The Casino Business Podcast

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 ta...

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 Cho...

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 it...

After releasing the article, "The Elephant In The Room: Casino Security," Nick Ippolito, Player Development Mentor AKA "The Host Whisperer,"  joins URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett in a deep discussion about customer service. The conversation covers Ippolito's experience at Soboba Casino, issues around casino security, the role of non-gaming employees in player development, the significance of understanding player experiences, and mor...

In this engaging interview, URComped CEO Craig Shacklett sits down with Kevin Sweet, Senior Vice President of Slot Marketing and Operations at Fontainebleau Las Vegas, to explore what makes this stunning new property on the Strip a must-visit destination. From exclusive gaming experiences and top-tier dining to luxurious rooms and unforgettable entertainment, Sweet gives an insider's look at what guests can expect. The conversation...

In this interview, URComped CEO Craig Shacklett speaks with Jaimie McGuiness, Marketing Manager, and Charleyn Jacobson, Casino Operations Manager at Hollywood Casino Gulf Coast, about the innovative EZ Play Zone powered by Interblock and how it's reshaping traditional table games with modern technology. They break down what makes EZ Play special, including its hybrid design combining electronic betting with live dealer interaction....

In this exciting interview, URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett sits down with Melissa Newman, AKA 'Professor Melissa,' to go behind the scenes of this cruise content creator. We dive into her journey—from what she was doing before launching her channel to the moment she decided to share her perspective with the world. Known for her viral and sometimes controversial videos, Professor Melissa opens up about what sets her content apart, th...

In this exciting interview, URComped CEO, Craig Shacklett sits down with Melissa Newman, AKA 'Professor Melissa,' to go behind the scenes of this cruise content creator. We dive into her journey—from what she was doing before launching her channel to the moment she decided to share her perspective with the world. Known for her viral and sometimes controversial videos, Professor Melissa opens up about what sets her content apart, th...

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 budgeti...

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...

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 ...

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 co...

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 ...

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 fie...

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 onb...

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 chal...

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 g...

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 Sha...

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 iGam...