🎙️ In this episode of Martin Lycka's Safe Bet Show, we sit down with Dr. Jennifer Shatley, Executive Director of Roga (Responsible Online Gaming Association), for a conversation on the future of responsible gaming. With a unique academic background—especially her communications degree rooted in research and statistics—Dr. Shatley brings a data-driven mindset to her work. She reflects on her tenure at Caesars, where she led initiatives like Responsible Gaming training and the creation of the Responsible Gaming Ambassador role.

🌍 Dr. Shatley also shares global insights from her consulting work, particularly in Japan, emphasising the need for culturally sensitive and targeted responsible gaming programs. She explains why a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work, highlighting the importance of tailoring messaging to resonate with different demographics and cultural values. Throughout the discussion, she underscores the central role of research—emphasising the need for actionable insights that translate into real-world, adaptable policy solutions.

🧠 As the head of Roga—formed by eight major US gaming operators representing 90% of the market—Dr. Shatley outlines the organisation’s five-pillar mission: actionable research, best practices, education (including the “Know Your Play” campaign), a national data clearinghouse, and a certification program to set industry standards. Looking ahead, she shares Roga’s vision to integrate responsible gaming across the entire player journey, shift the narrative from problem gambling to player well-being, and use shared data to drive personalisation and prevention.

In the latest episode of Martin Lycka's Safe Bet Show, Martin chats with Monica Shafaq, CEO of Gordon Moody, delving into her extensive charity sector background spanning housing and mental health.

Monica shares her journey, including her 14-year tenure as CEO of Kaleidoscope Plus Group, a mental health support organisation.

A crucial part of the conversation explores the significant interplay between mental health and problem gambling, with Monica highlighting that over 70% of Gordon Moody's clients have a diagnosed mental health condition. As a mental health first aid instructor, she also shares key skills for providing initial support.

Beyond the charity sector, Monica discusses her allegiance to Wolverhampton Wanderers and her passionate involvement in football governance, driven by a desire to destigmatise mental health in sports and champion equality and diversity.

Monica also outlines exciting future plans for Gordon Moody, including increased social media presence, service diversification, and international expansion.

Join Martin Lycka on another episode of his Safe Bet Show as he welcomes Simon Vincze, Head of Sustainable and Safe Gambling at Casino Guru.

In this insightful conversation, Simon shares his experiences growing up in the post-Czechoslovak environment, reflecting on the unique dynamic between Czechs and Slovaks and his personal connection to both cultures.

He provides an in-depth look into Casino Guru's mission to offer reliable information about online casinos, explaining their rigorous process for establishing the safety index and their efforts to act as a "Wikipedia for online casinos".

Simon delves into the crucial topic of responsible gambling, sharing his thoughts on player education and the need for gambling companies to bring their players "out of the shadow". He also discusses his spearheaded project to develop universal recommendations for online self-exclusion practices.
Beyond his professional life, Simon reflects on how fatherhood influences his career and travel.