NEXT.io Podcast

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• Todd Haushalter: Lawsuits, Deepfakes & the New Blackjack. The Unfiltered Truth. 15.06.2026 1ч 49мин

  🎙️ NEXT.io Podcast #265 with Todd Haushalter, Chief Product Officer at Evolution.Todd Haushalter, Chief Product Officer at Evolution, sits down for an unfiltered conversation covering everything the industry is talking about — lawsuits against Light & Wonder and Playtech, why he thinks AI deepfake live dealers are "dead on arrival," and what Evolution's monster 2026 game roadmap looks like.⏰ Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro & Sponsors 01:34 - Todd & Pierre: back together 03:28 - Two years at Evolution: what's really changed 04:46 - Suing Light & Wonder over Lightning Roulette 06:25 - The Playtech dossier: how industrial espionage works 13:55 - Is Evolution becoming a value stock? 19:12 - AI-generated games: threat or noise? 20:34 - Deepfake live dealers: why Todd calls it a catastrophic failure 36:20 - Brands vs. AI slots: who wins when games are infinite? 44:26 - The Hasbro deal and the brand-first strategy 52:19 - Competition in live casino: is the iron grip loosening? 58:48 - Aviator: the most impressive success story in iGaming 01:03:51 - Acquisition rumours and Evolution's M&A strategy 01:14:01 - The $2 billion share buyback explained 01:19:18 - Cybercrime in Asia: what can actually be said 01:22:10 - European regulatory headwinds and revenue pullbacks 01:28:01 - Prediction markets: where does Evolution fit? 01:34:13- The investment case for Evolution right now 01:42:20 - Todd's 3 predictions for the next 3 years🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhXvQfFm7GE&list=PLo43Fota-gt1sMzujpavaGmRbTiRXETKECONNECT WITH ⁠NEXT.IO⁠✩ Website: ⁠https://next.io/⁠This episode of ⁠NEXT.io⁠ is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technology⁠https://pragmatic.solutions/⁠Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content provider⁠https://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/⁠Sponsored by:Hard Rock Games: ⁠https://www.hardrockgames.com/⁠Creedroomz: ⁠https://www.creedroomz.com/
• The Man Who Predicted Prediction Markets 8 Years Ago | Alex Kane, Sporttrade 04.06.2026 1ч 5мин

  🎙️ NEXT.io Podcast #265 with Alexander Kane, CEO and Founder of SporttradeIn 2017 - a full year before the US Supreme Court even legalized sports betting - Alex Kane was already building something nobody asked for: a sports exchange.Now, prediction markets are valued higher than Flutter, the world's biggest gambling company. So was Alex just early, or did he see something everyone else missed?⏰ Timestamps:00:00 - Intro & Sponsors01:33 - Who is Alex Kane and what is Sporttrade?02:28 - The Robinhood moment that sparked the idea04:40 - Why Betfair failed and why the US is different08:11 - The early years: building a sports exchange before it was legal11:35 - Where Sporttrade fits in the prediction market boom today16:56 - Why the boom happened now and not before22:06 -The impossible debate: is this gambling or a financial tool?28:21 -Both things can be true 31:46 -Exchange model vs. house model and responsible gambling37:08 - Market manipulation: the hardest unsolved problem41:18 - Kalshi at $22B vs Flutter: bubble or breakthrough?45:00 - What are perpetual futures and why do they matter?49:31 - Prediction markets as a top-of-funnel product56:08 - What happens to DraftKings and FanDuel?01:01:44 - Alex's 3 predictions for the industry in 3 years🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTYoutube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhXvQfFm7GE&list=PLo43Fota-gt1sMzujpavaGmRbTiRXETKECONNECT WITH NEXT.IO✩ Website: https://next.io/This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technologyhttps://pragmatic.solutions/Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content providerhttps://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/Sponsored by:Hard Rock Games: https://www.hardrockgames.com/Creedroomz: https://www.creedroomz.com/
• Kevin Mullally: The UAE opportunity 23.04.2026 57мин

  🎙️ NEXT.io Podcast #263 with Kevin Mullally, CEO, International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR)In this episode, Pierre sits down with Kevin to break down the current state of the UAE's iGaming market, the global battle against the black market, the fracture inside the American Gaming Association, and why prediction markets may be gambling's next regulatory crisis.Kevin Mullally built one of the most closely watched new gaming regulators in the world from scratch, in under six months. As the former CEO of the UAE's General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) and now CEO of the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR), Kevin brings a rare perspective on what modern regulation should look like and what the global industry is getting dangerously wrong.⏰ Timestamps:00:00 - Intro00:42 - Sponsor messages02:01 - Introduction: Kevin Mullally & UAE market overview02:59 - Building the UAE regulator from scratch05:31 - Rethinking regulation: compliance vs enforcement08:46 - Policy goals: why the UAE regulates gaming10:13 - UAE strategy: ecosystem over revenue 13:43 - Land-based market structure (Emirates approach)16:47 - Licensing progress: Wynn, lottery & early milestones18:32 - Online market structure & licensing model22:25 - B2B opportunity: “technology should lead”25:02 - Case study: Yolo & entering the UAE market30:14 - Relationship-first approach to market entry33:29 - IAGR: global regulation & role of collaboration37:06 - The black market problem (global perspective)39:14 - Regulation vs illegal markets: growing tension44:43 - What works in fighting the black market46:04 - Need for global collaboration48:25 - Prediction markets vs regulation50:01 - State rights, consumer protection & policy conflict53:03 - Future of regulation: need for global dialogue56:00 - Closing thoughts🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nextdotio/podcasts CONNECT WITH NEXT.IO✩ Website: https://next.io/This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technologyhttps://pragmatic.solutions/Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content providerhttps://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/Sponsored by:Hard Rock Games: https://www.hardrockgames.com/
• Savvas Fellas: How MrQ confronts UK’s new 40% tax regime 26.03.2026 55мин

  🎙️ NEXT.io Podcast #262 with Savvas Fellas CEO and Founder of MrQ. UK Tax Shock, Black Market Risk & The Future of OperatorsIn this episode of the NEXT.io Podcast, Savvas Fellas, CEO of MrQ, breaks down the real impact of the UK’s upcoming gambling tax changes and what they mean for operators, players, and the wider industry.With tax increases expected to reach up to 40% of revenue, this conversation explores how operators are adapting, where margins are being squeezed, and why the next 12 months could reshape the UK market.⏰ Timestamps:00:00 - Intro 00:26 - Sponsors message01:48 - Welcoming Savvas Fellas03:48 - Building MrQ & company philosophy07:40 - Impact of the 40% tax increase12:17 - Crisis vs opportunity: how companies respond16:20 - Cost cuts across the industry (RTP, suppliers, structure)19:18 - Acquisition, affiliates & marketing challenges22:00 - Black market risk and player behaviour25:16 - Trust vs value: why players choose operators30:09 - Market consolidation & economies of scale33:59 - Survive vs thrive: strategy for MrQ36:31 - Focus vs expansion: staying in the UK39:05 - Regulation, UKGC & industry responsibility44:43 - The future of the UK market48:44 - Consolidation: fewer, larger operators51:50 - How to build a strong gaming brand53:49 - Final thoughts: winners vs losers🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nextdotio/podcastsCONNECT WITH NEXT.IO✩ Website: https://next.io/This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technologyhttps://pragmatic.solutions/Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content providerhttps://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/
• Jesse Learmonth: The state of iGaming startups in 2026 19.03.2026 57мин

  🎙️ NEXT.io Podcast #261 with Jesse Learmonth from The Betting Startups.In this episode of the NEXT.io Podcast, Jesse Learmonth joins us to discuss the current state of the iGaming startup ecosystem, what investors are actually looking for today, and why building new companies in gaming has become significantly harder.As the founder of Betting Startups, Jesse works closely with early-stage companies and investors across the industry. In this conversation, we explore how the funding environment has changed, why distribution and partnerships are critical for growth, and what skills founders need to succeed when launching new gaming businesses.⏰ Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction00:28 - Jesse Learmonth returns to the NEXT.io Podcast01:15 - The role of Betting Startups in the ecosystem03:10 - The current state of iGaming startups07:45 - Why building startups is harder today11:10 - Funding environment & investor expectations14:00 - What makes a startup investable18:00 - Innovation in iGaming22:30 - Where startups can still win27:00 - Scaling challenges for gaming startups31:00 - Partnerships, distribution & market access35:30 - The biggest mistakes founders make40:00 - Why distribution is everything44:30 - The role of networks & industry relationships48:30 - Advice for founders entering iGaming52:30 - The future of gaming startups55:30 - Closing thoughts🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G826Guf8uHM&list=PLo43Fota-gt1sMzujpavaGmRbTiRXETKEApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-io-podcast/id1515442333CONNECT WITH NEXT.IO✩ Website: https://next.io/This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technologyhttps://pragmatic.solutions/Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content providerhttps://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/
• Why congresswoman Dina Titus plans to put an end to Sports Prediction Markets 05.03.2026 23мин

  🎙️ NEXT.io Podcast #260 with Congresswoman Dina Titus | US Gaming Policy, Prediction Markets & The Fair Bets ActIn this episode, Congresswoman Dina Titus — Representative for Nevada’s 1st District (home to Las Vegas) — discusses the growing regulatory battle around prediction markets and sports event contracts in the United States.As co-chair of the Congressional Gaming Caucus, Titus recently introduced the Fair Markets and Sports Integrity Act, a bill designed to prevent prediction market operators from offering sports-based contracts outside established state gaming frameworks.⏰ Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction00:26 – Sponsors message01:45 – Welcoming Congresswoman Dina Titus02:37 – Titus’ background and representing Las Vegas03:49 – The Fair Markets and Sports Integrity Act05:29 – Prediction markets vs regulated sportsbooks06:42 – Why the CFTC shouldn’t regulate sports contracts08:26 – The political fight over prediction markets09:53 – Real risks for players and the industry11:12 – Could prediction markets expand across gaming?13:09 – Industry divisions and the role of the AGA16:07 – Innovation vs regulation debate18:03 – The Fair Bets Act and the 90% tax deduction issue20:31 – What happens next in Congress22:16 – Engagement with prediction market operators23:01 – Closing thoughts🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nextdotio/podcastsCONNECT WITH NEXT.IO✩ Website: https://next.io/This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technologyhttps://pragmatic.solutions/Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content providerhttps://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/
• Wojciech Stellmach on Prediction Markets, Sweeps & Paid Media: What Actually Works 19.02.2026 1ч 12мин

  🎙️ NEXT.io Podcast #259 with Wojciech Stellmach, CEO of BugsyEmpire.In this episode, Wojciech Stellmach CEO of BugsyEmpiere, explains what’s actually working right now across emerging verticals: from sweepstakes (sweeps 2.0) to prediction markets and why “easy money” is a myth.We unpack the shift from talking about grey markets to “grey products”, why payments + marketing access can create real advantage, and what operators must get right in marketing tech, tracking, and foundations before spending big.⏰ Timestamps:00:31 - Sponsors message01:50 - Welcome Wojciech04:15 - Why BugsyEmpire moved into sweepstakes and emerging verticals06:55 - The real USP: platform relationships + deep product/tech checks09:23 - “Grey products” vs grey markets10:53 - Sweepstakes hype vs reality11:17 - What “grey products” means14:43 - Other emerging verticals: prediction markets, DFS, pari-mutuel + more20:41 - Ad rules tightening (Google/TikTok)23:28 - Why emerging verticals can beat black market brands28:53 - Why most operators fail at paid media39:13 - Paid media breakdown: social vs search vs brand/programmatic01:06:10 - Winning operators checklist: focus, tech, payments, lean teams01:07:49 - NEXT New York + Emerging Verticals Summit (9 March)🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nextdotio/podcastsCONNECT WITH NEXT.IO✩ Website: https://next.io/This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technologyhttps://pragmatic.solutions/Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content providerhttps://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/
• Sargis Poghosyan: The Journey of CreedRoomz, Game development and Expansion 29.12.2025 37мин

  🎙 NEXT.io Podcast #257 with Sargis Poghosyan, CPO at CreedRoomzIn this episode, Sargis Poghosyan, CPO at CreedRoomz, joins Pierre Lindh to unpack how one of the industry’s most ambitious live studios is pushing innovation through show games, in-house R&D, and flagship productions like Road to El Dorado.⏰ Timestamps:00:00 - Intro: Meet Sargis Poghosyan from CreedRoomz00:22 - Sponsors01:41 - Global studio expansion: Armenia to Brazil03:58 - Why CreedRoomz is betting big on show games05:14 - Road to El Dorado: The flagship title08:24 - Boom Blast: Volatility, risk & strategy12:00 - Marble Race: Physical tracks meet gamification14:14 - 100+ people for one game? Behind the scenes17:05 - Dice Fight: RNG, multipliers & hardware20:00 - Bonus feature: Pyramid pick game21:44 - What’s next: Lucky Colours, Rock Paper Scissors24:13 - Crash mechanics in live casino: AVA & crypto26:21 - The Choice: Turning childhood games into iGaming27:44 - Why instant games are exploding in popularity28:43 - New twists on blackjack and classics31:51 - Future plans: Studios, mechanics & markets33:23 - Blending live casino with sportsbook and slots35:06 - CreedRoomz’s advantage: R&D and experimentation36:31 - Final thoughts ahead of ICE Barcelona28:43 - New features in classic titles: Gambling side bets in blackjack31:51 - Vision: Expanding to new studios, markets, and mechanics33:23 - Merging live casino with sportsbook and slots35:06 - CreedRoomz’s edge: R&D culture and relentless experimentation36:31 - Final thoughts and looking ahead to ICE Barcelona🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/409DefE06IKPhZzhDIDpH3?si=bf60dedab34e45bcApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-io-podcast/id1515442333CONNECT WITH NEXT.IO✩ Website - https://next.io/This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technology.https://pragmatic.solutions/Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content provider.https://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/Sponsored by:Creedroomz - https://www.creedroomz.com/NOWPayments: https://nowpayments.io/
• James Curwen: How Yggdrasil is completely revamping the business model of a game supplier (Part 3) 23.12.2025 55мин

  🎙 NEXT.io Podcast #257 with James Curwen, CEO of Yggdrasil.The slot industry is producing more games than ever yet standing out has never been harder.In this episode, James Curwen joins Pierre Lindh to explain why the era of reskinned slots is coming to an end and what will replace it. From rising production costs and algorithm-driven distribution to player fatigue and creative stagnation, James breaks down why the traditional slot development model no longer works.⏰ Timestamps:00:00 - Intro00:43 - Sponsors message02:08 - The 3-part journey of transforming Yggdrasil05:03 - Rebuilding tech: Platform, back office, AWS, scalability06:59 - The cost of game production and the reskin problem09:08 - Game in a Box: From 10-month dev cycles to 1 month12:03 - How the business model is shifting14:55 - €22K Game in a Box offer16:04 - Studio in a Box: The €60K turnkey solution18:06 - Target customers: studios, streamers, affiliates, operators20:33 - Why this isn’t AI gimmickry24:22 - Building and refining games faster with full creator control27:00 - Lower costs, faster ROI, and a new model for suppliers29:08 - AWS collaboration and scaling without service sacrifice31:59 - Commercial growth expectations34:52 - Tool capacity vs. support limits37:19 - Flooding the market vs. empowering operators39:59 - Is this killing small studios or saving them?42:02 - Unity, player data, and creative freedom43:28 - Going niche46:40 - Game in a Box available launch48:02 - Become the world’s biggest game producer50:01 - Competing with Pragmatic, Play’n GO, and levelling the field51:21 - Getting visibility and operator positioning53:44 - New service: Dedicated sales support for small studios54:36 - Final thoughts🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/409DefE06IKPhZzhDIDpH3?si=bf60dedab34e45bcApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-io-podcast/id1515442333CONNECT WITH NEXT.IO✩ Website - https://next.io/This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technology.https://pragmatic.solutions/Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content provider.https://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/Sponsored by:Creedroomz - https://www.creedroomz.com/
• Phil Pearson: iGaming Industry 2025 in Review 18.12.2025 1ч 58мин

  🎙 NEXT.io Podcast #256 with Phil Pearson, iGaming Consultant. Another year. Another cycle of hype, pressure, pivots, and hard lessons.In this episode of the NEXT.io Podcast, Phil Pearson joins Pierre Lindh to unpack what really happened across iGaming in the past 12 months beyond the headlines.Together, they explore the widening gap between innovation headlines and real progress, the pressure leaders are facing behind the scenes, the growing importance of focus over scale, and why many companies are quietly reassessing their priorities.It’s a grounded conversation about what moved the needle, what didn’t, and what lessons are worth carrying into the year ahead.⏰ Timestamps:00:00 - Intro00:41 - Sponsor messages02:04 - Welcome Phil Pearson04:06 – Yolo’s move into regulation: why it matters06:38 - Personal reset: health, sabbatical & perspective11:55 - Biggest industry stories of the year14:19 - Charity, Dar Bjorn & responsibility in iGaming16:17 - Investigative journalism33:27 - Game Studio Awards: overview33:33 - Best studio of the year39:29 - Best newcomer studio40:39 - Worst studio of the year44:01 - Most underwhelming game releases49:56 - Live game of the year51:21 - RNG game of the year52:36 - Best industry freebies & swag57:23 - Grey products explained58:12 - Sweepstakes, prediction markets & loopholes01:12:56 - The defining trend of 2026: grey products01:30:02 - Events review: what worked, what didn’t01:49:00 - Final outlook: where the industry is heading🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/409DefE06IKPhZzhDIDpH3?si=bf60dedab34e45bcApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-io-podcast/id1515442333CONNECT WITH NEXT.IO✩ Website - https://next.io/This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technology.https://pragmatic.solutions/Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content provider.https://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/Sponsored by:Creedroomz - https://www.creedroomz.com/
• Valentina Diaco: These Are the iGaming Companies Getting AI Right 12.12.2025 1ч 11мин

  🎙 NEXT.io Podcast #255 with Valentina Diaco, Founder at Profit Matches. AI has officially moved beyond hype. In 2025, it’s reshaping iGaming in real, tangible ways — from CRM and engagement to compliance, marketing, content creation, safe gambling, and game development.In this episode, Valentina Diaco, one of the industry's most respected marketing and AI strategists, breaks down 10 AI companies that are already transforming iGaming today.⏰ Timestamps:00:00 - Intro00:23 - Sponsors message02:09 - Welcoming Valentina & Profit Matches04:52 - What AI Match is and why she built it06:00 - Where AI in iGaming stands today09:12 - AI: the real value is what you do with it11:17 - Why AI fails in companies12:30 - AI-to-AI economy & the future of data infrastructure15:14 - AI agents & conversational interfaces18:10 - The 10 AI companies reshaping iGaming19:09 - Golden Whale: AI for UA, retention & bonus orchestration23:40 - Field Stream AI: profitability engine for marketers27:51 - Text.com AI: customer support & proactive assistance33:15 - Let’s .IO: regulatory intelligence for compliance38:11 - Gamblitude: AI-powered BI & data warehouse41:58 - MaxFusion: AI content & UGC generation46:47 - Mindway AI: responsible gambling detection51:00 - insightplay.ai: conversational betting assistant53:37 - Xenia AI: game development & personalisation56:28 - Bettor Faster AI: development & automation agency58:20 - Why companies resist AI adoption01:00:16 - Biggest blockers: lack of capacity & too many tools01:07:01 - The real cultural barrier01:10:16 - The future: smaller, smarter, AI-native companies🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTYoutube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLo43Fota-gt1sMzujpavaGmRbTiRXETKE&si=R7VbrUspVkL1JyoxCONNECT WITH NEXT.IO✩ Website - https://next.io/This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technology.https://pragmatic.solutions/Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content provider.https://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/Sponsored by:Creedroomz - https://www.creedroomz.com/
• Emilie Jirsch: Creating a world-class brand via the Cool Shit Budget 04.12.2025 42мин

  🎙 NEXT.io Podcast #254 with Emilie Jirsch, CMO at Dabble. Dabble has become one of the fastest-growing betting brands on the planet — not by outspending competitors, but by out-innovating them with community, culture, and entertainment-first marketing.In this episode, Emilie Jirsch, CMO at Dabble, reveals how the purple brand went from a small NSW startup to 1 million+ active customers, explosive US growth, and global expansion across Australia, the US, and the UK.⏰ Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction00:29 - Sponsor message01:50 - Welcoming Emilie Jirsch, CMO at Dabble02:21 - How Dabble started 04:45 - Launching in Australia & hitting 1M active customers06:03 - Product differentiation & brand awareness07:09 - The “purple cow theory” explained 08:32 - Dabble’s growth strategy11:23 - Creating talkable moments that build brand memory13:22 - Moderators, culture, and self-policing communities15:10 - $1M Hole-in-One PGA activation: the story behind it17:00 - The true definition of disruptive brand marketing20:49 - The “cool sh*t budget” explained24:01 - Launching in the US through DFS 29:08 - Why the US embraced Dabble instantly33:00 - Competitors 36:25 - Inside Dabble’s internal culture40:06 - What’s next: UK launch, Ireland license, expansion41:54 - Final thoughts 🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTYoutube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLo43Fota-gt1sMzujpavaGmRbTiRXETKE&si=jDpUksylKP-4_8T0CONNECT WITH NEXT.IO✩ Website - https://next.io/This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technology.https://pragmatic.solutions/Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content provider.https://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/Sponsored by:Creedroomz - https://www.creedroomz.com/
• Tom Wood: How Operators Should Think About Game Studios 27.11.2025 48мин

  🎙 NEXT.io Podcast #253 with Tom Wood, CEO of RAW iGamingRAW iGaming calls itself “the pink shark in a sea of sameness.”In this episode, CEO Tom Wood joins Pierre Lindh to break down the realities of innovating in an industry releasing 18 new slot games per day and why true originality is harder (and riskier) than it looks.If you want to understand the future of game development in iGaming, this one is essential.⏰ Timestamps:00:00 - Intro00:29 - Sponsors Message01:49 - Welcome Tom Wood, CEO of RAW iGaming02:30 - The mission behind RAW04:36 - “The pink shark in a sea of sameness” explained06:07 - Why most studios copy07:05 - 600 new games released in Sweden in one month10:06 - Competing in a market flooded with studios12:53 - How RAW gets operators’ attention18:07 - RAW’s innovation pillars: slots, arcade & Yahtzee28:23 - Innovation in live gaming30:26 - Game’s success: quality vs. positioning33:27 - The risk: AI lobbies might hide innovative games38:11 - Designing for local vs. global audiences42:16 - The next breakout hit: simple, unexpected, left-field innovation45:14 - How AI may reshape game production itself47:11 - RAW’s ambition: becoming a Tier-1 supplier🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLo43Fota-gt1sMzujpavaGmRbTiRXETKECONNECT WITH NEXT.IO✩ Website - https://next.io/This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technology.https://pragmatic.solutions/Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content provider.https://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/Sponsored by:Creedroomz - https://www.creedroomz.com/
• Tim Heath: Yolo's Strategic Shift to Regulation 30.10.2025 1ч 2мин

  🎙 NEXT.io Podcast #252 with Tim Heath, CEO and Founder at Yolo Group.Yolo Group has made one of the boldest moves in iGaming history — exiting grey markets entirely to pursue a regulated future.In this episode, Tim Heath joins Pierre Lindh to reveal the inside story behind Yolo’s transformation: why the company walked away from massive revenue, what the new UAE gaming license means, and how Yolo plans to bridge the gap between crypto, regulation, and entertainment.⏰ Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction00:23 - Sponsors message01:39 - Welcoming Tim Heath02:03 - Why Yolo decided to exit grey markets07:36 - The tightening of global enforcement and regulation10:56 - Yolo’s new B2B licenses in the UAE explained16:05 - Restarting Yolo: redefining focus and efficiency22:04 - Building a 360° player experience and hybrid casino model24:49 - Facing financial risk and the courage to rebuild27:34 - “Spring cleaning” the business and cutting organizational fat31:17 - Leading regulators toward crypto innovation33:41 - Why regulation must evolve with technology35:31 - Why the UAE is a perfect testbed for regulated crypto gaming41:06 - How the UAE licensing model may work (one per Emirate)48:08 - Yolo’s five-year vision: becoming the “Blackstone of iGaming”51:33 - The courage to pivot and restart55:55 - The future of wallets, payments, and hybrid player experience58:21 - Yolo’s new AI-driven social sports betting concept01:01:35 - Tim on Yolo’s next chapter and future in regulation🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTYouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLo43Fota-gt1sMzujpavaGmRbTiRXETKE&si=0vgjHyIuWQbblEY4 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-io-podcast/id1515442333CONNECT WITH NEXT.IO✩ Website - https://next.io/This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technology.https://pragmatic.solutions/Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content provider.https://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/Sponsored by:Creedroomz - https://www.creedroomz.com/
• NEXT In-Depth: Markets react to Playtech/Evolution bombshell 22.10.2025 38мин

  NEXT.io News Editor Conor Mulheir is joined by Head of Investigative Content Zak Thomas-Akoo and Regulus Partners’ Paul Leyland, for a blow-by-blow account of how public markets and the wider iGaming industry reacted to the explosive news that Playtech was behind an attempted takedown of Evolution. On 21 October, it was finally revealed that the entity behind a short seller report, produced by investigative firm Black Cube in an attempt to take down Evolution, was industry competitor Playtech. After a complex and years-long legal battle to reveal the name behind the report, Evolution finally succeeded and uncovered Playtech as the entity responsible. So, what happens next? For Evolution, Playtech, and the broader industry, the impact of the news is sure to have a lasting impact. Tune in to get the latest!
• Leah Neutel: The Art of Leadership 16.10.2025 47мин

  🎙 NEXT.io Podcast #251 with Leah Natuel, Head of Studio at Relax GamingLeah Neutel leads one of iGaming’s most creative teams at Relax Gaming, where innovation, empathy, and accountability come together to push the boundaries of modern game development.In this episode, Leah joins Pierre Lindh to explore what true leadership looks like in creative industries — from building trust and psychological safety to turning failure into fuel for success.⏰ Timestamps:00:00 - Intro00:32 - Sponsors message01:53 - Welcoming Leah Neutel02:09 - How Leah’s background shaped her leadership03:54 - From youth offenders to UN work06:04 - The principles of leadership07:32 - Leading with accountability & humanity09:20 - What it means to lead without authority10:25 - How to inspire creative teams without control12:30 - Asking the right questions vs. giving answers16:39 - Imposter syndrome & redefining leadership19:20 - How insecurity shows up in poor leadership20:17 - Training first-time managers 23:10 - Culture at Relax Gaming 25:29 - Can you be friends with your team? 27:46 - Conflict resolution29:46 - Turning disagreement into progress31:38 - Embracing diversity & aligning different personalities34:40 - Should companies take political stances?38:25 - Why failure isn’t final? 39:42 - How Relax Gaming turns failure into iteration41:15 - Creating a culture where risk fuels innovation44:40 - The most important leadership qualities of the future46:03 - Can anyone become a great leader?46:39 - Final thoughts🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/409DefE06IKPhZzhDIDpH3?si=bf60dedab34e45bcApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-io-podcast/id1515442333CONNECT WITH NEXT.IO✩ Website - https://next.io/This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technology.https://pragmatic.solutions/Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content provider.https://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/Sponsored by:Creedroomz - https://www.creedroomz.com/
• Vid Daolio: Tokacity Redefining Social Casino for a New Generation 09.10.2025 51мин

  🎙 NEXT.io Podcast #250 with Vid Daolio, CEO at TokacityTokacity is reimagining online casinos by creating immersive, social gaming environments that merge gambling with modern gaming culture and younger generation of players. Using Unreal Engine and Pixel Streaming technology, they provide a seamless, no-download virtual world accessible across devices. Their mission is to engage digital natives who value community, self-expression, and fun by turning the casino into a social, customizable, and safe experience rather than a solitary game lobby.⏰ Timestamps:00:00 - What’s missing in online casinos00:42 - Sponsors: Pragmatic Solutions & Pragmatic Play02:04 - Welcome: Vid Daolio, CEO of TokaCity03:46 - Introducing TokaCity and its vision06:33 - The technology behind immersive casinos (Pixel Streaming)09:07 - Are players ready for immersive gaming?10:06 - Generational shifts and new player behavior13:03 - Why innovation comes from new generations15:10 - Building safe and expressive digital spaces17:06 - Merging gaming and gambling worlds19:44 - How TokaCity’s product actually works22:42 - Gamification, digital assets & player identity25:10 - Blockchain integration and the Saatchi MVP28:15 - From startup to live product launch29:26 - Partnership with Roshtein and community engagement33:05 - PvP games and social casino experiences35:32 - Player identity, self-expression & streaming culture36:29 - The future of live gaming with AI dealers37:43 - The cultural shift in gaming audiences42:21 - Can the metaverse make a comeback?44:37 - Lessons from crypto and decentralization48:32 - Combining innovation with trusted content50:25 - The future vision for TokaCity🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nextdotio/podcastsCONNECT WITH NEXT.IO✩ Website - https://next.io/This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technology.https://pragmatic.solutions/Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content provider.https://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/Sponsored by:Creedroomz - https://www.creedroomz.com/
• Jake Dovey: How to Boost iGaming Conversions with Better Payments  02.10.2025 1ч 23мин

  🎙 NEXT.io Podcast #249 with Jake Dovey, CEO and Founder of PayModum What’s the cost of not accepting something or the cost of not doing it right?From unpacking the true cost of “cheap” payment methods to exploring PIX in Brazil, open banking in Europe, and the rise of biometric KYC, Jake explains why the path of least resistance always wins.Jake Dovey is raising money for Chordoma UK, join us in supporting the cause at this link: https://www.justgiving.com/page/jake-dovey-1?utm_medium=FR&utm_source=CL⏰ Timestamps:00:00 - Intro00:24 - Sponsors Message01:45 - Welcome back Jake Dovey, CEO of PayModum.02:32 - Payments as cost vs. opportunity04:20 - “The customer is always right” explained06:15 - Why operators shouldn’t focus on cost first13:32 - Finance vs. product teams: balancing costs and innovation15:09 - Integration challenges and resource bottlenecks16:55 - Personal story: legacy vs. modern pension payment experience18:46 - Why true cost is customer friction, not fees21:29 - Do operators really understand payments?22:16 - Brazil & PIX: instant bank payments explained26:36 - Biometrics and frictionless KYC (Octo example)29:31 - Shopify & Amazon: lessons for gaming payments33:42 - How AI is transforming integrations & customer experience41:34 - Biggest payment bottlenecks in iGaming50:05 - Too early to innovate? Lessons from Pay n Play, PIX & open banking53:31 - The challenge of recurring crypto payments57:15 - Why innovation needs risk-taking (Rory Sutherland’s rule)01:01:12 - Big vs. small companies: innovation culture (Apple vs. Xiaomi)01:08:48 - PayModum’s USP: deep customer and payments understanding01:11:22 - Closing: Jake’s fitness journey & marathon for charity01:13:26 - Tribute to Jake’s mother & Cordoma Foundation01:17:11 - Running, friction, and perseverance in life & business01:21:39 - How to donate: JustGiving link & final thanks🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/409DefE06IKPhZzhDIDpH3?si=bf60dedab34e45bcApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-io-podcast/id1515442333CONNECT WITH NEXT.IO✩ Website - https://next.io/This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technology.https://pragmatic.solutions/Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content provider.https://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/
• Ryan Angerami: Why Reddit Is the Internet’s Most Trusted Site 25.09.2025 1ч 5мин

  🎙 NEXT.io Podcast #246 with Ryan Angerami, Head of App Development at Reddit Ryan Angerami, Reddit's Senior Director of App Development, discusses the evolution and future of Reddit. The episode highlights Reddit's commitment to authenticity and community trust as key differentiators in a landscape increasingly dominated by algorithm-driven content and the challenges and opportunities this presents for brands seeking to engage with its users.⏰ Timestamps:00:00 - Intro00:42 - Sponsors message02:02 - Reddit’s rise: From niche forum to global search powerhouse02:56 - Monetization post-IPO: Building Reddit’s revenue model05:10 - What makes Reddit unique in the social media landscape07:55 - Community moderation: Why Reddit didn’t become toxic10:20 - Trust, transparency, and the power of upvotes12:19 - Comments over headlines: Reddit’s real value15:00 - Battling misinformation, bots, and manipulation17:05 - Reddit’s role in training and verifying AI systems21:20 - Reddit Answers: Reinventing trust in search24:56 - Why Reddit drives more thoughtful purchasing decisions28:18 - How Reddit content shapes AI search results31:58 - Reddit’s cultural DNA vs. performance-driven platforms34:30 - Tools for brands: Sentiment analysis and Reddit Pro40:00 - New ad formats and authentic community engagement44:15 - Should brands create subreddits or just participate?49:17 - Balancing commercial growth with community trust55:00 - The future of Reddit in an AI-dominated world57:03 - Cultural moments: GameStop, WallStreetBets & r/place🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@nextdotio/podcastsCONNECT WITH NEXT.IO✩ Website - https://next.io/This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technology.https://pragmatic.solutions/Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content provider.https://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/
• Evert Einroos: What VCs Really Look For in Founders 18.09.2025 43мин

  🎙 NEXT.io Podcast #248 with Evert Einroos, Managing Director of Yolo Investments.Evert joins us to break down how Yolo Investments scaled from a scrappy operator-led VC to a professional fund with external LPs and over 150 portfolio companies. He explains why warm intros still matter, how to structure a successful fund, and why passion-led founders shine in gaming.⏰ Timestamps:00:00 - Intro00:31 - Sponsors01:50 - Welcoming Evert Einroos03:00 - Origin story: How Yolo Investments started05:30 - Early wins, flops & the power law in VC06:50 - Lessons from the crypto crash07:20 - Launching Fund 2 with external LPs10:19 - Why startups should want Yolo on their cap table13:36 - Balancing founder energy vs. investor guardrails16:03 - What VCs really look for in founders20:22 - Red flags that turn investors off21:19 - How to get on Yolo’s radar26:10 - The 5 “S”s of building a VC fund27:56 - How LPs make money29:03 - Challenges of iGaming as an investment class33:23 - The passion vs. opportunity balance in gaming38:11 - Startup success rates & power laws41:41 - What’s next for Yolo Investments🔔 SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/409DefE06IKPhZzhDIDpH3?si=bf60dedab34e45bcApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/next-io-podcast/id1515442333CONNECT WITH NEXT.IO✩ Website - https://next.io/This episode of NEXT.io is brought to you by:Pragmatic Solutions – Leading iGaming platform technology.https://pragmatic.solutions/Pragmatic Play – Industry-leading content provider.https://www.pragmaticplay.com/en/