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PODCAST

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30

Philip Hernandez

An insider’s take on the theme park and themed entertainment industry trends, Green Tagged Covers the Top Theme Park News from each week. From theme parks to zoos and aquariums to haunted houses, we scour the world for what you need to know. We may not have all the answers, but we ask the right questions. Subscribe to PRO content on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/GreenTagged

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All Episodes

31:46

Universal Studios UK: A £50 Billion Brexit Comeback...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2025/04/12

Universal's newly announced UK theme park isn't just another expansion—it's a strategic economic revitalization plan positioned to transform Britain's post-Brexit economy. We analyze how this 476-acre project near London promises 8.5 million first-year visitors, 28,000 jobs, and a £50 billion economic impact by 2055. Scott and Philip explore why Universal's diversification strategy—balancing global location risk while expanding into kid-friendly, adult-horror, and now European markets—represents

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24:01

BONUS: Catalyzing Social Connection- IAAPA Chair...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2025/04/09

In this bonus episode, we present the complete remarks from Massimiliano Freddi, IAAPA Chair of the Board and Wonderwood CEO, recorded at the IAAPA North America Summit. Hear Freddi’s powerful perspective on why attractions should become catalysts for true social connection—from countering phone addiction to designing transformative guest experiences. Tune in to discover new insights on how parks can foster genuine togetherness in a fast-paced, digital world.

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31:27

Disney's Operational Magic: Key Insights from IAAPA's...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2025/04/07

Go behind the scenes at Disney with exclusive takeaways from IAAPA's North America Summit 2025 at Disneyland Resort! Philip shares first-hand insights from Disney executives on the thoughtful redesign of Toontown and how small, intentional changes create significant guest experience improvements. Discover how Disney balances operational necessities with guest comfort through innovative solutions - from stroller parking zones to decompression spaces to mixed-and-match cast costumes that enhance

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31:33

The US Has a Branding Problem: Tourism Decline...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2025/03/31

International tourism to the US is projected to decline by at least 5% this year instead of the expected 9% growth, threatening a $72 billion reduction in total travel spending. We analyze the factors behind this dramatic shift—from policy changes to negative media coverage—and explore how theme parks are responding. Disney's strategic summer announcements following Universal's Epic Universe opening suggest industry collaboration as parks work to make visiting the US "worth the hassle." Will these

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31:37

Park Power Play: Herschend's Bold Acquisition...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2025/03/24

This week we analyze Herschend's strategic acquisition of Palace Entertainment's U.S. properties, potentially establishing them as a major third-place challenger in the theme park industry. Unlike the public Six Flags-Cedar Fair merger, this private company acquisition brings a different approach—emphasizing people-first culture, regional park identity, and quality entertainment experiences. With annual visitors projected to reach 20 million, Herschend is positioning itself alongside industry giants

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30:48

Tariffs & Terror: Why and How Universal is...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2025/03/17

This week Philip shares key insights from the Themed Entertainment Association's Inspire Week and Leadership Forum. Amid tariff concerns and market volatility, we explore how Universal is strategically diversifying its entertainment portfolio. From a year-round horror experience in Las Vegas to fan-focused pop-up festivals and a family-centric local approach in Texas, Universal is placing calculated bets across multiple markets. Discover the inside details on Universal Horror Unleashed, FanFest

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31:31

Six Flags & United Parks Earnings: Optimism or Trouble?

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2025/03/09

Six Flags reported a $206 million net loss for 2024—but investors are cautiously optimistic. Meanwhile, United Parks is blaming hurricanes for its flat revenue and attendance, but is it really the weather, or is there a deeper issue? This week, we break down earnings reports from Six Flags and United Parks, analyzing the good, the bad, and the uncertain. Six Flags is growing attendance and spending, but merger costs, debt, and operating expenses are eating into profits. Meanwhile, United Parks is

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30:54

Will Horror Unleashed Succeed? And, Is China’s...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2025/03/02

Universal’s Horror Unleashed is officially opening in Las Vegas on August 14th—but will it succeed? Meanwhile, China’s tourism industry is rebounding, with the government aggressively fueling growth through investments, policy changes, and new attractions. This week, we break down Horror Unleashed’s opening details, including ticket pricing and what guests can expect. But with a challenging location at AREA15 and IPs that feel familiar rather than fresh, we discuss whether Universal’s year-round

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41:57

SPECIAL: LIVE From The IAAPA Middle East Trade Summit...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2025/02/23

Come with us to IAAPA's Middle East Trade Summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This episode is presented as a series of diaries over the course of three days, so you can hear our reactions in real-time to Qiddiya City and BLVD World.

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30:22

Fantasy Springs Boosts Tokyo Disney as Universal...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2025/02/16

Tokyo Disney Resort is thriving with Fantasy Springs and seasonal events driving record-breaking revenue, while Universal Studios Hollywood is experimenting with a bold new event: Fan Fest Nights.This week, we break down Oriental Land Company’s latest earnings, revealing how Fantasy Springs and seasonal activations like Halloween helped boost attendance and spending—while also creating operational challenges. Then, we dive into Universal’s Fan Fest Nights, which blends pop-up experiences, immersive

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31:01

Disney Q1 FY25 Earnings Deep Dive Earnings Deep Dive:...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2025/02/10

Is Disney’s success unstoppable? Despite rising ticket prices, hurricanes disrupting domestic parks, and the looming Epic Universe, Disney still delivered strong earnings. This week, we dive into Disney’s Q1 FY25 earnings to explore how robust international attendance propped up U.S. shortfalls, Bob Iger’s plans to make ESPN Flagship a 24/7 sports streaming powerhouse, and why Disney+ and Hulu are now three-quarters profitable—even with subscriber challenges. Plus, learn how the cruise line

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31:15

Merlin Slashes Entertainment Jobs as Trump’s Tariffs...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2025/02/03

Trump’s proposed tariffs could drive up costs for theme parks, and Merlin Entertainment is cutting live entertainment across multiple locations—but what does it all mean for the industry?This week, we break down how new tariffs on imports from China, Mexico, and Canada could lead to higher construction costs, delayed projects, and rising ticket prices. Meanwhile, Merlin’s staffing cuts in Florida, California, and the UK are raising concerns—are they shifting to third-party contractors, or is this

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32:40

Trump Policies and Theme Parks: Labor, Tariffs,...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2025/01/26

Immigration reform, tariff hikes, federally controlled ride safety, and drone regulations - The Trump Administration's policies will shake up the theme park industry, and we must be ready. This week, we discuss IAAPA’s position on these critical topics, including how changes to youth employment laws and visa programs might address the looming labor crisis. We explore the financial strain tariffs could place on park development and why IAAPA advocates for federal no-fly zones over amusement parks to

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33:24

California Wildfires & TikTok Shutdown: Lessons for...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2025/01/20

This week, we connect two seemingly unrelated stories—the devastating California wildfires and TikTok’s temporary shutdown—to explore a common theme: crisis planning. With wildfires displacing employees and closing theme parks, and TikTok’s uncertainty highlighting the risks of "rented land," we examine how the attractions industry can better prepare for disruptions. From employee housing to social media strategies, this episode delves into what parks must do to adapt to a world of increasing

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58:36

BONUS: How Merlin will Bring Minecraft into the Real...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2025/01/13

Scott is unavailable this week, so we're airing a panel discussion from IAAPA 2024. The panel, "IAAPA Fireside Chat: Inspiring Minds of the Industry," combines large and small attraction operators to discuss 2024 and industry trends. During this presentation, you'll hear how Mojang Studios is joining forces with Merlin Entertainments to bring Minecraft adventures to life in the real world through immersive and interactive attractions. Featured in this discussion: Kayleen Walters, VP of Franchise

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30:53

When you invent the drone, you also invent the drone...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2025/01/06

Subscribe to our Patreon for bonus episodes. On December 21, multiple drones from Sky Elements unexpectedly fell during a holiday show at Lake Eola, Orlando, injuring 7-year-old Zander Edgerton, who required open-heart surgery. Following the incident, on December 23rd, the FAA opened an investigation and suspended Sky Elements' Part 107 waiver, halting all night drone flights and shows over populated areas. Investigations by the FAA and NTSB are underway, and Sky Elements has since canceled multiple

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31:29

2024 Trends Shaping 2025: Immersion, AI, and the...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2024/12/30

In the final episode of 2024, we dive into the most prominent trends that defined the year and will shape 2025. From the evolution of immersive experiences and the rise of personalization to integrating AI into attractions, the duo explores how the industry is adapting to meet guest expectations. They discuss the balance between high- and low-tech solutions, the guest agency's role in storytelling, and why parks need to embrace AI as a tool for innovation. Plus, find out what these shifts mean for

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30:39

Cruising into the Future: Tokyo’s Plans and China’s...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2024/12/23

Tokyo Disneyland operator Oriental Land unveiled an ambitious USD 2.1 billion plan to launch an "offshore theme park" cruise by 2028, aiming to reduce its reliance on Maihama operations. This approach mirrors Disney's investment in cruises, which we discussed last week. While Disney has a smaller share of the cruise market, it has significantly less debt. Attendance rates rose from 63% in 2022 to 97% in 2024. Meanwhile, China's theme parks drive inbound tourism, now ranking alongside iconic

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31:06

Control vs. Collaboration: How Disney and United...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2024/12/16

Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Disney Treasure, is making waves with its IP-packed premium entertainment, like the Haunted Mansion Parlor, Tale of Moana, and Plaza de Coco dinner show. In essence, Disney is moving portions of the theme park experience onto their cruise ships, using a highly curated and controlled environment to deliver guest experiences that are no longer possible within the theme parks. Meanwhile, United Parks is taking the opposite approach by outsourcing elements of its

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31:33

Fan Fest Nights, Busch Gardens Owes in Suit, &...

Green Tagged: Theme Park in 30 ·

2024/12/08

Universal Studios Hollywood’s 2025 event calendar dropped, including dates for Halloween Horror Nights and the debut of FanFest Nights. Plus, we unpack the $5 million lawsuit verdict against Busch Gardens Tampa, discussing its potential ripple effects across the industry. Finally, we look at Disneyland’s 70th anniversary plans, featuring the highly anticipated Walt Disney animatronic and the return of beloved shows like Paint the Night.Become a supporter of this podcast:

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