pzhM for 30% off your first month of Zencastr services!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

The SeaWorld Parks Coaster Draft

Tue, 23 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

There's not a lot of news in the industry this week, which means it's a perfect time for a good ole-fashioned coaster draft, and this time, we're taking the coasters SeaWorld Parks - SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, and Sesame Place.

C101 writer Larry, who apparently was involved in Coaster101's original podcast (that pre-dates this current edition by years - who knew?!) joins the podcast for the first time to compete with Andrew for a 12-round draft taking our favorite SEAS coasters. Head to our Twitter account - because we're not calling it anything else - to vote for who had the best lineup!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Articles Mentioned In The Show:
Are We In The Middle of a Family Coaster Renaissance?

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Our podcast is created on Zencastr. Visit https://zen.ai/_9ik4a95vlEomVaMwgRjTY5uTY166mUmml21q79pzhM for 30% off your first month of Zencastr services!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Carowinds' Hurler Is Getting RMC'd...No, Not That Way.

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Hurler at Carowinds is getting RMC’d. Pause for gasp. But not quite in the way you’re thinking those letters typically represent, where Rocky Mountain Construction is involved.

Instead, Hurler is receiving Routine Maintenance by Carowinds.

This week on the podcast, we’re joined by Steve Jackson, Carowinds’ Director of Maintenance and Construction, for a first-hand look at Hurler’s reconstruction, which Carowinds is doing in-house – and according to Steve, one of the few parks out there with an in-house team capable of re-construction and re-profiling of a wooden coaster like Hurler. We learn a little history about the land itself, the process of reconstruction and reprofiling, the importance of having a classic wooden roller coaster, and generally just nerd out for about 20 minutes with Steve.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Articles Mentioned In The Show:
Hurler's 25th Anniversary on the Carowinds Blog
Interview with GCI

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Our podcast is created on Zencastr. Visit https://zen.ai/_9ik4a95vlEomVaMwgRjTY5uTY166mUmml21q79pzhM for 30% off your first month of Zencastr services!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Seth Kubersky Returns to Talk Universal Orlando

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In the early day of the podcast, (episode 31, to be exact) author Seth Kubersky joined us to talk about his book - the Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando, then in its sixth edition. Luckily he's back (105 episodes later!) to talk all things about the ninth edition!

Seth joins Andrew to talk all things Unofficial Guide, but the conversation delves a little bit into Jurassic World VelociCoaster, Dreamworks, Minion Blast, and of course, Epic Universe!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Our podcast is created on Zencastr. Visit https://zen.ai/_9ik4a95vlEomVaMwgRjTY5uTY166mUmml21q79pzhM for 30% off your first month of Zencastr services!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

New Year, New Coasters Opening in 2024

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0500

Our new year's resolution is to be more consistent with podcasting, and we're back for 2024, ready to ride every new roller coaster opening this year.

Andrew is joined by C101 team members Mike (who makes his first ever podcast appearance), Nick and Shane to talk all things 2024 as it relates to new attractions. What's our most anticipated attraction? Listen to find out!

We cover a bit of everything -- and it's a great show to jump back into the Coaster101 podcast in the new year!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Our podcast is created on Zencastr. Visit https://zen.ai/_9ik4a95vlEomVaMwgRjTY5uTY166mUmml21q79pzhM for 30% off your first month of Zencastr services!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

IAAPA Recap-a

Tue, 21 Nov 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Real life has a funny way of getting in the way of podcasts, but after Andrew planned his wedding and got married, followed by kidney stone removal surgery - the Coaster101 podcast is officially back, and there's no better way to jump back into the news of the amusement industry than with a recap of the 2023 IAAPA Expo.

Andrew is joined by C101 team member Shane, who walked the "9 miles of aisles" at the Orange County Convention Center, taking in the coaster train unveilings, edu-sessions, flying theaters, and the Condiment Sow! All in a few days' work for Shane!

We cover a bit of everything -- and it's a great show to jump back into the Coaster101 podcast!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

We're currently selling 2024 Roller Coaster Calendars, and 100% of the proceeds go to Give Kids The World. Check them out at c101.co/24calendar!

Thanks to JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

All Things Rocky Mountain Construction with COO Jake Kilcup

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 13:00:00 -0400

It's been a busy 2023 for Rocky Mountain Construction. Two all-new coasters, a major retrak-ing project in Orlando, a merger, bringing Silver Dollar City's Fire In The Hole to a new generation, and arguably, most importantly, WILD MOOSE.

Andrew is joined by RMC's COO Jake Kilcup to talk about the roller coaster of a year that Rocky Mountain Construction has had, and how the ride is just beginning!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Iron Menace 2 Society with Dorney Park's Ryan Eldredge

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 16:00:00 -0400

Happy National Roller Coaster Day! Last week, Dorney Park announced Iron Menace - the park's first ground-up roller coaster to be built since Hydra: The Revenge in 2005. Standing 160' tall, Iron Menance will truly change Dorney Park's Skyline.

We're joined on the podcast this week by Ryan Eldredge, Dorney Park's Public Relations and Communications Manager to talk all things Iron Menace and also some really good conversation about Dorney Park's social media over the past 18 months since he started at the park!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

As The (Deno's) WonderWheel Turns: One on One with Deno "DJ" Vourderis

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 05:00:00 -0400

You never know when you'll find a podcast guest in the wild. During a visit to Deno's Wonder Wheel earlier this summer, Andrew was riding their new roller coaster, Phoenix when he struck up a conversation with a ride operator. As it turned out, that "ride operator" was Deno "DJ" Vourderis, third-generation co-owner and operator of Deno's Wonder Wheel amusement park.

DJ was kind enough to join Andrew again on the Coaster101 podcast, talking all things Deno's Wonder Wheel (and its 103-year-old custom-milled steel wheels), Coney Island, Phoenix, Roller Coaster Maintenance, and more. If you listen closely, you might just hear a bit of unreleased information about the Phoenix, and how its cycles might be a little longer by the end of the season.

Be sure to check out Andrew's rankings of Coney Island's Roller Coasters by clicking HERE.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

The Universal Draft

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 05:00:00 -0400

It's a big week for theme park news, so before all that drops, we wanted to have a little bit of fun. Andrew, Shane, and Nick join forces for a 12-round Universal draft!

There are some caveats -- you had to take at least two International Attractions, at least one show, and at least one defunct attraction. Also, seasonal events were not allowed to be taken -- which is why Halloween Horror Nights wasn't an option!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

1 on 1 With The "Chief" of Lost Island Theme Park, Eric Bertch

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 16:00:00 -0400

We can count on one hand the number of new, full-scale theme parks that have opened in the United States in the past 15 years. One of those parks happens to be Lost Island, located in Waterloo, Iowa. By all accounts, this park is a hidden gem, and features a pair of unique roller coasters, a world class Sally Dark Ride, and on top of that, a fantastic and friendly staff along with its own IP across five immersive themed lands.

Lost Island's General Manager Eric Bertch joins Andrew on the podcast to talk all things Lost Island, from concept, to creation, to operations and attraction highlights. By all accounts, this isn't your traditional regional theme park, and as the park enters its second year of operation, more people need to visit it and experience it for themselves!

Visit Lost Island's Website at www.thelostisland.com and follow Eric on Twitter at @lostislandchief

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Let'sa Go to Universal Studios Japan & Super Nintendo World

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Despite living in California, Eric has not yet made it to Universal Studios Hollywood to experience Super Nintendo World stateside. He has however, now officially done the next best (and to be honest, probably better) thing: Visited the original land at Universal Studios Japan.

In this episode, Eric takes Andrew through his trip to Universal Studios Japan, including Super Nintendo World, but also talking about USJ's roller coasters, similiar attractions to the domestic Universal Parks, and of course, because it's Eric, a discussion on Waterworld.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Rocky Mountain, Hi!

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Earlier this year, coaster enthusiasts on the east coast were blessed with not one, but two brand-new creations from the wizards at Rocky Mountain Construction - Arie Force One at Fun Spot Atlanta and Wildcat's Revenge at Hersheypark. Luckily, we have two Coaster101 team members who have ridden these new coasters and can talk about them and make our host, who has yet to ride them, jealous.

John & Kyle join Andrew to talk about their experiences at Media Day for both coasters, and what enthusiasts can expect when they ride this season and beyond. Spoiler alert: As is usually the case when RMC gets involved, we have some winners on our hands!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

DarKoaster101

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Andrew has officially unpacked his podcasting equipment after a move. Recently, he had the opportunity to head up to Busch Gardens Williamsburg for Media Day for the park's 10th roller coaster, DarKoaster. This fun family-friendly roller coaster has a bit of everything, and so does this podcast episode!

Reviews, Interviews, On-Ride Audio -- this podcast will have you braving the storm!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Champions of the 2023 TPEG Alumni Community Theme Park Design Competition

Tue, 30 May 2023 06:00:00 -0400

The 2023 TPEG ALUMNI Community Theme Park Design Competition is in the books and the top teams have been announced. On this week's episode of the Coaster101 Podcast, we welcome the members of Team 385, the champions of the competition: Andrew Yates, David Manguiat, Ella Rudkin, Jacob English, & Audrey Nelson. We discuss all aspects of their project, The Lost Trails, including Mothman: The Ride, as well as general advice on how to use opportunities like this to prepare for a career in themed entertainment.

You're definitely going to want to check out their presentation while you listen to the podcast - the artwork is fantastic! This is the third year for the TPEG alumni community competition and every year we're blown away by how much thought and detail go into these presentations. This year was no exception.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram.

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to Justin from JMMD Entertainment for providing our theme song.

Aeronautica Landing Opens at Carowinds

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Multiple years in the making, Carowinds' newest land, Aeronautica Landing, celebrating all things aviation, is officially open. We had the opportunity to attend the media preview for the new land, and we were incredibly impressed.

Andrew talks all things Aeronautica Landing, and then closes the show with interviews conducted on-site at media day -- Carowinds' Executive Chef John Loukas, Cedar Fair's Corporate Director of Creative Development Ken Parks, Cedar Fair Corporate Producer Clayton Lawrence, and Carowinds' Director of Live Entertainment (and past podcast guest!) Ryan Allen.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

The Disney Global Ride Challenge with Nathan Firesheets

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 05:00:00 -0400

Nathan Firesheets is no stranger to Disney Parks-related Challenges. A veteran of both the Parkeology and Ride Every Challenge at Walt Disney World and Disneyland, Nathan recently completed a journey that makes us simultaneously jealous and terrified: Every Ride at all 12 Disney Parks. In 12 Days.

On this episode of the Coaster101 Podcast, we talk about Nathan's world-spanning journey, which encapsulated 216 Disney Rides in 12 days.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Kids Say the Darndest Things About Legoland Florida

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 07:00:00 -0400

Henry (9) and Nora (5) from Ohio, state of America, come on the show to review the new Pirate River Quest ride at Legoland Florida and their first time visiting Peppa Pig Theme Park.

Recapping Six Flags' 2023 Announcements

Tue, 07 Mar 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Six Flags made a slew of announcements on March 1. From attractions we already knew about like Aquaman Power Wave and the P'Sghetti Bowl Coasters coming to Six Flags Fiesta Texas and Over Georgia, to new attractions that were previously unannounced.

Eric joins Andrew to recap the highlights of the announcement, and there's an odd fascination with Six Flags New England's new Dinosaur Offroad Adventure.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Entering The Grid at Tron Lightcycle Run

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0500

TRON: Lightcycle Run officially opens at Walt Disney World on April 4, but Shane got to enter the grid a little early, and recounts his experience riding TRON during Cast Member Previews.

Shane and Andrew also chat about their recent trip to SeaWorld Orlando for the Seven Seas Food Festival and a Coaster Smash & Grab at Fun Spot Kissimmee -- some great food and coaster talk!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Inside the Disney 100 Exhibition at the Franklin Institute with Chief Experience & Strategy Officer Abby Bysshe

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0500

This past weekend, the Disney 100 Exhibition made its debut at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia. Covering 20,000 square feet of event space, the exhibit covers all things over the century history of the Walt Disney Company.

Andrew is joined this week by Blooloop Top 50 Museum Influencer Abby Bysshe, Chief Experience & Strategy Officer for the Franklin Institute (who also happens to be Andrew's cousin!) to go inside "The Happiest Museum Exhibit On Earth!"

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Andrew and His Brother Go to Universal Orlando...Hilarity Ensues

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Andrew makes it to his fair share of theme parks, but his younger brother J.T., while a fan of theme parks, isn't as in depth in the hobby. So when the duo heads to Universal Orlando, you never know what will happen.

J.T. makes his podcast debut as the brothers Stilwell discuss a recent Universal Orlando vacation that coincided with an Orlando Informer meet-up. We get thoughts on Velocicoaster, Hagrids, Fast and the Furious, Fallon, and more!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

LIVE from Carowinds for an Aeronautica Landing Hard Hat Tour

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0500

This week's show is a little different than usual. Andrew had the opportunity to visit Carowinds for a Construction Tour of the all-new Aeronautica Landing, which opens later this spring.

Rather than talk about rides, he put the recorder on during the tour, and is taking you on an auditory journey of unedited audio as he walked through the mud and saw all of the construction happening!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

The GP Visit Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 06:00:00 -0500

As coaster enthusiasts, we all have friends who we refer to (lovingly) as "GP." So when members of the GP visit a park that you've never visited, you obviously want the "real" story that isn't as coaster focused.

Andrew is joined by his college roommate Clint and Clint's "friends from back home" Chris and Kyle to talk about their recent trip to Six Flags Fiesta Texas. We talk personal coaster history, coaster counts, and of course, Chop Six. This has the chance to be one of the funniest episodes we've ever done!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Carolinas (+Virginia & Tennessee) Coaster Draft with @ParkRovers and @eriks_coasters

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 05:00:00 -0500

Happy New Year! Native North Carolinian Andrew is joined by two other North Carolinians, Andrew from Park Rovers and Erik of "Erik's Coaster Tweets" to conduct a Carolinas Coaster Draft, with the added wrinkle of Virginia and Tennessee thrown in the mix!

Head to our Twitter account to vote for whose lineup you think is best!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

All Your Home Parks Want For Christmas

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 07:00:00 -0500

It's the last new Coaster101 Podcast Episode of 2022, and we're talking Christmas Gifts. Not just any Christmas gifts - but what you want your home parks to open under the tree!

Last week, we posed the question "What do you want your home park to open under its Christmas Tree?" and Nick joins Andrew to talk about their own home parks, as well as some of our favorite answers from the C101 audience! Spoiler alert: roller coaster manufacturers are going to be busy assisting Santa if these wishes were to come true!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Get your 2023 Coaster101 Calendar, where 100% of net proceeds benefit Give Kids The World at http://c101.co/23calendar!

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

An Audio Journey of "Kings Island: A Photographic Journey" with Author Barry Hill

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0500

Longtime listeners will remember when we interviewed author Evan Ponstingle about his book: Kings Island: A Ride Through Time. After that book was released, publisher Barry Hill of Rivershore Creative felt that the only thing missing was a visual accompaniment.

This week on the podcast, Andrew interviews Barry about his new book "Kings Island: A Photographic Journey" - a 200-page coffee table book featuring hundreds of color photos, documents, blueprints, concept art and more, all centered around the history of Kings Island.

It's available now at Kings Island's Online Shop, and purchasers can get 10% off if they buy before January 1, 2023.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Ranking The Best States for Coaster Enthusiasts with @Coaster365

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 06:00:00 -0500

After the Thanksgiving break, we're back again with some peak "off-season" content. Bryant Olivera, aka the internet's "Coaster-A-Day" calendar, @Coaster365, joins Andrew to arbitrarily rank the best states for coaster enthusiasts.

Their lists are similar, but you might be surprised at some of the rankings and reasonings!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Recapping IAAPA 2022 - New Coasters, New Trains, The Condiment Cow, and MORE!

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 06:00:00 -0500

It's Thanksgiving Week, which means everyone will gather around the table to talk about all of the shiny new trains revealed at IAAPA. At least that's what we think.

Shane visited the IAAPA Expo in Orlando last week, and has the scoop on all of the new trains, announcements that weren't covered in the press briefings, and something called the Condiment Cow, perhaps the surprise hit of this year's Expo!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Previewing IAAPA 2023 with Marcus from the Drunk Riders

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0500

It's IAAPA Week, and we're joined by "friend of the pod" Marcus from The Drunk Riders to talk media announcements, speculation and more!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Adam Sandy Returns to Talk All Things Zamperla

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Ahead of next week's IAAPA Expo We're joined on the podcast this week by Zamperla's Director for Roller Coaster Sales and Marketing (as well as "Friend of the Pod" and all around good-guy) Adam Sandy.

Zamperla is in the midst of a roller coaster renaissance, and has announced three coaster projects in recent months. We talk Cedar Point, Adventureland, PNE Playland, and more!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Ghoster101: The C101 Team takes on Zombezi Bay, SCarowinds, and HHN31!

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

With one week until Halloween, we're taking the time to talk Haunts -- from the small Zombezi Bay at Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, to SCarowinds at Carowinds, to the Grandaddy of them all, Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando.

This week on the show, join Andrew, Nick and Shane as they recap their #SpookySZN exploits in Ohio, Florida, and the Carolinas!

Read the reviews here!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Redeeming Coaster Moments

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Last week on Twitter, we posed the question: What’s a coaster that is overall not great but has *one* redeeming element or moment? The Coaster101 audience came through with a variety of answers, and we discuss them this week!

John joins Andrew to talk the results of the Wooden Coaster Draft, Coaster101's recent appearance in the Wall Street Journal, and dives into the topic of "signature" moments on otherwise average coasters. Do we agree with the audience? Do we blow holes in their arguments? Tune in to find out!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Wooden Coaster Draft

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

We're back, and this week, we're taking on the highly original concept of hosting a wooden coaster fantasy draft. To put an added wrinkle, we've put together 10 unique categories that our three podcasters have to draft by.

Head to our Twitter account to vote for whose lineup you think is best!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Coaster101Cuzzies feat. CoasterBro

Sun, 18 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

After a few weeks of real life, Andrew is back, and is joined by "The Pat McAfee of Coaster TikTok," CoasterBro from the Coaster Cuzzies podcast. There's been a good bit of news in the past few weeks, so we're recapping it, giving our thoughts on Top Thrill Dragster 2.0, DarKoaster at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, the Golden Ticket Awards, and recapping D23! It's a lot! Strap in!

Listen to this podcast. Be a roller coaster enthusiast.

For all things Coaster Cuzzies, visit http://solo.to/coastercuzzies

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

What Makes Canada's Wonderland So Wonderful

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 06:00:00 -0400

Three members of the Coaster101 team recently met at Canada’s Wonderland to experience the Toronto amusement park’s 17 roller coasters and on today's podcast we talk all about them! In a year when it felt like every other coaster enthusiast went to Europe over the summer, we decided we had to go international too, so naturally we went to Canada.

On this week's episode of the Coaster101 Podcast we discuss:

What's the best roller coaster at Canada's Wonderland?
What's the fourth best coaster at the park?
What's the worst roller coaster at Canada's Wonderland?
Is Yukon Striker the best dive coaster?
How does Leviathan stack up to other B&M giga coasters Fury 325 and Orion?
Is Vortex the best remaining Arrow suspended coaster in the world?
What surprised us about Canada's Wonderland
How's the food at Canada's Wonderland
What type of coaster should Canada's Wonderland get next?
And much more!

Correction: the first inversion on Yukon Striker is 187 feet (not 183 like incorrectly stated during the show, sorry).

Read our complete ranking and rating for all the roller coasters at Canada's Wonderland here.

Check out Tyler's YouTube Channel, Wonderland Weekly.

Vortex vs The Bat POVs

Video montage of our day at Canada's Wonderland

Listen to the show in the player below, or anywhere you consume your podcasts! Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram.

Find the latest and greatest Coaster101 and theme park-inspired merch at c101.co/teepublic!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Cedar Fair's 2023 Announcements - Featuring Carowinds, Worlds of Fun, Canada's Wonderland and Cedar Point!

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0400

It's about that time of year where many refer to as "Theme Park Christmas," where parks announce their plans for the following season, and guests reap the benefits of all of the shiny new toys the park unwrap for next year. On August 11, multiple Cedar Fair parks made announcements for 2023, including Carowinds, Canada's Wonderland, Worlds of Fun, and Cedar Point.

You can read more about these announcements on Coaster101.com, but why not hear more about them from the parks themselves. We're joined by Carowinds Director of Communications Courtney McGarry-Webber, Worlds of Fun Communications & PR Manager Brian McGannon, Canada's Wonderland Director of Communications Grace Peacock, and Cedar Point Director of Communications to get the "low down" on everything coming to their respective parks in 2023!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Back to Glenwood Caverns with General Manager Nancy Heard

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0400

A year ago last week, Glenwood Caverns announced the largest project in their history, the Gerstlauer Infinity Coaster, Defiance. Standing highatop the Rocky Mountains, Defiance opened at the beginning of July to rave reviews.

There's no better person to talk Defiance than park General Manager Nancy Heard, who enjoyed her time so much on the podcast last August that she was super excited to come back on again! She joins Andrew and Nick to talk Defiance, Glenwood Caverns fall events and more!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

The Coaster101 Podcast: Episode 101, The Roller Coaster Story We Promised We'd Never Tell

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0400

Happy 101st Episode of the Coaster101 Podcast. In celebration of this momentous occasion, we gathered Andrew, John, Kyle and Nick to tell a roller coaster story we've hesitated to tell for three years.

Join us for a humorous oral history of the time that the four of us headed to a family entertainment center in Charlotte to ride a Miner Mike roller coaster that wasn't easily accessible, especially for four grown adults. Not only did we get to ride, but we even got to operate the coaster. Yes, you read that correctly.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

The Coaster101 Guide to Six Flags Great America

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 07:00:00 -0400

It's Episode 100, but the milestone celebration is coming with Episode 101, because we're doing it for the brand. As we enter triple digits, we're revisiting our "Coaster101 Guide to" series with a look at one of John's "Home Away from Home" parks, Six Flags Great America.

Did you know that the Chicago-area park was originally opened by Marriott Hotels? John talks park history, his personal history with the park, his favorites, and provides tips and tricks for first time visitors!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

A First Timer's Guide to Kings Island

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 09:00:00 -0400

We've got a first time over here! While multiple members of the Coaster101 team have visited Kings Island in the past, Shane had the opportunity to visit the park for the first time recently, and we thought a fresh perspective would be good to showcase on the podcast.

Shane joins Andrew, and brings along his buddy Colin (@AllClearCoasters on Instagram) to talk about his recent trip to Kings Island, as the park celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Iron Shark, Boardwalk Bullet, Deep In The Heart of Texas.

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 07:00:00 -0400

Andrew is traveling for work this week, and hotel internet is less than ideal for recording a podcast. But, the show must go on. Luckily, the work trip brought him to Houston, and there are two roller coasters within a decent drive -- and he got to experience both.

Learn more about the Gerstlauer Eurofighter Iron Shark at Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier and Boardwalk Bullet at Kemah Boardwalk, all while Andrew drives solo on a Texas highway. It's a different format show, and we promise we'll never make you listen to Andrew ramble for 20 straight minutes ever again.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Adventuring in Michigan at Michigan's Adventure

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 07:00:00 -0400

We're back!

One of the least talked about Cedar Fair parks (at least from a coaster enthusiast's perspective) is Michigan's Adventure. It's often considered neglected or forgotten in favor of Cedar Fair's other parks, so OF COURSE we're going to talk about it on our podcast!

Nick joins Andrew to talk about his recent visit to Michigan's Adventure, talking about the park from the perspective a coaster enthusiast who is also a dad to two young children, Titan Track on Wolverine Wildcat, and what Nick's first few weeks as a Cedar Fair Platinum Passholder have been like!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

CGA's Land is Sold...Now About Those Rides...

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 22:00:00 -0400

We weren't going to have a podcast this week. Then, the news broke that Cedar Fair had sold the land out from underneath California's Great America to a real estate developer, and the park would cease to operate sometime in the next 11 years.

The land is sold...but California's Great America has a number of rides that could end up at other Cedar Fair parks. Join Andrew, Shane, Nick, and Northern California Resident who claims CGA as his home park, Eric to discuss the potential future of the roller coasters and more at California's Great America. No, we don't have insider information. It's purely speculation. We're having fun!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

The History of Roller Coaster Video Games with DJ of Corkscrew Convos

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0400

We all recognize the name Roller Coaster Tycoon, or No Limits. But did you know that "Roller Coasters in Video Games" date back nearly 40 years?

This week on the Coaster101 Podcast, Andrew is joined by DJ of the Corkscrew Convos podcast this week to deep dive into the history of theme park and roller coaster video games, talking about some of our personal favorites along the way!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Our Theme Park Guilty Pleasures

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0400

As theme park enthusiasts, we're often told how we should feel about certain rides or attractions. Like something more than everyone else does? You're weird. Like something less than everyone else does? You're also weird. However, the key is liking what you like, because in reality, it doesn't matter otherwise!

This week's show has Shane and Andrew talking about some of their favorite theme park guilty pleasures. There are some controversial picks in this discussion, but at the end of the day, we like what we like!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Dorney or Dor-not, There Is No Try.

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 07:00:00 -0400

Kyle and John recently made a visit to one of the United States' few remaining trolley parks, Dorney Park in Allentown, PA. The two-first time visitors join Andrew to talk about their experience.

The trio talk the park's coaster lineup, Demon Drop, the Zephyr, our thoughts on what the park's next roller coaster should be and how the Coaster101 team ended up in one of Dorney Park's TikToks.

Visit Dorney Park's website, and follow them on social media at @dorneyparkpr.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Inside Lost Island Theme Park with The Weber Group

Mon, 30 May 2022 10:00:00 -0400

In this day and age, it's rare that we see a full-scale ground-up theme park being built, and especially a ground-up theme park in Iowa. Fortunately, The Lost Island is up for the task. On this week's podcast, we talk with The Weber Group's Chief Theming Officer (what an incredible title!) Jim Doiron about what went into the theming for The Lost Island, which is scheduled to open next month.

We learn more about theming the park's three roller coasters, five themed realms, working with Sally Dark Rides on Volkanu: Quest for the Golden Idol and so much more!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Theme Park Journalist Arthur Levine Talks Substack, Guardians of the Galaxy and More!

Mon, 23 May 2022 07:00:00 -0400

When starting a podcast, like we did in 2020, you have a list of guests you really want to try to get on the show. It took almost two years, but we got one of our "big fish," Theme Park Journalist Arthur Levine.

Known mostly for his work in USA Today, TripSavvy (fka About.com), and frequent appearances on the CoasterRadio podcast, Arthur has recently started a new journalism venture with the creation of his Substack newsletter, which you can find at www.aboutthemeparks.fun

On this week's episode, Arthur joins Andrew to talk all things theme park journalism, including how he got his start in his 30-year journalism career writing about theme parks, his new Substack newsletter, and more. There's a great discussion about Guardians of the Galaxy and of all things, Professional Wrestling. You don't want to miss it!

You can find Arthur on Twitter at @aboutthemeparks.

For the story of Arthur operating Phoenix at Deno's Wonder Wheel, Click Here.
For Arthur's Rankings of Busch Gardens Coasters, Click Here.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Questions That Need Answering

Mon, 16 May 2022 07:00:00 -0400

It's that time of year again -- another listener questions show! Join Andrew and John as they take on questions that make them think, from overrated roller coasters, to launch vs. lift, to why parks don't advertise their rides for season-long farewell tours.

John and Andrew are even tasked with the question from former podcast guest Henry (Nick's 8-year-old son) on why roller coasters exist in the first place. You want deep questions? Look no further than those from an 8 year old.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Virginia is for Coaster Lovers, Especially Those Who Love Pantheon & Tumbili

Mon, 09 May 2022 07:00:00 -0400

They say Virginia is for Lovers...Coaster Lovers. Recently, Andrew and Eric both had the (separate) opportunities to experience the new-for-2022 Pantheon at Busch Gardens Williamsburg while Andrew was able to extend his commonwealth trip and experience Tumbili (and Jungle X-Pedition) at Kings Dominion as well!

If you're looking for coaster nerd talk on the latest and greatest roller coasters in the "Mother of States" (weird nickname, but okay) -- look no further than this episode of the Coaster101 podcast!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Matt Schmotzer - Print My Ride Detroit

Mon, 02 May 2022 06:00:00 -0400

On this week's episode of the Coaster101 podcast we're joined by Matt Schmotzer of Print My Ride Detroit. We first noticed Matt five years ago when he unveiled he was working on a working 3D printed roller coaster model recreation of Invertigo shuttle coaster found at Kings Island. We caught up with Matt to hear about the incredible projects he's been working on since then, including:

The challenges of building the Steel Vengance model at Cedar Point and trying to get it to work
His relationship with CoasterDynamix
The most challenging nanocoasters to design were
The origin story of Coaster Cutouts
Why he made a 12 foot tall 3D printed model of Raptor's loop
Which does he like better: Velocicoaster or Iron Gwazi
And much more!

https://www.coaster101.com/

What Happens in Vegas...We'll Talk About On This Podcast!

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0400

Viva Las Podcast. Andrew recently visited Las Vegas, and got to experience a lot of "America's Playground's" offerings during his 72 hours, from roller coasters, to live entertainment, to immersive experiences and more. Fortunately for us, he wasn't the only person with the first name Andrew to have a similar experience recently.

We're joined on the podcast this week by In The Loop's Andrew Hyde to talk all things Vegas. From Big Apple Coaster, to Circus Circus, to Speed: The Ride, to Lost Spirits Distillery at Area 15, The Neon Museum, the Beatles Cirque du Soleil show at the Mirage and more, everything is covered in this week's show!

Follow Hyde on Twitter at @OnlineHyde, and listen to In The Loop anywhere you can find our podcast!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Hopping Aboard Disney's Galactic Starcruiser

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0400

One of the most ambitious immersive experiences in theme park adjacent history - The Star Wars Galactic Star Cruiser -- recently opened at Walt Disney World Resort. While we are still attempting to find our way to Florida to experience it ourselves (Starcruiser Dreams with a Pop Century Budget...can anyone else relate?) We fortunately were able to track down a guest from one of the preview voyages, who is able to recount his experience for us.

"Friend of the Pod," Vice President for Advancement for Give Kids The World, Steven Amos had the opportunity to take a voyage aboard the Galactic Star Cruiser with a number of "Wish" Children and their families prior to the Star Cruiser's opening. Steven visited the Halcyon with his wife, and two young children. We talk a bit of everything, from the level of immersion, to the disembarking into Disney's Hollywood Studios, to if you can watch Disney Channel in your Star Cruiser Cabin.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Inside Tumbili and Jungle X-Pedition with Kings Dominion

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 07:00:00 -0500

It's a big week for Kings Dominion, opening for the season on March 12. In celebration of that big week, we've got a BIG episode centered around the all-new Tumbili 4-D Free-Spin and re-themed Safari Village, which is now known as Jungle X-Pedition.

We're joined on the podcast this week by Bridgette Bywater, Vice President and General Manager for Kings Dominion, Tony Turner, Head of Creative Services for Live Entertainment, and Executive Chef Denis Callinan, to learn more about everything going on with Tumbili and Jungle X, from rides, to theming, to story, and more.

If you listen closely, you might even notice that we get to break a little bit of exclusive news about the restaurant formerly known as Outer Hanks!

For more information about Kings Dominion, be sure to visit their website, and follow the park on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Taking a Family to Universal Orlando

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 07:00:00 -0500

Recently, Nick returned from a long weekend at Universal Orlando with his family. While we all love roller coasters (yes, he rode VelociCoaster), when your 8-year-old and 4-year-daughter are in tow, we all know that family comes first.

This week on the podcast, Nick talks about the ins and outs of taking a family to Universal Orlando. From attractions, to accommodations, to just how many beads its possible to catch during a few viewings of Universal Orlando Mardi Gras parade, it's all covered in this episode of the Coaster101 podcast.

Also, if you stick around to the end, you might get to hear Nick's kids' thoughts on their recent trip in a very special mini-mini-episode of the Coaster101 podcast!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us! If you review the show this week, you're entered in to a chance to win a Coaster101 Prize Pack!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Everything You Need To Know about Iron Gwazi!

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 07:00:00 -0500

Last week, Shane and Mike from the Coaster101 team had the chance to ride Iron Gwazi, the world's tallest and steepest hybrid coaster. Spoiler Alert: It lives up to the hype.

This week on the podcast, Shane joins Andrew to talk all things Iron Gwazi, from ride experience, to merch, to favorite elements, to theming and more. If you're looking for the most in-depth podcast on Iron Gwazi, we humbly present this episode. (Busch Gardens, if you're listening, Shane is pretty good at this coaster marketing hype train thing.)

For Shane and Mike's Review of Iron Gwazi, visit: https://www.coaster101.com/2022/02/11/iron-gwazi-our-review-and-reactions/

Head to our Youtube Channel for some POV's, or click these links.
Reverse/Multi-Cam POV (Front Row): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jwog103X3uk
Reverse/Side-by-Side POV (Back Row): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PFFuTK6Y1J8

Iron Gwazi opens to the public at Busch Gardens Tampa on Friday, March 11. Passholder previews are currently on-going.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Breaking the Ice with Rob McNicholas, SeaWorld Orlando VP of Operations

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 07:00:00 -0500

Later this week, SeaWorld Orlando will officially open their sixth roller coaster, Ice Breaker. This multi-launch coaster from Premier Rides is the new centerpiece of an area previously headlined by Wild Arctic. With a height requirement of less than 54" - it gives SeaWorld Orlando it's first "tweener" roller coaster, slightly more intense than Super Grover's Box Car Derby, but not quite the level of high-octane intensity of the park's "Big Three" of Kraken, Mako, and Manta.

We're excited to be joined this week on the podcast by Rob McNicholas, a 22-year veteran of SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, to talk all things Ice Breaker. We talk about SeaWorld's commitment to families, what it was like seeing a roller coaster complete, but not operating for nearly two years, and how Ice Breaker may actually have more air time than Mako. (Yes, it's true!)

Ice Breaker opens to the public at SeaWorld Orlando on Friday, February 18. Passholder previews are currently on-going.

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

SEAdar Fair? Iron Gwazi? Vipere?

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 07:00:00 -0500

When your podcast drops on a Monday, there's often news that is certain to drop on a Tuesday. That was of course the case this week, as SeaWorld offered to buy Cedar Fair for a lot of money. In other SeaWorld Investment news, we talk Iron Gwazi's media day this week, and how a roller coaster may have crossed the northern border, never to be heard from again, we think?

Andrew is joined by an entire cast of characters from the Coaster101 team to talk this week in theme park news!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

TDR101 featuring The Drunk Riders

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0500

We're proud to present to you the crossover content that literally no one asked for. There are a lot of really good roller coaster podcasts out there, so we decided to combine two of the more average podcasts in an effort to create a decent episode.

We're joined by Marcus, Marc, and Mike of The Drunk Riders podcast to learn more about their show, their Coaster Club "Buzzed Bars" and its upcoming trips, as well as some general hilarity by way of listener questions. TDR has carved its own unique niche in theme park podcasting, and if nothing else, we're hoping their listeners tune in to us!

You can find The Drunk Riders anywhere podcasts are found, and on social media at @TheDrunkRiders

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Theme Park Photography with Upstop Media's Scott Schaffer and Jack Lathrop

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0500

A picture is worth a thousand words, and this podcast...well has a lot more than that. We're joined on the podcast this week by Scott Schaffer of Upstop Media, and past Coaster101 Photo Contest winner Jack Lathrop, maybe better known for his instagram handle @ThrillingMoment.

We talk the finer points of theme park photography, the recent partnership between Upstop Media and Thrilling Moments Photography, and some of the talented photogs' best and favorite work of their own and others. It's a fun episode, check it out!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Buses, Popcorn Buckets, and 2022 Coasters.

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 07:00:00 -0500

Happy New Year! For our first show of 2022, we cover a bit of everything, from Disney's Magic Express, Figment Popcorn Buckets, and the new-for-2022 coasters we're most excited to ride. It's a wild ride. Strap in!

Nick, Eric and Shane join Andrew to talk about the end of travel convenience from Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World, the end of sanity when it comes to dragon-shaped popcorn buckets, One Little Spork, Pantheon, Tumbili, Ice Breaker, Fireball, Lost Island, Wonder Woman and more!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Hard Rock Park Memories with Josh Liebman of Attraction Pros

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0500

Welcome back my friends to the podcast that never ends!

For our last podcast of 2021, we're reminiscing about a park that's no longer with us, and has a bit of a cult status in the enthusiast community - Hard Rock Park. We're joined by Attraction Pros' Podcast Co-Host Josh Liebman, who worked as an Operations Supervisor at the "Park That Rock Built" during its lone operating system in 2008.

We talk a bit about what it was like working at Hard Rock Park, attractions like Led Zeppelin: The Ride and Nights in White Satin: The Trip, the transformation to Freestyle Music Park, Rock Stars trashing trailers, kitchen island-sized banners, and how many energy drinks it took to cycle a roller coaster!

Theme Park University wrote a great multi-part article about the rise and fall of Hard Rock Park. Check out Part 1 here, and click through for the other parts!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

A Big Announcement at Kennywood

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0500

Last week, Kennywood made some big announcements relating to the park's 125th Anniversary, which takes place in 2023, in addition to some things we already knew. The Kangaroo is coming back! Phantom's Revenge is being painted "Petrifying Purple!" (but is it really more of an "aubergine?")

We're joined on the podcast this week by Palace Entertainment Director of Corporate Communications Nick Paradise to talk all things Kennywood, including a new queue mural at Jack Rabbit, a new beer garden, the expansion of Kennywood's operating season, and more! If you listen close enough, you'll even learn about Nick's favorite potato patch order!

For more information about Kennywood's upcoming improvements, click here!

You can connect with the show by hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

The Coaster101 Guide to Star Wars Galaxy's Edge

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 07:00:00 -0500

The time has come. After multiple postponements for COVID, Shane finally made it to Star Wars Galaxy's Edge. Of course, for a Star Wars nerd, it was like nirvana, and he wanted to talk about it!

We're joined on the podcast this week by fellow Star Wars aficionado Hunter Hernandez from Theme Park Hunting and the On The Hunt Podcast to discuss ALL things Star Wars and Galaxy's Edge. You have been warned. There are spoilers!

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

We're selling 2022 Calendars to benefit Give Kids The World! Head to https://www.coaster101.com/product/roller-coasters-2022-calendar/ to learn more!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Theme Park Nerd-dom with Broadway Actor Nik Walker

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0500

You never know where you'll find a true theme park enthusiast in the wild. While many people claim to be a "theme park nerd," rarely are they able to back up that claim with actual in-depth knowledge. Not the case with Broadway Actor Nik Walker (Hamilton, Ain't Too Proud). He. Knows. His. Stuff.

Nik, who had it written into his contract for Ain't Too Proud that he would miss rehearsal for the opening of Rise of the Resistance, joins Andrew and Shane this week to talk all things theme park, and being a theme park nerd. There's great discussions on Marvel, Jurassic Park, Star Wars, Disneyland Food, Canobie Lake Park, Touring Production travel and even a great Captain E.O. impression. Don't say we didn't warn you!

Nik is currently starting on Broadway as Otis Williams in Ain't Too Proud: The Life & Times of The Temptations. You can follow him on Twitter and Instagram at @Nikkywalks

Nik also hosts the Little Justice: Movies & Mayhem podcast on the Broadway Podcast Network.

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

IAAPA Minisode - Falcon's Beyond Global with Daryl White, VP of Global Licensing & Brand Development

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Happy IAAPA Week! You've made it to our final IAAPA interview, where we're joined by Daryl White of Falcon's Beyond Global.

Falcon's is always on the forefront of technological innovation in the industry, and with new creations like the Spectraverse and On!x Theater, they continue to pave the way for new technological progress in the amusement industry.

We also talk about the creation of Falcon's Beyond Global, and how it grew from a manufacturer relationship that was solidified on the IAAPA Show Floor!

For more information on Falcon's, visit their website at www.falconscreativegroup.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

IAAPA Minisode - Zamperla Coasters with Adam Sandy

Wed, 17 Nov 2021 09:00:00 -0500

Happy IAAPA Week! You've made it to our third of four interviews with companies exhibiting at IAAPA, and today, we're joined by Adam Sandy of Zamperla's Roller Coaster Division.

It's been a busy year for Zamperla with the announcement of the Double Heart Coaster, new roller coasters in the United States and in Asia, and they're not done! In 2022, they will debut a "Lift & Launch" family coaster at a park in North America, and on the show floor today, are announcing a never-before-released coaster concept! (This episode is coming out a little bit before the announcement, so if you want to be the first, we have a bit of an exclusive!)

You won't want to miss this!

For more information about Zamperla Coasters, be sure to follow them on Facebook & Instagram.

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

IAAPA Minisode - Give Kids The World with Steven Amos

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 08:00:00 -0500

Happy IAAPA Week! This is our second in a series of four interviews with companies exhibiting at IAAPA, and today, we're focused on a company with a booth at the expo, but they're not selling anything -- they're there to say "Thank You" to their industry partners: Give Kids The World

There are multiple charitable initiatives going on around the IAAPA Expo this week, including a 5K race and golf tournament. Not to mention, the President of Ripley's Believe it or Not is shaving his beard to add to the world's largest hairball, "Hoss," which will be located at Give Kids The World's IAAPA Booth. Ripley's will match $10,000 in donations made to GKTW at the Expo.

We also talk a little bit about Give Kids The World's holiday event - Night of a Million Lights - which made its debut in 2020, and is back for even more lights and excitement this year!

Stay Tuned for future interviews with Adam Sandy of Zamperla (Wednesday), and Falcon's Creative Group (Thursday!)

For more information on Give Kids The World, visit their website: www.gktw.org

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

IAAPA Minisode - Extreme Engineering with Phil Wilson

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 12:00:00 -0500

Happy IAAPA Week! This is our first in a series of four interviews with companies exhibiting at IAAPA, and we're starting with Extreme Engineering, who are debuting four new concepts at the 2021 IAAPA Expo.

We learn more about Extreme Engineering's recent Cloud Coasters in Vietnam and Qatar, and learn more about their projects on the horizon, before diving into the Cloud Coaster Storm, Surfin' Tsunami, SkyTag, and the Parkour Around adventure attraction.

Stay Tuned for future interviews with Give Kids The World (Tuesday), Zamperla (Wednesday), and Falcon's Creative Group (Thursday!)

For more information on Extreme Engineering, visit their website at www.extremeengineering.com

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Shane's Going to IAAPA...and he has Questions.

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 07:00:00 -0500

Happy IAAPA Week! We've got a shorter "regular" show this week, because the week is chock full of content coming to Coaster101.com, our social media feeds, and most importantly, your podcast feed! While we won't be on the show floor during the majority of the week of the Expo, C101 writer Shane is attending his first ever IAAPA expo, and had questions for Andrew, who attended the show in 2017 and 2019.

What should Shane expect? How's he going to feel? What can he do to prepare? Is he going to survive solely on BeaverTails and Dippin' Dots for a day? All this and more!

This is the first of five episodes that will drop in your feed this week surrounding the IAAPA Expo. Stay tuned for interviews with Extreme Engineering (Monday), Give Kids The World (Tuesday), Zamperla (Wednesday), and Falcon's Creative Group (Thursday!)

For an IAAPA Survival Guide, check out this article on Attraction Pros! http://attractionpros.com/iaapaguide/

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

All Things Schlitterbahn with Aaron Martinez

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 09:00:00 -0500

It's the second week of November. The first chill is in the air, so what better time to think warm thoughts of water parks than with a podcast devoted to Schlitterbahn Water Parks, arguably the water park mecca of the United States.

We're joined on the podcast this week by Aaron Martinez, Director of Marketing for Schlitterbahn Waterparks to talk all things Schlitterbahn, from the family-owned history, to how they haven't had a true "Cedar Fair" season yet, to improvements coming to the parks in 2022, to brisket-stuffed turkey legs and more!

For more information on Schlitterbahn, visit www.schlitterbahn.com!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Kids Say The Darndest Things About LEGOLAND New York

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0400

America's newest theme park, LEGOLAND New York, opened earlier this year, just north of New York City. With 25 attractions "Built for Kids," we thought of no better reviewer of North America's third LEGOLAND park than a pair of kids.

Andrew is joined on the podcast this week by Nick and Nick's two children, 7-year-old Henry and 4-year-old Nora. We talk about the details of LEGOLAND New York, and as could probably be expected when getting children involved...it goes off the rails in a hurry!

Be sure to check out Nick's reviews of LEGOLAND New York on Coaster101.com!
LEGO Factory Adventure: https://www.coaster101.com/2021/10/19/lego-factory-adventure-ride-complete-analysis/
LEGOLAND Hotel: https://www.coaster101.com/2021/10/21/why-the-legoland-new-york-hotel-is-my-familys-new-favorite-hotel/

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts! We've recently announced that 25% of the proceeds from all Teepublic shop purchases will go to Give Kids The World!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Behind The Scenes of SCarowinds, WinterFest and Carowinds' Live Entertainment with Ryan Allen

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0400

It's the most wonderful time of the year at Carowinds, right in the middle of SCarowinds, WinterFest around the corner, with a full season of live entertainment coming up in 2022. The man behind a lot of that entertainment is Carowinds' Live Entertainment Manager Ryan Allen.

This week, Ryan joins Andrew in an on-site interview at Carowinds where they talk behind-the-scenes and the inspirations for SCarowinds' newest mazes, what to expect at WinterFest, and how live shows are created! You definitely don't want to miss this!

Read Andrew's review of SCarowinds here: https://www.coaster101.com/2021/10/11/sunday-scaries-scarowinds-2021-reviewed/

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts! We've recently announced that 25% of the proceeds from all Teepublic shop purchases will go to Give Kids The World!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

The (Attraction) Replacements

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Primeval Whirl is in pieces. Shrek 4D is closing. There's scrim around Rock N Roller Coaster -- or at least there was. That's what tiktok says, anyway. Eventually, Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando are going to have to announce replacements for these rides.

This week on the podcast, Andrew, Shane and John speculate and provide some wishful thinking as to what these three attractions and areas could become. Will Disney retheme Dinosaur to Indiana Jones or Rock N Roller Coaster to A Goofy Movie Powerline? Will Universal finally build the roller coaster from Super Silly Fun Land? Tune in for more ideas!

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts! We've recently announced that 25% of the proceeds from all Teepublic shop purchases will go to Give Kids The World!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Inside Columbus Zoo's "Zombiezi Bay" Halloween Event with Anthony Sabo

Mon, 04 Oct 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Ohio's newest Halloween Event takes place at an interesting location -- a water park, attached to a zoo! Zombezi Bay takes over the Zoombiezi Bay Water Park at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium this October.

On the podcast this week, Andrew and Nick are joined by Anthony Sabo, Vice President, Waterpark Operations and Guest Services for the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium to learn more about Zombiezi Bay, what went into its creation and inception, his favorite haunts, and also more about their Brews and Bites event!

Check out more on Zombezi Bay by clicking here! and be sure to read Nick's Haunted House rankings!

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts! We've recently announced that 25% of the proceeds from all Teepublic shop purchases will go to Give Kids The World!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

2021 TPEG Alumni Community Design Competition Winners

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 06:00:00 -0400

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts! We've recently announced that 25% of the proceeds from all Teepublic shop purchases will go to Give Kids The World!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Inside Skyline Attractions with Jeff Pike and Tyler Mullins

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Skyline Attractions has it written into their business charter that they will create at least one new concept each year, and after seven years, they have no signs of slowing down. We're joined on the podcast this week by Jeff Pike, President & Co-Founder of Skyline Attractions, as well as Tyler Mullins, a design engineer for the company.

From their work with Great Coasters International on Titan Track and the new Infinity Flyer trains, to their impressive ride catalog with rides like Crazy Couch and SkyWarp, to their new concepts like the P'Sghetti Bowl, we cover it all with Jeff and Tyler. It might be the only podcast in the world that talks Bollywood Express in Dubai, Spy Kids 2, and Skyline Chili in the same episode!

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts! We've recently announced that 25% of the proceeds from all Teepublic shop purchases will go to Give Kids The World!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

This is How We Roll with Coaster Studios and Upstop Media

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 07:00:00 -0400

The history of Rocky Mountain Construction is one that many coaster enthuasists think that they know. But do you know the whole story? We're joined on the podcast this week by Taylor and Sarah from Coaster Studios and Scott from Upstop Media, to learn more about their new documentary project: This is How We Roll.

Ahead of the big Texas premiere at the end of the week, Taylor, Sarah and Scott talk about the origins of the documentary, the history of RMC from Fred Grubb's garage to Stunt Pilot at Silverwood, and oddly enough, riding dirt bikes with Alan Schilke.

Watch the trailer for This Is How We Roll here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JAiMu58ys74

Preorder the Documentary here: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/thisishowwerollmovie

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts! We've recently announced that 25% of the proceeds from all Teepublic shop purchases will go to Give Kids The World!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

John Goes to Disneyland and FINALLY Rides Rise of the Resistance

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0400

If you've been listening to the podcast for awhile, you'll remember the saga of John's inability to get a boarding pass during his Walt Disney World trip last fall. Well, during his recent trip to Disneyland, he got to ride Rise of the Resistance not once, but twice!

John and Andrew return to talk Rise of the Resistance, Spider-Man Webslingers, the coaster credits at Disneyland, and their thoughts on active vs. passive dark ride experiences!

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts! We've recently announced that 25% of the proceeds from all Teepublic shop purchases will go to Give Kids The World!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Hooray for (Universal) Hollywood!

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0400

When many people think of Universal theme parks, Orlando comes to mind. But Universal Studios Hollywood is able to hold its own, evolving over the years from a tram tour into a full blown theme park.

This week on the podcast, Andrew is joined by Shane, John, and Eric, who talk the highlights of the California theme park, including Secret Life of Pets, Jurassic World: The Ride, and everyone's favorite Seawar Spectacular: Waterworld!

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts! We've recently announced that 25% of the proceeds from all Teepublic shop purchases will go to Give Kids The World!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Chatting with Valleyfair Vice President/General Manager Raul Rehnborg

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Happy National Roller Coaster Day!

This week on the podcast, we're joined by Valleyfair Vice President/General Manger Raul Rehnborg. Raul is a 35-year theme park veteran, whose career has included stops at Knott's Berry Farm, Knott's Soak City (in Buena Park & San Diego), and California's Great America, before joining Valleyfair as VP/GM in 2018.

We talk about Raul's history in the industry, his Valleyfair favorites, the upcoming fall season and everything that makes Valleyfair one of the hidden gems in the Cedar Fair family.

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

For more information about Valleyfair, be sure to visit their website, and follow them on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram!

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts! We've recently announced that 25% of the proceeds from all Teepublic shop purchases will go to Give Kids The World!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Defiance (and much, much more!) with Glenwood Caverns General Manager Nancy Heard

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 15:00:00 -0400

Last week, we found out where Gerstlauer's "Mystery Coaster" for 2022 was going to be built -- Glenwood Caverns in Colorado, going by the name "Defiance." This week on the podcast, we're joined by Glenwood Caverns' General Manager Nancy Heard to learn, not only about Defiance, but a little more about America's only Mountaintop Amusement Park.

Did you know that Glenwood Caverns dates all the way back to 1895, or that they opened the first-ever Alpine Coaster in North America in 2005? Or that when you order at their new "Smokehouse" restaurant, they will quite literally pull the meat off the grill and put it on your plate? Curious about how the new roller coaster got its name? We've got you covered! If you listen close enough, you might even hear what's coming next for Glenwood Caverns after Defiance opens next spring!

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

For more information about Glenwood Caverns, be sure to visit their website, and follow them on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Be sure to read Arthur Levine's article from last week announcing the coaster!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

All The News Fit To Print

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 07:00:00 -0400

For a random week in July, there was A LOT of theme park news. While we're not typically a news-y show, we wanted to recap some of the biggest theme park stories of the week.

There were a pair of World's First Roller Coasters announced last week, one in Texas, and one in Central Florida. We talk about Kings Dominion's Map Coordinates. We talk the first roller coaster at Sea. It's a quick show, but it's a fun one this week!

We're also looking for writers and others to join the C101 team. Head to Coaster101.com/join for more information!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

A "Grand" Tour of Carnivale at Kings Dominion and Carowinds

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 07:00:00 -0400

We talk about Carowinds a lot, but when one of our podcast co-hosts visits the park for the first time, you know we've gotta hit the highlights! Shane was vacationing in Charlotte with his family, and not only did he meet Andrew at Carowinds, he also managed to snag a few hours at Kings Dominion on his way home. He hit the highlights! Fury 325, Copperhead Strike, Intimidator 305, Twisted Timbers, and Carowinds' Woodstock Express!

This week on the podcast, we're talking about the two park trips, how Shane's "Top 5" coaster list was deeply impacted during this trip, as well as other coaster highlights. We also talk Grand Carnivale at both parks. After debuting at Kings Dominion (along with three other parks) in 2019, Grand Carnivale has come to Carowinds, and we discuss the eats, the entertainment, and why consumption of bread cones doesn't necessarily lead to athletic endeavors.

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Be sure to follow Don on twitter at @DonHelbig and all of Kings Island's social channels: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Coaster(101)Stock with Don Helbig

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Believe us when we say "Not All Coaster Enthusiast Events Are Created Equal." Half of the Coaster101 team got a taste of one of the best enthusiast events in the country at Kings Island's Coasterstock on July 9-10. The weekend was filled with ERT, amazing Food, and incredible behind the scenes opportunities.

Andrew, Kyle and Nick are joined by Don Helbig, Digital Marketing Manager at Kings Island, who remains one of the driving forces behind the event, to talk the sixth edition of Coasterstock. Not only do they discuss that sweet, sweet, ERT and behind-the-scenes photo walkbacks, but they also discuss what makes Coasterstock special. (Hint: It's not either of those two things.)

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Be sure to follow Don on twitter at @DonHelbig and all of Kings Island's social channels: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Thinking Like A Theme Park Creative with Patrick Kling

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 07:00:00 -0400

We're all theme park fans, but there's a fine line between fan and theme park creative. Sometimes, as a fan, it's difficult to see why things are done the way they're done, but everything happens for a purpose.

This week, we're joined by Theme Park Creative Leader Patrick Kling, who inspired us with a recent LinkedIn post about what it took to think like a theme park designer when experiencing an attraction. Patrick approaches theme parks from multiple perspectives, including design, operations, and as a fan. His thoughts may surprise you!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Inside Cedar Point's Snake River Expedition with The Weber Group

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Cedar Point is celebrating their 150th Anniversary this season, and part of that major celebration is the addition of the Snake River Expedition, a spiritual successor to the park's former Paddleboat Excursion. This week on the podcast, we talk with two team members of The Weber Group, who helped bring the attraction to life.

We talk inspiration, creative processes, production animatronic animals and exploding buildings, and everything in between.

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram. We also have a website, if you're into that sort of thing: www.coaster101.com

Be sure to read our interview with the Weber Group's Adam McIntyre about Creating Byrd Farm at Carowinds for Copperhead Strike!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Coaster101 Goes to Orlando - Velocicoaster, SeaWorld, and Epcot!

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0400

This week on the podcast, Shane joins Andrew to discuss his recent trip to Orlando, celebrating his 21st birthday. During the trip, he visited Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando, and arguably the best park in Orlando for someone turning 21, EPCOT.

Listen for Shane's thoughts on Velocicoaster, his recounting of his 5-Hour wait for Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventures, Day at SeaWorld, and why he thinks Mission: Space is Walt Disney World's most underrated E-Ticket attraction. (Yes, actual words that were said.)

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Follow The Yellow Brick Road to Holiwood Nights

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0400

It was a big week for roller coasters last week. Velocicoaster and Jersey Devil opened to rave reviews, so obviously, we're talking about Holiwood Nights.

This week on the podcast, join Andrew and John as they talk about John's recent trip to Holiwood Nights, one of the premier coaster enthusiast events in the United States. We talk Holiday World's coasters, and coaster enthusiast events in general!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Georgia Parks On Our Minds

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Coaster101 went down to Georgia, they were looking for wood and steel. They were in a bind, credit counts way behind, and they were willin' to make a deal...or something like that.

This week on the podcast, Andrew chats with fellow C101 team members John, Kyle and Nick about their recent trip to the Peach state, visiting Lake Winnie, Six Flags Over Georgia, and Fun Spot Atlanta (as well as the Georgia Aquarium and at least one Waffle House.) Why is Twisted Cyclone great? Why is the Great American Scream Machine not so great? This and more, this week on the Coaster101 podcast!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Knott's Bear-y Tales and Knott's Berry Farm's 100th Anniversary Celebration

Mon, 31 May 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Recently, Eric had the opportunity to visit Knott's Berry Farm for a preview of their 100th anniversary celebration. With the food, fun, pomp and circumstance that comes with an anniversary, there's also a new ride opening at the park this season: Knott's Bearry Tales: Return to the Fair.

We recount Eric's visit to the park, and go in-depth on Knott's Bear-y Tales: Return to the Fair, and why we feel it could end up being far superior to its predecessor, Voyage to the Iron Reef.

Read more about Eric's trip to Knott's here!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

"Hidden Gem" Theme Parks

Mon, 24 May 2021 07:00:00 -0400

This week on the podcast, Shane recounts his recent trip to Lake Compounce, a park considered a hidden gem by many enthusiasts. Shane and Andrew then get into a discussion about several other "hidden gem" parks, including Conneaut Lake Park, Waldameer, The Great Escape, and Family Kingdom! If you like small parks, this week's episode is for you!

We also talk Kentucky Kingdom's new chaperone rule, because it seemed newsworthy. Are the teens going to cancel Kentucky Kingdom again? Are they going to cancel us? Listen and find out which side of the rules we sit on!

Read more about Shane's visit to Lake Compounce here!

Be sure to check out our Small Park Showcase articles on Family Kingdom, Conneaut Lake, and Waldameer!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

The TPEG Alumni Community Competition

Mon, 17 May 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Last year, while everyone was at home, the TPEG Alumni Community, led by a group of recent Ohio State alumni, held their first ever competition. While the world is getting back closer to normal, the TPEG Alumni Community is once again hosting a theme park design competition for college students and recent graduates.

This week on the podcast, we're joined by Tiffani DuScheid, Carissa Vance, and Kirsten Szydlowski of the TPEG Alumni Community to discuss their history with TPEG, this year's competition, and more!

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

For more information on the TPEG Alumni Community Competition, visit tpegalumnicommunity.weebly.com!

Be sure to read our interview with last year's competition winners, Team 31! The attention to detail in these projects is incredible!

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Virtual Park Mania Victory Parade and Season Preview with Carowinds

Mon, 10 May 2021 09:00:00 -0400

Earlier this year, Carowinds was the Champion of our 5th Annual "Park Mania Bracket Contest." When someone wins a title, they get a virtual victory parade! (Now that we've got a podcast, anyway.)

We're joined on this week's podcast by Carowinds' Digital Marketing Manager Patrick Wisniewski, who actually grew up as a fan of the park, to talk Park Mania, Carowinds 2021 Season, and his favorites at Carowinds! We also talk about the tweet that inspired the #GentleBreezeSquad hashtag!

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

You should also follow Carowinds social media accounts and visit the park's newly re-designed website! Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website

Click here to check out all of the Carowinds content on Coaster101.com!

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

The Cedar Fair Reopening Roundtable with Valleyfair, Kings Dominion and Schlitterbahn!

Mon, 03 May 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Stop us if you've heard this before. 2020 was a roller coaster of a year. The good news is, it's now 2021, and theme parks are getting ready to open again. All of Cedar Fair parks open later this month, and we're joined on the podcast this week by Valleyfair's Public Relations and Communications Manager, Kelsey Megard, Kings Dominion Public Relations Manager Maggie Sellers and Schlitterbahn's Director of Sales and Marketing, Aaron Martinez, to talk 2021!

We go in depth on a variety of topics, from the continued postponed reopenings of 2020, to how the Cedar Fair PR family grew as an individuals but also as a team, to how it feels to be reopening for a FUN 2021. (We also get into a discussion about Texas barbecue, oddly enough.)

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

You should also follow the social media accounts and visit the websites of the parks on this week's episode!
Valleyfair: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
Kings Dominion: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website
Schlitterbahn: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website

Check out this link for updated Safety Policies and Protocols for Cedar Fair Parks for all of 2021!

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Theme Park & Roller Coaster "Hot Takes," Part 2

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Last week on social media, we asked our audience the question "What is your most unpopular controversial theme park hot take?" Spoiler alert: The responses didn't disappoint. While there were too many to cover in one episode (or even multiple episodes), we decided to discuss a few of these hot takes on the Coaster101 Podcast. The takes were so hot that we had to break it up into two episodes!

This week on the podcast, join Andrew, Shane and John for Part 2 of our "Theme Park & Roller Coaster Hot Takes." We're going after some more topics, including Cedar Point roller coasters, B&M, Launch Coasters, Carowinds, Flight of Fear, and whether or not it's important to have more hobbies outside of roller coasters!

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Theme Park & Roller Coaster "Hot Takes," Part 1

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Last week on social media, we asked our audience the question "What is your most unpopular controversial theme park hot take?" Spoiler alert: The responses didn't disappoint. While there were too many to cover in one episode (or even multiple episodes), we decided to discuss a few of these hot takes on the Coaster101 Podcast. The takes were so hot that we had to break it up into two episodes!

This week on the podcast, join Andrew, Shane and John for Part 1 of our "Theme Park & Roller Coaster Hot Takes." We talk takes from Disney, several why [A] is better than [B], RMC, Lightning Rod, and more!

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Coaster101 Goes to Dollywood - Lightning Rod, Mystery Mine & More!

Mon, 12 Apr 2021 07:00:00 -0400

The 2021 Offseason was an interesting one at Dollywood. Not only did Lightning Rod become the first RMC coaster to get "RMC'd," but Mystery Mine received some track work as well. And what about that new Mountain Coaster Go-Kart contraption at Rowdy Bear Ridge? We cover it all on this week's episode of the Coaster101 Podcast.

Andrew is joined by C101 team members John, Kyle and Nick, who all visited Dollywood and the surrounding area attractions at different times over the past month. We talk about the changes to the park, the new attractions at Rowdy Bear, and we give some of our personal tips for Dollywood and Pigeon Forge!

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Relevant Links:
5 Reasons Why Kyle Thinks Thunderhead is Better than Lightning Rod
Mystery Mine 2021 Review
Lightning Rod New Track Review
Comprehensive Guide to the Mountain Coasters of the Smoky Mountains
Rowdy Bear Powered Coaster POV
Rowdy Bear Laser Gun Coaster POV

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Kings Island - A Ride Through Time With Author Evan Ponstingle

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 03:00:00 -0400

There are history books about many theme parks out there, but for some reason, there were none written about Kings Island. This was realized by Kings Island merchandise associate and high school student Evan Ponstingle when park guests asked if there were any books about the history of Kings Island. He decided to change that.

This week on the podcast, we interview Evan about his new book; Kings Island: A Ride Through Time. In his book, Evan tells the story of Kings Island through the people who were there from the beginning. Seriously, the bibliography for this book is one of the most impressive lists of people I've ever seen interviewed for a theme park book.

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Kings Island: A Ride Through Time will be released on April 15. You can preorder it at Rivershore Creative!

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Creating Theme Park Entertainment with Justin Mabry & Clay Bradshaw of JM Music Design

Mon, 29 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0400

This week on the podcast we're joined by Justin Mabry and Clay Bradshaw, the creative forces behind JM Music Design, a company who has helped produce shows like Mix It Up and Monster Stomp at Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Brew Beatz and Busker Jam at Carowinds.

We chat with the dynamic duo about the creation process of live theme park entertainment, how they got their start in the industry, the creation of the greatest roller coaster podcast theme song ever created, and we have an almost too-niche discussion about a regional drum circle.

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Longtime listeners will know that JMMD are the creators of our podcast's theme music. Be sure to check out their website at JMMusicDesign.com

The Future of Technology in the Attractions Industry with Falcon's Creative Group Vice President David Schaefer

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Falcon's Creative Group is a company who is frequently on the cutting-edge of the attractions industry. Known for their media for ride films like Curse of DarKastle and Battle for Eire at Busch Gardens Williamsburg, and other immersive themed experiences for National Geographic, Falcon's continues to innovate and push the limits of themed entertainment.

This week on the Coaster101 podcast, we're joined by Falcon's Creative Group Vice President David Schaefer to talk about Falcon's past, present and future work, the future of technology in the attractions industry. We also briefly touch on David's first job out of college, working for the Skee-ball corporation.

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

For more on Falcon's Creative Group and their work, be sure to visit www.falconscreativegroup.com

Rolling The Dice With Zane Jensch of the D&D-Ticket Podcast

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0400

Recently, we had the opportunity to connect with industry veteran and creative director in themed entertainment, Zane Jensch, about his new podcast, the D&D-Ticket. This "Dungeons and Dragons"-style boozy game night features theme park creatives coming up with a theme park attraction that will likely never get built.

We recently interviewed Zane on Coaster101.com, but there were so many good sound bytes that we decided to make the full interview a podcast episode. Listen to learn more about Zane's background in the industry, as well as the "science" of fun with the D&D-Ticket!

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Listen to the D&D Ticket Podcast at http://bit.ly/danddticket.

The Roller Coasters of Zamperla with Adam Sandy

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0500

When thinking about the "Power Players" in the roller coaster world, Zamperla isn't typically a name that most people think of first. It's Adam Sandy's goal to change that.

This week on the Coaster101 podcast, Andrew and Nick are joined by Adam to talk about his career as a "Roller Coaster Sales Guy" and some of the projects that Zamperla has up their collective sleeves in the coming months. Spoiler alert: There are plans for disruption. This isn't the kiddie coasters and Volare roller coaster division, any longer.

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Be sure to follow Zamperla on all forms of social media ( Facebook | Twitter | Instagram ), or check out their website at zamperla.com. You can also follow Adam on Instagram at @rollercoastersalesguy

Themed Experience TV with Patrick Kling, Andy Garfield, Rachel Nakamura and Cynthia Sharpe

Mon, 01 Mar 2021 07:00:00 -0500

This week on the Coaster101 podcast, we're joined by some of the team from the recently announced Themed Experience TV: Industry veterans Patrick Kling, Andy Garfield, Cynthia Sharpe, and TETV Producer Rachel Nakamura.

Learn more about how their "pandemic project" of live streaming has become a full blown online network from themed entertainment creatives, their plans for the future, and how you can get involved.

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Be sure to follow Themed Experience TV on all forms of social media ( Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube ), or check out their website at themedexptv.com

Grappling with Theme Park Fandom with Matt Rehwoldt & Shaul Guerrero

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0500

It's not every day that we get verified follows on Twitter. To be honest, a lot of notable people aren't ready to let their theme park fandom fly so openly. One of those such follows came from @DramaKingMatt, Matt Rehwoldt. Professional Wrestling fans may know Matt better from his timein WWE when he performed under the ring name of Aiden English.

Matt got interested in theme parks and roller coasters at the urging of his wife, Shaul Guerrero (yes, wrestling fans, that Guerrero family.) In this episode, we talk to both Matt and Shaul about their collective theme park fandom (they love Disney and Universal Parks!), the crossover between theme park and professional wrestling fans, professional wrestling, whiskey, and oddly enough, a story about "Stone Cold" Steve Austin wearing jorts and a poncho at Six Flags Great America.

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Be sure to follow Matt and Shaul on social media:
Twitter: Matt | Shaul
Instagram: Matt | Shaul | Wrestling With Whiskey
Twitch: Matt | Shaul
Wrestling With Whiskey on Youtube

Designing an Indoor Theme Park and More in Part 2 with Dave Cobb

Sun, 14 Feb 2021 19:00:00 -0500

This week we've got part 2 of our interview with veteran theme park designer Dave Cobb! In Part 1 we got into his work with Universal, and now we're moving on to his more recent projects, including a brief stint at Paramount, and then nearly 13 years at the Thinkwell Group. Maybe the biggest project in all of that was the design of Warner Bros World in Abu Dhabi, a giant indoor theme park.

We also get into some of Dave's favorite roller coasters and dark rides. Be sure to follow him on Twitter at @DaveCobb and you should absolutely watch his live stream from last year about the 20th anniversary of Men In Black.

As always, you can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

If you haven't yet, make sure you're subscribed to the podcast, and please give us a rating and review if you can, it really helps us out!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Themed Entertainment Veteran Dave Cobb, Part 1: Men In Black Alien Attack (and More)!

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 08:00:00 -0500

This week we're joined by the amazing Dave Cobb, a 30+ year veteran of the themed attraction design industry. Dave is probably best known among Theme Park lovers for being the Creative Director behind Men in Black: Alien Attack at Universal Studios Florida, which celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2020. This week we talk to Dave about his start in the industry, his early work on things like Back to the Future: The Ride, and how he became in charge of Men in Black: Alien Attack.

Be sure to follow Dave on Twitter at @DaveCobb and you should absolutely watch his live stream from last year about the 20th anniversary of Men In Black.

Dave will be back next week with us as well, to talk about the work he's done since Men in Black, including work with Paramount Parks and most recently being the Creative Director for the construction of Warner Bros Movie World in Abu Dhabi. Make sure you're subscribed to the podcast so you don't miss it!

As always, you can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Please give us a rating and review if you can, it really helps us out.

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

The Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando with Seth Kubersky

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 07:00:00 -0500

For the next few weeks, we're going to focus on interviews of people, both in and out of the industry, with the key linking factor that they have great stories to tell! We're back this week with another fantastic interview subject, Seth Kubersky, author of the Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando 2021!

Seth has more than 20 years experience in the theme park realm, and actually got his start in his career at Universal Orlando's former Ghostbusters show. Now in it's sixth edition, the Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando gives readers all of the ins-and-outs to plan the best possible Universal Orlando vacation. (And when we say all of them, we mean all of them.)

We're also giving away a copy of the most recent edition of the Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando. To enter for your chance to win: text "SETH" to 419-742-2101. It's that easy! We will select a winner at random, and will contact the winner on Monday, February 15! Thanks to Ulimi for our text code!

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Be sure you're following Seth on twitter at @Skubersky and the Unofficial Guides on twitter at @theUGseries. And if you want to skip the chance to win and buy your own copy of the Unofficial Guide to Universal Orlando, you can purchase it where ever books are sold!

Discussing Walt Disney with Lindsay Graham of the Business Movers Podcast

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0500

We're deep in the recesses of the regional park off-season, which means that news is few and far between, save for park opening dates and the occasional raptors being placed at VelociCoaster. For the next few weeks, we're going to focus on interviews of people, both in and out of the industry, with the key linking factor that they have great stories to tell!

First up, this week, John is joined by Lindsay Graham (not the Senator), host of the Business Movers podcast on the Wondery Podcast Network. As part of the first "season" of Business Movers, Graham presents a different side of Walt Disney, more focused on the business side of things. As theme park fans, we all think we know the story of Walt Disney. Little did we know, we didn't know the whole story.

You can connect with the show by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

You can listen to Business Movers here!

Our Favorite Dark Rides

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0500

While we love roller coasters, we also feel that Dark Rides are among the most underappreciated and underrated theme park experiences out there, and of course, we have a a long list of favorites!

This week, join Andrew, Shane and John as we talk about our favorite dark rides, from the simple classics of Disney parks, to more modern versions, and a good focus on interactive dark rides! (Is it fair to call yourself a galactic hero if Buzz Lightyear stops mid-ride and you're next to a 100,000 point target?)

What's your favorite dark ride? Let us know by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Posts/Videos mentioned in the podcast:

You've Got Questions, We've Got Answers

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0500

One thing we wanted to focus on with The Coaster101 Podcast in 2021 is increasing listener interaction. So, when no one really wanted to send us questions to read at the top of the show, we decided to turn it into a contest. Simple prompt: Ask us a question. Our favorite wins a prize!

This week, join Andrew, Nick, Shane and John as they tackle a wide variety of listener questions ranging from thought provoking to down-right absurd, and everything in between!

Help us out with more questions for next time by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

Coasters We're Excited For in 2021!

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 07:00:00 -0500

Happy New Year! Now that 2020 is behind us, it means its time to start riding some new-for-2021 rides!

This week, join Andrew, Shane, John and Nick as they discuss some of the most anticipated coasters in the United States, opening in the new year! Whether they were originally planned for last year, or announced last year and will open in 2021, we've got you covered with our picks for some of our favorites for 2021!

What'd we forget? Let us know by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

2020 Unwrapped, But Make It Roller Coasters

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0500

Should auld acquaintance be forgot and never brought to mind? For a majority of 2020, the answer to that question is "probably."

But for the Coaster101 team, 2020 was actually a fairly enjoyable year for theme parks and roller coasters, despite a lot of trips being postponed and cancelled.

This week, join Andrew, Shane, John and Nick as they recount their various 2020's worth of roller coasters and amusement parks in the year-end episode of the Coaster101 Podcast!

How was your year in theme parks? Let us know by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Design for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesign.com.

A "Taste" of the Season at Carowinds and Kings Dominion

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0500

Breaking News: Andrew visited a park in 2020 -- well, actually two of them. Join John and Andrew this week as we chat about Andrew's trips to Taste of the Season at Carowinds and Kings Dominion! We talk Tastes, Shows, Roller Coasters, and Christmas Lights. And realistically, what else will you listen to while traveling to your relatives' at the end of the week?

You can learn more about Andrew's trips to Taste of the season by texting CAROTASTE or KDTASTE or 419-742-2101.

Did you visit Taste of the Season or another holiday event? Let us know by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

The Definitive Podcast on B&M Inverts

Mon, 07 Dec 2020 07:00:00 -0500

This week, join Andrew, Shane and John as they discuss the finer intricacies of their favorite inverted coasters from Swiss Designers Bolliger & Mabillard? How many have they ridden? What's their favorite? Why doesn't every row have a "big boy" seat? Find out this and more!

What's your favorite B&M Invert? Let us know by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

It's officially the holiday gift giving season, and we're selling Calendars that benefit Give Kids The World Village! Find more at http://c101.co/21calendar. We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

Lightning Rod's New Track and Dollywood Events

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 06:00:00 -0500

Lightning Rod at Dollywood has had a rough operational history. The highly rated launched wooden coaster closed in September for the rest of the 2020 season. The rumors have been flying but Coaster101 got the scoop on what's going on with Lightning Rod. We also talk some of the recent events at Dollywood including Harvest Festival, Thrills in the Hills, and Smoky Mountain Christmas.

Questions or comments? Try emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

It's the holiday gift giving season, and we're selling Calendars that benefit Give Kids The World Village! Find more at http://c101.co/21calendar. We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

Things Coaster Enthusiasts Say, Defined

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 07:00:00 -0500

A large portion of our audience probably consider themselves "coaster enthusiasts," but for any "GP" who may be listening to this show, we tried to break down some common enthusiast lingo so you can tell your SBNO from your OTSR, and your LROTN from your FROTD.

Did we miss any terms? Help contribute to Part 2 by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

It's almost the holiday gift giving season, and we're selling Calendars that benefit Give Kids The World Village! Find more at http://c101.co/21calendar. We also have our own line of Coaster101 and coaster-inspired merchandise at http://c101.co/shirts!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

Universal Studios Beijing is Coming

Mon, 02 Nov 2020 07:00:00 -0500

Universal recently released a teaser video and a bunch of photos of their new park under construction outisde of Beijing China! We break down the different lands and all the new rides we're most excited about and most confused about (Waterworld is the answer to both of those questions). If you want more info check out our full post here: https://c101.co/2FJSb0e. You can also see all the all the construction pictures we reference at https://www.themeparx.com/universal-studios-beijing/

Tell us what part of Universal Beijing has you most excite by emailing us at podcast@coaster101.com or hitting us up on social media @Coaster101.

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

A Very Amusing Disney Coaster Discussion with Carlye Wisel

Mon, 26 Oct 2020 10:00:00 -0400

This week on the podcast we're joined by a very special guest: Theme Park journalist extraordinaire Carlye Wisel! Carlye has written about theme parks for publications as wide ranging as Travel & Leisure, Eater, and SyFy, and this past summer started her own podcast called Very Amusing with Carlye Wisel. If you've ever wanted to learn all kinds of things about how Disney and Universal theme parks work, it's the show for you.

We discuss the origins of Very Amusing, some of the best things Carlye's learned since starting it, what we should be looking forward to, and much more. Then we get into a long discussion of Disney's roller coasters!

Go subscribe to Very Amusing wherever you get podcasts, and find Carlye on social media everywhere at @carlyewisel. Also check out the interview we did with Carlye earlier this year: https://c101.co/39QcS3K

Then, after you do that, make sure you're subscribed to the Coaster101 podcast so you don't miss an episode, and give us a rating and review wherever you listen! You can also email your Disney roller coaster thoughts to podcast@coaster101.com, or find us on social media @Coaster101.

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

And thanks to Ulimi for providing our text codes, check them out at Ulimidoes.com. You can text CARLYE to 419-742-2101 to get to the interview she did with us!

Walt Disney World in the Time of Covid

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0400

Coaster101 founder John Stevenson just got back from a 4 day trip to Walt Disney World, the first time any of us have been to the resort since it reopened. So this week John joins us to talk about his experience at the four parks. We get into what was good, what was less good, and how to cope with failing to get a Rise of the Resistance Boarding group (Eric and Andrew tried not to rub it in too much that they have both ridden Rise of the Resistance).

We also realized there are a lot more discussions we need to have about Disney World, so expect more episodes about it in the future, and if you've got questions about Disney World or things you want us to discuss, email us at podcast@coaster101.com!

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

And one more thing, you'll notice we've added a new feature where you can text keywords to 419-742-2101 to get linked directly to articles on the site! Thanks to Ulimi for that, check them out at Ulimidoes.com.

Coaster101 Guide To: Quassy Amusement Park

Mon, 12 Oct 2020 08:00:00 -0400

We're going hyper regional on the podcast this week! Shane recently visited Quassy Amusement Park up in his neck of the woods, so on this episode Andrew gets a rundown of what Quassy is all about. We also answer a few listener questions.

If you're a Quassy fan let us know your favorite things about the park. And let us know what other small regional parks you want us to talk about more on the podcast! Email us at podcast@coaster101.com, or find us on social media @Coaster101.

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

VelociCoaster at Universal (Finally) Announced!

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 07:00:00 -0400

Universal officially announced the least unexpected new attraction ever, the Velocicoaster at Islands of Adventure. We discuss the new teaser and what we're excited about on the new ride (officially the Jurassic World VelociCoaster). Check out the full announcement details here: https://c101.co/2EFgQ5B

We also get into a brief bit of bonus news discussion, chatting about the new patent filed by B&M for an updated stand-up coaster restraint system (see https://c101.co/2GisHXD).

Tell us what you think of the official VelociCoaster announcement? Where do you guys rank it in your most anticipated coasters of 2021 list? Email us at podcast@coaster101.com, or find us on social media @Coaster101.

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

20 Years of Millennium Force

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 08:00:00 -0400

Earlier this summer Coaster101's Nick Weisenberger wrote an extensive article about the history of Millennium Force to celebrate the iconic roller coaster's 20th anniversary. Today on the podcast, Nick joins Eric to go into some of that history, explaining how the decision to build the ride came about, what company almost built it, and the key technological innovations of the ride. We also talk a little bit about whether Millennium Force holds up, and its legacy in the theme park industry. Be sure to check out the full article here: https://c101.co/34Ls0As

Let us know what you think of Millennium Force! Email podcast@coaster101.com, or find us on social media @Coaster101.

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode. And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

Our Biggest Theme Park Blindspots

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0400

This week we embarrass ourselves by revealing our biggest theme park blind spots. This includes both parks that we really should have visited by now but haven't as well as specific coasters we haven't checked off yet (for one reason or another).

Let us know what your biggest amusement industry blind spots are, or tell us how ashamed of us you are! Email podcast@coaster101.com, or find us on social media @Coaster101.

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

Theme Park Social Media Roundtable with Chris Foshee & Jefferson Richardson

Mon, 14 Sep 2020 08:00:00 -0400

This week on the Coaster101 podcast, we're joined by Jefferson Richardson of Kentucky Kingdom and Chris Foshee of Worlds of Fun, two of the most prolific theme park tweeters in the game. Learn more about how they got their starts in the industry, what goes through their mind when creating content like the world's first Strata Waterslide or a video completely comprised of Stock Video footage to sell a theme park, and their upcoming (we think?) rap album.

Have any follow up questions you want to ask them about, ideas for topics, or questions for us? Email podcast@coaster101.com, or find us on social media @Coaster101.

Also, be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode! And please give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps new listeners find us!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our theme song. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

Coaster101's Guide To Carowinds

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 07:00:00 -0400

This week on the Coaster101 Podcast we kickoff what we hope will be an ongoing series featuring close looks at the home parks of the Coaster101 team. We're starting with our resident Carowinds expert, Andrew Stilwell. We get into a bit of Carowinds history, as well as Andrew favorite rides, favorite foods, and tips for first time visitors. While Carowinds isn't open in 2020, there's lots of reasons to plan a 2021 trip, and hopefully this episode can help you do that!

If you're a Carowinds fan, let us know what your favorite things about the park that we missed are! Email podcast@coaster101.com, or find us on social media @Coaster101.

Also be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our music. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

Summer Park Trips Recap

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 08:00:00 -0400

This week Andrew and Eric are joined by Coaster101 founder John Stevenson. While our normal hosts have been stuck in lockdown and haven't been to any parks this summer, John's been to a bunch! So he's joining us to recap his visits to Dollywood, Kings Island, Kentucky Kingdom, and Six Flags St. Louis. We get some comparison of the parks safety procedures and crowds, and get into some ride talk (so it's not all bad).

Tell us about your park experiences this summer! Have you caught a mask in the face like John did? Email podcast@coaster101.com, or find us on social media @Coaster101.

Also be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our music. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

The Best And Worst Defunct Coasters

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 07:00:00 -0400

This week Andrew, Shane, and Eric are chatting defunct coasters. For all kinds of reasons roller coasters get closed down. Sometimes that's tragic, sometimes that's great, and sometimes we don't care at all. We talk about coasters we miss, coasters we wish we'd had a chance to ride, and coasters that we don't miss at all (or wouldn't mind seeing get removed).

Send your feedback to and ask us questions at podcast@coaster101.com, or find us on social media @Coaster101. And please please please subscribe and give us a rating and review wherever you listen, it helps us out a ton!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our music. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

The Best Old Coasters

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 08:00:00 -0400

With the pandemic keeping us from riding rides, we've been writing a lot about roller coaster history on the website. This week on the podcast, we dive into our recent list of the oldest roller coasters in every state (https://c101.co/2FzjNFb), and talk about some of our favorite rides from our list of the best operating roller coasters over 50 years old (https://c101.co/311oW0G).

Send any feedback to and ask us questions at podcast@coaster101.com, or find us on social media @Coaster101. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our music. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

Give Kids the World

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 08:00:00 -0400

This week, we’re talking about one of America’s most unique themed destinations, Give Kids The World. Andrew is joined by GKTW President Pamela Landwirth and Director of Development Steven Amos to learn more about the history of the Village, how they’re operating in times of COVID-19, and how we can all support GKTW through their annual “Coasting For Kids” event. For more information about Give Kids The World, be sure to visit their website at www.gktw.org.

Have podcast feedback or any questions for us? Send feedback to podcast@coaster101.com!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our music. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

Mount Rushmore of Theme Park Foods

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 08:00:00 -0400

This week we shift from discussing rides to our other favorite thing at theme parks: FOOD! We discuss both some theme park restaurant mash-ups we'd love to see, as well as our Mount Rushmores of theme park restaurants and dishes.

Let us know your favorite theme park eats at podcast@coaster101.com, or find us on social media @Coaster101. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our music. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

Overrated and Underrated Coasters

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 08:00:00 -0400

This week we're finally off the topic of coronavirus and park re-openings, and instead we're just chatting roller coasters. Eric, Andrew, and Shane get into a lengthy discussion about coasters that we think are overrated and underrated. Hopefully some of you are delighted that we praise your favorite coasters while talking our underrated rides! And almost definitely some of you will be pissed off (particularly at Andrew and Eric) when we talk our overrated coasters!

Send your angry feedback to podcast@coaster101.com, or find us on social media @Coaster101. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our music. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

Kennywood and a new for 2020 Dark Ride

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 09:00:00 -0400

This week Kyle is back on the show to talk about his visit to Kennywood for their re-opening, with thoughts on their new Dark Ride, Old Mill, and Jack Rabbit at 100 years old.

You can find more on the Old Mill at Coaster101.com, and find us on all social media platforms @Coaster101. Send any podcast feedback to podcast@coaster101.com, and be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our music. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

Hersheypark Opening

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 09:00:00 -0400

After discussing Candymonium last week, Kyle and Shane are back on to talk about their (re)opening day experience at Hersheypark. Learn about the new health safety measures, some other nice touchups Hershey did last offseason, and what Kyle and Shane's new favorite flat ride is!

For more on Hershey, check out our review of Candymonium and why Reese's Cupfusion is one of our favorite dark rides:
https://www.coaster101.com/2020/07/03/candymonium-media-preview/
https://www.coaster101.com/2020/07/07/4-reasons-why-reeses-cupfusion-is-our-new-favorite-dark-ride-shooter/

Find us on all social media platforms @Coaster101, send any podcast feedback to podcast@coaster101.com, and make sure to subscribe to the podcast so you don't miss an episode!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our music. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

Oriony-Monium

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 08:00:00 -0400

This week on the Coaster101 Podcast we've got reviews of TWO new roller coasters. First, Andrew and Eric are joined by Coaster101 writer Nick Weisenberger, who rode Orion at the First Rider Auction for the new giga coaster at Kings Island. Then, Kyle Lindner and Shane Joseph give their review of Candymonium, the new B&M hypercoaster now open at Hersheypark!

For more info, check out the our full review of Orion: https://www.coaster101.com/2020/07/02/orion-giga-coaster-drops-into-kings-island/
And our full review of Candymonium: https://www.coaster101.com/2020/07/03/candymonium-media-preview/

Find us on all social media platforms @Coaster101, and make sure to subscribe and review to the podcast so you don't miss an episode!

Thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our music. For more on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

2020 Coasters: What were we looking forward to, and will they open?

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 11:00:00 -0400

This week we're talking new for 2020 coasters! By that we mean we're talking the ones we were most excited about back when the world was normal. We also talk about whether we think parks that aren't open yet will open their 2020 rides, and whether they even should open them.

As always, make sure to subscribe and give us a rating and review wherever you're listening. Also, follow us all over social media @Coaster101, and visit Coaster101.com for more.

Big thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our music. For more information on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

Park Reopenings

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 07:00:00 -0400

This week we're talking about the COVID-19 pandemic and park closures, as well as park re-openings. We're also joined by Chris Foshee from Worlds of Fun, who talks about what they've been doing to get ready for their re-opening.

As always, make sure to subscribe and give us a rating and review wherever you're listening. Also, follow us all over social media @Coaster101, and visit Coaster101.com for more.

Big thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our music. For more information on them, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.

Happy 15th Birthday to Us!

Sat, 13 Jun 2020 20:00:00 -0400

Coaster101 is celebrating 15 years of news, interviews, reviews, attraction science and engineering breakdowns, and more.We're celebrating with a new Coaster101 podcast. In our inaugural episode we talk about some of our favorite attractions of the last 15 years.

Make sure to subscribe and give us a review, and follow us all over social media @Coaster101. And if you prefer us in the classic written form, visit Coaster101.com

Big thanks to JM Music Designs for providing our music. For more information, check out jmmusicdesigns.com.