Explore every episode of the podcast The iGaming Leader
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| The iGaming Leader Podcast - Welcome to Sustainable High Performance | 16 Nov 2024 | 00:01:55 | |
The iGaming Leader Podcast with Leo Judkins uncovers the human side of the iGaming industry's most successful leaders. Join us as we explore the untold stories, challenges, and triumphs of the executives shaping one of the world's most dynamic sectors. Each week, we dive deep into conversations with C-suite leaders, founders, and directors from global betting firms and innovative startups. Our guests share their authentic journey to the top, revealing pivotal career moments, leadership philosophies, and personal strategies for sustainable success in this high-pressure industry.
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| Breaking Barriers as a Female Leader in the iGaming Industry: Petra Zackrisson's Journey | 20 Nov 2024 | 00:34:15 | |
Episode Summary In this episode, host Leo Judkins interviews Petra Zackrisson about her fascinating journey from management consulting to diplomat to iGaming executive. Petra shares her experiences as a female leader in a male-dominated industry and offers practical advice on driving diversity, building trust with teams, and balancing short-term goals with long-term vision. Guest Bio Petra Zackrisson is a passionate, driven leader with extensive experience in online gaming, international business development, and strategy. She started her career at McKinsey before becoming one of the youngest trade commissioners as a diplomat. In 2013, Petra transitioned into iGaming, working in executive roles at Betsson and Kaizen Gaming. She served as SVP of Growth at Better Collective and board member at Casumo. Petra is an advocate for diversity and incremental change towards building more diversified, healthy businesses.
Memorable Quotes "I want to hang in there because I think it's very important for other young women to see that it's possible. It's possible to go all the way to the top and it's possible to do that with family and with children too." "Diversified teams are financially sound. If you are a consumer service company, it's important that your teams reflect your target audience. Today, most companies ignore 50% of the population because they are very male-oriented." "Trust is key. It's important to tell people what they are good at, what their strengths are. I'm asking my team for help and that showcases that they can actually tell me things and give me feedback." Important Links:
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| Rob Fell on Authentic Leadership and Thriving in the iGaming Industry | 20 Nov 2024 | 00:43:58 | |
"We're all figuring out stuff as we go. There is no real jump between here and here. It's just that someone maybe got there a little bit before and thinks in a slightly different way." - Rob Fell Episode Summary In this candid conversation, Rob Fell, former COO of NetEnt and White Hat Gaming, shares his journey from British Army officer to iGaming executive. Drawing on his extensive experience across major operators like Paddy Power, GVC (now Entain), and NetEnt, Rob discusses the challenges of leadership, the importance of authenticity, and how to navigate difficult decisions. He offers valuable insights on building autonomous teams, dealing with imposter syndrome, and maintaining personal wellbeing while leading through challenging times. Rob Fell is a highly accomplished iGaming executive with extensive experience in C-Level, Director & VP roles across Product & Operations in FTSE 100, FTSE 250, and NASDAQ Stockholm listed companies. His career spans from British Army officer to leadership positions at major gaming companies including NetEnt, White Hat Gaming, GVC Group, and Paddy Power. Rob is known for his expertise in post-M&A operational transformation and building high-performing product teams.
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| Leading Through Change: How to Transform Teams and Performance - Rob Duthie, Entain | 27 Nov 2024 | 00:39:18 | |
"Instead of running away from challenges every day, I actually run towards them because within that challenge is actually very, very likely I'm going to find a lot of engagement and happiness and fulfillment." - Rob Duthie Episode Summary Guest Bio Key Topics Discussed Key Takeaways
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| From FMCG to iGaming: Marija Hammon on Building Brands, Leading with Empathy, and Career Evolution | 11 Dec 2024 | 00:38:19 | |
"Every single person has value to add. Even if you are at the very beginning of your career, even if you haven't started your career and you're still studying, you have value to add because you are a couple of steps ahead of someone else." In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo interviews Marija Hammon, a dynamic marketing leader with a fascinating journey across industries. Marija shares her evolution from FMCG to iGaming, where she has reshaped corporate branding and led high-performing teams with empathy and vision. The conversation delves into the importance of adaptability, the art of leading with heart, and how building strong teams and brands go hand in hand. Marija also provides practical insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, embracing personal and professional growth, and using platforms like LinkedIn to amplify one’s voice and influence in the industry. Whether you’re an aspiring leader or a seasoned professional, this episode is packed with lessons on leadership, balance, and creating a lasting impact. Guest Bio Marija Hammon is one of the most influential marketeers in betting and gaming and has helped bring innovative B2C thinking and creativity to the world of B2B. Her vision and originality are an inspiration not only to her colleagues but to others within the industry. Marija joined Relax Gaming from Catena Media in 2019, having pivoted from the world of hair care and beauty. She has dual master’s degrees in Business Administration and Integrated Marketing from the University of Malta and San Diego State University. Her career at Relax saw her start as Brand and Communications Manager. It was in this role that she quickly made her mark, helping re-build the brand and revamping Relax Gaming’s website. She later moved into the role of Product Marketing Manager before being promoted to Head of Marketing and then Marketing Director in January 2024. Her marketing and PR campaigns have proven to be incredibly successful, and she has overseen the studio’s brand awareness push around its expansion into several newly regulated markets, helping grow its distribution reach in key areas such as North America. Key Topics Discussed 00:00 - Marija’s career journey: Transitioning from FMCG to iGaming and reshaping Relax Gaming’s brand.
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| A Masterclass in iGaming Leadership: Dimitry Belianin's Story of Grit and Growth | 04 Dec 2024 | 00:33:39 | |
"If you can find someone who does the thing at least 80% as good as you, you should give it away." - Dmitry Belianin shares his philosophy on empowering the next generation of iGaming leaders. Episode Summary After 17 years in iGaming, Dmitry Belianin has had his most successful year yet, launching multiple ventures simultaneously. In this revealing conversation, he discusses his journey from competitive poker player to industry innovator, sharing insights on leadership evolution, delegation strategies, and the importance of long-term vision in iGaming. Dmitry also opens up about his personal transformation through health and wellness practices that have fuelled his professional success. Key Topics
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| Extreme Ownership: Roger’s Insights on How Accountability Can Transform Your Career | 22 Jan 2025 | 00:41:11 | |
Roger shares his unique insights about overcoming personal and professional challenges, developing accountability, and maintaining a growth mindset to achieve great success. We delve deep into the lessons Roger has learned about leadership, the importance of team spirit, and the transformative power of taking ownership for your own actions. You will gain valuable advice on balancing ambition with personal well-being, celebrating team success, and embracing the journey of self-improvement. Guest Bio Roger Redfearn-Tyrzyk is a 32-year-old visionary leader and the Vice President Gaming at IDnow, now 8 years in the iGaming industry.. With a career that began in sales, Roger has rapidly ascended to leadership roles and became the youngest VP in the company at 29. A huge sports fan with football, American football, basketball, Formula 1 and baseball being by far his favourites. In his own words: making mistakes is the only way to get better, owning and being accountable for your own actions is the only way to become and stay successful. Key Topics Discussed 00:00 – Roger’s Journey to VP at IDnow
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| From Police Raids to Transforming iGaming Events: Pierre Lindh’s Remarkable iGaming Leadership Story | 15 Jan 2025 | 00:48:21 | |
From Police Raids to Transforming iGaming Events: Pierre Lindh’s Remarkable iGaming Leadership Story In this episode of the iGaming Leader podcast, Leo speaks with Pierre Lindh, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Next.io. Pierre shares his entrepreneurial journey, from founding a poker club in his teens to leading Next.io through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation explores the evolution of Pierre’s leadership style, the importance of building genuine connections, and his mission to foster a global iGaming community. The discussion highlights lessons in resilience, adaptability, and authenticity, offering inspiration and practical advice for leaders and entrepreneurs navigating a rapidly evolving industry. Guest Bio Today we're joined by Pierre, a pioneering force in the online gambling and gaming industry. His remarkable journey began during the early days of online poker, where his passion for the industry first took root. In 2006, Pierre took on an influential role with the Swedish Poker Federation, championing the cause for poker legalisation in Sweden. His expertise then led him to leadership positions at major online gambling platforms like Betsafe and Betsson Group, where he mastered the art of high-end hospitality events. Drawing on his rich industry experience, Pierre co-founded Ambassadör Events in 2013, which has since orchestrated over 600 successful events and created some of Europe's most celebrated festival brands. But he didn't stop there. In 2019, Pierre embarked on his most ambitious venture yet, co-founding NEXT.io, which has quickly become the beating heart of the iGaming community. Under his guidance, NEXT.io has evolved into a powerhouse, hosting major conferences across Europe and North America, while running the industry's leading trade media news portal and podcast covering online gambling and sports betting. Key Topics Discussed 00:00 – Welcome and Introduction: Pierre shares his roots in poker and his entry into the iGaming industry. 02:00 – The story of founding a poker club at 17 and the lessons learned from navigating challenges with law enforcement and media attention. 07:00 – How Pierre’s intense focus has shaped his ventures, from poker to building Next.io. 13:00 – The Birth of Next.io: The journey from organizing events for others to founding a platform focused on creating meaningful iGaming experiences. 15:00 – Adapting During COVID-19: How Next.io reinvented itself during the pandemic by offering free thought leadership content, reshaping the way iGaming professionals connect. 19:00 – Insights into navigating financial challenges during the pandemic and fostering loyalty and trust within the team. 24:00 – Public Speaking and Overcoming Fears: Pierre’s personal journey to overcome his fear of public speaking, culminating in hosting Next.io’s inaugural event. 35:00 – Building Genuine Connections: Why relationships are at the heart of success in iGaming and the importance of creating authentic communities. 42:00 – Vision for the Future: Pierre’s mission to build the world’s most connected iGaming community and foster collaboration across the industry. Important Links Connect with Pierre Lindh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pierrelindh/ Learn more about Next.io: https://next.io/ Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/ | |||
| The Real Cost of Success as a Founder with Pini Yakuel | 08 Jan 2025 | 00:37:29 | |
The Real Cost of Success as a Founder with Pini Yakuel
Key Topics Discussed
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About the Guest Our guest today is Pini Yakuel, a visionary entrepreneur who's revolutionising how brands connect with their customers. As the Co-founder and CEO of Optimove, Pini has transformed a two-person startup in 2009 into a global powerhouse in retention marketing. Under his leadership, Optimove pioneered the concept of Customer-led Marketing, flipping the traditional marketing playbook on its head by putting customers - not campaigns or products - at the centre of every decision. This innovative approach has proven remarkably successful, helping hundreds of leading consumer brands boost their customer lifetime value by an average of 33%. Pini brings a unique analytical perspective to marketing, backed by his Master's degree in Industrial Engineering and Management from Tel Aviv University.
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| Redefining Leadership: Lex Scott on Leading with Vulnerability | 01 Jan 2025 | 00:38:38 | |
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| From A Stroke to Sustainable High Performance - Mike de Graaff's Wake Up Call at 33 | 18 Dec 2024 | 00:40:24 | |
From A Stroke to Sustainable High Performance - Mike de Graaff's Wake Up Call at 33
10:45 - The turning point: Suffering a stroke and reassessing priorities
19:20 - Avoiding burnout: Warning signs, reflections, and lifestyle changes
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| From Burnout to Unstoppable Entrepreneurship: Lessons in Leadership and forging your own path with Robert Lenzhofer | 29 Jan 2025 | 00:31:20 | |
From Burnout to Unstoppable Entrepreneurship: Lessons in Leadership and forging your own path with Robert Lenzhofer In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Robert Lenzhofer, Co-Founder & CEO of Hölle Games, to discuss his 20-year journey in the gaming industry, from his early days at Bwin to leading his own tech-driven company. Robert opens up about the lessons he learned from burnout, the power of asynchronous work, and the importance of creating agile, efficient teams. This conversation is packed with insights for leaders seeking to improve organizational flow, reduce workflow waste, and build sustainable businesses while maintaining personal well-being. Guest Bio Robert has been involved in free-to-play and real-money gaming for 20 years. Starting with Bwin in Vienna in 2001, Robert was instrumental in the early stages of product development of the sports betting and casino products, specifically being responsible for the launch of Bwin Casino and Bwin Poker. Robert moved to Berlin in 2010 and headed the Product Development of Crowdpark, an Earlybird and Target-Partners funded venture in the area of social betting. Later, Robert co-founded Crowdbet, taking prediction market technology into the real-money sports betting market. In 2015, Robert co-founded Glück Games, a real-money lottery game supplier for private and state lottery companies. In 2018, Glück Games merged with Gamevy, a London-based supplier of Instant Win games. Today, the company is called g.games and has multi-year contracts with the state lotteries of Italy, Norway, Turkey, Latvia, Denmark, Morocco, etc. Today, Robert is the Co-Founder & CEO Hölle Games, an ISO 27001 certified 'Made in Germany' video slots company that also has a Remote Gaming Server (RGS) business-vertical called hinterzimmer.io. Key Topics Discussed 00:00 – Robert transition into the gaming industry. Memorable Quotes
Important Links
Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/ | |||
| The Keys to iGaming Leadership Roles with Andrew Bulloss | 12 Feb 2025 | 00:37:18 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Andrew Bulloss, Partner at Odgers Berndtson, to explore the evolution of leadership in the iGaming industry. Andrew shares his journey from sports recruitment to building one of the most influential executive search practices in betting and gaming. The conversation covers how leadership requirements have changed over the last decade, why curiosity is an underrated trait, and what it really takes to break into C-level positions. Andrew also dives into how leaders can develop their self-awareness, overcome imposter syndrome, and position themselves for board-level roles. Whether you're an aspiring leader, an experienced executive, or someone looking to make a meaningful career move, this episode is filled with actionable insights and hard-earned wisdom to help you grow. Guest Bio Andrew Bulloss is a Partner at Odgers Berndtson, where he runs the global gaming practice - all the board and leadership roles handled in igaming, betting and interactive entertainment internationally. He also runs the broader entertainment division at Odgers - a team of around 20 people in London working with clients in media, sport, music and gaming. Last year they handled over 90 senior appointments in 14 countries His expertise in identifying high-impact leaders, understanding talent trends, and guiding executives into board-level positions has made him a trusted advisor to CEOs, investors, and leadership teams worldwide. In his own words: I love my job. I meet some amazing people. Its a good reason to get out of bed in the morning. He is a Dad of twins, mid-life crisis mountain biker and road biker.
00:00 – Welcome and Introduction Memorable Quotes 📌 “Imposter syndrome shows that you care. If you’re not at least a little nervous before a big meeting, do you even care about the outcome?” 📌 “I only do the things that only I can do.” 📌 “Curiosity is a leadership superpower. Great executives look beyond their industry for ideas and innovation.” 📌 “Being authentic and showing empathy, they’re the foundation of strong leadership.” Important Links
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| How to Lead Major Industry Events – Alex Pratt on Balancing Success with Well-Being | 05 Feb 2025 | 00:49:10 | |
How to Lead Major Industry Events – Alex Pratt on Balancing Success with Well-Being
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| Stand for yourself and believe in yourself — Leadership lessons from Elena Chambers | 26 Feb 2025 | 00:36:18 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Elena, a seasoned executive with extensive experience in business transformation and leadership. Elena shares her journey from starting as a PA to leading billion-pound transformation projects in highly regulated industries. The conversation explores navigating career transitions, the importance of leadership adaptability, and how diverse perspectives shape high-performing teams. Elena provides actionable advice for leaders looking to progress into executive roles and lead with confidence. Guest Bio Elena Chambers is the Group Chief Transformation and Corporate Development Officer at Allwyn, bringing over 20 years of global experience in strategic planning and business transformation. Her journey from starting as a PA in Moscow to leading billion-pound transformations showcases her ability to drive innovation across industries. Prior to Allwyn, she served as COO at 888holdings where she led the William Hill post-merger integration, and spent 12 years at British American Tobacco leading a £1.2bn global transformation program. A graduate of both Columbia and London Business School, Elena brings a unique perspective shaped by her cross-cultural experience, with a leadership approach that emphasizes curiosity, authenticity, and building diverse teams to drive organizational change. Key Topics Discussed 02:00 – Elena’s career journey: From PA to leading transformation projects 03:50 – Breaking into the iGaming industry and taking on executive roles 07:20 – Managing international teams and adapting to different leadership cultures 11:50 – Leveraging strengths as a woman in a male-dominated industry 20:30 – The importance of delegation and letting go to grow as a leader 25:30 – Handling imposter syndrome and embracing continuous learning 29:00 – Lessons from the tobacco industry: Anticipating regulatory changes in gaming 32:20 – The future of national lotteries and the role of technology in transformation Memorable Quotes "If you try to mimic your male colleagues' behavior, that's not going to get you anywhere—be yourself and use your unique strengths." "One of the biggest skills for a leader is to build a team that complements each other, not one that mirrors each other." "Start transforming from the inside while you still can—don’t wait until you’re forced to change." Important Links Connect with Elena: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenareznikorskaya/ Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/ | |||
| Resilience, Growth & Leadership in iGaming – Georgia Parry | 19 Feb 2025 | 00:35:37 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Georgia Parry, Director of Key Accounts at Blueprint, to discuss her incredible career progression, overcoming adversity, and her leadership philosophy. Georgia shares how she went from an office administrator to a director in just seven years, the lessons she learned from a major health scare, balancing leadership with single parenthood, and how she built her confidence in a high-stakes industry. This conversation dives into personal resilience, leadership growth, and strategies for managing stakeholder relationships in gaming. Whether you're an aspiring leader, a working parent, or someone looking to build more confidence in your career, Georgia’s story is packed with valuable insights. Guest Bio Georgia Parry is the Director of Key Accounts UK at Blueprint Gaming, where she has been a key player for the past seven years, starting her journey as an Office Administrator before rapidly climbing the ranks. Prior to joining the gaming industry, she worked as a Sales Negotiator in real estate, but her passion for people and relationship-building naturally led her into commercial roles. As an extroverted and highly social leader, Georgia thrives in roles that emphasize human connection. She firmly believes that people buy from people, not just products, and that hiring genuinely good individuals is the foundation of a successful business. While still learning the nuances of her leadership position, she embraces the journey and the challenges that come with it. Outside of work, Georgia is a devoted mother to her 8-year-old son, Henry, her greatest motivation to succeed. Key Topics Discussed 00:00 – Welcome and Introduction Memorable Quotes 📌 “I truly believe that if you understand what makes people happy at work, you’ll get the best out of them—without needing to be a strict leader.” Important Links
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| You don’t get the corner office…You TAKE it: Britt’s Leadership Journey in iGaming | 05 Mar 2025 | 00:32:18 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Britt Boeskov, an experienced executive in iGaming and digital transformation.
Guest Bio
After a long C-level run with Kindred Group, she now serves on the boards of Better Collective, Mindway AI, GAMING1 Group, MAG Interactive and Racecourse Media Group; and provides tailored support through 4see Advice.
02:00 – Britt’s journey to C-level executive 04:40 – Transitioning to an established industry leader Memorable Quotes "You don't get the corner office. You take the corner office." Important Links Connect with Britt: Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ | |||
| The Real Stories Behind the iGaming Leader Mastermind | 23 Apr 2025 | 00:23:04 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with several standout members of the iGaming Leader Mastermind to share their deeply personal journeys of transformation. From burnout and overwhelm to sustainable high performance, these stories reveal the real impact of removing the mask and prioritising wellbeing in the world of leadership. The conversation explores burnout, work-life balance, imposter syndrome, stress, resilience, leadership growth, and personal recovery — offering inspiration and actionable insights for ambitious iGaming professionals ready to lead without losing themselves in the process. Our Guests
Fintan Costello is a veteran founder and advisor in the industry. After facing burnout, he rebuilt a better approach to business and life. Julia Weygandt is the Group CCO at CallsU and a committee member at Global Gaming Women. Once overwhelmed by work, she found clarity, boundaries, and a powerful support system. Carl Hallam is Co-Founder of Vega Gibraltar. Once mentally and physically exhausted, he’s now living with presence, peace, and professional purpose. Lex Scott is VP of Gaming at ITV Studios. From near breakdown to emotional recovery, Lex shares how he rediscovered balance and inner peace. Richard Marquis is a Director at Flutter/Sky Gaming. After losing his mother, he redefined his approach to time and work, creating sustainable habits and intentional living. Arturs Zagurilo is a CCO who overcame imposter syndrome and scepticism about coaching. Through the Mastermind, he became more productive and genuinely happy. James Murray is Director of Business Development at Playnetic. From burnout and hopelessness to reclaiming control and confidence, his story highlights the power of asking for help. Key Topics Discussed 00:00 – Rob Fell on building clarity and overcoming burnout through structure Memorable Quotes "I was done. I was working long days, working weekends… but I knew it wasn’t sustainable." – Fintan Costello Important Links
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| If you don’t adapt, you die. The Real Value of Leadership with Vladimir Malakchi | 16 Apr 2025 | 00:40:32 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo Judkins sits down with Vladimir Malakchi, investor, advisor, former CCO of Evoplay and CEO of Xanada Investments. Vladimir shares how adaptability, integrity, and fearless decision-making shaped his journey from government employee to multi-industry executive and respected leader in iGaming.
Vladimir Malakchi is a strategic investor and business scaling expert with 10 years of experience. Over the past 5 years, he has mentored iGaming companies, guiding them to commercial success and top industry rankings. Recognized as Speaker of the Year and Influencer of the Year, Vladimir is among LinkedIn's top voices in the industry. He has led companies to over 300 awards and nominations. A respected judge and speaker at global gaming conferences, Vladimir launched Xanada Investments — an investment fund that supports promising iGaming projects, focusing on business scaling through financial backing and a community-driven approach for mutual success.
03:00 – Betrayed by a friend helped by a stranger 08:00 – Couldn’t go back and face my mother 10:50 – Why adaptability is the most critical skill for founders 11:50 – Career pivots, mindset shifts, and making your own luck Memorable Quotes
Important Links Connect with Vladimir Malakchi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vmalakchi/
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| There’s Always a Way Out: Mark Schmidt’s Story of Recovery and Redemption | 09 Apr 2025 | 00:36:25 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Mark Schmidt, Managing Director at EveryMatrix and a seasoned iGaming professional with over 17 years of industry experience. Mark shares his extraordinary journey from rising through the ranks in sports betting and gaming, to battling addiction, depression, and suicidal thoughts—and ultimately rebuilding his life and career. The conversation explores the pressures of leadership in iGaming, the dangers of burnout and imposter syndrome, the stigma around mental health in male-dominated environments, and the importance of vulnerability, boundaries, and support systems. Mark offers raw honesty and empowering insights for anyone facing personal challenges while navigating high-performance careers. Guest Bio 16 Year career in iGaming focusing exclusively on Africa. Mark has worked for the industry's leading B2B providers in senior roles with the likes of Sportradar and IMG. His career started off in B2C as the head of trading for Hollywood Bets where his love of horse racing began. He’s a dad to three girls and has been married for ten years to his amazing wife Derryn. He’s currently with EveryMartrix and is the Managing Director - Africa. Key Topics Discussed 00:00 - Introduction Memorable Quotes "Although I was there in body, I wasn’t there in mind." Important Links Connect with Mark Schmidt:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-schmidt-aa27398b/ | |||
| Building your own future, Sasha Uman’s Journey to CCO at Playtech Live | 02 Apr 2025 | 00:38:12 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Sasha Uman, Chief Commercial Officer at Playtech Live.
With extensive experience in negotiating IP and software licensing agreements, as well as managing strategic contract renewals and re-negotiations, Sasha excels at navigating complex, high-impact projects to swift and effective resolutions.
Key Topics Discussed
04:00 – Knocking on doors and asking for what you want 10:29 – Dealing with overthinking and building a strong support system 12:51 – Managing imposter syndrome and finding confidence through connection 18:42 – Balancing leadership and family life in the iGaming industry 23:14 – Overcoming challenges and defining leadership through adversity 26:26 – The value of authentic leadership and doing things your own way 32:30 – Delegation struggles and the long-term value of empowering others 36:20 – Advice for business development professionals looking to grow fast
"Overthinking turns into a vicious circle. It’s better not to go into it at all." "You can achieve things in your own way. There’s no one path to success." "Don’t just pitch the revenue share—understand the product deeply." "People don’t always know what you’re capable of unless you show them."
Connect with Sasha Uman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sasha-uman-17722780/ Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/ | |||
| Facing Scandals and Industry Wars with Paris Smith | 26 Mar 2025 | 00:45:14 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Paris Smith, former CEO of Pinnacle and one of the most influential leaders in the iGaming industry. Paris shares her journey from sports betting to leading a powerhouse brand, highlighting the challenges, leadership lessons, and industry shifts she has navigated. The conversation explores high-performance culture, resilience in the face of public scrutiny, and the evolving dynamics of leadership in iGaming. Paris shares what it takes to thrive in a fast-paced, ever-changing industry. Guest Bio Paris Smith began her Hall of Fame gaming career in 1995 with WWTS. In 2006, she joined Pinnacle, helping transition the business toward Asian and European markets. She then restructured Pinnacle into a B2C bookmaking leader, pioneering initiatives like accepting the first esports bets in 2010. With unmatched industry expertise, Paris now serves as an advisor and consultant, leveraging her passion and experience to guide others through Life Winning and Defy the Odds. Key Topics Discussed 00:00 – Guest introduction Memorable Quotes "I love crunch time. Three seconds left, down by two—I want the ball. That's how I approach leadership." "You can’t thrive in iGaming if you’re not listening, learning, and evolving. Stagnation isn’t anoption in this industry." "Resilience isn’t about avoiding challenges—it’s about knowing you’ll push through them, no matter what." Important Links
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| Naive or ballsy? Building a company from scratch in an industry you don’t know with Helen Walton | 19 Mar 2025 | 00:45:17 | |
Naive or ballsy? Building a company from scratch in an industry you don’t know with Helen Walton In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Helen Walton, Chief Commercial Officer and Co-Founder of G Games, an online casino studio. Helen shares how she went from working on household brands to co-founding a gaming business that supplies games to over 800 operators.
Offering insights into leadership, resilience, and industry innovation, Helen provides valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and gaming professionals. Guest Bio Helen Walton is the Chief Commercial Officer and Co-Founder of G Games. Over the last decade, she and her business partners have grown G Games from a bold idea into a global company, supplying games to over 800 operators. Helen has worked across multiple industries, from beauty and retail to logistics and gaming, helping build some of the most recognizable brands. A well-known speaker and writer in iGaming, she is also a member of the UKGC Industry Forum, advocating for responsible gaming and innovation in the sector.
00:00 – From consumer brands to iGaming 03:00 – How G Games started 05:38 – Early failures that shaped G Games 08:01 – Why networking is critical to success 09:14 – Standing out in iGaming 12:18 – Overcoming setbacks 20:11 – Building a strong company culture 23:57 – The power of autonomy, trust, and feedback 29:58 – Delegation and letting go 35:14 – Bringing fresh talent into iGaming 41:15 – Take ownership of your career and create your own opportunities Memorable Quotes "We started with no network, no industry experience—just a crazy idea and a lot of persistence." "Failure is a great teacher. Every mistake we made helped shape the company we have today." "If you want to grow in your career, stop waiting for someone to tell you what to do—take ownership and make things happen." Important Links
https://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-walton/
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| Drowning the voices of Imposter Syndrome with Simon Pilkington | 12 Mar 2025 | 00:44:06 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Simon Pilkington, former CEO of KaFe Rocks and experienced iGaming executive. Simon shares his transformative journey, from navigating imposter syndrome and career shifts to prioritizing his health and well-being. They go deep into leadership challenges, personal growth, and the power of building a strong support system. Simon shares some valuable insights and practical advice for leaders striving to balance career success with personal fulfillment. Guest Bio Simon Pilkington is a seasoned iGaming executive with a background in leadership, strategy, and business transformation. 17+ years in the iGaming industry, spanning operator, media and data companies, affiliate companies, and his own businesses. Not a 'straight forward' career path, but one that led to CEO leadership with KaFe Rocks. Currently running Wander, a specialist and unique recruitment business, alongside a start-up and bootstrapped affiliate company called Best Betting Media. Key Topics Discussed 00:00 – Taking over as CEO: The challenges of stepping into leadership Memorable Quotes "I was doing everything for everyone—except myself. When I finally prioritized my well-being, everything else improved." Important Links
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| The Entrepreneur Mindset in a Corporate World | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:46:13 | |
In this episode of the iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Fintan Costello, former MD at BonusFinder and current Non-Executive Director at Gambling.com Group. Fintan shares the remarkable journey from launching daring stunts at Paddy Power to scaling an affiliate business through grit, creativity, and relentless execution. The conversation explores entrepreneurship inside and outside the corporate world, leadership lessons from marketing war zones, the truth about exits and earnouts, and what it really means to pursue “Big 2025 Energy.” A must-listen for iGaming professionals seeking resilience, strategic vision, and human depth. GUEST BIO: 17 years in the gambling industry but really a marketing nerd at heart. Fintan worked at some of the giants including PaddyPower, PokerStars and Google. Exited Bonusfinder to Gambling.com group where he currently serves as a Non-Executive Director. In his spare time he likes to run really long distances. Key Topics Discussed:
MEMORABLE QUOTES:
IMPORTANT LINKS: Follow with Fintan Costello: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/
Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/ | |||
| Who am I when I leave the Company? The Story of Nakeeta Janse van Rensburg | 17 Jun 2025 | 00:51:32 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, host Leo Judkins sits down with Nakeeta Janse van Rensburg, former Group CEO of the MEGA Group, co-founder of StratEdge Group, and UK ambassador for Women in Gaming Africa. Nakeeta shares her extraordinary journey through 17 years in iGaming leadership, culminating in her transition to entrepreneurship. The conversation explores leadership, burnout, servant leadership, emotional intelligence, and cultural challenges in corporate environments, offering powerful insights and hard-earned advice for executives navigating rapid growth, health challenges, and the personal cost of high performance in the gaming industry. Guest Bio
After 6 years of running the Ellipse Entertainment/MEGA Group she recently exited and has now co-founded StratEdge Group Inc which offers consulting services for new market entry worldwide, helping businesses navigate the entry without the unnecessary financial burn.
00:00 – When "We're a family" culture becomes toxic 02:54 – Building a confident, empowered, global team 06:20 – The cost of career growth: imposter syndrome and overwork 10:08 – The risks of not setting boundaries from the beginning 14:05 – The most important thing you can do for yourself 17:04 – Redefining relationships after stepping into leadership 20:00 – Coping with isolation at the top 23:00 – Sacrifices behind the scenes 27:43 – The power and traps of servant leadership 38:00 – Finding identity beyond the job title 46:15 Launching StratEdge agency and rediscovering purpose
"Some businesses actually do expect the team to die for the business — and will even use that language." "You have made work non-negotiable, and everything else is negotiable."
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| The Real Cost of Always Saying Yes with Frank Op de Woerd | 10 Jun 2025 | 00:48:58 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Frank op de Woerd, co-founder and CEO of CasinoNieuws.nl. Frank shares his journey from bluffing his way into poker journalism to becoming a respected media figure in the Dutch iGaming industry.
The conversation explores his reflections on poker fame, rebuilding from scratch, setting editorial standards, and staying true to his values in a highly competitive industry. GUEST:
OnlineCasinoGround.nl, BesteCasinoBonussen.nl, and GokkastenXL.nl, while also preparing to launch OnlineCasinoUSA.com. He also founded the Online Casino of the Year awards, the most prominent recognition for legal gambling sites in the Netherlands. Key Topics Discussed:
MEMORABLE QUOTES:
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter:
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| Hitting Rock Bottom to find his purpose | 31 May 2025 | 00:38:59 | |
In this episode of the iGaming Leader, Leo Judkins sits down with John Wright, co-founder of StatsDrone. John shares challenges and tough decisions he faced, almost going bankrupt and starting over with his business, finding his purpose, the role of therapy in his life, and the way he navigated through some professional and personal setbacks. The conversation explores his experiences with public speaking, social media engagement, and ultimately finding sustainable high performance. GUEST: John has been in iGaming for over 20 years as a professional gambler, affiliate manager, casino operator, affiliate and now as an affiliate analytics software builder. On top of being an affiliate coach, he is also on the Board of Trustees at BetBlocker Key Topics Discussed: 00:00 Welcome to the iGaming Leader Podcast 01:20 John Wright's Journey into iGaming 05:59 Finding Purpose and Overcoming Challenges 10:57 The Role of Therapy and Personal Growth 16:31 Balancing Patience and Agility in Business 21:07 The Painful Decision to Relaunch 25:05 Business Partnerships 31:22 The Highs and Lows of Pitching to Investors 36:01 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs MEMORABLE QUOTES: “All those previous 20 years they made me better at what I am today.” “You don't realize what we're locking inside ourselves…” “So when I look at people, I try to go a bit deeper and go, I know there's more pain and things that we don't see on the surface” “I believe if I don't do this work, someone else will but if I do this work, I also have an opportunity to do something positive about it” IMPORTANT LINKS: Contact John wright :
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alwayslookright/
https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/affiliate-bi-7063965031784148992/
https://open.spotify.com/show/0nTNXugQTY4Ww8JiSULeiu?si=a5654594f03041a3
https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/
https://www.igamingleader.com/signup
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| The Hidden Cost of Chasing Success in iGaming | 24 May 2025 | 00:35:28 | |
Guest Bio
He later moved to GSI, a casino middleware layer, which was eventually acquired by Push Gaming.
Key Topics Discussed
Connect with Daniel Beard
Subscribe to the iGaming Leader Newsletter: igamingleader.com/signup Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: igamingleader.com | |||
| The Entrepreneurial Journey: 30 Years of Leadership Lessons from David McDowell | 17 Dec 2025 | 00:49:05 | |
In this episode of the iGaming Leader Podcast, Leo sits down with veteran executive David McDowell, co-founder of FSB Technology and an early pioneer in the B2B platform space, to unpack the brutal reality of the 30-year entrepreneurial journey. David shares the truth about leadership burnout (it's the weight of the decisions, not the hours), the biggest mistake CEOs make when scaling (waiting too long to remove a talented but toxic employee), and the devastating cost of losing your vision. He offers a raw, cathartic reflection on the final chapters of FSB: being named Platform of the Year, only to have the momentum killed by a lack of capital investment demanded by a board focused on short-term liquidity. This is a crucial lesson in battling the "noise to the vision" and the indispensable wisdom only gained by staying in the game long enough to get the wins. About David McDowell David started his career as an engineer in Michigan and moved to London to do an MBA in 1993. He launched his first business, a two-sided marketplace using college students to teach adults how to use the internet, in 1995. He has since spent 25 years in the gambling industry. He co-founded GameAccount (now GAN), an early skill games provider that pivoted to B2B casino games and platform provider before its IPO in 2013. He currently works as an independent consultant with various gambling-related businesses and serves as an Entrepreneur Mentor in Residence at London Business School. Key Topics Discussed 00:00 - The entrepreneurial philosophy Memorable Quotes "The entrepreneurial journey is just staying in the game long enough so that you can get the wins." Connect with David McDowell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mcdowell-547209?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BomU134VSR%2B2eskLlRqTFHQ%3D%3D Follow Leo Judkins & iGaming Leader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ | |||
| The Architect of US Sports Betting and iGaming | 03 Dec 2025 | 00:45:32 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with William J. Pascrell III, “BP3”. He is a partner at Princeton Public Affairs Group and a driving force behind the legalisation of sports betting and online gaming in the United States. BP3 shares the unseen cost of bold bets: losing every major client when he onboarded PokerStars to help bring iGaming to America, the two-year sprint that followed, and the resilience forged long before politics from a 45-day coma with spinal meningitis to the daily discipline learned from his father. This is a conversation about courage, people, and choosing to be a happy warrior rather than an angry gladiator. About BP3 Bill Pascrell III is a veteran strategist and lobbyist who helped lead New Jersey’s iGaming framework and the decade-long campaign that culminated in PASPA’s repeal in 2018. He advises governments and gaming companies across the US and internationally on policy, compliance and market access. Key Topics Discussed 00:00 – Scars, setbacks and the “small gladiator” mindset Memorable Quotes “I have the scars and the bruises to show I was a small gladiator in this fight.” “Give me 10% of 40 million and I’ll get this done in two years. And we did.” “I could have treated my adversaries more as a happy warrior than as an angry gladiator.” “Titles come and go. What matters is how we treat each other.” Connect with Bill Pascrell III LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billpascrell/ Follow Leo Judkins & iGaming Leader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ Learn more about BP3 BP3 on Boston 25 News The Philadelphia Inquirer: Entain Foundation U.S. Educates Athletes on Sports Betting BP3 for Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: Pennsylvania's Casinos Must Protect Problem Gamblers Forbes: How New Jersey Will Double Down on Gambling if Casinos Come to New York City | |||
| Why High Performers Burn Out (But Don’t Quit) | 29 Jul 2025 | 00:49:01 | |
In this episode of iGaming leader, Leo sits down with Arturs Zagurilo, Chief Commercial Officer at Gamma Stack, who shares his inspiring journey from the banking sector to becoming a leader in the iGaming industry. He openly discusses overcoming imposter syndrome, embracing his unique work ethic of putting in 150% effort, and the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership. Arturs emphasises fostering a supportive work environment, where people can thrive and grow. He also highlights the significance of mental health, patience, and adapting your leadership style to meet the needs of a dynamic industry. GUEST BIO: Arturs Zagurilo is a dynamic leader at the forefront of iGaming, serving as Chief Commercial Officer at GammaStack, growing the team from a single individual to over 10, and expanding the sales team to more than 20 and achieving an astounding 10x sales growth in its first year. Arturs has also pioneered new business directions, including custom game development on a revenue-share model with tier-1 and tier-2 operators, and the launch of both Turnkey and Sweepstake Turnkey offerings. KEY TOPICS: 00:00 Arturs beginnings in Banking 04:24 Transition to iGaming 09:42 Work Ethic and Mindset: All or Nothing 16:48 The Journey of Self-Acceptance 21:35 Continuous Improvement and Building Support Systems 29:50 Leadership and Team Dynamics 40:07 The Value of Vulnerability in Business 48:02 Reflecting on Career Advice MEMORABLE QUOTES:
IMPORTANT LINKS: Connect with Arturs Zagurilo: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arturs-zagurilo-81a820134/?locale=en_US Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/ | |||
| Leaving the Game: Reinventing My Career at 36 | 22 Jul 2025 | 00:39:15 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Antti Koivula, iGaming lawyer at Legal Gaming Attorneys at Law, an expert on Finnish law and a former professional sports bettor. Antti discusses his transition from a demanding and very successful sports betting career to becoming a legal advisor and shares insights on managing extreme focus, the challenges of long working hours, and the life choices he made to optimise his performance and how his early ability to concentrate gave him an edge in sports betting and later in his law career.
02:10 Introduction to the iGaming Leader Podcast 02:52 Antti Koivula Journey into Sports Betting 07:00 The Transition from Sports Betting to Law 08:44 Balancing Family and Career 17:03 The Analytical Approach to Career Decisions 27:32 Starting a New Career in Law 35:05 Final Thoughts and Advice
IMPORTANT LINKS: Get in touch with Antti Koivula:
Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup | |||
| From Coder to CPO: Shelley Hannah’s unique journey to success in iGaming | 15 Jul 2025 | 00:50:11 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Shelley Hannah, CPO at Relax Gaming. Shelley shares her inspiring 25-year journey from software programming to executive leadership in iGaming. She opens up about battling perfectionism, navigating self-doubt, leading through rapid industry change, and recovering from a life-altering car accident. The conversation explores leadership resilience, mental health in high-pressure roles, and the power of empathy in building high-performing teams. Guest Bio Shelley Hannah started her career in 1999 as a software programmer, working in the air traffic industry and insurance. In 2013 she moved to the iGaming industry and, since then, has been working with partner programs, aggregation business, product innovation, operations and commercial. For nearly 7 years she has been part of the growth journey at Relax Gaming. Her career in product and software development has been instrumental in Relax Gaming's success and reputation as a leading B2B supplier. Shelley is currently on the move to a new role, to be announced very soon. Key Topics Discussed
Powerful Quotes
"Leadership is about helping others succeed" "Nobody expects you to work 15 hours a day. That pressure comes from you." Important Links
Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ | |||
| Why Work-Life Balance Is a Lie for Gaming Leaders | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:37:17 | |
In this episode of the iGaming Leader Podcast, Leo sits down with Grainne Hurst, CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council, a distinguished professional in the gaming industry with over a decade of experience working with prominent organizations such as GVC, Labworks Coral, and the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC). Grainne shares her challenging yet brilliant career starting from her return from maternity leave into a period of immense professional upheaval and a subsequent promotion. She discusses her journey of resilience also feelings of 'mum guilt' and her approach to managing work-life balance with a supportive network, her unexpected path into lobbying, and her entry into the gaming industry. GUEST BIO: Grainne Hurst is the CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council, bringing nearly a decade of leadership experience from global betting brand Entain, where she served as Group Corporate Affairs Director. With deep expertise in political communications, advocacy, and regulatory affairs. Grainne previously served as a special advisor to the UK government, and her appointment as BGC CEO came as part of a strategic leadership restructuring, with former CEO Michael Dugher transitioning to Chair. Currently serving as a board member of Global Gaming Women and leading the charity's international expansion across the UK, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. KEY POINTS: 00:00 — Introduction and Guest Welcome MEMORABLE QUOTES: “There's no such thing as a work-life balance.” IMPORTANT LINKS: Sun article by Harry Cole on tax consultation: Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: | |||
| Taking the Mask Off: Leadership Through Doubt, Pressure and Authenticity | 19 Nov 2025 | 00:52:38 | |
Jovana opens up about the emotional highs and lows of leadership, the hidden pressure of being “the strong one,” and the journey from intimidation and self-doubt to authentic, grounded leadership. The conversation explores losing her belongings abroad and what it taught her about vulnerability, balancing work with family roles, early-career imposter feelings, learning to lead without wearing a “manager mask,” and the reality of being a woman advancing through a male-dominated industry. Guest Bio
With more than 15 years of experience in the industry, she’s helped shape some of its most recognizable brands from Aspire Global to ORYX Gaming. Today she leads iGP’s evolution from a single-platform provider into a trusted, full-suite partner for operators worldwide. But what really defines Jovi is her belief that growth comes from people first. She’s known for leading with empathy, authenticity, and a strong sense of purpose, building teams where creativity, accountability, and trust go hand in hand. At iGP, she continues to champion the company’s Be Purple mindset, a reminder to stay bold, curious, and human, guiding both her team and partners to build gaming experiences that inspire connection and progress. Key Topics Discussed
Memorable Quotes “Do what you believe in.” “Why are you so afraid to show who you are? What’s the worst that can happen?” “If you don’t have a little stage fright, you don’t care enough.”
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jovanapopovic/ https://igamingbusiness.com/strategy/management/jovana-popovic-canaki-igp-leadership/ https://g3newswire.com/igp-a-transformative-year/ www.igpgaming.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ | |||
| The Calm CEO Playbook for iGaming Leaders | 05 Nov 2025 | 00:43:56 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Daniel Brooks, dual founder and hands-on CEO of BetComply and Ridentify. Daniel shares how a thoughtful, mentor-first approach lets him scale two companies at once, trust strong operators, and stay composed when cashflow shocks or client pull-outs hit. He explains how journalling, walking meetings, and “breathing through” crises turn panic into analytical problem-solving and innovation. The conversation explores people-first leadership, letting go without losing control, choosing and backing the right operators, making brave pivots without losing your core, and building a personal resilience system that keeps you calm under pressure. Practical insights for founders, COOs, and execs across iGaming. Guest Bio Daniel Brookes is an experienced business strategist and leader in the iGaming and technology sectors, currently serving as CEO of both BetComply and Rdentify. Known for his expertise in regulatory compliance, operations, and innovative AI-driven player protection solutions, Daniel has been instrumental in scaling businesses and driving growth in complex, regulated markets. He is recognised for his hands-on leadership style, strategic vision, and commitment to fostering collaborative, trust-first company cultures. Daniel’s work focuses on helping operators navigate the challenges of compliance while promoting responsible gaming and customer protection. Key Topics Discussed 00:00 – Thoughtful leadership: mentor first, megaphone second Memorable Quotes “Lead from the top, not in the weeds. Trust the team to deliver.” Connect with Daniel: https://betcomply.com/
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| Building a safe-to-fail team culture in iGaming | 22 Oct 2025 | 00:55:38 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Emma Blaylock, CEO of Pretty Technical and a tech leader who helped launch Kindle UK and drove early streaming at Sony. Emma shares how vulnerable leadership creates safe-to-fail teams that learn fast, stay calm under scrutiny, and execute with focus. The conversation explores helping your team feel safe-to-fail, hiring to your weaknesses, data-driven decision making, handling cashflow shocks, and female leadership in male-dominated rooms—offering practical insights for founders, product leaders, and execs across iGaming. Connect with Emma Blaylock: https://prettytechnical.io/ Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ | |||
| What it really takes to make it as a founder | 08 Oct 2025 | 00:55:51 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Max Meltzer, founder, CEO and investor, to unpack the real mindset and habits behind building in our industry.
The conversation gets practical on fundraising, boards, hiring, and handling criticism without losing empathy, plus a powerful journalling practice that keeps him grounded as a leader and dad.
Customers include PointsBet, Golden Nugget (DraftKings), Four Winds Casino, Genting and beyond. Shareholders include Betsson, OpenBet, Knutsson and more.
Memorable Quotes
“No one actually cares enough about you personally. Only you care about you to that extent… Do feel like, ‘what’s everyone going to think?’ No one’s actually thinking anything.”
Important Links Connect with Max Meltzer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxmeltzer1 www.strivegaming.com https://www.egr.global/intel/insight/strive-founders-journey-executing-on-strategy-and-the-evolving-ways-of-raising-capital/ Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ | |||
| What compliance is NOT | 24 Sep 2025 | 00:49:34 | |
Why "compliance" might be the worst job title in iGaming — and what it should really be called instead. In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo chats with Alex Henderson, VP of Compliance at Midnite and co-host of Compliance Chronicles. From financial investigations at the UK National Crime Agency to scaling compliance teams across multiple markets, Alex reveals the hidden realities of leadership in regulated industries. What You'll Discover:
This isn't your typical compliance conversation — it's raw, practical leadership advice for anyone managing teams in complex, regulated environments. 🎧 IN THIS EPISODE 00:00 – Why "compliance" is the worst possible name for the role 💡 KEY QUOTES FROM THIS EPISODE "The whole role of working in compliance is protection." "I'd rather go full-flat being innovative than follow mediocracy." "I cost the company a lot of money there… fantastic for compliance, but commercially a massive impact." "I was told early on: don't build relationships with your team because you'll have to fire them. I learned the hard way that's exactly what you should do." "I'll never stop making mistakes. They're the biggest lessons I've had in leadership." 🔗 CONNECT & FOLLOW
ABOUT THE GUEST Alex Henderson brings extensive experience in compliance, regulatory affairs, and operational risk within the gambling sector. His career spans work with leading operators, law enforcement agencies, and advisory firms, giving him a unique perspective on both commercial and regulatory challenges. He co-hosts The Compliance Chronicles, a podcast helping peers navigate complex regulatory environments. SUBSCRIBE for more leadership insights from iGaming's top executives and innovators! | |||
| Addiction in iGaming: A CCO’s Road to Recovery | 10 Sep 2025 | 00:41:07 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Huw Thomas, founder of Brandstage and co-founder of the new Recovery in Gaming community. Huw shares his two-decade journey through the iGaming industry, including senior leadership roles and billion-pound exits, alongside the hidden personal battles that almost derailed his career. This conversation explores the pressures of executive life, the dangers of numbing stress with alcohol, the turning point that led to 11 years of sobriety, and why recovery conversations are vital for the future of the gaming sector. Huw also introduces Recovery in Gaming, a safe community space supporting professionals across the industry. Guest Bio Huw Thomas is a brand strategist and leader in the global iGaming space. He runs Brandstage, a consultancy that partners with operators, startups, and scaleups across the UK, Europe, and the US to shape growth strategies through brand and communications. He is also co-founder of Recovery in Gaming, an industry-wide community for professionals seeking support with alcohol and drug recovery. With more than 20 years’ experience in gaming and a personal recovery journey of over a decade, Huw combines commercial expertise with a human-centred mission to build healthier leaders and organisations. Key Topics Discussed 00:00 – Huw’s first step into iGaming and early industry days
“If you’ve ever thought, even once, ‘Am I drinking too much?’ the answer is probably yes.” “I didn’t realise that the feeling of no shame and full acceptance was just one step away.” Important Links Connect with Huw Thomas: https://www.linkedin.com/in/huwowenthomas/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/recovery-in-gaming https://www.brandstage.com/
Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: iGamingLeader.com/signup Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: iGamingLeader.com | |||
| Why I Never Focus on Problems as a CEO — Justin Anastasi | 27 Aug 2025 | 00:43:01 | |
Stay ahead of the industry. Join our newsletter for insights that will help you perform, grow, and lead at the highest level: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Justin Anastasi, CEO of VentureMax Group and OverPWR. With a career spanning call centres, catwalks, politics, and the C-suite, Justin shares how authenticity, resilience, and a relentless focus on solutions have shaped his leadership journey. Justin’s perspective offers fresh insights for executives and leaders who want to thrive by being themselves, while driving growth and innovation in a demanding industry. Our Guest Justin Anastasi is a seasoned iGaming executive and entrepreneur with over a decade of leadership experience. As CEO of VentureMax Group, he leads a team of industry veterans investing in disruptive start-ups and building the future of iGaming. He is also Founder and CEO at OverPWR, a Malta-based angel investment venture. Justin’s track record in global business growth, HR, and leadership development reflects his commitment to people and innovation. His unique blend of authenticity, adaptability, and entrepreneurial drive has made him a standout figure in both the iGaming and technology sectors. Key Topics 00:00 – Show Intro “I’ve never really been burdened by the problem. I’m always thinking, how am I going to get it done?” “Time is a currency. I invest it — and I don’t like to lose” “You can’t make a CEO. Somewhere within them, they have that innate ability.” “The only thing you should be is happy.” Connect with Justin Anastasi on LinkedIn
Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: iGamingLeader.com/signup Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: iGamingLeader.com | |||
| Why I Had to Slow Down to Save My Career — Lee McFarland on Resilience, Vulnerability, and Building Community | 13 Aug 2025 | 00:39:45 | |
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Lee McFarland, a former British Army paratrooper and private security contractor turned iGaming industry executive. Lee shares his journey from military life to the corporate world, opening up about his struggles with PTSD, alcohol, and the ongoing process of self-awareness and recovery. The conversation explores the challenges of transitioning into civilian life, the value of authenticity in leadership, and the role of community initiatives like Behind the Gloves in fostering connection and wellbeing. Guest Bio Lee McFarland is a seasoned iGaming professional with a unique journey from elite military service to senior leadership in the global gaming industry. He's built high-performing teams and delivered complex projects across North America, bringing a distinctive perspective shaped by his military background. As founder of Praxis Point, Lee helps operators navigate market entry, product due diligence, and platform optimisation. He's also the driving force for Behind The Gloves, a wellness and boxing community within iGaming that's reshaping what authentic leadership looks like in the industry. Whether he's launching a new casino, evaluating PAM platforms, or running a 6am boxing session at a conference, Lee brings energy, empathy, and execution to everything he does. Key Topics Discussed 00:00 – From paratrooper to private security Memorable Quotes "We all get knocked down, how we get back and how we proceed is what defines us." Important Links Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ | |||
| From Affiliate Manager to CMO — Leading Through Crisis, Regulation & Restructure | 17 Jan 2026 | 00:43:09 | |
In this episode of the iGaming Leader Podcast, Leo sits down with Elen Barber, who went from affiliate manager to CMO at Kindred in just nine years, to explore what it really takes to lead through the industry's toughest challenges. Elen shares the brutal reality of her first weeks as CMO: facing a £100 million fine, Swedish re-regulation, plummeting share price, and multiple rounds of restructuring that forced her to make impossible decisions about people she'd worked alongside for years. She reveals how she kept 550 people motivated while simultaneously having to cut headcount, and why the loneliness at the top hit harder than she expected. About Elen Barber Elen Barber has been working in the gaming industry for over 20 years and has witnessed its evolution from the wild west days to today's highly regulated landscape. She's held CMO roles at Super Group and Kindred Group, managing teams across multiple countries and dealing with everything from new market launches to regulatory curveballs. Based in London, she's passionate about how this industry continues to reinvent itself. Key Topics Discussed 00:00 - Elen Barbers iGaming Journey Memorable Quotes "It is too easy to make money in our industry comparing to any other industries. The margins are much higher. So we are spoiled for this. It doesn't drive innovation." "You also create opportunities, you don't wait for the opportunities to be created for you. You can't rely completely on your manager to get you through your career." "And it is scary for the leader to understand and accept that suddenly you know significantly less than people within your team." "I've been working all my life, and I didn't know how to relax, I missed that mental stimulation. " "You really have to try to take emotions out of the business decisions because these things do not work together." Connect with Elen Barber LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elen-barber/ Follow Leo Judkins & iGaming Leader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ | |||
| Your Company is Not a Family: Bootstrapping Lessons with the Founder of TESTA | 13 Feb 2026 | 00:46:05 | |
In this episode of the iGaming Leader Podcast, Leo sits down with Kyle Wiltshire, the founder and CEO of TESTA. Kyle takes us on a journey from the high-octane "Wild West" days of Bodog in Manila to building a global, bootstrapped testing powerhouse from his base in Taipei. Kyle shares the "brutal" reality of scaling an operation from 50 to 1,200 people in a flash, the hard-learned lessons of dealing with technical partners who try to "hold products hostage," and why he believes the common corporate trope of "we are a family" is actually toxic for performance. He opens up about his philosophy of "making yourself non-essential" and why the most successful leaders are generalists who know exactly when to hand off the ball. GUEST BIO Kyle Wiltshire Kyle Wiltshire is a technical-leader-turned-entrepreneur who specialised in DevOps and backend innovation long before they were buzzwords. After years of driving massive scalability for Asia-facing operators, he founded TESTA in 2023 to solve a persistent industry pain point: real-world, crowdsourced QA for the global iGaming sector. Based in Taipei, Kyle is a self-proclaimed "generalist" with an MBA who believes in building lean, profitable businesses in uncontested markets. Key topics discussed 00:00 – Why a company is a sports team, not a family. Key takeaways The Sports Team vs. Family Model: A family is unconditional; a company is mission-based. Viewing your team as a high-performance sports unit allows for the "ruthless" but necessary decisions required to protect the organisation's goals. Make Yourself Non-Essential: The ultimate goal of a founder is to be "off the critical path." If a business requires you to be the subject matter expert in every room, you haven't built a company—you've built a job. The "Mom Test" for Software: You can have all the data in the world, but you will always learn more by watching a real person use your product in their own environment. Data tells you what is happening; stories tell you why. Bootstrap for Clarity: Outside capital often forces a "race to the top" that ignores product-market fit. Spending "money that would have been in your pocket" forces a more disciplined, scientific approach to growth. Stop Fixing People: In leadership, you cannot solve people like a technical challenge. Spending excessive time coaching a low performer isn't just a waste of your time—it’s an insult to your high performers who are actually carrying the weight. Memorable quotes "A company is not a family. Let's be honest, we're trying to accomplish this thing... It’s not, we're all just here to hug each other and sing Kumbaya." "How would you ever get promoted if they absolutely need you to do the thing that you do? The goal is to make yourself not essential." "If you are clever enough to build another slot company in 2026, good on you... I like the uncontested space." "You have to learn to fire people when it’s not working because it’s actually this weird superpower that brings the whole group together." Connect with Kyle Wiltshire: https://www.testa.io Follow Leo Judkins & iGaming Leader | |||
| The "Bait and Switch" of the C-Suite: Dealing with the gap between the job description and the reality of a company in trouble. | 06 Feb 2026 | 00:42:32 | |
In this episode of the iGaming Leader Podcast, Leo sits down with Ian Freeman, a commercial powerhouse who has navigated the high-stakes world of Kambi, IGT, and Inspired Entertainment. Ian pulls back the curtain on the "Bait and Switch" of executive leadership, the moments when the glossy job description meets the grim reality of a business in crisis. Ian reflects on the formative trauma of losing his father at 20 and how carrying a family legacy forged a "survive and thrive" mentality that defined his career. He shares the brutal honesty of walking into his first board meeting at a new firm only to realise the company was on the verge of insolvency, and how he learned, through painful trial and error, that coming in "too hot" can sometimes fuel the fire rather than put it out. Key topics discussed 00:00 – The First Board Meeting: Realising there wasn't "another page" to the numbers. GUEST BIO Ian Freeman, former CCO & CRO (Kambi, IGT, Inspired Entertainment), is a veteran commercial leader with over 20 years of experience across Europe, North America, and LatAm. From driving Kambi’s landmark IPO to navigating the complex regulatory waters of Brazil for Inspired, Ian has seen the industry from every angle. Beyond the boardroom, Ian is a devoted father in a blended family and a passionate fly fisherman who finds his clarity in the silence of nature. Follow Ian Freeman on Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/free-man Follow Leo Judkins & iGaming Leader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ | |||
| Founder Mode: Whatever it takes to get the job done | 01 Apr 2026 | 00:47:28 | |
In this episode of the iGaming Leader Podcast, Leo sits down with Daniel Graetzer, the former CEO and Founder of MaximBet and Carousel Group. Dan shares a raw, unfiltered account of the "tumbleweed effect" that comes with rapid scaling, eye-watering valuations, and the immense pressure of managing a high-profile brand in the US market. The conversation explores the "staring into the abyss" reality of leadership, the critical distinction between Founder Mode and Manager Mode, and the high price of isolation. Guest Bio Daniel Graetzer has spent the past two decades working across the full company journey, from building and scaling businesses to transactions, restructurings and exits, across tech, AI, iGaming and digital media. Over that time, he has led strategy, M&A, commercial growth and international expansion across Europe, the US, LatAm and Australia. He has worked with founders, operators and investors through growth phases, complex deals and high-pressure strategic decisions. Today, his focus is on advisory work, investing and supporting early-stage companies. Key Topics Discussed 00:00 - Raising money is just the start, not the celebration 04:00 - Sustainable High Performance 07:30 - Burnout and the "too little, too late" reality check 10:30 - Pivot to MaximBet and Nicki Minaj 14:00 - The $250M valuation that felt like a "momentum trap" 17:30 - Bullishness vs. Kidding Yourself 22:00 - How stress clouds strategic lateral thinking 26:00 - Empathy vs. Sympathy in the executive suite 30:00 - Stoicism and Values 34:00 - Mindfulness for High Performers 39:00 - Founder Mode vs. Manager Mode Memorable Quotes
Key Takeaways
Follow Daniel Graetzer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/graetzer/ Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/ This episode is sponsored by Sumsub, the leading identity verification provider for iGaming operators. Learn more at https://sumsub.link/8gu | |||
| I Can Survive Anything: Cancer, Career, and Cutting the Bullshit with Line Peteri | 25 Mar 2026 | 00:37:53 | |
In this episode of the iGaming Leader Podcast, Leo sits down with Line Peteri, a powerhouse leader who has scaled teams across tech, fashion, and iGaming. Line shares her raw, unfiltered journey of building a career since age 17, only to be reduced by others to her appearance, her relationships, and her health. She calls out the "fake bullshit" in the industry, discusses the isolation of being a high-achieving woman in her 20s, and explains why she refuses to compromise her values for a title. Guest Bio Line Peteri is VP - Strategic Partnerships at ATFX, operating at the intersection of performance, regulation, and global expansion in the financial trading industry. With a background in scaling brands, including co founding and growing roccamore, she brings a commercial, data driven approach to leadership and customer acquisition. Alongside her corporate role, she advises start ups on growth strategy and sustainable performance. A HYROX endurance athlete and cancer survivor, Line speaks on resilience, high performance mindset, and leading with clarity under pressure. Key Topics Discussed Memorable Quotes "I can survive cancer, I can survive anything. Even when I meet an asshole... I just think: you could just fuck off."
Follow Leo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/
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| Stop Fighting Alone: The Secret to Startup Survival | 14 Mar 2026 | 00:39:49 | |
In this episode of the iGaming Leader Podcast, Leo Judkins sits down with Ebbe Groes, the co-founder and CEO of EveryMatrix. From a garage in 2008 to building the world’s largest casino aggregation platform, Ebbe has navigated the brutal realities of scaling a B2B giant without the "fuel" of massive venture capital. Ebbe shares the high-stakes decisions of EveryMatrix’s "survival" era between 2015 and 2017, where the company nearly ran out of cash and the team took massive salary cuts to keep the dream alive. He pulls back the curtain on why he ringing a literal bell in meetings to keep efficiency high, the "law of large numbers" that makes VCs dangerous for founders, and why his recent decision to bring his brother in as co-CEO is about building a multigenerational legacy. GUEST BIO Co-founder & CEO, EveryMatrix Ebbe Groes is a seasoned technology entrepreneur with a PhD in Economics and a proven track record of scaling software startups. Since co-founding EveryMatrix in 2008, he has transformed a bootstrapped venture into a leading global B2B iGaming provider that remains debt-free and founder-controlled. With nearly two decades of experience in the sector, Ebbe is known for his sharp commercial focus on tier-one clients and his commitment to maintaining product agility through modular, independent business units. Key Topics Discussed 00:00 – The VC calculation: Why investors push 60% of companies "down the drain" Memorable Quotes
Key Takeaways
Follow Ebbe Groes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebbe-groes/ Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ This episode is sponsored by Sumsub, the leading identity verification provider for iGaming operators. Learn more at https://sumsub.link/8gu | |||
| You Only Learn on the Way Down: Lessons from a $300M Reality Check | 07 Mar 2026 | 00:50:39 | |
In this episode of the iGaming Leader Podcast, Leo sits down with Charles Cohen, a serial entrepreneur who has experienced the industry's highest peaks and most isolating moments. From building beenz.com, one of the internet’s first digital currencies, to pioneering mobile-first gaming with Probability plc, Charles shares the raw reality of leadership when the "arc of the universe" refuses to bend to your will. Charles reflects on the "seasickness" of the .com bubble burst, where a $300 million valuation evaporated almost overnight, and the discipline required to stick to a "mobile-only" strategy when the rest of the industry was laughing at the idea. Now leading the Department of Trust, he discusses the evolution of player safety and why the most valuable lessons in a career are almost always learned on the way down. GUEST BIO Charles Cohen Charles Cohen is a veteran technology entrepreneur who has founded, listed, and exited major businesses in both the UK and US. An Oxford PPE graduate, he rose to prominence as the founder of beenz.com before becoming the CEO of Probability plc, the pioneer of mobile-centric gambling games. Following Probability's acquisition by GTECH (now IGT), Charles spent nearly seven years as Vice President, leading global mobile and US sports betting expansion. Currently, he leads the Department of Trust, sits on the board of Veikkaus Oy, and serves on the UK Gambling Commission Industry Forum. Key topics discussed 00:00 – You can’t negotiate with reality: Adapting or walking away. Key takeaways Learn on the Downward Trend: Success masks inefficiency. True learning and organisational discipline are forged during downturns and failures rather than during rapid growth. Don't Finesse the Inevitable: When a paradigm shift occurs—like a market bubble bursting—leaders must accept and adapt immediately. There is no room for denial or finessing a fundamental change in reality. The Discipline of Specialism: Real value is built by doing something different, not by being a "different version" of what everyone else is doing. Sticking to a "mobile-first" bet when desktop was king created long-term enterprise value. Identity vs. Momentum: High-growth startups can turn founders into "passengers on their own train." It is essential to maintain a rational perspective when behavior starts to be influenced by metrics like "fundraising" rather than core business health. Systems Over People in Compliance: Regulatory failure is often a system failure, not a people failure. Overburdened and under-equipped departments require better data and systems (like Open Banking) to make risk-based judgments effectively. Memorable quotes "There's no room for denial, you can't negotiate with it... You've either got to accept it and adapt to it, or get out and walk away." "The lesson that I took out of it ultimately is: you don't learn anything on the way up. Everything you learn, you learn on the way down." "All this Silicon Valley horse shit about defining the future... You can not bend the arc of the universe." "What's a couple hundred million between friends?" Follow Charles Cohen on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cohencharles/ Follow Leo Judkins & iGaming Leader LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/
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