Best Brandon Willey Podcasts (2025)

1
Sound Off #96 - Clawcade Boom Or Bust, Netflix+AMC, C-level Shakeups, & more! 47:43

Play Pause

4d ago47:43

47:43

Sponsored by Intercard! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode we start off debating the clawcade surge, asking where these crane-only venues work, when they fail, and how branding and location shape outcomes. Then we track major shifts across immersive free-roam, cinema–streaming tie-ups, leadership changes at big park groups, and the rise of…

1
Entertainment Social Arena #13 - Entertainment's Private Event 19:04

4d ago19:04

19:04

Investors should note that private event and party business in social entertainment venues now account for over 40% of revenue, driven by evolving consumer preferences from Millennials to Gen Z. Key sectors include mixed-use entertainment, socializing, and immersive experiences, with venues like Merlin, Gravity MAX, and Lucky Strike expanding their…

1
The LBX Show #50 - Meow Wolf's digital twin, Level99's Disney risk, D&D, and more! 1:08:00

6d ago1:08:00

1:08:00

Sponsored by Intercard! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode, we unpack a fast-moving month for leading up to IAAPA: from our hidden speakeasy on the show floor to Give Kids the World charity runs to Meow Wolf’s digital twin strategy, a Dungeons and Dragons immersive quest, and the trade-offs between giant single-format builds and mixed-use …

1
The Stinger Report #1250 - European Entertainment Bizarre - Part 2 19:19

9d ago19:19

19:19

In this second part, the IAAPA Expo Europe 2025 highlighted key trends shaping the entertainment industry, notably the rapid growth of immersive XR technologies like projection mapping and body tracking, with active entertainment platforms expanding across FECs, hotels, and venues. The show underscored the gamification of racing, socializing, and a…

1
The Stinger Report #1249 - European Entertainment Bizarre - Part 1 16:40

11d ago16:40

16:40

Leading investors should note that the European amusement sector’s latest trade events highlight significant shifts toward XR, VR, and immersive media, despite slowing consumer VR adoption. Innovations like Hero Zone’s Terminator VR, SEGA’s interactive ride systems, and VEX’s non-headset XR platforms reflect a move toward longer-term, revenue-drive…

1
Sound Off #95 - Transmedia LBE, Olympic Hedgehog, Zombies, and more! 41:48

11d ago41:48

41:48

Sponsored by Intercard! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode we discuss the idea that amusement and location-based entertainment must think like transmedia businesses, using brand collaborations, smart memberships, and flexible programming to drive visits and resilience. Then, as we continue to dive into trends from tariff shocks to XR’s nex…

1
The LBX Show #49 - Fall Promotion Strategy, Dinos for Sale, Universal Kids, & more! 1:17:40

13d ago1:17:40

1:17:40

Sponsored by Intercard! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode, Clint Novak joins for a Guest Gab to discuss how to turn a “slow” season into a growth window with early Black Friday planning, smarter inventory, and signature events that bring families back. Along the way, we track market shifts, new attractions, and arcade releases, and honor …

1
The Stinger Report #1248 - Entertainment Break Out 17:08

16d ago17:08

17:08

Leading investors should note a dynamic shift in the international leisure entertainment sector, marked by increased M&A activity, notably GENDA’s expansion into Western markets and strategic partnerships in Japan, alongside a resurgence of touchscreen game terminals and new immersive formats like dual- and screen-deluxe cabinets. The industry face…

1
The Stinger Report #1247 - The Hyperscape Reality – Part 2 14:20

18d ago14:20

14:20

Leading investors should note a shifting landscape in XR, with Samsung advancing a high-priced MR headset targeting prosumers, alongside AR glasses leveraging Qualcomm and Google tech. Consumer VR faces slowdown, with delays and uncertain releases for Valve’s Deckard and Pimax’s headset, amid waning interest from AAA studios. Conversely, the locati…

1
Sound Off #94 - Nostalgiatainment, Brand Licensing EU Review, and more! 50:18

18d ago50:18

50:18

Sponsored by Intercard! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode we explore how “legacy” can be leverage, not a limit, and why nostalgia only works when it fuels the next wave of experiences. From Disney’s soft attendance to Netflix House pricing, we break down what’s hype, what’s working, and what operators should adjust now. • leveraging legac…

1
The LBX Show #48 - TopGolf's PlayMore, Gravitar Recharged, and much more! 1:29:13

20d ago1:29:13

1:29:13

Sponsored by Intercard! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode BW lays out the FEC Education opportunities at IAAPA Expo in Orlando and joins John Keys from Centeredge as they discuss how memberships become revenue engines. Then we scan global openings, preview new arcade releases, and share a simple, repeatable promo system that keeps guests …

1
The Stinger Report #1246 - The Hyperscape Reality – Part 1 14:15

23d ago14:15

14:15

The September XR consumer landscape showcased a mixed outlook, with Apple notably absent of significant advancements in its Spatial Computing platform, disappointing supporters and causing a market dip post-event amid no new hardware announcements or substantial app support, signaling a slow start for their Vision Pro system. Meanwhile, Meta’s CONN…

1
Sound Off #93 - New XR & AR concepts, UK Park Expansion, and more! 54:51

25d ago54:51

54:51

Sponsored by Intercard! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode we challenge the LBE industry to build real education and standards while tracking major shifts—from Orlando softness and capital moves to AR sports, IP consolidation, and the line between tech promise and operational reality. Practical lessons emerge on spectatorship, repeatabilit…

1
The Stinger Report #1245 – The Location-Based Entertainment Dilemma 14:09

25d ago14:09

14:09

As autumn approaches, investors are eyeing the resurgence of Location-Based Entertainment (LBE), yet echoes of the 1990s boom and bust are unmistakable. Historically, large-scale urban entertainment centers and immersive attractions—ranging from early digital arcades to blockbuster branded venues—faced cyclical overinvestment and market saturation.…

1
The LBX Show #47 - Brass Ring Deadline, AI image snafus, pedal kart VR, and more! 39:21

27d ago39:21

39:21

Sponsored by Intercard! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode, we cover the deadline for IAAPA's Brass Ring Award submissions for the top FEC and LBE of the year award, a court decision that rattles waivers for minors, and why brand clarity matters more than ever for LBEs and FECs. We also call out a launch-day website miss, spotlight a smart…

1
Behind Our Doors #8 - Do The Beach: Where Adventure Meets Beach Vibes 57:13

1M ago57:13

57:13

Sponsored by Intercard! Sponsored by Alan-1! Do the Beach introduces a brand new indoor beach-themed inflatable adventure park concept where giant sandcastle slides meet wipeout-style attractions in an immersive environment. Mike Whincup, COO of Do the Beach Franchising, takes us on a behind-the-scenes tour of their first location in North Port, Fl…

1
Entertainment Social Arena #12 - Retail Embraces Competition - Part 2 11:32

1M ago11:32

11:32

In our second part, this report highlights key trends in retailtainment, focusing on immersive and social experiences within retail spaces. Notable developments include Immersive Gamebox’s expansion across the GCC via a franchise deal, and large-scale venues like Texas’s upcoming 150,000 sq. ft. entertainment center, opening in 2026. Growth is driv…

1
Sound Off #92 - Trade Show value debate, Lego and ROLLER acquisitions, and more! 49:06

1M ago49:06

49:06

Sponsored by Intercard! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode we debate the value of exhibiting at trade shows, highlighting how companies must carefully evaluate their exhibition strategy and clear objectives before investing in booth space. • Making smart decisions about trade show participation based on what you want to achieve • H1B visa …

1
Entertainment Social Arena #11 - Retail Embraces Competition - Part 1 11:36

1M ago11:36

11:36

In our first part, this report highlights the rapid growth of retailtainment, with major players like Frasers Group investing in leisure experiences such as VR, social gaming, and active entertainment to revitalize mall spaces and attract Gen Z customers. Abandoned department stores are being repurposed into entertainment hubs like indoor theme par…

1
The LBX Show #46 - Lego's LBE moves, IAAPA EU debrief, CEC's book, and more! 1:07:44

1M ago1:07:44

1:07:44

Sponsored by Intercard! Sponsored by Alan-1! On this week's episode we dive into the major news and developments from IAAPA Expo Europe 2025, explore LEGO's $270 million acquisition of all LEGOLAND Discovery Centers, and provide essential Q4 holiday promotion strategies. • LEGO acquires all 29 LEGOLAND Discovery Centers from Merlin Entertainment fo…

1
Entertainment Social Arena #10 - London Mall Entertainment Impact – Part 2 8:49

1M ago8:49

8:49

In this second part, investors note London's evolving social entertainment scene, especially within Westfield malls like Stratford City. Key developments include innovative venues such as the sports-focused Bat and Ball, Gravity MAX’s multi-level theme park with VR and karting, and the new F1 BOX racing simulators targeting casual players. These of…

1
Sound Off #91 - Karting experiences slow down, D&B reverses course, and more! 40:20

1M ago40:20

40:20

Sponsored by Intercard! The location-based entertainment industry evolves as venues adapt to changing consumer preferences and adopt new technologies. Karting experiences shift from high-speed racing to slower, more accessible gamified attractions without helmets. • Traditional karting transforms with digital elements and e-karts to create more soc…

1
Entertainment Social Arena #9 - London Mall Entertainment Impact – Part 1 11:10

1M ago11:10

11:10

In this first part, we look at London emerging as a hub for competitive socializing and social entertainment, targeting Millennials and Gen Z. Key developments include the integration of entertainment such as bowling, mini-golf, VR, and sports-themed venues within major malls like Westfield London. Notable concepts include All Star Lanes, PuttShack…

1
The LBX Show #45 - Do The Beach opens, major Sega news, and more! 59:06

1M ago59:06

59:06

Sponsored by Intercard! On this week's LBX Show, BW and friends discuss how the location-based entertainment industry shows signs of recalibration with a slowdown in new openings while established brands pursue ambitious expansion plans and technology integrations reshape arcade experiences. We review industry developments including Sega's leadersh…

1
Entertainment Social Arena #8 - Retro Arcades’ Social Revolution – Part 2 17:55

2M ago17:55

17:55

This second report highlights the rapid growth of retro social entertainment venues globally, including new "BarCades" and arcades across North America, Europe, and Australia. Key trends include a surge in diverse operators, the challenge of sourcing vintage hardware, and legal issues surrounding IP and emulation. Hospitality venues are integrating…

1
Sound Off #90 - Arcade VR falters, can Gen Alpha save cinema, and more! 1:08:31

2M ago1:08:31

1:08:31

Sponsored by Intercard! On this week's Sound Off with Kevin Williams we examine the evolving landscape of location-based entertainment, from terminology debates to financial challenges and technological innovations. The episode explores how traditional experiences are being reimagined through gamification, VR evolution, and the resurgence of mall a…

1
The LBX Show #44 - Mall Entertainment, Pinstripes BK, Kiddleton growth, and more! 33:20

2M ago33:20

33:20

Sponsored by Intercard! On this week's LBX Show, BW starts with News You Should Know and shares his experience at the International Adventure and Trampoline Park Association Annual Convention and IntelliPlay's reception of the Innovation Excellence Award. Then Kevin Williams dives into the latest openings and closings in the industry. • FastTrax op…

1
Entertainment Social Arena #7 - Retro Arcades’ Social Revolution – Part 1 16:35

2M ago16:35

16:35

This first part of the report highlights the resurgence of retro arcade venues driven by nostalgia and social engagement, targeting audiences from Gen Z to older enthusiasts. Key trends include the rise of established chains like Barcade and UK’s NQ64, alongside emerging brands such as Cobra Arcade and Continue Arcades, expanding through franchisin…

1
Sound Off #89 - Gen Z abandons gaming, Genda & Hero Zone acquisitions, and more! 1:08:35

2M ago1:08:35

1:08:35

Sponsored by Intercard! On this week's Sound Off with Kevin Williams we discuss how the location-based entertainment landscape is transforming as Gen Z abandons video games for social experiences, driving significant industry shifts and strategic acquisitions. Economic pressures, including tariffs and shipping challenges, force companies to adapt w…

1
The LBX Show #43 - Guest Gab with Rob Morgan, Arcade News, and more! 1:23:45

2M ago1:23:45

1:23:45

Sponsored by Intercard! On this week's show Brandon and Kevin join Rob Morgan, author of "Storytelling for Spatial Computing and Mixed Reality: The Art of Augmenting Imagination" and lead narrative designer at Wake the Tiger in London for a Guest Gab segment exploring the art of storytelling and spatial computing. • Shifting from VR to AR storytell…

1
Entertainment Social Arena #6 - Social Sports Explosion - Part 2 14:05

2M ago14:05

14:05

This second report looks at the rapid growth of “Sportainment,” blending active, immersive, and gamified experiences across venues worldwide. Innovations include AR-enhanced virtual sports, interactive projection walls, and hybrid venues combining traditional sports with digital technology, such as golf simulators, trampoline parks, and social dart…

1
The Stinger Report #1244 - Embracing Asian Entertainment 11:52

2M ago11:52

11:52

Asian influence continues to reshape the Out-of-Home entertainment landscape, offering lucrative opportunities through Japanese brands, IP collaborations, and innovative retailtainment concepts. Notable developments include Sony's strategic alliance with BANDAI NAMCO to leverage anime and manga IP, expansion of Japanese-themed venues like Round 1 i…

1
Sound Off #88 - The Kidult Revolution, CEC Adventure World, and more! 53:41

2M ago53:41

53:41

Sponsored by Intercard! On this week's Sound Off with Kevin Williams, BW and Kevin explore the growing influence of "kidults" in the location-based entertainment industry and how their spending habits are reshaping business models. This demographic shift is forcing operators to rethink their attraction mix, F&B offerings, and overall venue design t…

1
The LBX Show #42 - Ripley's Crazy Golf, Merlin Magic Making, and more! 1:03:04

2M ago1:03:04

1:03:04

Sponsored by Intercard! On this week's LBX Show, BW dives into the latest location-based entertainment news including Ripley's new glow-in-the-dark mini golf at Icon Park and Merlin's rapid development of two new immersive experiences. Kevin Williams joins us for Open and Shut and Chuck DeMonte discusses the concept of value in attractions marketin…

1
Entertainment Social Arena #5 - Social Sports Explosion - Part 1 12:41

2M ago12:41

12:41

The evolving sports social entertainment sector, driven by "Sportainment" and SSE, is experiencing rapid growth through immersive active experiences like cricket, baseball, and soccer simulations. Key trends include venue expansions, innovative gamified sports tech, and strategic investments, notably in chains like SIXES, Batbox, and TOCA Social, w…

1
Sound Off #87 - Pricing Problems, Entertainment Districts, FOG Gaming, and more! 1:05:54

2M ago1:05:54

1:05:54

Sponsored by Intercard! On this week's episode of Sound Off with Kevin Williams we explore how location-based entertainment venues are fundamentally mispricing their offerings, with inconsistent strategies for their attractions compared to their standardized food pricing approaches. • Significant pricing inconsistencies exist across entertainment o…

1
The Stinger Report #1243 - Defining XR Landscape 10:30

2M ago10:30

10:30

The VR and XR industry is undergoing a significant shift marked by widespread hardware and content abandonment, driven by escalating costs and shifting corporate strategies. Major players like Meta, Microsoft, and Magic Leap are retreating from consumer-focused VR, with support for key headsets and IPs withdrawn or scaled back. Meanwhile, enterpris…

1
The LBX Show #41 - Dog Days of Summer, Association News, Google Ad tips, and more! 53:57

3M ago53:57

53:57

Sponsored by Intercard! On this week's episode of The LBX Show we share new industry association partnerships and market developments during the traditional summer slowdown of the dog days of August. Kevin Williams, Adam Pratt, and Chuck DeMonte join host Brandon Wiley to explore the latest FEC innovations and marketing strategies. • Fun Across Ame…

1
Sound Off #86 - The Hidden Risk with Redemption, Big Brand pivots, and more! 38:49

3M ago38:49

38:49

Sponsored by Intercard! On this episode of Sound Off with Kevin Williams we examine the industry's dependence on redemption games, questioning whether the FEC business model is vulnerable to potential regulatory or cultural backlash against what critics might call "kiddie casinos." • Most FECs lack viable alternatives should redemption games face r…

1
The LBX Show #40 - ROLLER Pulse Report, Merchandising Insights, and more! 1:20:56

3M ago1:20:56

1:20:56

Sponsored by Intercard! On this week's LBX Show, Kalyn New, VP of Product and Customer Marketing at ROLLER, joins us to discuss their inaugural 2025 Pulse Report that surveyed 2,000 attraction guests across the US, UK, and Australia to uncover what guests truly want from venues. • 90% of guests want self-service options at venues, aligning with ope…

1
Sound Off #85 - Setting Guest Expectations, Tariff Impacts on Travel, and more! 1:02:36

3M ago1:02:36

1:02:36

Sponsored by Intercard! On this week's Change My Mind segment, Kevin and Brandon debate how the entertainment industry fails to properly communicate experiences to guests, creating disappointment when reality doesn't match marketing promises, while economic headwinds further challenge the sector. • Poor guest experience communication threatens venu…

1
The LBX Show #39 - Special Edition: State of the Industry Guest Gab 1:05:32

3M ago1:05:32

1:05:32

Sponsored by Intercard! On this week's episode Brandon joins Kevin Williams and Adam Pratt for a special edition Guest Gab to discuss the upheaval by major brands in the entertainment industry as they struggle with financial challenges and shifting market dynamics. • Pinstripes faces bankruptcy protection with potential closure of all 18 locations …

1
The Reveal #8 - DOF Robotics: Motion Simulation Mastery 54:28

3M ago54:28

54:28

Sponsored by Intercard! On The Reveal, we pull back the curtain on DOF Robotics, exploring their journey from manual simulators to award-winning immersive experiences across 60 countries with CEO Bakut Baydaliev. • Tour through DOF Robotics' Istanbul headquarters featuring their creative lounge, academy, manufacturing facility, and design departmen…

1
The Stinger Report #1242 - Shaping the New Audience – Part 2 17:49

3M ago17:49

17:49

Our comprehensive review of IBE’25 highlights a pivotal shift in the XR landscape within the out-of-home entertainment sector, especially in bowling-centric venues. While VR’s prominence has waned, reflected by fewer showcases and diminished enthusiasm, mixed reality (MR) and gamified active attractions are gaining traction. Exhibitors like RacePar…

1
Sound Off #84 - Elvis Evolution backlash, Batting Cage 2.0, LED Floors, and more! 49:33

3M ago49:33

49:33

Sponsored by Intercard! On this week's episode, Kevin Williams and Brandon Willey discuss the evolution of batting cage experiences, questioning whether "Batting Cage 2.0" concepts will succeed in the competitive social entertainment landscape. They explore how accessibility is the critical factor for success, with Home Run Dugout leading the pack …

1
The LBX Show #38 - BW visits Harkins Backlot, Resident Evil 2, Meta ads, and more! 1:06:16

3M ago1:06:16

1:06:16

Sponsored by Intercard! On this week's episode BW visits Harkins Theatres' new FEC concept, Backlot, with a discussion on how theater chains are evolving to compete in the entertainment landscape. • Harkins Backlot in North Phoenix combines bowling, crazy darts, and arcade elements with subtle movie-themed design touches • The venue features an imp…

1
Entertainment Social Arena #4 - Movie Magic Drives Entertainment 20:37

3M ago20:37

20:37

Highlighting the surge in "Cinetainment," where social entertainment venues blend cinema, streaming IP, and experiential attractions. Major theater chains are investing over $2.2 billion to modernize with attractions like amusement arcades, bowling, and immersive social experiences. Companies like Es Vedra Cinemas are rebranding venues (e.g., Hooky…

1
The Stinger Report #1241 - Shaping the New Audience – Part 1 14:52

3M ago14:52

14:52

Leading investors should note a dynamic shift in the amusement and bowling sectors as 2024 concludes, highlighted by a surge in innovation, venue openings, and evolving revenue models. The International Bowl Expo 2025 showcased a pivot toward boutique, social, and experiential entertainment, with amusement manufacturers emphasizing tech-driven attr…

1
Sound Off #83 - Cinetainment expansion, AI eatertainment, and more! 45:26

3M ago45:26

45:26

Sponsored by Intercard! Kevin Williams and Brandon Willey explore whether traditional gaming facilities can thrive in our new social entertainment landscape, arguing that the solitary nature of gambling contradicts the social experiences modern venues aim to create. • Cinema chains like B&B Theatres, Evo, and Synergy are aggressively expanding into…

1
The LBX Show #37 - D&B New CEO, Hyperbole, ROLLER's Pulse Report, and more! 57:05

3M ago57:05

57:05

Sponsored by Intercard! On this week's episode BW extends News You Should Know to discuss the new leadership at Dave & Buster's, the overuse of hyperbolic language to hype entertainment concepts, and the struggles of free-play arcades without strong monetization models among other topics. • IAAPA Foundation FEC Scholarship offers $2,500 to cover ex…