Memory Makers Podcast

On this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ is joined by Clint Novak, Owner of Novak Amusement Solutions and Planet Novak, to unpack the hidden opportunities within small-footprint family entertainment centers (FECs). As traffic patterns shift and large-scale buildouts become increasingly expensive, the mid-sized and smaller market models are having a massive moment. Clint shares his firsthand experience launching Planet Novak, a highly successful 3,000-square-foot claw arcade concept that is blowing past its first-year revenue projections. From treating your staff like hospitality Sherpas to optimizing the high-stakes world of premium plush inventory, Clint outlines what it takes to thrive in today's local entertainment economy. "Our staff is very intensive. They know when people walk in, they say hello. They're very welcoming. They play with the kids and adults... they want to make sure everybody's a winner." Clint also drops invaluable, easy-to-implement operational life hacks—like turning on hidden automated software features—that can instantly add six figures to an FEC’s bottom line. As traffic patterns shift and large-scale buildouts become increasingly expensive, the mid-sized and smaller market models are having a massive moment.

On this episode of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ sits down with Armando Lanuti to strip away the confusion and look at AI through a practical lens. As a business owner, you do not need to become a master programmer to reap the benefits of this technology. At its core, AI serves as an elevated search engine and a powerful time-saver, helping you tackle everyday challenges in your Family Entertainment Center (FEC). From optimizing your website for Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) to building custom internal databases for staff training, this conversation maps out actionable strategies to implement right now. "Your self-worth is tied up into not your actual outcome of what you're doing, but the process of how you're doing it... If you adopt and utilize and learn how to integrate that new tool, you're going to be able to do more, and you're going to be able to use the things that make you uniquely you to solve problems." -Armando Lanuti Instead of fearing replacement, learn how to leverage these digital tools to boost your efficiency, reduce burnout, and give your team the freedom to focus on what they do best: creating powerful and emotional memories for your guests.

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 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 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.

In this holiday edition of the Memory Makers Podcast, Russ Van Natta takes a moment to step back from the usual interviews to celebrate a year of memories and shares what's ahead. Reflecting on a massive year that saw viewership spike by over 122%, Russ shares exclusive data from Spotify and YouTube that highlights what truly resonates with the FEC industry—from deep dives into opening new venues to high-impact operator interviews. As we wrap up the year, we’re pulling back the curtain on what’s coming in 2026, including a brand-new studio set, more data-driven content, and a renewed focus on the financial metrics and guest experiences that move the needle for your business.