In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Shelley Hannah, CPO at Relax Gaming.
Shelley shares her inspiring 25-year journey from software programming to executive leadership in iGaming.
She opens up about battling perfectionism, navigating self-doubt, leading through rapid industry change, and recovering from a life-altering car accident.
The conversation explores leadership resilience, mental health in high-pressure roles, and the power of empathy in building high-performing teams.
Guest Bio
Shelley Hannah started her career in 1999 as a software programmer, working in the air traffic industry and insurance.
In 2013 she moved to the iGaming industry and, since then, has been working with partner programs, aggregation business, product innovation, operations and commercial.
For nearly 7 years she has been part of the growth journey at Relax Gaming.
Her career in product and software development has been instrumental in Relax Gaming's success and reputation as a leading B2B supplier.
Shelley is currently on the move to a new role, to be announced very soon.
Key Topics Discussed
00:00 – From coder to CPO: Shelley’s non-linear rise
04:30 – Handling the chaos: why iGaming is a different beast
06:30 – Perfectionism, ambition, and burnout
09:45 – Learning to let go and lead through trust
14:00 – Navigating imposter syndrome and leadership doubt
16:00 – The loneliness of director roles
19:00 – Why building team culture beats micromanaging
23:00 – There will be Fire
26:30 – Surviving a near-fatal car accident
33:00 – Mental health, relapse fear, and self-awareness
38:00 – Growth through discomfort and honest leadership
43:00 – Practical ways to balance health and ambition
47:00 – A message to anyone who's quietly struggling
Powerful Quotes
"We all have different skills. If we were all the same, we'd be like robots."
"You don’t need to know everything to take the role. You just need the skills to figure it out."
"Your to-do list will never be done. Prioritise what really matters."
"Leadership is about helping others succeed"
"Nobody expects you to work 15 hours a day. That pressure comes from you."
Important Links
Connect with Shelley Hannah: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyhannah/
Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/
Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup
Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/
In this episode of the iGaming Leader Podcast, Leo sits down with Grainne Hurst, CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council, a distinguished professional in the gaming industry with over a decade of experience working with prominent organizations such as GVC, Labworks Coral, and the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC).
Grainne shares her challenging yet brilliant career starting from her return from maternity leave into a period of immense professional upheaval and a subsequent promotion. She discusses her journey of resilience also feelings of 'mum guilt' and her approach to managing work-life balance with a supportive network, her unexpected path into lobbying, and her entry into the gaming industry.
GUEST BIO:
Grainne Hurst is the CEO of the Betting and Gaming Council, bringing nearly a decade of leadership experience from global betting brand Entain, where she served as Group Corporate Affairs Director.
In this role, she spearheaded government relations, led the company's successful rebrand from GVC to Entain, and developed the multi-award-winning safer gambling strategy “Changing for the Better.”
With deep expertise in political communications, advocacy, and regulatory affairs. Grainne previously served as a special advisor to the UK government, and her appointment as BGC CEO came as part of a strategic leadership restructuring, with former CEO Michael Dugher transitioning to Chair.
Currently serving as a board member of Global Gaming Women and leading the charity's international expansion across the UK, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.
KEY POINTS:
00:00 — Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:40 — Overcoming Career Challenges
12:22 — Navigating Mergers and Acquisitions
20:05 — Balancing Work and Family Life
23:44 — The Importance of Networking and Support
26:43 — Current Role and Industry Insights
35:19 — Advice for Career Resilience
39:01 — Conclusion and Final Thoughts
MEMORABLE QUOTES:
“There's no such thing as a work-life balance.”
“Continue to hold your head up high, continue to do your best work.”
“You have to pick yourself back up, put on a brave face, move onward and upward.”
“The biggest issue and challenges for me were actually surviving then repositioning myself each time.”
“Being a straight player means sometimes being too direct, but it’s better than playing political games.”
“Accept the principle, but let's work together on how we actually get there in practice.”
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Sun article by Harry Cole on tax consultation:
https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/34714856/rachel-reeves-horse-racing-tax-hike-betting/
Appearance on Racing TV: Betting and Gaming Council on X:
https://t.co/LxATuixICZ" / X
Post on LI on black market:
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/grainne-hurst-1a32821a_dont-underestimate-the-threat-from-the-gambling-activity-7317882477589528578-cUKc?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAXsdK8B-LO8wK62bL6Rj53p2J9mMbqRKEc
Sun editorial on tax consulation:
https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7323252184203055104
Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/
Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter:
https://www.igamingleader.com/signup
Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind:
https://www.igamingleader.com/
In this episode of the iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Fintan Costello, former MD at BonusFinder and current Non-Executive Director at Gambling.com Group. Fintan shares the remarkable journey from launching daring stunts at Paddy Power to scaling an affiliate business through grit, creativity, and relentless execution.
The conversation explores entrepreneurship inside and outside the corporate world, leadership lessons from marketing war zones, the truth about exits and earnouts, and what it really means to pursue “Big 2025 Energy.”
A must-listen for iGaming professionals seeking resilience, strategic vision, and human depth.
GUEST BIO:
17 years in the gambling industry but really a marketing nerd at heart. Fintan worked at some of the giants including PaddyPower, PokerStars and Google.
Exited Bonusfinder to Gambling.com group where he currently serves as a Non-Executive Director.
In his spare time he likes to run really long distances.
Key Topics Discussed:
00:00 – The iGaming marketing arms race and civilian outsiders
04:30 – From Paddy Power stunts to Seal Team Six: Fintan’s first break
09:45 – What drives competitiveness and staying power in iGaming
14:10 – The zero-to-one obsession: entrepreneurship vs. comfort zones
18:40 – Building BonusFinder: from near burnout to acquisition
25:00 – The truth behind exits: exhaustion, timing, and what people don’t see
30:15 – Adapting after the sale: investing time vs. investing money
35:10 – Rediscovering purpose and mentoring new founders
38:00 – What “Big 2025 Energy” really means
41:30 – Fatherhood, legacy, and designing your best years intentionally
MEMORABLE QUOTES:
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Follow with Fintan Costello: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/
Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/
Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup
Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/
In this episode of iGaming Leader, host Leo Judkins sits down with Nakeeta Janse van Rensburg, former Group CEO of the MEGA Group, co-founder of StratEdge Group, and UK ambassador for Women in Gaming Africa.
Nakeeta shares her extraordinary journey through 17 years in iGaming leadership, culminating in her transition to entrepreneurship.
The conversation explores leadership, burnout, servant leadership, emotional intelligence, and cultural challenges in corporate environments, offering powerful insights and hard-earned advice for executives navigating rapid growth, health challenges, and the personal cost of high performance in the gaming industry.
Guest Bio
Nakeeta has been in the iGaming industry for over 17 years. With her roots in VIP, CRM and customer retention she has worked in almost every department in the B2C and B2B space.
After 6 years of running the Ellipse Entertainment/MEGA Group she recently exited and has now co-founded StratEdge Group Inc which offers consulting services for new market entry worldwide, helping businesses navigate the entry without the unnecessary financial burn.
Nakeeta serves as the UK Ambassador for women in iGaming Africa and pioneered the 3 pillars of leadership to build strong teams of leaders serving each other.
Key Topics Discussed
00:00 – When "We're a family" culture becomes toxic
02:54 – Building a confident, empowered, global team
06:20 – The cost of career growth: imposter syndrome and overwork
10:08 – The risks of not setting boundaries from the beginning
14:05 – The most important thing you can do for yourself
17:04 – Redefining relationships after stepping into leadership
20:00 – Coping with isolation at the top
23:00 – Sacrifices behind the scenes
27:43 – The power and traps of servant leadership
38:00 – Finding identity beyond the job title
46:15 Launching StratEdge agency and rediscovering purpose
Memorable Quotes
"Some businesses actually do expect the team to die for the business — and will even use that language."
"You have made work non-negotiable, and everything else is negotiable."
"Servant leadership isn’t about doing what everyone says — it’s about being courageous for the whole."
"I was the job. I wasn't even so much my title — I was the company."
"Fear is just a trigger warning system. How you deal with fear is a completely different thing."
Important Links
Episode Summary
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Frank op de Woerd, co-founder and CEO of CasinoNieuws.nl.
Frank shares his journey from bluffing his way into poker journalism to becoming a respected media figure in the Dutch iGaming industry.
He opens up about burnout, leadership, the emotional fallout of COVID, and why he walked away from high-status opportunities to start something he could truly believe in.
The conversation explores his reflections on poker fame, rebuilding from scratch, setting editorial standards, and staying true to his values in a highly competitive industry.
GUEST:
Frank op de Woerd discovered poker while studying at Utrecht University in 2005. Though he never turned pro, his passion led him to a role at PokerNews.nl, eventually rising to Head of Content at PokerNews.com.
With the Dutch gaming market on the verge of regulation, he co-founded CasinoNieuws.nl, which quickly became one of the largest affiliates in the Netherlands. Frank now serves as CEO of CasinoNieuws.nl, overseeing other leading platforms like
OnlineCasinoGround.nl, BesteCasinoBonussen.nl, and GokkastenXL.nl, while also preparing to launch OnlineCasinoUSA.com.
He also founded the Online Casino of the Year awards, the most prominent recognition for legal gambling sites in the Netherlands.
Key Topics Discussed:
00:00 - Welcome to the iGaming Leader Podcast
02:35 - Bluffing His Way into Poker Media
06:22 - Becoming the Face of Dutch Poker
10:04 - Hall of Fame Recognition & Industry Evolution
13:55 - Losing His Job During COVID
18:01 - Starting Over with CasinoNieuws.nl
21:46 - Launching with 1,000+ Articles and No Monetisation
25:40 - The Article That Changed Everything
30:10 - Building Trust and Editorial Integrity
36:08 - Balancing Leadership with Personal Values
41:00 - Advice for Founders and Industry Creators
MEMORABLE QUOTES:
“If you say yes to everything, you're basically saying no to yourself.”
“It was terrifying—starting a media company without monetisation or a safety net.”
“We didn’t want to be the biggest; we wanted to be the most credible.”
“Being inducted into the Hall of Fame didn’t make me feel successful. Starting over did.”
“Saying no became my survival skill.”
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Follow Frank op de Woerd’s work:
Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/
Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter:
https://www.igamingleader.com/signup
Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind:
https://www.igamingleader.com/
In this episode of the iGaming Leader, Leo Judkins sits down with John Wright, co-founder of StatsDrone.
John shares challenges and tough decisions he faced, almost going bankrupt and starting over with his business, finding his purpose, the role of therapy in his life, and the way he navigated through some professional and personal setbacks.
The conversation explores his experiences with public speaking, social media engagement, and ultimately finding sustainable high performance.
GUEST:
John has been in iGaming for over 20 years as a professional gambler, affiliate manager, casino operator, affiliate and now as an affiliate analytics software builder.
On top of being an affiliate coach, he is also on the Board of Trustees at BetBlocker
Key Topics Discussed:
00:00 Welcome to the iGaming Leader Podcast
01:20 John Wright's Journey into iGaming
05:59 Finding Purpose and Overcoming Challenges
10:57 The Role of Therapy and Personal Growth
16:31 Balancing Patience and Agility in Business
21:07 The Painful Decision to Relaunch
25:05 Business Partnerships
31:22 The Highs and Lows of Pitching to Investors
36:01 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
MEMORABLE QUOTES:
“All those previous 20 years they made me better at what I am today.”
“You don't realize what we're locking inside ourselves…”
“So when I look at people, I try to go a bit deeper and go, I know there's more pain and things that we don't see on the surface”
“I believe if I don't do this work, someone else will but if I do this work, I also have an opportunity to do something positive about it”
IMPORTANT LINKS:
Contact John wright :
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alwayslookright/
https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/affiliate-bi-7063965031784148992/
https://open.spotify.com/show/0nTNXugQTY4Ww8JiSULeiu?si=a5654594f03041a3
https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/
https://www.igamingleader.com/signup
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Daniel Beard, Partner at Partis Capital and long-time advisor in the gaming industry.
Daniel shares a raw and honest reflection on his journey—from adoption trauma and imposter syndrome to leading multimillion-pound deals and founding one of the most community-driven events in iGaming.
The conversation explores leadership under pressure, emotional resilience, the real drivers behind burnout, and the surprising role sport, therapy, and charity have played in Daniel’s success.
Guest Bio
Daniel Beard began his career 20 years ago in recruitment at Pentasia. He then transitioned into a commercial role at Openbet, where he played a key role in securing one of their largest clients, Betfair.
Following that, Daniel joined Progressplay, a white-label solution provider, helping scale the business from 6 to 64 sites.
He later moved to GSI, a casino middleware layer, which was eventually acquired by Push Gaming.
Today, Daniel serves as a Partner at Partis Capital, a leading M&A advisory firm in the gaming industry, and is also an active investor across various businesses.
Key Topics Discussed
00:00 – How adoption trauma impacts business performance
07:00 – Breaking imposter syndrome through introspection
14:00 – Daniel’s first panic attack in front of a client
18:00 – The purpose of Oliver’s Wish Boxing Event
22:00 – Re-evaluating life after burnout and loss
27:00 – Managing emotional triggers and boundaries
32:00 – How not to bully yourself
Memorable Quotes
“Before you've even brushed your teeth, you're already bullying yourself.”
“Why are you in the room? Why do they believe in you?”
“For me, it's all personal. It’s never just business.”
Important Links
Connect with Daniel Beard
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielbeard/
Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins
Subscribe to the iGaming Leader Newsletter: igamingleader.com/signup
Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: igamingleader.com
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with several standout members of the iGaming Leader Mastermind to share their deeply personal journeys of transformation.
From burnout and overwhelm to sustainable high performance, these stories reveal the real impact of removing the mask and prioritising wellbeing in the world of leadership.
The conversation explores burnout, work-life balance, imposter syndrome, stress, resilience, leadership growth, and personal recovery — offering inspiration and actionable insights for ambitious iGaming professionals ready to lead without losing themselves in the process.
Our Guests
Rob Fell is CEO at RiskCherry, known for his physical transformation and renewed mental clarity. He now leads with structure, focus, and purpose.
Fintan Costello is a veteran founder and advisor in the industry. After facing burnout, he rebuilt a better approach to business and life.
Julia Weygandt is the Group CCO at CallsU and a committee member at Global Gaming Women. Once overwhelmed by work, she found clarity, boundaries, and a powerful support system.
Carl Hallam is Co-Founder of Vega Gibraltar. Once mentally and physically exhausted, he’s now living with presence, peace, and professional purpose.
Lex Scott is VP of Gaming at ITV Studios. From near breakdown to emotional recovery, Lex shares how he rediscovered balance and inner peace.
Richard Marquis is a Director at Flutter/Sky Gaming. After losing his mother, he redefined his approach to time and work, creating sustainable habits and intentional living.
Arturs Zagurilo is a CCO who overcame imposter syndrome and scepticism about coaching. Through the Mastermind, he became more productive and genuinely happy.
James Murray is Director of Business Development at Playnetic. From burnout and hopelessness to reclaiming control and confidence, his story highlights the power of asking for help.
Key Topics Discussed
00:00 – Rob Fell on building clarity and overcoming burnout through structure
03:00 – Fintan Costello on regaining 30 hours/week and making millions through mindset shifts
06:00 – Julia Weygandt on feeling consumed by work and finding community and balance
08:00 – Carl Hallam on recovering from emotional strain and becoming a better leader
11:00 – Lex Scott on near-collapse and finally finding inner peace
13:00 – Richard Marquis on the loss of his mother and building habits to honour her legacy
16:00 – Arturs Zagurilo on overcoming imposter syndrome and discovering the value of community
19:00 – James Murray on escaping burnout, asking for help, and reclaiming his joy and energy
Memorable Quotes
"I was done. I was working long days, working weekends… but I knew it wasn’t sustainable." – Fintan Costello
"Everyone on my birthday list was from work… that was the moment I realised something had to change." – Julia Weygandt
"I’m physically 10 years younger but mentally 20 years older." – Carl Hallam
"For the first time… I feel peace. I thought it was something that was beyond me." – Lex Scott
"You are in control of your own happiness." – James Murray
"What I’m most proud of is the feeling of habits forming — and knowing they’ll last." – Richard Marquis
"At first, I thought this was all BS. But now I know — it works. I’m more productive and more happy." – Arturs Zagurilo
Important Links
Connect with Leo Judkins: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins
Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup
Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo Judkins sits down with Vladimir Malakchi, investor, advisor, former CCO of Evoplay and CEO of Xanada Investments.
Vladimir shares how adaptability, integrity, and fearless decision-making shaped his journey from government employee to multi-industry executive and respected leader in iGaming.
The conversation explores personal resilience, navigating uncertainty, leading with impact, and the mindset shifts that separate founders who thrive from those who stall — offering real, raw advice for executives, founders, and future leaders.
Guest Bio
Vladimir Malakchi is a strategic investor and business scaling expert with 10 years of experience. Over the past 5 years, he has mentored iGaming companies, guiding them to commercial success and top industry rankings.
Recognized as Speaker of the Year and Influencer of the Year, Vladimir is among LinkedIn's top voices in the industry. He has led companies to over 300 awards and nominations.
A respected judge and speaker at global gaming conferences, Vladimir launched Xanada Investments — an investment fund that supports promising iGaming projects, focusing on business scaling through financial backing and a community-driven approach for mutual success.
Key Topics Discussed
00:00 – Introduction
03:00 – Betrayed by a friend helped by a stranger
08:00 – Couldn’t go back and face my mother
10:50 – Why adaptability is the most critical skill for founders
11:50 – Career pivots, mindset shifts, and making your own luck
17:00 – You need to start moving, moving, moving.
24:11 – Fear, risk, and the dangers of the comfort zone
30:50 – The mindset difference between serial founders and first-time entrepreneurs
34:55 – Perfectionism vs. speed: the silent killer of startups
38:50 – What I want to be remembered for
Memorable Quotes
"If you’re the smartest guy in the room, it’s time to change rooms."
"Comfort is the most dangerous place to live. You’ll look back and realise you’ve lost 20 years."
"People say yes because they don’t want to hurt your feelings. But if they won’t pay for your product, you’ve got nothing."
"Founders don’t die from failure — they die from perfectionism and inaction."
"I want to be remembered for helping people grow — not just in business, but in life."
Important Links
Connect with Vladimir Malakchi:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/vmalakchi/
https://xanada.fund
Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins
Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup
Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Mark Schmidt, Managing Director at EveryMatrix and a seasoned iGaming professional with over 17 years of industry experience.
Mark shares his extraordinary journey from rising through the ranks in sports betting and gaming, to battling addiction, depression, and suicidal thoughts—and ultimately rebuilding his life and career.
The conversation explores the pressures of leadership in iGaming, the dangers of burnout and imposter syndrome, the stigma around mental health in male-dominated environments, and the importance of vulnerability, boundaries, and support systems.
Mark offers raw honesty and empowering insights for anyone facing personal challenges while navigating high-performance careers.
Guest Bio
16 Year career in iGaming focusing exclusively on Africa. Mark has worked for the industry's leading B2B providers in senior roles with the likes of Sportradar and IMG.
His career started off in B2C as the head of trading for Hollywood Bets where his love of horse racing began.
He’s a dad to three girls and has been married for ten years to his amazing wife Derryn.
He’s currently with EveryMartrix and is the Managing Director - Africa.
Key Topics Discussed
00:00 - Introduction
02:50 - Mark’s early career at Hollywood Bets
07:09 - Struggles with mental health and alcohol in high-pressure roles
09:03 - Suicidal ideation and coming out of rock bottom
14:35 - Feeling alone and imposter syndrome
18:49 - Dealing with social expectations in gaming
21:40 - Building a peer support network for others in the industry
25:59 - Generational shifts, asking for help, and creating change before it’s too late
28:44 - Just get help
33:15 - Advice for Gaming Leaders who feel the same way
Memorable Quotes
"Although I was there in body, I wasn’t there in mind."
"The world’s changed a hell of a lot. There are so many different ways that you can get help now."
"If I was able to get to a better point, anyone can do it."
"Just get help. Even if it’s a friend. Don’t try to solve it in your own head."
Important Links
Connect with Mark Schmidt:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-schmidt-aa27398b/
Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/
Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup
Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Sasha Uman, Chief Commercial Officer at Playtech Live.
Sasha shares her inspiring journey from finance associate to CCO at Playtech Live's division, revealing how bold moves, and supportive networks shaped her career.
The conversation explores her path through the iGaming industry, the importance of asking for opportunities, overcoming imposter syndrome, managing remote teams, and maintaining work-life balance—offering actionable advice and relatable insights for aspiring leaders, especially women navigating male-dominated industries.
Guest Bio
Sasha is an action-focused commercial executive with a proven track record in driving revenue growth and market expansion.
With extensive experience in negotiating IP and software licensing agreements, as well as managing strategic contract renewals and re-negotiations, Sasha excels at navigating complex, high-impact projects to swift and effective resolutions.
A strong leader and skilled negotiator, she currently leads high-performing teams that consistently exceed KPIs and business expectations.
Key Topics Discussed
00:00 – Sasha’s career path: from finance to CCO at Playtech's Live Division
04:00 – Knocking on doors and asking for what you want
10:29 – Dealing with overthinking and building a strong support system
12:51 – Managing imposter syndrome and finding confidence through connection
18:42 – Balancing leadership and family life in the iGaming industry
23:14 – Overcoming challenges and defining leadership through adversity
26:26 – The value of authentic leadership and doing things your own way
32:30 – Delegation struggles and the long-term value of empowering others
36:20 – Advice for business development professionals looking to grow fast
Memorable Quotes
"I have to do it myself. No one will build your future for you."
"Overthinking turns into a vicious circle. It’s better not to go into it at all."
"You can achieve things in your own way. There’s no one path to success."
"Don’t just pitch the revenue share—understand the product deeply."
"People don’t always know what you’re capable of unless you show them."
Important Links
Connect with Sasha Uman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sasha-uman-17722780/
Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/
Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup
Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Paris Smith, former CEO of Pinnacle and one of the most influential leaders in the iGaming industry.
Paris shares her journey from sports betting to leading a powerhouse brand, highlighting the challenges, leadership lessons, and industry shifts she has navigated.
The conversation explores high-performance culture, resilience in the face of public scrutiny, and the evolving dynamics of leadership in iGaming.
Paris shares what it takes to thrive in a fast-paced, ever-changing industry.
Guest Bio
Paris Smith began her Hall of Fame gaming career in 1995 with WWTS.
In 2006, she joined Pinnacle, helping transition the business toward Asian and European markets.
She then restructured Pinnacle into a B2C bookmaking leader, pioneering initiatives like accepting the first esports bets in 2010.
With unmatched industry expertise, Paris now serves as an advisor and consultant, leveraging her passion and experience to guide others through Life Winning and Defy the Odds.
Key Topics Discussed
00:00 – Guest introduction
02:00 – Paris' early years in sports and how competition shaped her leadership
05:25 – Building a high-performance culture in iGaming
09:36 – Holding teams to higher standards
13:10 – Dealing with public scrutiny and pressure
20:53 – Industry resilience and the evolving role of leadership
24:00 – Market shifts post-COVID and the challenge of balancing costs and people
26:43 – Handling layoffs and company transitions
29:28 – The three types of professionals in iGaming
33:29 – The biggest untapped opportunities for operators today
37:04 – Responsible gaming: The need for incentives over penalties
39:24 – The key to success: Humility, adaptability, and believing in yourself
Memorable Quotes
"I love crunch time. Three seconds left, down by two—I want the ball. That's how I approach leadership."
"You can’t thrive in iGaming if you’re not listening, learning, and evolving. Stagnation isn’t anoption in this industry."
"Resilience isn’t about avoiding challenges—it’s about knowing you’ll push through them, no matter what."
Important Links
Naive or ballsy? Building a company from scratch in an industry you don’t know with Helen Walton
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Helen Walton, Chief Commercial Officer and Co-Founder of G Games, an online casino studio.
Helen shares how she went from working on household brands to co-founding a gaming business that supplies games to over 800 operators.
The conversation explores the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of building strong business relationships, and the unconventional strategies that helped G Games stand out in the iGaming industry.
Offering insights into leadership, resilience, and industry innovation, Helen provides valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and gaming professionals.
Guest Bio
Helen Walton is the Chief Commercial Officer and Co-Founder of G Games.
Over the last decade, she and her business partners have grown G Games from a bold idea into a global company, supplying games to over 800 operators.
Helen has worked across multiple industries, from beauty and retail to logistics and gaming, helping build some of the most recognizable brands.
A well-known speaker and writer in iGaming, she is also a member of the UKGC Industry Forum, advocating for responsible gaming and innovation in the sector.
Key Topics Discussed
00:00 – From consumer brands to iGaming
03:00 – How G Games started
05:38 – Early failures that shaped G Games
08:01 – Why networking is critical to success
09:14 – Standing out in iGaming
12:18 – Overcoming setbacks
20:11 – Building a strong company culture
23:57 – The power of autonomy, trust, and feedback
29:58 – Delegation and letting go
35:14 – Bringing fresh talent into iGaming
41:15 – Take ownership of your career and create your own opportunities
Memorable Quotes
"We started with no network, no industry experience—just a crazy idea and a lot of persistence."
"Failure is a great teacher. Every mistake we made helped shape the company we have today."
"If you want to grow in your career, stop waiting for someone to tell you what to do—take ownership and make things happen."
Important Links
https://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-walton/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/gforthegamers
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Simon Pilkington, former CEO of KaFe Rocks and experienced iGaming executive.
Simon shares his transformative journey, from navigating imposter syndrome and career shifts to prioritizing his health and well-being.
They go deep into leadership challenges, personal growth, and the power of building a strong support system.
Simon shares some valuable insights and practical advice for leaders striving to balance career success with personal fulfillment.
Guest Bio
Simon Pilkington is a seasoned iGaming executive with a background in leadership, strategy, and business transformation.
17+ years in the iGaming industry, spanning operator, media and data companies, affiliate companies, and his own businesses.
Not a 'straight forward' career path, but one that led to CEO leadership with KaFe Rocks. Currently running Wander, a specialist and unique recruitment business, alongside a start-up and bootstrapped affiliate company called Best Betting Media.
Key Topics Discussed
00:00 – Taking over as CEO: The challenges of stepping into leadership
05:42 – Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt
09:58 – Balancing career, family, and well-being during the pandemic
11:36 – Transforming health: From burnout to peak performance
17:08 – The power of delegation and trusting your team
22:11 – Lessons from leadership: Building the right company culture
26:25 – Getting out of your own head
34:28 – Simon’s charity work: From boxing to running 180 miles for a cause
Memorable Quotes
"I was doing everything for everyone—except myself. When I finally prioritized my well-being, everything else improved."
"You don’t get rid of imposter syndrome—you learn to manage it and use it to your advantage."
"Leadership isn’t about knowing everything; it’s about surrounding yourself with the right people and trusting them."
Important Links
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Britt Boeskov, an experienced executive in iGaming and digital transformation.
Britt shares her journey from starting as a management trainee to becoming a C-level leader in a fast-paced and highly regulated industry. The conversation explores career progression, leadership challenges, the power of building strong professional relationships, and the impact of AI and personalization in the gaming industry. Offering valuable insights, Britt provides actionable advice for professionals looking to step up in their careers and lead with confidence.
Guest Bio
With 20 years of experience in the i-gaming industry, Britt is a board member and advisor who specialises in strategy, customer experience, and digital transformation.
After a long C-level run with Kindred Group, she now serves on the boards of Better Collective, Mindway AI, GAMING1 Group, MAG Interactive and Racecourse Media Group; and provides tailored support through 4see Advice.
Key Topics Discussed
02:00 – Britt’s journey to C-level executive
04:40 – Transitioning to an established industry leader
07:00 – Stepping into leadership: Taking ownership and leading with confidence
09:50 – Sometimes you just have to take the corner office
11:20 – You don’t have to do it all yourself
16:00 – The importance of delegation and trusting your team
21:20 – Finding purpose in leadership and the role of responsible gaming
24:50 – The evolution of player engagement and the role of AI in gaming
29:30 – Britt’s advice for leveling up your career
Memorable Quotes
"You don't get the corner office. You take the corner office."
"High performers balance humility and curiosity with ambition and persistence."
"The one lasting thing you build in this industry is your relationships—hold on to them."
Important Links
Connect with Britt:
Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/
Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup
Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Elena, a seasoned executive with extensive experience in business transformation and leadership.
Elena shares her journey from starting as a PA to leading billion-pound transformation projects in highly regulated industries.
The conversation explores navigating career transitions, the importance of leadership adaptability, and how diverse perspectives shape high-performing teams.
Elena provides actionable advice for leaders looking to progress into executive roles and lead with confidence.
Guest Bio
Elena Chambers is the Group Chief Transformation and Corporate Development Officer at Allwyn, bringing over 20 years of global experience in strategic planning and business transformation. Her journey from starting as a PA in Moscow to leading billion-pound transformations showcases her ability to drive innovation across industries.
Prior to Allwyn, she served as COO at 888holdings where she led the William Hill post-merger integration, and spent 12 years at British American Tobacco leading a £1.2bn global transformation program. A graduate of both Columbia and London Business School, Elena brings a unique perspective shaped by her cross-cultural experience, with a leadership approach that emphasizes curiosity, authenticity, and building diverse teams to drive organizational change.
Key Topics Discussed
02:00 – Elena’s career journey: From PA to leading transformation projects
03:50 – Breaking into the iGaming industry and taking on executive roles
07:20 – Managing international teams and adapting to different leadership cultures
11:50 – Leveraging strengths as a woman in a male-dominated industry
20:30 – The importance of delegation and letting go to grow as a leader
25:30 – Handling imposter syndrome and embracing continuous learning
29:00 – Lessons from the tobacco industry: Anticipating regulatory changes in gaming
32:20 – The future of national lotteries and the role of technology in transformation
Memorable Quotes
"If you try to mimic your male colleagues' behavior, that's not going to get you anywhere—be yourself and use your unique strengths."
"One of the biggest skills for a leader is to build a team that complements each other, not one that mirrors each other."
"Start transforming from the inside while you still can—don’t wait until you’re forced to change."
Important Links
Connect with Elena: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenareznikorskaya/
Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/
Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup
Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Georgia Parry, Director of Key Accounts at Blueprint, to discuss her incredible career progression, overcoming adversity, and her leadership philosophy.
Georgia shares how she went from an office administrator to a director in just seven years, the lessons she learned from a major health scare, balancing leadership with single parenthood, and how she built her confidence in a high-stakes industry.
This conversation dives into personal resilience, leadership growth, and strategies for managing stakeholder relationships in gaming.
Whether you're an aspiring leader, a working parent, or someone looking to build more confidence in your career, Georgia’s story is packed with valuable insights.
Guest Bio
Georgia Parry is the Director of Key Accounts UK at Blueprint Gaming, where she has been a key player for the past seven years, starting her journey as an Office Administrator before rapidly climbing the ranks. Prior to joining the gaming industry, she worked as a Sales Negotiator in real estate, but her passion for people and relationship-building naturally led her into commercial roles.
As an extroverted and highly social leader, Georgia thrives in roles that emphasize human connection. She firmly believes that people buy from people, not just products, and that hiring genuinely good individuals is the foundation of a successful business. While still learning the nuances of her leadership position, she embraces the journey and the challenges that come with it.
Outside of work, Georgia is a devoted mother to her 8-year-old son, Henry, her greatest motivation to succeed.
Key Topics Discussed
00:00 – Welcome and Introduction
03:50 – The Science Teacher’s Prediction
05:50 – Pivotal Career Moments
08:00 – Navigating a Major Life Change
12:50 – Facing a Life-Threatening Health Scare
16:30 – The Power of Positivity and Resilience
19:30 – Leadership & Emotional Intelligence
26:00 – Building Relationships in iGaming
28:30 – Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
31:50 – Lessons from Great Leaders
34:20 – Advice to Her Younger Self
Memorable Quotes
📌 “I truly believe that if you understand what makes people happy at work, you’ll get the best out of them—without needing to be a strict leader.”
📌 “If you’re progressing in your career, imposter syndrome is natural. It means you’re in the right place.”
📌 “Life is short—don’t waste energy on negativity. Control what you can, and let go of the rest.”
📌 “If you ever don’t know the answer, just say, ‘I don’t know, but I’ll find out.’ That’s how you build credibility.”
Important Links
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Andrew Bulloss, Partner at Odgers Berndtson, to explore the evolution of leadership in the iGaming industry. Andrew shares his journey from sports recruitment to building one of the most influential executive search practices in betting and gaming.
The conversation covers how leadership requirements have changed over the last decade, why curiosity is an underrated trait, and what it really takes to break into C-level positions. Andrew also dives into how leaders can develop their self-awareness, overcome imposter syndrome, and position themselves for board-level roles.
Whether you're an aspiring leader, an experienced executive, or someone looking to make a meaningful career move, this episode is filled with actionable insights and hard-earned wisdom to help you grow.
Guest Bio
Andrew Bulloss is a Partner at Odgers Berndtson, where he runs the global gaming practice - all the board and leadership roles handled in igaming, betting and interactive entertainment internationally.
He also runs the broader entertainment division at Odgers - a team of around 20 people in London working with clients in media, sport, music and gaming. Last year they handled over 90 senior appointments in 14 countries
His expertise in identifying high-impact leaders, understanding talent trends, and guiding executives into board-level positions has made him a trusted advisor to CEOs, investors, and leadership teams worldwide.
In his own words: I love my job. I meet some amazing people. Its a good reason to get out of bed in the morning.
He is a Dad of twins, mid-life crisis mountain biker and road biker.
Key Topics Discussed
00:00 – Welcome and Introduction
03:00 – Building a Career in iGaming
06:00 – The Highs and Lows of Executive Search
09:30 – Finding Your Voice as a Leader
11:50 – The Role of Self-Awareness in Leadership
14:30 – Lessons from Top CEOs
17:00 – The Most Underrated Leadership Trait: Curiosity
19:00 – Authenticity, Empathy, and Collaboration
22:30 – Inside vs. Outside Industry Hires
26:00 – How to Prepare for Board-Level Roles
30:00 – Breaking into C-Level Positions
34:00 – The Power of Personal Branding
Memorable Quotes
📌 “Imposter syndrome shows that you care. If you’re not at least a little nervous before a big meeting, do you even care about the outcome?”
📌 “I only do the things that only I can do.”
📌 “Curiosity is a leadership superpower. Great executives look beyond their industry for ideas and innovation.”
📌 “Being authentic and showing empathy, they’re the foundation of strong leadership.”
Important Links
How to Lead Major Industry Events – Alex Pratt on Balancing Success with Well-Being
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Alex Pratt, Group Managing Director at Clarion Gaming, to discuss leadership in large-scale events, business resilience, and the mindset shifts needed to sustain long-term success.
Alex shares his journey from sales to leading some of the most influential events in the iGaming industry, including ICE and iGaming Business. He provides insights into what makes an event successful, how to navigate high-pressure situations, and why adaptability is key in the ever-changing gaming industry.
The conversation also covers authentic leadership, personal growth, and work-life balance, offering valuable lessons for executives, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to thrive in high-performance environments.
Guest Bio
Alex Pratt is the Group Managing Director at Clarion Gaming, overseeing some of the industry's most prominent events, including ICE and iGB Affiliate. With over two decades of experience in iGaming, he has played a pivotal role in shaping gaming media, events, and community-building.
He began his career in sales, eventually growing iGaming Business from a small quarterly print magazine into a dominant media powerhouse. He later joined Clarion Gaming, where he has led transformative changes, including the recent relocation of ICE from London to Barcelona.
Known for his strategic vision, innovative approach, and people-first leadership style, Alex is passionate about creating valuable industry connections, improving workplace culture, and helping leaders grow both professionally and personally.
Key Topics Discussed
00:00 – Welcome and Introduction
01:30 – Moving ICE to Barcelona
06:30 – Starting in Sales
09:00 – Journey in iGaming
12:00 – Almost Losing the Business Overnight
17:30 – Handling Public Criticism and Pressure as a Leader
21:30 – Authenticity and setting boundaries
26:00 – Vulnerable Authentic Leadership
33:00 – The Future of Industry Events and AI in Conferences
38:40 – How to Get the Most Out of Industry Events
43:40 – Work-Life Balance and Leadership Energy Management
Important Links
From Burnout to Unstoppable Entrepreneurship: Lessons in Leadership and forging your own path with Robert Lenzhofer
In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Robert Lenzhofer, Co-Founder & CEO of Hölle Games, to discuss his 20-year journey in the gaming industry, from his early days at Bwin to leading his own tech-driven company. Robert opens up about the lessons he learned from burnout, the power of asynchronous work, and the importance of creating agile, efficient teams.
This conversation is packed with insights for leaders seeking to improve organizational flow, reduce workflow waste, and build sustainable businesses while maintaining personal well-being.
Guest Bio
Robert has been involved in free-to-play and real-money gaming for 20 years. Starting with Bwin in Vienna in 2001, Robert was instrumental in the early stages of product development of the sports betting and casino products, specifically being responsible for the launch of Bwin Casino and Bwin Poker.
Robert moved to Berlin in 2010 and headed the Product Development of Crowdpark, an Earlybird and Target-Partners funded venture in the area of social betting. Later, Robert co-founded Crowdbet, taking prediction market technology into the real-money sports betting market.
In 2015, Robert co-founded Glück Games, a real-money lottery game supplier for private and state lottery companies. In 2018, Glück Games merged with Gamevy, a London-based supplier of Instant Win games. Today, the company is called g.games and has multi-year contracts with the state lotteries of Italy, Norway, Turkey, Latvia, Denmark, Morocco, etc.
Today, Robert is the Co-Founder & CEO Hölle Games, an ISO 27001 certified 'Made in Germany' video slots company that also has a Remote Gaming Server (RGS) business-vertical called hinterzimmer.io.
Key Topics Discussed
00:00 – Robert transition into the gaming industry.
04:20 – Questions about the industry's impact.
07:00 – The Tanker vs. Speedboat Metaphor
10:00 – The Impact of Burnout
15:38 – Lessons from Large Organizations
19:45 – Applying Lean Thinking in iGaming
24:00 – The Power of Asynchronous Work
29:30 – Advice for Aspiring Leaders
Memorable Quotes
Important Links
Connect with Robert Lenzhofer:
Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/
Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup
Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/
