Another slice of pure gold pie for your ears, the latest episode of The Gambling Files features Jon and Fintan talking a bit [0:00 – 08:35], then we meet returning guest Alex Pratt of Clarion fame. We discuss the recent ICE Barcelona event's success, the economic impact on the city, and the logistics of navigating the venue. There’s talk about positive feedback from attendees, challenges faced, and the importance of local engagement. The discussion also touches on personal experiences at the eve...
Mar 20, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Season 2Ep. 202
We kick off with some burbling from Fintan Costello and Jon Bruford [0:00 – 7:57] before we meet our guest, Dabble’s Jon Robin, executive director and co-founder. Dabble is a sports betting platform that merges traditional wagering with community engagement. We explore the journey of Dabble from its inception, the challenges of building a platform, the importance of user feedback, and the strategic decision to expand into the US market. Jon shares insights on the affiliate marketing background t...
Mar 12, 2025•1 hr 16 min•Season 2Ep. 201
We celebrate our 200th episode today, and with that milestone, it's only appropriate that Fintan isn't here to record the intro [0:00 – 4:06], so it's just Jon. Yeah, we're skipping that bit too. But wait! Then we're joined by both Fintan and top-guest-who-is-in-no-way-here-because-he-works-for-a-top-sponsor, Mark Schmidt. He's head of sales, Africa for EveryMatrix, and is on to share his insights on the gaming industry, his personal journey through addiction, and the importance of attention to ...
Mar 06, 2025•1 hr 21 min•Season 2Ep. 200
In this episode of the Gambling Files we enjoy the usual flim-flam, see how everybody is doing, discuss favourite cities [0:00 – 18:21]… Then Fintan and Jon meet Gavin Walters and Al Turner, the CCO and CEO of CogniPlay respectively, about their innovative approach to the social casino and sweepstakes market. They discuss the origins of CogniPlay, the unique aspects of their platform, and the current landscape of the gaming industry, particularly in the US. The conversation delves into the cultu...
Feb 27, 2025•59 min•Season 2Ep. 199
As generated by AI – you’ve got to love the technology: “everyday experiences like toilet paper choices”, and “the unpredictable nature of nightlife and personal encounters”. Yes, Jon finally tells the whole sordid story of his karaoke night in Las Vegas. Be warned though, the story is not to everyone’s taste and has, ahem, adult themes. The AI bit: In this episode of the Gambling Files podcast, hosts Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello discuss various topics including Fintan's new executive assista...
Feb 12, 2025•48 min•Season 2Ep. 198
We kick off with the chaps discussing the recent ICE event in Barcelona, which Jon missed some of because he couldn't get in but maintains it's not his fault. Except it really clearly obviously is. We have some of the usual flim-flam and shennanigans [0:00 - 27:05] before we are joined by a really special guest. In this conversation, rare book, map and atlas dealer Daniel Crouch discusses the incredible playing card collection he has been entrusted to sell by a private collector [27:06 – 1:03:11...
Jan 30, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Season 2Ep. 197
Moshe Demri, Optimove’s SVP of revenue and GM, joined us at ICE after we totally coincidentally bumped into him in a recording studio. I know, right? It was the strangest thing, we were just there mooching about and there was this guy and he looked like he knew things so we asked him hey man, do you know about things and he said like yeah, sure I do so we got to talking and like WOAH dude, we should totally record this! So we did. We discuss Optimove’s two announcements at ICE, one of which is O...
Jan 21, 2025•29 min•Season 2Ep. 196
This is a bit os a step outside the usual; it started life intending to be an intro to another episode, but we were enjoying ourselves and it just ran away with us. You could say that this is the punchline to a very long-running joke in this podcast, so for long-time listeners, this is Jon proving that his spectacular schoolfriend Toby is a real live human being. We do not, however, talk about gambling. At all. I mean, Fintan and Jon do a bit in the intro [0:00 - 35:00], but not like the norm. D...
Jan 20, 2025•1 hr 46 min•Season 2Ep. 195
In this episode, Jon sits down with Christine Parkhill, the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of Just Slots, a slot game designer, to explore the fascinating world of online slot development. Christine shares how her team leverages data to create player-centric games and dives into the challenges and rewards of competing in a crowded market. From the psychology of play to the future of personalization, this conversation is packed with insights for anyone curious about the gaming industry. A huge hi...
Jan 14, 2025•1 hr 15 min•Ep. 194
This episode dives into the complexities and quirks of gambling legislation in Alabama, with investigative journalist Josh Moon sharing insightful stories and sharp commentary. Josh and host Jon (Fintan was away today) have a wide-ranging discussion, from the history of gambling in Alabama to the potential for transformative legislative changes. Josh Moon is an investigative journalist with the Alabama Political Reporter who loves tackling the tough questions and digging into the heart of the ma...
Jan 07, 2025•42 min•Ep. 193
In this episode, Jon chats with Andrew Cardno, co-founder and CTO of Quick Custom Intelligence (QCI), about the groundbreaking ways AI and data activation are revolutionizing the gaming and resort industries. We’re thrilled to have Clarion Gaming as a sponsor, the go-to source for all things gaming and gambling! Their dedication to connecting businesses and fostering innovation makes them the MVP of the industry. Shoutout to Optimove , the superheroes of CRM marketing! They help businesses save ...
Dec 31, 2024•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 192
In this episode, Jon and Fintan chat with Conor O'Donovan, African Partner at Tekkorp Capital, about navigating Africa’s diverse gambling markets. Conor shares insights into the challenges of market entry, the role of mobile money in the region’s growth, and Tekkorp’s strategy to create a unified, de-risked portfolio. With a blend of humor and deep expertise, the conversation highlights Africa’s complexity and promise in the global gaming industry. Thanks to Optimove for sponsoring this episode!...
Dec 24, 2024•53 min•Ep. 191
In this episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 190), Motti Colman, VP of iGaming at Optimove, joins Fintan and Jon to explore the intersection of AI and the gambling industry. They discuss how predictive modeling and hyper-personalization are transforming marketing strategies, improving customer experiences, and addressing responsible gambling concerns. In iGaming, players may think the big win is the highlight, but behind the scenes, it’s Optimove ’s CRM software—that's the true MVP. With Optimove, y...
Dec 17, 2024•56 min•Ep. 190
In this episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 189), Alex Pratt of Clarion Gaming and Jon Bruford discuss the monumental task of moving ICE to Barcelona and creating a globally immersive gaming experience. A warm shoutout to EveryMatrix . Their OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions delivers cutting-edge solutions for sportsbook platforms and data feeds, offering real-time and highly accurate data across a variety of markets. We’re proud to have such an innovative partner supporting the podcast!...
Dec 10, 2024•54 min•Ep. 189
In this episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 188), Jon speaks with Paul Speirs-Hernandez about leadership, communication, and cultural transformation. Paul shares insights from his two decades in the gaming industry and his leadership training initiatives, highlighting the importance of positivity and adaptability in personal and professional growth. Big thanks to EveryMatrix and their OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions! With industry-leading accuracy and a wide range of betting markets, y...
Dec 03, 2024•55 min•Ep. 188
This episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 187) features a conversation with Matt Smith, the Director of External Affairs for Bet No More, who shares his personal journey of recovery from gambling and alcoholism. Thanks to our amazing sponsor, EveryMatrix ! Their OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions provides an unmatched number of betting markets, combined with real-time data you can trust. Whether you need full sportsbook services or just top-tier data feeds, they’ve got you covered! Let’s b...
Nov 26, 2024•42 min•Ep. 187
In this episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 186), Leo Judkins, a performance coach and iGaming leader, joins Fintan and Jon to discuss self-care and sustainable performance in iGaming. He also shares practical tips on how to manage distractions, prioritize tasks, and build healthy habits to achieve both personal and professional success. Shoutout to EveryMatrix for sponsoring this episode! Check out their OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions ! Their accurate and real-time data truly sets th...
Nov 19, 2024•52 min•Ep. 186
Join us in this episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 185) for a fascinating conversation with Duncan Garvie, a true pioneer in the online gambling industry. From his early days with ThePOGG.com to his current work with Bet Blocker, Duncan talks about the evolving landscape of online gambling, and how we can create a safer and more responsible industry for all. A huge thank you to our sponsor, EveryMatrix ! They offer a sportsbook platform— OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions —that covers sp...
Oct 22, 2024•1 hr 45 min•Ep. 185
In this episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 184), Jon Bruford and Fintan chat with Kate Chambers to discuss the science behind trade shows in the gaming industry. They explore the importance of evaluating trade show effectiveness, the changing landscape of events, and the power of partnerships and community. We'd like to give a special shoutout to our sponsor, EveryMatrix , and to their OddsMatrix Sports Betting Software Solutions ! If you're in the world of sports betting, their top-notch coverage...
Oct 14, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Ep. 184
In this episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 183), Jon and Fintan talk with the CEO of Transform Gaming. They discuss the company's mission to create safer, free-to-play casino-style games for problem gamblers. They also explore how new technology could be used to detect risky gambling behaviors and offer solutions that promote responsible gaming. Today’s guest is Sina Azeri, a man on a mission to help problem gamblers by creating safer gaming environments. With a passion for innovative technology, ...
Oct 08, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 183
You bet, we thank our sponsor, Optimove ! We hit the ultimate payout with Optimove ! With their CRM software, you’re not just tracking customers—you’re managing high-rollers and casual gamers with the finesse of a blackjack dealer. Now you can double down on personalized offers and never worry about going bust. Thank you Optimove for stacking the deck in our favor! Also big thanks to our sponsor Clarion Gaming and ICE Barcelona 2025 for not only keeping the gaming world connected 365 days a year...
Oct 01, 2024•59 min•Ep. 182
Let’s take a spin and land on the perfect CRM marketing solution for iGaming— Optimove ! Thanks to Optimove’s software, iGaming and Sports Betting operators can keep track of everything without rolling the dice. They make customer retention feel like hitting the jackpot every single day, and for that, we’re throwing confetti their way! In this episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 181), Fintan interviews a seasoned affiliate marketer and entrepreneur to discuss his journey from building a successful ...
Sep 24, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 181
Have you ever needed a toaster that also walks your dog? Yeah, us neither (well, maybe Jon). But you know what you do need? Optimove ’s awesome CRM marketing solution. Also, you definitely need to check out Clarion Gaming ’s cool network and brands. They actually make useful stuff for gamers! How has the integration of AI changed the landscape of online poker? What is the future of poker in a world where technology, regulation, and player behavior are constantly evolving? In today’s episode (The...
Sep 17, 2024•1 hr 32 min•Ep. 180
If we were forced to choose between Optimove and Clarion Gaming , we’d be screwed—because we can’t live without Optimove’s awesome CRM marketing solution or without Clarion Gaming’s cool network and brands. Hey sponsors, we see you, and we thank you. Today’s guest is Isabelle Zanzer, a Regulatory Compliance Specialist and Sustainability Integrator with CompliancePlay, a regulatory consultancy firm for the iGaming industry. Isabelle discusses her unique approach to compliance, focusing on solutio...
Sep 10, 2024•1 hr 28 min•Ep. 179
Fintan and Jon were this close to broadcasting from a cardboard box when Optimove and Clarion Gaming burst in with their sponsorships, amazing CRM marketing solution ( Optimove ), and awesome multi-platform network of live and digital brands ( Clarion Gaming ). They’re the real MVPs—Most Valuable Podcasters! How is artificial intelligence currently being used in gambling? Also, in the future, what do we have to look forward to (and to fear)? Your hosts spoke with two AI/gambling experts to get s...
Sep 03, 2024•1 hr 33 min•Ep. 178
Just when Jon and Fintan thought they had run out of brilliant yet awkward banter, Optimove and Clarion Gaming swooped in and saved the day! Faster than a speeding bullet, more reliable than a Wi-Fi connection, they’re the hero sponsors we all need! Rosalind Wade is today’s guest. Roz is the CEO of Winna Media, which creates small, intimate, bespoke events that promote relationship building and networking (as compared to ginormous expos that often fail at actually building meaningful relationshi...
Aug 27, 2024•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 177
Three cheers to the peeps at Optimove and Clarion Gaming for helping The Gambling Files Podcast share our wisdom directly into your earbuds or onto your screens. Today’s guest is Malcolm Wilkinson, the founder of We The Bookie, a socially responsible bookmaker. You might ask: How responsible are they? Well, at the end of each month, We The Bookie returns 50% of all gross revenue back to customers. In a nutshell: * Jon learns that he’s got an avoidant attachment type of personality (whatever that...
Aug 20, 2024•1 hr 32 min•Ep. 176
Behind the scenes with gambling, what happened with the 2024 UEFA European Football Championship and England’s loss to Spain? One of our wonderful sponsors— Optimove —provided us with this episode’s guest. But that doesn’t mean that we’re any less grateful to Clarion Gaming for also helping us bring you The Gambling Files Podcast. Optimove’s Jonathan Collins joins Fintan in the Gambling Files studio today. Our guest is a Strategic Services Team Leader at Optimove, a leading customer relationship...
Aug 13, 2024•38 min
Have you clicked on our sponsors yet? Don’t do it. Optimove is here , and Clarion Gaming is here . Whatever you do, don’t click on ’em, thanks. (Please let us know if our reverse psychology worked on you ... or didn’t!) The UK’s Gambling Commission recently released some statistics on the prevalence of problem and at-risk gambling. What do these stats mean? And how are these stats different from the results of previous studies? Returning to the show to discuss these messy numbers is Melanie Elli...
Aug 06, 2024•1 hr 13 min
Thanks to our awesome sponsors Optimove and Clarion Gaming for helping us bring The Gambling Files Podcast to you. In this episode, Jon, Fintan, and their guest Björn Nilsson explore options for companies that have no operations or legal footprint in particular regions of the world, yet can still earn revenue related to traffic exchanges between brands in different markets. With over 20 years in the online gaming industry, Björn is the CEO of FTDx, a platform that converts visits from regions ou...
Jul 30, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 173
