In this insightful interview, Craig Shacklett, CEO of URComped, sits down with Juan Romero, CEO of Volante Software, and James O'Kimosh, Senior Slot Director at Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment, to discuss the challenges and strategies behind implementing new systems in casinos. From identifying operational pain points to evaluating vendor solutions, this discussion covers how Desert Diamond approaches innovation—from budgeting and measuring ROI to team buy-in and successful rollouts. ...
Jun 17, 2025•37 min
Jim Sulima, Director of Player Development at Rocky Gap Casino Resort, joins URComped CEO Craig Shacklett to explore effective strategies for reactivating and retaining casino players. The discussion dives into key topics such as identifying inactive players, understanding why they disengage, and analyzing their responses. Sulima shares practical tactics for bringing players back, the best approaches to take once they return to the property, and how to ensure long-term retention. The conversatio...
Jun 12, 2025•15 min
Nick Ippolito, Player Development Mentor AKA "The Host Whisperer," offers a unique perspective on player development within the rapidly growing iGaming space in this interview with URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett. Nick shares the differences between online and in-person gaming environments, the critical importance of building genuine relationships, and actionable insights for hosts looking to elevate their game. He also dives into the surprising power of vulnerability in sales, highlighting how au...
Jun 10, 2025•20 min
In this special interview, URComped CEO Craig Shacklett sits down with Vince Lentini, VP of Casino for Margaritaville at Sea, to uncover everything casino players need to know about sailing with this tropical-themed cruise line. Vince dives into the exciting details of the new Players Club loyalty program, including the exclusive Tide Rollers benefit, how players can qualify for offers, and how to book future casino cruises. The conversation also touches on what makes Margaritaville at Sea uniqu...
Jun 10, 2025•18 min
Dennis Conrad , Lifetime Achievement Award winner in Casino Marketing and Founder of Raving Consulting, has spent over 5 decades impacting the industry with his innovative approach and keen business perception. In this interview with Craig Shacklett, URComped CEO, Conrad reflects on his journey- how he climbed the ranks, made pivotal career shifts, and built Raving Consulting. Dennis has always been driven by a passion for creating value and seizing new opportunities. He also shares insights on ...
Apr 09, 2025•1 hr 6 min
In this Casino Innovators interview, Angel Espino , Principal and Creative Director of Casino Gaming Development, sits down with URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett to discuss the world of casino game creation. Espino shares his journey into the industry, the secrets behind successful game ideas, and what it takes to develop a game that captures both players' interest and operators' approval. They dive into the key factors that make a field test successful, how gaming developers get paid, and the long...
Apr 07, 2025•43 min
In this episode of Casino Innovators, we dive into the dynamic world where music meets marketing with Nathan Green, CEO and co-founder of New Level Radio. Specializing in customized music, messaging, and marketing for the gaming and hospitality industry, New Level Radio helps casinos curate a specialized atmosphere from their playlists and promotions. Nathan shares how he started the company, why New Level Radio stands out, the onboarding process, music licensing, and more with URComped CEO, Cra...
Mar 31, 2025•23 min
Inventor of Double 4 More Blackjack, Zach Brownson , joins URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett , for our Casino Innovators Interview Series to talk about their new table game, which won 2025 Best New Table Game of the Year! In this engaging conversation, they explore the journey from concept to casino floor, diving into the inspiration behind Double 4 More Blackjack , the rigorous testing and mathematical calculations involved, and the challenges of bringing a new game to market. They also break down ...
Mar 25, 2025•19 min
In this interview, Jim Sulima , Director of Player Development at Rocky Gap Casino Resort , discusses with URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett , the strategies and best practices for fostering meaningful connections with players, from crafting the right pitch for new guests to ensuring effective follow-up cadences. We’ll explore the nuances of communication, including topics to avoid, handling player comparisons of offers, and maintaining gaming transparency. Additionally, Sulima will provide insights...
Mar 18, 2025•20 min
Nick Ippolito , Player Development Mentor AKA "The Host Whisperer," has returned from the Philippines' Solaire Resorts with some incredible insights on this international casino's operation and their exceeding example in customer service. Ippolito digs into the delicate balance of player development sales tactics, the world of VIP casino salons, and the differences of casino operations in the Philippines with URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett. From navigating the sales approaches across different cu...
Mar 12, 2025•27 min
In the fast-growing world of iGaming and sports betting, VIP hosting is now a major component. In this interview we discuss the importance of building relationships in a virtual environment, how it differs from traditional player development, the unique ways hosts can enhance the player experience, and more. Jim Sulima, Director of Player Development at Rocky Gap Casino Resort, discusses with URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett, how iGaming comps are structured, the crossover between sports betting an...
Mar 04, 2025•15 min
When it comes to standing out in the competitive Las Vegas market, Ellis Island Casino has built a reputation for its strong customer connections, creative promotions, and a commitment to evolving with the needs of its guests. As a family-owned casino, Ellis Island brings a unique approach to hospitality, offering a more personal and engaging experience that keeps customers coming back. In this interview with Nik Fava , Ellis Island’s Director of Casino Marketing, we’ll explore what makes Ellis ...
Mar 04, 2025•33 min
In this exciting interview, URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett sits down with Bobby Rivas, the creative force behind the @Bluffinbob Channel, to dive into the journey of one of the most exciting gambling content creators today. From Bobby’s life before launching Bluffin Bob to the strategies that have fueled the channel’s rapid growth, they cover it all—including the challenges of filming in casinos, brand investment, where the channel money comes from, and the content creators who inspired him. Bobb...
Feb 14, 2025•37 min
In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, staying ahead of the competition requires innovative marketing strategies that captivate audiences and drive real results. In this educational interview, Anthony Chiaravallo, CEO of Vallo Medio, dives deep into the world of cutting-edge advertising techniques with URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett. From unlocking social media success through creative ad strategies to mastering AI-powered campaigns that optimize performance, this conversation is packed with in...
Feb 10, 2025•32 min
Lots of casinos are missing opportunities to engage local audiences as well as reach new ones. “Many potential guests don’t even know what you have to offer,” Justin Shank states in his recent article on Tribal Gaming and Hospitality. In this interview, Katie Vanpool, URComped Marketing Manager speaks with Justin Shank, CEO of Shank Marketing, about insights from his article, “Keys to Engaging Locals and Reaching New Audiences,” emphasizing the importance of using social media and digital advert...
Feb 04, 2025•36 min
The way you market impacts your casino brand. Marketing for casinos can be done in a variety of forms like commercials, billboards, digital ads, content and influencers, direct mail, email campaigns, and so much more. One of the most important, in our opinion, is Experience Marketing. This marketing strategy focuses on creating memorable moments and crafting unique experiences that customers will remember and talk about. The power of moments lies in discovering what resonates with the guests, by...
Dec 23, 2024•44 min
URComped's Customer Success Manager, Berkeley Adams, interviewed Sam and Chris from 'SC Slots' and learned how their successful YouTube channel originated from their daughters' idea... Check out Sam and Chris here: www.youtube.com/@SCSlots Watch full video: https://youtu.be/SJI7Sgl0ovQ Learn more: Learn more: https://trio360.vip/the-rise-of-casino-influencers-sc-slots-video/ In this Influencer Interview Series: Slots, Table Games, and Video Poker Channels as well as Casino Tips, Insights and Tou...
Nov 21, 2024•31 min
URComped's Customer Success Manager, Berkeley Adams, interviewed Jessica and Rob from 'Las Vegas Slots' and learned how their move across the country flourished into a family business. Check out Las Vegas Slots here: www.youtube.com/@UCLeI-qwkR9NtXKXsSdE8T0Q Learn more: https://trio360.vip/the-rise-of-casino-influencers-las-vegas-slots-video/ In this Influencer Interview Series: Slots, Table Games, and Video Poker Channels as well as Casino Tips, Insights and Tours are breaking stride in Casino ...
Oct 30, 2024•44 min
URComped's Customer Success Manager, Berkeley Adams, interviewed Rich and Jazzy from 'a RICH and JAZZY life' to learn how their story went from vlogging to capture memories to community cruising and receiving brand deals. Check out Rich and Jazzy here: www.youtube.com/ @aRICHandJAZZYLife Watch full video and learn more: https://trio360.vip/the-rise-of-casino-influencers-a-rich-and-jazzy-life-video/ In this Influencer Interview Series: Slots, Table Games, and Video Poker Channels as well as Casin...
Oct 25, 2024•27 min
Casino marketing through storytelling is a strategic process. Training for Winners CEO, Gary Hernbroth, explains to URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett,, how understanding your customers and effectively communicating with them is crucial. Hernbroth echoes his book, "Twist the Familiar," on how to create a business plan for individuals seeking success. Topics Discussed: - Seeing the sale through the customer's eyes - Storytelling and sales presentations - Casino marketing - Stronger connection with the...
Sep 10, 2024•44 min
Chalkline addresses a common casino issue—lack of player data—by using sports-based Predictive Freeplay games. CEO of Chalkline Sports, Daniel Kustelski, explains how Chalkline collects provides valuable player data to casinos, drives new trips, and more in this interview with Craig Shacklett, URComped CEO. Watch full video and learn more: https://trio360.vip/casino-innovators-chalkline-on-predictive-freeplay-games-video/ In this Innovators Interview Series: The casino industry has massive amoun...
Sep 10, 2024•23 min
How long do you have with a customer to grab their attention and make an impact? Nick Ippolito, Player Development Mentor AKA "The Host Whisperer," explains to URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett, how to make the most of your relationship with a customer. This topic alongside telemarketing in the casino industry, transparency, negotiating, and much more is discussed in today’s Cocktails at the Tangiers. Watch full video and learn more: https://trio360.vip/transparency-with-customers-cocktails-at-the-t...
Sep 04, 2024•19 min
Imagine inventing something that shapes the future of an ENTIRE industry. Craig Shacklett, URComped CEO, interviews AGA’s Gaming Hall of Famer, John Acres, Founder of Acres, to explore his remarkable journey in the casino industry. John began his groundbreaking career in the 70s and has since become a major innovator, holding over 250 patents. He founded multiple successful companies, including Acres Gaming, which was acquired for $143 million by IGT. Through this discussion, Shacklett and Acres...
Aug 30, 2024•51 min
URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett, interviews "BD Slots and the Mrs. of BD Slots" to learn more about how the channel got started and to dive into the burgeoning field of influencer marketing within the casino industry. Check out BD Slots here: / @bdslots Watch full video and learn more: https://trio360.vip/the-rise-of-casino-influencers-bd-slots-interview-video/ In this Influencer Interview Series: Slots, Table Games, and Video Poker Channels as well as Casino Tips, Insights and Tours are breaking ...
Aug 27, 2024•18 min
URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett, interviews Jon Deli, NJ Slot Guy, to dive into the burgeoning field of influencer marketing within the casino industry. Check out NJ Slot Guy here: https://www.youtube.com/@NJslotguy Watch full video and learn more: https://trio360.vip/the-rise-of-casino-influencers-nj-slot-guy-interview-video/ In this Influencer Interview Series: Slots, Table Games, and Video Poker Channels as well as Casino Tips, Insights and Tours are breaking stride in Casino space. Influencers...
Aug 13, 2024•30 min
Have you ever strolled through a casino and thought, "Who invented all these games?" or "How did they create this?" We have the answers! URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett, interviews Domenico Pastia, SVP of Global Product for IGT. Together, they explore the creation of slot machines, the origin of ideas, provide a demo of IGT's latest release, "Tiger and Dragon," and more. Topics discussed - How do gaming manufacturers come up with new ideas for slot machines? - Slot Machine "studio" meaning - Do ne...
Jul 31, 2024•17 min
Following a controversial comment about removing freeplay, Nick Ippolito, Player Development Mentor AKA “The Host Whisperer,” explains his reasoning to URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett. Not only is Freeplay on the burner, but Nick also questions other PD systems, comps, host actions and more! Topics Discussed: Eliminate comp buckets and points When should casinos use freeplay What could replace Freeplay The Comp Transaction Watch interview: https://youtu.be/mfAETaFQIj8...
Jul 22, 2024•14 min
Agua Caliente Resort Casino Spa Rancho Mirage epitomizes luxury with its 16-story building, boasting 340 lavish rooms and suites equipped with top-notch amenities. Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage boasts a sprawling 77,000-square-foot casino floor, renowned for its top-notch slots and table games. In this interview with Tom Bonanne, VP of Player Development at Agua Caliente Resort Casinos, and URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett, they discuss information about the property, comps for players, the casino fl...
Jun 25, 2024•24 min
Back in high demand, Nick Ippolito Player Development Mentor AKA "The Host Whisperer," discusses with URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett, how to build a casino player development program from the ground up. Stemming from a YouTube comment, this interview tackles important data metrics to consider when building a PD program, using that data to structure PD, and more! Topics Discussed: Using results versus testimonials Importance of Data How do you start a Player Development Program PD data versus Mark...
Jun 13, 2024•21 min
URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett, interviews, Matt "Mr. Blackjack" Blake to learn more about how the channel got started and to dive into the burgeoning field of influencer marketing within the casino industry. Check out Never Split 10s here: https://www.youtube.com/@neversplit10s In this Influencer Interview Series: Slots, Table Games, and Video Poker Channels as well as Casino Tips, Insights and Tours are breaking stride in Casino space. Influencers are using their contagious energy and unique pe...
Jun 11, 2024•16 min
