MaxBet Podcast

Whether you're deep in the game or just gaming-curious, this podcast is for you. MaxBet is the #1 podcast in gaming and the longest running B2B show in the industry. Hosted by Hillary McAfee, the podcast brings you real conversations with the people shaping this business; executives, insiders, and the occasional legend. It’s not formal, it’s not scripted, and it’s definitely not stuffy. Just sharp takes, bold ideas, and behind the scenes stories from the gaming world. You'll hear from industry insiders, executives, and gaming legends, giving you a front-row seat (metaphorically, because we don’t actually know you) to the bold moves, big ideas, and behind-the-scenes stories defining the industry. It’s a unique blend of business know-how, consumer perspective, and unfiltered commentary on what’s really happening in the gaming world.

True Persistence Slots and Advantage Players: The Casino Industry Red Flag

Ari Mizrachi is back and standing on business in this episode on true persistence games and advantage slot play. His first appearance in October was one of our most successful and most controversial episodes. Now, Ari returns to share where we are at now and break down why he believes advantage play is detrimental to every facet of the slot economy: operators, suppliers, and players alike. From the economics of advantage slots to the ripple effects across casinos, Ari does not hold back. To close, he delivers his next red-flag warning, a prediction he believes could become the next major threat to the casino industry. Love it or hate it, this is the conversation the gaming industry needs.

09-04
35:00

5 Years of MaxBet with Mike: Favorite Guests, Moments & What’s Ahead | S7E1

Mike is officially signing off after five years behind the MaxBet mic. In this farewell episode, we cover it all. Favorite guests, biggest learnings, funny moments, and the interviews that still get talked about years later. Before he steps away, we talk about what is coming next as Hillary takes the lead and continues building the MaxBet brand. It is a sendoff packed with stories, laughs, and a proper MaxBet vibe from start to finish.

08-26
31:55

Brand Building and Having Fun with Heather Lee

In this episode of the MaxBet Podcast, host Mike McKiski welcomes Heather Lee, a branding and marketing expert, to discuss the vital elements of personal and company brand building, as well as navigating career transitions. Whether you're looking to enhance your personal brand, elevate your company's presence, or switch careers entirely, Heather shares invaluable insights and actionable strategies from her own personal journey to help you stand out in a competitive landscape. Discover how to leverage your unique strengths and create a brand narrative that resonates with your audience. Tune in now to unlock the secrets of effective branding and career growth! Don’t forget to subscribe to the MaxBet Podcast for more expert insights and inspiration for your professional journey!

09-30
34:42

Elevating Game Design with Innovation: A Chat with Mike Brennan of Bluberi

Join host Mike McKiski on this exciting episode of the MaxBet Podcast as he welcomes Mike Brennan, Chief Product Officer at Bluberi. Together, they dive deep into the world of game design, discussing the latest trends and innovations that are shaping the gaming industry. In this episode, you'll discover: The Future of Game Development: Mike Brennan shares his insights on emerging technologies and how they influence gameplay. Creative Strategies: Learn how Bluberi is pushing the envelope with unique game concepts that engage players. Industry Challenges: Hear about the current challenges facing game designers and how to overcome them. Player Engagement: Discover effective techniques to enhance player experience and retention in an ever-competitive market. Whether you’re a gaming enthusiast, a budding developer, or an industry veteran, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn from one of the leading voices in the gaming world! 🔗 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform! Keywords: MaxBet Podcast, Mike McKiski, Mike Brennan, Bluberi, game design, gaming innovation, player engagement, game development trends, industry challenges. Subscribe and leave us a review to help us reach more gaming enthusiasts!

09-26
42:10

Cashless Conversations #1- Ft. Gary Ellis, Marker Trax CEO

In the first “Cashless Conversation” presented by Marker Trax, CEO Gary Ellis and Marketing Executive Anamarie Ellis join the podcast to discuss the inspiration behind Marker Trax, why cashless gaming is important for everyone, and share some fun inside stories from one of gaming’s top families! 

05-30
51:36

Behind The Money - Ft. Joel Simkins

In this episode, Joel Simkins, Managing Director - Head of Gaming & Leisure Investment Banking at Truist, joins the boys to discuss what an investment banker actually does, how going against the pack can be the path to notoriety, and what it feels like being a CEO Whisperer...

05-03
46:18

Gift&Go - Ft. Joe Hall and Jon Reuben

In this episode, we delve into the captivating tale of how a basic poker card protector evolved into a multinational casino gifting empire. Delve into the impact of artificial intelligence and data strategy on the future of gifting, and grasp why casinos should view their gifting initiatives as immersive experiences, not just channels for dispersing branded bagel slicers. Join Landon and Mike as they chat with Gift & Go co-founders Jon Reuben and Joe Hall, who journeyed across the Atlantic to share their insights. Don't miss this enlightening conversation!

05-01
45:43

Cashless Conversations - Ft. Brian Green & Charlie Skinner

Join us for an insightful discussion with Brian Green, COO of Graton Casino, and Charlie Skinner, President of Marker Trax, as they delve into the world of cashless gaming. Discover firsthand from an industry operator who has successfully integrated cashless technology onto their gaming floor. Gain valuable insights into the benefits of embracing new technology and its impact on the gaming experience.

03-01
01:08:19

Easy Money - Ft. Christopher Justice

In this engaging episode, Chris Justice, the visionary CEO of Pavilion Payments, brings more than just cigars and cookies to the podcast—he shares a wealth of infinite wisdom. Join Mike and Landon as they delve into Chris's vision to simplify the transition to a cashless society. Chris discusses how he believes leveraging broad market consumer technology can rapidly enhance the casino cashless experience. Along the journey, he candidly recounts both the triumphs and challenges that have shaped his perspective. Tune in for a captivating conversation on the future of cashless transactions and the technological innovations driving change.

12-15
57:23

Betting on AI - Ft. Kiran Kiran Brahmandam

In this episode, we are joined by Kiran Brahmandam, the CEO of Gaming Analytics. Together, we explore the cutting-edge advancements in the application of artificial intelligence to casino data. Kiran sheds light on how casinos can harness the power of AI tools to enhance and optimize the player experience, all while sharing his visionary dreams for the future of this transformative technology. Join us as we dive into the exciting world of AI in the casino industry.

10-25
59:21

Cashless Conversations - Ft Carol Thompson & Charlie Skinner

Join us for our latest Cashless Conversation, proudly sponsored by Marker Trax! In this engaging discussion, we're delighted to welcome Carol Thompson, CMO of Marker Trax, and Charlie Skinner, President of Marker Trax, as they share their remarkable journey towards making casino credit accessible to all. Discover their insights into the future of cashless transactions and get an exclusive first look at the unveiling of their new product brand, poised to streamline the experience for casinos utilizing their player credit system. Don't miss this exciting conversation that promises to shape the future of gaming!

10-02
01:02:47

Sci Play - Ft. Cam Stewart and Kelly Track

In this episode Cameron Stewart, Group Vice President of US Games, and Kelly Trask, Director of Slot Performance & Strategy for SciPlay join the podcast to discuss the latest trends in social gaming, how they are leveraging the power of social gaming data to build better land-based, real money slot machines, and issue the craziest challenge in the history of the MaxBet Podcast!! 

08-28
57:45

Cashless Conversations - Ft. Justin Moore

Join us for an engaging discussion in the latest installment of Cashless Conversation, brought to you by Marker Trax. In this episode, we're thrilled to host Justin Moore, a seasoned veteran of the casino industry. Tune in as Justin delves into his wealth of experience in choosing cashless gaming partners, sheds light on his anticipated trends propelling the gaming industry forward, and treats us to captivating anecdotes from his time at the helm of a Philadelphia casino. Don't miss out on this insightful exchange that offers a unique glimpse into the evolving world of cashless gaming and casino management.

08-22
47:34

Life Changing Events - FT. Landon and Mike

Join Mike and Landon in this exciting episode filled with major life updates (spoiler alert: there are tons!) as they delve into fascinating discussions on the profound influence of AI on our world. Get ready to explore some wild and creative applications of ChatGPT that will leave you in awe. But that's not all—be sure not to miss the heartwarming moments as Mike provides Landon with the much-needed big brotherly advice. Tune in now to catch all the excitement!

08-02
34:33

Cashless Conversations 2 - Ft. Omar Sattar & Gary Larkin

In our next “Cashless Conversation” presented by Marker Trax, Omer Sattar, co-CEO of Sightline Payments, and Gary Larkin, President of Koin Payments join the podcast to discuss the progress made along the road to cashless in the gaming industry today, what lies ahead as we strive for greater cashless adoption in the gambling business, and they each share some helpful insights on how to get started in cashless if you’re not yet in the game!

06-28
01:00:53

Wizard Of Odds - Ft. Michael Shackleford

In this episode Michael Shackleford, aka “The Wizard of Odds”, famed table game mathematician and author joins the podcast to discuss how a baby name website influenced his casino website start, some tips on how to win at the tables, and teases his new book which will help players take on the house!

06-19
01:05:39

Chip Chat - Ft. Bennie Mancino

In this episode Bennie Mancino, Director of Table Games at Presque Isle Downs & Casino and host of the “B in the Know” YouTube Vlog, joins the show to share some table game operations best practices, what he is most looking forward to in the future, and shares quite a few fun stories from his days working at Hard Rock Las Vegas. 

05-15
01:00:33

Stack the Deck

In this episode David Gill, Area Vice President at Technologent, joins the podcast to discuss the latest trends in technology innovation, some ways to fight the never-ending cyber security attacks, and shares how some of the tricks he has learned as a World Champion Black Belt in Jiu Jitsu has helped accelerate his success in business.

04-27
52:03

Tables of the Future - Ft. Ari Mizrachi

In this episode Ari Mizrachi, Sr. Vice President and Head of North American Business at Tangam Systems joins the podcast to discuss his history as a professional Jai Alai player, how his lifelong love of gambling lead him to a career in table games, and offers some key insights on how he believes data will influence the future of the casino industry. 

04-05
59:55

Progress With Vision - Ft. Siobhan Lane

In this episode Siobhán Lane, Chief Executive Officer - Gaming at Light & Wonder joins the podcast to discuss her first 180 days on the job, how she manages to balance the demands of a high powered job and a high powered family, and gives us some advice on how we can make the workplace a better place for everyone. 

03-23
48:37

Recommend Channels