Entrepreneurs on Fire

How to Build a Pinball Empire When Everyone Thinks You’re Crazy with Jack Guarnieri

Aug 12, 2025
Join Jack Guarnieri, or Jersey Jack, the visionary founder of Jersey Jack Pinball. With over forty years in the industry, he shares his inspiring journey from a pinball mechanic to a leader in the pinball universe. Jack emphasizes that dreams can be blueprints for reality, discusses how pinball serves as playable artwork rich in storytelling, and highlights the importance of community over competition. He reflects on the connections forged through this vibrant culture, proving that pinball is not just a game but a lifestyle filled with fun and friendship.
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INSIGHT

Dreams Become Blueprints

  • Jack Guarnieri believes that if he can dream it, he can do it.
  • He used dreams as blueprints to found Jersey Jack Pinball.
ANECDOTE

Falling In Love With Pinball

  • Jack started as a temporary pinball mechanic after high school and loved watching people play.
  • Meeting players and making friends hooked him on pinball.
ANECDOTE

Risking It All For Wizard Of Oz

  • In 2011 Jack took orders for 1,000 Wizard of Oz machines before production existed.
  • Customers paid millions trusting his reputation and vision despite the risk.
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