Speaker 1: 0:03

Well, hello. This is Kimberly Brock, and for over 20 years I've been running my own businesses that have not only been profitable but personally fulfilling to me. So now I'm on a mission to help other new business owners, just like you, make money doing what you love to. Now we're gonna have some fun, so let's get started.

Speaker 2: 0:25

Now we're going to have some fun, so let's get started. Well, hello, this is Kimberly. It's episode 291, and I am so glad that you are here today because you are in for a massive treat. I have the one and only Amanda Richardson, with when in the Park, on the show today. I'm so excited to share her with you. She has been literally a star student. I think she's been in every single one of my programs, including coaching and everything. It's been awesome. I've gotten to know her very well. I've watched all of her progress and I was like Amanda, you have to be on the show. I have to share you with the world.

Speaker 2: 1:00

They make, seek and find games for theme parks. They're self-paced games that you do to appreciate the parks more and run around, and it's not just about the rides and the shows and the churros Y'all. At theme parks like Disney and other ones, you can be learning more about the history and just cool things about the park that you may never have noticed, and that's what they offer. It's really neat. Her whole story is shared today and you hear how it started in one way and then it evolved to where it is today, and you get to hear how she has just totally like gained confidence in herself and her business because she has done the groundwork. Now, as I said, she's been in all my programs. She's in GrowGetters and she talks about how you know she is honed in on our messaging and and how she's showing up consistently and what she's saying and all that good stuff, and I'm just so excited for her that she actually did the work inside the program and it's paying off big time. So you're going to hear all of that in here today. Listen all the way through. Do not miss anything. Do not miss a minute. It's power packed all the way to the end. She's giving you advice that you can't live without. That you need to hear and it's going to motivate you and excite you for your business, whether you have a product business or service business.

Speaker 2: 2:19

Now, real quick, if you're new here, welcome. I'm so glad you found this podcast. You found this on a great day. You're going to learn so much from Amanda today and that's why I had her on the show. But in the meantime, too, make sure you get all your free goodies.

Speaker 2: 2:32

If you're new here, scroll down in the show notes. I've got a 16-step checklist. If you're starting your business, I have a free workshop. If you're trying to get your business off the ground and growing and you're like, how do I do this? And also if you're starting a podcast, I have resources for you. So y'all check everything out below, get your hands on it. Also. Below is all the information about Amanda and when in the Park and you can click on those you know. Subscribe to her emails, get on the list. You're going to want to, because it's just such a cool business and you don't want to miss out on anything that she's sharing.

Speaker 2: 3:00

So, if you've been listening a while, thank you so much to all my loyal listeners, all my GrowGetters, those of you in Passion to Podcast, and just all of you. I'm so thankful for you. And you may know Amanda because, as I said, she's been in all my programs, so you've probably met her. If you've been in one, especially in GrowGetters, you know who she is. So she's on all the calls, she's helping other people, she's doing all this stuff. That's why I had to have her on this show.

Speaker 2: 3:23

She is such a shiny example of what it looks like when you actually have a dream. You pursue it and you do the work. You work really hard to become a really smart and strategic business owner and do things right. And that's where Amanda is today. She's got the confidence, she's got the skills, she's got a great business, and it's so exciting. So I'm so honored to have you on the show, amanda. I'm so glad you went on here and I'm so excited to share Amanda with all of you. So y'all have a listen and I can't wait. Okay, enjoy. Well, amanda, I'm so glad you are here today. This is an awesome day. I cannot tell you how much I have enjoyed getting to know you and just seeing your growth, and I'm just so excited and honored to share you with the world.

Speaker 4: 4:14

Thank you so much. I am so excited to be here. I mean, anytime we get to chat is a good day for me.

Speaker 2: 4:21

So I am honored to be back on the show from me, so I am honored to be back on the show. Yes, it's awesome, and what I think is really cool is that you are so relatable. Your story is just like I mean, everyone's business is different, but your story of how your business evolves is real, and I think this is so good for all the new business owners and even if you're a veteran business owner to hear how a business evolves. Things you go through that are hard. That are good lessons you learn, and Amanda is just a shiny example of perseverance and just keeping focused on how can we do things right, what should be our strategy, what's our strategy right now? What do we do?

Speaker 2: 5:01

And I think you're going to get to hear everything. I want her to share her whole story. So we're going to go through the timeline of her business because this will hit home for you. All of this will hit home how she started and what's happened, and I'm just so excited, amanda, to get to for you to share the story with everyone. So, yeah, it's going to be awesome. So, first of all, we have to know tell us about your passion for theme parks.

Speaker 4: 5:25

We want to hear about that, first and foremost parks we always have and, um, you know, disneyland is right in our, our backyard, not too far from us, and, um, so that's actually how my husband and I met was at disneyland, and so, uh, my mom and I, we lived pretty close to the parks and that was our our night, our mommy daughter date night. Every friday night after work, we would just go over there, um, back when you can just show up at any time, and we would go have dinner, maybe, ride a couple rides and then head home. So we joined a Facebook group. Um, this was back in 2013,. Um, maybe a little bit before that. Uh, we joined a Facebook group called mouse for life.

Speaker 4: 6:35

It is still in existence, there's still thousands of members, but the organizer would put together scavenger hunts that would be very detail oriented and, and you know, be black and white pictures all across the Disneyland Resort, any Disney property, hotel, parking structure, downtown Disney, etc. And you had a hundred pictures, a little over a hundred pictures, black and white, didn't know which way was up, and you had eight hours Good luck, see how many you can find. And so we were part of the winning team. Um, eight or six out of the eight years that they did it. We were part of the winning team six out of the eight times in five years in a row, or five time reigning champs, you and your husband or you and your mom you and your husband yeah.

Speaker 4: 7:23

My husband and I. We were part of the team every year. My mom had to sit out one year, but other than that it was us, and then a friend of ours had to have a minimum of four people.

Speaker 4: 7:35

Okay, got it. And so we to study. We would go to the parks every chance that we could and take pictures of details that we thought might be interesting and be part of the scavenger hunt. And then we would have a little pop quiz you know, where in the park is this, when in the park is this? And then COVID hit and we couldn't get together.

Speaker 4: 7:59

The same way, the reservation system changed, reservation system changed, and so we had that, that fire within us of we love finding the details and we love that that I know that that detail is there and nobody else knows it's there, you know, and having that deeper appreciation for the parks. And now, how do we celebrate that for the parks? And now, how do we celebrate that? How do we provide that same fire to other people on their own schedule? And so we had thousands of images just sitting in our computer hard drives and we decided let's do something similar and having a game that anybody could take to the park at any time and find the details in the theming of the parks. So we first started Wearing the Park in late 2021, and we were creating things that were based off of the details. So we had like coasters, we had magnets, we had all kinds of things that would then come with a card for you to go, take that card to the park and find that detail. Some of those things kind of took off. But in reality people were providing the feedback of okay, that's great, but I just like the game. I don't need a coaster. The game. I don't need a coaster of something that I don't know where it is, you know. And so we're like, okay, well, the game's a lot easier to make than the coasters, so that works. But also we can expand this game to be whatever it is that we want it want for it to be. We can make it as challenging or as simple as we want.

Speaker 4: 9:46

And so that idea really took off from listening to our customers and figuring out who our ideal customers were. They weren't just Disney enthusiasts but they were like actual Disney people who wanted to find out more about the history of the parks and find something that they hadn't experienced before, not just a keepsake thing that they could have at their house. So it was fine-tuning who our niche really were and trying to put ourselves into their shoes. Um, in in what would be fun for us and what would be fun for them. So, um, our, our games have evolved over time, um, again based off of feedback that we've received from from customers. So, um, the gameplay has changed. Um, each uh pack has a deck of cards. Each card has a detail that is found in the theming of the park, and then we have hints, answers and the land. Previously it was available with a scratch off sticker and now it's with a qr code. We've changed the, the, the, the context of the play to be more dynamic. We can add things or edit things.

Speaker 2: 11:06

Oh yeah, that's smart with the qr codes.

Speaker 4: 11:08

That's really smart, yeah yeah, so we now have 18 theme parks under our belts okay and over 60 skews um, because we have bundles and we have multiple game packs per park and it has been so much fun to not only put these games together for people but to receive that feedback. I keep going back to the feedback because it warms my heart so much when we receive the feedback of you've changed my theme park experience forever in the best of ways. I now go to the parks looking for these images and when I find that last image that has been like bugging me forever I know where it is, I know where it is and I finally found it I feel like I just ran a marathon, Like I have that just elated feeling and it just warms my heart so much that, like we made that happen.

Speaker 4: 12:09

You know, like our seemingly silly little game changed the park experience for them forever, and that is such a lasting feeling for all of us.

Speaker 2: 12:21

Oh, it's so great, I love hearing it. So, just to explain for anyone who has never heard of this, they don't really understand what you're talking about. About the game you provide. You sell cards, okay. They get like a card pack that is specific to a certain theme park, so like Disneyland California or Disney World or any of the. You said 16 parks, 18 parks, 18 parks, 18 parks, okay. So, 18 parks, 18 parks, 18 parks, okay, so, 18 parks that you've done this for, and they have clues to something you can find. So they're a seek and find game and you're not going to pick up anything or collect anything. You're going. And then what do you do when you find it? Do you take a picture, do you? What do you do?

Speaker 4: 12:58

Yeah, so, um, you, you can do a couple of things. You can take a picture, and we always encourage that. You tag us on Instagram or Facebook at we're in the Park, or you can. We always love when customers will send us a picture of a different detail, like somewhere nearby or something like that, and try and stump us.

Speaker 4: 13:17

That's always fun, but it's just the satisfaction of finding that image. So, in reality, you don't need to do anything once you've found the image, but it's just finding out more about it, like why is that there? And that curiosity will build and you can make the game as laid back or as competitive as you'd like. You can stop and start whenever you'd like, as you'd like. You can stop and start whenever you'd like. You can play solo date nights with your family younger kids, older kids, you know, reunions, whatever you want to do. We even have some that will buy two of the same pack and then split off into different groups and make it a competitive one-to-one match and so you know, you can choose to reveal the hints and answers if you'd like.

Speaker 4: 14:08

Some, we know, have set a timer. There's no time limit that we instill, you know. But some have said, okay, if I can't find this in 15 minutes, I'm going to reveal the land. I can't find it within five minutes of that, I'm going to, you know, reveal the hint.

Speaker 4: 14:24

And then can't find it within five minutes of that, I'm going to you know, reveal the hint and then so it's just. However you decide to play, which is what we love about the game. It's not one size fits all. You can really customize it however you'd like, and even play over months or years if you wanted to.

Speaker 2: 14:40

Yes, yes, it's so cool. So I just have to ask too. I know you had mentioned in the beginning that you and your husband would be like oh, let's find where in the park this is. How exactly did you have that moment? Or did you have a moment when you were naming the business? So for anyone out there that is trying to figure out a name because this can be really hard for some people other people it just comes right to them what was your story about when you named it?

Speaker 4: 15:03

Yeah, so I think it was because we were constantly saying it. Y'all were just saying it naturally.

Speaker 2: 15:09

Oh, you would say where in the park is that Like, where Like? Yeah it's the best name and so y'all would say it. Yeah, it's fantastic.

Speaker 4: 15:23

And so we always ask you know, where in the park do you think this image is? You know, we try and say that as much as possible and I think in the beginning we were like, ok, we want it to be something that they're naturally going to say and there's no confusion Like where in the park you are finding things in the park right? Confusion like we're in the park, you are finding things in the park right. So, as we were saying, our, our messaging, and our, our sales pitch, if you will.

Speaker 4: 15:51

Um, you know. We say you know each. Each pack has a deck of cards. Each card has an image found in the theming of the park. The question is where in the park? Yeah, it's a double meaning. It's not only a standalone question, but it's also the name of the game.

Speaker 2: 16:07

Right.

Speaker 4: 16:09

And our logo is the, where in the and park are three separate areas within the Disneyland Resort. So the fonts are actually where. If you went to the park right now, it would be that same font. Oh okay, I didn't even realize that right now.

Speaker 2: 16:24

It would be that same font. Oh, okay, I didn't even realize that.

Speaker 4: 16:28

Yeah, it's very subtle.

Speaker 2: 16:30

Yeah, I think park people, park goers and enthusiasts I love that word, enthusiasts the enthusiasts would know this. People that are obsessed with Disney would probably know this kind of stuff. But I think that's what's so cool, is? You know, everyone like you and I have joked before like we love the parks for the rides and the churros. Okay, so let's not forget about the churros.

Speaker 2: 16:53

But there is so much more to be had, so much more to learn the history, and if you really enjoy the parks, there is more to do than just the rides and the food, and I think that's what's cool.

Speaker 2: 17:00

That you and Kevin and your mom, Kim, have really done is just help people see, oh my gosh, there's so much more to it, and even just like fonts being different and history of things and signs and all that, there is just so much to nerd out on and I love it, and I think it's so cool that there's been stuff. I mean it's just like in life, there's things that are before us that we miss and you didn't even realize that you could be at a park for four days and you may be like I've rode, you know, ridden every ride, but there's so much more to be seen, so y'all had that moment. I'm just trying to go back again because I want to take everybody from that moment when y'all are like, okay, we should actually start our own business doing this, Like what happened, and you said this is going to be the name and this is how we're starting.

Speaker 4: 17:42

I know it yeah, um, we, I think it was because we had so many pictures from the um the, the games that we were playing before.

Speaker 4: 17:58

Covid, yes, okay thousands of pictures, thousands of pictures and it was like okay, well one, what do we do with all these pictures that they're such a great archive of the park as it stands today? Because we all know theme parks change every single day. Yeah, um, and so it's really fun to go back and look at. You know the, the old pictures and stuff, but, um, so you're really capturing a moment in theme park time, like in theme park history, and, um, so how do we honor that? And so that's why we created the, the different. I call them like keepsakes I'm not really sure how else to describe them like the coasters, we made necklaces, we made earrings of things that you can find what the images had, the things of things you can find at the theme parks. Um, but again, if people don't know where those things are, yes, they recognized it as something at a theme park, but when asked, well, do you know where in the park you can find this? They're like I don't know, you know.

Speaker 2: 19:00

So we had that shift of we need to turn this into a full-fledged game and make that the focus, not not the merchandise so you were trying to do merchandise that had the cool symbols and things from the park I don't even know what to call them and y'all knew what they were, but not everyone knew the history or what was behind that, the meaning behind it. They just thought it was cool because they're a Disney enthusiast or a park goer and you all realize, oh my gosh, and from the feedback in the very beginning, maybe it's not the stuff that matters, it's that this is actually really fun to go and seek and find it and, you know, scope it out and look at it and learn more about it. So you kind of evolved. And then is this about where you and I met. I'm trying to remember were y'all starting your business and like, were you trying to get it online? And if you did, how did you first bring it online? Did you build your own website? What'd you do?

Speaker 4: 20:02

Yeah, so we started off on Etsy, okay.

Speaker 2: 20:05

Which is great for any of you product sellers.

Speaker 4: 20:07

It's a good way to start. Etsy is a fantastic way to start because you're using their platform to bring in more people. It's a great spot to work on your wording, work on your keywords and your messaging and see what really jives with people. They have the whole message platform and everything, so you can see what's working and what's not and really fine tune, without having to be locked into a website.

Speaker 2: 20:40

Yeah, so awesome yeah.

Speaker 4: 20:43

And it's really low cost. It's like 20 cents per listing and then that auto renews every three months or so and then there's a fee if it sells to quote unquote restock. But all in all, if your margins are such, it is pennies, literal pennies to have a listing up on Etsy. So it's a great way to start. We still have our Etsy shop and, as of this recording, we are one sale shy of 600 sales.

Speaker 2: 21:17

Woo, that's awesome. That's great. Yeah, that's wonderful. So you still have your Etsy shop. So this was in what, 2021, when you started on Etsy, and then were you also building your own website, kind of in the background or no, like what was y'all's plan with that?

Speaker 4: 21:34

Yeah, so we started a website once we started getting serious about being in front of people at live events. Okay, so, we had the square terminal to process credit cards and stuff yes, terminal to process credit cards and stuff, yes, yes. And so we decided okay, well, now is the time to evolve and have our own website also. So I love having two modes of sales. So you have Etsy and you have your own website. Yes.

Speaker 4: 22:06

And then from Etsy, we were using Aweber to collect the emails and have our email system going, which I remember very vividly. When I first started with you and your programs, I was very adamant of like I don't want email, I don't want email.

Speaker 2: 22:25

You don't want to deal with it, let's collect the email.

Speaker 2: 22:28

Yeah, just at least collect them. You don't ever have to send one right now, but there will be a time, and so this is a note to everyone listening no matter how you start, if you start on Etsy, if you start doing live events, if you start building your own website you will need to be sending people emails. It's still the best way to get in touch with people. I know people love social media and everything like that. You just have to know that email is still existent. People still check their email. You need to still be doing it. It may not it's not gonna get 100% views, but it may get 50%, 40%, 30%, even 20% is way better than what social media is getting you.

Speaker 2: 23:05

So, anyways, just wanted to note that and also point out what Amanda did. So they started with Etsy. They said, okay, we're getting more serious, we're doing live events, let's start building our own website. So we have our own real estate on our own domain, domain name whereintheparkcom and we have that. So I think that's super smart, because Etsy number one is super simple to get started.

Speaker 2: 23:30

You can get your feet wet and it's just good to like learn how to start running a business that way, and then you can be saying, okay, am I actually serious about this? Do I want to keep doing this? And if so, you do want your own real estate and you're going to want to probably either have both, like Amanda has done, or shift over. But Etsy, it's his own search engine, so it's its own little ecosystem and it's so awesome for looking for gifts. I don't know if everyone who listens here shops on Etsy, but it's amazing. So, anyways, I always recommend people starting that way to get their feet wet in this. So, amanda, check plus plus on all that Y'all did great. And you start building your website and then you're, as you said, you're using the little square terminal. It's the little plug-in thing so that you can plug it into your phone and take credit cards.

Speaker 2: 24:15

Okay, so you're doing that and you're working on everything and we meet and maybe you were in GrowGetters at that time. And so then what's happening?

Speaker 4: 24:24

Yeah, so I also just want to add real quick so, etsy, if you're just starting off on Etsy, it's a great way to make sure that all of your systems are in alignment. So how are you processing shipping? How are you taking orders? Does your credit card systems work, like all of those things and building your stuff on the back end? How are you organizing orders? How are you connecting with people after they've placed the order? Are you inviting them to next steps? All the things that we talk about in Growgetters and the move method you can do on Etsy, and so I highly recommend, if you are just starting out, to start on Etsy again, low cost to entry and making sure all of your systems are in place so you can really fine tune everything before you invest in getting your own domain name and building your own website and doing all that tech stuff. You already have everything mapped out on the back end. So just wanted to say I'm so glad that we did it that way.

Speaker 2: 25:25

Yes, and one more, Sorry not to interrupt Piggybacking on what you just said.

Speaker 2: 25:30

For anyone that's starting on Etsy and you have dreams of having your own website, go ahead and reserve your domain name. They're usually like $15 a year. So get whereinthebarkcom or whatever you're getting, and even if you don't or you're not using it at the moment, have it because there will be a day you probably will need it. Okay, so, yes, so y'all are at that point. Yes, okay, we did that on everything. So as soon as, like Blue Sky came out as a thing, the social media platform, we instantly went in and claimed it. Is it pictures with text under it?

Speaker 4: 26:18

and videos. Is it the same thing? It pretty much. It's very similar to threads, um, and like a twitter kind of a kind of a thing. Um, it's just another branch, it's like lemonade and all the things. So it's like I.

Speaker 2: 26:30

I just didn't.

Speaker 4: 26:31

I know it's. It's already very saturated and so new platforms are coming up with new social medias, and people who are well versed in a certain platform will move there because it's a new way to get the audience before everybody else does so yes, I don't know, but you reserved it.

Speaker 2: 26:51

We reserved it. Maybe I need to be reserving my name on everything. It's probably too late, okay. Okay, so you did all that, which was awesome, yeah.

Speaker 4: 27:00

So we had Square for a number of years and then we just outgrew. It is really what it came down to. So we use the, the square website, in the square platform because we were already using the square terminal during our live events and so we thought that's the natural progression of things and we were really focusing on driving people to our website and not to our Etsy shop. Let Etsy algorithm do its thing and driving people to you. When you are talking about your business, you direct them to your website. So we were doing that at live events and all of the things, and we were using their email platforms. We switched from Aweber to Square Marketing and that was helpful for a time and it just got to the point where we outgrew it and there were some features that I really wanted to take things to the next level that Square didn't really support at the plan that we were on, and so just a couple of months ago, we switched from Square to Shopify. I love Shopify.

Speaker 2: 28:16

I'm a Shopify fan. I do too.

Speaker 4: 28:17

And in full transparency. I wish we would have gone with Shopify first instead of Square. You can still have the Square little terminal thing to process credit cards, have the square little terminal thing to process credit cards, um, but shopify has that as well, and I feel like square is more for the brick and mortar who want to have an online presence, and not for the e-commerce business who also does live events, so it's more tailored to that market. So, being the fact that we are mostly online, with the occasional in-person sale, shopify has been fabulous. There is a high learning curve with it. There's a lot of code and stuff, but the support on Shopify has really been amazing. So, even if you're not well-versed in software, code and stuff like that, there's templates and all kinds of free resources to use the platform. So it's been awesome.

Speaker 2: 29:29

I loved it too. I used them for my online gift boutiques for years and years, so I'm a big fan and we did even monogramming and personalization worked so well for all those they call them custom options that people can do to configure things for your, for your products. So Shopify is great for product sellers. So maybe even out of the gate, everyone should consider that. Just jump right into that and, just you know, bite the bullet and start taking that on because the support is really good. Okay, so y'all started migrating to Shopify.

Speaker 4: 30:04

Yeah, and I think it's really important to know wherever you're at in your business. Know wherever you're at in your business. We gained this clarity, this realization, because we took action. So you don't need to have all of these aha moments before you take action and it's in the process of doing that you're going to find out what's working and what's not working. You're going to, you know, figure out your messaging and your product photos and all of that because you took action and just put something out there, put something on paper, and then you can fine tune. Getting ready to get ready, to get ready is it's going to overwhelm you.

Speaker 4: 30:48

It just is. But being proactive, just doing something every day and putting yourself out there, then you can fine tune and figure out what's working, what's not, by evaluating your results, as, as we always talk about.

Speaker 2: 31:07

So y'all started on Etsy. You also have your website on your own domain. You do local vendor shows. You travel to other locations to do shows at other parks, or what are y'all doing right now to get exposure for your business?

Speaker 4: 31:23

Yeah, so all of the above, we have our website. Whenever we are at theme parks, which is quite often because that's where our people are One, two, we are always at the parks to confirm our images are still there, and so whenever we're at the parks, we're wearing something with our logo on it. Like I know listeners can't see me right now, but I'm wearing my sweatshirt that has our logo. It is massive on our sweatshirts. We have hats that have our logos and when all three of us on the wear in the park team, when we are all wearing this same sweatshirt, I cannot tell you the number of people we walk by who are looking at our sweatshirts and we've gotten sales and I always ask like how'd you, how'd you hear about us? And and people have said I just saw you in the parks with your sweatshirts.

Speaker 2: 32:13

What so like you didn't even talk to him and they just Yep, it's just, it's what is massive in their face.

Speaker 4: 32:20

Yeah, and so because they're like, wait a minute, we're in the park and it says we're in the park games to play at theme parks, and it has at we're in the park to find us on all the socials and where in the park dot com. So it is right there, they have three points to check us out. Because all three of us are wearing something logoed and yeah, wow and orders. Just just by what, we didn't have to say a word because our website has everything that they need to know and we are directing them. And even so, like when we were at the parks last weekend, people were like where's the park? Where's the park? Because they've seen us either before or they've heard about us from somewhere.

Speaker 2: 33:03

Oh my gosh, You're a celebrity. You're totally a fan. We're turning into a celebrity.

Speaker 4: 33:07

It's nuts. It's crazy.

Speaker 2: 33:10

I love it. Well, I mean, it's just smart because I think you're where your buyers are. Why not?

Speaker 4: 33:17

wear it.

Speaker 2: 33:17

I mean, everyone should have something on, like, if you're doing a show or something, you need to be advertising your business. But I think in your situation it's perfect. So you're at the parks, people see you. You're checking out the parks, people see you there. Where are you doing vendor shows and stuff?

Speaker 4: 33:34

Yeah, so wherever there is an event that is Disney focused, so the ones that we are at every single year is the Disney Anna Fan Club or the DFC Expo. That happens twice a year and that is local here to Southern California in the Orange County area. This time it's in Irvine. That's on June 1st. So if you're in the Irvine, california area June 1st come on down. And what's it?

Speaker 2: 34:04

called again, so my listeners know.

Speaker 4: 34:07

It's the DFC Expo. If you just go to at where in the park, you'll have all the details right there.

Speaker 2: 34:13

Okay, and they can come by your booth and see. So it's a Disney Expo that has booths that are anything related to Disney. Yeah, so what kind of stuff?

Speaker 4: 34:21

Like oh, there's all kinds of things. There are people who are reselling things that were at the park, so like Disney popcorn buckets and pins and all that. There's a lot of pin trading. Um. There are people who are um small business owners, like we are, and they are selling um their. Their things are good friends um dave and janie lee. They have um slides like kodak slides that they've taken pictures around the parks and they they backlight um they have a little like little light in the back.

Speaker 4: 34:52

So it's highlighting those details of the parks too. There's lounge, fly bags, there's literally everything under the sun, collector's items, and it's just. It's so much fun and it happens twice a year, once in the spring, once in the fall, so we're always at that. Mouse Con is another one, and that is in Concord, california, in November and then in Bakersfield in January. And so those two events or I guess, four events throughout the year, those are the ones that we are constantly at. So people know it'll be like our third or fourth year, so six or seven times that we have been at this event. And so by doing that, by finding an event that really works for you and your audience and then consistently showing up there, I cannot tell you the number of times people have bypassed other booths because they want to get to our booth first and they're like yes, you're back and chances are because you've been there before.

Speaker 4: 35:55

If you find the spot that works for you, you'll be at that same spot, and so that is really important, because your ideal customers will know exactly where to find you in the room, right? So if you happen to be at a different location, that's totally fine. They'll find you eventually by working, working the room. But if you are at the exact same spot that you were last time, they already know where to go and and so to have that, that next item in the sales funnel, ready to roll and be like oh awesome, so glad to see you. How are you doing? Funnel ready to roll and be like oh awesome, so glad to see you. How are you doing? And connect with them before the rest of the room gets there and they're eagerly excited about your product. They're bringing their friends, it's amazing.

Speaker 2: 36:40

It's amazing. I love it. And just watching you over the years, I know to just to point out to all my listeners that you can try shows that may not be your target market. So I wondered if you would just expand on that a little bit, because I know you've done a lot of shows and we've all done shows. I did them with my product businesses and some I was like I will never be back to have a booth at this show because I didn't get the right kind of clientele for what I was selling. So I was wondering if you could talk about that, so that people can not be discouraged if they head to a show that doesn't work, but also start putting themselves out there so they can find the right shows. So, anyways, I wonder if you could touch on that.

Speaker 4: 37:21

Absolutely so, in 2023, especially, we spent a lot of time at more local craft time at more local craft arts and crafts fairs.

Speaker 4: 37:38

So not disney related, not theme park related, just just random, different craft fairs, okay, yeah, and the idea at the beginning of the year was let's just cast a wide net. Anything that's you know local in the Southern California area, particularly closer to Disney, let's go there and see what happens. So, a lot of those events, we either did not make our booth fee back or just barely made our booth fee back and certainly didn't pay for any gas or hotel or meals. Certainly didn't pay for any gas or hotel or meals. So very, very, very low sales at these events. And at first it was gut-wrenching because you're like oh, I put so much work into this. You know, we made all the inventory.

Speaker 4: 38:25

But at the same time, each event is a learning opportunity and if you go in with that, you're like you know what, if I make a sale, fantastic, right, that is the ideal. Like yes, that is why I'm here. But also, you are there to make connections with people. And if one person liked you on Instagram, one person liked you on Instagram, if one person joined your email list, that is a win, right? Did you, you know, make your booth feedback? Maybe not, but did you still connect with somebody? Did you connect with other vendors? Did you make a connection in some other way.

Speaker 4: 39:08

Like I know, for some of the the events we didn't even make a sale but we still connected with other vendors and we've seen those vendors in at other events and we're like hey, I remember you and it creates a bond and now we are partnering with them because our niches are similar, that we can cross promote each other even though we're not at those events. But we met at those events, building the connections with the other vendors that are there. If it's a particularly slow event, go walk around, go talk with the other other vendors and say like, hey, have you been at this event before? Is it typically this slow? You know what are the other dates and times that this event happens. Is it typically busier in December, you know?

Speaker 4: 39:57

if it's somebody that is a similar niche to yours. Talk to them, find out more information what other events did they go to right that maybe you haven't found on your radar? And just get to know people. But don't be discouraged by the dollar amount you brought in Right. So all is not lost.

Speaker 2: 40:19

if you don't, all is not lost, so just keep going. But the key is to narrow it down to the ones that do bring you the most money. So that's what y'all do. So then you started trying to do what Try to get to Disney-related shows.

Speaker 4: 40:35

Yeah, so we definitely learned our lesson in 2023. The money that we spent on vendor shows that did not work out for us was quite high, but we told ourselves, okay, that's just not the one for us and that's okay. Right, we gave it a good shot. Yeah, we still made connections, we still got followers and all of the things, but it just didn't turn out to sales and that was really our end goal. So we're not going to come back to this one and that's totally fine. So we shifted to okay, what are the ones that did work? And for us, that was the DFC Expo, that was the Mouse Cons, and so we're like well, yeah, that makes sense, these are people who are looking for Disney things. Yes, so that makes sense for us to be in those areas, in those rooms, and so now those are pretty much the main ones that we go to.

Speaker 4: 41:33

Um. Are those, um, those those two events that I mentioned that happened twice a year, and then any other ones are to support um, either some friends of ours or a cause. So we will be in the San Diego area in September for um Bunny Fest for the San Diego House Rabbit Society. We support them every year and so we are a vendor at that event. Do we make our money back? Is it a Disney specific event? No, but we also have San Diego games. So at that event we do bring our Disney games, but we are promoting the local games during those shows. So it's being able to pivot. And with each person that comes up to your booth, yes, you have the sales pitch. They are self-paced. You can find games that you play at theme parks that highlight the details and the theming of the park, but it is their response and is the repetition and getting the experience and being confident in what it is that you're saying.

Speaker 4: 42:44

And that's only going to come with time, if nothing else. You are practicing and building that muscle. What are some of the wordings, the messaging that I can say to eventually get to my right people? Right, right, and so you can say something to somebody and it just didn't feel right. You know that didn't really resonate with me, right, I'm the one saying it Right, right, didn't feel right, yeah. And so you're like okay, how can I tweak that? Okay, I'm going to try this with the next person, and even better if it's not your ideal niche, because then see what's landing, what's not landing and fine tune it in yourself before that right person comes up. And then it's going to be like, yes, let's go, you're going to get it.

Speaker 2: 43:35

Yeah, I love that you're talking about this and you and I and the people in my programs and Grow Getters and stuff. We talk about this as messaging. So if y'all hadn't heard that term before, it's just all the wording that you use to communicate your brand or about what you do or the value of your offer. Right, and we have to get our messaging honed in so that when we talk to people, we feel confident, like you said, like it resonates with us, like we feel good saying it, we don't feel like a weirdo. And then also, it actually works to perk people up because you can see it, when you say something that's effective, you will see their face go.

Speaker 2: 44:08

Oh yeah, I was thinking about thinking about doing that, or my wife was doing that, or my friend, or we're going to Disney this summer or whatever, and you can see them light up and and that's what you want and obviously you want it to turn into some type of lead or sale, hopefully, right, but working on all your wording is so key to your business and if you hadn't thought about that before, I hope this is an aha moment for you, because you realize that when you actually have the right words, you can confidently show up and people will start following you and hopefully buying.

Speaker 2: 44:38

So when you were talking about this, it was just reminding me that when you first came into GrowGetters and stuff, that you were talking about your business in a different way and what you offer, and I would love it if you would share it to people and how your messaging has evolved, because this is key for everyone here that your messaging can and should it should evolve, because it's got to alert the right people what you do. So, amanda, will you share us about your share with us about your messaging journey? I guess we could say oh, yeah, yeah.

Speaker 4: 45:09

So when we first started out, we referred to our games as scavenger hunts. I think seek and find was always part of the lingo, but scavenger hunts.

Speaker 2: 45:22

And we're like yeah, yes, I always thought they were scavenger. I think I said theme park scavenger hunts was how I would introduce you.

Speaker 4: 45:28

Yeah. And then we got the feedback of okay, so it's for kids. Or oh, okay, so you hide something. We're like no, no, no. And we had to backtrack of like, well, no, we don't hide any things in the parks and no, it's not just for kids, it's all, it's for everybody, you know. And then we it was more explaining and that's one of the things that's really hard about our business, but I know a lot of listeners out there but you have to educate people first.

Speaker 4: 46:07

Yes, fountain, find a leak, find a you know, a cast member or a theme park employee who has your same name, something you know, find a princess, something. Quote, unquote easier that that is not what we do. Right, because cool, but that's not what we do. We are an elevated game. That is an experience that will allow you to have a better appreciation for the parks when you're done with it.

Speaker 4: 46:36

I love it, and so we sat with it and if you go back to like our original wording on our Etsy page and our Square page, it was scavenger hunt, scavenger hunt, scavenger hunt, and it was a huge shift of saying it's not just scavenger hunt, it's not a scavenger hunt, it's not a scavenger hunt, scavenger hunt, scavenger hunt and it was a huge shift of saying it's not just scavenger hunt, it's not a scavenger hunt, it's not a scavenger, and we had to say it to each other all the time. Um, we've also changed the names of our games in in general, so we had them as fun packs. Our, our smaller games, our eight, our eight card games were fun packs because we were thinking like candy, like the fun size.

Speaker 2: 47:14

Yes, yes, yeah.

Speaker 4: 47:15

Right, we had challenge packs, which was the bigger games, and so they're like, ok, so the fun ones are the easier ones. Then we're like, well, no, not necessarily. You know it's easiness is is is subjective. How well do you already know the park? And so we're like, okay, so maybe we shouldn't call them fun size then, or fun fun pack and challenge pack. So now we're just mini games and we're in the park games. So there's no um conception of easiness or difficulty level, because it's all personal. How well do you already know the park? Have you had an eye for detail already in looking at details? So we don't put a challenge level on there anymore or have the verbiage that can be a difficulty level. But the biggest change has been switching from scavenger hunt to seek and find games. Okay, and that's really been the biggest change. And so when we say that these are self-paced seek and find experiences, then the light bulb goes off.

Speaker 2: 48:29

Yes, this is something different. Yeah, and it's self-paced. I'm doing this on my own time. Yes, off and something different. Yeah, and it's self-paced. I'm doing this on my own time. Yes, this is something different. You're like, okay, it's more clear exactly what it really is. And I like how you said, like if it was a scavenger hunt, that's cool, but that's not what we're selling. So everyone has to think about I mean all of you listening you have to think about what you're selling. You have to explain it very clearly what it actually is. So people know and you found that out by feedback that people were giving and by your own like check going, wait, but that's not what this is. Why am I saying scavenger hunt? This isn't what it is. So, yeah, so y'all have evolved that. So how has it helped you and your business by knowing all of these words and by knowing your messaging?

Speaker 4: 49:35

up consistently when you have the right words. You convey the message consistently in everything that you do. So when you're talking about it with somebody, when you are showing up on a podcast, when you are working on your Facebook ads or anything else down the line, you are using those same words and you put those, those keywords in your SEO, in your descriptions of everything. Um, because you you want it to have the same tone. Um, and you don't want there to be any confusion. Um, you're still going to have the people that come up like oh, you're the scavenger hunt people and you're like yeah, and you've got to shift that.

Speaker 2: 50:13

Like, that takes a while, because they've got that in their brain and so it behooves everyone to be doing this in the beginning, which is why, obviously, I teach this, like in Grow Getters, because I think it's so important in the beginning of your business, because you could have ingrained in people's heads that you're doing X, Y, Z and you're not. You're really doing A, B, C and we've got to take all this time. So, anyways, so some people are still bringing that up, scavenger hunt, and you're trying to shift the narrative.

Speaker 4: 50:41

Yeah, but it creates a learning opportunity, right? So by the end of an event, you've heard it like 15 billion times of like, oh yeah, they're like scavenger hunts, and then so you'll, you'll learn, like I was mentioning, like, with each interaction, you will have the, the confidence and the verbiage to say whatever you need to say next, to get them on board with what it is that you do, um, and so we will gently nudge them of like yeah, these are seek and find games, like so think of it like a where's waldo book. You know, depending on the age group, they might not know what that means, but you know if they are. Um, you know if they're like, oh yeah, I know, I know about where's waldo books, like, okay, so the book is like the theme park and you are looking for one detail, you're waldo, and they're like, oh yeah, okay, and then then get it like. This is going to be harder than just some find a leaf you know, right, right, right.

Speaker 4: 51:46

So, um, but yeah, you'll get those keywords down and then just repeat it as often as you can put it everywhere. Um, so yeah.

Speaker 2: 51:57

Yeah, yeah, I love these messages that you have that like taking action will will help you. You know, learn and and craft your, your message and your business and everything. You've got to be taking action to get clarity, because I think sometimes people want to get ready. Like you said, get ready to get ready, to get ready and you never end up going anywhere, right. And so I love that. I love that you say you know, consistently show up. You've got to be showing up the same base People are looking for you. You're actually building a fan base. This is how you're building an audience and then just working on that messaging so that it's clear, so that when you are showing up consistently, you're saying consistent words that are drilled in people's head and they understand what your brand is and what your business is about. And I think all these things have been your key to success over the years. Is that right? I mean, what else, to you, has been the key to being successful with this business?

Speaker 4: 53:00

being successful with this business. I think one of them is I go back to connection and reaching out to our customers as often as I can, having those touch points. So when they first place an order, I'm immediately I email them back out and say so. I have the automation email saying like, thank you so much for your order. But I personally email them and say, hey, thank you so much for your order. I would love to know, like, while we're getting everything together, I would love to know how you heard about us and when your next trip to the Disneyland resort will be. Looking forward to hearing from you, amanda. And so they will oftentimes respond, because it's a personalized message, it's not just an automated message. Right, right, I'm connecting it with them. If they used a specific coupon code, I can tell where they came from so I can personalize it that way, and so I have that touch point there. I include a handwritten card with every single order. You go, girl, yeah, looking forward to hearing about you. We hope you have an amazing time looking for the details hidden within Disneyland Park. We can't wait to hear about your experience. Tag us on social right. So I'm inviting them to be part of our community. That's also part of the automation. When we send the tracking information. It says while you're waiting for your package, if you haven't already come, join us on Instagram and Facebook at we're in the Park, so we're inviting them to that as well, and then afterward. So I, I, I put in my my Trello board love Trello Um, but I have it a card for each person and I put in the details that they share with me so I'll put in the date of their order and what they ordered. If they express, hey, we're going to Disneyland at the end of the month, okay, great, I'm going to write that down and also calendar it for a couple weeks after that and then I'll reach out to them and say, hey, I hope you had an amazing time at the Disneyland Resort. I would love to know if you had a chance to play our games while you were there. If so, here's how you can share about your experience and I have everything linked with the review, like where they can go and leave a review. We also have a part in our game packs themselves when they can do our survey right there. So I link that um.

Speaker 4: 55:38

So there's a number of touch points um through throughout the, the journey. Um, if they say, hey, we're going on such and such date and we also happen to be there, I make it a point say let's meet up, we're gonna be at the same place. Let's, let's meet up, we're going to be at the same place. Let's meet up, we would love to see you in person and make it a conscious effort to see them where they are, especially if they're playing your games, like they're actually interacting with your products. So I have multiple touch points through that. And it is because we're building that relationship that they're like okay, this isn't just another company, this is somebody who cares about my experience. You know, I always throw in something if they're like oh, we're going for such and such or so-and-so's birthday, great, I'm going to include a birthday card.

Speaker 4: 56:27

You know I'm going to include something personal and then say, like you know, for so-and-so's birthday, you know how do they enjoy their experience, or whatever. And so any point that I think it's Amy Porterfield that says you know, surprise and delight your audience. Any way that you can surprise and delight your audience, do it.

Speaker 2: 56:48

It doesn't cost very much and it's everything to them yeah it is, and I love hearing you say all this because, as you're sitting here talking, I'm thinking this is what is magical about small businesses is that we have this opportunity, we have the time, we have the hunger, we want to provide a good experience, we're trying to build a successful business and we can add special touches that consumers cannot get with larger organizations. Let's just take, for example, amazon right, can they write you a handwritten note? No, because it's all automated. It's getting shipped to you. So use your magic. Everyone has this magic available to them the surprise and delight factor.

Speaker 2: 57:32

I just love it, just the care and touch points that you can have as a small business owner right now, especially if you're new at this stage of business to handhold, to make people feel really good about their purchase and to refer you, because that's what you want to do, you want repeat customers and you want referrals. And as you were talking, I just was thinking this is the magic of a new small business and I don't even know that I wouldn't consider you new anymore, necessarily, even though it's been what? Three years, two years? No, four years, four years. So maybe you're not new, but it's just the magic of a small business, that you have time. Your business has evolved and shifted and now I think you feel that, like confidence, I can see it in you over these years, that confidence that you have built from everything from shifting your product to working on your messaging, to showing up in the right places and constantly evaluating it.

Speaker 2: 58:23

You're like a star student. Like you're a star student. You came out of the gate just like going this is going to work. We have something special, we know it. You were never braggy, never arrogant. I'm not talking about that. I'm just talking about the knowing that a lot of us have, as small business owners, that we have something special to offer the world. We know there are people out there that would love this and the puzzle is how do we get in front of them? What do we say? Where do we show up? How do we keep these people coming back? And you have done all of that. I've watched you through the years just getting started program and then, with you know, grow Getters and then being a part of my podcasting program, which I'm so excited. You're part of Passion to Podcast and that's some fun news that we get to announce is that you're actually launching a podcast soon as a way of reaching more people. So tell us about your podcast that's launching in just a few weeks at the time of this recording.

Speaker 4: 59:22

And we're so excited this is. This has been a long time coming. It's been in on the back burner of stewing away on low heat for for a long time and now we are officially ready. And I honestly think if we had started when we first had the idea, so much would have changed, because we've changed our messaging, we've changed our direction and, like thinking back to where we were a couple of years ago, nothing would make sense today. Interesting.

Speaker 2: 59:53

Yeah, it just shows you how to do the work early so that you can then expand and do all these things. I think it's so crucial in the beginning of a business.

Speaker 4: 1:00:01

Yeah, and so now we're at the point where we have our foundation down and now it's how can we show up for our audience in new ways? And so the podcast is really going to be a game changer for us.

Speaker 4: 1:00:17

I have no doubts about that because, like we talk about all the time, the life of a podcast is forever, and so we are going to focus on the history behind the details, so it's going to be evergreen, and each episode is going to be about a different theme park, so we'll have where in the disney park, where in the knots fairy farm park, like all of these different things so exciting and yeah, so we, we are working on um, finding different things throughout the park, the details that we don't have in our game packs, but finding out why that's there, who put it there, what is the history and significance of that specific detail, and so we'll highlight two to three details each episode and then we'll have the pictures and imagery over on our Facebook group that we're creating for the podcast called when in the Park Explorers, so you can be an explorer with us and provide your own pictures and insight, if you have anything, because we are a collective unit when it comes to history and theme parks and there's so much out there, but a lot of times there's not information about the who and the why, that we have the what, but we don't have the who, the why. I love that. I love that. That's really cool, yeah.

Speaker 4: 1:01:43

And so to have that community of people who are just as passionate about it as you are but can also add to the experience with their own pictures and stories and you know, oh, my dad worked on this like those are the things that you're not going to get. You know it when you're at a live event, you know when, when you're behind the screen of your website, so connecting with new people in a new way. I am so excited about it. And, yes, we're going to be launching very, very soon. We have a couple of episodes recorded and we're just fine-tuning some things and then they'll be ready for launch.

Speaker 2: 1:02:23

And the name of the podcast is when in the Park Podcast. Perfect. I just want to make sure everyone knew that and see the consistency, everyone the consistency, the website domain, the podcast, everything, and then the when in the Park Explorers for the Facebook group. All her links are below, by the way, for everyone listening, and her podcast will be launching soon, so I'll update the link to that as soon as it's live. But you'll be able to listen to it here very, very soon and we're super stoked about that. She's been working on it and all the episodes and that has been so fun to watch.

Speaker 2: 1:02:59

And I am cracking up because you're saying you know this has been stewing for a while on a low heat. I just like pictured food on a stove and you're like it's been sitting there for two years, it's still there, it's going, and you're like, no, we're doing it now. And so it's been really cool to see all the action that you've been taking recently to be able to get this thing finally going. And yours is a little different because you are going to have two co-hosts right your husband Kevin, your mom Kim, who is an integral part of your business, which, by the way, as a side note. I think this is the coolest thing ever that you and your husband are doing this and that your mom is so involved. I don't know, I'm touched every time you talk about it and when I see the pictures online on your Instagram and all that. I'm like this relationship that you have with your mom is the cutest thing ever and I just love it. And I think it's so cool that you can run a business and you have this sweet and wonderful mother who is a part of it and cheering you on all the way and supporting you. I mean, I've heard you say she wraps packages, wraps packages. She's shipping stuff for you. I'm like she gets mom of the year. Mother's Day is coming up, so she needs an amazing, amazing gift for her time. I'm sure you do. You already thank her all the time I know. So anyways, she seems amazing and your husband, Kevin, is just awesome and I love that. He's a history buff about all of this and it's just been so cool to get to know you and I've even got to talk to him a few times and it's just been awesome seeing your growth, so anyway.

Speaker 2: 1:04:17

So your podcast is coming. We're in the park, it's going to be launching soon, and what I plan on doing and I told you this, I'm going to tell everyone publicly is that I want to have you on again here in some months, after your podcast is up and rolling, and I want you to share about how the podcast shifts your business, what happens, how this affects your business, what happens how this affects your business, because I think this is interesting for people that are considering starting a podcast. Is there any advice right now that you have for anyone just before you launch? Just any thoughts for anyone out there that's got either a product business or service business, whatever it is or thinking about starting a podcast. Is there anything that you want to share about that, Any advice, any lessons or anything, Anything you want to share.

Speaker 4: 1:04:55

Oh, so, when it comes to the podcast in particular, we wanted to do a podcast because we look at our podcast player. For me it's all like business stuff and some theme parks, but for my husband it's like all theme park related stuff. Um, so the idea of having a podcast, my brain instantly went into imposter syndrome of who do I think? I am Like I can't be the level of so-and-so who's been doing this for years, who's also a history buff, who is like spends hours and hours and hours on one topic. I can't do that, and so I instantly shut myself down of I don't have time to research all this. I'm not them. There's no way. And it did take a while to go. That's great. That's great that you're not them, because you're providing something different. That's great that you're not them because you're providing something different.

Speaker 4: 1:05:56

And we don't want to be pigeonholed into one certain thing you do, you, right? What is it that you can provide to your people? Because that podcast that I'm thinking of, they're not selling a product, they don't have a small business, they are just sharing knowledge. We are trying to be in front of our audience and provide value and also invite them in to be part of our community, and there, so there is a difference. There, um, but so, so, isolating those factors and going it's okay that I'm not them, thank goodness I'm not them, right, that that takes a huge weight off off your shoulders. Right there of I can do this in the way that feels comfortable to me.

Speaker 4: 1:06:55

However, that looks like they have hours and hours and hours that they're focusing on one topic. I'm going to spend five minutes on a topic. Let's go. Here's what you need to know. This is why it's important, this is why we're focusing on it and we're moving on to the next one, and so it's going to be two totally different things. So why am I comparing myself to them? You know, so it takes a lot of self-realization to go okay, I'm, I'm okay.

Speaker 2: 1:07:30

I can do this.

Speaker 4: 1:07:31

I can do it, and that you don't have to have everything perfect is also really, really important. You don't need to have all the things. You don't need to have the best microphone. You don't need to have the best headphones I don't even have headphones right now because it doesn't work with the mic jack. That's going on with my mic, that's okay. That doesn't mean you can't record.

Speaker 2: 1:07:55

We just got to get it going. Yeah, we knew we had to do this. We're not worried about it, right? I love that. I think that's such good sentiment for everyone listening is that you just have to get moving, you will gain the confidence, and everything won't be perfect. I talk about imperfect action.

Speaker 2: 1:08:09

If y'all been listening for a while, you know that's like a huge thing, and it's so true because we want to. We want to perfect everything, we want to know that we're the best one. We have imposter syndrome. Their podcast is way better. We can all say that about our businesses, about our products, about the way we look, anything, anything we want to say we can always do that. But what we have to realize is that we actually have our own lane, and to own that and to own that lane and focus on that, on what you can do and what you're good at and I think that's what's neat about what y'all are doing is that Kevin, you've told me he's a buff history buff on this and you are too. I mean, it sounds like you know a lot, but he knows a lot more. Is that what you're doing?

Speaker 4: 1:08:49

He knows a lot more. He could be his own tour guide.

Speaker 2: 1:08:56

Okay, you could be the tour guide, but you're obsessed with it too and y'all met there and it's just the coolest story ever.

Speaker 2: 1:08:58

I love it so much and it's just so neat to see how much you've grown. And I can't even wait to see how this podcast goes and how much joy it's going to bring you, because I know how much this podcast has joy that it's brought me and just fulfillment and the people that it's reached. I would have never met you if I had never done this podcast or any of the grow getters or any of the clients that I've had that I adore. I mean, there's no like bad apple. There's just always these joyful human beings that are just trying to live their passion and it's just so, so wonderful. So that's why I had to have you on the show, because I'm like I have to share you with everybody and that you will share an honest, you know, take on what this business has been. It hasn't been all sunshines and rainbows, has it. I mean no, no, we've made mistakes, we've had hard times, right. I mean it hasn't been perfect.

Speaker 2: 1:09:48

It's been hard, but you've done it and you focused on it, and now you're starting this new venture with your business. You've got all your wording down. It's like every all your ducks are in a row, like everything now is feels clear, and I think that's. I think that's why you feel confident starting the podcast, cause I think you're so much more clear about what you're offering. Would you agree with that?

Speaker 4: 1:10:06

Oh yeah, A hundred percent.

Speaker 4: 1:10:08

Yeah, like, like I said, if we had started it a couple of years ago when we first had the idea like, talk about you know, your first episodes are usually those cringe moments and like oh my gosh if we went back two years ago and listened to original episodes, we would be like everything has changed the name of our products, that how we talk about it, yes, calling ourselves scavenger hunts back then, like there's so many different things that have changed that. Now we are clear, like you said. Now we're clear with our messaging.

Speaker 2: 1:10:38

Yeah, we're clear and we're full confident.

Speaker 4: 1:10:44

And so now we're ready to take it to the next level. But it's not about providing a podcast that just goes gangbusters and goes viral. I mean same thing with social media. You don't post a piece of content with like oh, if it doesn't go viral, then I've failed. There might be some of like I want it to do well, but you want it to have connection. You want, yes, you something um, entertain or educate or inform in some way.

Speaker 4: 1:11:12

And that's the point with the podcast too. It's about building connection and reestablishing the authority, our authority, in the theme park space, and building that connection about theme parks and having that community. So if it leads to sales, fantastic. If it goes viral, fantastic. But it's really about just increasing the awareness that we exist and getting our name out there. That is the sole purpose of that. And, yes, yes, have that goal in mind, it will happen. Just podcast out there. You are going to extend your reach, yes, yes, and so that's that's ultimately what it comes down to. And if it happens to do well and lead to sales, then fantastic.

Speaker 2: 1:11:57

Right, all the better. Yeah, no, I agree, I think that's amazing and it's such a good attitude. And you know we say we want to take action and go, like y'all could have taken action and gone, but I think you knew in your heart like just something was feeling heavy. And it wasn't just that. You were, you know, maybe a little scared or whatever. It was just like something doesn't feel right and I think y'all knew you didn't know what it was exactly, but by working through everything I've just watched you gain that confidence and clarity on all the words you're saying and the words you're using on your packaging and what you're calling this and how you're showing up, and I just love it. It's so awesome to see no-transcript. You don't know what to say, you don't feel confident. Please don't hesitate to reach out, because that's what I'm here for.

Speaker 2: 1:13:08

Amanda is a perfect example. She is like all in but was doing it, you know, in a way where she feels like she could make a difference in this world, and I think it's just so wonderful. So I'm so proud of you, amanda, I'm so happy to get to know you and just watch your progress and happy for Kevin and your mom, kim. I just think the whole thing is just amazing. Thank you so much. You're welcome and I'm so glad you've been here and we're going to have you on in a few months when you're feeling ready for that, and we're going to circle back because we got to update everybody. I hear how this podcast goes and how this shifts your business.

Speaker 4: 1:13:47

Absolutely. I'm excited. I can't wait to officially launch and start putting out quality content. It's going to be awesome. It's going to be awesome.

Speaker 2: 1:13:55

It's going to be amazing. So well, that is it, I guess, unless there's anything else you want to share. And then until next time, and I can't wait to hear this podcast, I'm excited. I'm going to be ready on my Apple Podcasts app. Be ready to listen to it.

Speaker 4: 1:14:09

Thank you, I can't wait to. I'll definitely be making a huge announcement. Talk about shouting yes, yeah, so people could follow you.

Speaker 2: 1:14:18

They could follow you on Instagram right now they can get your Facebook group. They can get on your email list, because then, if they got on your email list, you're going to notify them via email and they'll know right when you launch. Is that right?

Speaker 4: 1:14:39

actually our Facebook group is also live where the park explores. Okay, so you can go check that out over on Facebook. And shocker, just answer three quick questions and we will get you in and and yeah, so it's everything that that you've taught us since day one, um, but, but yeah, you'll be notified there. Uh, we actually did a little, a little teaser of like hey guys, we're recording yeah, I know like this is actually happening.

Speaker 2: 1:15:04

We've turned up the heat a little bit. I'm not simmering exactly.

Speaker 4: 1:15:08

I know that podcast group has been up for a few years now, but but you know, we, we're, we're going for it and it's happening and it's going to be amazing. Yeah, um, but yeah, at where in the park is where you can find us on all the all the platforms and then our website, where, in the parkcom um, you can scroll down and go to our newsletter, you can put your email, um to be on our email list, and we also have some bonus goodies when you sign up. So it's terrific.

Speaker 2: 1:15:40

It's awesome. Well, I'm so excited for you, amanda, and we will be in touch very soon. Thank you so much for being here.

Speaker 4: 1:15:48

Okay, thanks for having me. Bye.

Speaker 3: 1:15:55

Now this episode may be over, but our relationship does not have to end here. Head on over to kimberlybrockcom and, yes, you can get more valuable information for your journey and you know what. You don't need to go through this alone. I would love to help you. Thank you so much and have a great day. Bye.