The Casino Business Podcast

Craig Shacklett
  • 5.0 (7)
  • NEWS
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

Join URComped and TRIO360 CEO, Craig Shacklett, as he speaks with industry experts on the latest news, trends, and tips every casino executive should know.

  1. 6H AGO

    Leveling Up iGaming Loyalty: How Spin Pass Brings Video Game Innovation from Console to Casinos

    From console to casino. In this exclusive interview, URComped CEO Craig Shacklett sits down with Rebecca Martin, CEO and Founder of Spin Pass, to explore how video game-inspired technology is redefining loyalty in the iGaming world. Drawing from proven engagement mechanics found in the video game industry, Spin Pass introduces a modern, dynamic approach to player loyalty that goes far beyond traditional points and rewards-based programs. Rebecca discusses the vision behind Spin Pass, the gap it was built to solve in iGaming, and how bringing new ideas from the video gaming world into the casino environment is driving deeper engagement, stronger retention, and measurable results for operators.  Topics Discussed:  - Overview of Spin Pass - Spin Pass's focus within the gaming and iGaming ecosystem - Video game industry influences behind Spin Pass's concept - The unmet gap in iGaming that Spin Pass was designed to solve - Explanation of loot boxes and battle Passes - How Spin Pass elevates player loyalty and engagement - Bringing video game–style progression into casino gaming - Key differences between Spin Pass and traditional casino loyalty programs - Unique advantages and competitive differentiation of Spin Pass - Measurable results and outcomes operators have achieved using Spin Pass Types of operators who benefit from Spin Pass Learn more: https://trio360.vip/leveling-up-igaming-loyalty-how-spin-pass-brings-video-game-innovation-from-console-to-casinos/

    27 min

  2. JAN 6

    Behind the Show Floor: An Inside Look at the Global Gaming Expo

    In this exclusive interview, URComped CEO Craig Shacklett sits down with the Event Vice President of G2E, Korbi Carrison, to explore how the industry's premier gaming conference has evolved over time. From a look back at what gaming conventions were like before G2E, to the early days that shaped the show's foundation, the conversation traces G2E's growth alongside the rapid transformation of the industry. Together, they dive into how success is measured year over year, the trends and buzzwords that have defined past and present shows, and the emerging topics shaping the future. The discussion also covers how G2E stays relevant and continues to pivot with innovation. Topics Discussed:  - G2E's history and evolution - What gaming conventions looked like before G2E - The role of the American Gaming Association in the early days - How G2E measures success year over year - Trending topics from G2E this year and the buzzwords that defined past shows - How G2E identifies, plans for, and pivots with emerging industry trends - Strategies keeping G2E relevant  - Fun and notable stats from G2E 2025 - What G2E leadership looks forward to each year when planning the event - How G2E manages competitive businesses coexisting on the show floor - Where G2E is headed and how the expo may evolve over the next few years - The presence and role of regulators at G2E - G2E 2026 Learn more: https://trio360.vip/behind-the-show-floor-an-inside-look-at-the-global-gaming-expo/

    20 min

  3. 12/08/2025

    Optimizing the Casino Floor: Tangam Systems Turning Data Into Revenue

    In this insightful interview, Craig Shacklett, CEO of URComped, sits down with Ari Mizrachi, Senior Vice President and Head of North America Business for Tangam Systems, to explore how data-driven intelligence is transforming the casino floor. Together, they dive into why Ari was drawn to Tangam's mission, how the company is bridging the gap between operations and marketing, and the ways their technology brings science to an industry long driven by instinct. From optimizing table games to adapting layouts based on player behavior, this conversation uncovers how Tangam empowers operators to make smarter decisions, elevate the player experience, and ultimately maximize revenue. Topics Discussed:  - Ari's background in the casino space - What attracted Ari to Tangam systems - What problem Tangam Systems solves for operators - How Tangam systems bring operations and marketing together using data - Using data to determine optimization and make decisions that ultimately maximize revenue  - Changing the floor to accommodate customer behaviors and trends to create a better experience for them - What results do casinos see after using Tangam Systems - How 'Real-Time' is Tangam Systems - TYM or Table Yield Management  - What is SODA - Slot Optimization - How marketing gets value from Tangam Systems Data - Tangam Systems' onboarding time - Looking ahead 3-5 years - Crossover trend

    29 min

  4. 12/02/2025

    Nigel Eccles on building FanDuel and BetHog, product led growth and the future of iGaming

    One of the most influential innovators in modern gaming—Nigel Eccles, co-founder of FanDuel and current CEO and co-founder of BetHog joins URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett, for a conversation about his product's growth and development. In this interview, Nigel takes us inside the origin story of FanDuel: how the idea first sparked, how early prediction-market experiments led to a dramatic pivot, and what the team learned as they navigated the early stages of building what would become a daily fantasy sports powerhouse. He reflects on the customer feedback that shifted FanDuel's model, how the company attracted and retained players in a rapidly expanding and competitive marketplace, and the mindset required to grow while knowing big challengers were inevitably coming. Nigel also dives into his newest venture, BetHog.com—explaining what it is, how crypto casinos fit into today's gaming landscape, why the platform is focused on international markets, and what the player experience looks like when gaming with crypto. He shares what differentiates BetHog, how VIP interactions work, and how the company is pushing boundaries with Sunny, the world's first AI dealer, designed to bring more social, human-like interaction into online gaming. Topics Discussed:  How Nigel developed the idea for FanDuel using prediction markets The early stages and development of FanDuel How customer feedback initiated the FanDuel model change. Determining the price for players on FanDuel  What was the strategy for competition What is BetHog.com How Crypto Casinos fit into the current market BetHog's international growth focus What is the process to play in a crypto casino What differentiates BetHog VIP interactions  New product Sunny- the Worlds first AI dealer Using AI to create more social elements Learn More: https://trio360.vip/nigel-eccles-on-building-fanduel-and-bethog-product-led-growth-and-the-future-of-igaming/

    29 min

  5. 11/06/2025

    Adapting Casino Player Development Strategy: Cocktails at the Tangiers - Nick Ippolito Interview

    In this interview, URComped CEO Craig Shacklett sits down with Nick Ippolito, Player Development Mentor and "The Host Whisperer," to unpack how casino player development really works across markets. Kicking off with Nick's article "I'm Not Talking About Vegas!", the conversation explains why blanket advice fails outside destination markets and how hosts must tailor strategy to property realities like comp percentages, visit frequency, tax environments, and leadership maturity. Topics: The inspiration behind "I'm Not Talking About Vegas" and the responsibility of industry voices How casino markets differ globally: Vegas vs. regional vs. international properties Defining "true player development" and how it originated in Atlantic City The evolution of telemarketing and its influence on today's host model Adapting training and PD strategy for each property and demographic The challenge of player loyalty in the modern casino environment Property-specific comp policies, taxes, and leadership differences The importance of staying in your lane and specializing within casino operations Upcoming news and conferences in casino player development   Learn more: https://trio360.vip/adapting-casino-player-development-strategy-cocktails-at-the-tangiers-nick-ippolito-interview/

    20 min

  6. 09/16/2025

    Casino Tax Rules: Tracking Wins, Losses & Deductions, & More!

    In this interview, Hawk Tax Solutions Tax Director and Enrolled Agent Ashley Davis joins URComped CEO Craig Shacklett to answer some of the most common gambling accounting and tax questions players face. She breaks down what qualifies as a professional gambler, how to properly track wins and losses, and which expenses can be deducted. The conversation also covers tricky areas like sweepstakes casinos, crypto play, state-to-state taxation, and how content creation can support professional claims.   Topics Discussed: - Why sweepstakes casino losses don't offset winnings - How to keep an acceptable gambling journal or win-loss record - Criteria for qualifying as a professional gambler, even with a day job - Using YouTube or content creation to support professional status claims - Deductible expenses for professional gamblers (travel, software, coaching, tournaments, ATM fees) - Tax treatment of daily fantasy sports, offshore casinos, and crypto gambling - State taxation issues and when it makes sense to itemize losses   Learn more: https://urcomped.com/blog/details/6131103/casino-tax-rules-tracking-wins-losses-deductions-more

    31 min

  7. 09/09/2025

    Inside Tribal iGaming: Choctaw's Digital Strategy

    In this interview, URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett, sits down with Robert Christensen, Director of Digital Gaming at Choctaw Casino, for an in-depth look at the evolving world of online gaming through the lens of tribal operations. From the launch of Choctaw's Social Casino to the nuances of Class II versus Class III gaming, Christensen breaks down complex regulatory frameworks, the rise of sweepstakes and prediction markets, and Choctaw's strategic approach to digital gaming within sovereign tribal lands. The conversation also explores how European markets have influenced U.S. iGaming development, the growing tension between traditional and gray market operators, and how data-driven personalization is reshaping online player experiences.   Topics Discussed: Robert Christensen's Role Definitions & Distinctions in Online Gaming What are Social Casinos, Sweepstakes Casinos, iGaming, Prediction Markets, etc. and how are they different? Legal and Regulatory Landscape What are Class 2 games What is IGRA and how does it work What are compacts? Choctaw's Strategic Focus Expanding mobile gaming access beyond reservation boundaries Tribal Sovereignty & Class II Gaming European Influence & Technology Partnerships The Future of Online Gaming in the U.S. Barriers for iGaming development Casino Marketing: Digital vs. Brick-and-Mortar Responsible Gaming & Industry Ethics Learn more: https://trio360.vip/inside-tribal-igaming-choctaws-digital-strategy/

    32 min

  8. 08/16/2025

    Edge Boost: The Debit Card Revolutionizing Access to Gaming Funds

    In this interview, URComped CEO Craig Shacklett speaks with Edge Boost Founder and CEO Seni Thomas about his innovative payment solution designed to streamline how gamers access funds while playing. They explore how the company's unique approach provides a solution to payment bottlenecks, offering gamers a secure and efficient way to access funds. The discussion explores the benefits of Edge Boost's innovative product, including its high debit card limit, and how it's reshaping the way payments are handled in both land-based and online gaming.  Sign up for Edge Boost today and get a $75 deposit match with promo code "urcomped"! Start accessing your funds faster and smarter here: https://www.vcx5res.com/URCOMPED/ Topics Discussed: Introduction to Edge Boost and its mission to simplify gaming payments Common issues with traditional payment systems in gaming The Edge Boost solution: secure, high-limit transactions without declines Key features of the product and how it works across both land-based and online platforms Partnerships with major casino brands and expansion plans Edge Boost's impact on reducing payment friction for gamers   Learn more: https://urcomped.com/blog/details/5602060/edge-boost-the-debit-card-revolutionizing-access-to-gaming-funds

    26 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Join URComped and TRIO360 CEO, Craig Shacklett, as he speaks with industry experts on the latest news, trends, and tips every casino executive should know.

Information

  • Creator
    Craig Shacklett
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    173
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    Copyright © URC Technologies 2018. All Rights Reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Casino Business Podcast

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