Side Friction: Roller Coasters and the Parks They Live In

Side Friction - Episode 135 - "Copy, Paste, Ride" July 4th, 2026 Bob, Greg, and Ryan the Ride Mechanic talk about the latest industry news, tracking executives between park chains, Roller Coaster Tycoon, and whatever else happens to pop up. Holiday World unveils plans for 22 million USD water coaster Comcast announces NBCUniversal spinoff; what it means for Universal theme parks Six Flags site redevelopment will be guided by entertainment, housing and innovation Maryland is facing its first summer without Six Flags America. Here's where families are heading Six Flags Over Georgia closes new roller coaster for the season Six Flags Entertainment (FUN) Appoints Mark Pauls as COO Effective July 2026 Kings Island's next big roller coaster may be hiding in Atlanta Six Flags Sets New Opening Date for Its Record-Breaking Dive Coaster After Unexpected Delay Project Purple Topped Off  Joris en de Draak Titan Track cracks Ride the Wildcat at America's oldest continuously operating amusement park Neural Render Proxies for Interactive and Differentiable Lighting Marineland belugas one step closer to getting new homes Marineland Reportedly Sending Deer & Elk to Slaughter Disney World Guest's Phone Charger Catches Fire in Line for 'It's a Small World' Ride, Prompting Brief Closure Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 134 - "Gargantuan Vertical Waterfall" June 27th, 2026 Bob, Ryan the Ride Mechanic and Steph talk about some disappointing news, weird news, and then a few bits of good news with a whole lot of extra conversation in between in another entertaining episode. Realistic Mario - Oren Brimer as Luigi  Disney details plans to make dark ride vehicles disappear   Fun Spot to close Atlanta location in August  Fun Spot Atlanta family, thank you for the memories… Universal Kids Resort promised family thrills, but delivered a $550M concrete carnival Six Flags Postpones Record-Breaking Dive Roller Coaster 4 Days Before Grand Opening Is Six Flags' new coaster Phantom Spire? What the park is and isn't saying  Teen climbs out of Disneyland attraction mid-ride, taken to hospital Man banned from Kennywood after trespassing in restricted area, officials say Nashville Shores waterpark sold to out-of-state company for more than $12 million  Cedar Point confirms metal piece fell from roller coaster after guest claims she was 'almost' hit https://www.facebook.com/jaymarisant/videos/1059603686586649/  Fan favorite Whizzer roller coaster reopens at Six Flags Great America Knott's Berry Farm tests Montezooma launch coaster at full speed Zachs get half-price admission at Michigan's Adventure Friday BBQ Train Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 133 - "Get Stuck, Have Fun, Don't Die" June 20th, 2026 Bob, Greg, Ryan the Ride Mechanic have a fun collection of news stories along with more ride stoppages, the AI invastion, and share an example of why martial arts may not be ideal for automation. Hersheypark, GIANT Center union workers ratify contract, company says Star-Spangled Laff Trakk 4 rescued after ride stalls 120 feet in air at Six Flags St. Louis Man Attends Video Meeting From Active Roller Coaster Disney's Imagineering Announces Partnership with Adobe Firefly to Use AI Models for Park Designs  Get ready for Disney's big AI ads push  Top Disney AI Exec Gushes About Chatbot Assistant He Calls His 'Son' - Business Insider  Ocean City Boardwalk Subcommittee proposes alternative to "Icona in Wonderland" British roller coaster club visits Memphis Kiddie Park Criminality not suspected after 12 kids sent to hospital in electrical incident at B.C. water park Amusement Park Guests Had to Be 'Rappelled' to the Ground on Ropes After Being Stranded on Gondola Ride Alabama Adventure announces the return of Rampage the wooden roller coaster and teases major upcoming announcement More Spikes! You have to see this! Child kicked by robot at amusement park Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 132 - "The Don" June 13th, 2026 Bob, Ryan the Ride Mechanic and Steph know it's not winter because it's hot outside but with all the announcements this week you'd think it was winter. This is a show you'll certainly want to listen to not only because it's a fun show but because there's a ton of cool stuff being talked about this week. Waldameer Unveils New 'Eagle's Pursuit' Coaster for 2027  Eagle's Pursuit POV  2026 New Attraction | Fun-Plex - Omaha, Nebraska  Funtime Fun Park Announcement Facebook Free Funtime Video  New in 2027 | Rip Roarin' Falls | Carowinds  Rip Roarin' Falls POV at Carowinds!  Pennsylvania amusement park rolls out memberships for first time  Kennywood chaperone policy in effect all day June 6 This Amusement Park Just Announced Strict Chaperone Policy for Teens of a Certain Age  Fire breaks out under Six Flags Magic Mountain roller coaster Terrifying 'Tilt' Coaster Strands Riders at 160 Feet in the Air Twice in One Weekend Riders briefly stuck on Untamed Roller Coaster at Canobie Lake Park Ride mechanic says roller coasters are built to fail safely People Named Ryan To Take Over Mall Of America For Free Roller Coaster Record Attempt Holiday World teasing huge announcement: 'We've been keeping a secret' unknown - Coolspring Ranch (Mercer, Pennsylvania, United States) Tidal Force at Pennsylvania's Largest Amusement Park | Hersheypark  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 131 - "Rescue 1-0-0" June 6th, 2026 Bob and Greg present a shorter show but one with some interesting (and some unexpected) stories. Everyone In This LEGO Dispute Should Have Spoken To A Lawyer Earlier Than They Did  Hersheypark Contract Offer Rejected; Strike Authorized  Watch rescue after rollercoaster stalls 100ft in the air How Galveston firefighters rescued 8 Houston students stranded 100 feet up on stalled roller coaster Officials determine failed sensor caused Galveston roller coaster to stop in mid-air Step right up to amusement park history in Grafton Polargy acquires Intermountain Lift Six Flags Great America brings back popular roller coaster after 10-year hiatus Six Flags Fiesta Texas unleashes Werewolf Gorge, the world's longest family launch roller coaster Is Dollywood's new NightFlight Expedition ride on track to open this spring?  Man accused of depantsing Cedar Point guest entered park illegally: police Universal Officially Reveals the Name of its First U.K. Theme Park Opening in 2031 Disney racks up $4.2bn deficit on Paris parks Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 130 - "Round Rage" May 30th, 2026 Bob, Greg, and Ryan the Ride Mechanic start with the expected chicken nugget story, well, after a rabbit trail of course. The rest of the show covers about an equal mix of news and rabbit trails. Cedar Point guest gets lifetime ban from Six Flags parks for roller coaster stunt 'I understand': Man speaks out after Cedar Point bans him for eating nuggets on coaster Hagrid's Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure Will be Discontinued for Universal Orlando's Express Pass Hagrid's Equality SpongeBob, Shrek and Minions are getting a new theme park this summer Frontal Lobe: Home Edition Frontal Lobe Ride  A Nearly 100-Year-Old Roller Coaster Reopens This Weekend After Being Shut Down Over Safety Concerns The First Roller Coaster Is Going Up At Oasis, And They Named It 'Shootout': Here's What We Know Mattel's immersive indoor water park coming to North Carolina Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress refresh to bring new decades, Easter eggs to Tomorrowland classic Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 129 - "Cheaper than a Ballroom" May 23rd, 2026 Bob and Ryan the Ride Mechanic have a lot of fun and entertaining conversations about the recent news in the park industry and step into the tech industry a bit including an incredibly cool project you can build. Google Search as you know it is over  Project Purple, Six Flags coaster coming in 2027. What we know about it Cedar Point Officials Address Fans' Claims They Installed Shorter Seat Belts on Beloved Coaster 'Gross negligence': COTA roller coaster riders stuck 120 feet in the air file $1M lawsuit Get a First Look at the New Rock 'n' Roller Coaster at Disney World — Including the First Animatronic Muppets  Disneyland targeted in class-action lawsuit claiming new program is violating guests' privacy Bring Disneyland Home With This Gorgeous New Lego Set RCT IRL: Roller Coaster Tycoon Ratings in Real Life  First look at Nate Bargatze's $350 million Nateland theme park Verbolten: Forbidden Turn roller coaster to open at Busch Gardens Williamsburg on May 30  Why Dolly Parton Doesn't Ride the Coasters at Dollywood — and Why She Might Finally Break Her Own Rule Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 128 - "Ultra Plywood Canyon" May 16th, 2026 Bob, Greg, and Ryan the Ride Mechanic are back to talk about a selection of dumb park moves, Six Flags Themeing, parks that are closing (and aren't) as well as some other random stuff including the typical off the rails talk mixed in. Cedar Point cancels 'Morning Rush' after fan outcry Cedar Point's Coastermania is back with 12 exclusive rides. Six Flags Magic Mountain on lockdown as armored police trucks roll in Purple Parking Lot Coaster Man Left Dangling on Suspended 'Tilt' Coaster for Over an Hour Sues Texas Theme Park Woman Describes Being Stuck in the Rain for Nearly an Hour on a Roller Coaster Florida officials launch criminal investigation into death of 31 sloths at now-closed "Sloth World" Warehouse permitted for cars, not animals Accreditation | Association of Zoos & Aquariums  Breaking! Mythos survived nearly every era of Universal Orlando — until now Hersheypark locked in union dispute ahead of its summer opening 'Not the outcome we wanted': Niagara Amusement Park and Splash World won't open for Summer 2026 Niagara Amusement Park won't open for 2026 season; Grand Island fireworks still a go  Regal Debuts Reimagined Roller Coaster Intro Before All Showtimes on May 8 Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 127 - "Gone Wild" May 2nd, 2026 Bob, Greg and Steph keep rabbit trails to a minimum this week but that's only because a lot of the stories in the news are entertaining enough so there is plenty to laugh at even amongst some of the negative stories for the week. Over 1,000 Teens Storm Icon Park in Orlando as Fights Break Out and Deputies Are Injured, Leading to 9 Arrests  Sheriff sends clear warning to stop 2nd planned 'Takeover' of Icon Park  Chaos at Six Flags St. Louis opening day as 'large fight' involving 100 people breaks out  Six Flags ride abruptly shut down over cell phone violation, leaving riders stuck 200ft high Ride collapses at amusement park in Brazil, video shows  Six Flags New England shares information regarding ride evacuation Q&A with new Carowinds boss as Six Flags shakes up leadership across its parks  Thirty-one sloths die in Florida before opening of attraction Epic Universe News Update: Open Hub Technology and Fireworks Tests Court fight puts local coaster at risk as county alleges lease violations at Lakemont Park 2,000 bats, cavern glow-up among wild changes at Magic Kingdom's Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Family-Owned Amusement Park Named Best in the U.S. for 2026 — and It's Free to Enter Knoebels Amusement Resort marks 100th anniversary 3 Bald Eagles Remain Missing from Sanctuary at Dolly Parton's Dollywood After Storm Damaged Enclosure  Restored Smithsonian carousel returns to the National Mall 60-Ton Animatronic Dinosaur Bursts Into Flames at Kansas Theme Park After Getting Struck by Lightning  Lightning strike destroys Touchdown Jesus statue  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 126 - "Balls" April 25th, 2026 Bob, Greg, Ryan the Ride Mechanic and Steph talk about..... everything? While touching upon huge park rumors and other industry news it seems like every corner brings another rabbit trail and tons of laughs.  Six Flags names park presidents returning to 10 properties | blooloop  Possible sale of Six Flags parks to Herschend Rumor Additional Six Flags Parks Up For Sale?  Jeffrey Siebert Leaves Six Flags  Quantum Accelerator valleyed Cedar Point gate tickets to exceed $100  3 sue Six Flags St. Louis for waterslide injuries Hersheypark backs off mask guidance after backlash Disney Parks Brings Back "Ladies and Gentlemen"  COTALAND, Austin's first major theme park, expected to open this summer  Wild Moose on the loose Camden Park selling vintage Ferris wheel cars Disneyland loosens up on facial recognition Eddie's House of Monsters at Indiana Beach Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 125 - "Temu Hat" April 18th, 2026 Bob, Greg and Ryan the Ride Mechanic talk forever about all kinds of fun things and that's before the show gets going and then the randomness kicks up the entertainment even while talking about the numerous stories from the industry this week. This may be one of the best episodes of the show and you'll not want to skip it. Preshow talk BFRO Report 80011  Spaceballs: The New One  Hershey to resume using chocolate in most products; Reese's grandson may taste sweet victory  Bigfoot in Ohio? Reports of 'sightings' are going viral on social media  Six Flags reverses course and brings back park presidents Six Flags New England unveils Quantum Accelerator roller coaster Speedy Gonzales Hot Rod Racers Cedar Point will technically have one less roller coaster this year - mlive.com  Disney reveals opening date, setlist for revamped Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets Mickey Mouse's sorcerer hat returns to Disney's Hollywood Studios New Universal Studios roller coaster goes full throttle with real people onboard Something Was Spotted at Newest Universal Park That Suggests a Big Access Change Is Coming Universal Orlando now offering single-use Universal Express "Express Now" option Busch Gardens Williamsburg reveals 2026 roller coaster, Verbolten: Forbidden Turn North Carolina's iconic Wizard of Oz theme park known as 'Land of Oz' to reopen after Helene Kennywood Park celebrates anniversaries and new attractions for 2026 season Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 124 - "Show Some Restraint" April 11th, 2026 Bob, Greg and CoasterBro (from Coaster Cuzzies) talk about enchantment, monsters, wolves, and some roller coaster stuff too recapping the news of the week. How $65 can get you into eight theme parks -Enchanted Parks pass details Six Flags Cedar Point removes classic 'Monster' ride Kings Island: Perks & Play Season Passholder Preview Maryland-native Kevin Durant's investment group buys former Six Flags property  What Prince George's Co. doesn't want at the Six Flags site  Parents charged with child endangerment after incident at ZooAmerica How a costume maker convinced Hersheypark to 'chocolatize' their old‑timey theme park A surprise new Superman game hopes to break a gaming curse, but it's also locked in one location Knoebels releasing "Images of America" book for 100th season  Disney World's Big Thunder Mountain Railroad reopening date set  New ride coming to Arnolds Park Amusement Park  https://www.verticalreality.com/  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 123 - "Hungry for More" April 4th, 2026 Bob, Greg and Ryan the Ride Mechanic talk about tech frustrations in and out of the industry, Disney mishaps, Universal, various other stories.... and a lot of food for some reason. A slightly shorter episode than normal but just as entertaining. Is Disney building a new theme park in Cincinnati, Ohio? Fact check Disney park visitors traumatized as crows attack Rapunzel in distressing video: 'Definitely tangled now'  'Olaf just melted': Video shows brand new 'Frozen' robot freeze, topple over at Disney park  Disney World selling park tickets for entry after 2 p.m.  Demolition Work Starting in Lost Continent at Islands of Adventure World's Largest Rubber Duck to nest at Holiday World before summer kicks off RollerCoaster Tycoon YouTuber builds ride lasting 194 quattorseptuagintillion years Knott's Berry Farm to open reimagined Montezooma coaster this summer An iconic Jersey Shore amusement park wheel is being restored and reconstructed in Phoenixville Phantom Theater Photos  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 122 - "Milking the Rumors" March 28th, 2026 Bob, Greg and Steph have everything to talk about this week. United Parks gets sued, Six Flags continues their soap opera, tons of rumors flying around, and new stuff is coming as the season is rapidly approaching. Feds sue Busch Gardens and SeaWorld over 'rollator walkers' ban Six Flags announces board shakeup amid pressure, changes to theme parks New attractions inspired by the Jersey Shore coming to Six Flags Great Adventure Worlds of Fun announces return of iconic Timber Wolf roller coaster this summer Rumor: Waldameer 2027 Shipment from Vekoma Is the Cyclone Coaster Coming Back to Colorado's Lakeside Amusement Park in 2026?  Come ride the Cyclone Rumor: This will be Elitch's last year Rumor: ANOTHER RMC Coaster Coming To New Jersey?! Disney's deal with OpenAI, which the companies struck in December, will be dissolved. Screaming Centipede Lake Winnie new coaster Tweetsie Railroad  Kennywood Preps For Upcoming Season: New Events, Eateries Added Stardust Racers Reopens Ahead of Schedule at Epic Universe Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 121 - "Keep Your Wood" March 21st, 2026 Bob, Greg and Ryan the Ride Mechanic cover a whole lot of stuff this week including a whole bunch of potential wood coaster revivals as well as corporations being corporations and United Parks being, well, United Parks. Amongst all of the news there are plenty of laughs and rabbit trails to keep this an entertaining episode you won't want to miss. SeaWorld sued over mishandling 'Sesame Street' brand, unpaid royalties Jana Partners pushes Six Flags to explore sale, replace board chair, letter says Storm tears open historic Rye Playland music tower  Rye Playland Sets 2026 Opening Dates and Fees, Confirms Dragon Coaster Comeback Playland's Iconic Dragon Coaster Getting Back on Track  Rampage at Alabama Adventure to Reopen in Summer of 2026!   Lakeside Cyclone Work?  World's of Fun Titan Teaser  Behind the Bricks of Galacticoaster at LEGOLAND This 100-Year-Old Amusement Park Still Hasn't Lost Its Retro Charm 100 Years of Knoebels  WhiteWater's Vantage platform selected by Enchanted Parks Vantage's Smart Park Platform  Vantage at Island H2O Live! Waterpark in Kissimmee, Florida Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 120 - "Half Dozen Wings" March 14th, 2026 Bob, Greg and Ryan the Ride Mechanic go so far off the rails this week that they likely left the park a few times. A fair amount of news gets covered, some speculation, and lots of rabbit trail all combine for an incredibly fun episode. Travis Kelce Joins Six Flags as Brand Ambassador for 2026 The Family Auto Mart  Six Flags Park Begins Major Revitalization Ahead of 2026 Season as Company Sells off 7 Properties Disneyland hazmat incident sends seven cast members to hospital Stardust  Racers closure extended again at Epic Universe, now through April 5 Guests sent to hospital after 'ride pause' made them feel unwell, SeaWorld Orlando says Belugas facing euthanasia at shuttered Canada theme park may find new homes in US Muskegon County leaders react to sale of Michigan's biggest amusement park Swimming beach next up for Geauga Lake redevelopment Tyler center displays Idora Park artifacts Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 119 - "Mammoth Deal" March 7th, 2026 Bob, Greg and Ryan the Ride Mechanic talk about huge news... you might even call it mammoth! There's only a couple real stories this week but you'll hear lots of entertaining information and stories in the abundance of rabbit trails this week. 2026 New Attraction Wild Adventures launches 30th anniversary season  The Harlem Globetrotters want to join the NBA  Looking Forward: A New Chapter for Six Flags Six Flags to Sell Off 7 Beloved Amusement Parks Around the Country amid Financial Woes EPR Properties - Wikipedia EPR Properties Announces Definitive Agreements to Acquire Portfolio of Seven Regional Parks Enchanted Parks acquires multiple Six Flags properties Websites: Enchanted Parks IAM (Innovative Attraction Management) EPR Properties Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 118 - "Omaha's Biggest" February 28th, 2026 Bob, Greg and especially Ryan the Ride Mechanic are in rare form tonight as the rabbit trails hit some pretty funny moments -- especially starting the show off. Plenty of news gets talked about to keep you up to date. You Care What We Think: Biggest Cock In Omaha  United Parks & Resorts Inc. Reports Fourth Quarter and Fiscal 2025 Results Stardust Racers Refurbishment Extended Again at Epic Universe Twin Brothers Allegedly Injured on New Harry Potter Ride at Universal Orlando After It 'Thrusted Erratically' Mid-Ride A Theme Park with Spongebob AND Jurassic World? Universal Kids Resort Deep Dive Doswell Virginia Industrial & Infrastructure Opportunity Six Flags says 'We want you back' | New CEO's plans for future  Does Dolly Parton have competition? Nate Bargatze's Nashville theme park plans Kennywood restores iconic trash can for upcoming season  Super Bowl LX players lose thousands to California's 'jock tax' on athlete income  Disney World's Villains Land Is Pivoting Away From Scaring Kids Disneyland abandoned plans for Disney Villains land, report says  A Beloved Amusement Park Nearly Closed for Good 6 Years Ago. Now It's Preparing for Its 100th Birthday  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 117 - "Flares and Orange Vests" February 21st, 2026 Bob and Ryan the Ride Mechanic hold down the fort since Greg is a little under the weather this week but there is plenty to talk about starting off with Six Flags and ending with Geauga Lake. Six Flags 2025 Results Six Flags (FUN) Q4 2025 Earnings Call Transcript Beloved Roller Coaster Is Permanently Shutting Down After 33 Years Six Flags begins building new 'record-breaking' roller coaster on Wednesday https://opencoaster.net/@ElToroRyan/116093195168193545     Kentucky Kingdom gives sneak peak at its 1st new roller coaster since 2019  Allegiant Announces "Flight #925: Destination Dollywood" for Travelers Headed to the Great Smoky Mountains this November  Disney Files NEW Permit for Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets  New Jersey man accused of boosting almost $200K of metal from Ferris wheel renovation site Aurora begins development of new park at former Geauga Lake site  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 116 - "Dragon Fire" February 14th, 2026 Bob, Greg and Ryan the Ride Mechanic talk about the scraps of news this week amongst rabbit trails that are sure to entertain. Social media age verification is full of risks and unclear rewards  Alton Towers U-turns on plan to restrict disability pass for people with ADHD and autism  Beloved Theme Park Files for Bankruptcy 4 Years After Fatal Accident That Killed 6-Year-Old Girl  Elon Musk's Tunnel Company Chosen to Develop Transit System to Connect Universal Orlando Theme Parks Experts say Elon Musk's tunnel empire has a 99% chance of ending in serious trouble – Morning Overview  Crossing Norway's fjords is going to get easier with world's first submerged floating tunnel Brendan Fraser is back for a new 'Mummy' movie — should Universal update coaster? Locals breathe fire as dragon from iconic Playland coaster chucked in dumpster: 'Should be in a museum' Six Flags Great Adventure reveals return of 'Wild' ride and guest experience upgrades for the upcoming season Mr. Freeze ride at Six Flags Over Texas is about to get even cooler  Levchuk: Amusement park not returning  Office Building Getting Demolished to Make Way for New Disneyland Resort Parking Structure  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 115 - "The Search for More Gold" February 7th, 2026 Bob, Greg and Ryan the Ride Mechanic are back to finding rabbit trails in an episode that finally has some bigger news stories and a lot of real time surprises. New Gold Pass Benefit: Visit Regional Six Flags Parks for Free Six Flags changes filming policy for roller coaster POVs Kings Island announces return of classic ride Polyp Octopus Monsters Alton Towers to remove disability pass for people with ADHD and anxiety  Disney names Josh D'Amaro as new chief executive Disney warns of hit from flagging foreign visits Starbucks scraps $250,000 cap on boss's use of company jet  You can say 'I do' at Disney's Haunted Mansion starting this summer   Universal Orlando Launches New Advertising Campaign Ahead of Super Bowl LX  Here's Why Companies Can't Say 'Super Bowl' in Their Super Bowl Ads  'Hell of a day:' Texts reveal state inspectors' response to Universal roller coaster death Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift Opens This Summer Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 114 - "Blizzard Beach IRL" January 31st, 2026 Bob, Greg and Ryan the Ride Mechanic have another slower news week but we get to hear about the Netherlands from Ryan as well as everything freezing over. Rare Extreme Cold Watch Issued for Walt Disney World: Wind Chills Could Drop to 7F Degrees Canada gives conditional approval for Marineland to export remaining belugas to the US Dreamland to put historic Scenic Railway into 'retirement' Six Flags Great Adventure - 450 ft. tall Crane for Roller Coaster Construction POV Antique Autos at Indiana Beach  Swedish amusement park fined over fatal roller coaster derailment Who can pronounce death in FL  Arnolds park receives $100K investment Legend - Arnolds Park (Image 22)  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 113 - "Snow Drift" January 24th, 2026 Bob, Greg and Caleb take a break from preparing for the snow and ice this weekend to talk about Universal, Mattel, Bluey, and a collection of other news stories in the industry. Universal Orlando Resort Reveals Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift – Opening in Florida In 2027  Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift (Orlando) construction timelapse Cause of Death Revealed for Grandma Who Lost Consciousness After Riding Revenge of the Mummy Roller Coaster It's so cold in Florida that even the rollercoasters are getting stalled on the tracks Disney Adventure Testing New Roller Coaster On The High Seas Alton Towers names and teases new 'Bluey' roller coaster Gotta Catch Em All: Universal's Latest Theme Park IP Deal Will Bring Pokémon to Life New Experiences in Hershey Throughout 2026 Mattel's First Indoor Water Park Will Be Located 10 Minutes from Disney World, Newly Filed Plans Reveal Marineland requests U.S. permits for beluga and dolphin transfers Rapid City voters say "No!" to Libertyland theme park, soundly reject Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for it  Building Outside the Lines (TV Series 2023– )  1980s-inspired, high-flying cirque amusement park adventure to come to the Center for the Arts  (Tour dates and locations) Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 112 - "Enchanted Bar Crawl" January 17th, 2026 Bob, Greg and Steph talk about an assortment of news including an infamous story from back when Steph was a regular on the show. We're sure you'll not only find this episode interesting but highly entertaining. Robin Williams Standup - Golf  (full version)  More shocking Six Flags park changes could be on the way, trademark docs reveal Six Flags 'will last and endure' in Saudi Arabia, partner executive says Six Flags Guest Sues Park After Allegedly Falling from 'Superman' Coaster Where Guests Ride Face Down, Head First IB Parks & Entertainment to operate Lake Winnepesaukah Amusement Park beginning with the 2026 Season Verbolten Forbidden Turn: Extensive Thematic Overhaul  Has visiting America's premier theme parks now become a luxury vacation experience? Knoebels ride is getting an upgrade for this season Disney performer who stopped boulder from hitting audience says he's no hero Disney World 'wedgie' lawsuit that went viral ends in court Disney adult sparks outrage with her 'trashy' bar crawl through kid-friendly theme park Vekoma Rides Parts & Services B.V. and Drone Over The Top LLC announce cooperation to advance safety-focused drone inspections for Theme Parks Kings Dominion Rope Inspections  Adorable Kangaroo Sneaks Its Ways Into a Lazy River at Australian Theme Park Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 111 - "Fight or Flight" January 10th, 2026 Bob, Greg and Ryan the Ride Mechanic take a quick visit to a few stories circulating in a short but fun episode. More weather … really? Six Flags Announces Decision Regarding Six Flags Over Texas Partnership Call Option Six Flags Over Texas Teases Improvements to Mr. Freeze & Runaway Mine Train  Six Flags issues $1 billion junk bonds to refinance debt  Disneyland Guest Gets Four Stitches After Getting Attacked by Line Cutter Lawsuit against SeaWorld tossed: Park not liable for woman's 'hit by duck' claims  Six Flags dominates 10Best Awards with Five of 10 Attractions 10 best new theme park attractions across the country Dollywood Visitors Are NOT Happy About The Theme Park's New QR Code Drink System: "No Way My Dolly Approved This"  Roller Coaster Museum announces 2026 events calendar Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 110 - "Disney Dropped the Ball" January 3rd, 2026 Bob, Greg and Ryan the Ride Mechanic talk about new years and a smaller selection of stories for the first episode of 2026. Six Flags Qiddiya City is Now Officially Open  POV: Falcon's Flight Roller Coaster from Grand Opening of Six Flags Qiddya City Falcon's Flight - On ride POV - Six Flags Qiddiya City  Monsters, Inc. Ride Update! Disney World's MASSIVE New Coaster Takes a Huge Step Forward Runaway Indiana Jones boulder smashes into Disney World staffer Sony to Acquire Control of Peanuts in $457 Million Deal Universal United Kingdom Resort – Plans Approved by UK Government, Construction Timeline, and Rumors – Orlando ParkStop  Max The Dog Casting Process Revealed For Grinchmas at Universal Orlando Resort - WDW News Today  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 109 - "An Incandescent Christmas" December 20th, 2025 Greg, Bob and Ryan the Ride Mechanic close out the year with some final thoughts about Stardust Racers, Six Flags' lack of Christmas spirit, AI taking over, and a list of other stories for the last episode of 2025. Everyone at Side Friction wishes you and your families a great holiday season and a happy new year! Kevin Rodriguez Zavala's family, Universal reach agreement in Epic Universe Stardust Racers death: Attorneys Medical examiner releases autopsy report in Epic Universe roller coaster death Two riders stuck on COTA roller coaster drop for 'nearly an hour'  Palindrome Begins Testing at COTALAND | Gerstlauer Shuttle Coaster 'It's part of our history,' Lakemont Park sued by Blair County over century old roller coaster The Walt Disney Company and OpenAI reach landmark agreement to bring beloved characters from across Disney's brands to Sora Carowinds WinterFest 2025 | A budget-cut cry for help from Six Flags Six Flags Magic Mountain pushes back new coaster to 2027 United Parks & Resorts Inc. (PRKS) Down More Than 19% Since Q3, Here's Why DOJ launches investigation into SeaWorld Orlando, Aquatica and Busch Gardens LEGO contest sparks creativity in young builders with Legoland Galacticoaster ride opportunity Wait Until You See This Christmas Roller Coaster in Louisville Texas Tornado - Wonderland Amusement Park (Amarillo, Texas, United States)  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 108 - "McBroken" December 13th, 2025 Bob, Greg and Ryan the Ride Mechanic dive into the Stardust Racers incident again now that more information has been released as well as talk about Six Flags changes and a sampling of various other stories -- and rabbit trails. What to know about changes to Disney parks' disability policies Six Flags & former Cedar Fair parks make next big changes to unify portfolio No criminality found in Epic Universe roller coaster death: Sheriff's office Death report reveals disturbing aftermath after rider killed on Stardust Racers at Epic Universe  Universal Altered Report on Stardust Racers Death to Remove Pre-Existing Conditions Reference Kevin Rodriguez Zavala: Death report explains what happened on Stardust Racers ride Wild Waves Theme Park in Federal Way announces closure Enchanted Forest (Turner, Oregon, United States)  Six Flags Magic Mountain files plans to demolish 2 beloved rides Six Flags Magic Mountain confirms fate of 2 popular kids rides Legoland resorts set opening date for new Galacticoaster Dracula Land theme park to be developed in Romania CGA will reduce operating season Waldameer names new water rides for 2026  THE GRAVITY GROUP MERCHANDISE STORE  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 107 - "Brakefast Buffet" December 6th, 2025 Bob, Greg and Ryan the Ride Mechanic have an entire buffet of news stories from all over the place to visit on this episode. Lots of big news happening and about the only thing that's certain is that, well, nothing is certain. Six Flags Appoints John Reilly President and Chief Executive Officer Six Flags Announces New Park Will Open by the End of the Year, 2 Weeks After Shutting Down Another Portland's Oaks Amusement Park Gets Green Light for Controversial New Ride Despite Bird Advocates' Appeal  Is Maverick's Heartline Roll Coming Back?? Xcelerator Testing Over 100mph at Knott's Berry Farm  Supports ON SITE for New Coaster at Six Flags Great Adventure! National Roller Coaster Museum and Archives Names Pete Owens New Chairman  (2017) National Roller Coaster Museum to expand with Mark Moore Memorial Wing  IAAPA: New Legoland coaster features customization, Space Creature International Drive roller coaster planned from operator of canceled Skyplex 'Polercoaster' Disney World Quietly Shuts Down Part of Iconic Ride Without Notice and Fans Are Heartbroken SFGrAd Closes on it's last day  Hersheypark Winter Weather Promise Ocean City Council set to vote on Wonderland Pier property again Busch Gardens Williamsburg reveals 2026 roller coaster, Verbolten: Forbidden Turn  'Random aerial bird strike:' SeaWorld Orlando responds to coaster rider's 'duck' lawsuit Lagoon changes toddler policy for 2026 season — those under 24 months ride free  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 106 - "It's Gonna be the Greatest..." November 22nd, 2025 Ryan the Ride Mechanic, Greg and Bob have another incredibly fun filled conversation consisting of various different topics including all the news.... well, ride vehicles, from IAAPA, some announcements, theories, and, well.... isms. Wonderland Amusement Park, Amarillo icon since 1951, is officially up for sale Mack Rides CEO addresses fatal incident on roller coaster at Universal Epic Universe State ride inspectors wrote no reports after Universal roller coaster death, agency indicates SeaWorld class action alleges theme park chain uses 'bait-and-switch' tactics IAAPA Expo 2025: All the ride vehicles revealed for new theme park attractions Dolly Parton offers health update after missing IAAPA induction ceremony  Zamperla: just being silly Intamin X ETF Ride Systems, Multi Dimension Mover Nate Bargatze Reviewing Sites for Nateland Amusement Park, Partners With Storyland Studios Already ready for summer fun: Kennywood, Sandcastle, Idlewild announce 2026 opening dates Iconic waterfront amusement park in Myrtle Beach to open new roller coaster Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 105 - "SBNO" November 15th, 2025 Greg, Ryan the Ride Mechanic and Bob decide that this is an anything goes week as they all vent about dumb chains and closed museums. In an effort to keep some sanity, however, they scoured the web to find some news stories that aren't about parks being closed or falling flags. Herschend To Acquire Silverwood Cedar Point shares incredible videos of northern lights in Ohio illuminating night sky above park's roller coasters  Six Flags says closing or selling more parks is 'priority'  Six Flags Eyes More 'Underperforming' Parks for Closure as Revenue Falls Short of Expectations  Six Flags warns it could close more parks as financial woes mount  Six Flags facing federal lawsuit as pension fund accuses company of hiding years of neglect  Securities Fraud Investigation Into Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (FUN) Announced JANA PARTNERS PROVIDES UPDATE ON SIX FLAGS INVESTOR GROUP Exclusive: Future of old Six Flags site might resemble National Harbor, Md. leaders say  Netflix is opening its first amusement park – and it's completely free  Oasis Amusement Park On Lake Of The Ozarks Will Be Open By Fall 2026, Developer Says Last two boater bros busted for trashing historic Playland amusement park in boneheaded stunt Russian AI Robot Faceplants  Pittsburgh-area man recreates Kennywood on Rollercoaster Tycoon video game  Waldameer's Wacky Shack turns 55 Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 104 - "End of America" November 8th, 2025 Greg, Ryan the Ride Mechanic and Bob discuss a lot of dumb news including Bob talking about the last day of Six Flags America.   Fire-Rescue Superheroes Scale Inova Loudoun Hospital to Deliver Halloween Treats  Six Flags of America closes in Bowie  Superman breaks down at SFA Dumb guy climbs Batwing on the last day of Six Flags America YouTube Shoutouts: ROBB ZIPP AT SIX FLAGS AMERICA'S LAST DAY 11-2-2025  Savage Mister  Drens Adventure  Couple helps secure rider after seatbelt fails on Worlds of Fun's Mamba roller coaster Worlds of Fun visitors say they had to hold down young girls after alleged seat belt malfunction on roller coaster 2 girls fall from Ferris wheel at Louisiana harvest festival: Sheriff Intoxicated passenger falls out of amusement ride in Port Hardy   Cedar Point cased in terrorist attack plot foiled by FBI. What to know  Feds: Suspects in Ferndale terror case also cased Cedar Point; one is tied to video game lawsuit  New Report Shows Just How Bad Things Are for This Florida Theme Park Giant | Disney Dining  Stupid lawsuit of the week: NJ mother's lawsuit over kid who called her 'Karen' at amusement park dismissed by appeals court Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 103 - "Micro Capacity" November 1st, 2025 Greg, Ryan the Ride Mechanic and Bob explore the world of toy cars and corvids.... and some coaster and park news too. Woman sues SeaWorld after duck allegedly flies into her face while riding roller coaster Universal 'holding back' on operating Epic Universe at full capacity Kentucky Kingdom building new suspension roller coaster Roller-coaster track, likely for Mindbender replacement, spotted in Edmonton-area industrial park Renegade 'super fan' takes his 30,000th ride on the Valleyfair roller coaster Circuit of the Americas to offer amusement at top speed  Worlds of Fun roller coaster temporarily shut down due to safety violation Knoebels bald eagle passes away  Waldameer winds down after successful summer, announces Paratrooper comeback  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 102 - "Kelce and the Moose" October 25th, 2025 Greg and Bob take on this week's news without Ryan who's away for the week.  Another fun variety of stories and only a small bit about that big chain with a half dozen flags and lots of problems. Travis Kelce joins activist investor Jana Partners in push to revive Six Flags Travis Kelce Teases Possible 'Kelce Roller Coaster'  Low Flying Moose RMC will unveil a new coaster  RetroEscapes nostalgia theme park planned for Las Vegas RetroEscapes | Las Vegas retro destination | Las Vegas, NV, USA Inside Disney Imagineering's Sonic Labs Universal Orlando 2026 park-to-park tickets to include Epic Universe  Lagoon to retire Jet Star 2 roller coaster after 49 years Virginia man rides every roller coaster in the US—all 1,069 of them  Our biggest competition is screens at home, says theme park boss  Groundbreaking held for Aurora Park at Geauga Lake, site of former SeaWorld Ohio  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH  

Side Friction - Episode 101 - "Small Parks, a Sweatshirt and some Chickens" October 18th, 2025 Greg, Ryan the Ride Mechanic and Bob have an extremely wide variety of smaller stories this week along with some great rabbit trails.  This episode is sure to entertain. Six Flags Announces Corporate Governance Changes Various Six Flags parks now have free haunts  Barracuda Strike suspended roller coaster opening in 2026 Universal Kids Resort is coming to Frisco, Texas in 2026 Closed Universal Studios rollercoaster catches fire in Florida Lagoon unveils plans for new Screamin' Swing thrill ride Sweatshirt causes ride stoppage at Hersheypark's 'Wild Mouse' Mattel Adventure Park may not open in Bonner Springs until 2031 Westchester police searching for suspects who stole 200 stuffed animals, vandalized Playland Park Rollercoaster POV: New ride at COTALAND in Austin  Wilde Hilde - Schwaben Park Wilde Hilde - Theme Park Music  Arnolds Park Amusement Park sees record attendance A tour of Knoebels Amusement Resort from a dog's POV  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 100 - "Do a Line, Get In Line" October 11th, 2025 We've reached 100 episodes! Thank you so much to everyone who listens weekly and gives this little hobby of ours purpose. To celebrate this milestone we have brought together both legacy crews to join in on the conversation. In addition to our current crew of Bob, Greg, and Ryan the Ride Mechanic we also have Steph joining us who co-founded Side Friction as well as Bob's counterparts from Coaster Talk Podcast, James and Timmy. We hope you enjoy this incredibly fun show.  Here's to another hundred! Note: There are multiple references made to Coaster Talk Podcast episode 200. If you'd like to listen to that you can find it at https://coastertalkpodcast.com/episode-200-a-walk-down-memory-lane  Universal to reopen Stardust Racers ride 2 weeks after man's death After Stardust Racers roller coaster rider dies, his family speaks out Attorney: Universal Stardust Racers coaster had history of complaints before Zavala died Second inversion of the Canobie Corkscrew rebuilt at the National Roller Coaster Museum in Texas Disney World, Disneyland Hike Ticket Prices  Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets: Opening Summer 2026! Canada blocks theme park from sending whales to China Canada's Marineland theme park says it will have to euthanize 30 beluga whales without emergency funding  18-year-old charged after climbing Busch Gardens roller coaster Maurer Rides installs interactive indoor coaster at new Hi Space theme park in China Maurer to present new Spike Racer innovations at IAAPA Expo Europe 2025  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 99 - "It's Not Fair" October 4th, 2025 Bob, Ryan the Ride Mechanic and Greg close out the last of the double digit episodes with more Six Flags turmoil, fair rides going wrong, and a new place to stay but if that wasn't enough you'll also get to hear Bob's thoughts on Top Thrill 2 and Siren's Curse. Deutsche Bank Issues Grim Warning for AI Industry  Microsoft launches 'vibe working' in Excel and Word  Kings Dominion - Show Me the Weather Ashland, VA Weather Sept 27 Land & Buildings Issues Letter Spooktacular – Watch the trailer for the documentary about America's first horror theme park Carnival ride malfunctions during school 'Family Fun Day' event in Pico-Union area Accidente de juego mecánico en la Feria de San Miguel Arcángel y la Alfarería en Guanajuato deja cinco heridos Video of accident  Dutch Wonderland Inn Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 98 - "Not the Fountain!" September 27th, 2025 Greg is back with Bob and Ryan the Ride Mechanic to talk about a whole new assortment of things and this week it's back to being mostly about coasters with the normal amount of rabbit trails. The news starts off grim but gets more positive as the show goes on. Universal Orlando Resort president says Stardust Racers ride was functioning properly State inspectors align with Universal's findings that roller coaster was working right when man died Woman sues Universal Orlando over injuries from same roller coaster in which man died after ride Glenwood Caven's Statement on the Jury Verdict Kennywood confirms employee killed after being hit by vehicle in Near Park Universal Orlando News: Lost Continent Demolition Permits and Footers for Rockit Replacement TORMENTA RAMPING RUN - Six Flags Over Texas Giga Dive Coaster New Six Flags Over Texas rollercoaster will be tallest, fastest, longest and first-ever giga dive Report: Austin theme park won't be arriving as soon as planned California theme park adds first new thrill ride in 20 years Dollywood owners closing Gwinnett County amusement park after 20 years Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com NXR2BBLGADRGMFVH

Side Friction - Episode 97 - "The Ride is Out There" September 20th, 2025 Bob and Ryan the Ride Mechanic have Airtime Myke on the show this week to talk about... well.... A LOT.  This is the longest episode to date but genuinely probably one of the most interesting.  As for rabbit trails, well, that's basically the whole last hour but the whole show is lots of fun. Siren's Curse 2025 Uptime Stats  Cause of death revealed for Universal Epic Universe guest found unresponsive after ride 'Help! Help!' Cause of death revealed for guest who rode Stardust Racers at Epic Universe   What does the future of Cedar Point look like following merger with Six Flags? Six Flags Reports Strong Attendance Growth and Season Pass Unit Sales Through Labor Day Weekend  Six Flags' Financial Woes: Debt, Closures, and Uncertainty  Six Flags Over Texas closes popular boat ride 'The Conquistador'  Worlds of Fun evacuated first night of Halloween Haunt for unsubstantiated gunshots Partnership Mansion - Wikiwand  NightFlight Expedition  Intamin Flume Ride - 2025 New Elements Animations  Mission Bermudes On-Ride POV - A Fun Futuroscope Adventure! Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com

Side Friction - Episode 96 - "Bluer" September 13th, 2025 Bob and Ryan the Ride Mechanic are joined by CoasterBro (aka Caleb) of Coaster Cuzzies this week while Greg spends time with his family.  The 2025 Golden Ticket Awards honor 27 winners, presented live from Carowinds Judge sides with resident in Conneaut Lake Park dispute  Fate of Columbia County man's backyard roller coaster uncertain after losing appeal LA buys Griffith Park Carousel Nine Inch Nails To Soundtrack Disney Roller Coaster  Maurer to present new Spike Racer innovations at IAAPA Expo Europe 2025  Nate Bargatze Is Hoping to Build 'Nateland' Theme Parks  Riders evacuated from Hersheypark rollercoaster  Peanuts license at Six Flags parks extended through 2030 Silver Dollar City, O'Reilly Auto Parts partner for theme park transit department Six Flags America's Boo Fest  Batwing closed permanently Oaks Park is auctioning off its original roller coaster tub  Zoom Coaster - Oaks Amusement Park (Portland, Oregon, United States)  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com

Side Friction - Episode 95 - "Show Me the Weather" September 6th, 2025 Another week means another episode of Greg, Bob, and Ryan the Ride Mechanic talking about the dumpster fire that just consumes theme park news, how Disney has it's own problems, and a bunch of other stuff. Who is shocked by this one? Six flags extends their MVP Sale What's next for Six Flags? Cedar Point parent faces park sell-off, possible bankruptcy Six Flags bankruptcy fears mount as brand eyes sale after abruptly shuttering two parks and suffering $500 million blow  Disney theme parks quietly abandon middle-class travelers  Man speaks out after rescuing boy walking on Hersheypark monorail Austin's first tilt roller coaster nears finish line High Stakes, High Speed: What You Need To Know About F1's Return to Vegas  Trial begins in lawsuit against Colorado theme park after 6-year-old's fall to her death  Busch Gardens closing Stanley Falls Flume after 52 years Kennywood cancels 21-plus nights due to fights, reiterates "Zero-Tolerance" policy The Legacy of Schwarzkopf  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com

Side Friction - Episode 94 - "Electric Mayhem" August 30th, 2025 Greg, Bob, and Ryan the Ride Mechanic go a lot lighter on Six Flags (well, relatively) this week with one of the more varied assortment of news stories with some mile rabbit trails thrown in as a bonus. Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets: What to Expect Kings Island announces revival of beloved ride with modern upgrades The Legacy of Schwarzkopf Knott's Berry Farm Locks Up Your Wallet Boy, 10, hospitalized after electric shock on bumper car at Israeli amusement park Flying Turns: Chicago's Riverview Park ride is reborn at Knoebels Amusement Resort Appetronix robot arm might make your food in a theme park soon X2 coaster gets a little TLC at Six Flags Magic Mountain Downed trees cut power to Knoebels  Disneyland ends early access privilege and introduces Lightning Lane Waldameer's Original Endless River Closing; New Water Rides Coming in 2026 - Erie News Now  Multiple women banned from Kennywood Park after fight breaks out on adults-only night  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com

Side Friction - Episode 93 - "Unhitched" August 23rd, 2025 Greg, Bob, and Ryan the Ride Mechanic (as well as the entire community) can't get away from Six Flags so join them for another dive into the mess that circles the chain.  Even if Six Flags isn't your thing this episodes doesn't forget about you. Dragon wagon loses part on the track   Kings Island Teaser  Six Flags to Cut 2026 Capital Spending on New Rides in the US at Cedar Point, Kings Island, and Other Parks Amid Attendance Decline  Big changes coming this year to Cedar Point's Halloweekends: What to know before you go  Six Flags is under investigation for fraud as it tries to reel in more visitors Six Flags Entertainment Corporation Lawsuit  Iconic roller coaster opens for the first time this season Lagoon's legacy: 3 generations of family business Lagoon's 2026 Attraction? Kennywood hosting two 21-plus nights  British man rides 55 different roller coasters in one week  Bubba from 100.7 Star breaks record on Kennywood's Steel Curtain roller coaster  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com

Side Friction - Episode 92 - "Closed for Litigation" August 16th, 2025 Yes, more Six Flags talk from Greg, Bob, and Ryan the Ride Mechanic but entertaining and a shorter duration this week. If you are tired of Six Flags, don't worry, plenty of other stuff besides Six Flags gets addressed as well. Carowinds Guests Blindsided as Entire Park Suddenly Closes—Here's What We Know JOANN Fabrics, Party City, Toys R Us, Red Lobster — private equity drove all of them to the ground  Did sirens curse Cedar Point? Power Tower breaks, roller coasters shut down, evacuated After Cedar Point coaster breakdowns, Ohio legislator pushes for change. See the proposal  Final days of beloved TX amusement park brings a 'roller coaster of emotions' The Construction of Six Flags Great Adventure's New Roller Coaster Is Interesting Thirteen children hurt in pleasure park ride accident and police issue update Wacky worm gets hooked Coney Beach Pleasure Park in Porthcawl  Tropical Americas News Update: Construction, Permits, and Rumors for Animal Kingdom Shaquille O'Neal roller coaster overlay coming to Hersheypark Lagoon test roller coaster collides with HVAC technician allegedly causing 'permanent disfigurement,' park denies claims Rip Ride Rockit rollercoaster will permanently close next week - WFTV  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com

Side Friction - Episode 91 - "Six Flags Fatigue" August 9th, 2025 A few little things happened at Six Flags this week so Greg, Bob, and Ryan the Ride Mechanic dive in with just a small helping of the complete wasteland that the chain has seemingly become almost overnight. If you stick through all the bad news (presented in a hopefully entertaining way) you'll get to hear all about Greg's trip to Japan. Six Flags Mexico Unveils Speedway Stunt Coaster for 2026 - Coaster101 Six Flags out Six Flagged themselves Six Flags calls off Fright Fest during Bowie park's final season No Christmas spirit: Six Flags Over Georgia cancels Holiday in the Park Six Flags Great Adventure cancels Holiday in the Park and delays Kingda Ka coaster replacement Six Flags CEO Richard Zimmerman stepping down Six Flags Entertainment Corporation Reports 2025 Second Quarter Results Shareholders Elect Four Independent Directors to the Six Flags Board Police release review after child drowns at Hersheypark  '360 Degree' amusement park ride breaks in half in Saudi Arabia Universal Orlando and WWE team up for Halloween Horror Nights Haunt based on the Wyatt Sicks Lake Compounce set to retire Holiday Lights event after 2025 season Herschend sells three parks to bowling alley company following Palace acquisition ええじゃないかってどんなアトラクション?  Bye-bye Snoopy? 

Side Friction - Episode 90 - "Six Flags 2: The Search for More Money" July 26th, 2025 Bob and Ryan the Ride Mechanic take control of the show since Greg decided coasters in Japan were more important (ok, we would too).  Various news stories get discussed with a couple bombshells, especially one you wouldn't expect Bob to say. Roller Coaster Glitches For Fourth Time in Just Weeks Six Flags America up for sale in August Too expensive to ride: Readers say Kings Island is no longer for the middle class  Kings Dominion announces unprecedented benefit with 2026 Season Pass  Possible measles exposure reported at Albuquerque amusement park Blackpool Pleasure Beach Express Derails  Get Ready To Catch 'Em All At PokéPark Kanto, Opening Soon At Japan's Yomiuriland I Transported Kingda Ka. Here's Everything You Need to Know  B&M's are like babies: they always have a rattle!  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com

Side Friction - Episode 89 - "Where Are We?" July 19th, 2025 Join Greg, Bob, and Ryan the Ride Mechanic as they visit the news and somehow end up wandering through the woods.  If you are a fan of episodes that feature rabbit trails you'll love this stream of consciousness. Kennywood inspects Steel Curtain after guest hit by flying foam pad  Maurer Rides brings world-first interactive indoor roller coaster to HI SPACE  FULL TOUR of the National Roller Coaster Museum!  ZDT's Amusement Park Closes August 17th LMPD says 2 reports of shootings at Expo Center were false Blast off! Legoland Florida announces details for new indoor roller coaster ParkFans reports upcharges coming for Six Flag's Haunt Major changes coming to Cedar Point causeway Ride Roller Coasters At Home With A Seated Motion Simulator & Haptics Play Disney Coaster (DOS Game)   Fire Runner Debuts 7/18/2025  West Virginia's First Mountain Coaster Now Open in Mercer County  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com

Side Friction - Episode 88 - "Blades of Fury" July 12th, 2025 Join Greg, Bob, and Ryan the Ride Mechanic as they talk about a collection of news stories that happened over the last couple of weeks.  Wind turbine blade gets stuck between 2 Pennsylvania homes  Canada's Wonderland set to debut AlpenFury this weekend Siren's Curse, new ride at Cedar Point, gets stuck again Top Thrill 2 Average Downtime   Grizzly Escape  Kingda Ka train put to rest in Schrödinger's warehouse Rocky Mountain Construction Powered "Coaster" Popular Dollywood roller coaster Blazing Fury rides again on 4th of July: See what's new  Panel: Standard Amusements can't terminate contract with Westchester County to manage Playland Amusement Park Jenkins Calls Playland Ruling 'Significant Victory For The People Of Westchester' An iconic theme park chain announced another closure  Legacy of Schwarzkopf release status  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com

Side Friction - Episode 87 - "I Know What You Did" July 5th, 2025 Join Greg, Bob, Ryan the Ride Mechanic and Pam in a backwards episode where the news is merely an intro to stories from park visits and events that we all had experienced in our time off last week. Guest struck by cellphone on Kennywood's Phantom's Revenge roller coaster Six Flags New England's "Quantum Accelerator" debut pushed to 2026  Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com

Side Friction - Episode 86 - "Dark Money" June 21st, 2025 Join Greg, Bob, and Ryan the Ride Mechanic as they talk about the news with rabbit trails and even a Bob rant on the side. Dollywood is quietly building its 'largest new attraction' ever. Kennywood's new sister park Dollywood shares vision after acquisition Every Time Someone Buys A Ticket To A Universal Theme Park, Steven Spielberg Makes $2.38 (In Perpetuity) Orlando's US ThrillRides wins $3.5M lawsuit against major ride manufacturer Intamin Orlando's US ThrillRides sues major ride company Intamin over Dubai project Niagara Falls amusement park Marineland begins selling its rides Opening of Six Flags New England's "Quantum Accelerator" coaster delayed Survey Reveals More Attraction Concepts – BGWFans  Cincinnati child goes viral after bringing 'pet' cicada on Kings Island Ride Futuroscope announces details on semi-dark ride Mission Bermudes – DRdb  Mission Bermudes (YouTube) MACK Rides presents: The Rocking Boat Mastodon: https://worldkey.io/@sidefriction Web: https://sidefriction.com