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

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

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

03:25 – How coasters are designed

05:50 – Accessibility in theme parks

12:07 – Top Thrill 2

13:53 – Innovation vs operations

21:46 – Family coaster trend

26:41 – Maintenance & after-sales reality

38:42 – Career advice

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

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

Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Doug Perry and Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

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

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

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

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

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

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

Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Doug Perry and Derek Perry

Editors: Ben Weinrach, Jessica Gardner and Derek Perry

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

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

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

Podcast Episode Team

Host: Jessica Gardner

Producers: Doug Perry and Derek Perry

Editor: Bob Randolph

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