There’s Always a Way Out: Mark Schmidt’s Story of Recovery and Redemption

In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with several standout members of the iGaming Leader Mastermind to share their deeply personal journeys of transformation. From burnout and overwhelm to sustainable high performance, these stories reveal the real impact of removing the mask and prioritising wellbeing in the world of leadership. The conversation explores burnout, work-life balance, imposter syndrome, stress, resilience, leadership growth, and personal recovery — offering inspiration and actionable insights for ambitious iGaming professionals ready to lead without losing themselves in the process.Our GuestsRob Fell is CEO at RiskCherry, known for his physical transformation and renewed mental clarity. He now leads with structure, focus, and purpose.Fintan Costello is a veteran founder and advisor in the industry. After facing burnout, he rebuilt a better approach to business and life.Julia Weygandt is the Group CCO at CallsU and a committee member at Global Gaming Women. Once overwhelmed by work, she found clarity, boundaries, and a powerful support system.Carl Hallam is Co-Founder of Vega Gibraltar. Once mentally and physically exhausted, he’s now living with presence, peace, and professional purpose.Lex Scott is VP of Gaming at ITV Studios. From near breakdown to emotional recovery, Lex shares how he rediscovered balance and inner peace.Richard Marquis is a Director at Flutter/Sky Gaming. After losing his mother, he redefined his approach to time and work, creating sustainable habits and intentional living.Arturs Zagurilo is a CCO who overcame imposter syndrome and scepticism about coaching. Through the Mastermind, he became more productive and genuinely happy.James Murray is Director of Business Development at Playnetic. From burnout and hopelessness to reclaiming control and confidence, his story highlights the power of asking for help.Key Topics Discussed00:00 – Rob Fell on building clarity and overcoming burnout through structure03:00 – Fintan Costello on regaining 30 hours/week and making millions through mindset shifts06:00 – Julia Weygandt on feeling consumed by work and finding community and balance08:00 – Carl Hallam on recovering from emotional strain and becoming a better leader11:00 – Lex Scott on near-collapse and finally finding inner peace13:00 – Richard Marquis on the loss of his mother and building habits to honour her legacy16:00 – Arturs Zagurilo on overcoming imposter syndrome and discovering the value of community19:00 – James Murray on escaping burnout, asking for help, and reclaiming his joy and energyMemorable Quotes"I was done. I was working long days, working weekends… but I knew it wasn’t sustainable." – Fintan Costello "Everyone on my birthday list was from work… that was the moment I realised something had to change." – Julia Weygandt "I’m physically 10 years younger but mentally 20 years older." – Carl Hallam "For the first time… I feel peace. I thought it was something that was beyond me." – Lex Scott "You are in control of your own happiness." – James Murray "What I’m most proud of is the feeling of habits forming — and knowing they’ll last." – Richard Marquis "At first, I thought this was all BS. But now I know — it works. I’m more productive and more happy." – Arturs ZaguriloImportant LinksConnect with Leo Judkins: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkinsSubscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signupJoin the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/

In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo Judkins sits down with Vladimir Malakchi, investor, advisor, former CCO of Evoplay and CEO of Xanada Investments. Vladimir shares how adaptability, integrity, and fearless decision-making shaped his journey from government employee to multi-industry executive and respected leader in iGaming. The conversation explores personal resilience, navigating uncertainty, leading with impact, and the mindset shifts that separate founders who thrive from those who stall — offering real, raw advice for executives, founders, and future leaders.Guest BioVladimir Malakchi is a strategic investor and business scaling expert with 10 years of experience. Over the past 5 years, he has mentored iGaming companies, guiding them to commercial success and top industry rankings.Recognized as Speaker of the Year and Influencer of the Year, Vladimir is among LinkedIn's top voices in the industry. He has led companies to over 300 awards and nominations.A respected judge and speaker at global gaming conferences, Vladimir launched Xanada Investments — an investment fund that supports promising iGaming projects, focusing on business scaling through financial backing and a community-driven approach for mutual success.Key Topics Discussed00:00 – Introduction03:00 – Betrayed by a friend helped by a stranger08:00 – Couldn’t go back and face my mother10:50 – Why adaptability is the most critical skill for founders11:50 – Career pivots, mindset shifts, and making your own luck17:00 – You need to start moving, moving, moving.24:11  – Fear, risk, and the dangers of the comfort zone30:50 – The mindset difference between serial founders and first-time entrepreneurs34:55 – Perfectionism vs. speed: the silent killer of startups38:50 – What I want to be remembered forMemorable Quotes"If you’re the smartest guy in the room, it’s time to change rooms." "Comfort is the most dangerous place to live. You’ll look back and realise you’ve lost 20 years." "People say yes because they don’t want to hurt your feelings. But if they won’t pay for your product, you’ve got nothing." "Founders don’t die from failure — they die from perfectionism and inaction." "I want to be remembered for helping people grow — not just in business, but in life."Important LinksConnect with Vladimir Malakchi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vmalakchi/https://xanada.fundhttps://next.io/news/promoted/inside-the-xanada-pitch-contest-vladimir-malakchi-how-to-prepare-effectively/Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkinsSubscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signupJoin the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/

In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Mark Schmidt, Managing Director at EveryMatrix and a seasoned iGaming professional with over 17 years of industry experience. Mark shares his extraordinary journey from rising through the ranks in sports betting and gaming, to battling addiction, depression, and suicidal thoughts—and ultimately rebuilding his life and career.The conversation explores the pressures of leadership in iGaming, the dangers of burnout and imposter syndrome, the stigma around mental health in male-dominated environments, and the importance of vulnerability, boundaries, and support systems. Mark offers raw honesty and empowering insights for anyone facing personal challenges while navigating high-performance careers.Guest Bio16 Year career in iGaming focusing exclusively on Africa. Mark has worked for the industry's leading B2B providers in senior roles with the likes of Sportradar and IMG. His career started off in B2C as the head of trading for Hollywood Bets where his love of horse racing began. He’s a dad to three girls and has been married for ten years to his amazing wife Derryn. He’s currently with EveryMartrix and is the Managing Director - Africa. Key Topics Discussed00:00 - Introduction02:50 - Mark’s early career at Hollywood Bets07:09 - Struggles with mental health and alcohol in high-pressure roles09:03 - Suicidal ideation and coming out of rock bottom14:35 - Feeling alone and imposter syndrome18:49 -  Dealing with social expectations in gaming21:40 - Building a peer support network for others in the industry25:59 - Generational shifts, asking for help, and creating change before it’s too late28:44 - Just get help33:15 - Advice for Gaming Leaders who feel the same wayMemorable Quotes"Although I was there in body, I wasn’t there in mind." "The world’s changed a hell of a lot. There are so many different ways that you can get help now." "If I was able to get to a better point, anyone can do it." "Just get help. Even if it’s a friend. Don’t try to solve it in your own head."Important LinksConnect with Mark Schmidt:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-schmidt-aa27398b/Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signupJoin the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/

In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Sasha Uman, Chief Commercial Officer at Playtech Live. Sasha shares her inspiring journey from finance associate to CCO at Playtech Live's division, revealing how bold moves, and supportive networks shaped her career. The conversation explores her path through the iGaming industry, the importance of asking for opportunities, overcoming imposter syndrome, managing remote teams, and maintaining work-life balance—offering actionable advice and relatable insights for aspiring leaders, especially women navigating male-dominated industries.Guest Bio Sasha is an action-focused commercial executive with a proven track record in driving revenue growth and market expansion. With extensive experience in negotiating IP and software licensing agreements, as well as managing strategic contract renewals and re-negotiations, Sasha excels at navigating complex, high-impact projects to swift and effective resolutions. A strong leader and skilled negotiator, she currently leads high-performing teams that consistently exceed KPIs and business expectations.Key Topics Discussed 00:00 – Sasha’s career path: from finance to CCO at Playtech's Live Division04:00 – Knocking on doors and asking for what you want10:29 – Dealing with overthinking and building a strong support system12:51 – Managing imposter syndrome and finding confidence through connection18:42 – Balancing leadership and family life in the iGaming industry23:14 – Overcoming challenges and defining leadership through adversity26:26 – The value of authentic leadership and doing things your own way32:30 – Delegation struggles and the long-term value of empowering others36:20 – Advice for business development professionals looking to grow fastMemorable Quotes"I have to do it myself. No one will build your future for you.""Overthinking turns into a vicious circle. It’s better not to go into it at all.""You can achieve things in your own way. There’s no one path to success.""Don’t just pitch the revenue share—understand the product deeply.""People don’t always know what you’re capable of unless you show them."Important LinksConnect with Sasha Uman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sasha-uman-17722780/Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signupJoin the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/

In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Paris Smith, former CEO of Pinnacle and one of the most influential leaders in the iGaming industry. Paris shares her journey from sports betting to leading a powerhouse brand, highlighting the challenges, leadership lessons, and industry shifts she has navigated. The conversation explores high-performance culture, resilience in the face of public scrutiny, and the evolving dynamics of leadership in iGaming.Paris shares what it takes to thrive in a fast-paced, ever-changing industry.Guest BioParis Smith began her Hall of Fame gaming career in 1995 with WWTS. In 2006, she joined Pinnacle, helping transition the business toward Asian and European markets. She then restructured Pinnacle into a B2C bookmaking leader, pioneering initiatives like accepting the first esports bets in 2010. With unmatched industry expertise, Paris now serves as an advisor and consultant, leveraging her passion and experience to guide others through Life Winning and Defy the Odds.Key Topics Discussed00:00 – Guest introduction02:00 – Paris' early years in sports and how competition shaped her leadership05:25 – Building a high-performance culture in iGaming09:36 – Holding teams to higher standards13:10 – Dealing with public scrutiny and pressure20:53 – Industry resilience and the evolving role of leadership24:00 – Market shifts post-COVID and the challenge of balancing costs and people26:43 – Handling layoffs and company transitions29:28 – The three types of professionals in iGaming33:29 – The biggest untapped opportunities for operators today37:04 – Responsible gaming: The need for incentives over penalties39:24 – The key to success: Humility, adaptability, and believing in yourselfMemorable Quotes"I love crunch time. Three seconds left, down by two—I want the ball. That's how I approach leadership." "You can’t thrive in iGaming if you’re not listening, learning, and evolving. Stagnation isn’t anoption in this industry." "Resilience isn’t about avoiding challenges—it’s about knowing you’ll push through them, no matter what."Important LinksConnect with Paris Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paris-smith-1719377/Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signupJoin the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/

 Naive or ballsy? Building a company from scratch in an industry you don’t know with Helen WaltonIn this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Helen Walton, Chief Commercial Officer and Co-Founder of G Games, an online casino studio. Helen shares how she went from working on household brands to co-founding a gaming business that supplies games to over 800 operators. The conversation explores the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of building strong business relationships, and the unconventional strategies that helped G Games stand out in the iGaming industry. Offering insights into leadership, resilience, and industry innovation, Helen provides valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and gaming professionals.Guest BioHelen Walton is the Chief Commercial Officer and Co-Founder of G Games. Over the last decade, she and her business partners have grown G Games from a bold idea into a global company, supplying games to over 800 operators. Helen has worked across multiple industries, from beauty and retail to logistics and gaming, helping build some of the most recognizable brands. A well-known speaker and writer in iGaming, she is also a member of the UKGC Industry Forum, advocating for responsible gaming and innovation in the sector.Key Topics Discussed00:00 – From consumer brands to iGaming03:00 – How G Games started05:38 – Early failures that shaped G Games08:01 – Why networking is critical to success09:14 – Standing out in iGaming12:18 – Overcoming setbacks20:11 – Building a strong company culture23:57 – The power of autonomy, trust, and feedback29:58 – Delegation and letting go35:14 – Bringing fresh talent into iGaming41:15 – Take ownership of your career and create your own opportunitiesMemorable Quotes"We started with no network, no industry experience—just a crazy idea and a lot of persistence.""Failure is a great teacher. Every mistake we made helped shape the company we have today." "If you want to grow in your career, stop waiting for someone to tell you what to do—take ownership and make things happen."Important LinksConnect with Helen Walton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-walton/https://www.linkedin.com/company/gforthegamersFollow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signupJoin the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/

In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Simon Pilkington, former CEO of KaFe Rocks and experienced iGaming executive. Simon shares his transformative journey, from navigating imposter syndrome and career shifts to prioritizing his health and well-being. They go deep into leadership challenges, personal growth, and the power of building a strong support system. Simon shares some valuable insights and practical advice for leaders striving to balance career success with personal fulfillment.Guest BioSimon Pilkington is a seasoned iGaming executive with a background in leadership, strategy, and business transformation. 17+ years in the iGaming industry, spanning operator, media and data companies, affiliate companies, and his own businesses. Not a 'straight forward' career path, but one that led to CEO leadership with KaFe Rocks. Currently running Wander, a specialist and unique recruitment business, alongside a start-up and bootstrapped affiliate company called Best Betting Media.Key Topics Discussed00:00 – Taking over as CEO: The challenges of stepping into leadership05:42 – Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt09:58 – Balancing career, family, and well-being during the pandemic11:36 – Transforming health: From burnout to peak performance17:08 – The power of delegation and trusting your team22:11 – Lessons from leadership: Building the right company culture26:25 – Getting out of your own head34:28 – Simon’s charity work: From boxing to running 180 miles for a causeMemorable Quotes"I was doing everything for everyone—except myself. When I finally prioritized my well-being, everything else improved." "You don’t get rid of imposter syndrome—you learn to manage it and use it to your advantage." "Leadership isn’t about knowing everything; it’s about surrounding yourself with the right people and trusting them."Important LinksConnect with Simon Pilkington: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonpilkingtonhttps://www.wearewander.co.ukSupport Simon’s charity run: https://www.justgiving.com/page/olivers-army-6-ultras Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signupJoin the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/

In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Britt Boeskov, an experienced executive in iGaming and digital transformation. Britt shares her journey from starting as a management trainee to becoming a C-level leader in a fast-paced and highly regulated industry. The conversation explores career progression, leadership challenges, the power of building strong professional relationships, and the impact of AI and personalization in the gaming industry. Offering valuable insights, Britt provides actionable advice for professionals looking to step up in their careers and lead with confidence.Guest BioWith 20 years of experience in the i-gaming industry, Britt is a board member and advisor who specialises in strategy, customer experience, and digital transformation. After a long C-level run with Kindred Group, she now serves on the boards of Better Collective, Mindway AI, GAMING1 Group, MAG Interactive and Racecourse Media Group; and provides tailored support through 4see Advice.Key Topics Discussed02:00 – Britt’s journey to C-level executive04:40 – Transitioning to an established industry leader07:00 – Stepping into leadership: Taking ownership and leading with confidence09:50 – Sometimes you just have to take the corner office11:20 – You don’t have to do it all yourself16:00 – The importance of delegation and trusting your team21:20 – Finding purpose in leadership and the role of responsible gaming24:50 – The evolution of player engagement and the role of AI in gaming29:30 – Britt’s advice for leveling up your careerMemorable Quotes"You don't get the corner office. You take the corner office.""High performers balance humility and curiosity with ambition and persistence.""The one lasting thing you build in this industry is your relationships—hold on to them."Important LinksConnect with Britt: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittboeskov/https://4see.dk/4see-methods/Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signupJoin the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/

In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Elena, a seasoned executive with extensive experience in business transformation and leadership. Elena shares her journey from starting as a PA to leading billion-pound transformation projects in highly regulated industries. The conversation explores navigating career transitions, the importance of leadership adaptability, and how diverse perspectives shape high-performing teams. Elena provides actionable advice for leaders looking to progress into executive roles and lead with confidence.Guest BioElena Chambers is the Group Chief Transformation and Corporate Development Officer at Allwyn, bringing over 20 years of global experience in strategic planning and business transformation. Her journey from starting as a PA in Moscow to leading billion-pound transformations showcases her ability to drive innovation across industries. Prior to Allwyn, she served as COO at 888holdings where she led the William Hill post-merger integration, and spent 12 years at British American Tobacco leading a £1.2bn global transformation program. A graduate of both Columbia and London Business School, Elena brings a unique perspective shaped by her cross-cultural experience, with a leadership approach that emphasizes curiosity, authenticity, and building diverse teams to drive organizational change.Key Topics Discussed02:00 – Elena’s career journey: From PA to leading transformation projects03:50 – Breaking into the iGaming industry and taking on executive roles07:20 – Managing international teams and adapting to different leadership cultures11:50 – Leveraging strengths as a woman in a male-dominated industry20:30 – The importance of delegation and letting go to grow as a leader25:30 – Handling imposter syndrome and embracing continuous learning29:00 – Lessons from the tobacco industry: Anticipating regulatory changes in gaming32:20 – The future of national lotteries and the role of technology in transformationMemorable Quotes"If you try to mimic your male colleagues' behavior, that's not going to get you anywhere—be yourself and use your unique strengths.""One of the biggest skills for a leader is to build a team that complements each other, not one that mirrors each other.""Start transforming from the inside while you still can—don’t wait until you’re forced to change."Important LinksConnect with Elena: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenareznikorskaya/Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signupJoin the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/

In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Georgia Parry, Director of Key Accounts at Blueprint, to discuss her incredible career progression, overcoming adversity, and her leadership philosophy.Georgia shares how she went from an office administrator to a director in just seven years, the lessons she learned from a major health scare, balancing leadership with single parenthood, and how she built her confidence in a high-stakes industry.This conversation dives into personal resilience, leadership growth, and strategies for managing stakeholder relationships in gaming. Whether you're an aspiring leader, a working parent, or someone looking to build more confidence in your career, Georgia’s story is packed with valuable insights.Guest BioGeorgia Parry is the Director of Key Accounts UK at Blueprint Gaming, where she has been a key player for the past seven years, starting her journey as an Office Administrator before rapidly climbing the ranks. Prior to joining the gaming industry, she worked as a Sales Negotiator in real estate, but her passion for people and relationship-building naturally led her into commercial roles.As an extroverted and highly social leader, Georgia thrives in roles that emphasize human connection. She firmly believes that people buy from people, not just products, and that hiring genuinely good individuals is the foundation of a successful business. While still learning the nuances of her leadership position, she embraces the journey and the challenges that come with it.Outside of work, Georgia is a devoted mother to her 8-year-old son, Henry, her greatest motivation to succeed.Key Topics Discussed00:00 – Welcome and Introduction03:50 – The Science Teacher’s Prediction05:50 – Pivotal Career Moments08:00 – Navigating a Major Life Change12:50 – Facing a Life-Threatening Health Scare16:30 – The Power of Positivity and Resilience19:30 – Leadership & Emotional Intelligence26:00 – Building Relationships in iGaming28:30 – Overcoming Imposter Syndrome31:50 – Lessons from Great Leaders34:20 – Advice to Her Younger SelfMemorable Quotes📌 “I truly believe that if you understand what makes people happy at work, you’ll get the best out of them—without needing to be a strict leader.”📌 “If you’re progressing in your career, imposter syndrome is natural. It means you’re in the right place.”📌 “Life is short—don’t waste energy on negativity. Control what you can, and let go of the rest.”📌 “If you ever don’t know the answer, just say, ‘I don’t know, but I’ll find out.’ That’s how you build credibility.”Important LinksConnect with Georgia Parry: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgia-parry-a86424159Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signupJoin the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/