443: Amusement Park
Summary
This episode explores the world of amusement parks, centering on Cole Lindberg, a passionate games manager at Kansas City’s Worlds of Fun who fosters employee morale through quirky competitions and videos. The show also features listener anecdotes ranging from romantic proposals and scary ride mishaps to humorous encounters with carnival workers. Finally, writer Jonathan Goldstein recounts his awkward teenage summer working at a New Jersey boardwalk park, reflecting on his youth and the fleeting nature of such experiences.
Topics discussed
Intro: Cole Lindberg and the Sweet 16 tournament at Worlds of Fun
Cole's YouTube videos and uncool management style
Staff strategies: Banana suits, pyramids, and rigged games
Cole's career choice, dropping out of college, and future fears
Listener stories: Creepy carnies, lost rings, and fair mishaps
Jonathan Goldstein's summer job at a Jersey Shore arcade
Dutz Bonus Jr.: The human paintball target entertainer
Outro, Life Partners, and next week's preview
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