For best friends Leilani Shattuck and Skye Potter, the inspiration to start an indoor and outdoor playland in the Black Hills was born out of a simple observation. “We knew that Rapid City needed a place for families to let their kids run. So we started chatting,” Leilani said. ”Then, God started opening doors.”
Launching a business in 2020 required immense resilience, but this duo faced the challenges head-on. They credit their ultimate success to divine guidance and the unwavering support of their loved ones. “We don’t make any decisions without Him in it,” Leilani said. “And it helps that our husbands and kids are each others’
best friends — it’s just great.”
At the heart of Run Wild is a philosophy that rejects the overstimulation of today. Skye explained that they designed a space where parents can relax while children engage in self-directed play. “We wanted to provide a place that was an open forum for kids to be able to use their imaginations,” she said. “We worked a long time to provide an atmosphere where they could explore instead of just being occupied with technology. It’s fun to hear them say, ‘Oh, you’re the baby and I’m the dad,’ or ‘Let’s go to the spaceship.’”
Beyond its incredible and meticulously cleaned indoor and outdoor play spaces, Run Wild had grown into a true community hub for the region. With a coffee bar serving locally roasted Dark Canyon Coffee alongside a menu of snacks and meals, families have found a place to gather for Bible studies, host stress-free birthday parties and connect with friends.
But for Skye and Leilani, fostering community isn’t just about the families who visit; it’s about the team they’ve built, too. The founders intentionally hire local high schoolers, acting as “work moms” to mentor the next generation. By providing a safe, nurturing first job for these teens, they ensure the facility breathes life into the community from the inside out — creating an environment where everyone, from the staff to the smallest guest, can find joy.
As Skye put it, “We’ve been successful and blessed, but the
best part for me will always be the sound of giggles.”
Pictured, left to right: Leilani Shattuck and Skye Potter
7089 Infinity Drive
Summerset, SD 57718
playrunwild.com
