Former Wisconsin operator Gene Urso, now 93, has a lot of great stories to tell, but also some valuable wisdom to impart to people in the coin-op amusement industry today, especially the next generation. Chief among them is to get involved, learn from experienced people, contribute, and not be intimidated by successful people. 

Urso, like our host Randy Chilton, served a term as president of the AMOA (Amusement & Music Operators Association) and only wishes he’d joined his state association, AMOA and the VNEA (Valley National 8-Ball League) sooner. Such membership helped him meet and learn from others in the business. That benefited his business, but more importantly, built enduring friendships. 

In his chat with Randy, Gene shares insights on AMOA’s bold NANI initiative (an early game networking plan), how much his wife Nancy contributed to the success of Madison Coin Machine, how if he’d do it all again, he wouldn’t talk business around the family dinner table, and more. 

He’s just as sharp as ever and if you wonder what keeps Gene ticking and so vibrant today, outside of his wife, Nancy, and family, it’s got to be golf. In a classic moment, Gene says, “I get up in the morning and I read the obituaries, and if I'm not there, I go golfing.” You’ll have fun and learn a lot out in this episode, so give it a listen!