In this episode, I’m catching up with play café owner Sarah Kobin, who I first interviewed about a year and a half ago when she was still in the early opening phase of her business.
Now that she’s been open for 18 months, Sarah shares what’s changed — from which revenue streams performed best (and which didn’t) to how her team, systems, and daily operations have evolved.
We talk about what’s surprised her most since opening, what she’d do differently if she could start over, and how her role as the owner has shifted as the business has grown.
If you’re curious what the first full year of running an indoor playground really looks like — the wins, the lessons, and everything in between — you’re going to love this follow-up conversation.
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving
PROFITABLE PLAY RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist]
What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide
Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training]
Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist
Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel
Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
Active Campaign Free Trial: https://www.activecampaign.com/?_r=D6IYK3HG
In this episode, I’m breaking down the truth about play café and indoor playground franchising — and why this model has failed to deliver lasting success for most owners, outside of what you may see on social media.
I’ve worked with countless franchisees who believed joining an established concept would simplify their startup journey, only to discover overwhelming fees, lack of flexibility, and corporate systems that didn’t fit their local markets.
In this episode, I share real examples of owners who struggled under these agreements and explain the key red flags to watch for if you’re researching a franchise opportunity (and we get VERY specific!).
You’ll learn:
• Why big national brands like The Little Gym or Goldfish Swim School can make franchising work — and why smaller ones rarely can.
• The financial math behind royalties, marketing fees, and hidden costs.
• Common build-out and permitting pitfalls new franchisees face.
• The importance of local flexibility in pricing, programs, and menu offerings.
• How to read the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and spot deal-breaking clauses.
• Smarter alternatives to franchising for aspiring owners who still want systems and support.
If you’ve been tempted by the promise of “done-for-you” business ownership, this episode will help you make a truly informed decision before signing anything.
Old Pros and Cons of Franchising Article Mentioned
What's Working Guide for 2025-2026
OTHER RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist]
What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide
Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training]
Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist
Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel
Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
Active Campaign Free Trial: https://www.activecampaign.com/?_r=D6IYK3HG
At some point, almost every play cafe owner will exit their business — whether it’s by selling, transitioning to a new owner, or closing and moving on to the next chapter. It’s a natural part of the business lifecycle, but it’s something most of us don’t think about until we have to.
In this episode of The Profitable Play Podcast, I’m breaking down what it really means to sell your indoor playground or play cafe business versus liquidating it — and how to know which option makes the most sense for you.
If you’ve ever wondered what your exit strategy could look like — whether that’s years down the road or something you’re actively considering now — this episode will help you start preparing your business to be both sellable and sustainable.
Watch this episode on YouTube instead
Here’s what I’ll cover inside:
I’ll also walk you through practical steps to get your finances, systems, and lease ready — so you can protect your investment, reduce your stress, and keep every possible door open for your future.
Whether your business is thriving or you’re simply feeling the weight of ownership right now, this conversation will give you the clarity, confidence, and next steps you need to move forward intentionally and on your own terms.
Resources Mentioned:
Ep 68: Why Most Indoor Playgrounds Don't Sell, OR Sell For A Loss
Video: Exit Strategies For Play Cafe Owners
Video: My Tips For Selling Or Closing Your Business
Video: Breaking Your Commercial Lease
OTHER RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist]
What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide
Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training]
Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist
Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel
Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
Active Campaign Free Trial: https://www.activecampaign.com/?_r=D6IYK3HG
If Halloween snuck up on you this year—don’t stress. In this episode, I share 10 quick, low-cost, and high-impact ways to boost October profits and make your indoor playground or play café feel festive without draining your time or budget.
These ideas will help you attract families, boost engagement, and create memorable experiences—whether you have a day or a week to prepare.
BLOG for this episode: https://www.michelecaruana.com/blog/halloween-ideas
OTHER RESOURCES:
Take a Vacation As An Owner (FREE Download)
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist]
What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide
Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training]
Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist
Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel
Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
Active Campaign Free Trial: https://www.activecampaign.com/?_r=D6IYK3HG
Prefer to read? This episode's takeaways are summarized here!
Prefer to watch? This interview's also on YouTube here
Work with MJ Morley Law: https://www.mjmorleylaw.com/
Thinking about opening a play café or indoor playground business? Or maybe you already own one and want to be sure you’re legally protected? Understanding trademark protection and cease and desist letters is essential for both new and current owners.
In this episode, I sit down with my lawyer to get clear, practical answers to the most common legal questions play café and indoor playground owners face, including:
...How to avoid infringing on someone else’s trademark before you launch
...What a cease and desist actually is (and how it differs from a lawsuit)
...The right steps to take if you ever receive one
...Whether or not you should share cease and desist letters publicly
...What types of names, logos, and phrases are trademark-able
...If and when you should file your own trademarks to protect your business
...The potential consequences of sending meritless or false cease and desist letters
Whether you’re still in the business planning phase or already operating your play café and want to protect yourself legally if you ever receive a cease and desist, this conversation will give you the knowledge you need to safeguard your brand, avoid costly mistakes, and move forward with confidence.
OTHER RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist]
What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide
Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training]
Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist
Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel
Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
Active Campaign Free Trial: https://www.activecampaign.com/?_r=D6IYK3HG
In this episode of The Profitable Play Podcast, I sit down with Amy Bowman, founder of the soon-to-launch live music–themed play space, The Jamboree Club in Pennsylvania.
Amy is right in the middle of business planning and finalizing her location, so we dive deep into the most important steps every indoor playground or play café owner should take before opening their doors.
Here’s what we cover in this episode:
If you’re anywhere in the business planning stage, this episode is packed with insights to help you avoid common missteps and set yourself up for success.
Follow Amy’s business on IG: instagram.com/thejamboreeclub/
Website: https://www.thejamboreeclub.com/
OTHER RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist]
What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide
Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training]
Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist
Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel
Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
Active Campaign Free Trial: https://www.activecampaign.com/?_r=D6IYK3HG
As indoor playground owners, we didn’t open our spaces to spend nights chasing late payments or answering 10pm DMs. We opened to build community and have time with our families.
That balance is possible—with automation.
In this episode, I’m sharing 10 sales automations you can set up THIS week to recover lost bookings, increase revenue, and free up your time, including:
These automations plug the leaks in your funnel so you stop losing sales—and stop choosing between being present at work or at home.
🔗 Episodes Mentioned
OTHER RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist]
What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide
Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training]
Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist
Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel
Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
Active Campaign Free Trial: https://www.activecampaign.com/?_r=D6IYK3HG
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
In this episode of The Profitable Play Podcast, I sit down with Kate Mitchell, the inspiring owner of Funtown Play Café, to hear the real story behind how she turned her vision into a thriving family destination.
Kate shares the highs, the lows, and everything in between—from the spark of inspiration that started her journey, to the challenges of the build-out process, to how she developed such a strong and recognizable brand that immediately resonates with families.
We also dive into:
If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to bring a play café to life—or you’re looking for practical tips and encouragement to keep moving forward—this conversation is full of golden nuggets you won’t want to miss.
👉 Listen in and get inspired by Kate’s journey to creating Funtown Play Café!
OTHER RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist]
What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide
Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training]
Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist
Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel
Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
In this episode of The Profitable Play Podcast, I share a recorded coaching call with Jan from Kinderland Play Cafe in Hendersonville, TN that covers the exact questions so many indoor playground and play café owners face when setting up their systems and preparing their business for growth—or even a future sale.
My guest’s long-term plan is to eventually sell their business, so every decision they make now is with that end goal in mind. During our conversation, we dig into:
If you’re in the trenches of creating processes, figuring out how much to delegate, or looking to build a business that’s scalable and eventually sellable, this episode is packed with actionable advice.
Kinderland Website: https://www.kinderland-hendersonville.com/
Kinderland IG: https://www.instagram.com/kinderland.hendersonville
OTHER RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist]
What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide
Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training]
Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist
Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel
Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
In this episode of The Profitable Play Podcast, I share a recorded coaching call with Rosie Lynch, founder of Wild Child Museum & Managerie, a non-profit indoor play space operating inside her local community center.
We discuss the strategic advantages of starting in a low-overhead location — including building a loyal customer base, growing a healthy financial foundation, and securing community and business sponsors — before moving into a larger, more costly space.
Topics covered include:
This episode offers practical insights for play space owners interested in sustainable growth, community partnerships, and non-profit operations.
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Connect with Wild Child Museum & Managerie:
🌐 Website: wildchildmuseum.org
📸 Instagram: @wildchildmuseum
📘 Facebook: Wild Child Museum & Managerie
OTHER RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist]
What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide
Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training]
Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist
Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel
Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
2 TICKETS LEFT FOR PLAY MAKER SOCIETY LIVE: https://www.michelecaruana.com/playmakerslive2025
Is your indoor playground or play café business ready for more freedom, flexibility, and revenue?
In this episode, I share how a simple keypad entry system can completely transform your business operations. Whether you're hoping to reduce your reliance on staff, offer after-hours access, or turn your space into a community hub, this upgrade might be the highest ROI decision you make this year.
💡 What You'll Learn in This Episode:
This episode is packed with actionable tips for play café owners ready to work smarter—not harder.
🎧 Tune in and learn how to turn your front door into a revenue-generating asset.
🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned:
Episode 263: My Interview with Heather
OTHER RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist]
What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide
Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training]
Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist
Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel
Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
If you’re listening in real time, you know that summer is just around the corner—and if your foot traffic or bookings are starting to dip, you’re not alone. This season can catch even the most prepared indoor playground owners off guard. But here’s the good news: even if you didn’t get a summer plan in place months ago, it’s not too late to make a real impact on your revenue.
In this episode, I’m sharing creative, actionable, and low-lift ways to boost income quickly—even if you’re starting from scratch. These are strategies I used myself when we were struggling through slow summer seasons, and they helped us not only stay afloat but thrive.
I’ll walk you through how to:
Remember, these don’t all need to be complicated or time-consuming. Many of these ideas can be launched in a day or two using the resources you already have—and just one or two can make a big difference in your bottom line this summer.
If you want help launching any of these ideas fast, be sure to check the show notes for links to free resources and templates inside Play Cafe Academy. And if you’re in Play Maker Society, bring your questions to our next group call and I’ll walk you through them step-by-step.
Don’t let the slower season catch you off guard. Let’s get creative, stay scrappy, and make this your most profitable summer yet.
Episodes & Resources Mentioned:
Mobile Event Business Toolkit ($37)
Episode 204: Summer Memberships
Episode 99: Calculating ROI Of Renting That Booth
Episode 325: Parent-Only Event Ideas
Episode 249: Reuse Party Supplies And Make Extra Money Selling Busy Bags
OTHER RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist]
What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide
Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training]
Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist
Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel
Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
Play Makers Live 2025 Registration and Information (6 Tickets Left!)
In this episode of the Profitable Play Podcast, I’m diving into Part 2 of our AI mini-series, and this time it’s all about how to get better results from ChatGPT. I’m sharing the exact tips and strategies I use as an indoor playground owner to write better prompts, train ChatGPT to match my voice, and streamline my content creation and operations. I’ll also walk you through how I use other AI tools to automate tasks like scheduling, creating videos, and designing graphics. If you’ve ever felt like AI was giving you “meh” results, this episode will change the game for you.
👉 If you missed Part 1, be sure to go back and listen to last week’s episode first HERE!
OTHER RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist]
What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide
Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training]
Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist
Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel
Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
If you’ve ever joked about being the “lazy” play cafe owner—this episode is for you. (And if you’re offended by that term… take a deep breath and trust me on this one.) I know you're not actually lazy—you’re just juggling everything: your business, your family, your sanity… and trying to keep it all together. So in this episode, I’m sharing 8 of my favorite next-level AI hacks that help me save time, reduce stress, and focus on what actually matters.
This isn’t your basic AI 101. These are practical, time-saving tools I use daily as a business owner—whether you’ve already started experimenting with AI or have no clue where to begin, you’ll walk away with real strategies you can use today.
BLOG for this episode (if you prefer to read to follow along!)
💡 In This Episode, I Share:
📌 Resources I Mention:
👉 Want more step-by-step AI help? My Free AI Training for Indoor Playground Owners
👉 Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
🎧 Stay tuned for Part 2, where I’ll be sharing even more creative ways to use AI to grow your indoor playground—without adding more to your to-do list.
Thank you to Aluvii for sponsoring this episode!
OTHER RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist]
What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide
Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training]
Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist
Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel
Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
In this episode of the Profitable Play Podcast, we’re diving into what success can look like for indoor playground owners who are introverted, non-confrontational, or just prefer to lead from behind the scenes. I’m sharing practical strategies for managing staff, setting boundaries with customers, and marketing your business—even if you don’t love being on camera or in the spotlight. You'll learn how to build a thriving business that aligns with your personality, avoids burnout, and still attracts loyal customers. Whether you're just starting out or reevaluating your role in your business, this episode will help you find a sustainable, authentic way to lead.
Episode 50: Setting Boundaries In Your Business
Episode 185: User Generated Content For Your Business
Free Training: Using AI In Your Indoor Playground Business
Get a FREE Aluvii Demo With Our PCA Discount
OTHER RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Getting Started With Your Play Cafe [YouTube Video Playlist]
What's Working In The Indoor Play Industry 2025 Guide
Fund Your Indoor Play Business [Free Training]
Indoor Play Courses & 1:1 Consulting Waitlist
Play Cafe Academy YouTube Channel
Prepare Your Indoor Playground For a Recession
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF WellnessLiving: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
In this episode, I'm sharing three unique yet proven event ideas to help indoor playground owners boost revenue during the tricky spring season, bridging the gap between winter excitement and summer camp busyness. From hosting a fun and profitable "Mom-Friend Speed Dating" night, to a practical "Busy Bag" crafting event, to a strategic "Summer Camp Sampler," you'll leave this episode with a specific plan of action and ready to energize your community and drive business during typically slower months.
Host a Profitable Busy Bag Event (DOWNLOAD)
How To Host The Best Easter Egg Hunt (VIDEO)
Mother's Day Vendor Events (PODCAST)
Host A Successful Character Event (VIDEO)
Stuffed Animal Adoption Event Ideas (VIDEO)
Play Cafe Academy & Play Maker Society
LEARN MORE ABOUT ALUVII AND SCHEDULE A DEMO: https://aluvii.com/play-cafe-academy
OTHER RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Getting Started YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HfYkEnvPJdo&list=PLKNxpFOU7ITc6BrH_EHl4DuHqWqdUoTZU
What's Working 2025 Guide: http://bit.ly/3GwXQAS
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Socity: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Fund Your Indoor Play Business: http://bit.ly/38KbYbz
Courses & Consulting: http://bit.ly/3N7bPAI
Indoor Playground Business Courses: https://bit.ly/37yCxAC
Michele’s Instagram: https://bit.ly/3Ia4PTK
Michele’s Website: https://www.michelecaruana.com
YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3JDkSe7
FREE 14-DAY Active Campaign Trial: https://bit.ly/3rjp5bP
ETSY Template Shop: https://bit.ly/40RF5D4
Recession Prep Playlist: https://www.michelecaruana.com/recessionprep
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF My POS System-Of-Choice: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF My POS System-Of-Choice: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
Considering opening a play space in a mall OR thinking of starting a very NICHE indoor playground concept? Watch this honest interview first!
In this episode, I have the pleasure of interviewing Karla, the owner of Eat and Be Hoopy, a unique business in Vermont.
Karla shares her inspiring journey as a single mother who turned her passion for hula hooping into a brick-and-mortar business. Initially offering classes and parties in clients' homes, she eventually rented a dedicated space to accommodate growing demand, especially during Vermont's colder months.
Karla's business now focuses on hosting parties and activities like hula hooping, art projects, sensory activities, and cooking classes, primarily for children aged three to nine. Located in a mall, her business benefits from foot traffic and a supportive community of small businesses, despite some challenges like space renovations and possible relocation.
Karla discusses her strategic indoor playground location choice, advertising efforts, and participation in mall events to attract families. She also shares her thoughts on seasonal business fluctuations and her plans for growth, including potential expansion to a second location and training someone to assist her.
Join us as Karla reflects on her entrepreneurial journey, the importance of starting small, and her excitement for future growth. Don't forget to check out her Instagram, "Eat and Be Hoopy," linked below, and leave your comments or suggestions for future topics. Thank you for watching!
Karla's Website: https://www.eatandbehoopy.com/
Karla's IG: @eatandbehoopy
LEARN MORE ABOUT ALUVII AND SCHEDULE A DEMO: https://aluvii.com/play-cafe-academy
OTHER RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Getting Started YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HfYkEnvPJdo&list=PLKNxpFOU7ITc6BrH_EHl4DuHqWqdUoTZU
What's Working 2025 Guide: http://bit.ly/3GwXQAS
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Socity: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Fund Your Indoor Play Business: http://bit.ly/38KbYbz
Courses & Consulting: http://bit.ly/3N7bPAI
Indoor Playground Business Courses: https://bit.ly/37yCxAC
Michele’s Instagram: https://bit.ly/3Ia4PTK
Michele’s Website: https://www.michelecaruana.com
YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3JDkSe7
FREE 14-DAY Active Campaign Trial: https://bit.ly/3rjp5bP
ETSY Template Shop: https://bit.ly/40RF5D4
Recession Prep Playlist: https://www.michelecaruana.com/recessionprep
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF My POS System-Of-Choice: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF My POS System-Of-Choice: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
FREE Book More Birthdays Challenge: https://www.michelecaruana.com/birthdaychallenge
BLOG for this Episode: https://www.michelecaruana.com/blog/increase-birthday-party-bookings
If you're an indoor playground owner looking to increase party bookings, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help fill up your calendar. Birthday parties are one of the most profitable revenue streams in your business, but if bookings are slower than you'd like, don't panic! In this episode, I walk through 10 things I would do right now, next month, and over the next quarter to boost party reservations.
If you’re looking for proven ways to increase party bookings and maximize revenue, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now and start filling your party calendar today!
OTHER RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Getting Started YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HfYkEnvPJdo&list=PLKNxpFOU7ITc6BrH_EHl4DuHqWqdUoTZU
What's Working 2025 Guide: http://bit.ly/3GwXQAS
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Socity: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Fund Your Indoor Play Business: http://bit.ly/38KbYbz
Courses & Consulting: http://bit.ly/3N7bPAI
Indoor Playground Business Courses: https://bit.ly/37yCxAC
Michele’s Instagram: https://bit.ly/3Ia4PTK
Michele’s Website: https://www.michelecaruana.com
YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3JDkSe7
FREE 14-DAY Active Campaign Trial: https://bit.ly/3rjp5bP
ETSY Template Shop: https://bit.ly/40RF5D4
Recession Prep Playlist: https://www.michelecaruana.com/recessionprep
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF My POS System-Of-Choice: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF My POS System-Of-Choice: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
Welcome back play makers! I'm excited to bring you another insightful recorded coaching call today with Meghan Hopkins, co-owner of Jungle Jamz Play Cafe. At the time of this recording, Jungle Jamz had been open for just over 3 months. In this episode, we cover:
Whether you're aiming to boost your summer bookings, increase café sales, or improve your marketing efforts, Meghan's insights and Michele's expert coaching will provide you with valuable strategies to implement in your own play cafe. Join our Play Makers Society community on Facebook to share your thoughts and questions. Don't miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform.
Jungle Jamz Website: https://www.junglejamzplaycafe.com/
Jungle Jamz IG: https://www.instagram.com/junglejamz_playcafe/
Jungle Jamz Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meghan_hopkins
OTHER RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Getting Started YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HfYkEnvPJdo&list=PLKNxpFOU7ITc6BrH_EHl4DuHqWqdUoTZU
What's Working 2025 Guide: http://bit.ly/3GwXQAS
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Socity: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Fund Your Indoor Play Business: http://bit.ly/38KbYbz
Courses & Consulting: http://bit.ly/3N7bPAI
Indoor Playground Business Courses: https://bit.ly/37yCxAC
Michele’s Instagram: https://bit.ly/3Ia4PTK
Michele’s Website: https://www.michelecaruana.com
YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3JDkSe7
FREE 14-DAY Active Campaign Trial: https://bit.ly/3rjp5bP
ETSY Template Shop: https://bit.ly/40RF5D4
Recession Prep Playlist: https://www.michelecaruana.com/recessionprep
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF My POS System-Of-Choice: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF My POS System-Of-Choice (WellnessLiving): https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy
I am excited to bring you another recording coaching call with a very-soon-to-be indoor playground owner!
Today we are speaking with Ashima who is located in the Boston area and recently signed her lease to open a business called Stem Spot, which you can hear more about in Ashima's own words if you tune in.
Ashima is finalizing all of her pre-opening details and so in this call we focus on things like:
This episode is perfect whether you are opening a new business or looking to refine your current business!
Stem Spot Website: https://www.stem-spot.com/
Stem Spot IG: https://www.instagram.com/stem_spot
RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Episode 245 How To Increase Prices Effectively: https://bit.ly/4chHlZb
OTHER RESOURCES:
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Getting Started YouTube Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HfYkEnvPJdo&list=PLKNxpFOU7ITc6BrH_EHl4DuHqWqdUoTZU
What's Working 2025 Guide: http://bit.ly/3GwXQAS
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Socity: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Fund Your Indoor Play Business: http://bit.ly/38KbYbz
Courses & Consulting: http://bit.ly/3N7bPAI
Indoor Playground Business Courses: https://bit.ly/37yCxAC
Michele’s Instagram: https://bit.ly/3Ia4PTK
Michele’s Website: https://www.michelecaruana.com
YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/3JDkSe7
FREE 14-DAY Active Campaign Trial: https://bit.ly/3rjp5bP
ETSY Template Shop: https://bit.ly/40RF5D4
Recession Prep Playlist: https://www.michelecaruana.com/recessionprep
Play Cafe Academy & Play Makers Society: http://bit.ly/3HES7fD
Questions and Support: Support@michelecaruana.com
Simplify and Scale with 50% OFF My POS System-Of-Choice: https://discover.wellnessliving.com/playcafeacademy