The Gambling Files

First up, Jon and Fintan share some exciting news with listeners about how sexy the website just got – check it out at www.thegamblingfiles.com. [0:00 – 11:25]Then we welcome Jeff Laniado, Director of Sales at Optimove, discusses the evolving landscape of the online gaming industry, particularly focusing on sweepstakes casinos. He highlights the importance of player retention, the critical first 48 hours of player engagement, and the role of CRM in enhancing player experiences. We get into the challenges faced by operators in a competitive market and the need for personalized engagement strategies to retain players. Jeff shares insights on the distinct player types within the gaming ecosystem and the significance of understanding these differences for effective marketing strategies. It’s very good, we promise [11:26 – 1:00:38].Sign up for Optimove's awesome egg-related breakfast here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=DVoQZSrtVEeKfSSYgnrG7_GV1ngBAmZBpK5N-V9i3ERUOVg4NzhWR1UzQkxGSjdXUllWWEJNQjE0NC4uChoice quotes: "Player attention is fragile.""CRM fundamentals do matter.""I love working at OptiMove." Jeff Laniado on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-laniado-911b6052/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support. They are truly the Breakin’ to our Breakdance 2: Electric Boogaloo.  In no particular order they are:  the mighty EveryMatrix – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re gaining tier-1 operators all the time. The proof really is in the swan dive, and EveryMatrix is like watching a ballet dancer… Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that bring people sunshine… Well, I say sunshine. I may mean rain, but it’s all weather, am I right? Oh, and tell them you came via us and you get your first month free! Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo (January ’26 in Barcelona) and iGB Live! in London. We love you guys BIGGER THAN THE SKY.  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/3A57jkRSubscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: a...

We kick off in the usual fashion, with some blather from Fintan and Jon, and a little about the GC’s recent report on why people go to offshore operators [0:00 – 17:01].Then Jon has the pleasure of meeting Nasim Binesh, an Assistant Professor at the University of Florida, who discusses the transformative impact of AI on the gambling industry, highlighting the ethicalrisks involved. We get into the importance of transparency, fairness, and accountability in AI applications, as well as the need for comprehensive regulations. Binesh shares insights from her research on identifying risks in AI and gambling, the role of AI in early intervention systems for problem gambling, and the broader implications of AI on society and human interaction. The conversation concludes with a focus on the future of AI in gambling and the importance of responsible technology use [17:02 – 1:26:09]. It’s very grown-up. Choice quotes: "Transparency and fairness are crucial.""Human-AI collaboration is essential.""AI can enhance customer experience."Nasim Binesh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nasimbinesh/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support. They are truly the Breakin’ to our Breakdance 2: Electric Boogaloo. In no particular order they are:  the mighty EveryMatrix – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re gaining tier-1 operators all the time. The proof really is in the swan dive, and EveryMatrix is like watching a ballet dancer…Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that bring people sunshine… Well, I say sunshine. I may mean rain, but it’s all weather, am I right? Oh, and tell them you came via us and you get your first month free!Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo (January ’26 in Barcelona) and iGB Live! in London. We love you guys BIGGER THAN THE SKY. 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/3A57jkRSubscribe 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: a...

Jon kicks off with another menage-a-un, but… is that Fintan?... No, it’s not, it’s a craptacular ‘impersonation’ [0:00 – 4:39].Then we meet Harry Milas, a magician and sleight of hand artist, who shares his unique journey from game protection to performance art. He discusses his early fascination with magic, the transition from cheating in games to creating a theatrical experience, and the cultural differences in gambling and magic across various regions. The discussion also touches on the evolution of gambling in America, the social dynamics of poker, and the importance of audience engagement in his performances [4:40 – 49:25].Harry’s show can currently be seen in London at Soho Place until October 11th 2025 – if you’re in the area, check it out. You might want to book though, it’s a close-up show and tickets are extremely limited.  Harry Milas Magic on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/harry-milas-magic/about/ As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support. They are truly the Breakin’ to our Breakdance 2: Electric Boogaloo. In no particular order they are:  the mighty EveryMatrix – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re gaining tier-1 operators all the time. The proof really is in the swan dive, and EveryMatrix is like watching a ballet dancer…Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that bring people sunshine… Well, I say sunshine. I may mean rain, but it’s all weather, am I right? Oh, and tell them you came via us and you get your first month free! Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo (January ’26 in Barcelona) and iGB Live! in London. We love you guys BIGGER THAN THE SKY. 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/3A57jkRSubscribe 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:

First off, we have Jon trying to pull off an intro on his own, or as he describes it (and I think possibly feminises himself in French, because he says une. That's how that works, isn't it?), a menage a un. But it’s 2025 and we’re embracing all kinds of fluidity here on The Gambling Files, because we love absolutely everyone [0:00 – 4:08].Then we welcome back Jay Sayta, a top gambling and gaming lawyer from India with his keen eye trained on the absolute upheaval of recent weeks. Jay estimates (though not on the recording) that over 200,000 jobs have already been lost in India thanks to the very recent announcements by parliament. Absolute madness. Our conversation explores the rapid legislative changes in India regarding online gaming, highlighting the speed and secrecy of the government's actions, and we discuss the implications for the gaming industry, including the prohibition of online money games, the potential rise of offshore and crypto gambling, and the challenges of enforcing new laws. The taxation on gaming activities is also addressed, raising concerns about the viability of the market. The discussion concludes with reflections on the uncertain future of online gaming in India and ongoing legal challenges.Choice quote: "The law is unconstitutional."Jay Sayta on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-sayta-95477529/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support. Rhythm may be a dancer, but our sponsors are the funky funky beat. In no particular order they are:  the mighty EveryMatrix – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re gaining tier-1 operators all the time. The proof really is in the pudding, and OddsMatrix is so, so sweet…Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that bring people sunshine… Well, I say sunshine. I may mean rain, but it’s all weather, am I right? Oh, and tell them you came via us and you get your first month free!Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo (January ’26 in Barcelona) and iGB Live! in London. We love you guys BIGGER THAN THE SKY.  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/3A57jkRSubscribe 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: a...

We kick off – see what I did there? – the new episode by greeting the return of our hero, Fintan Costello, to these shores. Some say his return is what inspired Christopher Nolan to make his new epic ‘The Odyssey’ because he’s a fan; I can’t speak for that nice Mr Nolan but let’s just say it’s possible. We discuss the newly-announced Gambling Book Awards (www.gamblingbookawards.com), talk a bit about sponsors, and many other things [0:00 – 13:25].Then we meet guest Sam Zerfoss, VP of Customer Success for the Americas, at Optimove. His appearance is in no way connected to that company’s financial support as our corporate overlords, by the way.Anyway, we talk about the upcoming NFL season and its significance for sportsbooks and operators in the US and elsewhere. We get in to market trends, the evolution of bonuses and promotions, and the importance of personalisation in engaging customers. We explore the role of data in sports betting, the challenges of retaining fickle fans, and the cultural impact of sports and betting in the U.S. The episode concludes with insights into the future of sports betting and upcoming events in the industry [13:26 – 59:10].Choice quotes: "This is the most tingly moment.""It's a big week.""Personalization never hurts."Sam Zerfoss on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-zerfoss/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support. Rhythm may be a dancer, but our sponsors are the funky funky beat. In no particular order they are:  the mighty EveryMatrix – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re gaining tier-1 operators all the time. The proof really is in the pudding, and OddsMatrix is so, so sweet…Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that bring people sunshine… Well, I say sunshine. I may mean rain, but it’s all weather, am I right? Oh, and tell them you came via us and you get your first month free!Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo (January ’26 in Barcelona) and iGB Live! in London. We love you guys BIGGER THAN THE SKY. 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/3A57jkRSubscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn:

This episode, we kick off with a chat between Jon and interim stand-in co-host Melanie Ellis, who claims she is neither a doctor nor a professor. Who knew??? We get into personal experiences with mental health, the implications of blind boxes and loot boxes in retail, and the importance of live dealers in casinos. The conversation also touches on the role of casinos in local communities and the evolving nature of player engagement in the gambling industry [0:00 – 30:50].Then we meet superstar returning guest Richard Marcus, who could also be a professor. It’s hard to say for certain, but he has a certain professorial elegance about him. We discuss the future of table games in casinos, particularly in light of the recent trend towards automation. Richard shares his concerns about the loss of human interaction and the potential negative impact on the casino experience, and we touch on the economic implications of automated games, the role of dealers in player protection, and the broader social consequences of reducing skilled jobs in the industry. Marcus emphasizes the need to preserve traditional table games while adapting to technological advancements [30:51 – 1:37:32].Choice quotes: "It's not a great idea.""Humans are social animals.""Loneliness is a big deal."Richard Marcus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardmarcusgameprotection/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support. Rhythm may be a dancer, but our sponsors are the funky funky beat. In no particular order they are:  the mighty EveryMatrix – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re gaining tier-1 operators all the time. The proof really is in the pudding, and OddsMatrix is so, so sweet…Optimove,who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that bring people sunshine… Well, I say sunshine. I may mean rain, but it’s all weather, am I right? Oh, and tell them you came via us an d you get your first month free! Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo (January ’26 in Barcelona) and iGB Live! in London. We love you guys BIGGER THAN THE SKY. 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/3A57jkRSubscribe 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...

We kick off with a chat between Jon and current interim stand-in host Melanie Ellis [0:00 – 21:08] which takes in lots of things: tax, sponsors, and the glow of a cow to name just a few.Then we meet episode guest Ofer Friedman, Chief Business Development Officer at AU10TIX. We discuss the evolving landscape of identity verification, particularly in the context of gambling and the rise of deepfakes; the challenges posed by organized fraud, the importance of regulatory compliance, and the future of digital identities. The discussion also touches on the need for better user experience in verification processes and the role of technology in combating fraud. And Ofer answers a key question for the industry, authentication and fakes: what if someone has an evil twin? [21:09 – 1:26:40]Choice quotes: "The death of trust.""It's a strategy, not a weapon.""Bovine luminescence."Ofer Friedman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ofriedman/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support.  In no particular order they are:  the mighty OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re gaining tier-1 operators all the time. The proof really is in the pudding, and OddsMatrix is so, so sweet… Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that bring people sunshine… Well, I say sunshine. I may mean rain, but it’s all weather, am I right? Oh, and tell them you came via us and you get your first month free!Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo (January ’26 in Barcelona) and iGB Live! in London. We love you guys BIGGER THAN THE SKY. 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/3A57jkRSubscribe 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: a...

First up this week, we have Jon and stand-in interim co-host Melanie Ellis, partner at Northridge Law discussing… well, lots of things, really. You know how it goes [0:00 – 26:03].Then we follow that with returning guest Earle G Hall, CEO at AXES.ai, to discuss the ethical use of AI within the gambling industry. We go elbow-deep into the implications of AI in the industry, particularly focusing on the ethical guidelines proposed by the IGSA. We discuss the importance of data integrity, the role of blockchain, and the challenges of implementing ethical AI practices, the current uses of AI in gambling, the balance between responsible gambling and marketing strategies, and the future of AI regulations. Speaking of AI, it tells me that: “Throughout the discussion, personal anecdotes and humour are interwoven, making for a lively and thought-provoking dialogue.” [26:04 – 1:50:18]Choice quotes: "AI without blockchain is complete chaos.""You cannot code fog." Earle G Hall on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/earlehall/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support. In no particular order they are:  the mighty OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re gaining tier-1 operators all the time. The proof really is in the pudding, and OddsMatrix is so, so sweet…Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that bring people sunshine… Well, I say sunshine. I may mean rain, but it’s all weather, am I right? Oh, and tell them you came via us and you get your first month free! Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo (January ’26 in Barcelona) and iGB Live! in London. We love you guys BIGGER THAN THE SKY. 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/3A57jkRSubscribe 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:

Cross-operator self-exclusion for US players – it's a reality! I KNOW RIGHT.We kick off with some flim-flam or other between Jon and interim host Harry, and also mention our incredible sponsors (see below for links to their wares, and for those not in the know it’s OddsMatrix, Optimove and Clarion Gaming) [0:00 – 19:19].Then we meet IDPair founder Jonathan Aiwazian to talk about cross-operator self-exclusion in the US, and all the obstacles that make things like this quite awkward. The conversation does of course head in many directions, I won’t spoil the surprise here though [19:20 – 1:24:21]. Jonathan Aiwazian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aiwazian/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their wonderful, virile support. In no particular order they are:  the mighty OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re gaining tier-1 operators all the time. The proof really is in the pudding, and OddsMatrix is sweet.Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that take away the pain. Or create it, I forget which. Oh, and tell them you came via us and you get your first month free!Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo (January ’26 in Barcelona) and iGB Live! in London. We love you guys bigger than the sky, all of you! 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/3A57jkRSubscribe 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/

HOLAAAAAAA and willkommen! First up there is some stuff and meandering nonsense with longtime host Jon and interim co-host Harry C Lang [0:00 – 20:53], in the midst of which Jon tells you how awesome the sponsors are (OddsMatrix, Optimove and Clarion Gaming – all absolute titans in their respective fields).Then Jon is joined by the excellent Brandie E Black, of Brand E Media fame and the recently-launched ESGiGaming.com. We discuss the evolution of content creation in the gambling industry, the impact of AI on quality, and the importance of authenticity in storytelling. Brandy shares her journey in the iGaming sector, her sustainability initiatives, and the role of ESG in shaping the future of gambling. The conversation also touches on community impact, accountability in business, and the need for human oversight in AI-generated content.Choice quotes: "AI content creation has led to a decline in quality.""Quality over quantity is essential in content creation."Brandie E Black on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandieeblack/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their support. In no particular order they are:  the mighty OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re gaining tier-1 operators all the time. The proof really is in the pudding, and OddsMatrix is sweet.Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that take away the pain. Or create it, I forget which. Oh, and tell them you came via us and you get your first month free!Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo (January ’26 in Barcelona) and iGB Live! in London. We love you guys bigly, all of you! 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/3A57jkRSubscribe 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: a...

First, ignore what Jon says. It's definitely episode 218.So we kick off with stand-in (interim?) co-host Harry Lang and here-all-too-often Jon Bruford discussing sports tourism, exercise, crime in Shropshire, and much much more [0:00 – 34.51]. Then they’re joined by the excellent and super-smart Jonathan Michaels, principal and founder of Michaels Strategies, to discuss: watches, Eton vs Harrow, Michael Caine and The Rock being the same kind of actor, the merits of Jason Statham movies, Jon’s awful wetsuit story, moobs and more. Oh, and in an industry sense, we also talk about sweeps casinos, taxes being capped instead of rising forever, gambling losses as a tax issues in the US, and what the industry might be able to do better regarding payments [34:52 – 1:08:54]. Then we have a commercial break and the episode resumes at [1:09:01 – 1:46:54].Jonathan Michaels on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-michaels-77461013/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their support. In no particular order they are:  the mighty OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re gaining tier-1 operators all the time. The proof really is in the pudding, and OddsMatrix is sweet.Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses work better. Optimove,your support helps us make things that take away the pain. Or create it, I forget which. Oh, and tell them you came via us and you get your first month free!Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo (January ’26 in Barcelona) and iGB Live! in London. We love you guys, all of you! 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/3A57jkRSubscribe 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...

Welcome to another information-packed episode of the industry’s number one podcast. Of course, that depends on what metric you’re using but we’re definitely number one by our measurement methods. And we’re not using any bots to boost traffic, so there’s that.We kick off with Fintan and Jon talking smack, getting into watches and their executive status, mental health, status symbols in travel and much more. You know the drill [0:00 – 30:55].Then Jon meets guest Sam Jones, and Fintan will be kicking himself for missing this one. Sam is an entrepreneur and founder of 155.io, a company supplying ‘chaos events’ as gambling opportunities. So this is real-world events like rubber duck races, stair pong, all manner of things with variable outcomes and it’s proper genius. Sam gets into how they arrived at race lengths, worked the courses, all of it, and it’s fascinating. As a growing industry sector, this is going places, and 155.io is going to be right at the front of the charge. Sam shares insights into the future of the gambling industry, the challenges of compliance, and the exciting new game concepts they are developing. The discussion highlights the potential for growth in alternative betting markets and the unique appeal of their offerings.Choice quote: "Simplicity is the key."Sam Jones on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-jones-0a16533/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their support. In no particular order they are:  the mighty OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re gaining tier-1 operators all the time. The proof really is in the pudding, and OddsMatrix is sweet.Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that take away the pain. Or create it, I forget which. Oh, and tell them you came via us and you get your first month free!Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo (January ’26 in Barcelona) and iGB Live! in London. We love you guys, all of you! 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/3A57jkRSubscribe 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:

There’s an intro, with some waffling, most likely, with Fintan and Jon. But then we get to the meat of the episode…In yet another wildly engaging conversation, gambling industry royalty Ian Sherrington shares his journey in the world of iGaming, detailing his early fascination with gambling, his programming career, and the pivotal moments that led to the establishment of the first online sportsbook. The discussion also explores the unique blend of intelligence and imagination required for innovation in technology and gambling and as ever, much more. Ian Sherrington on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-sherrington/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their support. In no particular order they are:  Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that take away the pain. Or create it, I forget which. Oh, and tell them you came via us and you get your first month free!Then of course there is the mighty OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re gaining tier-1 operators all the time. The proof really is in the pudding, and OddsMatrix is sweet.Clarion Gaming are last but certainly not least, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. We love you guys, all of you! 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/3A57jkRSubscribe 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/

In this engaging conversation, Richard Logan, Head of Operations at Clarion Gaming, shares insights into the complexities of managing large-scale events like iGB LIVE! and ICE Barcelona. He discusses the challenges of moving events to new venues, the importance of attendee experience, and the role of technology in event planning. Richard emphasises the need for effective navigation and flow within event spaces, as well as the significance of feedback and continuous improvement. The conversation also touches on personal anecdotes and the lighter side of event management [05:04 - 45:50].Choice quotes:"It's all fairly idiot proof." "I'm not a Wi-Fi technician." "You need to remap everything."Richard Logan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-logan-21650686/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their support. In no particular order they are:  Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that take away the pain. Or create it, I forget which. Oh, and tell them you came via us and you get your first month free! Then of course there is the mighty OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re gaining tier-1 operators all the time. The proof really is in the pudding, and OddsMatrix is sweet.Clarion Gaming are last but certainly not least, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. We love you guys, all of you!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/3A57jkRSubscribe 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:

First up, we are graced by the presence of top gambling industry executive Fintan Costello, who somehow successfully guesses the kind of watch Jon wants to buy – seriously, it's a bit freaky – and we talk about time mastery, which is better late than never [0:00 – 13:54].Then Jon is joined by Northridge Law's superstar partner Melanie Ellis, who discusses the current state of UK gambling regulations, including updates on the long-awaited white paper, the challenges surrounding affordability checks, and the implications of credit card bans. The conversation also touches on changes in casino regulations and the overall impact on the gambling industry. Melanie provides insights into the regulatory landscape and the need for clarity in the rules governing operators [13:55 – 1:01:49].Melanie Ellis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-ellis/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their support. In no particular order they are:  Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that take away the pain. Or create it, I forget which. Oh, and tell them you came via us and you get your first month free!Then of course there is the mighty OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re gaining tier-1 operators all the time. The proof really is in the pudding, and OddsMatrix is sweet.Clarion Gaming are last but certainly not least, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and the upcoming iGB Live! in London this July. We love you guys, all of you! 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/3A57jkRSubscribe 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:

In this episode of the Gambling Files podcast, we kick off with hosts Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello in a lively discussion covering various topics ‘related’ to the gambling industry. They explore personal anecdotes, regulatory challenges, market dynamics, and the importance of accountability within organizations. The conversation also touches on sponsorships, innovations in the market, and much more [0:00 – 37:11].Then they’re joined by none other than the Ginger Prince, iGB’s Kyle Goldsmith who’s here to talk up his epic new report on Brazil’s burgeoning gambling market (you can get free access to the report here). He explains the topsy-turvy nature of this beast, and highlights some of the issues and the progress that has been made in recent months. We talk about new regulations, the impact of advertising restrictions, and the dynamics of the illegal market, plus key findings related to KYC regulations and the public perception of gambling. The discussion also touches on the future of land-based gambling, tax structures, and the evolving preferences of Brazilian gamblers [37:12 – 1:20:55]. Choice quotes:"You're going to start.""What do regulators do all day?""It's the same shit again.""It's a bit of a weird one.""I think the general feeling is ‘happy’.""It's still 43% though. It's still big."Kyle Goldsmith on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-goldsmith/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their support. In no particular order they are:  Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that take away the pain. Or create it, I forget which. Oh, and tell them you came via us and you get your first month free! Then of course there is the mighty OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re gaining tier-1 operators all the time. The proof really is in the pudding, and OddsMatrix is sweet.Clarion Gaming are last but certainly not least, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and the upcoming iGB Live! in London this July. We love you guys, all of you! 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/3A57jkRSubscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn:

Another bumper episode! So we kick off with Jon and Fintan talking about stuff and things [0:00 – 16:48], followed by the last of the interviews from Jon’s recent trip to EveryMatrix towers and a chat with Friend of the Podcast Mark Schmidt [16:49 – 37:35]. And that thing about the Eye of Sauron? Obviously it’s a joke…Our headline act though is (are?) Lorraine Perrons and Claire Jones, co-founders of Gambling Recovery Therapy and Gambling Recovery for All CIC. They discuss their personal journeys that led them to create a unique approach to gambling recovery, emphasising holistic healing and individualised support. We explore the challenges faced in the gambling recovery landscape, the importance of funding and accessibility, and the need for collaboration within the community to effectively support those affected by gambling addiction. Lorraine and Claire discuss the challenges and strategies in the field of gambling recovery therapy, the importance of making their voices heard, the need for better funding, and the systemic issues surrounding gambling addiction. The conversation also touches on the necessity for transparency in financial systems and the importance of education in mental health awareness [37:36 – 1:21:57]. Choice quotes: "I was married to a gambling addict""We want people to uncover who they are""How do you make your voices heard?""The messaging is fucked up.""It's the transparency that matters."Gambling Recovery Therapy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gamblingrecoverytherapy/Mark Schmidt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-schmidt-aa27398b/As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their support. In no particular order they are:  Optimove, who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that take away the pain. Or create it, I forget which. Oh, and tell them you came via us and you get your first month free!Then of course there is the mighty OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re gaining tier-1 operators all the time. The proof really is in the pudding, and OddsMatrix is sweet. Clarion Gaming are last but certainly not least, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and the upcoming iGB Live! in London this July. We love you guys, all of you! 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/3A57jkRSubscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube:

In no way is this week’s episode a nod to our corporate overlords in any way, shape or form.That said, first up in this episode there’s a brief chat between Fintan and Jon [0:00 – 10:22], followed by another interview from Jon’s recent visit to Everymatrix’s shiny new London offices, this time with Russell Colvin, Commercial Director, and Mark Wilson, Head of Trading, to talk about the FSB acquisition and more. Jon finds out why they bought FSB then built their own solution, because you’ve got to ask, am I right? [10:23 – 21:50]Then the hosts welcome Rony Vexelman, VP of Marketing at OptiMove, to discuss their new product, Optimove Engage, designed for modern marketers. The conversation explores the challenges of content creation and management in marketing, the role of AI in optimising marketing efforts, and the importance of maintaining brand consistency across customer journeys. Rony emphasizes the need for quality control in marketing automation and shares best practices for leveraging AI effectively. We get into the importance of customer engagement and optimisation in marketing, introducing Ignite+, a program designed to support emerging operators in the iGaming industry. The discussion emphasises the need for personalisation in CRM strategies while also addressing the philosophical implications of reducing individuals to mere data points. The conversation concludes with reflections on the human element in digital interactions and the importance of community in business.Choice quotes: "Creating content is no longer the problem.""Quality control on steroids.""Trust but verify, as Reagan said.""We believe we can help them come and grow.""This is how we're going to do it.""The King's English is way behind…""You got honey trapped, mate."Russell Colvin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russellcolvin/Mark Wilson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-wilson-b1778763/Rony Vexelman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronyvexelman/As ever, we thank Optimove for their support, which helps us to keep this podcast ticking over. They turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that take away the pain. Or create it, I forget which. Oh, and tell them you came via us and you get your first month free! The cool kids of the podcast are of course OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, every guy wants to be them… and so does every girl.Clarion Gaming are last but certainly not least, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and the upcoming iGB Live! in London this July. We love you guys, all of you! 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:

In the intro for this episode, we get Jon’s recent interview with Richardt Funch, EveryMatrix’s global commercial director, which was done during the visit to the opening of the firm’s new London offices. It’s worth a listen by itself [0:00 – 20:14], but honestly when we package it with the main event it’s an irresistible bundle of joy!Our guest this week is the brilliant Steve McAllister who joins us to discuss the current state of the gaming industry in Canada, focusing on the regulatory changes in Ontario and anticipated developments in Alberta. We explore the impact of these changes on operators and players, the booming market in Ontario, and the role of charitable gaming. The discussion also touches on emerging trends and challenges within the industry, highlighting the dynamic nature of gaming regulation and market competition. We get into the evolving landscape of the gambling industry, focusing on legal battles, the integration of cryptocurrency, advertising strategies, and public perception. The speakers discuss the implications of legal resources in gambling disputes, the challenges and opportunities presented by cryptocurrency, and the impact of advertising on consumer attitudes towards gambling. They also explore the future of gambling media and regulation, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to advertising and responsible gambling messaging.Richardt Funch on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardt-funch-7374882/Steve McAllister on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-mcallister-011a1213/ As ever, we thank Optimove for their support, which helps us to keep this podcast ticking over. They turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that take away the pain. Or create it, I forget which.The cool kids of the podcast are of course OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re turning heads every time they walk in the room…Clarion Gaming are last but certainly not least, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and the upcoming iGB Live! in London this July. We love you guys, all of you!  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/3A57jkRSubscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast Fintan Costello on LinkedIn:

Fintan’s here! And he’s mocking Jon’s weight! The chaps talk about the wonderful term kummerspeck, which apparently translates from German as ‘grief bacon’, and it's something Jon's been enjoying a little too much. Also, as usual we talk about lots of other things too [0:00 – 18:43]. Our returning guest, Legal Gaming’s Antti Koivula, discusses the evolving landscape of Finnish gambling legislation, highlighting the current status of regulatory changes, the rarity of prohibition orders, and the implications of marketing restrictions. He emphasizes the challenges posed by taxation laws on gambling winnings and the limited enforcement capabilities against black market operations. The discussion provides insights into the complexities of regulating gambling in Finland and the potential impact on operators and players alike. We also get into tax implications for players, marketing restrictions, the role of influencers, and the future of Veikkaus amid new competition [18:44 – 1:04:05].Choice quotes: "Finns still lose a lot of money on gambling.""Crypto money just becomes better for me to keep gambling.""Anti-social-media concept in Finnish gambling.""Influencers are prohibited on their own social media channels.""Player acquisition costs will be interesting to see.""It will be a good time to be a newspaper, TV channel, or radio station."Antti on LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/koivula-antti/https://legal-gaming.com/As ever, we thank Optimove for their support, which helps us to keep this podcast ticking over. They turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses work better. Optimove, your support helps us make things that take away the pain. Or create it, I forget which.The cool kids of the podcast are of course OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re turning heads every time they walk in the room…Clarion Gaming are last but certainly not least, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and the upcoming iGB Live! in London this July. We love you guys, all of you! 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/3A57jkRSubscribe 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: a...