iGaming Player Development: Cocktails at the Tangiers
Release Date: 06/10/2025
The Casino Business Podcast
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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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 more. Read the article here: Topics Discussed: - Ippolito's time at Soboba Casino - Casino security issues - Non-gaming employees and player development - How...
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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 also dives into how Fontainebleau Las Vegas compares to its iconic Miami counterpart, how the resort caters to both locals and loyal players through its rewards...
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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. The discussion explores the range of games offered, how it works for the players, removes intimidation, and how the system still brings a social atmosphere. They...
info_outlineNick 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 authenticity can turn into a lasting connection.
Topics Discussed:
- Ippolito's recent experience with iGaming.
- Differences between iGaming and Traditional Casinos
- Importance of Building Relationships
- How hosts can build relationships
- Vulnerability in sales and relationship-building
Blog: https://trio360.vip/igaming-player-development-cocktails-at-the-tangiers-nick-ippolito-interview-video/