ACE - Ride With Us

Coaster Quests: Exploring Theme Parks on Epic Road Trips

Our podcast team isn't just our fantastic co-hosts, John Davidson and Jessica Gardner. It's a group of enthusiastic volunteers who work behind the scenes to put everything together.
This week, we bring one of those behind-the-scenes ACE members to the forefront to talk about one of our favorite topics: theme park road trips and vacations!
Meet Liz Tan, your show notes author and world traveler. Liz chats with John about the many theme park trips she and her family have taken. From Legoland Malaysia and Hong Kong Disneyland to destinations closer to home like the Columbus Zoo, Dorney Park, Cedar Point, and more, Liz shares her experiences. She also discusses the joys of incorporating theme park trips into longer vacations and the flexibility of working remotely while enjoying different theme parks across the country.
In this episode, John and Liz define different types of theme park trips, including day trips, road trips, add-on trips, and destination trips. We would love to hear about your theme park road trips too!
Episode Highlights:
[00:00] Meet Liz (hi!)
[02:25] Destination Trips
[03:30] Day Trips
[05:45] Extended Weekend Getaways
[13:56] Add-on Trips
[20:45] Road Trips
[27:30] Road Trips: RV / Camper Adventures
Join the team of ACE volunteers! Volunteering offers various ways to share your talents, such as:
Having an impact on the future of ACE
Enjoying rewarding experiences
Developing friendships within a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE
Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.
Podcast Volunteer Team:
Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson
Producer/Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Project Manager: Corey Wooten 
 

Coaster Con 45 - Part 3: The Final Loop and ACE Event Rundown for July 2023

Can you believe it? We're in the heart of theme park season and Coaster Con 45 is now just a memory! Join us as we revisit the unforgettable thrills of this grand event one last time.
Feeling the Coaster Con blues? Don't worry! We've got you covered with a rundown of exciting July events happening in your region, guaranteed to keep your adrenaline pumping until we gather again for the next Coaster Con in Northern California. 
In this episode: 
[00:21] - Coaster Con Recap from Hosts Jessica and John [28:50] - Late Summer ACE Event Teasers[30:43] - ACE Events for July 2023 [36:44] - Jessica's Favorite Rides from Coaster Con
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Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:
Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE
Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.
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Podcast Volunteer Team 
Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Project Manager: Corey Wooten

Coaster Con 45 - Part 2: Live From Carowinds

Coaster Con 45 - Part 2: Live from Carowinds
Coaster Con 45 has finally drawn to an exhilarating close! Our dynamic co-host, Jessica Gardner, along with the vibrant "Ride With Us" podcast team, have concluded an unforgettable week at the thrilling Carowinds in Charlotte, North Carolina.
We're excited to bring you a plethora of riveting content from the final leg of the Con, featuring a diverse mix of our passionate ACE members and the dedicated park employees. 
In this episode: 
[01:22] Pete Owens (Dollywood) 
[35:32] Elizabeth Ringas (ACE President)
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Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:
Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE
Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.
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Podcast Volunteer Team 
Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson Producer: Derek Perry Editor: Bob Randolph Show Notes: Liz Tan  Project Manager: Corey Wooten

Coaster Con 45 - Part 1: Live from Dollywood

Coaster Con 45 - Part 1: Live from Dollywood
The week we've all been eagerly anticipating is finally here – it's time for Coaster Con 2023!
Our radiant co-host, Jessica Gardner (along with the majority of the vivacious "Ride With Us" podcast team) has set the stage at the dazzling Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
We're excited to be bringing you an abundance of thrilling content, featuring an eclectic mix of our enthusiastic ACE members and the dedicated park employees. 
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Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:
Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE
Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.
 
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Podcast Volunteer Team 
Hosts: Jessica Gardner and John Davidson Producer: Derek Perry Editor: Bob Randolph Show Notes: Liz Tan  Project Manager: Corey Wooten

It Takes a Village... or Two! Give Kids The World Village and Knott’s Fiesta Village

It Takes a Village... or Two!
In this week's episode, we explore the profound truth behind the saying, "it takes a village," as we journey to two exceptional and unique villages!
We kick off with a heartwarming visit to Give Kids the World Village, an enchanting 89-acre non-profit resort located in Kissimmee, Florida. This magical haven offers cost-free, week-long vacations to critically-ill children and their families hailing from all corners of the globe.
Our co-host, Jessica Gardner, chats with Brandon Thom, the Senior Director of Development at Give Kids the World Village, unveiling the heartening and inspiring stories behind this extraordinary initiative.
We then teleport to the vibrant Fiesta Village nestled within Knott's Berry Farm in Buena Park, CA, where Jessica meets with Creative Producer, Jim Clark, and Producer, Chris Do, amidst the jubilant atmosphere of the media event commemorating the grand reopening of this re-themed land. This not-to-be-missed conversation covers the reimagined attractions and tantalizing cuisines offered by the newly introduced restaurants.
Here's what awaits you in this episode:
[01:35] - Meet Brandon Thom
[01:52] - The Inspiring Journey of Give Kids the World
[06:34] - Coasting for Kids: Events & Advantages
[07:50] - Fiesta Village's Grand Reveal ft. Jim Clark & Chris Do
[08:05] - Getting to know Jim Clark
[17:43] - An Introduction to Chris Do
[24:50] - Wrap-up & Final Thoughts 
Join the team of ACE volunteers!Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:
Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE
Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org.
Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE).
 
Podcast Volunteer Team 
Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson Producer: Derek Perry Editor: Bob Randolph Show Notes: Liz Tan Project Manager: Corey Wooten

The First Drop: Opening the Season with Pipeline, Big Bear Mountain, and DarKoaster

As the weather warms up and parks and water parks open for the season, we're thrilled to share three (3) exciting new attractions at several parks. Get ready for a wave of thrills with Pipeline: The Surf Coaster at SeaWorld Orlando, Big Bear Mountain at Dollywood, and DarKoaster at Busch Gardens Williamsburg!
In this episode, our dynamic duo of co-hosts takes the stage. Jessica Gardner sets a new record by chatting with not one (1), not two (2), but three (3) SeaWorld Vice Presidents about Pipeline: The Surf Coaster. Join her in this live audio from the attraction's media day as she talks to Rob McNicholas, VP of Operations; Jeff Hornick, VP of Attractions Design and Development; and Clint Brinker, VP of Design and Engineering. 
We also have the pleasure of hearing from ACE Member Calista Ringas, sharing her thoughts and experiences about the epic opening day of Big Bear Mountain. And to wrap it up, co-host John Davidson interviews ACE Member Seth Angelili about the much-anticipated opening of DarKoaster.
Timestamps:
[00:25] Rob McNicholas
[7:33] Jeff Hornick
[13:01] Jessica loves the Pipeline merch!
[14:09] Clint Brinker
[21:00] Calista Ringas on Big Bear Mountain
[36:51] John joins the chat with Seth Angelili to discuss DarKoaster
Want to make a difference and join our team of ACE volunteers? By volunteering, you can shape the future of ACE, enjoy rewarding experiences, forge friendships in a close-knit group, and develop new skills or share your talents with ACE.
Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Learn more about the American Coaster Enthusiasts, a non-profit organization, at ridewithace.com.
Podcast Volunteer Team: 
Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Project Manager: Corey Wooten

Lone Star Coasterthon and ACE Event Rundown for June 2023

In this week's episode, our podcast co-host, Jessica Gardner, sits down with ACE member and volunteer Rachel Hawkins (@rachello26) to chat about the recent Lone Star Coasterthon event held at Six Flags Over Texas. Rachel takes us through the logistics and excitement of this event and explains how it has gained popularity over the years. Tune in for all the exciting details!
Moving on, we have a fantastic lineup of upcoming ACE events to kick off  peak season for coaster enthusiasts:
[0:50] Meet Rachel Hawkins
[4:15] Lone Star Coasterthon Recap
[18:00] June Events Overview
Don't forget to like and follow the ACE Facebook Page, as well as the regional pages that interest you. 
If you're passionate about roller coasters and amusement parks, consider joining the team of ACE volunteers. It's a great way to make an impact on the future of ACE, have rewarding experiences, develop friendships, and share your talents.
We value your ideas and thoughts about this podcast. Feel free to share your feedback via email at podcast@aceonline.org. To learn more about the American Coaster Enthusiasts, visit ridewithace.com.
Podcast Volunteer Team:Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John DavidsonProducer: Derek PerryEditor: Bob RandolphShow Notes: Liz TanProject Manager: Corey Wooten

R is for Roller Coaster: An ABC Guide for Future Thrill Seekers

About the Episode
Join us for an exciting discussion as author and ACE member, Aimee Carver, joins our co-host Jessica Gardner. Get ready to dive into the thrilling world of coasters with Aimee's captivating new book, "R is for Roller Coaster: An ABC Guide for Future Thrill Seekers."
This exhilarating read takes young riders and readers on an alphabetical journey; exploring coaster elements, physics, mechanics, engineering, and design. It's an adventure you won't want to miss! 
The book is packed with easy-to-digest definitions and stunning full-color photography, making it a perfect guide for young enthusiasts. It even includes a "My First Roller Coaster" log for them to complete!
Episode Timeline
[01:30] Aimee's coaster history: Discover Aimee's personal connection with roller coasters and how her passion for them led her to write this incredible book.
[07:15] Encouraging the next generation: Join the conversation as we explore the importance of inspiring and introducing young riders to the thrilling world of roller coasters.
[12:30] Inspiration for the book and selecting great photos: Learn about the creative process behind Aimee's book, including how she chose captivating photos that bring the coaster experience to life
[21:04] Reading the book for an ACE event: Hear about Aimee's experience sharing her book with the ACE community at an event and the excitement it brought to fellow coaster enthusiasts.
[24:00] Aimee's self-publishing journey: Get insights into Aimee's self-publishing experience and the rewarding process of bringing her vision to life.
Featured Guest 
Check out Aimee's Instagram: @risforrollercoaster, or send her an email: risforrollercoaster@gmail.com, and be sure to order your copy of "R is for Roller Coaster: An ABC Guide for Future Thrill Seekers!"
ACE Updates
Join the team of ACE volunteers and make an impact on the future of ACE. By volunteering, you'll have opportunities for rewarding experiences, develop friendships, learn new skills, and share your talents with ACE.
We want to hear from you! Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization, American Coaster Enthusiasts.
Podcast Volunteer Team
Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan
Project Manager: Corey Wooten

[Minicast] Countdown to Coaster Con 45: Behind the Scenes at Carowinds

Join us for a thrilling episode as our podcast project manager, Corey Wooten, broadcasts from his home park, Carowinds!
He sits down with Carowinds' Director of Communications, Courtney Weber, and Brand Activation Manager, Chris, for an inside look at attractions, park planning, construction, and theming. But that's not all - we also have a special interview with Steve Jackson, Director of Maintenance and Construction, where we dive into the logistics of coaster construction and Carowinds' transition to year-round operations.
This episode is packed with excitement, as we get the scoop on what Coaster Con attendees can expect to experience at Carowinds. 
Episode Timeline:
[03:15] Unveiling the greatness of Fury 325
[06:18] Answering common questions
[08:39] Food offerings (and funnel cake!)
[15:30] Steve Jackson joins the chat
[17:10] The logistics of coaster construction
[20:02] Carowinds' transition to year-round operations
[23:44] What Coaster Con attendees should experience at Carowinds (everything!)
Join the team of ACE volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:
Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE
Share your ideas and thoughts about this podcast via email: podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about the non-profit organization American Coaster Enthusiasts.
Podcast Volunteer Team 
Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John Davidson
Producer: Derek Perry
Editor: Bob Randolph
Show Notes: Liz Tan, fan of funnel cake
Project Manager: Corey Wooten
Cover Art Photography: Anthony Saporito 
 

The Art and Science of Coaster Construction

Constructing a new roller coaster is no small feat, and the anticipation surrounding the arrival of each new coaster often leads to extensive tracking and speculation on social media in the weeks and months leading up to opening day. However, there's much more to the story than what we see on social media.
In this week's episode, co-hosts Jessica Gardner and John Davidson dive deeper into the process of coaster construction by exploring the stories behind three coasters that have been under construction throughout the winter season.
First, John introduces us to Dan Leavelle, co-owner of Midway Mayhem and Site Build Supervisor at Skyline Attractions, who provides an insider's perspective on the construction of 'Pipeline: The Surf Coaster' at SeaWorld Orlando. Then, Jessica talks with Jim Potter, VP of Maintenance and Rides at SeaWorld San Diego, about the park's new 'Arctic Rescue' coaster. Finally, ACE's Secretary, Jeff Niemiec, joins us to discuss 'Big Bear Mountain' at Dollywood and provide his insights on the construction process.
 
Episode Timestamps: 
[01:40] - Dan Leavelle on ‘Pipeline: The Surf Coaster’
[23:42] - Jim Potter on ‘Arctic Rescue’ 
[29:11] - Jeff Niemiec on ‘Big Bear Mountain’ 
 
Announcements: 
Like and follow American Coaster Enthusiasts on Facebook, along with the regional pages that interest you. Coaster Con 45 registration is open! Watch this space for more information about the event.
Join ACE's team of volunteers. Volunteering offers different ways to share your talents by:
Having an impact on the future of ACE
Providing opportunities for rewarding experiences
Developing friendships in a small group
Learning new skills or sharing your talents with ACE 
Share your thoughts and ideas about the podcast by emailing us at podcast@aceonline.org. Visit ridewithace.com to learn more about our non-profit organization, American Coaster Enthusiasts.
 
Podcast Volunteer Team
Hosts: Jessica Gardner & John DavidsonProducer: Derek PerryEditor: Bob RandolphShow Notes: Liz Tan Project Manager: Corey Wooten