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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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! 

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.

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.

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!

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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!

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

Follow Patrick on Twitter @PatrickSKling.

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.

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!

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 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.)

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.

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! 

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.

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!

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.

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!

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 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! 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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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

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!

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

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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! 

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.

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!

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.

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: 

• Secrets Behind Shanghai Disneyland Pirates of the Caribbean
• Horizons Recreated
• Nights In White Satin: The Trip from Sally Dark Rides
• Monstars of Rock POV
• Top Five Parts of Rise of the Resistance

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.