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How to Turn Underutilized Venue Space into Live Entertainment with Jack Slayton – Podcast Episode 148
Audio Links: Apple | Spotify | Amazon Music | iHeart Radio | Pandora
Episode Description
On this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ is joined by Jack Slayton, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer at Game Show Studio. Together, they explore the shift toward live entertainment in Family Entertainment Centers (FECs) and location-based venues. Jack shares how transforming underutilized space into an immersive Hollywood-style game show experience drives customer engagement, creates repeat business, and delivers a unique draw for corporate outings and group events alike.
“It brings in the groups and brings in people who are looking for fun, and you can almost share the customer inside those four walls… Hopefully they leave the show having so much fun that they want to stay and play with all their friends.”
— Jack Slayton
Jack also dives into why great live entertainment isn’t about hiring a showstopper; it’s about finding an empowering host who can read the room, connect with guests, and bring out the absolute best and funniest in every group.
Key Takeaways
- Human Connection Drives Repeat Visits – Live entertainment guided by charismatic hosts tailors every experience in real time, creating organic inside jokes and lasting memories that software alone cannot replicate.
- Familiar Concepts Lower the Barrier to Entry – Game show formats require zero customer education because guests immediately recognize the rules and leap straight into the action.
- Talent Sourcing Is Easier Than Operators Expect – Sourcing talent from local comedy groups, theater communities, or passionate professionals provides reliable hosts who naturally recruit their peers and boost staff retention.
- Interactive Attractions Boost Cross-Venue Spend – Hosted group experiences act as anchor draws that increase overall venue dwell time and cross-promote secondary attractions like bowling, food, and beverage.
Join us at Amusement 360
The Amusement 360 Event (hosted by Action Lab Leadership and Creative Works) is the perfect place to learn the best strategies, connect with others in the industry, and create momentum in your business.
