Ep. 166 features Steve “Dakota” Happas and Sahil Patel from FantasySpin, a real-money DFS platform reinventing the fantasy experience through a gamified, slot-style draft mechanic. This episode was recorded on-site at SBC Summit North America 2025 in Fort Lauderdale. Hear them discuss:
- How a friendly fantasy football bet led to the founding of BettorFantasy
- Steve’s journey from online poker and dating platforms to fantasy sports
- Why the two companies merged to form FantasySpin and how the deal came together
- How their slot-style drafting system introduces luck, skill, and replayability
- Why FantasySpin rewards users even when players in their lineup don’t play
- The biggest lessons from their first full NFL season post-merger
- How their gameplay translates into highly engaging, video-first marketing
- Why their future plans include spin-to-pick hybrid formats and arcade modes
- How they’re self-funding growth while selectively exploring strategic capital
- Their long-term vision to become the next billion-dollar DFS platform
Catch the video version of this episode here.
Learn more 👇
➡️ FantasySpin website
➡️ Steve Happas on Linkedin
➡️ Sahil Patel on Linkedin
The Canadian Gaming Summit is happening June 17–19 in Toronto! Don’t miss out — get 50% off your Full Event Pass using code BETTINGSTARTUPSVIP at checkout. Grab your ticket now: https://sbcevents.com/canadian-gaming-summit/ticket-options/
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This podcast is presented by Optimove, the #1 CRM Marketing solution for the iGaming industry. Since 2012, Optimove has served iGaming Operators from startups to industry leaders. Today, 4 out of the Top 5 US Operators Personalize Player Experiences with Optimove. iGaming operators know their growth journey begins and continues with Optimove, the #1 CRM Marketing solution for the iGaming industry.
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