Memory Makers Podcast

On this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ sits down with Armando Lanuti, Owner and President of Creative Works, for a deep dive into the changing landscape of virtual and mixed reality. While VR was once viewed as a high-tech novelty, it has matured into a sophisticated anchor for modern family entertainment centers. Armando discusses how the industry has shifted from consumer-grade experiments to robust, commercial-grade attractions that deliver a consistent return on investment.

"How do I make this an attraction that's going to last you the five years that you want or more for your investment? Our goal is to make sure the product has the legs for you to get that amortization."

Armando Lanuti

For operators looking to invest in mixed and virtual reality attractions, Armando provides essential insights on choosing the right hardware, navigating ownership models, and ensuring that new technology complements your overall guest experience rather than complicating it.

On this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ sits down with Jerry Merola, Managing Partner at Amusement Entertainment Management, LLC, where we discuss how to navigate FEC financing.

Jerry shares his deep expertise on how the financing landscape has shifted post-2020 and why "pre-approval" is a myth in the commercial world. From the necessity of independent feasibility studies to the art of the 10-minute executive summary, this conversation is a masterclass for any entrepreneur looking to turn their entertainment dream into a sustainable reality.

"Banks are making an investment not just in a future business model, but they’re making an investment in the individual or individuals that stand behind it. They’re trying to understand the scope and the depth of the investigation... to really understand the viability and sustainability of the business."

— Jerry Merola

Don't let your project stall at the bank door. Listen now for the blueprint to FEC success!

On this special edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ concludes our special 4-part series featuring the finalists for the American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA) FEC of the Year award!

We finish our series with the one and only, Bucky Mabe of Downtown Flavortown (FACE Amusement) in Pigeon Forge, TN. Bucky shares how their "FACE" core values (Faith, Attitude, Consistency, and Excellence) serve as the 'north star' for a massive seasonal operation, and why they prioritize 'Plus One' moments to turn a standard outing into a lifelong memory. From duckpin bowling and arcade high scores to Guy Fieri’s iconic menu, learn how this 43,000-square-foot powerhouse became the most visited entertainment venue in Tennessee.

"When you launch a new concept, you don't really know how the guest is going to treat it. We think we know… but you don't really know until they start showing up. In this concept, people are coming for the food and staying for the fun, as opposed to just coming for the fun and maybe eating."

-Bucky Mabe

Bucky describes the secret sauce that leads with a world-class culinary brand to create a destination that appeals to an entirely new demographic.

On this special episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ continues our special 4-part series featuring the finalists for the American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA) FEC of the Year award!

We are next joined by Jenny Emley, one of the visionaries behind High 5 Exchange, who shares the heart behind their success, "Second Mile Service." This principle, inspired by Chick-fil-A, challenges team members to look past the basic requirements of their jobs to create a truly outstanding guest experience.

"We really believe firmly in that second mile service. Teaching our team… you have to give them their food, you have to get them on their bowling lane. But what’s that second mile service? We want to show that amazing guest service and go that extra mile to make sure that their experience is outstanding and that they want to come back and that they feel valued."

-Jenny Emley

Jenny explains how they tailor each new location to the specific needs of the local community—like adding pickleball in Florida or a live music venue in North Texas—rather than sticking to a rigid, one-size-fits-all model.

On this special edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ continues our special 4-part series featuring the finalists for the American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA) FEC of the Year award!

We are joined next by Chris Barton, Assistant General Manager of Uptown Alley in Surprise, Arizona. Chris shares how this 60,000-square-foot powerhouse has evolved from a bowling-centric hub into a diverse entertainment destination.

"The biggest thing that I believe sets us apart is service. I want my team to be able to tell me: What did you do today that the guest is going to remember tomorrow?" — Chris Barton, Uptown Alley

We dive deep into the "entertainment arms race," the importance of scratch-kitchen dining, and why "hiring the person, not the resume" is the secret sauce to creating unforgettable guest memories. Whether you’re curious about navigating tech trends or building community ties, Chris offers a masterclass in staying relevant through humility and extreme ownership.

On this special episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ kicks off a special 4-part series featuring the finalists for the American Amusement Machine Association (AAMA) FEC of the Year award!

We first sit down with Doug Mechling, owner of Star Lanes Polaris in Columbus, Ohio. Doug takes us behind the scenes of their 35,000-square-foot facility, sharing how they transformed a former Circuit City into a premier bowling-anchored destination.

"I think the best compliment we get is when people come in and ask, 'How long have you guys been here?' and we're 13 years old. If you walked into our place, you would have no way of knowing." — Doug Mechling

Doug digs into how they have stayed relevant by mixing in high-tech hits like 501 Darts, but the fancy stuff only gets you so far. The real reason Star Lanes Polaris is a top-tier finalist is its obsession with the small, unglamorous details that stick with guests long after they leave.

On this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ sits down with Laura Zorn, owner of Bravoz Entertainment in Jacksonville, to discuss the practical and profitable integration of AI in family entertainment centers. Forget the "robot takeover" tropes, Laura explains how she’s using smart automation to solve the biggest headaches in the FEC world. From hitting an 80% close rate on birthday parties to reclaiming hours of staff time, Laura shares the exact blueprint she used to move her team away from the computer screen and back onto the floor with guests.

On this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Danny dives into the historic turnaround of Curt Cignetti and the Indiana Hoosiers and his strategy for high performance FEC teams.

After decades as one of the losingest programs in college football, Coach Cignetti arrived in Bloomington and delivered a 16-0 perfect season and a national title by 2026. This isn't just a sports story; it is a masterclass in leadership. Danny explores how the "Cignetti Effect" applies directly to your Family Entertainment Center by translating Cignetti’s 3 pillars of success:

Get the right people (and let the wrong ones go).

Change the way your team thinks.

Stick to a process and a standard.

Are you ready to lead your venue like a championship coach?

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ sits down with industry veteran Craig Buster (COO of Pinz LA and former GM of Wild Island Coconut Bowl) to peel back the curtain on why repeat visits aren't accidental. Craig shares why the first and last five minutes of a visit are your most critical windows and explains how empowering your frontline staff can transform a customer complaint into a "win" for your culture. From the psychology of a confused guest to the power of high-fives and senior league brand ambassadors, this episode is a masterclass in the relationship business.

In this edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta talks all about why your FEC needs zombie loyalist. Utilizing Peter Shankman's book, Zombie Loyalist, Russ breaks down how small, obsessive acts of "surprise and delight" can transform your business. We aren't talking about expensive marketing gimmicks or massive capital investments. We’re talking about the power of the human connection: empowering your staff to go off-script, tailoring experiences so they feel bespoke rather than "cookie-cutter," and creating those "did that really just happen?" moments that guests can't help but share on social media.

If you're looking for low-stakes, high-impact ways to make your center the talk of the town, this deep dive is for you.