In this episode, Jon sits down with Christine Parkhill, the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of Just Slots, a slot game designer, to explore the fascinating world of online slot development. Christine shares how her team leverages data to create player-centric games and dives into the challenges and rewards of competing in a crowded market. From the psychology of play to the future of personalization, this conversation is packed with insights for anyone curious about the gaming industry.

A huge high-five to Optimove for keeping this podcast alive and kicking! They’re all about turning customer data into marketing gold with tools that make businesses shine. Optimove, your support means the world to us and to all our listeners!

A big thank-you to Clarion Gaming for keeping the gaming industry buzzing and sponsoring our podcast! They’re the superheroes of gambling, connecting businesses with unmatched energy and expertise. Let’s be real, they make the gaming world feel like a jackpot every day.

We’re thrilled to be sponsored by OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions—your go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so competitive, it might even give our banter a run for its money. Thanks for helping us keep the odds ever in our favor!

This episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 194) in a nutshell:

* The unique challenges of launching a new slot in a highly competitive industry.

* How Just Slots uses data to create more player-friendly and engaging games.

* The importance of understanding player behavior, from session lengths to game preferences.

* The evolving role of personalization in gaming.

* Why some games have a short lifespan, while others become classics.

* The untapped potential of social features in slot games.

* Why metrics like returning players are key to evaluating a slot’s success.

Choice quotes:

* Christine Parkhill: “[When developing slot machine games], it’s not just about how much money the game makes. When we look at other factors, we end up making better games.” 

* Christine Parkhill: “[With slot machines,] there are many different players. Some players want high-risk thrills. Others want low volatility.” 

* Jon Bruford: “The gambling industry generates so much data and we rarely use it—but that’s  definitely changing.”

Thanks to Christine Parkhill for being on the show! 

Learn more about Christine at https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-parkhill-03558529/ 

Visit Just Slots: https://www.just-slots.com/ 

The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.

Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR

Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF 

Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast 

Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ 

Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ 

Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ 

Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ 

Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.SuccessWithStories.com

This episode dives into the complexities and quirks of gambling legislation in Alabama, with investigative journalist Josh Moon sharing insightful stories and sharp commentary. Josh and host Jon (Fintan was away today) have a wide-ranging discussion, from the history of gambling in Alabama to the potential for transformative legislative changes. 

Josh Moon is an investigative journalist with the Alabama Political Reporter who loves tackling the tough questions and digging into the heart of the matter

Big thanks to Optimove for sponsoring us! They’re the maestros of marketing, orchestrating campaigns that hit all the right notes and resonate with customers. Optimove, we couldn’t do this without your support, and we’re so glad to have you on board.

Clarion Gaming, you legends! Thanks for sponsoring us and being the champions of the gaming world. From live events to digital connections, they’ve got the network, the know-how, and the mojo to tackle anything the gambling industry throws at them.

A huge shout-out-you to OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions for sponsoring our little show! EveryMatrix brings us real-time betting data so reliable, we’re thinking of hiring them as our personal life coaches. OddsMatrix, you’re the best wingman we could ask for in the gambling world.

This episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 193) in a nutshell:

* Gambling in Alabama, including dog tracks, electronic bingo, and the impact of religious influence on Alabama’s gambling legislation.

* Competing interests among private casinos, Native American tribes, and other stakeholders.

* Stories of underground gambling operations and the sheer scale of untaxed cash flows.

* The rise of neighboring states’ lotteries and casinos pulling money out of Alabama.

* Insights into the politics and lobbying efforts shaping Alabama’s gambling landscape.

* The Poarch Band of Creek Indians’ growing influence in the gambling sector.

* Broader cultural observations about Alabama’s relationship with gambling and change.

A quote by Josh Moon: “In Alabama, there's so much money being made under the table [with illegal gambling] and the laws are so screwed up that it incentivizes people to keep doing the illegal stuff instead of properly taxing everything.” 

Thanks to Josh Moon for being on the show! 

Read Josh’s articles at https://www.alreporter.com/author/j-moon/ 

Follow Josh at Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/joshmoonal.bsky.social 

The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.

Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR

Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF 

Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast 

Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ 

Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ 

Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ 

Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ 

Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.SuccessWithStories.com 

In this episode, Jon chats with Andrew Cardno, co-founder and CTO of Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI), about the groundbreaking ways AI and data activation are revolutionizing the gaming and resort industries. 

We’re thrilled to have Clarion Gaming as a sponsor, the go-to source for all things gaming and gambling! Their dedication to connecting businesses and fostering innovation makes them the MVP of the industry. 

Shoutout to Optimove, the superheroes of CRM marketing! They help businesses save the day with smarter customer insights and real-time decision-making powers. 

Big thanks EveryMatrix! From their competitive sports and esports coverage to their industry-leading accuracy, they offer everything you need in the betting world. Hey listeners, learn more about their OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions. 

This episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 192) in a nutshell:

* The creation and impact of QCI’s AI-powered simulacra.

* The difference between co-pilot and simulacra models of generative AI.

* How QCI automates data integration for resorts, reducing years of work to days.

* The importance of calculating lift in marketing campaigns for casinos and resorts.

* The role of AI in fostering human creativity rather than replacing it.

* How AI is making advanced analytics accessible to businesses of all sizes.

Choice quotes:

* Andrew Cardno: “We decided not to employ a chief operating officer, and instead build one using generative artificial intelligence.”

* Andrew Cardno: “In business, people still want to do creative stuff [instead of giving that over to AI]. But they want everything around the company to be automated.”

* Jon Bruford: “You don’t learn anything by getting it right.”

* Jon Bruford: “I don't want AI to do the shit that I enjoy doing, like writing fiction and drawing pictures. I want AI to do the laundry and clean the floors to give me time to write and paint.” 

Thanks to Andrew Cardno for being on the show! 

Learn more about Andrew at https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcardno/

Learn about Quick Custom Intelligence: https://quickcustomintelligence.com/ 

The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.

Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR

Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF 

Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast 

Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ 

Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ 

Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ 

Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ 

Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.SuccessWithStories.com 

In this episode, Jon and Fintan chat with Conor O'Donovan, African Partner at Tekkorp Capital, about navigating Africa’s diverse gambling markets. Conor shares insights into the challenges of market entry, the role of mobile money in the region’s growth, and Tekkorp’s strategy to create a unified, de-risked portfolio. With a blend of humor and deep expertise, the conversation highlights Africa’s complexity and promise in the global gaming industry.

Thanks to Optimove for sponsoring this episode! They’re the marketing wizards who turn customer data into magical, personalized campaigns that drive real growth. We appreciate Optimove for keeping this podcast running and for helping businesses build better relationships.

Shoutout to our sponsor, Clarion Gaming, the heartbeat of the gaming and gambling world! They’re the glue that keeps this industry connected 365 days a year, whether it’s through their amazing live events, digital platforms, or their all-star team. If there’s a challenge in gaming, you better believe Clarion has the insight to solve it.

Special thanks to EveryMatrix for sponsoring this episode! With OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions, their real-time data and extensive coverage of sports and esports give bettors the edge they need. Whether you need a full sportsbook solution or just data feeds, EveryMatrix is the gold standard. We appreciate their support for the show!

This episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 191) in a nutshell:

* Understanding Africa’s diverse gambling markets.

* Why South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria are the top focus areas for some operators.

* Challenges of market entry, including regulatory complexity and payment integration.

* How Tekkorp Capital’s fund aims to create a de-risked portfolio by integrating local operators.

* Why local brands dominate African gambling markets and the challenges faced by foreign operators.

* How Tekkorp leverages technology to navigate Africa’s fragmented ecosystem.

Choice quotes:

* Conor O'Donovan: “There's a graveyard of gambling brands that tried to enter the African market organically. But there's been some success stories.” 

* Conor O'Donovan: “In Africa, industries like environmental and healthcare have a lot of foreign direct investment, but gambling, less so. But it's certainly going to go that way.”

* Jon Bruford: “Right now is possibly the most interesting time for the South African gambling market in decades.” 

Thanks to Conor O'Donovan for being on the show! 

Learn more about Conor at https://www.linkedin.com/in/tribe/ 

Check out Tekkorp Capital: https://www.tekkorp.com/ 

The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.

Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR

Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF 

Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast 

Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ 

Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ 

Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ 

Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ 

Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.SuccessWithStories.com 

In this episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 190), Motti Colman, VP of iGaming at Optimove, joins Fintan and Jon to explore the intersection of AI and the gambling industry. They discuss how predictive modeling and hyper-personalization are transforming marketing strategies, improving customer experiences, and addressing responsible gambling concerns. 

In iGaming, players may think the big win is the highlight, but behind the scenes, it’s Optimove’s CRM software—that's the true MVP. With Optimove, you can juggle players, promotions, and data with the finesse of a Vegas croupier. Thanks Optimove, for being a sponsor. We owe you a standing ovation!

Also, thanks to EveryMatrix! Whether you're into sports or esports, their platform offers reliable data and an unmatched number of markets to choose from. Plus, their industry-leading accuracy ensures you stay ahead of the game. Thanks for backing the podcast! Hey listeners, check them out: OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions!

And thanks to Clarion Gaming. They’re like a well-timed boost in a race, making sure you’re not only in the game but winning it. Thanks for being the secret weapon we can count on, even when we hit those podcasting speed bumps!

In a nutshell:

* The evolution of AI from predictive modeling to mainstream buzzword status.

* How Optimove pioneered hyper-personalization in iGaming.

* The concept of the "positionless marketer."

* AI’s role in identifying and mitigating problem gambling behaviors.

* Balancing responsible gambling with player value maximization.

* Using AI to create highly personalized customer experiences.

* How Optimove’s predictive modeling helps marketers understand their customers.

* Combining AI capabilities with human creativity.

* Why some applications of AI, like content generation, still suck.

* Predictions for the next wave of AI innovation in iGaming.

Choice quotes:

* Motti Colman: “It seems like every business is telling their customers: We are AI, or We have AI. But quite a lot of that is BS.” 

* Motti Colman: “At Optimove, we were doing AI before it was cool. And I always talk with our sales team about not throwing around fancy buzzwords, but to talk about how we utilize AI.” 

* Fintan Costello: “One-to-one marketing and personalization makes for a great presentation to the exec team. But for the boots on the ground,  delivering it is a nightmare. You can't do it without automation.” 

* Jon Bruford: “What companies tell us is personalization is often them just trying to sell us more of the same stuff, which is the opposite of personalization.” 

Thanks to Motti Colman for being on the show! 

Learn more about Motti at https://www.linkedin.com/in/motticolman  

The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.

Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR

Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF 

Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast 

Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ 

Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ 

Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ 

Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ 

Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.SuccessWithStories.com

In this episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 189), Alex Pratt of Clarion Gaming and Jon Bruford discuss the monumental task of moving ICE to Barcelona and creating a globally immersive gaming experience.

A warm shoutout to EveryMatrix. Their OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions delivers cutting-edge solutions for sportsbook platforms and data feeds, offering real-time and highly accurate data across a variety of markets. We’re proud to have such an innovative partner supporting the podcast!

In the wild world of iGaming, a reliable CRM can feel like the holy grail. But thanks to Optimove, you’ve hit the motherlode! Their software will help stay on top of customer relationships like a high-stakes gambler who never loses! 

Some sponsors just do their thing and disappear—not Clarion Gaming. They’re always there, 365 days a year, making sure the gaming and gambling industry stays connected. Thanks for being the sponsor who never logs out, and for making our podcast feel like a winning bet every time!

In a nutshell:

* ICE Barcelona 2025 is an international gaming industry trade event set to take place from January 20–22, 2025, at the Fira Barcelona Gran Via in Barcelona, Spain.

* Clarion Gaming’s focus on safer gambling, cybersecurity, and new technology as essential event themes.

* The growing importance of creating holistic attendee journeys, inspired by experiences like Disney and music festivals.

* The challenges of managing global events in spaces not always built for modern exhibitions.

* How Clarion is fostering innovation by collaborating with local governments and tech ecosystems.

* Trends in attendee behavior, including the rise in interest in safer gambling workshops and customer journeys.

Choice quotes:

* Alex Pratt: “From a financial and employee perspective, gambling is a massive industry. But at its core, it's a small industry. And it's easy to not do well if you're obnoxious. But if you're transparent and kind, you'll do okay.” 

* Alex Pratt: “In the gambling industry, having a finger on the pulse is never easy. But trying to understand all the nuances and insights that are changing in the market is crucial, and it’s what ICE Barcelona 2025 is all about.” 

* Jon Bruford: “These days, there are a heck of a lot of gambling events out there that are on a grand scale. It’s exciting that Clarion Gaming decided to go through such a big change—different country, different venue, etc.” 

Thanks to Alex Pratt for being on the show! 

Learn more about Alex at https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-pratt/ 

Go to ICE Barcelona 2025: https://www.icegaming.com/ 

The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.

Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR

Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF 

Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast 

Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ 

Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ 

Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ 

Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ 

Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.SuccessWithStories.com 

In this episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 188), Jon speaks with Paul Speirs-Hernandez about leadership, communication, and cultural transformation. Paul shares insights from his two decades in the gaming industry and his leadership training initiatives, highlighting the importance of positivity and adaptability in personal and professional growth. 

Big thanks to EveryMatrix and their OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions! With industry-leading accuracy and a wide range of betting markets, you’re revolutionizing the sports betting space. We're lucky to have you as a sponsor!

Clarion Gaming, you keep the dice rolling and the cards in play. Whether it’s live or digital, you’ve got this industry covered, and because of you, we get to sound like we know what we’re talking about on our podcast! 

We’ve hit the CRM jackpot, and it’s all thanks to Optimove! No more worrying about losing track of players, bonuses, or promotions. You’ve turned customer management into a seamless game, and for that, we’re doubling down on our appreciation!

In a nutshell:

* There’s a big difference between "genius culture" and "growth culture" in organizations.

* Shortened attention spans are (you guessed it!) reshaping messaging and outreach.

* The power of removing words like "can't," "try," and "but" from team vocabularies.

* Strategies for fostering trust and relationships across all levels of a company.

Choice quotes:

* Paul Speirs-Hernandez: “People forget who they are all the time. They get wrapped up in the tactics of things, and they forget the strategy of things. And strategy is based on who you are.”

* Paul Speirs-Hernandez: “Everyone needs to be a leader, period.”

* Jon Bruford: “Culture's this amorphous, constantly shifting thing. It's difficult to define. But it's easy to see when it's wrong or when it's right.”

* Jon Bruford: “One of the best things that ever happened to me was Hobbits on the cinema screen. I felt so seen.” 

* Jon Bruford: “If you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life—especially if what you love is sitting on your ass and not working.”

Thanks to Paul Speirs-Hernandez for being on the show! Paul is the Master Trainer at Red Wagon Institute and President of Steinbeck Communications. 

Connect with Paul on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-speirs-hernandez/

Check out the Red Wagon Institute: https://www.redwagoninstitute.com/ 

The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.

Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR

Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF 

Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast 

Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ 

Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ 

Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ 

Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ 

Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.SuccessWithStories.com 

This episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 187) features a conversation with Matt Smith, the Director of External Affairs for Bet No More, who shares his personal journey of recovery from gambling and alcoholism. 

Thanks to our amazing sponsor, EveryMatrix! Their OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions provides an unmatched number of betting markets, combined with real-time data you can trust. Whether you need full sportsbook services or just top-tier data feeds, they’ve got you covered!

Let’s be real—while we discuss all things gaming, Clarion Gaming are out there championing businesses, connecting people, and handling all the hard stuff. Meanwhile, we get to sit here and yap on about it. Thanks for doing the heavy lifting, Clarion. We’ll see you in Barcelona for ICE 2025! 

In a world where players love unpredictability, Optimove’s CRM is always reliable, always smooth, and never jammed like an old slot machine. Thanks for powering us up with a platform that’s as thrilling as a huge win but as consistent as a dealer’s shuffle!

In a nutshell:

* Matt discusses the importance of addressing addiction holistically, considering root causes such as mental health and social isolation, rather than solely focusing on the behavior itself. 

* Our society (sorry to get on our high horse here!) needs more empathy and understanding so we can support those affected by gambling harm. 

* Lived experiences—such as Matt’s—can help shape effective responsible gambling initiatives. 

Choice quotes:

* Matt Smith: “If you just treat gambling issues in isolation, then there’s a big chance you'll miss something else that’s going on, like alcoholism or another related problem.”

* Matt Smith: “I wasn't showering. My mental health had deteriorated. I had no income and no hope. I reached out to someone at a treatment center for alcohol. I said, I need help. He said, Come.” 

* Jon Bruford: “Critics treat gambling as the problem in and of itself. But we need an interagency approach to gambling treatment. A main driver for gambling issues among women is domestic abuse. So, if all you treat is the gambling addiction, you're pissing in the wind because you're avoiding the root cause of the problem.”

Thanks to Matt Smith for being on the show! 

Learn more about Betknowmore: https://www.betknowmoreuk.org/ 

Connect with Matt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-smith-betknowmoreuk/ 

UK National Gambling Helpline: 0808 8020 133. 

The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.

Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR

Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF 

Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast 

Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ 

Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ 

Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ 

Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ 

Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.SuccessWithStories.com 

In this episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 186), Leo Judkins, a performance coach and iGaming leader, joins Fintan and Jon to discuss self-care and sustainable performance in iGaming. He also shares practical tips on how to manage distractions, prioritize tasks, and build healthy habits to achieve both personal and professional success. 

Shoutout to EveryMatrix for sponsoring this episode! Check out their OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions! Their accurate and real-time data truly sets them apart in the industry. Whether you’re a business or a bettor, their solutions can elevate your game!

With Optimove’s CRM software, managing customers feels as exciting as a free spin on slot machines! No more pulling the lever and hoping for the best—we’re on a winning streak, and it's all thanks to Optimove. Cheers to keeping things as fun as the games we manage!

Ready for ICE Barcelona 2025? Clarion Gaming certainly are, and our podcast is eternally grateful to them! I mean, who else can keep an industry connected every single day of the year? It’s like having the cheat code to infinite support. You guys are the unsung heroes behind the scenes, making sure everything runs smoothly, including our ramblings!

In a nutshell:

* Taking breaks and prioritizing your mental and physical health. 

* The impact of distractions on productivity and focus. 

* How to manage your environment to promote better habits. 

* The benefits of setting realistic goals and making small, incremental changes. 

* The power of mindset and self-talk. 

* The role of leadership in promoting a healthy and productive work environment. 

Choice quotes:

* Leo Judkins: “Identifying your biggest roadblocks, then making small changes to them is usually more effective rather than trying to do a full 180.” 

* Fintan Costello: “My rule of thumb is everyone should do therapy and everyone should have a coach. Otherwise, we get too caught up in our own heads.”

* Jon Bruford: “In the middle of things, it's easy to lose perspective. And shit doesn't stop raining down on you, does it? And sometimes, you need outside forces—like a therapist or a coach—to help you restore perspective.”

* Jon Bruford: “I wanted to do some photo stories of a badger living his life as a human. But I couldn’t find a human-sized badger outfit. Weirdest thing.” 

Thanks to Leo Judkins for being on the show! 

Join Leo’s iGaming Leader Mastermind and listen to The iGaming Leader Podcast: https://www.igamingleader.com/ 

Learn more about Leo at https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/ 

The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.

Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR

Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF 

Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast 

Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ 

Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ 

Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ 

Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ 

Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.SuccessWithStories.com 

Join us in this episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 185) for a fascinating conversation with Duncan Garvie, a true pioneer in the online gambling industry. From his early days with ThePOGG.com to his current work with Bet Blocker, Duncan talks about the evolving landscape of online gambling, and how we can create a safer and more responsible industry for all.

 A huge thank you to our sponsor, EveryMatrix! They offer a sportsbook platform—OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions—that covers sports and esports, paired with real-time data and unmatched accuracy. Whether you're looking for complete solutions or specific features, EveryMatrix has your back. Thanks for powering our podcast!

Optimove is the ace up your sleeve! When it comes to keeping track of players, promotions, and everything else in iGaming, you couldn’t have better CRM software than Optimove. Thanks for helping us stay ahead of the game! 

Clarion Gaming is like that rare power-up in a game that boosts everything! They fuel businesses, connect the industry, and somehow keep our podcast running like a well-oiled machine. It’s a mystery to us how they do it all—but we’re just here to say a huge thank you! Clarion Gaming makes it all look easy—see you at ICE Barcelona 2025!

In a nutshell:

* The challenges of regulating the black market and the need for a multi-faceted approach.

* The need for greater transparency and accountability from operators and software providers.

* The importance of empowering consumers with the knowledge and tools to make responsible gambling choices.

* The impact of cryptocurrencies and the rise of unregulated online casinos.

* The effectiveness of responsible gambling tools, such as blocking software and deposit limits.

* Addressing the root causes of gambling harm, such as financial distress and social isolation.

Choice quotes:

* Duncan Garvie: “Sometimes, problem gamblers who are vulnerable and most desperately need the support—they’re the least able to access it.” 

* Duncan Garvie: “If a problem gambler has to pay for blocking software, they’ll sometimes gamble that money to try to win back what they've lost.” 

* Fintan Costello: “I love entrepreneurs. I love people who go out and build stuff.” 

* Jon Bruford: “If grey market operators are doing any kind of banking services, then there's leverage. Pressure can be applied. You can say to them either behave or f**k off.” 

* Jon Bruford: “I like to not shit my pants, but it just takes a sneeze at the wrong time.” 

* Jon Bruford: “I don't like admitting that I don't know as much as somebody else, especially people with hair.”  

Thanks to Duncan Garvie for being on the show! 

Learn more about  Duncan at https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncan-garvie-588658199/

Get the free gambling blocker software, Bet Blocker: https://www.betblocker.org/ 

The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.

Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR

Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF 

Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast 

Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/ 

Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/ 

Follow the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-gambling-files-podcast/ 

Sponsorship enquiries: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/contact/ 

Get our newsletter: https://thegamblingfilestldr.substack.com/

This episode was produced by Story On Media & Marketing: https://www.SuccessWithStories.com