The Themed Attraction Podcast

IAAPA Meet & Greet 2025

Join us in person at IAAPA Expo! We’re hosting a Themed Attraction Podcast Meet & Greet and you’re invited. Wednesday, November 19, 2025 5:00 PM Electrosonic Booth #2069, IAAPA Expo Showfloor Come say hello to Mel McGowan, Freddy Martin, Barry Hill, and Nate Naversen. We’ll be there to shake hands, swap stories, and connect with fellow theme park fans, makers, and industry pros. See you at the Electrosonic booth on Wednesday at 5pm!

59: Former WDI President Barbara Bouza

In this episode of Themed Attraction Podcast, Freddy and Mel sit down with Barbara Bouza, former President of Walt Disney Imagineering. Barbara shares her journey from architect to creative leader, reflecting on her time guiding Imagineering through the pandemic, collaborating with visionary leaders, and championing global perspectives in design. From Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, she opens up about the challenges, triumphs, and the lasting impact of people-first leadership in themed entertainment. Connect with Barbara on Instagram or shake hands with her on LinkedIn. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on Apple Podcasts and wherever you listen to us; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

58: Johnny Davis, Senior Creative Director at Storyland Studios

Our guest this episode is Johnny Davis, a master of storytelling and immersive experience design. Johnny is the Senior Creative Director at Storyland Studios and a lifelong storyteller dedicated to crafting experiences that forge emotional connections. From the thought-provoking Poverty Encounter to the action-packed Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N., Johnny has a knack for bringing stories to life in ways that inspire, engage, and resonate. With his unmatched ability to guide projects from concept to completion, Johnny has left his mark on some of the industry’s most iconic experiences—many of which remain under wraps for now. Join us as we explore his creative journey, the art of storytelling, and what it takes to craft meaningful, immersive experiences. Connect with Johnny at StorylandStudios.com and give him a high five on LinkedIn. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on Apple Podcasts and wherever you listen to us; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

57: Roger Tofte, Oregon’s Enchanted Forest

Our guest this episode is Roger Tofte, the visionary dreamer and doer behind Oregon’s Enchanted Forest. We were honored to sit down with Roger Tofte, the legendary creator of Enchanted Forest, a whimsical wonderland nestled in the Pacific Northwest that has been enchanting visitors for generations. Starting with a dream for his kids in the 1960s, Roger spent seven years building the park with his own hands, crafting everything from storybook trails to an alpine coaster and a beloved dark ride. Joined by his daughter Susan Vaslev, Roger shares the incredible story of how this hidden gem came to life, the family legacy that keeps it thriving, and why, even in his 90s, you’ll still find him giving new life to his park. Take a journey into the world of creativity, perseverance, and fairy tales with Roger Tofte and Enchanted Forest. Learn more about Roger Tofte, the Walt Disney of the Pacific Northwest, at enchantedforest.com and book tickets for your next road trip. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on Apple Podcasts and wherever you listen to us; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!

56: Patrick Kling, Big Break Foundation

Our guest is Patrick Kling, a powerhouse of creativity and innovation in themed entertainment. Patrick is an unstoppable creative force whose work spans interactive attractions, immersive theme park lands, and even a 20,000-square-foot ice sculpture experience chilled to a crisp 9 degrees! With a career that’s taken him through Nickelodeon and SeaWorld parks, Patrick’s passion for storytelling and design shines through in every project. As the Co-Founder of the Big Break Foundation, he’s also leading the charge to break down barriers and create a more inclusive future in location-based entertainment. Join us as we explore Patrick’s creative journey, his groundbreaking work, and how he’s making a difference both in the industry and beyond. Connect with Patrick at bigbreakfoundation.org, watch Patrick’s TETV video interviews on youtube, or shake hands with him on LinkedIn. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on Apple Podcasts and wherever you listen to us; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!