Betting on Success https://www.bettingonsuccess.com Welcome to Betting on Success—
A dynamic new podcast series that spotlights the evolving landscape of casino gaming operations and technology. This monthly series, hosted by Mark ”Morty” Morton, will deliver real-world insights and strategic perspectives from the industry’s most influential voices that are driving change in gaming technology, cashless solutions, and operational environments.

]]> Wed, 11 Feb 2026 09:10:29 -0800 https://podbean.com/?v=5.5 en us Copyright 2025 All rights reserved. Business 1440 episodic Welcome to Betting on Success— A dynamic new podcast series that spotlights the evolving landscape of gaming operations and technology. This bi-monthly series hosted by Mark ”Morty” Morton will deliver real-world insights and strategic perspectives from the industry’s most influential voices that are driving change in gaming technology, cashless solutions, and operational environments. Marker Trax and Koin Marker Trax and Koin No false https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/feed.xml https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/20303572/Betting_on_Success_Logo_15009jst1.png Betting on Success https://www.bettingonsuccess.com 144 144 Betting on Success Podcast (Season 2 - Episode 1) - Hillary McAfee’s Unconventional Path into Gaming Betting on Success Podcast (Season 2 - Episode 1) - Hillary McAfee’s Unconventional Path into Gaming https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-season-2-episode-1-hillary-mcafee/ https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-season-2-episode-1-hillary-mcafee/#comments Wed, 11 Feb 2026 09:10:29 -0800 bettingonsuccess.podbean.com/49b35852-0257-3711-b3a5-710829faf4ab On the first episode of season 2 of the Betting on Success podcast, Hillary McAfee sat down on the other side of the mic to talk with host Mark Morton about how curiosity, community, and a willingness to jump in headfirst shaped her career in the gaming industry. From photography and social media marketing to influencer strategy, podcasts, and advocacy, her story is a reminder that growth often comes before you have all the answers.

Hillary’s story is a reminder that careers don’t have to be perfectly planned to be meaningful. Side steps aren’t setbacks. Asking questions isn’t weakness. And sometimes the best opportunities come from simply being willing to figure it out as you go.

In an industry built on risk and reward, that mindset might just be the most valuable skill of all.

]]> On the first episode of season 2 of the Betting on Success podcast, Hillary McAfee sat down on the other side of the mic to talk with host Mark Morton about how curiosity, community, and a willingness to jump in headfirst shaped her career in the gaming industry. From photography and social media marketing to influencer strategy, podcasts, and advocacy, her story is a reminder that growth often comes before you have all the answers.

Hillary’s story is a reminder that careers don’t have to be perfectly planned to be meaningful. Side steps aren’t setbacks. Asking questions isn’t weakness. And sometimes the best opportunities come from simply being willing to figure it out as you go.

In an industry built on risk and reward, that mindset might just be the most valuable skill of all.

]]> Marker Trax and Koin false No 1786 2 1 full Betting on Success Podcast Episode 15 - Blake Sartini II (Executive VP & COO, Golden Entertainment) Betting on Success Podcast Episode 15 - Blake Sartini II (Executive VP & COO, Golden Entertainment) https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-episode-15-blake-sartini-ii-executive-vp-coo-golden-entertainment/ https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-episode-15-blake-sartini-ii-executive-vp-coo-golden-entertainment/#comments Wed, 14 Jan 2026 09:09:02 -0800 bettingonsuccess.podbean.com/78249863-ee76-30c9-ba79-ab3dcb13d9f9 In this episode of Betting on Success, host Mark Morton sat down with Blake Sartini II, Executive VP & COO of Golden Entertainment for a candid conversation about family, leadership, technology, and what it really takes to build your own identity inside a multi-generation gaming powerhouse. Don't miss this powerful episode on growth, grit, and the future of gaming.

]]> In this episode of Betting on Success, host Mark Morton sat down with Blake Sartini II, Executive VP & COO of Golden Entertainment for a candid conversation about family, leadership, technology, and what it really takes to build your own identity inside a multi-generation gaming powerhouse. Don't miss this powerful episode on growth, grit, and the future of gaming.

]]> Marker Trax and Koin false No 1425 1 15 full Betting on Success Podcast Episode 14 - Scott Erdmann (Sr. Director of Corporate Partnerships, Las Vegas Raiders) Betting on Success Podcast Episode 14 - Scott Erdmann (Sr. Director of Corporate Partnerships, Las Vegas Raiders) https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-episode-14-scott-erdmann-sr-director-of-corporate-partnerships-las-vegas-raiders/ https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-episode-14-scott-erdmann-sr-director-of-corporate-partnerships-las-vegas-raiders/#comments Tue, 09 Dec 2025 10:21:18 -0800 bettingonsuccess.podbean.com/f792fa0c-abd1-3b16-a06d-b2bb96019448 Scott Erdmann, Senior Director of Partnerships for the Las Vegas Raiders, shares his inspiring career journey from starting in sports sales with the Florida Panthers to leading partnerships for the Raiders. He discusses lessons learned, the importance of relationships, navigating challenges like COVID-19, and his passion for curiosity and continuous learning.

]]> Scott Erdmann, Senior Director of Partnerships for the Las Vegas Raiders, shares his inspiring career journey from starting in sports sales with the Florida Panthers to leading partnerships for the Raiders. He discusses lessons learned, the importance of relationships, navigating challenges like COVID-19, and his passion for curiosity and continuous learning.

]]> Marker Trax and Koin false No 1926 1 14 full Betting on Success Podcast Episode 13 - David Lopez (President & CEO, AGS) Betting on Success Podcast Episode 13 - David Lopez (President & CEO, AGS) https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-episode-13-david-lopez/ https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-episode-13-david-lopez/#comments Wed, 29 Oct 2025 09:02:50 -0700 bettingonsuccess.podbean.com/960904c1-af3a-3f57-92c9-d4ecfc791c6b In this episode of Betting on Success, David Lopez, President & CEO of American Gaming Systems, shares his journey from humble beginnings to industry leadership. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the evolution of company culture, and innovative approaches in gaming technology. Lopez emphasizes the value of hard work, building relationships, and fostering a vibrant workplace culture that encourages creativity and collaboration.

]]> In this episode of Betting on Success, David Lopez, President & CEO of American Gaming Systems, shares his journey from humble beginnings to industry leadership. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the evolution of company culture, and innovative approaches in gaming technology. Lopez emphasizes the value of hard work, building relationships, and fostering a vibrant workplace culture that encourages creativity and collaboration.

]]> Marker Trax and Koin false No 2303 1 13 full Betting on Success Podcast Episode 12 - Matt Wilson (CEO, Light & Wonder) Betting on Success Podcast Episode 12 - Matt Wilson (CEO, Light & Wonder) https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-episode-12-matt-wilson/ https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-episode-12-matt-wilson/#comments Tue, 30 Sep 2025 09:13:05 -0700 bettingonsuccess.podbean.com/69558a0f-c403-30de-a38d-b468f70d4225 In this episode of Betting on Success, Matt Wilson, CEO of Light and Wonder, shares his journey from Australia to leading a major gaming company. He discusses the importance of growth mindset, team building, and the sacrifices made for career advancement. Wilson emphasizes the need for intentional career decisions and the value of surrounding oneself with talented individuals. He reflects on personal experiences, family sacrifices, and the significance of creating a positive company culture.

]]> In this episode of Betting on Success, Matt Wilson, CEO of Light and Wonder, shares his journey from Australia to leading a major gaming company. He discusses the importance of growth mindset, team building, and the sacrifices made for career advancement. Wilson emphasizes the need for intentional career decisions and the value of surrounding oneself with talented individuals. He reflects on personal experiences, family sacrifices, and the significance of creating a positive company culture.

]]> Marker Trax and Koin false No 1822 1 12 full Betting on Success Podcast Episode 11 - Howard Stutz (Journalist, Nevada Independent) Betting on Success Podcast Episode 11 - Howard Stutz (Journalist, Nevada Independent) https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-episode-11-howard-stutz/ https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-episode-11-howard-stutz/#comments Tue, 09 Sep 2025 09:01:27 -0700 bettingonsuccess.podbean.com/0e75fd1d-5ef6-3d7c-aeb2-c58176ec6579 In this episode of Betting on Success, host Mark Morton welcomes veteran gaming journalist Howard Stutz, senior reporter for the Nevada Independent. Stutz reflects on his career covering the gaming industry, the city’s evolution into a major sports hub, and the impact of cashless technology on casinos. He also shares his perspective on the Oakland Athletics’ move to Las Vegas, the importance of community connections, and how innovation continues to redefine the gaming experience.

]]> In this episode of Betting on Success, host Mark Morton welcomes veteran gaming journalist Howard Stutz, senior reporter for the Nevada Independent. Stutz reflects on his career covering the gaming industry, the city’s evolution into a major sports hub, and the impact of cashless technology on casinos. He also shares his perspective on the Oakland Athletics’ move to Las Vegas, the importance of community connections, and how innovation continues to redefine the gaming experience.

]]> Marker Trax and Koin false No 2135 11 full Betting on Success Podcast Episode 10 - Steven Zanella (President Resort Operations, MGM Resorts Int'l) Betting on Success Podcast Episode 10 - Steven Zanella (President Resort Operations, MGM Resorts Int'l) https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-episode-10-steven-zanella/ https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-episode-10-steven-zanella/#comments Wed, 20 Aug 2025 15:09:18 -0700 bettingonsuccess.podbean.com/94473998-021d-3b2f-b384-dd91fc58870b In this episode of Betting on Success, host Mark Morton sits down with Steve Zanella, President of Resort Operations at MGM Resorts International, to explore his inspiring journey from growing up in Colorado to leading one of the world’s most iconic hospitality brands. Steve shares valuable insights on career growth, the power of mentorship, and the evolving landscape of the gaming industry. Tune in for leadership lessons, industry wisdom, and advice for young professionals looking to make their mark.

]]> In this episode of Betting on Success, host Mark Morton sits down with Steve Zanella, President of Resort Operations at MGM Resorts International, to explore his inspiring journey from growing up in Colorado to leading one of the world’s most iconic hospitality brands. Steve shares valuable insights on career growth, the power of mentorship, and the evolving landscape of the gaming industry. Tune in for leadership lessons, industry wisdom, and advice for young professionals looking to make their mark.

]]> Marker Trax and Koin false No 1705 1 10 full Betting on Success Podcast Episode 9 - Jonathan Jossel (CEO, Plaza Hotel & Casino) Betting on Success Podcast Episode 9 - Jonathan Jossel (CEO, Plaza Hotel & Casino) https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-episode-9-jonathan-jossel/ https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-episode-9-jonathan-jossel/#comments Wed, 30 Jul 2025 09:10:40 -0700 bettingonsuccess.podbean.com/d0664ec2-57ef-3f10-b7eb-aee23a06a0f1 In this episode of Betting on Success, Jonathan Jossel, CEO of the Plaza Hotel & Casino, shares his journey from South Africa to leading a historic Las Vegas property. He discusses his early influences, the challenges of revitalizing downtown Vegas, and the importance of community engagement and innovative ideas in the gaming industry.

]]> In this episode of Betting on Success, Jonathan Jossel, CEO of the Plaza Hotel & Casino, shares his journey from South Africa to leading a historic Las Vegas property. He discusses his early influences, the challenges of revitalizing downtown Vegas, and the importance of community engagement and innovative ideas in the gaming industry.

]]> Marker Trax and Koin false No 1841 1 9 full Betting on Success Podcast Episode 8 - Patrick Miller (President & CEO, Rio Hotel & Casino) Betting on Success Podcast Episode 8 - Patrick Miller (President & CEO, Rio Hotel & Casino) https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-episode-8-patrick-miller/ https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-episode-8-patrick-miller/#comments Wed, 09 Jul 2025 09:17:12 -0700 bettingonsuccess.podbean.com/6116b122-1067-360f-af96-819e2ef34d87 In this episode of Betting on Success, host Mark Morton interviews Patrick Miller, President & CEO of the Rio Hotel & Casino Las Vegas. They discuss Patrick's journey in the gaming industry, the importance of family and community, and his vision for revitalizing the iconic Rio property. Miller emphasizes leadership values, community involvement, and the significance of nostalgia in shaping the future of Las Vegas gaming. 

]]> In this episode of Betting on Success, host Mark Morton interviews Patrick Miller, President & CEO of the Rio Hotel & Casino Las Vegas. They discuss Patrick's journey in the gaming industry, the importance of family and community, and his vision for revitalizing the iconic Rio property. Miller emphasizes leadership values, community involvement, and the significance of nostalgia in shaping the future of Las Vegas gaming. 

]]> Marker Trax and Koin false No 1823 1 8 full Betting on Success Podcast Episode 7 - Niaz Nejad Betting on Success Podcast Episode 7 - Niaz Nejad https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-episode-7-niaz-nejad/ https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-episode-7-niaz-nejad/#comments Wed, 25 Jun 2025 10:50:04 -0700 bettingonsuccess.podbean.com/1743f232-a07e-329c-9b83-8d18523b9588 In this episode of Betting on Success, host Mark Morton talks with Niaz Nejad. Niaz shares her inspiring journey from Canada to becoming a prominent leader in the gaming industry. She discusses the influence of her family, mentors, and her experiences in banking and gaming, emphasizing the importance of integrity, tenacity, and innovation in leadership.

]]> In this episode of Betting on Success, host Mark Morton talks with Niaz Nejad. Niaz shares her inspiring journey from Canada to becoming a prominent leader in the gaming industry. She discusses the influence of her family, mentors, and her experiences in banking and gaming, emphasizing the importance of integrity, tenacity, and innovation in leadership.

]]> Marker Trax and Koin false No 1537 1 7 full Betting on Success Podcast Episode 6 - Michael Daly Betting on Success Podcast Episode 6 - Michael Daly https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-episode-6-michael-daly/ https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-episode-6-michael-daly/#comments Tue, 03 Jun 2025 14:30:13 -0700 bettingonsuccess.podbean.com/1f5fb82b-41d2-387b-91f5-6ae689e205c1 In this episode of Betting on Success, host Mark Morton has an engaging conversation with Michael Daly, COO of Marker Trax. Michael shares his unique journey from a Navy officer to a leader in the gaming industry, discussing leadership lessons, the evolution of gaming technology, and the future of cashless transactions in casinos.

]]> In this episode of Betting on Success, host Mark Morton has an engaging conversation with Michael Daly, COO of Marker Trax. Michael shares his unique journey from a Navy officer to a leader in the gaming industry, discussing leadership lessons, the evolution of gaming technology, and the future of cashless transactions in casinos.

]]> Marker Trax and Koin false No 1838 1 6 full Betting on Success Podcast Episode 5 - Scott Michaels Betting on Success Podcast Episode 5 - Scott Michaels https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-episode-5-scott-michaels/ https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-episode-5-scott-michaels/#comments Thu, 15 May 2025 13:28:21 -0700 bettingonsuccess.podbean.com/b7fb6bec-fb7f-3f6b-8071-ac966963400a In this episode of Betting on Success, Scott Michaels, Chief Product Officer at Apply Digital, discusses his journey from an English major to a leader in tech, the importance of understanding end-users in gaming, and how AI can revolutionize the industry by improving efficiency and user experience.

 

The link below contains the supplemental material that Scott referenced in the podcast episode:

https://vimeo.com/1078788691/f56344d1ff?share=copy

]]> In this episode of Betting on Success, Scott Michaels, Chief Product Officer at Apply Digital, discusses his journey from an English major to a leader in tech, the importance of understanding end-users in gaming, and how AI can revolutionize the industry by improving efficiency and user experience.

 

The link below contains the supplemental material that Scott referenced in the podcast episode:

https://vimeo.com/1078788691/f56344d1ff?share=copy

]]> Marker Trax and Koin false No 3480 1 5 full Betting on Success Podcast Episode 4 - Gary Larkin (President, Koin) Betting on Success Podcast Episode 4 - Gary Larkin (President, Koin) https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-episode-4-gary-larkin/ https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-episode-4-gary-larkin/#comments Tue, 29 Apr 2025 09:29:49 -0700 bettingonsuccess.podbean.com/d7f1d606-4402-3eb7-bdb2-262bfe97d1c1 In this episode of the 'Betting on Success' podcast series, Koin President Gary Larkin shares his extensive career in payments and gaming, discussing his experiences with industry visionaries, the evolution of cashless technology, and the future of gaming. He emphasizes the importance of understanding customer needs and the challenges of integrating cashless solutions in a traditionally cash-driven industry.

]]> In this episode of the 'Betting on Success' podcast series, Koin President Gary Larkin shares his extensive career in payments and gaming, discussing his experiences with industry visionaries, the evolution of cashless technology, and the future of gaming. He emphasizes the importance of understanding customer needs and the challenges of integrating cashless solutions in a traditionally cash-driven industry.

]]> Marker Trax and Koin false No 2751 1 4 full Betting on Success Podcast Episode 3 - Justin Moore (CEO, Mesquite Gaming) Betting on Success Podcast Episode 3 - Justin Moore (CEO, Mesquite Gaming) https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-episode-3-justin-moore/ https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-episode-3-justin-moore/#comments Mon, 14 Apr 2025 09:10:55 -0700 bettingonsuccess.podbean.com/cb3170d8-129f-3560-bba0-831fd00e9350 In this episode of Betting on Success, host Mark Morton interviews Justin Moore, a prominent leader in the gaming industry. Justin shares his remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming the CEO of Mesquite Gaming. From food server to CEO, Justin's story showcases the importance of mentorship, seizing opportunities, and the impact of technology in the gaming industry.

]]> In this episode of Betting on Success, host Mark Morton interviews Justin Moore, a prominent leader in the gaming industry. Justin shares his remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming the CEO of Mesquite Gaming. From food server to CEO, Justin's story showcases the importance of mentorship, seizing opportunities, and the impact of technology in the gaming industry.

]]> Marker Trax and Koin false No 2346 1 3 full Betting on Success Podcast Episode 2 - Tom Jingoli (President & COO, Konami Gaming) Betting on Success Podcast Episode 2 - Tom Jingoli (President & COO, Konami Gaming) https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-episode-2-tom-jingoli/ https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-episode-2-tom-jingoli/#comments Mon, 31 Mar 2025 09:03:36 -0700 bettingonsuccess.podbean.com/af20e5d7-7e5b-3bac-926c-f739121deaa5 Tom Jingoli, EVP & COO of Konami Gaming, joins Betting on Success to discuss his journey from New Jersey to Las Vegas, his 23-year career at Konami, and the evolution of gaming technology. He shares insights on leadership, the growth of cashless gaming, and his deep ties to the community. From family influences to industry mentors, Tom’s story highlights resilience, innovation, and a passion for the future of gaming.

]]> Tom Jingoli, EVP & COO of Konami Gaming, joins Betting on Success to discuss his journey from New Jersey to Las Vegas, his 23-year career at Konami, and the evolution of gaming technology. He shares insights on leadership, the growth of cashless gaming, and his deep ties to the community. From family influences to industry mentors, Tom’s story highlights resilience, innovation, and a passion for the future of gaming.

]]> Marker Trax and Koin false No 2471 1 2 full Betting on Success Podcast Episode 1 - Gary Ellis (Founder of Marker Trax & Koin) Betting on Success Podcast Episode 1 - Gary Ellis (Founder of Marker Trax & Koin) https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-episode-1-gary-ellis/ https://www.bettingonsuccess.com/e/betting-on-success-podcast-episode-1-gary-ellis/#comments Thu, 13 Mar 2025 09:56:53 -0700 bettingonsuccess.podbean.com/fc792789-9c37-3997-aaa3-7a3f7b11cbe9 Vegas icon and entrepreneur Gary Ellis joins Betting on Success Host Mark Morton to share his journey from running the legendary Ellis Island Casino to revolutionizing casino credit and payments with Marker Trax and Koin. From family business roots to pioneering cashless gaming, Gary dives into the challenges, successes, and future of the gaming industry. Don’t miss this exclusive conversation about innovation, legacy, and the evolution of gaming!

]]> Vegas icon and entrepreneur Gary Ellis joins Betting on Success Host Mark Morton to share his journey from running the legendary Ellis Island Casino to revolutionizing casino credit and payments with Marker Trax and Koin. From family business roots to pioneering cashless gaming, Gary dives into the challenges, successes, and future of the gaming industry. Don’t miss this exclusive conversation about innovation, legacy, and the evolution of gaming!

]]> wwaxman false No 2485 1 1 full