ACE - Ride With Us: Recent Episodes

American Coaster Enthusiasts

The official podcast of the American Coaster Enthusiasts!

Join us as we look back on Coaster Con 48, ACE’s annual convention that took members across New England for six unforgettable days of roller coasters, behind-the-scenes experiences, exclusive ERT, and plenty of memories.

From the opening festivities at Six Flags New England, to marathon rides on Boulder Dash at Lake Compounce, to bucket-list moments on Comet at Great Escape, we recap the highlights, funny stories, favorite experiences, and the people who made Coaster Con special.

Whether you attended Coaster Con 48 and want to relive the adventure or you’re curious about what makes ACE’s biggest annual event so unique, this episode is for you.

Timecodes:

1:08 – Meet ACE Members HaeKyung Thompson, Hannah Lee, Luke Reynolds, and Shawn Montano!

5:15 – Six Flags New England: Rainy Day Fun & Behind-the-Scenes Tours

10:05 – ACE Photo Contest & Capturing the Convention

15:09 – Midway Olympics & Volunteer Highlights

17:28 – ACE Business Meeting & Leadership Conversations

23:41 – Heading to Lake Compounce

25:03 – Boulder Dash, Wildcat & Lake Compounce Highlights

32:27 – The Scenic Train Ride (or Walk!) to Lunch

36:12 – The Legendary Lake Compounce ERT Snack Buffet

42:05 – Great Escape / Enchanted Parks Begins

46:02 – Comet, Bobcat Milestones & Favorite Rides

53:01 – SoloCon Community & Making Friends at Coaster Con

59:05 – Rubber Ducky Regatta Turns 10

1:03:18 – Enchanted Parks CEO James and Behind-the-Scenes Stories

1:14:58 – Final Thoughts & Why You Should Experience Coaster Con

Congrats to Spirit of ACE Award winner Mike Matcherz! Also congrats to the following:

Photo Contest Winners

1st – Jason Huber

2nd – John Devecka

3rd – Codi Thordorson

Video Contest Winners

1st - "Thank You" by Dalton Crider

Video link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1TiJ0eoLoq0BOjnJWXfmqlEZD0wk0riPe/view?usp=sharing

2nd - “You might be a coaster enthusiast” by Daniel Scott

Video link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NIJtqwz1ecfBNlDFQkGlo6TOFDdxyCXM/view?usp=sharing

3rd - “Six Flags State of Mind” by Eric Feichthaler Jr.

Video link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1x6dzKt1KTIMpWgd7A9LHLXABT6J4PG9L/view?usp=sharing

Ride With Us is the official podcast of American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) @ridewithus

Podcast Team

Host: Jessica Gardner @themeparkette

Producers: Doug Perry and Derek Perry

Edited by: Bob Randolph

Podcast Team: Bob Randolph, HaeKyung Thompson, Ben Weinrach, Gerik Gooch, Brichette Reid, Corey Wooten, Corey Brown, and Parker VanBelleghem.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org.

Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Saddle up for a recap of Roller Coaster Rodeo 2026 at Six Flags Fiesta Texas!

Host Jessica Gardner is joined by Nick and Kelly Carlos aka "The Quirky Coaster Couple" to share their coaster love story, from meeting at the park to getting engaged atop Dr. Diabolical’s Cliffhanger and eventually hosting a theme park wedding at Six Flags Fiesta Texas.

Then they break down everything that makes Roller Coaster Rodeo one of the most unique enthusiast events around, including exclusive ERT, lift hill climbs, behind-the-scenes tours, VIP perks, and tips for first-time attendees.

Whether you’re planning a future Rodeo trip or simply want to hear about one of the industry’s most beloved events, this episode is for you.

0:52 Meet the Quirky Coaster Couple

4:04 A roller coaster love story

21:59 How the Quirky Coaster Couple began

28:35 What is Roller Coaster Rodeo?

34:25 Day One

49:24 Day Two

1:22:17 Day Three

1:26:35 Tips for first-time attendees

1:32:24 What’s next for the Quirky Coaster Couple?

1:33:17 Final thoughts

Follow the Quirky Coaster Couple on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, and Threads: @quirkycoastercouple

Ride With Us is the official podcast of American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) @ridewithus

Podcast Team

Host: Jessica Gardner @themeparkette

Producers: Doug Perry and Derek Perry

Edited by: Bob Randolph

Podcast Team: Bob Randolph, Ben Weinrach, Gerik Gooch, Brichette Reid, Corey Wooten, Corey Brown, and Parker VanBelleghem

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Step inside the National Roller Coaster Museum with host Jessica Gardner as she takes listeners on an exclusive audio tour of one of the most unique collections of amusement industry history in the world. Joined by museum board members Kris Rowberry and Josh Brown, Jessica explores legendary coaster trains, historic artifacts, preservation efforts and the stories behind some of the industry's most beloved attractions. From the Matterhorn Bobsleds to Big Bad Wolf, Iron Wolf, Disaster Transport and more, this episode celebrates the rides, memories and enthusiasts helping preserve roller coaster history for future generations.

00:28 – Meet museum board members Kris Rowberry and Josh Brown and learn about the mission of the National Roller Coaster Museum

01:23 – How artifacts are acquired and why preservation matters

05:51 – The museum's master plan and future guest experience

06:45 – Disaster Transport, Avalanche Run and a massive piece of coaster history

08:00 – How the museum became a reality and the role of fan donations

10:47 – The Mean Streak Buzz Bar built from actual coaster materials

12:18 – Hidden coaster Easter eggs throughout the museum

13:06 – Inside the main exhibit hall: Kingda Ka, Montezooma's Revenge, Volcano, Disney artifacts and more

14:48 – The oldest coaster car in the collection: Lakeside Park's Derby Racer

15:15 – Revolution's 50th anniversary and restoration discussions and challenges

16:45 – Future expansion plans and the museum's 20,000-square-foot facility

18:14 – Texas Cyclone, Rollo Coaster, a modern GCI track display and the restoration of the Iron Wolf train

20:15 – Six Flags New Orleans artifacts and the impact of Hurricane Katrina

21:24 – Big Bad Wolf and an interactive restraint demonstration

22:20 – How listeners can support the National Roller Coaster Museum

Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/2WbPksGRGio?si=fZ--u2Vr8PcGyCcJ

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org.

Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Doug Perry and Derek Perry

Edited by Ben Weinrach and Derek Perry

Podcast Team: Bob Randolph, Gerik Gooch, Brichette Reid, Corey Wooten, Corey Brown and Parker VanBelleghem

ACE Spring Con may be in the rearview mirror, but Coaster Con 48 is right around the corner!

Host Jessica Gardner is joined by ACE Communications Director Derek Perry and Events Director Tim Baldwin to recap all the excitement from Spring Con and look ahead to ACE’s biggest event of the year.

From exclusive behind-the-scenes tours and unforgettable ERT sessions to unexpected moments (including a park-wide power outage), we revisit the highlights from Texas and Oklahoma, including visits to Six Flags Over Texas, Frontier City, and briefly discuss the National Roller Coaster Museum.

Then we shift gears and preview ACE Coaster Con 48 in New England and New York, covering what first-time attendees can expect, how ERT schedules are created, event traditions, insider tips, and why Coaster Con continues to be a can’t-miss experience for coaster enthusiasts.

Plus… a few early thoughts on Preservation Con.

Timecodes:

3:01 - Spring Con! Days 1 and 2 at Six Flags Over Texas
22:50 - Frontier City
35:26 - National Roller Coaster Museum
36:22 - Coaster Con 48 Preview
57:55 - Preservation Con sneak peek

Have a favorite Spring Con memory or heading to Coaster Con? Share your thoughts with us and join the conversation.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org.

Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Doug Perry and Derek Perry

Podcast Team: Bob Randolph, Ben Weinrach, Gerik Gooch, Brichette Reid, Corey Wooten, Corey Brown and Parker VanBelleghem

RideWithUs #ACE #AmericanCoasterEnthusiasts #CoasterCon #SpringCon #RollerCoasters #ThemeParks

Jessica Gardner sits down with Adam Sandy, Roller Coaster Sales and Marketing Director at Zamperla, to explore how modern roller coasters are designed, built, and evolving.

From the massive undertaking of Top Thrill 2 to the growing importance of accessibility in attractions, Adam shares a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to bring rides to life from concept to opening day.

They dive into how coaster projects are developed, the rise of family coasters and “broad appeal” attractions, why accessibility is becoming a major focus for parks, the technology behind interactive rides like WINGZ, the challenges of building record-breaking coasters, and the business side of theme parks that enthusiasts don’t always see. Plus, Adam shares career advice for aspiring industry professionals and what excites him most about the future of theme parks.

03:25 – How coasters are designed

05:50 – Accessibility in theme parks

12:07 – Top Thrill 2

13:53 – Innovation vs operations

21:46 – Family coaster trend

26:41 – Maintenance & after-sales reality

38:42 – Career advice

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org.

Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Doug Perry and Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Podcast Team: Ben Weinrach, Gerik Gooch, Brichette Reid, Corey Wooten, Corey Brown and Parker VanBelleghem

Ryan Eldredge, Regional Manager of Public Relations for the East Region at Six Flags Entertainment Corporation oversees communications for Six Flags Great Adventure and Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom.

In this revealing episode, he chats with Jessica about the evolving future of Six Flags Great Adventure, current developments at the park and the role of public relations in the theme park industry. Ryan also shares insights into working with the enthusiast community, managing major park announcements, and balancing historic park legacies with new investments.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts. Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Doug Perry and Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Podcast Team: Ben Weinrach, Gerik Gooch, Brichette Reid, Corey Wooten, Corey Brown and Parker VanBelleghem

The offseason is over and coaster season is back! The Ride With Us Podcast returns with a brand-new season and a brand-new original theme song created by The Perry Twins.

In this episode, host Jessica Gardner heads to both LEGOLAND Florida Resort and LEGOLAND California Resort to explore the new LEGO Galaxy themed lands at both parks.

The expansion introduces a new family launch coaster, Galacticoaster, developed by Merlin Magic Making and built by ART Engineering. Designed for younger riders and families, the coaster combines space-themed storytelling with a twisting layout and controlled spinning elements inspired by classic LEGO Space sets.

Jessica speaks with members of the team who helped bring the project to life, including Senior Project Manager Blake Boyter, Senior Project Manager Flora Liu and Project Manager Jordan Sloane. The episode features interviews and a walk-and-talk tour through the new land while exploring how designers, engineers, and storytellers worked together to create the experience.

Thanks for listening and helping kick off another coaster season with us. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate and share the podcast, and follow ACE on social media for updates from parks around the world.

04:00 - Senior Project Manager Blake Boyter11:40 - Senior Project Manager Flora Liu21:28 - Project Manager Jordan Sloane Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts. Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Doug Perry and Derek Perry

Editors: Ben Weinrach, Jessica Gardner and Derek Perry

Podcast Team: Bob Randolph, Gerik Gooch, Brichette Reid, Corey Wooten, Corey Brown and Parker VanBelleghem

On the 12 Days of Christmas, the Ride With Us Podcast gave to you… 12 interviews from IAAPA Expo! Our latest episode features Jessica Gardner and Rachel Hawkins talking with parks and manufacturers straight from the show floor, sharing what they showcased and what exciting new additions are coming in 2026. It’s the perfect holiday listen for coaster fans counting down to a thrilling new year. 2:33 - Dollywood16:24 - Six Flags Over Texas19:25 - Family Kingdom23:36 - Legoland28:12 - S&S Worldwide, Inc.32:25 - Sally Dark Rides38:37 - SeaWorld Orlando44:30 - Chance Rides 46:29 - Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters, Inc.51:22 - Zamperla Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts. Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Correspondent: Rachel Hawkins

As Six Flags America prepares to close its gates for the final time, the ACE Ride With Us Podcast takes a heartfelt look back at the park’s incredible legacy. Correspondent Bob Randolph chats with Brichette Reid and B. Derek Shaw to share stories, laughter and nostalgia about the park’s roller coasters, history and the community that grew around it.

You’ll hear:

Personal memories and fan-favorite rides from decades past

Reflections on the park’s evolution and its impact on coaster enthusiasts

How Six Flags America became a beloved gathering place for thrill seekers

Thoughts on celebrating its history during this final week of operation

Whether you grew up visiting the park, or you’re saying goodbye for the first time, this episode is a touching tribute to the thrills, friendships and memories that made Six Flags America unforgettable.

Take a stroll down memory lane and ride with us one last time.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Editor: Ben Weinrach

Correspondent: Gerik Gooch

Let’s look back at the 2025 ACE Preservation Conference, where members gathered in California for three unforgettable days celebrating the history and preservation of classic parks and roller coasters.

From the thrills of Six Flags Magic Mountain in Valencia to the marine magic of SeaWorld San Diego and seaside charm of Belmont Park, host Jessica Gardner and podcast producer, ACE Communications Director Derek Perry relive the highlights of the weekend.

Then, the audio from Tim Cole’s presentation on how he helped save Belmont Park and the Giant Dipper is shared. Learn more about the park’s history and his efforts by checking out his book Saving Belmont: An Up and Down Journey.

Don’t forget to check out the recap of the weekend on ACE’s Youtube page

1:32 - Six Flags Magic Mountain

7:33 - SeaWorld San Diego

10:40 - Belmont Park

13:11 - The ACE Centennial Award

15:55 - Tim Cole’s Presentation

17:25 - History of Belmont Park and Giant Dipper

25:22 - How Tim Cole got into roller coasters

27:50 - The Gigantic first ride

29:22 - The closure

34:50 - Getting involved

41:29 - The Save The Coaster Committee

49:00 - Top Gun

54:10 - August 1990 - The first test run

54:31 - Q&A and Tim’s message to ACE

58:19 - Preservation Conference 2026, Volunteer Appreciation

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Episode Editors: Bob Randolph, Ben Weinrach and Derek Perry

Correspondent: Gerik Gooch

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

In this special episode, join the team behind ACE’s latest documentary, The Legacy of Schwarzkopf, ahead of its official debut on YouTube. Go behind the scenes as Kris Rowberry, Nicholas Laschkewitsch, Scott Schaffer and Bob Randolph share exclusive insights into the making of the film, the stories that shaped it and what viewers can expect from this exciting exploration into the world of these classic roller coasters.

Don't miss this insider look before the documentary premieres!

youtube.com/ridewithace

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Correspondent: Gerik Gooch

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Coaster Con 47 Recap - Thrills Across the Midwest!

Coaster Con 47 rolled through the Midwest in June 2025, and it was a ride to remember! This six-day adventure took the American Coaster Enthusiasts to Six Flags Great America in Illinois, the charming Little Amerricka in Wisconsin and the iconic Indiana Beach.

Whether you missed out and want the inside scoop, or you were there and want to relive the magic, we’re breaking down all the highlights - from ERT and exclusive behind-the-scenes tours to unforgettable coaster moments and ACE camaraderie.

Grab your lanyard, strap in, and join host Jessica Gardner along with Johnny McWilliams, Corey Brown and Tori Sereika for a full recap of the fun that made Coaster Con 47 unforgettable.

1:35 - Get to know Johnny McWIlliams

4:14 Say hello to Corey Brown

10:00 Meet Tori Sereika

14:10 Day 1 - Registration and Six Flags Great America

27:14 Interview with Rachel Kendziora - Regional Public Relations Manager of Midwest Six Flags parks

51:30 Day 2 - BTS Experiences, IAAPA/S&S Presentation, Landmark plaque ceremony for American Eagle, Ninth Annual Rubber Ducky Regatta

1:09:47 Day 3 - ACE Video Contest, ACE Annual Business Meeting, Tori’s Auction win

1:18:50 Day 4 - Little Amerricka

1:34:27 Banquet at Great Wolf Lodge

1:36:20 Day 5 - Indiana Beach, Midway Olympics

1:46:00 Day 6 - All American Triple Loop open!

1:50:50 Post Con at Holiday World

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Correspondent: Gerik Gooch

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

We continue our deep dive into EPIC UNIVERSE, Universal's newest park that opened in Orlando, Florida on May 22, 2025.Host Jessica Gardner, along with correspondents Doug Perry, Gerik Gooch, returning guest Brichette Reid, and first-time guest Gregory Golub break down the must-see park's worlds, mind-blowing innovations, and everything you need to know. Whether you're trip-planning or just Celestian-curious, this two part episode is your front-row seat to the future of immersive entertainment.Worlds Featured in Part 2 - Dark Universe, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic, How To Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk 1:00 - Dark Universe23:24 - The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic1:06:40 - How To Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk1:23:00 - Is Epic Universe good for kids? 1:30:00 - Overall thoughts and Advice Podcast Episode TeamHost: Jessica GardnerProducers: Derek Perry and Doug PerryEditors: Bob Randolph and Derek PerryCorrespondent: Gerik GoochProduction Manager: Corey Wooten

Time to take a deep dive into EPIC UNIVERSE, Universal's newest park that opened in Orlando, Florida on May 22, 2025. Host Jessica Gardner, along with correspondents Doug Perry, Gerik Gooch, returning guest Brichette Reid, and first time guest Gregory Golub break down the must-see park's worlds, mind-blowing innovations, and everything you need to know. Whether you're trip-planning or just Celestian-curious, this two part episode is your front-row seat to the future of immersive entertainment.Worlds Featured in Part 1 - Celestial Park and Super Nintendo World. 2:30 - Meet Gregory Golub6:30 - How to get to Epic Universe/parking/entering the park19:00 - Celestial Park24:36 - Stardust Racers65:11 - Super Nintendo World75:00 - Mine Cart Madness Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editors: Bob Randolph and Derek Perry

Correspondent: Gerik Gooch

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

ACE Spring Con 2025 took place this year in Virginia! ACEers visited Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Kings Dominion. Host Jessica Gardner, Correspondent Gerik Gooch and ACE Assistant Regional Rep from North Central, HaeKyung Thompson were there and now they break the three fun-filled days down for us.

1:30 Meet HaeKyung Thompson!

7:45 Discussion of HaeKyung’s visit to the soon to be closed Six Flags America

12:39 Day One at Busch Gardens Williamsburg

20:30 The Big Bad Wolf: The Wolf’s Revenge

25:12 Interview with Conner Carr, Corporate Director of Rides and Engineering for United Parks & Resorts

36:47 Day Two at Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Kings Dominion

57:00 Day Three at Kings Dominion

62:54 Interview with Bridgette Bywater, VP and General Manager of Kings Dominion

75:38 Meetups and favorite moments from the weekend

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Correspondent: Gerik Gooch

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

This episode is all about ACE members marathoning roller coasters! Kalin Profitt talks about getting 10,000 rides on Iron Gwazi at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Mike Cameron shares the journey to 25,000 rides on Renegade at Valleyfair!

1:57 - Meet Kalin Profitt

34:23 - Meet Renegade Mike

www.youtube.com/watch?v=11yXGiRkpiY‌

www.valleyfair.com/blog/2024/june/renegade-mike-hits-25k-rides

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the 501(c)(3) non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editors: Bob Randolph

Correspondents: Gerik Gooch and John Davidson

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

At the 2025 Themed Entertainment Awards Gala, the THEA’s, the Buzz Price Life Achievement Award Recognizing a Lifetime of Distinguished Achievements was awarded to Rick Rothschild.

Our host Jessica Gardner was granted an impromptu sit-down with this legend who helped create memorable theme park attractions like Soarin’, The American Adventure, The Adventurers Club, Captain EO, Honey I Shrunk the Audience, and ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter. Hear about Rothschild’s storied career as a Walt Disney Imagineer and beyond.

2:30 - Meet Rick Rothschild and learn how he got his first job at Disney.

20:25 - Captain EO

26:57 - ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter

37:17 - Soarin’ and the FLY theatres

46:01 - Advice for working in the Themed Entertainment Industry

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editors: Bob Randolph

Correspondent: Gerik Gooch

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

In this celebration of Black History Month, Gerik Gooch moderates a roundtable with four fellow ACE members who are Blusiasts: Black enthusiasts. Airtime Myke, Duwena Tillman, James Mason and Alan Franklin share their stories, reveal their favorite parks, events & coasters and discuss the joy of finding community. They also discuss the history of Black Americans and the importance of promoting diversity, equity and inclusion.

In this Episode:

[1:02] Introductions

[7:13] Myke’s coaster journey: marathoning Drachen Fire at Busch Gardens Williamsburg

[17:06] James’s coaster journey: Magnum XL-200 at Cedar Point; Boblo Island; parents who rode and still ride

[25:08] Duwena’s coaster journey: American Eagle at Six Flags Great America; Walt Disney World; theme park enthusiasts; immersive worlds; Universal Studios Japan

[34:08] Alan’s coaster journey: mom’s bribe to ride Viper at Six Flags Magic Mountain; more parents who still ride

[42:54] Alan’s service with the Air National Guard; fighting California wildfires

[46:05] Duwena becomes an enthusiast; plus-size riders and “the walk of safety"; tears of joy for Iron Rattler; victory on TRON Lightcycle / Run

[53:04] HoliWood Nights; custom wristbands & music festival culture; Roller Coaster Rodeo; last rides on Kingda Ka

[59:39] ACE events: Lost Island; Stricker’s Grove; ACE Spring Conference; Schwarzkopf documentary; paper maps and atlases; media days, connections and more

[1:18:36] Desire for diversity; Myke assembles the Blusiasts

[1:28:41] "Roller coasters as art"; finding Black coaster family; examining our history; shoutout and welcome to our non-Black supporters; Blusiasts are a "great time!"

[1:40:34] Top coasters: Steel Vengeance, Fury 325, VelociCoaster, The Voyage, Intimidator 305, Flying Dinosaur, ArieForce One, Iron Gwazi, El Toro, X2, Stardust Racers, Zadra, Voltron Nevera and The Ride to Happiness

[1:58:09] Outro: where to find us on social media

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editors: Bob Randolph and Gerik Gooch

Correspondent and Show Notes: Gerik Gooch

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Jessica Gardner joins fellow members of the podcast team, Gerik Gooch, Derek Perry and Doug Perry for a discussion about upcoming coaster events, new roller coasters being built and theme parks opening in 2025.

In this episode, the team breaks down ACE’s 2025 international, regional and digital events, along with park-sponsored events and they highlight some of the roller coasters and theme parks opening this year in which they’re most excited about. This episode also features lots of laughs and a game you can participate in.

In this Episode:

[5:51] ACE events

[24:15] Regional ACE events

[33:08] Park-sponsored events

[1:09:17] North American 2025 Coasters

[1:18:37] Universal Epic Universe

[1:25:24] More new theme parks

[1:29:11] International 2025 coasters

[1:31:30] Looking ahead to 2026

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondents: John Davidson and Gerik Gooch

Author Bill Shea has written a charming book that tells a story that might be familiar to coaster enthusiasts! Billy's Grandpa Joe is taking him to his favorite amusement park but when Billy wakes up, he sees nothing but rain. Tension mounts – will Billy and Grandpa Joe's day be a washout or will Grandpa Joe save the day?

In this episode, correspondent Bob Randolph talks with Bill Shea about his story and the inspiration for this book. Join us for their heartwarming conversation about the book, the gift of grandparents, Bill's work with Autism Speaks and a whole lot more!

In this Episode:

[1:30] Meet Bill Shea

[8:30] Bill’s work with Autism Speaks

[14:43] Behind the book

[21:00] The road to getting published

Links

Get your copy of A Grandpa Joe Day

Autism Speaks

Playland Park

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondents: John Davidson and Gerik Gooch

The annual IAAPA Expo brings manufacturers, innovators and coaster enthusiasts to the Orlando area for a whirlwind of activity. This year’s expo included many exciting reveals, shocking announcements along with a convention hall packed full of everything a theme park might ever need.

Our intrepid podcast team wraps up their coverage of this year’s expo with the second episode in our series. Join the ACE podcast team: Jessica Gardner, Gerik Gooch, Lauryn Heller, Derek Perry and Doug Perry for a walk around the event in our two part series of IAAPA Expo coverage.

In this Episode:

[03:16] Interview with Lauren Weaver, Vice President of Marketing and Business Development at Sally Dark Rides about their new mini layout and more

[06:39] Morgan’s Wonderland Inclusive Institute announcement, more about this amazing, accessible park and their expanding inclusivity mission

[14:00] Announcement about the sale of ZDT’s Switchback coaster and interview with Michael Graham, Engineer and Principal at Gravity Group

[32:27] Interview with Darren Torr, President of Rocky Mountain Construction

[40:30] ACE booth at IAAPA Expo and The Legacy of Schwarzkopf movie screening at Fun Spot America Orlando

[51:00] Interview with Melissa Oviedo, CEO of the Themed Entertainment Association

Links

Sally Dark Rides

Morgan’s Wonderland Inclusive Institute

Dance Macabre

Kohl Gribble’s coaster model

Will More Gerstlauer Coasters Come To America?

The Legacy of Schwarzkopf documentary

ACE Honorary Member award given to Chris Kraftchick

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondents: John Davidson and Gerik Gooch

The annual IAAPA Expo brings manufacturers, innovators and coaster enthusiasts to the Orlando area for a whirlwind of activity. This year’s expo included many exciting reveals, shocking announcements along with a convention hall packed full of everything a theme park might ever need.

Our intrepid podcast team was on the show floor, taking in all of the excitement. Join the ACE podcast team: Jessica Gardner, Gerik Gooch, Derek Perry and Doug Perry for a walk around the expo in our two part series of IAAPA Expo coverage. Our special guest is ACE member Lauryn Heller, who shares her experience with ACE and perspective of attending IAAPA Expo for the first time.

In this Episode:

[03:05] Intro to the episode, meet Lauryn

[07:09] IAAPA Expo Day One! The train reveals, the press releases and the ways the social media team covers the day.

[28:14] Trever Dyer, Global Director of Sales and Marketing for S&S Worldwide walks through the new Twizzlers Twisted Gravity Screamin’ Swing at Hersheypark

[37:42] The VidantaWorld BON Luxury Park announcement included Ricardo Etges from Vekomoa discussing the Tecuani Beast coaster and teases many 2025 announcements!

Links

Hersheypark's Twizzlers Twisted Gravity - 2024 IAAPA Expo Official Gondola Unveil

Twizzlers Twisted Gravity

VidantaWorld

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondents: John Davidson and Gerik Gooch

ACE’s Preservation Conference marked the end of an amazing summer of conferences, regional events and informal meetups. We round out the summer with a mega episode that recaps 2024’s final national ACE event. Join us as correspondents/producers Derek and Doug Perry and co-host Jessica Gardner introduce our new correspondent Gerik Gooch to walk through this awesome weekend.

The Bertch family, owners of Lost Island Theme Park, surprised ACE by making a new coaster announcement during dinner! We can’t wait to see how Firerunner enhances an already-exciting park.

In this Episode:

[1:50] Meet new ACE Ride with Us correspondent Gerik Gooch!

[8:50] Gerik is part of the Blusiasts (Black Enthusiasts) group

[11:10] Preservation Con (aka Corn Con) introduces Lost Island Theme Park

[30:35] Moving on to Adventureland for day 2, Doug Perry introduces the ride highlights

[38:42] Adventureland’s Tornado became an ACE Roller Coaster Landmark

[40:57] Alex Payne, former Regional Public Relations Manager at Palace Entertainment, talks about the history of Adventureland

[1:01:00] Day 3, Worlds of Fun! Derek Perry shares some history of the park, the group walks through ERT and ride highlights

Check out the Preservation Conference videos on ACE’s YouTube channel!

Day 1: Lost Island

Day 2: Adventureland

Day 3: Worlds of Fun

ACE Roller Coaster Landmark: Tornado

Learn more about the Blusiast in their Facebook group or on Instagram.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondents: John Davidson and Gerik Gooch

Since Worlds of Fun opened in 1973, it has delighted visitors to the Kansas City, MO location ever since. It’s home to many historic rides and has a rich history. ACE members had a chance to visit the park during the 2024 Preservation Conference, enjoying behind-the-scenes experiences, great catered meals, ERT and some thorough presentations.

During the conference, Unofficial Worlds of Fun Historian Jennifer Lovesee-Mast shared a delightful presentation that highlighted the park’s history. Join us for a replay of this presentation plus a Q&A with the ACE members in the audience.

In this Episode:

[06:40] Unofficial Worlds of Fun Historian and worldsoffun.org founder Jennifer Lovesee-Mast shares the park’s history

[11:10] Shoutout to the original Von Roll skyride from the park’s opening days

[12:00] Moving the steamboat Cotton Blossom from California to Kansas City!

[19:00] Adding and subtracting rides over the years

[41:40] Questions and answers about the park

Learn more about Worlds of Fun

Visit worldsoffun.org to learn more about the park’s history or visit their Facebook page.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondent: John Davidson

Tim Baldwin, John Davidson, Doug Perry and Derek Perry talk about four fantastic new roller coasters to open in 2024. Learn all about Voltron Nevera at Europa Park, Fire In The Hole at Silver Dollar City, Iron Menace at Dorney Park and The Bobcat at Six Flags Great Escape.

In this Episode:

[3:00] Voltron Nevera

[22:22] Fire In The Hole

[33:21] Iron Menace

[42:32] The Bobcat

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondent: John Davidson

Onboard audio can add so much to an already exhilarating roller coaster experience. Join correspondent John Davidson for his conversation with Devin Flannery, Solutions Architect at Alcorn McBride Inc. They take a deep dive into Devin’s journey to the role and uncover some tricks of the trade along the way!

Check out Alcorn McBride events during IAAPA Expo 2024!

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondent: John Davidson

We're wrapping up our coverage of Coaster Con 46 with a recording of a very special night at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Members of the Canfield family share their experiences owning and running the park, the ACE Northern California Regional Rep team presents a plaque commemorating the Giant Dipper's maintenance team and the evening ended with a fantastic presentation by Chris Baynum of Baynum Solutions. This team of dedicated professionals paint roller coasters and attractions throughout the world.

The many presentations on this night held the attention of our in-person attendees, we're thrilled to share the experience with you.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondent: John Davidson

It's hard to believe that Coaster Con 46 has come to a close. Whether you attended the conference or followed along from home, our recap episode has something for you.

Join the podcast team for a lively discussion of the week's events. Derek Perry, Doug Perry, Corey Wooten, Liz Tan and Jessica Gardner walk through the highlights of our week at California's Great America, Six Flags Discovery Kingdom and Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.

In this Episode:

Pre-Con events at Happy Hollow and Gilroy Gardens

Tours during the event

Lift hill walks

Special events

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondent: John Davidson

Coaster Con 46 is finally happening! Hundreds of enthusiastic ACE members converged on Northern California for this epic event. Join our podcast team for a series of episodes about their experience.

This first episode takes you into a special historical presentation by Clayton Lawrence, Cedar Fair Corporate Creative Producer. He called into the enthusiastic group of ACE members while Coaster Con was at California’s Great America.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondent: John Davidson

We’re celebrating Father’s Day (and the start of Coaster Con) with a fun conversation for all coaster enthusiasts – two dads chatting about roller coasters, theme parks and their kids. Join correspondent John Davidson as he and Robert Moran talk about theme park road trips and what makes them so special.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondent: John Davidson

Creating an attraction is far more than installing track and building a station. Theming and ride design are easy to overlook, but they can add so much more to the experience. Correspondent Bob Randolph meets with Rick Backstrup, president of R&R Creative Amusement Designs, to shed new light on this key facet of the ride experience.

You may not be familiar with his name yet, but if you’re listening to our podcast, you’ve probably seen his work. His team has developed many themed attractions including elements like station design, queue lines, colors, names and more on legendary rides, including Viper (Six Flags Magic Mountain), Exterminator (Kennywood), Adventure Express (Kings Island), Merlin’s Mayhem (Dutch Wonderland) and so many more. One of their beloved attractions is Kings Island’s defunct Phantom Theater. Will that be making a comeback? Listen to find out!

In this Episode:

[1:30] Meet Rick

[8:50] R&R Creative’s unusual origin story

[15:15] How Phantom Theater came to be

[23:11] Creating backstories

[34:09] Working on the National Roller Coaster Museum

Buy Rick’s book! Adventures of a Theme Park Designer from Rivershore Press

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondents: John Davidson and Bryant Yeager

The ACE Spring Conference took place from May 17-19, 2024 at Kings Island in Ohio. ACE members from across the world joined in the fun, which included morning and evening ERT (Exclusive Ride Time), behind-the-scenes tours, informal takeovers, buffet meals and more.

We’ll finish our coverage of the event with an in-depth recap of the event and conference highlights. Some of Kings Island’s most famous visitors remain The Brady Bunch. Spring Conference included a screening of The Brady Bunch “Cincinnati Kids” episode that was filmed in the park. Listen in as The Gravity Group sings their own special version of The Brady Bunch theme song, then gather round for an interview with Chad Showalter, Director of Communications at Kings Island.

We wrap up with the June events calendar listing all the upcoming ACE events with registration still open as of the release date of this episode.

In this Episode:

[1:25] The podcast team recaps the Spring Conference experience

[56:03] The Gravity Group sings The Brady Bunch theme song

[1:05:14] Chad Showalter Interview

[1:19:32] Events Calendar

Listen to the Building a Backyard Coaster episode which is mentioned in this week's show here:

https://www.podbean.com/ew/pb-aaabs-1369eca

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Did you know anyone can join ACE? Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondents: John Davidson and Bryant Yeager

The ACE Spring Conference took place May 17-19, 2024 at Kings Island in Ohio. ACE members from across the region and across the country joined in the fun, which included morning and evening ERT, behind-the-scenes tours, informal takeovers, buffet meals and more.

The event also included some very special presentations from Dennis Speigel, founder and CEO of International Theme Park Services, Inc. Dennis shared his experience working on the 1977 movie Rollercoaster, Mike Koontz, Vice President and General Manager of Kings Island also presented and finally, ACE President Elizabeth Ringas and Events Director Steve Berto gave out some special awards.

Almost all of the podcast team was on hand to experience the fun and be part of this presentation. We’re thrilled to bring a recording of that presentation in this episode of our podcast.

In this Episode:

[1:42] Dennis Speigel shares the origins of and his role in creating the movie Rollercoaster

[19:43] Mike Koontz takes the stage and shares his theme park experience and great Kings Island stories

[49:55] Elizabeth Ringas and events director Steve Berto bring Chad Showalter to the stage and present several very special awards

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondents: John Davidson and Bryant Yeager

Join us for a pre Coaster Con roundup with your ACE Northern California Regional Rep team. The group has planned some great events around the big event. Listen in as Liz Tan, Robert Ingle, Paul Asente and Brian Christensen join podcast correspondent Bob Randolph for a conversation about the great parks, large and small, that comprise the region.

The group talks about Gilroy Gardens, Happy Hollow, Sonoma Train Town, Roaring Camp Railroad, and some of the other small parks and attractions that make this region special.

This episode also covers the two Pre-Con events on Saturday June 15, Morning Zoo at Happy Hollow, then Horticulture Hoopla at Gilroy Gardens in the afternoon.

We wrap this week’s episode up as correspondent Bob spoke with Michael Fulcher, Director of Marketing and Operations from Gilroy Gardens about the park’s history, unique rides and the very special trees that make the park unique.

Time is running out, registration for these events ends soon:

Coaster Con: 5/22
Happy Hollow: 5/24
Gilroy Gardens: 5/31

In this Episode:

[02:19] Meet the team, learn their favorite local and not-local rides

[05:38] What should I expect at Coaster Con?

[06:19] What is a must do?

[07:32] Where should I venture outside of Coaster Con?

[09:28] What do I need to pack?

[10:25] What’s the ride I MUST do at California’s Great America?

[11:08] Demon special announcement

[12:02] The NorCal team will be ready and willing to help

[15:47] The Midway Olympics

[16:10] Pre-Con Events

[18:13] What should first timers know?

[20:43] Last minute need to knows

Gilroy Gardens

[26:55] Meet Michael from Gilroy Gardens

[27:25] Location of Gilroy Gardens

[25:15] History of the park

[31:41] Monarch Gardens

[32:21] Rainbow Garden

[33:00] South County Backroads Garden

[34:44] The Circus Trees

[39:47] The Coasters

[42:46] Any other “secrets”?

https://roaringcamp.com/excursions/santa-cruz-beach-train-2

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondents: John Davidson and Bryant Yeager

The heart of ACE is driven by two separate and vital things: volunteers and donations. This episode celebrates two of our amazing volunteers, takes a deep dive into the dollars and concludes with a May Events Rundown.

First up, Communications Director Derek Perry chats with ACE Volunteer Ella Watylyk. Her journey started with the volunteer form on the ACE website; working with ACE has taken her all over, including to the IAAPA Expo, where she filmed a viral video during her first show. She’s also named a ride!

Money talks! ACE Treasurer and Executive Committee member Chris Tilsley joins Correspondent Bob Randolph to talk about the ways the organization is funded, how those funds are used and how members can contribute toward ACE’s mission of conservation, appreciation, knowledge and enjoyment of the classic wooden roller coaster and the contemporary steel roller coaster.

In this Episode:

[02:00] Meet Ella! Introducing her home park

[10:30] You can volunteer at any time with ACE – large or small, we have a role for you!

[13:00] Ella’s day job – content creator for Six Flags Great America

[23:39] Bob Randolph meets Chris Tilsley

[29:33] Rules around the way ACE handles money

[31:15] ACE’s mission as a non-profit

[45:40] The ACE archives (a treasure trove of park memorabilia!)

[51:30] May events rundown

Read Ella’s Article: PollyWorld: How a Children’s Film Dismantles Gender Stereotypes in Roller Coaster Culture, check out her IAAPA video and her epic rap video.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

This episode edited by Derek Perry

Podcast Volunteer Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers and Correspondents: Derek Perry and Doug Perry

Editor and Correspondent: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondents: John Davidson and Bryant Yeager

With Kings Island now open for the 2024 season, it’s a great time for Bob Randolph to check in with Chad Showalter, Director of Communications at Kings Island. Their discussion covers the topics enthusiasts want to know about – everything from Chad’s history with the park to Snoopy’s Soap Box Racers, updated theming and the future of the Vortex plot of land inside the park.

In this Episode:

[01:39] Get to know Chad Showalter

[06:58] What keeps Chad busy during the “offseason”?

[08:56] Where do the “big decisions” happen?

[10:17] Chad’s favorite place to eat in the park.

[12:01] Chad’s favorite ride in the park

[14:27] Updates on Planet Snoopy/Camp Snoopy

[18:05] Why did some rides get renames?

[19:55] ACE Spring Conference

[23:48] What’s coming up at the park?

[26:17] What’s going into the old Vortex plot of land?

[28:34] What to expect this season

Learn more about Kings Island and the upcoming season at visitkingsisland.com

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondents: Doug Perry, Bryant Yeager, John Davidson and Bob Randolph

As Women’s History Month comes to a close, join us as we highlight two women with one important thing in common: a love of roller coasters and theme parks.

First up is Brichette Reid, ACE member and founder of Women Love Coasters. She and co-host Jessica Gardner talk about her latest endeavors. Learn how the group came to be, discover upcoming events and find out how to meet up with the group in person!

Our second segment has correspondent Bryant Yeager’s interview with Kris Leach, ACE Cares Committee Coordinator. This important committee connects ACE members with a variety of fundraising and other volunteer events for Give Kids the World Village.

In this Episode:

[00:51] Introducing Brichette and Women Love Coasters

[12:10] How Women Love Coasters came to be

[32:40] Bryant Yeager interviews Kris Leach about ACE Cares

[37:33] Zamperla’s ride donations – they refabricated the rides to make them accessible!

[39:10] Gingerbread Run

[45:31] Coasting for Kids

Visit the Women Love Coasters Facebook group.

Learn more about Give Kids The World Village. Traveling to Orlando? Consider working a shift or two at Give Kids the World Village, participating in the Gingerbread Run or Coasting for Kids. Contact Kris directly for more ACE-specific information.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondents: Bryant Yeager, Doug Perry and John Davidson

Coaster enthusiasts and park visitors around the world know the name Cedar Point. This Sandusky, Ohio theme park has been thrilling visitors since 1870. Today, it’s the second-oldest amusement park in North America and is home to 68 rides, including 18 roller coasters and two ACE Roller Coaster Landmarks! Summer 2024 brings a new ride: Top Thrill 2, the world’s tallest and fastest triple-launch roller coaster. This updated launch coaster will feature three exhilarating launches and is sure to draw visitors from near and far. Ride With Us Editor and Announcer Bob Randolph joins Cedar Point’s Director of Communications Tony Clark to discuss social media, in-park wifi, CP Racing keychains, Fast Lane Plus, Winter Chill Out, and more.In this Episode:•[01:29] Meet Tony, discover the critical difference between soft serve and custard•[13:58] Cedar Point’s legendary holiday video •[25:40] Winter Chill Out ticket process•[32:50] The fun of interacting with visitors over social media •[44:57] Details about Top Thrill 2, including Fast Lane Plus information•[54:45] Upcoming food items, festivals, and celebrations in the park See the 2023 Cedar Point holiday video.Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents: •Having an impact on the future of ACE•Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences•Developing friendships in a small group•Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACEPodcast Volunteer Team •Host: Jessica Gardner •Producer: Derek Perry•Editor: Bob Randolph •Show Notes: Liz Tan•Production Manager: Corey Wooten•Correspondents: John Davidson, Bryant Yeager, and Doug Perry

As the seasonal parks start to emerge from their winter hibernation, it’s time to celebrate with some upcoming ACE events! This episode covers all of the events on the horizon with a special focus on Dollywood’s media day. Production Manager Corey Wooten joined ACE Secretary Jeff Niemiec for this event. Listen in as they chat about that special day, give us some Lightning Rod updates, and finish off their conversation with coverage of the new food items for this season!

Our episode continues with an ACE news roundup and finishes with the all-important ACE events rundown.

In this Episode:

[01:35] Corey Wooten talks to Jeff Niemiec during their day at Dollywood

[16:59] ACE News

[18:11] Events roundup

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondents: Doug Perry, Bryant Yeager and John Davidson

ACE Social Media Manager Doug Perry joins his twin brother, ACE Communications Director Derek Perry to recap some of the most exciting roller coaster and theme park news for the upcoming year! Between roller coaster opening dates, name changes, construction updates and new details being released, you'll get all the week's updates plus the latest information on the ACE Spring Conference.

In this Episode:

[01:30] Dorney Park [02:47] Snoopy's new coasters at Kings Island and Knott's Berry Farm [04:23] California parks [06:41] Cedar Point [07:25] Playland in Vancouver [08:47] Carowinds and Kings Dominion [10:59] Wooden coasters adding steel track [11:51] Hersheypark [12:58] Six Flags parks [13:52] Florida parks [18:18] UK parks [19:39] Australia Parks [21:03] Tokyo DisneySea [23:22] ACE Spring ConferenceShare your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondents: John Davidson, Doug Perry, Bryant Yeager

This episode was edited by Quinn Coleman

It’s almost Valentine’s Day, which realistically means one thing to coaster enthusiasts: theme park season is just around the corner! However, whether you’re celebrating this day or eagerly anticipating your next theme park adventure, this episode has something for everyone. Join us in exploring how “Love Is in the Air” in more ways than one.

First, correspondent Bryant Yeager chats with Rick Boss from Sky Elements Drones. You may remember us marveling at the world record-setting drone show during IAAPA Expo – a show that was brought to you by none other than Sky Elements. We’re so excited to have them on the show.

The love continues as our Production Manager and correspondent Corey Wooten introduces Sam Cooper, who has an Instagram channel called Mid Course Blues featuring his original series, “Speed Dating for Coasters.” In this highly entertaining series, two coasters are matched with one another, he compares their similarities and differences to explain how they'd be compatible as a couple. Sam also posts amazing shots of roller coasters, one of which won the ACE Photography Contest during Coaster Con 45!

In this Episode:

[01:56] Bryant Interviews Rick Boss from Sky Elements Drones

[28:07] Corey interviews Sam Cooper about his Instagram series “Speed Dating for Coasters”

Check out Speed Dating for Coasters and Sam’s amazing photos: https://www.instagram.com/mid.course.blues/

Watch Sky Elements’ video of the historic, epic, record-breaking drone show: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JxYNHt7mThg

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondents: John Davidson, Bryant Yeager, Doug Perry

It’s almost that time of year again – time for ACE elections and summer in the theme parks!

This episode covers both of these critical summertime topics. In our first segment, co-host Jessica Gardner talks with current ACE President Elizabeth Ringas about the upcoming elections.

We change tracks in the second segment and start looking toward summer as podcast correspondent Bryant Yeager shares his conversation with Dalton Fischer, Communications Manager for Silver Dollar City, during the recent ACE Winterfest event in San Antonio Texas.

Indoor coasters offer more than thrills – they often bring a story to life. Fire in the Hole at Silver Dollar City in Branson Missouri is no exception. The indoor coaster was built in-house in 1972; it’s often considered a cross between a dark ride and a roller coaster.

This well-loved attraction is getting some new life as Rocky Mountain Construction is rebuilding the ride. While coaster enthusiasts know RMC for their thrilling I-box track and wood/steel hybrid coasters, the company is also well-equipped to transform this classic ride into a modern experience.

In this Episode:

[01:45] Elizabeth Ringas talks about the ACE election process
[20:41] Dalton Fischer joins Bryant Yeager for their conversation about Silver Dollar City and the upcoming changes to Fire in the Hole

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Production Manager: Corey Wooten
Correspondents: Bryant Yeager and Doug Perry

LEGOLAND® Florida is a unique park with a rich history.

It began as Cypress Gardens and became LEGOLAND in 2011 after the original park closed. Home to three adorable hotels, a water park and the Peppa Pig theme park, this park has a lot to offer, including a swimming pool that was featured in the 1953 film Easy to Love!

Co-host Jessica Gardner met with Banks Lee, LEGOLAND Production and Marketing Support Specialist to learn more about the park and hear about some upcoming attractions.

In this Episode:

0:00 - Introduction to the podcast and LEGOLAND Florida
0:21 - Background on LEGOLAND Florida spokesperson Banks Lee
0:40 - History of LEGOLAND parks starting in 1968
1:17 - Significance of LEGOLAND Florida being located on the site of the former Cypress Gardens park
2:40 - Banks' career path and advice
3:09 - Details on the different areas within LEGOLAND Florida
5:32 - Popular attractions at LEGOLAND Florida
8:35 - Questions from listeners
9:34 - Recommendations for first attractions to visit
14:31 - Banks' favorite attractions to visit with his family
17:31 - The most popular attractions at LEGOLAND® Florida
18:37 - Jessica's Dragon Coaster milestone
20:50 - Explanation of the Ninjago property and ride
21:14 - Masters of Flight attraction in LEGO Movie World
23:15 - LEGOLAND's mini lands and structures
33:37 - Upcoming life-sized LEGO® builds
34:38 - Entertainment at LEGOLAND
38:30 - Peppa Pig Theme Park
43:00 - Food options in the park and the delicious Apple Fries
44:27 - LEGOLAND merchandise
47:45 - Trading LEGO and Minifigures
50:00 - LEGO Pop Badges
51:35 - The Infamous "Mr. Gold" Pop Badge
54:00 - LEGOLAND accommodations
58:30 - The future of LEGOLAND Florida Resort

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Production Manager: Corey Wooten
Correspondents: Bryant Yeager and Doug Perry

Coasting Around the World: Planning the 2024 ACE International Trip

ACE’s Journey to Central Europe is happening this July and Jessica Gardner talks to three of the members of the International Trip Committee who are planning this epic adventure. Cheri Armstrong, Vanessa Thomas and Jimmy Titko discuss everything you need to know about joining this trip or planning your own journey to parks in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and Poland!

For more information, please visit https://www.aceonline.org/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1778704

In this Episode:

[01:37] Meet the travel dream team

[05:21] Trip details

[23:12] Parks in the Netherlands and Belgium

[41:21] Parks in Germany

[59:50] Add-on parks in Poland

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondents: Bryant Yeager and Doug Perry

Now that 2023 is but a memory, your podcast team is pausing for a moment to recap many of the amazing ACE events that happened during the year. Podcast producer Derek Perry joins his brother/ACE social media manager Doug Perry for a rousing conversation about their adventures with ACE.

This episode also includes the all-important winter events roundup. Stay tuned to hear about all of the upcoming ACE events that are sure to break up the long, coaster-free winter.

In this Episode:

[01:33] 2023 events review (national, regional and digital)

[19:42] 2023’s new roller coaster highlights

[24:14] 2024 roller coaster construction update and upcoming events

[34:56] January event rundown

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondents: Bryant Yeager and Doug Perry

Vekoma Rides: Good Gravy, Tilt Coaster, Super Boomerang and More (IAAPA Expo)

The show floor has been wiped clean, but the memories of IAAPA Expo 2023 continue as co-host Jessica Gardner interviews the team from Vekoma.

Jessica talks with Ricardo Tonding Etges and Carin Davits about the new Good Gravy roller coaster at Holiday World and other upcoming/newly opened projects that many ACE members have already enjoyed. Jessica and the team take a tour of the Vekoma booth and get a close look at the tilt coaster train model.

We hope our continued coverage of the IAAPA Expo is helping to keep the winter months bearable. (See what we did there?)

In this Episode:

[1:42] Designing the Good Gravy roller coaster for Holiday World, a close look at the train on display
[06:33] Carin discusses the completed coasters that opened this summer (bonus mention of Big Bear Mountain and Rookie Racer!!)
[10:17] A tour of the tilt coaster model
[13:52] Super boomerang coming to Six Flags Great Adventure

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Host: Jessica Gardner
Producer: Derek Perry
Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Production Manager: Corey Wooten
Correspondents: Bryant Yeager and Doug Perry

IAAPA Expo 2023 was a whirlwind of activity for your podcast team. From setting up the ACE booth before the show began to doing interviews with anyone and everyone we could, we were on the show floor from start to finish. This episode brings several IAAPA Expo show floor conversations together with the teams who are bringing new life to the Comet coaster at Hersheypark.

Jessica Gardner does a carside chat from inside the new Comet train with Tom Rebbe and Laura Woodburn Krolczyk about the design and build process for these eye-catching new trains.

The series of conversations moves on to a chat with Quinn Bryner, Director of PR at Hersheypark. Our episode finishes with Tyler Hoffman and Mike Birardi from Illuminated Integration – all of these fantastic conversations add up to a detailed glimpse into what Hersheypark will look like next summer.

In this Episode:

[02:48] Tom Rebbe and Laura Woodburn Krolczyk “live” from the Comet train
[07:51] Quinn Bryner Director of PR at Hersheypark
[10:38] Tyler Hoffman and Mike Birardi

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Correspondents: Bryant Yeager and Doug Perry

Legacy of Schwarzkopf – Documentary Team Highlights

Fellow ACE members and documentarians Robert Ingle, Kris Rowberry, Nicholas Laschkewitsch, and Scott Schaffer are currently filming the next ACE documentary, exploring the multitude of roller coasters and flat rides worldwide created by the legendary Anton Schwarzkopf. The team has been tirelessly capturing these rides and coasters in action, traveling across the globe this year to bring the story to life for coaster enthusiasts everywhere.

A familiar voice joins us once again. Listen in as one of the original Ride With Us Podcast co-hosts, Kris Rowberry, and the team discuss what they've been up to since our last conversation. (Spoiler: They've been BUSY!)

In this Episode:

[02:23] Filming at Six Flags Great America and a comparison between that park and California's Great America.
[06:31] The team moves to Lagoon Park in Farmington, Utah.
[10:30] Nicholas visited Worlds of Fun, where Zambezi Zinger pays homage to Schwarzkopf in many ways.
[13:30] The team heads to Atlanta, visiting Six Flags Over Georgia, Fun Spot America Atlanta, and the North Georgia State Fair.
[24:00] On to Germany for Oktoberfest.

Legacy of Schwarzkopf: Trailer #1

Legacy of Schwarzkopf: Trailer #2

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers various ways to share your talents by:

Making an impact on the future of ACE.
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences.
Developing friendships in a small group.
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE.

Podcast Volunteer Team:

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and ACE's Documentary Team
Producer: Derek Perry
Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Production Manager: Corey Wooten
Correspondents: Bryant Yeager and Doug Perry

The ACE Ride With Us Podcast team had a busy week at the IAAPA Expo. We’ve had a great time walking the show floor, meeting theme park industry partners and spending time together. Bringing our listeners along for the ride has been a real treat for your podcast team.

Our final broadcast from the event brings the event to a close. Join co-host Jessica Gardner as she talks with ACE Communications Director Derek Perry about their immersive experience at the expo.

In this Episode:

[02:30] Check out ACE’s YouTube channel for our interview with S&S
[06:05] Derek’s interview with Adam Sandy from Zamperla (live from the Top Thrill 2 train!)
[08:00] Derek talks about ACE's interview with 3DX and their work on Holiday World’s new Good Gravy! coaster
[12:20] Matt Ferguson, Chief Innovation Officer at Storyland Studios talks about the two new parks they’re opening
[23:02] Interview with Jake Kilcup from Rocky Mountain Construction
[32:44] The episode wraps up with ACE President Elizabeth Ringas

ACE’s YouTube channel has all of the awesome video coverage from the week (and a lot more).

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and Derek Perry

Producer: Derek Perry

Editors: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Join our host Jessica Gardner as she recaps Days 2 and 3 of the exciting IAAPA Expo 2023 in Orlando, Florida, with guest co-hosts Doug Perry, ACE’s Social Media Manager, and Corey Wooten, our podcast’s Production Manager. This episode also features two (2) engaging interviews with Dan Leavelle, Site/Build Engineer at Skyline Attractions, and Jeffrey Siebert, Park President at Six Flags Fiesta Texas. In this episode: •[01:25] Day 2 Recap: Sally Dark Rides' announcement about a new SpongeBob attraction at Land of Legends Park in Turkey. •[03:58] Triotech’s SuperFly & Primordial Presentation: Corey shares insights on Triotech's announcement of SuperFly, an innovative combination of a dynamic simulator and flying theater. Doug gives his perspective of their intriguing presentation about Primordial at Lagoon Park.•[05:49] BoldMove Nation: Jessica discusses her interview with this new dark ride company, highlighting their Brass Ring award win and upcoming social media feature with ACE.•[06:22] ACE’s Support and Social Media Presence: Discussions on ACE’s role and activities at the expo. Highlighting the ACE booth's offerings and interactions with industry professionals.•[07:06] Gravity Group’s Honorary ACE Membership: Doug Perry discusses ACE presenting the Gravity Group with an honorary membership. Insights from the interview with Hunter Lawrence from the Gravity Group.•[08:03] Sky Elements Drone Show: Exciting recount of the Sky Elements drone show and its Guinness World Records achievements.•[11:38] Day 3 Exploration: Jessica’s experiences exploring different booths, including SBF/Visa’s new coaster. Insights into LAI Games Interactive’s new offerings.•[13:50] L3DFX Booth Discovery: Doug’s encounter with the L3DFX booth, detailing their award-winning design and innovative creations.•[19:04] Daniel Leavelle from Skyline Attractions: Daniel shares his journey and the exciting developments at Skyline Attractions. Discussion on Skyline’s award-winning projects and future aspirations.•[27:36] Jeffrey Siebert, Six Flags Fiesta Texas: Insights from Six Flags Fiesta Texas' Park President, Jeffrey Siebert, on the park’s developments and future plans.•[35:05] Closing Thoughts: Final reflections from Doug, Corey, and Jessica on the IAAPA Expo experience.Did you know that ACE members can attend the IAAPA Expo? Sign up to work one or more shifts during the show and you’ll get access to the entire show. Watch your email for more information about working at next year’s show.Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by: •Having an impact on the future of ACE•Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences•Developing friendships in a small group•Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACEPodcast Volunteer Team Hosts: Jessica Gardner, Doug Perry, and Corey Wooten Producer: Derek Perry  Correspondent: Bryant Yeager  Editors: Bob Randolph  Show Notes: Liz Tan  Production Manager: Corey Wooten

As many seasonal parks begin their winter hibernation, the theme park community is keeping busy this month with the IAAPA* Expo in Orlando. Most members of our intrepid podcast team will be at the Expo, ready to share highlights with you.

We will be recording often, so stay tuned for exciting announcements from parks and manufacturers and a taste of the excitement from the show floor!

In this episode, co-host Jessica Gardner chats with our guest co-host and Podcast Production Manager, Corey Wooten. They share their thoughts and excitement from the first day of the Expo, including some featured interviews with top professionals in the attractions industry.

Our featured guests include Tony Clark, Director of Communications at Cedar Point; Lauren Crosby, Director of Entertainment and Events, and Leah Koch-Blumhardt, Director of Communications at Holiday World; Brad Thomas, Park President at Silver Dollar City; and Preston Perkes, Executive Director of Administration at S&S Worldwide.

Timestamps:

[03:32] Cedar Point/Zamperla - Top Thrill 2 (feat. Tony Clark)
[11:30] Hersheypark/Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters Inc. - Comet
[14:32] Sally Dark Rides - Spongebob's Crazy Carnival Ride
[15:35] Busch Gardens/Premier Rides/ACE - Loch Ness Monster Revamp at Busch Gardens Williamsburg
[18:01] SeaWorld/B&M - Penguin Trek (the first first B&M family coaster built in the United States)
[20:42] Holiday World/Vekoma - Good Gravy (feat. Lauren Crosby and Leah Koch-Blumhardt)
[32:15] Silver Dollar City/RMC - Fire in the Hole (feat. Brad Thomas)
[41:43] S&S Worldwide/SEVEN (feat. Preston Perkes)

Did you know that ACE members/volunteers can attend the IAAPA Expo? If you’re chosen to work one or more shifts during the show, you’ll get access to the entire show. Watch your email for more information about working at next year’s show.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and Corey Wooten (Guest)
Producer: Derek Perry
Correspondent: Bryant Yeager
Editors: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Production Manager: Corey Wooten

Footnotes

IAAPA: International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions

As our podcast team prepares to head to Orlando for the IAAPA Expo, co-host John Davidson took a moment to look back on the IAAPA Europe Expo in Amsterdam that took place this September.

ACE Europe Regional Representative Jo Pools joins co-host John Davidson for a lively discussion of European theme parks, upcoming ACE Europe events and the Expo.

In this episode:

[01:52] IAPPA Europe is in the books, Jo talks about some European rides and parks
[08:15] More about the Expo
[16:18] All of the major manufacturers were at the show
[22:00] Less VR on the show floor, more pinball machines and arcade games are there instead
[25:37] The people you meet at the Expos are the best part
[27:50] Jo’s role on the International Planning Committee (hints about next year’s ACE Europe trip)

Join ACE Europe’s events at: https://jointheride.eu/

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team
Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editors: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Production Manager: Corey Wooten

A chill is in the air these days and many beloved seasonal theme parks are now closed for the season. While we’re hunkering down for the winter, it’s a good time to remember some new rides that opened this summer with this First Drop.

This episode takes a close look at some new coasters from around the world. We start with ACE member Luke Reynolds joining co-host John Davidson to share his ride on Batman Gotham City Escape at Parque Warner Madrid, a Warner Brothers park. We continue as co-host Jessica Gardner chats with our very own "ACE - Ride With Us" Podcast Production Manager, Corey Wooten, about his recent Europe trip, visiting Parc Astérix in Plailly, France and riding their new launch coaster, Toutatis. We finish up as ACE Communications Director, Derek Perry, and Social Media Manager, Doug Perry, interview ACE member Raffi Kilejian about Primordial at Lagoon Park.

These conversations cover everything about each coaster, from queue theming to the first drop!

In this episode:

[01:00] Meet Luke, discover his home park
[02:00] Visiting Parque Warner Madrid, Luke’s his experience on Batman Gotham City Escape
[12:46] Meet Corey, discover his home park
[16:18] Corey’s epic European theme park trip and visit to Parc Astérix
[43:32] Derek and Doug Perry talk to ACE member Raffi Kilejian about Primordial at Lagoon Park and the ACE Fall Conference
[49:07] Primordial spoiler alert! Stop listening here if you’d like to avoid spoilers.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Correspondent: Bryant Yeager
Editors: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Production Manager/Show Guest: Corey Wooten

Credits (Cover Images)

Toutatis: Samy Debbabi
Gotham City Escape: Intamin/Unknown
Primordial: Aimee Carver

Coaster enthusiasts may know Dorney Park as a charming trolley park that grew from a salmon hatchery in the 1860’s into a park, then into a theme park. Today, it’s known as the home of historic rides like the Whip, some relocated rides from other parks (shout out to Demon Drop and Possessed!) as well as Thunderhawk – an ACE Landmark Coaster plus many other crowd-pleasing attractions. Though Dorney Park has its share of historic rides and thrill rides, it hadn’t had a brand new large-scale attraction in quite some time.

Until now! Iron Menace is a thrilling new B&M dive coaster that’s being built in the location where another relocated ride, the Stinger, used to be. This August announcement took the coaster enthusiast community by storm and created a lot of buzz around Dorney Park.

This week, correspondent Bryant Yeager talks to Ryan Eldredge, PR and communications director of Dorney Park about this exciting new attraction and many other great changes coming to the park.

In this episode:

[01:00] Meet Ryan, learn how he found his way from government work to Dorney Park

[05:10] The team explored different options for the space, the dive coaster fit the themed steelyard vision and the space

[12:18] The ride will include first of their kind ride elements, the Zephyr will go through the station!

[15:49] The extra 5 degrees of drop and no mid-course brake run make Iron Menace unique

[19:10] Additional 2024 projects (including food updates) and 2024 opening date

[20:51] Thunderhawk’s 100th birthday is coming, look for ways to celebrate

Follow Dorney Park on Facebook to see construction progress and other announcements.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson

Correspondent: Bryant Yeager

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Derek Perry

Show Notes: Liz Tan, huge fan of Dorney Park, the Zephyr and Demon Drop

Production Manager: Corey Wooten

This week’s episode covers two important topics: the Phoenix Phall Phunfest at Knoebels Amusement Park and the ACE Events Rundown for November 2023.

The first segment has co-host John Davidson chatting with ACE Publications Director and Phoenix Phall Phunfest attendee Lee Ann Draud. It sounds like quite an event, with great food, ERT on the Flying Turns and the Halloween-themed antique cars, plus a Fascination tournament.

We wrap up the show as co-host Jessica Gardner shares ACE News highlights and the ACE November Events rundown.

In this episode:

[01:30] Meet Lee Ann, she reads and edits almost everything that ACE writes from RollerCoaster! magazine to ACE News, ACE 360 and everything in between.
[04:30] What is Knoebels? A brief introduction.
[08:12] Holding an event with a $5 admission price in an ungated park. That’s right! $5!
[13:10] ERT on Flying Turns (what an opportunity!!)
[17:52] Light lunch – Knoebels style
[25:30] ACE News update and November events rundown

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editors: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Production Manager: Corey Wooten
Cover Art Image: Anthony Saporito

Over 200 ACE members from around the world gathered in Utah for the 2023 ACE Fall Conference.

The group first visited Lagoon Park (We talked about Lagoon Park in a recent episode) for 2 fun-filled days of ERT, ACE Landmark Coaster rides, fall events and of course, some fabulous food. The final event was a visit to S&S Worldwide, where some lucky attendees got a chance to ride the prototype Axis coaster.

Join ACE Membership Director Joseph Ciza for a recap of the event. Whether you attended the event and want to relive the amazing experience or didn’t have a chance to attend, Joseph’s recap will bring the experience to you. He also talks about the Executive Committee meeting that was held just after the conference.

In this episode:

[01:20] Meet Joseph, he has two home parks!
[04:07] What the Membership Director does (it includes the all-important ACE merchandise)
[09:11] On to the Fall Conference, ERT included Primordial, most attendees went there first, Joseph gives a spoiler-free description of the epic new coaster
[13:05] Spoiler-free description of Cannibal, rundown of the different meetups and shows during the event
[26:00] Sunday at S&S Worldwide (home to Arrow’s archives) included a tour and of course…
[31:44] The raffle to ride the Axis coaster!
[39:50] Executive Committee meeting recap

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editors: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Production Manager: Corey Wooten

As ACE members, our love of theme parks and roller coasters can take us around the world. It’s no surprise that ACE Europe is growing quickly. Co-host John Davidson joins ACE Europe Assistant Regional Rep Christopher Karlsson for a trackside chat about new coasters and experiences, plus some Europe region updates.

In this episode:

[01:25] Meet Christopher, his home park is Liseberg in Gothamburg, Sweden, he tacks on theme park visits to his travel plans.
[03:40] He joined when ACE Europe merged smaller groups into one larger organization.
[04:20] Brief summary of the recent Viking trip, travel logistics (spoiler: ACE Europe meets guests at the airport with a charter bus!)
[09:30] First drop, Europe! New rides including Storm the Dragon Legend at Tusenfryd.
[19:16] Liseberg celebrates 100 years with the new Liseberg Grand Curiosa Hotel

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editors: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Project Manager: Corey Wooten

ACE events happen year-round, with the biggest events bookending the summer. Our summer started with over 1300 attendees at CoasterCon and it will wrap up with 208 attendees with representation from 34 states (plus Germany and Portugal!) heading to Utah for the Fall Conference at Lagoon Park and the S&S headquarters.

Regardless of whether you plan to attend or can’t make it this year, this spoiler-free episode has something for you! Co-host Jessica Gardner meets with Julie Freed, Director of Special Events for Lagoon Park, to learn all about the family-owned park’s extensive history and the event.

In this episode:

[01:51] Meet Julie, park history: Lagoon opened in 1886 and has been a family business ever since

[6:48] Lagoon has three rides on the National Historic Register

[09:30] The park works hard to keep the older rides in riding shape

[13:20] BomBora was designed in-house (has the same seats as Primordial)

[18:25] Primordial’s seats fit just about everyone (36 inch minimum height!)

[26:13] Naming a coaster is a family affair for Lagoon Park

[35:22] All about Frightmares

Follow Lagoon Park on Instagram

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson

Producer: Derek Perry

Editors: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Project Manager: Corey Wooten

As the hot summer days started to fade, a group of ACEers came together in New York to visit some very special theme parks and acknowledge the history behind them. Preservation Conference took place in late August. Attendees visited Playland Park, Adventureland, Luna Park at Coney Island and Deno's Wonder Wheel Amusement Park, where the park owners, the Vourderis family, gave the group a warm welcome.

Co-host Jessica Gardner talks with ACE member and Preservation Conference attendee Maddy Khristov-Weinrach about her fabulous experience at the event.

In this episode:

[03:20] Maddy walks through the days at Preservation Conference, including elusive ride credits on kiddie coasters, low crowds, raffle entries and some of the great coasters that the group rode.

[12:20] Behind the scenes of the Cyclone – maintaining that coaster is a labor of love (and ACE members appreciate that!)

[18:00] The episode continues with a rundown of the different rides at Deno’s Wonder Wheel and Luna Park and a visit to the nearby Coney Island Museum

[21:45] ACE News spotlight

[22:45] October events rundown

Learn more about the parks: Adventureland, Playland Deno's Wonder Wheel Luna Park

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson

Producer: Derek Perry

Editors: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Project Manager: Corey Wooten

Many theme park visitors walk right by something pretty special without ever knowing what it is. That something special is a plaque that’s posted on a small handful of roller coasters throughout the world, designating them as ACE Landmark Coasters.

A committee of dedicated ACE members/historians selects these coasters based on criteria including historical significance of the ride. If you’ve ever posed in front of the plaque before hopping on the coaster or wondered how that coaster was chosen, all will be revealed as co-host John Davidson talks with Dave Hahner, a 43 year ACE member who works with the ACE Preservation Committee.

In this episode:

[06:52] The birth and evolution of the History Committee, it takes many contributors to do this work

[12:00] On to ACE Landmark Coasters!

[21:00] Losing coasters, the role of landmark plaques in preservation

[38:00] Implications of hybrid coasters

[41:08] Join the history committee! Overseas contributors especially welcome! Contact Jimmy Titko: jtitko@aceonline.org

[43:30] Walking through the plethora of plaques and landmark coasters at Cedar Point (shoutout to Gemini!!)

[46:47] Nod to Cedar Fair for restoring Racer 75 at Kings Dominion and The Racer at Kings Island

Learn more about ACE Landmark Coasters

https://www.aceonline.org/page/Landmark

https://www.facebook.com/ACErollercoasterlandmark

In an effort to recognize and promote rides that are noteworthy in coaster history, the ACE Roller Coaster Landmark program was established in 2000. This special designation is reserved for rides of historical significance, as determined by ACE. Additional coasters are designated on an ongoing basis. A permanent historical marker is presented to each park to display as desired, and it serves to educate park guests about the extensive history of the ride. Look for our ACE Roller Coaster Landmark plaques in the parks near each of these designated coasters!

Sources

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson

Producer: Derek Perry

Editors: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Project Manager: Corey Wooten

The end of summer means one thing for theme park enthusiasts: Halloween!

Many parks bring out their best theming and scares this time of year; Knott’s Berry Farm has been leading the way since 1973, when local personality Larry Vincent brought his Sinister Seymour character to the park for an appearance that started a trend.

That first year, Scary Farm was three nights long, it included scare actors in the Calico Mine Ride, Timber Mountain Log Ride and the now-defunct Haunted Shack. Since then, the event has grown to include numerous scare zones and mazes, plus extensive spooky theming throughout the park.

This extended episode takes a close look at today’s Scary Farm. Co-host Jessica Gardner meets Ken Parks, Corporate Director of Creative Development at Cedar Fair. She also talks with Owner and Creative Director of Plague Productions John Cooke.

This jam-packed episode continues with Ted Dougherty, author of The History of Knott’s Scary Farm and writer/director for Plague Productions. Next up is Chris Do, a Knott’s Scary Farm producer. Our last two interviews are with KC Gussler, Show Director of Music, Monsters and Mayhem and Allen Palovik - third generation Knott’s Team Member.

In this episode:

[9:40] Ken Park’s advice for anyone who dreams of working in theme parks: Get your hands into as many pots as possible, be pleasant to work with, complete your tasks.
[16:07] Planning for Knott’s Scary Farm’s 50th anniversary celebration
[36:00] Newly-rethemed lands across so many Cedar Fair parks
[38:00] Meet John Cooke, his start as a set carpenter
[1:10:14] Ted Dougherty, author of The History of Knott’s Scary Farm
[1:48:42] Chris Do covers the new-this-year mazes
[1:54:42] KC Gussler, show director of Music, Monsters and Mayhem

Learn more

www.plagueproductions.com plagueproductionsLA johnnyxplague

https://www.ultimatehaunt.com/the-book/ (the book is for sale at the Knott’s Marketplace)

Ted Dougherty’s Instagram: ultimatehaunt

Chris Do’s Instagram: heychrisss

Sources

https://www.sfgate.com/travel/article/knotts-scary-farm-inspired-halloween-17542070.php

https://www.ocregister.com/2023/08/01/knotts-scary-farm-teases-return-of-the-hanging-for-50th-anniversary-season/

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editors: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Project Manager: Corey Wooten

Behind the Thrills: Inside Coaster Maintenance and Safety

The thrill of experiencing rides is based on the trust that comes from knowing that every park’s maintenance team works diligently to keep each ride safe for all riders. When a ride or attraction has an incident, it’s sure to get a lot of negative attention. The less visible side of maintenance is the number of hours and the attention to detail that every park spends maintaining their most precious commodity: the safety of their park visitors.

Today, co-host John Davidson talks to Will Meldrum-Thush a Mechanical Engineer at Roush Entertainment Systems about the important work his team does to keep their rides safe for all guests to enjoy. Listen carefully for a pro tip about getting out of a B&M hyper coaster’s train!

In this episode:

[2:00] Roush works on theme park rides and attractions, mechanical engineers like Will design the moving parts
[8:30] The ins and outs of annual maintenance (spoiler: it’s VERY thorough!)
[19:15] Every bolt on every support is checked every day
[25:40] Block checks/bumper car prevention
[27:00] Unraveling the mystery of one train operations
[41:00] Delayed operations

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editors: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Project Manager: Corey Wooten
Correspondent: Bryant Yeager
Cover Photography: Andrew Pace, Anthony Saporito, and Rafael Larios

Not one, but two KID FLASH Cosmic Coasters are coming to Six Flags parks at the same time. We also review the September ACE events.

The 2022 IAAPA Expo included a lot of exciting announcements, including Skyline Attractions' news about building the family-friendly P’Sghetti Bowl coaster at two parks! The KID FLASH Cosmic Coaster is about to open at both Six Flags Over Georgia and Six Flags Fiesta Texas. These coasters have a single rail track with in-house track fabrication, drive systems and more. Most notably to coaster enthusiasts, the restraints are comfortable for adults and children alike.

Co-host John Davidson met with Tyler Mullins, Design Engineer at Skyline Attractions to learn more about these new twin coasters. Want to learn more about what Skyline Attractions is working on? Subscribe to Skyline Attractions’ free newsletter.

Our episode wraps up with two rundowns: ACE News and September events.

In this episode:

Meet Tyler, he did an internship with Great Coasters International during his time at Ohio State (Go Bucks!!)
GCI has worked with Skyline to collaborate on a number of awesome coasters
Skyline is bringing family coasters to new spaces (zoos, family entertainment centers)
The track was assembled on site at Six Flags Fiesta Texas in just 17 days!
Baynum Solutions is helping with coaster assembly
The Trailrunner family coaster is the modern mine train
ACE News highlights
ACE September events rundown

See Tyler’s interview with ACE at IAAPA 2022

Read Skyline’s announcement about KID FLASH

Watch video of the track completion at Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Project Manager: Corey Wooten

Before the days of social media, how did coaster enthusiasts connect?

In this episode, we go back to the early days of the internet when ACE members first found each other online. Join co-host John Davidson as he speaks with three enthusiasts about the creative ways they connected through early online forums, shared dial-up images, and meeting in-person at theme parks.

We'll chat with Bill Buckley (Controlling the Thrills with Irvine Ondrey Engineering); Rendell Bird, renowned ACE roller coaster model; and Dave Althoff, who has been answering coaster questions since the internet's infancy.

In some ways, ACE and the internet grew up together, with coaster enthusiasts finding each other by sharing slow-loading pictures of coasters while ACE members found each other in theme parks. As ACE turns 45, we’ve been celebrating our history all year.

Relive the nostalgia of the early internet and learn how it enabled a community for coaster enthusiasts across the world. Discover the connections that led to the founding of ACE 45 years ago!

In this episode:

Meet the group and learn of their history as they each share their internet and coaster enthusiast stories
Learn about rec.roller-coaster; in many ways the birthplace of theme park talk on the internet
Finding other enthusiasts online and sharing coaster photos in a pre-social media world

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editors: Bob Randolph and Alex Monastersky
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Project Manager: Corey Wooten
Correspondent: Bryant Yeager

Unearthing the Secrets of 'Treasure Hunt: the Ride'

Embark on a thrilling journey as we dive deep into the immersive world of "Treasure Hunt: the Ride". Located on the iconic Cannery Row in Monterey, California, this pirate-themed dark ride has taken the amusement world by storm, captivating both casual visitors and roller coaster aficionados.

In this episode, join our co-host Jessica Gardner as she engages in a lively discussion with the minds behind this attraction - John Wood, Rich Hill, and Lauren Weaver from Sally Dark Rides, along with Ron Daniels from Daniel’s Woodland. Discover how this powerful partnership gave birth to a storytelling marvel that promises every coaster enthusiast visiting Monterey a treasured addition to their ride credits.

See the YouTube feature here!

Episode Highlights:

Behind the Magic: Get acquainted with the creative forces that brought "Treasure Hunt: the Ride" to life.
Location Insights: Unravel the mysteries of why Cannery Row was the ideal setting for this one-of-a-kind attraction.
Haunting News from Funtown Splashtown: Uncover the spine-chilling details of their new haunted hotel introduced on July 28.
Dive into Bikini Bottom: Catch a glimpse of the upcoming Spongebob attraction slated to make waves at Circus Circus, Las Vegas.
Origin Tales: Learn about the serendipitous meeting of the teams at IAAPA that sparked this collaboration.

We value your feedback and suggestions! Share your thoughts about this episode at podcast@aceonline.org. To delve deeper into the world of roller coasters and learn more about our mission, visit ridewithace.com.

Join the team of ACE volunteers: We invite you to join our vibrant team of volunteers. By becoming a part of ACE, you can:

Have an impact on the future of ACE
Relish in meaningful experiences that make a difference
Forge lasting bonds within a close-knit community
Enhance your skillset or impart your expertise to the organization

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson Producer: Derek Perry Editor: Bob Randolph Show Notes: Liz Tan Project Manager: Corey Wooten

It’s been a real zinger of a summer when it comes to theme parks, travel, and enjoying new coasters around the world! We head into fall with a roundup of summer's newest attractions and engaging discussions with ACE members.

Co-host John Davidson chats with Paul Drabek, ACE Regional Rep for the ACE Heart of America Region, about his experience at Worlds of Fun and the all-new GCI wooden coaster, Zambezi Zinger. In our next segment, Bryant Yeager interviews Chris Kearsing, Director of Operations for Adventureland Park. For the final interview, co-host Jessica Gardner is joined by ACE Europe Assistant Regional Rep Hjälmar Sinke to discuss Mandrill Mayhem, the newest B&M wing coaster at Chessington World of Adventures.

In this episode:

Meet Paul Drabek – coaster enthusiast since the Usenet days
Zambezi Zinger media day – an epic road trip that included Waffle House
Bryant chats with Chris Kearsing about Adventureland Park's new Zamperla rides: Flying Viking and Draken Falls, plus more upcoming changes
Great Iowa road trips featuring Adventureland, Arnold’s Park, Worlds of Fun, Lost Island, Valleyfair, and others
Jessica talks with Hjälmar Sinke about Mandrill Mayhem and enchanting European parks
Learn about Chessington World of Adventures and its new coaster, part of the Merlin park family!

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email at podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the ACE volunteer team. Volunteering offers various ways to share your talents, including:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships within a close-knit community
Learning new skills or sharing your existing talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson Producer: Derek Perry Editors: Bob Randolph and Alex Monastersky Show Notes: Liz Tan Project Manager: Corey Wooten Correspondent: Bryant Yeager

Deno’s Wonder Wheel is a historic landmark ride which first opened in 1912. It still looms large on the Coney Island skyline, beckoning riders from near and far to climb aboard.

The Wonder Wheel remains the anchor of what is now known as Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park. The park has grown quite a bit and includes many recent additions including a Vekoma family thrill roller coaster, Phoenix.

Deno (DJ) Vourderis, Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park co-owner, joins Jessica to talk about the park, the Wonder Wheel and the upcoming Preservation Con event. He’s excited to welcome ACE members to the park. Listen as DJ and Jessica go in-depth about logistics for the event, covering everything from Easter eggs the park is planning to snacks during ERT!

In this episode

Jessica introduces Deno and ACE Preservation Con
Deno’s story – home park, work history, park history – it’s a family business
Relationship between Luna Park and Deno’s Wonder Wheel – the parks compliment each other but do not share a wristband or a gate
Hint about the Phoenix, changes might be coming
All Wonder Wheel parts are made in house (every wheel is a different size), he shares some maintenance stories
Things to eat in the area

Learn more about Preservation Con; it’s not too late to get your tickets! If you’re on the fence about attending, DJ mentioned that attendees will get a free Nathan’s hot dog.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org.

Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Project Manager: Corey Wooten

This week’s episode covers a variety of topics!

Join co-host Jessica Gardner and Ride With Us correspondent, Bryant Yeager, for a roundup of the Roller Coaster Rodeo event that was held at Six Flags Fiesta Texas this June. We’ll move on to Bryant’s interview with Ron McKenzie, ProParks Attractions Group Chief Marketing Officer during the inaugural AlohaCon 2023 event at Hawaiian Falls Waco.

We wrap up the episode with the ACE August event rundown. Tune in to get the complete list of ACE events – ACE members can attend regional events in any region so if your summer plans include travel, you’re welcome to purchase a ticket and join the fun!

In this episode

Meet Bryant, discover his home park and learn about his experience with ACE
And now, on with the show! Bryant describes his Roller Coaster Rodeo adventure, which was full of great food and ERT
Jessica’s mind is blown when she learns that Dr. Diabolical is female!
Bryant’s interview with Hawaiian Falls Waco, Chief Marketing Officer for ProParks Attractions Group
ProParks focuses on easy access and pricing in their neighborhood water parks
Jessica shares the August event rundown

Check out Bryan’s Amusement Source YouTube channel.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson Producer: Derek Perry Editor: Bob Randolph Show Notes: Liz Tan Project Manager: Corey Wooten Correspondent: Bryant Yeager

Join us as we chat with the production crew of the Anton Schwarzkopf documentary "Legacy of Schwarzkopf," (debuting 2024) and meet the team behind the masterpiece - Kris Rowberry, Nicholas Laschkewitsch, Robert Ingle, and Scott Schaffer.

Hear about their adventures and challenges filming on location to capture Schwarzkopf’s groundbreaking roller coaster designs!

In This Episode:

[00:23] - Jessica Welcomes the Crew to Our Show
[01:41] - Kris Rowberry (Executive Producer) Introduces the Team
[02:41] - Nicholas Laschkewitsch (Director, Editor)
[04:23] - Robert Engle (Executive Producer)
[05:27] - Scott Schaffer (Cinematographer)
[09:27] - Collaborating with Parks During Filming
[11:00] - Filming at Six Flags Over Texas (Arlington, TX)
[16:51] - Road Trip Highlights from the Crew
[18:04] - Meeting Gary Slade of Amusement Today
[19:35] - Wonderland Park (Amarillo, TX)
[26:02] - Visiting the National Roller Coaster Museum and Archives (NRCMA) in Plainview, TX
[37:00] - Windy Weather at Sea World San Antonio
[42:58] - Rest Day at Six Flags Fiesta Texas (San Antonio, TX)
[44:16] - ZDT's Amusement Park (Seguin, TX)
[45:57] - Circuit of the Americas (Austin, TX)
[51:40] - The ACE Advantage
[53:02] - Closing Statements

Background:

Pioneering German engineer Anton Schwarzkopf revolutionized roller coaster design with his iconic rides installed in parks worldwide. This documentary will showcase his lasting legacy.
ACE members enjoyed a sneak preview of the film at Coaster Con 2022. See it here.

Share feedback on this episode at podcast@aceonline.org. ACE is a non-profit dedicated to the enjoyment, history, and preservation of roller coasters globally. Discover more at www.ridewithace.com.

Get involved! Volunteering with ACE offers rewarding ways to share your passions and talents, including:

Shaping the future direction of the organization
Gaining enriching experiences
Building connections in our tight-knit community
Developing new abilities or putting your skills and talents to use

Podcast Volunteer Team:

Hosts: Jessica Gardner, John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Project Manager: Corey Wooten

Our podcast team isn't just our fantastic co-hosts, John Davidson and Jessica Gardner. It's a group of enthusiastic volunteers who work behind the scenes to put everything together.

This week, we bring one of those behind-the-scenes ACE members to the forefront to talk about one of our favorite topics: theme park road trips and vacations!

Meet Liz Tan, your show notes author and world traveler. Liz chats with John about the many theme park trips she and her family have taken. From Legoland Malaysia and Hong Kong Disneyland to destinations closer to home like the Columbus Zoo, Dorney Park, Cedar Point, and more, Liz shares her experiences. She also discusses the joys of incorporating theme park trips into longer vacations and the flexibility of working remotely while enjoying different theme parks across the country.

In this episode, John and Liz define different types of theme park trips, including day trips, road trips, add-on trips, and destination trips. We would love to hear about your theme park road trips too!

Episode Highlights:

[00:00] Meet Liz (hi!)
[02:25] Destination Trips
[03:30] Day Trips
[05:45] Extended Weekend Getaways
[13:56] Add-on Trips
[20:45] Road Trips
[27:30] Road Trips: RV / Camper Adventures

Join the team of ACE volunteers! Volunteering offers various ways to share your talents, such as:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Enjoying rewarding experiences
Developing friendships within a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team:

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson
Producer/Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Project Manager: Corey Wooten

Can you believe it? We're in the heart of theme park season and Coaster Con 45 is now just a memory! Join us as we revisit the unforgettable thrills of this grand event one last time.

Feeling the Coaster Con blues? Don't worry! We've got you covered with a rundown of exciting July events happening in your region, guaranteed to keep your adrenaline pumping until we gather again for the next Coaster Con in Northern California.

In this episode:

[00:21] - Coaster Con Recap from Hosts Jessica and John [28:50] - Late Summer ACE Event Teasers [30:43] - ACE Events for July 2023 [36:44] - Jessica's Favorite Rides from Coaster Con

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Project Manager: Corey Wooten

Coaster Con 45 - Part 2: Live from Carowinds

Coaster Con 45 has finally drawn to an exhilarating close! Our dynamic co-host, Jessica Gardner, along with the vibrant "Ride With Us" podcast team, have concluded an unforgettable week at the thrilling Carowinds in Charlotte, North Carolina.

We're excited to bring you a plethora of riveting content from the final leg of the Con, featuring a diverse mix of our passionate ACE members and the dedicated park employees.

In this episode:

[01:22] Pete Owens (Dollywood)
[35:32] Elizabeth Ringas (ACE President)

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson Producer: Derek Perry Editor: Bob Randolph Show Notes: Liz Tan Project Manager: Corey Wooten

Coaster Con 45 - Part 1: Live from Dollywood

The week we've all been eagerly anticipating is finally here – it's time for Coaster Con 2023!

Our radiant co-host, Jessica Gardner (along with the majority of the vivacious "Ride With Us" podcast team) has set the stage at the dazzling Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.

We're excited to be bringing you an abundance of thrilling content, featuring an eclectic mix of our enthusiastic ACE members and the dedicated park employees.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson Producer: Derek Perry Editor: Bob Randolph Show Notes: Liz Tan Project Manager: Corey Wooten

It Takes a Village... or Two!

In this week's episode, we explore the profound truth behind the saying, "it takes a village," as we journey to two exceptional and unique villages!

We kick off with a heartwarming visit to Give Kids the World Village, an enchanting 89-acre non-profit resort located in Kissimmee, Florida. This magical haven offers cost-free, week-long vacations to critically-ill children and their families hailing from all corners of the globe.

Our co-host, Jessica Gardner, chats with Brandon Thom, the Senior Director of Development at Give Kids the World Village, unveiling the heartening and inspiring stories behind this extraordinary initiative.

We then teleport to the vibrant Fiesta Village nestled within Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, CA, where Jessica meets with Creative Producer, Jim Clark, and Producer, Chris Do, amidst the jubilant atmosphere of the media event commemorating the grand reopening of this re-themed land. This not-to-be-missed conversation covers the reimagined attractions and tantalizing cuisines offered by the newly introduced restaurants.

Here's what awaits you in this episode:

[01:35] - Meet Brandon Thom
[01:52] - The Inspiring Journey of Give Kids the World
[06:34] - Coasting for Kids: Events & Advantages
[07:50] - Fiesta Village's Grand Reveal ft. Jim Clark & Chris Do
[08:05] - Getting to know Jim Clark
[17:43] - An Introduction to Chris Do
[24:50] - Wrap-up & Final Thoughts

Join the team of ACE volunteers! Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org.

Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE).

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson Producer: Derek Perry Editor: Bob Randolph Show Notes: Liz Tan Project Manager: Corey Wooten

First Drop #4As the weather warms up and parks and water parks open for the season, we're thrilled to share three (3) exciting new attractions at several parks. Get ready for a wave of thrills with Pipeline: The Surf Coaster at SeaWorld Orlando, Big Bear Mountain at Dollywood, and DarKoaster at Busch Gardens Williamsburg!

In this episode, our dynamic duo of co-hosts takes the stage. Jessica Gardner sets a new record by chatting with not one (1), not two (2), but three (3) SeaWorld Vice Presidents about Pipeline: The Surf Coaster. Join her in this live audio from the attraction's media day as she talks to Rob McNicholas, VP of Operations; Jeff Hornick, VP of Attractions Design and Development; and Clint Brinker, VP of Design and Engineering.

We also have the pleasure of hearing from ACE Member Calista Ringas, sharing her thoughts and experiences about the epic opening day of Big Bear Mountain. And to wrap it up, co-host John Davidson interviews ACE Member Seth Angelili about the much-anticipated opening of DarKoaster.

Timestamps:

[00:25] Rob McNicholas
[7:33] Jeff Hornick
[13:01] Jessica loves the Pipeline merch!
[14:09] Clint Brinker
[21:00] Calista Ringas on Big Bear Mountain
[36:51] John joins the chat with Seth Angelili to discuss DarKoaster

Want to make a difference and join our team of ACE volunteers? By volunteering, you can shape the future of ACE, enjoy rewarding experiences, forge friendships in a close-knit group, and develop new skills or share your talents with ACE.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Learn more about the American Coaster Enthusiasts, a non-profit organization, at ridewithace.com.

Podcast Volunteer Team:

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Project Manager: Corey Wooten

In this week's episode, our podcast co-host, Jessica Gardner, sits down with ACE member and volunteer Rachel Hawkins (@rachello26) to chat about the recent Lone Star Coasterthon event held at Six Flags Over Texas. Rachel takes us through the logistics and excitement of this event and explains how it has gained popularity over the years. Tune in for all the exciting details!

Moving on, we have a fantastic lineup of upcoming ACE events to kick off peak season for coaster enthusiasts:

[0:50] Meet Rachel Hawkins
[4:15] Lone Star Coasterthon Recap
[18:00] June Events Overview

Don't forget to like and follow the ACE Facebook Page, as well as the regional pages that interest you.

If you're passionate about roller coasters and amusement parks, consider joining the team of ACE volunteers. It's a great way to make an impact on the future of ACE, have rewarding experiences, develop friendships, and share your talents.

We value your ideas and thoughts about this podcast. Feel free to share your feedback via email at podcast@aceonline.org. To learn more about the American Coaster Enthusiasts, visit ridewithace.com.

Podcast Volunteer Team:
Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Project Manager: Corey Wooten

About the EpisodeJoin us for an exciting discussion as author and ACE member, Aimee Carver, joins our co-host Jessica Gardner. Get ready to dive into the thrilling world of coasters with Aimee's captivating new book, "R is for Roller Coaster: An ABC Guide for Future Thrill Seekers."

This exhilarating read takes young riders and readers on an alphabetical journey; exploring coaster elements, physics, mechanics, engineering, and design. It's an adventure you won't want to miss!

The book is packed with easy-to-digest definitions and stunning full-color photography, making it a perfect guide for young enthusiasts. It even includes a "My First Roller Coaster" log for them to complete!

Episode Timeline* [01:30] Aimee's coaster history: Discover Aimee's personal connection with roller coasters and how her passion for them led her to write this incredible book. * [07:15] Encouraging the next generation: Join the conversation as we explore the importance of inspiring and introducing young riders to the thrilling world of roller coasters. * [12:30] Inspiration for the book and selecting great photos: Learn about the creative process behind Aimee's book, including how she chose captivating photos that bring the coaster experience to life * [21:04] Reading the book for an ACE event: Hear about Aimee's experience sharing her book with the ACE community at an event and the excitement it brought to fellow coaster enthusiasts. * [24:00] Aimee's self-publishing journey: Get insights into Aimee's self-publishing experience and the rewarding process of bringing her vision to life.

Featured Guest Check out Aimee's Instagram: @risforrollercoaster, or send her an email: risforrollercoaster@gmail.com, and be sure to order your copy of "R is for Roller Coaster: An ABC Guide for Future Thrill Seekers!"

ACE UpdatesJoin the team of ACE volunteers and make an impact on the future of ACE. By volunteering, you'll have opportunities for rewarding experiences, develop friendships, learn new skills, and share your talents with ACE.

We want to hear from you! Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization, American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team* Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson * Producer: Derek Perry * Editor: Bob Randolph * Show Notes: Liz Tan * Project Manager: Corey Wooten

Join us for a thrilling episode as our podcast project manager, Corey Wooten, broadcasts from his home park, Carowinds!

He sits down with Carowinds' Director of Communications, Courtney Weber, and Brand Activation Manager, Chris, for an inside look at attractions, park planning, construction, and theming. But that's not all - we also have a special interview with Steve Jackson, Director of Maintenance and Construction, where we dive into the logistics of coaster construction and Carowinds' transition to year-round operations.

This episode is packed with excitement, as we get the scoop on what Coaster Con attendees can expect to experience at Carowinds.

Episode Timeline:

[03:15] Unveiling the greatness of Fury 325
[06:18] Answering common questions
[08:39] Food offerings (and funnel cake!)
[15:30] Steve Jackson joins the chat
[17:10] The logistics of coaster construction
[20:02] Carowinds' transition to year-round operations
[23:44] What Coaster Con attendees should experience at Carowinds (everything!)

Join the team of ACE volunteers.
Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan, fan of funnel cake
Project Manager: Corey Wooten
Cover Art Photography: Anthony Saporito

Constructing a new roller coaster is no small feat, and the anticipation surrounding the arrival of each new coaster often leads to extensive tracking and speculation on social media in the weeks and months leading up to opening day. However, there's much more to the story than what we see on social media.

In this week's episode, co-hosts Jessica Gardner and John Davidson dive deeper into the process of coaster construction by exploring the stories behind three coasters that have been under construction throughout the winter season.

First, John introduces us to Dan Leavelle, co-owner of Midway Mayhem and Site Build Supervisor at Skyline Attractions, who provides an insider's perspective on the construction of 'Pipeline: The Surf Coaster' at SeaWorld Orlando. Then, Jessica talks with Jim Potter, VP of Maintenance and Rides at SeaWorld San Diego, about the park's new 'Arctic Rescue' coaster. Finally, ACE's Secretary, Jeff Niemiec, joins us to discuss 'Big Bear Mountain' at Dollywood and provide his insights on the construction process.

Episode Timestamps:

[01:40] - Dan Leavelle on ‘Pipeline: The Surf Coaster’
[23:42] - Jim Potter on ‘Arctic Rescue’
[29:11] - Jeff Niemiec on ‘Big Bear Mountain’

Announcements:

Like and follow American Coaster Enthusiasts on Facebook, along with the regional pages that interest you. Coaster Con 45 registration is open! Watch this space for more information about the event.

Join ACE's team of volunteers.
Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your thoughts and ideas about the podcast by emailing us at podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about our non-profit organization, American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Project Manager: Corey Wooten

Ride With Us: Episode 75

The moment many ACE members have been waiting for has arrived!
Coaster Con 45 registration is open!

The multi-day event will take place June 18 - 21, 2023; starting with Dollywood (Pigeon Forge, TN) through June 21, then moving to Carowinds (Charlotte, NC) June 22 and 23.

Steve Berto, ACE’s Events Director, joins our co-host Jessica Gardner for an informative deep dive into Coaster Con. He discusses the planning, attendee information, and other aspects of putting together such an influential event. Tune in to find out what you can expect from this summer’s biggest ACE event!

Timestamps

01:30 | Steve Berto’s Intro & Background
10:00 | History of Coaster Con
12:50 | Coaster Con Explained
17:35 | What’s Included in the Price?
19:05 | How Are Host Parks Chosen?
22:00 | Registration Perks and Add-ons
23:45 | “Mountain Coaster Mayhem!”
29:30 | Event Accessibility
30:30 | Event Banquet and Dietary Options
36:00 | General Store and Event T-Shirt Preorders
37:25 | Midway Olympics
40:35 | Arrival, Check-In, and Scheduling
43:50 | Rubber Ducky Regatta
45:55 | Hotels and Accommodations
49:10 | Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park
51:20 | Transportation Options
53:40 | Do’s and Don’ts
54:50 | Closing Statements

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Project Manager: Corey Wooten

Co-host Jessica Gardner chatted with Adam Napotnik, ACE Facebook Coordinator about recent events and what the Facebook team does to keep ACE members in the loop about new coasters and upcoming events. Adam walks us through the last few years of CoasterBash! and explains how the annual event finally returned to the pre-Covid format at Salvatore’s. Adam walked us through the full experience, stay tuned for lots of great details about the event.

The Great Nor’Easter is another off-season event that Adam attended at the Carousel Museum in Bristol, CT. This preservation-focused event included presentations about the the museum’s work to restore carousel horses, a photo contest, tours of the facility and of course, the event included a food component!

Moving on, we cover the myriad of upcoming ACE events that herald the start of the summer coaster enthusiast season.

[2:35] Behind the scenes on the ACE Facebook team

[6:35] Coaster Con registration is open!!!

[7:40] Coaster Bash! recap

[51:10] The Great Nor’Easter recap

[73:15] May events roundup

Like and follow the ACE Facebook page, plus the regional pages that interest you..

Coaster Con 45 registration is open! Watch this space for more information about the event.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Project Manager: Corey Wooten

If you're a coaster enthusiast who has spent any time on social media in the last year, it’s quite likely that you’ve experienced the anticipation around RMC’s newest completed coaster: ArieForce One at Fun Spot America Atlanta.

The coaster opened recently, and many members of the ACE team were on hand for the big day. In addition to filming POV videos and live streaming with members of the ACE social media team, co-host Jessica Gardner went behind the scenes for our podcast listeners and interviewed a full lineup of the ArieForce One team!

In this episode, we’ll meet:

[2:51] Fun Spot America CEO John Arie Jr.
[11:15] RMC President Darren Torr
[16:16] RMC Director of Design and Engineering Jake Kilcup
[19:40] Procurement Operations Specialist from Irvine Ondrey Engineering William Buckley Jr.

Thanks for listening!
Be sure to join us every week for a new episode.

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Coaster Con 45 is coming! Do your summer plans include attending? Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization, American Coaster Enthusiasts.

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Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Project Manager: Corey Wooten

More elusive than the credit for the kiddie coaster at your local theme park is EJ Hill’s art installation Brava! which is part of a larger art installation called Brake Run Helix at MASS MoCA. It’s only there for a limited time so if you want to add this credit to your list, it’s time to make your travel plans and secure your reservation to ride.

Co-host Jessica spent some time with artist and coaster enthusiast EJ Hill recently. His story and his vision stretch far beyond the theme parks.

In this episode:

[02:20] E.J’s home park (Six Flags Magic Mountain) and favorite coaster (listen to find out)

[06:21] His unusual journey into art

[12:20] His experience walking in the world of art, his journey to make art more accessible

[20:00] Creating art from an abandoned theme park/Six Flags New Orleans (Jazzland)

[34:58] Brava! (open until January 2024)

Make your reservation to ride Brake Run Helix here.

Learn more about EJ’s work at his website: EJhill.info

Coaster Con 45 is coming! Check out the tentative schedule, which is full of fabulous ERT, unique tours, and, of course, catered meals.

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Project Manager: Corey Wooten

It’s no secret that Halloween Haunt events are a big draw for theme park visitors. As the darkness falls over the parks, many eager scare-ready visitors pass through the gates and into the Haunts that are the cornerstone of many of these events. It only makes sense that Six Flags has extended the scare into springtime, adding Scream Break to the lineup for the first time.

Co-host Jessica Gardner chatted with Alex French from Six Flags Magic Mountain about this unique event.

Coaster Con 45 is coming! Do your summer plans include attending?

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Project Manager: Corey Wooten

With construction finished or nearing completion on so many long-anticipated new coasters, our roving band of reporters are out in the field and around the world, riding these new attractions and sharing their experiences with us.

Join us as co-hosts Jessica Gardner and John Davidson get the lowdown on three exciting new coasters:

TRON: Lightcycle / Run, Xander Lee (ACE Member Benefits Manager)
Mission Ferrari in Abu Dabhi, Teresa Zakova (ACE Europe Assistant Rep)
Aquaman: Power Wave, Rachel Hawkins (Six Flags Over Texas)

In this episode:

[01:00] Gather round as Xander Lee tells us about TRON: Lightcycle Run in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom

[13:30] Learn about the Virtual Queue (TRON will use this when it opens)

[22:20] Accessible seats on the TRON: Lightcycle Run trains

[33:07] Teresa Zakova tells us about Mission Ferrari at Ferrari World, Abu Dabhi

[35:00] Teresa cut the ribbon for Mission Ferrari!

[47:00] Aquaman: Power Wave opened at Six Flags Over Texas. Rachel Hawkins joins John for a discussion about this exciting new water coaster.

Check out Teresa cutting the ribbon for Mission Ferrari!

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Project Manager: Corey Wooten

Finally! The park gates are about to open for the first time and a world of park adventures are about to begin anew. Before that first drop, we’ll take a minute to cover a recent off-season ACE Event: Eastcoaster. Michael Leszkowicz joins co-host Jessica for a rundown of the event.

We move on to hear all about the upcoming ACE events. With the parks open again, these events will shift from off-season tours and talks to real live meetups that include ERT and buffets!

In this episode:

[00:35] Jessica talks to Michael

[20:30] Europe’s first ACE Landmark Coaster at Tivoli Gardens

[28:00] ACE March events rundown

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Project Manager: Corey Wooten

This year, more theme parks than ever have stayed open year-round. Kings Dominion, Carowinds, California’s Great America and other regional parks have offered new-this-year limited hours through the cold, icy and rainy winter. These extra hours were a gift to die-hard enthusiasts but it’s finally time for less limited hours and more ride operations to be in full swing.

Join co-hosts John and Jessica for a rundown of the various springtime offerings in some of our favorite parks. The team also explores the many upcoming dates for park openings. So get out your croakies and your fanny pack, coaster season is about to begin!

In this episode:

[02:20] Six Flags new events (Scream Break, Tacos & Beer Fest and more!)

[09:00] New attractions as far as the eye can see

[19:00] Opening dates and upcoming festivals

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Project Manager: Corey Wooten

If you haven’t heard of the Melanin Coaster Network yet, here’s your chance! This group was founded in February 2022 as a way for coaster enthusiasts of color to come together and share their passion. Founder CEO Martina Moore, Jr (aka Prime), has an infectious personality that is inspiring coaster enthusiasts from across the country to join the new networking group and attend their events. Join us as Prime and MCN President Brichette Reid share their amazing story.

The group started with an informal meetup at Carowinds to celebrate Juneteenth in 2022 and has grown quickly. MCN celebrated their 1st anniversary with an amazing event at Six Flags Magic Mountain. Sporting their epically cool MCN shirts, the group enjoyed the rest of the day together, sharing their love of coasters, trading stories about different parks and wrapping up the formal event with a buffet under the watchful eye of X2.

But MCN goes beyond the parks – they’re changing the world by connecting college (and potential college) students with mentors in the theme parks, they’re working with Universal Orlando to expand the presence of people of color in the workforce and they make amazing ride videos.

In this very full episode:

[01:01] What is MCN? Prime Junior introduces the group and his love of coasters (shout out to Steel Vengeance)

[03:30] Brichette Reid’s journey as a coaster enthusiast started with the Scooby Doo at Kings Dominion

[05:39] The MCN is born – this is a not-miss story!

[13:00] Prime and Brichette are both ACE members, ACE events inspire them as they plan MCN events

[18:45] MCN is partnering with Universal Orlando to bring more people of color as employees!

[26:00] The network is coordinating mentors for hopeful theme park employees

[30:00] MCN’s ride videos

Learn more about the Melanin Coaster Network: https://www.melanincoasternetwork.org/ Instagram: @melanin_coaster_network, TikTok: @melanincoasternet, Facebook

Join the MCN for their upcoming events (full listing available here): https://www.melanincoasternetwork.org/events

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Network & Thrillz: The Universal Takeover

Friday, May 5, 2023

Fury Friday at Carowinds

Sunday, June 18, 2023

"Hotlanta" Fun Spot - ArieForce One

Monday, June 19, 2023

"Hotlanta" Six Flags Over Georgia

Become an ACE member at ridewithace.com/join

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Ben Weinrach

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Project Manager: Corey Wooten

In this episode, co-host John does a deep dive with Barry Hill and Kings Island superfan John Keeter from Rivershore Creative about creating Kings Island: a Photographic Journey. Kings Island opened their photo archives and the team assembled the color photos, concept art and blueprints that emerged into an impressive coffee table book that completes the iconic park’s 50th anniversary celebration. Kings Island legend and Area Manager, Digital Marketing Don Helbig rounds out the show!

If you visited Kings Island for that celebration or just wanted to attend, this episode is sure to bring back great memories of your time in the park.

—---

In this episode:

[01:40] Introducing the beautiful hardback coffee table book and the team

[05:27I Behind the scenes look: how the team convinced Kings Island to access the archives

[05:27-18:00] Bonus mentions of the original Bat!

[27:51] Don Helbig explains how the team came together

[31:55] Don’s records and current ride count on The Racer

The book is available online: https://www.kingsislandgear.com/products/kings-island-a-photographic-journey and will be available in the Kings Island gift shop once the park opens for the season.

The book will also be available at Barry’s website:

https://www.rivershorecreative.com/kings-island-a-photographic-journey

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: mailto:podcast@aceonline.org

Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan (big fan of the original Bat)

In this episode, we cover a lot of ground! From California to Colorado and Texas, the First Drop: Part Two looks at a new coaster, a relocated coaster and a brand new themed land.

The Prairie Screamer coaster made a big move, from a defunct park in California to Texas. ACE News Editorial Director Tim Baldwin talks to John about this screaming location change and the coaster enthusiast preview day in the coaster’s new home.

Then, Jessica talks to Amber Lightbody, ACE Rocky Mountain Regional Rep about the new Gerstlauer coaster Defiance at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park (Glenwood Springs, CO). We finish the episode by joining Jessica as she, Derek and Doug Perry recall their trip down a warp pipe and into Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood (Universal City, CA). This extensively-themed new land is getting a lot of attention, and rightfully so.

[01:20] Prairie Screamer

[08:59] Defiance

[22:03] Super Nintendo World

Volunteer with ACE!

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers you even more opportunities to enhance the enjoyment of your roller coaster hobby by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: mailto:podcast@aceonline.org

Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

ACE members, your membership includes access to a wide variety of amazing content! In this episode, we discuss some of the many ways ACE volunteers work to bring that content to you and how you can access it.

Highlights include: digital meetups, ACE News, ACE 360, and ACE’s YouTube channel.

Join John as he talks to a trio of ACE volunteers: Jes Niemiec who hosts digital events for ACE members (she’s looking for volunteers!!) and works on the newsletter, Kohl Gribble, Creative Writing Coordinator as he talks about ACE 360 and Tim Baldwin, Editorial Director for ACE News.

[01:30] Jes Niemiec walks through the Digital Events/Newsletter

[23:40] John interviews Kohl Gribble about ACE 360

[30:00] John interviews ACE Magazine Editorial Director Tim Baldwin

ACE 360 is a home for authors to share their personal stories and unique outlook on our shared enthusiasm for theme parks. ACE News offers readers the latest and greatest news about new attractions, park changes, summaries of ACE events, and other newsworthy items.

Volunteer with ACE!

Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers you even more opportunities to enhance the enjoyment of your roller coaster hobby by:

Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: mailto:podcast@aceonline.org

Visit www.aceonline.org to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Podcast Volunteer Team

Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Ben Weinrach

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Winter and the off season for many parks may be upon us but the ACE events continue throughout the year. Join us for a rundown of John’s visit to No Coaster Con, which was held on January 14, 2023 near the Chicago airport. Though the event may not be held in a park, rest assured that like most ACE events, lunch was served and coaster enthusiasts gathered to enjoy each other’s company.

[01:00] John attended No Coaster Con for the first time!

[01:15] Spoiler: no coasters were part of the event

[02:30] Announcements from the event

[02:50] Santa’s Village (East Dundee, IL) held a waterslide duck race

[03:40] VR sleigh

[03:58] New spinner coaster coming soon

[04:10] Knoebel’s announcements – retracking the helix on Twister

[04:45] Birthday party for various Knoebel’s rides

[05:11] Dollywood, (Pigeon Forge, TN) – Big Bear Mountain updates (last piece of track is in!!)

[06:00] 16,000 pumpkins at Dollywood’s Harvest Festival

[07:00] Raging Waves water park (Yorkville, IL) presented, no big announcement but a great intro to their park and their family

[08:30] King’s Island (Mason, OH shared highlights of the park’s 50th anniversary

[09:00] Phantom Theater (retired dark ride) became a theater show last season

[09:26] Adventure Port themed area construction is coming along

[09:30] What about the land where Vortex was? No news.

[10:10] The Beast’s reprofiling – the Beast is back!!

[11:00] Holiday World Voyage retracking

[11:30] John droned on about drones at Holiday World and King’s Island

[12:11] Voyage’s retracking uses some prefabricated parts

[13:20] Adventureland (Altoona, IA) purchased by Palace Entertainment

[14:56] Cedar Point (Sandusky, OH) do not think about Top Thrill Dragster

[15:57] Top Thrll Dragster reopening in 2024, no plans announced

[16:30] New mouse coaster at Cedar Point

[17:19] National Roller Coaster Museum (Plainview, TX) shared updates

[18:25] Construction continued through the COVID shutdown Larson donated construction time and labor

[20:18] Six Flags parks had 4 presenters, Six Fiags Over Georgia (Austell, GA) announced a new family racing coaster

[21:16] Six Flags St Louis (Eureka, MO) teased a new family ride

[22:45] Deno’s Wonder Wheel (New York City, NY) announced a new coaster

[23:29] Lost Island (Waterloo, IA) – app that adds backstory to their dark ride, launch coaster opening this year

[25:00] Six Flags Fiesta Texas (San Antonio, TX) is adding a waterpark and a skyline racer

[26:35] Gravity Group presented details of their updated, enhanced wood track

[27:30] Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters owner and friend of ACE Tom Rebbe wrapped up the event

[30:00] Auction and ACE networking during and after the event

[34:57] ACE event rundown

Visit www.ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org

Volunteer with ACE! If you enjoy ACE content, ACE events or just love coasters, there’s a place for you to share your talents. https://www.aceonline.org/group/Volunteer

Thanks to the Ride with Us podcast team

Producer: Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

In this episode of the ACE Ride with Us podcast, we had the opportunity to talk to two coaster enthusiasts who took on an awesome task – building roller coasters in their backyards!

First, we meet with Justin Nolte, John’s neighbor and backyard coaster builder. He built both a treehouse and a coaster in his yard. Check out his video: https://youtu.be/t7VLPrTd3gE

We then talk to ACE member Ben Densmore, who designed, built and operates Ohio's fourth largest indoor roller coaster, the Whipper Dipper. We’d like to see the first three largest indoor coasters, too!

First up is Justin Nolte, co-host John’s neighbor and backyard coaster builder.

[01:14] Justin’s son asked for a treehouse, his daughter asked for a roller coaster – so he did both!

[02:05]Researched the project online

[02:17]Fabricates for a living

[02:37]Built the car himself

[04:00]Motorized lift mechanism

[05:10]John didn’t know his neighbor was building a coaster

Bryant Yeager from ACE South Central is our guest host for the second segment, he chats with Ben Densmore, creator of the Whipper Dipper.

[10:03] First ride was The Racer at Kings Island

[11:12]First ACE event: Aug 5, 2012 tour of Gravity Group

[12:16]Enjoys the smaller ACE events at regional parks

[12:57]Introducing Ben’s wooden coaster

[13:07]Ben’s background – physics degree but ended up working in food service for a while

[13:37]Used his physics background to build a coaster in his backyard

[14:15]Talked to contractors at Home Depot – learned a lot

[15:00]Designing the track and the car

[15:16]Started as a greenhouse to meet local building requirements and keep the project secure

[17:05]Tight turns in a small space

[17:27]Ball casters instead of wheels

[17:50]Car modeled after an old PTC car

[18:55]Got materials off Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist

[20:31]Ben now works at Gravitykraft Corporation, sister company of the Gravity Group!

[20:55]Neighbors' reactions to Ben’s coaster

[23:00]Considering moving the coaster

Watch for Whipper Dipper on Facebook later this year!

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org

Visit www.aceonline.org to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Coaster Con 45 will be held at Dollywood and Carowinds from June 18-23 2023. ACE members worldwide are starting to make travel plans – will you be there?

Thanks to the Ride with Us podcast team

Producer & Guest Interview Segment: Bryant Yeager

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org

Visit www.aceonline.org to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Coaster Con 45 will be held at Dollywood and Carowinds from June 18-23 2023. ACE members worldwide are starting to make travel plans – will you be there?

Thanks to the Ride with Us podcast team

Producer & Guest Interview Segment: Bryant Yeager

Editor: Bob Randolph

Show Notes: Liz Tan

Join us for a brake run chat with ACE President Elizabeth Ringas. 2023 marks ACE’s 45th year and Elizabeth has lot of plans for the organization's future.

In this episode, Jessica and Elizabeth recap 2022, including new coaster credits, CoasterCon, kiddie coaster roundups, IAAPA coverage, preserving historic coasters and discuss those future plans.

Elizabeth is always open to hearing your thoughts about ACE: eringas@aceonline.org

In this episode:

[01:07] Elizabeth’s new coaster credits for 2022

[02:22] Jessica and Elizabeth meet for the first time at Wonder Woman: Flight of Courage

[03:35] The ACE family

[05:10] Remembering Jay Jacobs

[05:30] IAAPA Expo highlights

[07:40] ACE Safe Space initiative – Discord server

[08:49] 2023 plans including Preservation Con

[10:17] Preservation Con agenda

[11:35] ACE turns 45! Year-long celebration is underway

[14:05] Volunteer with ACE

[16:18] Executive committee annual meeting (upcoming)

Coaster Con 45 will be held at Dollywood and Carowinds from June 18-23 2023. ACE members worldwide are starting to make travel plans – will you be there?

Follow ACE on Instagram for more 45th anniversary news: ridewithace

We want to hear from you! Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast: podcast@aceonline.org

Visit www.aceonline.org to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

In this episode, we meet with with Steve Thomas, Amusement Park Director at Traders Village in Grand Prairie, TX. Traders Village saved the Prairie Screamer roller coaster when the Scandia Amusement Park in Ontario, CA closed in 2019. Steve was part of the team that moved and refurbished the coaster, which opened at its new home in November, 2022.

Park link: https://tradersvillage.com/grand-prairie/rides/the-prairie-screamer-ride/

In this episode:

[00:45] Prairie Screamer history

[03:00] How Traders Village acquired the coaster

[12:35] Moving the coaster

[14:00] Informal media event

[19:00] Behind the scenes

We want to hear from you! Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast: podcast@aceonline.org

Visit www.aceonline.org to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

You can read more at Amusement Today: https://amusementtoday.com/issues/2022/202211ii

Welcome to the ACE Ride With Us holiday rundown.

In this episode, we discuss upcoming ACE events, cover the many holiday events that co-hosts John and Jessica attended, share deals on season passes and discuss the benefits of an ACE membership.

In this episode:[00:45] ACE Event Rundown[03:00] Doug Perry interview[12:35] John’s tour of holiday events[14:00] Jessica’s tour of holiday events[19:00] Great deals on Season Passes [30:00] ACE membership makes a great gift! We want to hear from you! Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast: podcast@aceonline.org

Visit www.aceonline.org to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

Welcome Matthew Schmotzer, Print My Ride Detroit, to the ACE Ride with Us Podcast

In this episode:

[00:45] Matt’s coaster origin story, grew up at Cedar Point

[03:00] When he started printing 3D Roller Coasters

[12:35] Model of Steel Vengeance

[14:00] Coasterdynamix, transition into NanoCoasters and Coaster Cutouts

[19:00] Huge models made out of plywood

[30:00] His now-funded “Have Some Restraint” kickstarter

Show ExtrasLearn more about Matthew’s Roller Coaster Restraint Stress Ball Kickstarter

Find out more about Coasterdynamix at https://www.coasterdynamix.com/

You can find out more about Matt and links to his social media at https://www.printmyridedetroit.com/

We want to hear from you! Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast: podcast@aceonline.org

Visit www.aceonline.org to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.

In this episode we review Day 4 of the show floor in 2022 and a IAAPA recap with Elizabeth Ringas.

If you have any ideas or feedback for the podcast we can be reached at mailto:podcast@aceonline.org

The mission of American Coaster Enthusiasts is to: Foster and promote the conservation, appreciation, knowledge, and enjoyment of the classic wooden roller coaster and the contemporary steel roller coaster; Create fellowship among its members; and to Promote the continued operation of roller coasters

In this episode we review day 2 on the show floor in 2022

If you have any ideas or feedback for the podcast we can be reached at mailto:podcast@aceonline.org

The mission of American Coaster Enthusiasts is to: Foster and promote the conservation, appreciation, knowledge, and enjoyment of the classic wooden roller coaster and the contemporary steel roller coaster; Create fellowship among its members; and to Promote the continued operation of roller coasters

In this episode Jessica and John review the first day on the show floor in 2022

If you have any ideas or feedback for the podcast we can be reached at mailto:podcast@aceonline.org

The mission of American Coaster Enthusiasts is to: Foster and promote the conservation, appreciation, knowledge, and enjoyment of the classic wooden roller coaster and the contemporary steel roller coaster; Create fellowship among its members; and to Promote the continued operation of roller coasters

Let's join fellow ACE member Nick Feller as he talks with John on the highlights working at Indian Beach for the weekend.

Indian Beach: https://indianabeach.com/

If you have any ideas or feedback for the podcast we can be reached at mailto:podcast@aceponline.org

The mission of American Coaster Enthusiasts is to: Foster and promote the conservation, appreciation, knowledge, and enjoyment of the classic wooden roller coaster and the contemporary steel roller coaster http://ridewithace.com/

Welcome to the ACE Ride with Us Happy Halloween Podcast

In this episode Jessica and John review the parks they visited for the 2022 Halloween season.

You can review all of the ACE... AMERICAN "GHOSTER" ENTHUSIASTS at http://ridewithace.com/halloween

If you have any ideas or feedback for the podcast we can be reached at mailto:podcast@aceponline.org

The mission of American Coaster Enthusiasts is to: Foster and promote the conservation, appreciation, knowledge, and enjoyment of the classic wooden roller coaster and the contemporary steel roller coaster; Create fellowship among its members; and to Promote the continued operation of roller coasters

Today we have Matt Hughey to get the latest details on COTALAND

In this episode we talk about: [01:30] What is Circuits of America? https://circuitoftheamericas.com/

[04:00] Fox news interview given on the Soarin' Eagle https://www.fox7austin.com/video/935286

[02:45] COTA Karting https://circuitoftheamericas.com/karting/

15 turns - up to 45 MPH

[06:00] First steps, COTALand Kiddie Amusement Park

[09:45] Steps going from kid rides to IAPPA 2021 announcement of Palindrome Coaster from Gerstlauer

[14:20] Announced Circuit Breaker with Vekoma as the manufacturer

[21:45] Future plans for the park

COTALAND

https://circuitoftheamericas.com/cotaland/

Thanks again, Matt Hughey https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-hughey-3a592526

Welcome to the ACE Ride with Us Podcast

In this episode:

[00:50] Cedar Fair Tricks and Treats creative team: Jen Bascom, Andy Crocker, David Ruzika

https://www.cagreatamerica.com/events/tricks-and-treats

https://www.valleyfair.com/events/tricks-and-treats

[31:48] Hersheypark Dark Nights with Quinn Bryner

https://www.hersheypark.com/explore-the-park/halloween.php

[46:00] Highlights for HHN (Universal Parks) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DEQRHplYpWs

Call to Action - Submit your favorite Halloween memory from your local park and get featured on out Halloween update episode podcast@aceponline.org

The mission of American Coaster Enthusiasts is to: Foster and promote the conservation, appreciation, knowledge, and enjoyment of the classic wooden roller coaster and the contemporary steel roller coaster; Create fellowship among its members; and to Promote the continued operation of roller coasters

Welcome to the ACE Ride with Us Minicast for Aug 2022 where we are are going to get to know our new co-host John Davidson

You can find John on the ACE Discord server @ParksWithPoints

(ACE Members Only)

Thanks again for listening - If you’re interested in becoming a member of ACE, visit our website at www.ACEonline.org or follow us on your favorite social media network

Join us! http://www.aceonline.org/JoinACE

Facebook us! http://bit.ly/ACEonlineFB

Tweet us! http://bit.ly/ACEonlineTwitter

Instagram us! https://bit.ly/ACEonlineIG

Welcome to the ACE Ride with Us Minicast for Aug 2022 where we are are going to get to know our new co-host Jessica Gardner

[0:40] ACE origin story

[2:62]The Theme Parkettes

Podcast https://www.themeparkettes.com

TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@themeparkettes

IG https://www.instagram.com/thethemeparkettes

[5:12] Dressing up

[6:40] Penguin for Emperor - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S9X8SBb9pXo

[7:40] Day job IMDB https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1235656

[13:12] Home Park

[19:30] Bucket list Coaster

Thanks again for listening - If you’re interested in becoming a member of ACE, visit our website at www.ACEonline.org or follow us on your favorite social media network

Join us! http://www.aceonline.org/JoinACE

Facebook us! http://bit.ly/ACEonlineFB

Tweet us! http://bit.ly/ACEonlineTwitter

Instagram us! https://bit.ly/ACEonlineIG

Welcome to The First Drop - the First ACE Ride with Us Podcast highlighting the new coasters

In this episode: [00:30] WONDER WOMAN Flight of Courage at Six Flags Magic Mountain

[07:30] Interview with Rocky Mountain Construction President Darren Torr

[13:00] Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT with Doug Perry

[19:00] Dr. Diabolical's Cliffhanger at Six Flags Fiesta Texas

[20:00] Interview with Jeff Filicko If you have any ideas or feedback for the podcast we can be reached at podcast@aceponline.org

Welcome Arthur Levine to the ACE Ride with Us Podcast

In this episode: [00:60] Events with Rollercoaster Rylie

[03:00] Upcoming Event Rundown

[04:20] Rollercoaster Tattoos

Arthur Levine - aboutthemeparks.fun

[07:40] Arthur's first cover story

[09:25] Popularity of Hybrid Coasters

[15:15] Arthur's ideas on a new Coaster Category

[21:45] How he ranks and reviews attractions

[29:30] Stories from covering the Industry

For ACE members - BONUS CONTENT can be found at: https://www.aceonline.org/page/PodBonusContent

Arthur’s About Theme Parks newsletter: https://www.aboutthemeparks.fun/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AboutThemeParks

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AboutThemeParks

If you have any ideas or feedback for the podcast we can be reached at podcast@aceponline.org

The mission of American Coaster Enthusiasts is to: Foster and promote the conservation, appreciation, knowledge, and enjoyment of the classic wooden roller coaster and the contemporary steel roller coaster; Create fellowship among its members; and to Promote the continued operation of roller coasters

Welcome to the ACE Ride with us Mincast where we get an update on the ACE Election process with Elizabeth Ringas

[ACTION NEED] ACE Members need to vote by July 15th 2022

In this episode we will:

Review the Election process
List of the Role, Responsibilities highlights, and People running
How you would have been notified via email [Check your email address at: https://www.aceonline.org/login.aspx] Process to change your vote if you already voted

In the BONUS CONTENT you will find the interviews from CosterCon: https://www.aceonline.org/page/podcast_2022ElectionBonusContent Candidate 2022 platforms are available online for review at: https://www.aceonline.org/resource/resmgr/flyers/2022electionplatformsrev.pdf

For President: Elizabeth Ringas

For Vice President: David Dragun, Robert Reagan

For Secretary: Kristy Hess, Jeff Niemiec, Tina Napotnik Sepcic

For Treasurer: Chris Tilsley

The 2022 ACE Nominating Committee members are Bill Graves (chair), Jim Augustine and Bruce Freedle. They can be contacted at nominations@aceonline.org

If you have any ideas or feedback for the podcast we can be reached at podcast@aceponline.org

On this month's podcast, we sit down for an extended interview with Irvine Ondrey Engineering's Anne Irvine and Brian Ondrey. Plus, we'll learn about one of the newest ACE Roller Coaster landmarks, Blue Streak!

Have a comment or suggestion for a new show? Email us: podcast@aceonline.org

On this month's minicast, we sit down with Joshua from Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, as he tells us about why they're such a unique Six Flags park, and what it takes to care for all of those animals each and every day!

Join Kris and his co-hosts for this month, Jessica Gardner and John Davidson as they discuss the best ways to guarantee a ride on the soft-opened Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Coaster at EPCOT.

We'll also chat with Jonathan Smith, Vice President of Rides and Engineering with SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment about his incredible role in the company and what he looks for in deciding which rides go where.

On this month's minicast, we sit down with ACE member John Moore, who speaks about his experience discovering the coaster community and how he follows his passion for coasters despite the challenges life has thrown at him.

This month, we talk about the new attractions opening up across the country and sit down with Sean LaRochelle and Will Pemble, two backyard coaster creators to discuss their latest collaboration. We'll also preview Coaster Con at Cedar Point and Kennywood.

On this month's minicast, we sit down with ACE Southwest's Regional Rep, Amber Lightbody who talks about the importance of volunteering and what drives per passion for coasters.

This month, we sit down with Kings Island's Don Helbig, who talks about major updates to the park during the off-season, and what fans can expect from a re-profiled Beast.

Plus, we'll have a fireside chat with Bill Linkenheimer, former ACE President and current Regional Rep. for ACE Western Pennsylvania to discuss the background and history of Conneaut Lake Park's Blue Streak.

In this month's minicast, we sit down for a "fireside chat" with ACE's President, Robert Ulrich. Learn about what's coming up for ACE as well as how you can help get more involved!

On this month's minicast, Podcast Team Member John Davidson (of ACE Great Lakes Region) sits down with Anthony Marinakis, Creative Director and Lead Venue Designer at Endless Surf. Now you might think of WhiteWater (their parent company) as just a water slide manufacturer - but you'd be wrong!

This month, we sit down with Dr. David Lewis, a Psychologist from Great Britain, who gives us the health benefits of riding coasters, including superhuman strength?!? We'll also chat about the new Connected By Coasters initiative being launched by ACE, as well as the sad demise of Blue Streak at Conneaut Lake Park.

This month, ACE Southern California Regional Rep. Derek Perry joins us to talk about holiday events at parks. Plus, we sit down with Cleveland Browns Wide Receiver, Anthony Schwartz who shares how he got into coasters and if he's ever able to get to parks during the football season.

It's finally IAAPA Week! Tens of thousands of industry professionals have descended on Orlando for the biggest trade show in the amusement industry. Kris and Elizabeth discuss the show and some of the cool things announced there.

Plus, we speak with Marcus Leshock, anchor, reporter and roller coaster bureau chief for WGN TV in Chicago! We learn what ride was his favorite, what made him become an ACE member and which coaster he would bring back if he could!

On this month's episode, we sit down with Park President of Six Flags Fiesta Texas (and long-time ACE friend) Jeffrey Siebert to talk about his new B&M dive coaster coming in 2022, as well as why the guest experience is so important to him. We'll also talk about the return of spooky season and look ahead to the big IAAPA Expo in just a few weeks. Got a podcast idea? Send us an email: podcast@aceonline.org

On this month's episode, we have ACE Communications Director, Elizabeth Ringas sit in to discuss all of the newly announced attractions coming in 2021. We'll also sit down with Amusement Today's Tim Baldwin to discuss the recent Golden Ticket Awards, how the newspaper got started and how you can be a part of the voting pool for next year's awards! Got a podcast idea? Send us an email: podcast@aceonline.org

For this month's minicast, let's listen in as ACE Member and Podcast Producer, Bryant Yeager takes us back to June and the epic event that was Coaster Con 43. Enjoy!

Coaster Con has officially come and gone, so Clint and Kris take a few minutes to look back at the event, plus look forward to many others coming up real soon in the event rundown!

Plus, we'll sit down with Guy Nelson, CEO of Dynamic Attraction Group, who gives us a preview of some upcoming projects including some that are truly out of this world!

Have an idea for the podcast, or a comment? Drop us a line: podcast@aceonline.org

Clint and Kris get pumped for Coaster Con, discuss Give Kids the World and the upcoming ACE Elections. Plus, Andrew sits down with the Crider Family to discuss their love of the thrill.

Got a podcast idea or thought? Send it in to podcast@aceonline.org!

Clint and Kris sit down to discuss some of their thoughts on all of the new attractions scheduled to open this year! Which one do you think will be your favorite?

Got a podcast idea or thought? Send it in to podcast@aceonline.org!

Do you think you're an expert in industry acronyms? Put your knowledge to the test as you play along with Kris and Clint! Plus, we’ll learn about Bowling Green State University’s Theme Park Management program!

Join us for this minicast as we sit down with ACE member Chris Tilsley, who talks about how he and his wife share their love of thrill rides while they manage all that travel with their children.

This month, Andrew sits down with the director / producer of "Class Action Park," Seth Porges, to hear about why they made the film. Plus, Clint and Kris discuss some of the more legendary stories to come out of Action Park, the most infamous amusement park the world has ever seen!

This episode, we sit down with ACE's Treasurer, Cheri Armstrong as she talks about what it takes to keep our organization running smoothly. Plus, we learn about all the other facets of ACE that Cheri helps out with.

The holidays are upon us and what better way to put aside the year that was with some great theme-park related trips and gifts! Plus, we sit down with Dan Leavelle of Midway Mayhem and Sarah Anderson of G-Force. We even get a surprise appearance from Scott Schaffer of Upstop Media!

Andrew Locke sits down with the Zachary Family to talk about how they became roller coaster enthusiasts as well as how their love of thrill rides has brought them closer together.

We sit down with ACE Communications Director, Elizabeth Ringas to chat about her journey in ACE, why the organization needs a communications position and what she loves most about volunteering!

So is Spooky Season completely canceled or just modified where you live? Plus, we'll hear from ACE Member, Bryant Yeager, who gives us his trip report from his home park, Six Flags Over Texas, during the COVID-19 pandemic. What's changed and what's the same? Tune in to find out!

We sit down with ACE President, Robert Ulrich to discuss how he found the club, how much work goes into serving as the leader of the largest non-profit enthusiast organization in the world (a LOT), and busts some myths along the way.

It's our first mini-cast! Clint & Kris discuss the scourge of all roller coaster fans: line jumpers! What's the worst experience they've ever had? What parks do the best at curbing these rule breakers?

Also, we're hard at work on upcoming episodes and want to hear from you! What are some coaster or park myths you want to have busted or confirmed? Email us at podcast@aceonline.org and you just might hear yourself on the next episode!

In this month's episode, Clint & Kris recover from the insanity that was Coaster Con at Home. We'll also learn about the unique history of Indiana Beach as they re-open from the ashes.

Finally, we'll sit down with Pete Owens, Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations at Dollywood to hear how he got into the industry, as well as some of the challenges of operating a park safely in the middle of a pandemic.

This month, we celebrate World Roller Coaster Appreciation Month - and the approach of Coaster Con at Home!

We'll hear about another of ACE's Coaster Families and we'll speak with the one and only Tom Rebbie of Philadelphia Toboggan Coasters, Inc. He'll fill us in on how PTC is doing, some of the incredible history the company has seen, and tell some pretty unique stories as only he can!

Want to be a part of the podcast? Send us your questions, comments or audio clips to podcast@aceonline.org

This month, as we continue to navigate these uncertain waters, we discuss ways to plan the perfect coaster road trip. Whether to fly or drive, hot or cold, bugs or cheerleaders?!? We break down how to ensure your trip is a good one.

Plus, we'll speak from Susan Storey, Director of Communications for IAAPA. She'll tell us how the industry is responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as ways YOU the enthusiast can help the industry out.

Want to be a part of the podcast? Send us your questions, comments or audio clips to podcast@aceonline.org

An unprecedented and historic shutdown of the amusement industry will be our only topic this month. COVID-19 has had a devastating effect on the worldwide economy and on the places that bring us together as ACE Members.

This episode tackles how you can pass the time while sheltering-in-place and more importantly, how you can help your local park(s) when they re-open.

Want to be a part of the podcast? Send us your questions, comments or audio clips to podcast@aceonline.org

Spring is nearly upon us, which means parks are slowly opening back up!

This month, we'll dispel myths about media days; why they aren’t exactly ERT sessions and why ACE members often get the call to help out.

We'll also sit down with Tom Zeliff, one of the co-creators of the No Limits roller coaster simulator.

Be a part of the podcast! Send all comments and questions to: podcast@aceonline.org. You could end up on the show!

This month, we'll sit down with Adam Sandy and Mark Rosenzweig of Ride Entertainment. If you've ever wanted to know what it's like to sell roller coasters for a living, this interview is a can't miss!

We'll also discuss how to best get through the winter months, especially in regions without year-round parks.

Join us this month as we discuss the rise in holiday events at parks, sit down with Taylor Bybee of Coaster Studios and Logan Joiner of Koaster Kids to discuss why they started their online coaster channels as well as why they love being part of the ACE family.

Finally, we’ll talk about what coaster-related Christmas gifts we’re hoping are under our trees and in our stockings.

In this episode, we discuss the IAAPA Expo - what it is and what it's not - and why it's become the biggest gathering of amusement industry professionals in the world.

Plus, we sit down with Brian and Rick Knoebel of Knoebels Amusement Resort to talk about their park history and why preservation runs in their veins.

Finally, we chat about why rides are retired and what goes into making that painful decision.

Welcome to the premiere episode of Ride With Us, the official podcast of the American Coaster Enthusiasts!

In this episode:

Who is ACE and what will I hear in these podcasts?
Hear from Fred Grubb, owner of Rocky Mountain Construction.
Where can I ride with ACE? Learn about upcoming events near you!

Not an ACE Member? No problem! Visit www.ACEonline.org to learn how!

Welcome to the preview of the ACE Ride With Us Podcast! Join Clint and Kris as they introduce themselves and the future of this exciting new endeavor of the American Coaster Enthusiasts!

Interested in joining ACE? Visit https://www.aceonline.org