The Gambling Files podcast

RTFM 233: Building Dreams: Peter Venison talks Sol Kerzner

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We kick off with the usual shenanigans from Fintan and Jon, mostly Fintan though as Jon is generally the voice of reason here [0:00 – 19:00].

Then we come to our second guest of the Gambling Book Awards era (www.gamblingbookawards.com).

The magnificent Peter Venison shares his experiences working with the legendary Sol Kerzner, a titan in the hospitality and gambling industries. Peter’s experiences led to him writing the book Sol: My Friend and Adversary, which came out in early 2025. The discussion covers Kerzner's visionary approach to building resorts, the evolution of the gambling landscape in South Africa, and the cultural and social changes during that era.

Venison reflects on the challenges and successes of creating Sun City, the marketing strategies employed, and the impact of Nelson Mandela on the industry. The conversation concludes with insights into Venison's excellent memoir about Kerzner and the book's reception, and possibly the greatest tax wheeze we have ever heard of [19:01 – 1:18:43].

Choice quote:

"We were agents of change."

Peter Venison on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-venison-b4849630/


As ever, we thank all of our sponsors for their vibrant and excellent support. They are truly the Mad Max: Fury Road, to our Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome.

In no particular order they are: the mighty EveryMatrix – the industry go-to for sportsbook platforms and data feeds. EveryMatrix’s coverage is so damn good, they’re gaining tier-1 operators all the time. If I had to fight to the death in a weird, muddy amphitheatre in a dystopian future, I’d want these guys with me.

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Then of course there is Clarion Gaming, providers of the magnificent ICE expo (January ’26 in Barcelona) and iGB Live! in London. Yeah, the show where there is that guy shooting all fire out the end of his guitar which he’s playing on the roof of a truck. We love you guys infinity plus one.


The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.

Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/

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Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fintancostello/

Jon Bruford on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-bruford-84346636/

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