Evan Barnett is Park President & General Manager of Typhoon Texas, with locations in Houston and Austin, TX. In this interview, Evan shares how he and his team spend more time talking about culture and guest experience than they do on revenue and per cap, because the foundation of the culture must be in place first in order to achieve success in the business. Evan talks about the importance of hiring the right people and putting them in the right positions so that the culture can thrive. When Typhoon Texas took over the Austin park, Evan shares how the park engaged the local community to learn what they wanted and expected from the park, and the end result turned into a loyal following of superfans. Evan talks about how an experience that he had with his family on a cruise a few years ago inspired him to recognize opportunities to make a guest’s experience better, even during times when you don’t have to. Lastly, Evan says that leaders must have empathy for their employees so that employees will have empathy for their guests.
