The Gambling Files

Hosted by Jon Buford & Fintan Costello

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Aug 2026

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About the show

The global gambling industry is fast moving and always changing, staying on top of things is hard for industry professionals. Join Jon Bruford (21 years covering the casino industry) and Fintan Costello (CEO at BonusFinder.com) each week as they discuss with leading international experts the latest issues within the gambling industry. If you want to stay up to date with the gambling industry and have a laugh along the way, then this is the show for you!

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September 10, 202650 min

RTFM 276: Hizi, a new self-service operating system for studios

In this episode of the industry's shiniest five-year-old podcast, Robert Lenzhofer discusses the innovative Hizi platform, a self-service operating system for iGaming studios that simplifies game development, deployment, and management, aiming to revolutionize the industry with cloud-based solutions. Hosts Fintan Costello and Jon Bruford welcome Robert – a returning guest! – as they discuss the usual mish-mash of topics alongside Robert’s innovation. As ever, we thank our superb sponsors – you can find out more about Optimove, World Gaming, and GLI further down this page… Choice quotes: "This is more like an operating system for studios" "Allows you to create any RNG game directly in the back office" "It's like AWS for the gambling industry" “The RGS all grown up. The operating system for studios.” “If you still have to code into the backend, then it’s not self-service.” “We just give you the best tool that possibly can be built.” Chapters (but add 30 seconds or so because of our beautiful music, which is copyright Mara Carlyle…) 00:00 - Opening banter and the challenge of recording multiple episodes 01:02 - Moving house, lampshades, and the magnetic knife rack 03:18 - Holiday talk, hustle culture, and the death of downtime 04:04 - The world’s best theme park in Devon: Diggerland, and possibly the best jingle for a theme park ever. 10:29 - Robert’s summer chaos and building a point-and-click adventure with his daughter 12:20 - Introducing Robert Lenzhofer and the move beyond Holle Games 13:01 - What Hizi means and why it is about more than an RGS 14:43 - What the platform is for in practical studio terms 15:48 - Why RGS infrastructure should be treated like a commodity 16:29 - Self-service signup and instant dedicated instances 18:14 - Pricing tiers and what’s included in the basic package 19:20 - The no-code, AI-assisted Hizi engine 21:02 - Early traction, partner growth, and game deployments 23:36 - What studios actually do inside the platform 24:34 - Why billing and back-office tooling matter for small teams 26:15 - Migration paths for existing studios and hybrid deployments 27:40 - How Hizi compares with Stake’s model and game-upload systems 29:00 - The “end of RGS” idea and B2C engine support 31:12 - Could a simple card game or pub machine be built on Hizi? 33:15 - How the platform reduces startup friction and contract pain 35:07 - What onboarding looks like and the learning curve 36:06 - Why Hizi’s challenge is broader than a single-operator system 37:43 - Scaling with a lean team and moving from beta to wider onboarding 41:39 - Distribution as the bottleneck for smaller studios 44:05 - Starting a game studio and the “Doctor Hour” joke 45:16 - Bamboo Guerillas arrives 47:56 - Closing thanks and an invitation to revisit the project in 12 months Robert on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertlenzhofer/ Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.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/

September 3, 20261 hr 8 min

RTFM 275: Deal Me Out’s Jordan Lea talks about everything, and more

In this episode, Jordan Lea from Deal Me Out discusses the evolving landscape of gambling regulation, black market impacts, prediction markets, and industry challenges. We explore how regulation, industry reputation, and consumer safety are interconnected and what future steps are needed. This episode is brought to you thanks to the auspices of our Mighty Sponsors: GLI , Optimove , and World Gaming . More on their magnificence after the bit where you can see what’s in the podcast. Things we talk about, but in a sexy list: Gambling regulation and its evolution Impact of black market gambling on the industry Prediction markets and their perception as safer alternatives Industry reputation and media portrayal of gambling Regulatory challenges and government engagement Black market gambling's influence on consumer behaviour Strategies for industry self-regulation and public trust The role of education and community engagement in harm prevention Future trends in gambling technology and regulation The importance of industry unity and advocacy Choice quotes: "The industry has improved significantly over the years" "Illegal gambling is a growing problem we must address" "Prediction markets are being mistaken for safer alternatives" Chapters – but add 30 seconds or so because of our beautiful music, which the rights holder – Mara Carlyle – has allowed us to use: 0:01 — Intro and film chat 1:10 — John’s cinema rundown 3:09 — Nirvanna the Band, the Show, the Movie 5:52 — Catching up and sponsor banter 8:00 — Fintan’s podcast charts success 9:39 — GLI sponsor read 11:00 — Guest intro: Jordan Lea from Deal Me Out 14:06 — What Deal Me Out does 15:19 — Funding changes and shifting priorities 16:17 — Pivot to illegal gambling 19:15 — Offshore vs licensed markets 23:57 — First report findings 27:12 — Youth gambling, gaming, and Roblox 31:12 — Second report findings 34:09 — Regulation, taxation, and industry politics 37:11 — Why the industry isn’t the only messenger 42:24 — What the industry should do differently 46:29 — Grassroots brand building and good causes 48:15 — Media narratives and image change 52:25 — Prediction markets and investment behaviour 57:49 — What young people are seeing 60:29 — What Deal Me Out is doing next 64:31 — Parliament and industry representation 66:01 — Where to find Deal Me Out Jordan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-l-6160391b9/ Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.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/

August 27, 20261 hr 12 min

RTFM 274: Staicy.win’s Ryan Robey talks AI-driven sports betting and more

Just Jon in the driving seat this episode, so what could possibly go wrong? He’s joined by Ryan Robey from Staicy.win , who shares insights into AI-driven sports betting, community building, and the US gambling landscape. Discover how data, human oversight, and community engagement are transforming betting strategies and industry perceptions. This episode is brought to you by the titans at Gaming Laboratories International , Optimove , and World Gaming , plus the letters X and T, and the number 28 . Stuff we talk about, in list form: AI-driven sports betting models Community building in betting platforms Data sources and analytics in sports predictions Human oversight and AI collaboration US gambling laws and market dynamics Arbitrage betting and market edges Community engagement and social aspects of betting Impact of sports events like World Cup on betting trends Choice quotes: "We identify where Vegas is lagging behind" "Our community is what sets us apart" "All the colour in bourbon comes from the wood" “The reason that people go to sports bars is not because they have this burning desire to go spend money to do something they could otherwise do for free. They do it because they love community.” Chapters, but add 40 seconds maybe because of our beautiful music: 00:00 - Fintan’s new podcast and today’s sponsor rundown 02:27 - Why Optimove and GLI are supporting the show 05:00 - Introducing Ryan Robey and Staicy.win 06:38 - Why the company spelling includes an “I” for AI 07:35 - How Staicy.win builds betting predictions from data and models 09:40 - Arbitrage betting versus finding real edge in player props 11:40 - Where the data comes from: Stat feeds, betting lines, and APIs 15:08 - Why human oversight still matters in an AI betting platform 17:08 - Building guardrails around a custom betting LLM 18:24 - The team behind Staicy.win and why Ryan avoids “goobers” 24:12 - Strange office interactions and the Delaware mailbox story 26:11 - How the subscription model works and where the revenue comes from 28:09 - From crypto community project to a real betting business 31:21 - Transparency, ROI, and why community is the core differentiator 36:03 - World Cup betting, Spain futures, and soccer learning curves 39:01 - Leicester City in Vegas and the power of sports fandom 43:40 - Scottish supporters, St. Patrick’s Day, and sports-bar chaos 45:18 - Ryan’s day job as a trial lawyer in Lexington, Kentucky 49:28 - A courtroom case involving a horse-drawn carriage in a Christmas parade 51:35 - Bourbon, Kentucky, and the difference between whiskey and bourbon 56:27 - Why lawyers hate John Grisham and legal fiction gets law wrong 61:17 - How Grisham may have changed the portrayal of lawyers in media 64:14 - Gambling stigma, legal betting, and the US college sports problem 67:44 - College player props, integrity concerns, and Kentucky’s rules 69:05 - Getting into the Apple App Store and coming back during football season 70:19 - Closing thoughts on disappointing your family and trial catchphrases Ryan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-robey-3b092356/ Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.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/

August 20, 20261 hr 16 min

RTFM 273: DEDPRZ’s Nick Papagorgio on the future of casino content, and much, much more

In this episode, Nick Papagorgio, CEO of DEDPRZ Casino, shares insights into the world of crypto gambling, the importance of player trust, and the future of online casinos. Discover how innovative strategies and community engagement are shaping the industry. Hosts Fintan Costello and Jon Bruford explore the evolving landscape of gambling streaming, the challenges of streamer marketing, and innovative approaches to engaging audiences in the gambling industry. Our guest Nick shares insights on responsible gaming, licensing, and the future of casino content. Stuff we talk about, but in a list: Crypto casino licensing and regulation Player trust and community engagement Use of NFTs and blockchain technology Impact of AI and provably fair systems Future trends in online gambling The evolution of gambling streaming and its impact Challenges of streamer marketing and fake statistics Building long-term relationships with streamers Legal and licensing considerations in different markets Responsible gaming tools and player protection Innovative casino game development and provably fair systems The potential of private tables and unique dealer content The role of energy and entertainment in casino streams Choice quotes: "Streaming slots is quite compelling" "Gambling streamers now make more than athletes" "Gambling streaming is like a mind sport" Chapters, but add 30 seconds or so because of our lovely music: 00:00 - Cold open and banter 03:04 - Weight loss, gym talk, and summer energy 09:08 - Optimove sponsor read 12:41 - GLI sponsor read and guest intro 15:55 - DEDPRZ Casino origin story 18:02 - Crypto, fiat, and licensing 21:03 - Building trust in a crypto casino 23:38 - Support, payouts, and player experience 29:54 - What makes DEDPRZ different 38:06 - Why gambling streams work 46:24 - How Nick vets streamers 55:52 - Responsible gambling tools and self-exclusion 58:52 - Nick’s recovery story 66:21 - Streaming as a business model 73:33 - Closing thoughts and wrap-up Nick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-papagorgio-38b2b6274/ Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.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/

August 13, 20261 hr 1 min

RTFM 272: Simon Mach talks crypto ‘signals’ and more

Oh man, if ever there was an episode where you need Fintan, it’s this one. But alas, he is away doing things that no doubt Jon would barely comprehend. So, in this episode, Jon meets Simon Mach (in unconnected news, Jon is soon changing his name to Max Power), CEO of MyCryptoParadise. Simon shares insights into crypto trading signals, market analysis, and the psychology behind crypto trading. We explore how risk management, belief, and market manipulation influence cryptocurrency volatility and trader behaviour, and more. Things we talk about, but in a list: Crypto trading signals and their components Risk management and trade planning in crypto Market influence factors: liquidity, belief, and manipulation Psychological aspects: FOMO, anxiety, and discipline Regulation and its impact on crypto legitimacy Choice quotes: "Risk first, trade second." "Crypto value is based on belief." "FOMO influences all aspects of life." Chapters, but add 30 seconds because of our beautiful music: 00:00 Introduction to Simon Mach and MyCryptoParadise 07:04 What Are Crypto Trading Signals and How Are They Used? 14:08 Factors Influencing Crypto Volatility and Market Manipulation 22:09 The Role of Belief and Liquidity in Crypto Prices 29:56 Psychological Factors: FOMO, Anxiety, and Emotional Discipline 42:58 Why Crypto Is Different from Traditional Currencies 56:09 Crypto Regulation and Its Future Impact 01:00:02 Closing Remarks and How to Connect with Simon Mach Simon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-mach-38299033a/ Website - https://mycryptoparadise.com YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@MyCryptoParadise Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.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/

August 6, 202654 min

RTFM 271: Noah Rafkin introduces Bonus Bandit – pushing for sweeps transparency

So, we got an email from some dude saying hey, I want to come on the podcast, I’ve got a story to tell… And he did! Noah Rafkin had a great idea for a website, it works as both information and a unique (we think, anyway) affiliate experience for players; it’s all good. So Noah tells us about Bonus Bandit, shares insights into the sweepstakes industry, transparency issues, and how data can empower consumers. We discover how his platform aims to protect players and promote industry accountability. This episode is brought to you by our partners GLI , Optimove , and Clarion Ga World Gaming . We love you. More on this love further down… Things we talk about, in a list: Sweepstakes industry transparency Data-driven trust scores for gambling sites Consumer protection in online gambling The architecture of sweepstakes sites and LLCs Impact of regulation on gambling operators Chapters, but add a good 40 seconds because of our gorgeous music (Bowlface en Provence, by the unique Mara Carlyle) 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:00 Meet Noah Rafkin, founder of Bonus Bandit 02:04 Sponsors and sponsorship messages 04:54 The origin story of Bonus Bandit 07:05 The importance of trust and transparency in gambling 08:54 How Noah started in the sweepstakes industry 11:05 The methodology behind Bonus Bandit's trust scores 12:57 The role of news and public sentiment in site evaluation 14:54 Open data and transparency in the industry 17:03 Criteria used to assess sweepstakes sites 19:03 Common issues in redemption and verification processes 21:02 The impact of reviews and public sentiment analysis 23:09 The architecture of LLCs and site networks 25:07 Regulation, transparency, and industry challenges 27:08 The real-time data updates and industry relevance 29:05 Customer experience issues and site practices 31:02 The problem with site opacity and LLC structures 32:59 Industry regulation and site accountability 35:08 The profitability of honest gambling sites 36:52 The proliferation of sister sites and shell companies 38:53 Data privacy laws and site compliance 40:54 The story of site LLCs and opacity 42:49 Industry regulation, lawsuits, and site networks 45:01 Initial impact and user feedback on Bonus Bandit 46:50 The future of transparency and industry influence 48:45 Industry accountability, good practices, and consumer trust 50:59 Closing remarks and industry outlook The Wyoming Papers: https://bonusbandit.win/a1-utech-sweepstakes-network/ Bonus Bandit on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bonus-bandit/ Bonus Bandit in the wild: https://bonusbandit.win/ Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.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/

July 30, 20261 hr 8 min

RTFM 270: Mel Ellis on strife and palavers in the UK

Another sooper-dooper episode of the gambling industry’s most-tolerated podcast. Hurrah! In this episode, Jon Bruford is joined by Northridge Law’s Melanie Ellis to delve into UK gambling regulations, industry changes, and the impact of recent policy shifts. They also touch on personal stories, societal issues, and the future of gambling oversight. This episode might mark a new record too, as they manage to make it to around 28 minutes before they actually talk about gambling… What we talk about in a list but not in order: UK gambling regulation updates Impact of recent policy changes on industry Personal stories and societal issues in gambling Future trends in gambling oversight Industry challenges and opportunities Baking Choice quotes: "You can be fat and active, look at me." "Who doesn't love Doogal?" "This episode is brought to you by GLI." Chapters, but add a bit because of our sensational music (which is Bowlface en Provence, by the wonderful Mara Carlyle, used with the artist’s permission): 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:57 Personal anecdotes and nicknames from childhood and adulthood 07:03 Introduction of sponsor Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) 07:59 Discussion on global gambling jurisdictions and GLI's role 11:03 Nicknames in life and their significance 15:57 Discussion on company names and rebranding, including Optimove 21:08 Personal stories about weight, health, and medical interventions 27:58 UK gambling regulation updates: affordability checks and industry response 35:02 Discussion on the departure of key regulators and industry changes 39:54 Job opportunities in gambling regulation and industry challenges 49:50 UK government proposals on unlicensed gambling sponsorships 54:57 Prediction markets and their regulation in the UK 01:00:10 Legal considerations for prediction markets and betting exchanges 01:04:56 Concluding thoughts and industry outlook Mel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-ellis/ Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.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/

July 23, 202654 min

RTFM 269: Patrick Jay: Customer Trust Shapes the Gaming Industry

In this episode, Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello meet industry expert Patrick Jay about trust in gambling, customer experience, and the future of gaming regulation. They explore how trust impacts regulation, customer loyalty, and industry innovation. It’s a jolly good episode, and one that is brought to you by our sponsors GLI , Optimove , and World Gaming . More info and links to their worlds of wonder is after the episode info below. Things we discuss in said episode, in a list: Customer trust as the root of regulation and industry health The importance of seamless customer journeys and quick payouts The impact of regulation driven by trust issues Innovation cycles in gaming and betting The role of customer experience in brand and product differentiation Chapters (but add about 30 seconds because of our beautiful music): 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:53 Sponsorships and industry partnerships 06:56 Introducing Patrick J. and his background 11:00 The core argument: industry fighting the wrong war 14:11 Customer trust as the root cause of regulation 17:46 The impact of trust on regulatory actions 21:59 Customer service and trust: lessons from Amazon 25:49 Building customer trust through fast payouts 29:52 Simplifying user journeys and product focus 34:01 The importance of focus and avoiding shiny object syndrome 37:57 Experience as the core of product and brand 41:52 Comparing airline apps: British Airways vs EasyJet 44:45 The pace of change in AI and challenger brands 49:55 The value of focus and simplicity in innovation 53:20 The role of trust in the betting experience Patrick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-jay-1493694/ Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.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/

July 16, 20261 hr 4 min

RTFM 268: Is 1XCARE the real deal? Simon Westbury says it is

In another blockbuster episode of the gambling industry’s favourite podcast, Simon Westbury, Chair of 1XCare, discusses industry perceptions around 1XBET and the new project 1XCARE, regulatory challenges, player protection, and the future of responsible gambling initiatives. He shares insights on transparency, research, and collaborative efforts to improve industry standards. Yeah, we talk about a lot of stuff. No Fintan, sadly. What we discuss, in an easily-digestible list: Industry perception and misperceptions of 1X Care Regulatory evolution and licensing strategies Player protection and safer gambling initiatives Research and data in gambling harm prevention Transparency and accountability in industry practices Collaborative efforts for industry improvement Impact of regulation on market expansion Holistic approaches to gambling addiction Choice quotes: "Industry wants to work with us and engage." "We need to win the conversation with society." "Gambling has an image problem that needs addressing." Chapters, but add 30 seconds maybe for the lovely music: 00:00 Introduction and Sponsorships 09:12 1X Care and Addressing Misperceptions 15:00 Player Protection and Industry Challenges 22:06 Research and Polarization in Gambling Addiction 28:01 Collaboration and Future Directions 34:14 Understanding Regulatory Challenges in the Industry 40:18 The Importance of Transparency and Accountability 52:02 Addressing Gambling Addiction and Its Root Causes 58:24 The Future of One X Care and Industry Engagement Simon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonwestbury/ Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.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/

July 9, 202650 min

RTFM 267: Frank Op de Woerd talks Netherlands industry madness

In this episode, Jon and Fintan are joined by the incomparable, inimitable Frank Op de Woerd to discuss the latest developments in Dutch gambling regulation, market challenges, and innovative marketing strategies. They also share insights on international trends, legal issues, and the future of online gambling. As ever, Frank is an absolute legend. What we talk about in a handy, concise list. Why not print it out, keep it in your pocket just in case? Dutch gambling regulation updates Market channelisation and illegal operators Impact of regulation on gambling addiction Innovative marketing and affiliate strategies International trends in gambling legislation Choice quotes: "Wow, what a week at IGB London." "Mentally, the clarity from fat jabs is extraordinary." "Fifty percent of GGR goes to the illegal market." Chapters – but add a bit because of our beautiful theme music: 00:00 Introduction and Light Banter 03:30 IGB London Experience 06:16 Sponsorships and Marketing Solutions 09:39 Introduction of Guest Frank op de Wood 12:11 Discussion on Weight Loss Treatments and Experiences 17:11 The State of Football in the Netherlands 22:18 Gambling Regulations and Developments 30:03 Challenges in Channelization and Market Dynamics 35:29 Addressing Gambling Addiction and Support Systems 40:53 Public Perception and Future of Online Gambling Frank on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankopdewoerd/ Resources & Links: As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support that makes all of this… magic… possible. Optimove , who turn customer data into something special, with tools that make businesses just plain work better. Optimove , your support helps us to keep creating content for an industry that probably thinks we disappeared years ago. Then of course there is Clarion Gaming , no hang on World Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo and iGB Live! in London. There is simply nobody better at what they do. And the new-ish-est members of the family, the excellent Gaming Laboratories International. GLI is a world-class Testing, Inspections and Certification company committed to delivering the highest quality land-based, lottery, and iGaming testing and assessment services, working in more than 710 jurisdictions. For more information, visit gaminglabs.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/

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