Double Down Michigan: A Podcast by the Michigan Gaming Control Board

In this episode of Double Down Michigan , Executive Director Henry Williams sits down with Jason Wiard and Steven Meyer, two commercial casino audit managers at the Michigan Gaming Control Board, for a candid conversation about what it really means to regulate one of Michigan's most dynamic industries. From the nuts and bolts of compliance audits to the complexities of revenue oversight, Jaso...

In this episode of Double Down Michigan , Executive Director Henry Williams sits down with John, the manager of the Michigan Gaming Control Board’s Criminal Investigations Section (CIS), for an inside look at one of the agency’s most essential — and least visible — functions. The CIS serves as the MGCB’s law enforcement and investigative backbone, working alongside the Attorney General’s office, s...

In this episode of Double Down Michigan , Executive Director Henry Williams sits down with Keesha Garrett, the Michigan Gaming Control Board’s Communications Manager, for a wide-ranging conversation about what it really takes to elevate the voice of a state regulatory agency.  Keesha’s work at the MGCB goes far beyond press releases and social media. As the agency’s Communications Manager and Lang...

In this episode of Double Down Michigan , Executive Director Henry Williams sits down with Bri’Ona Taylor and Stina Lyles from the Responsible Gaming Section to discuss how the agency is expanding education and outreach efforts across Michigan. The conversation explores the role of responsible gaming, how outreach has grown to reach new audiences, and why education is key to addressing gambling ri...

In this episode of Double Down Michigan , Executive Director Henry Williams sits down with newly appointed MGCB Chair Jim Ananich for a candid conversation about his path to public service, his vision for the Michigan Gaming Control Board, and the importance of strong regulation in a rapidly evolving industry. With deep roots in Flint and experience spanning government, health, and education, Chai...

If you need support, confidential help is available through the Michigan Human Trafficking Hotline by call or text at 1-855-VOICES-4 (1-855-864-2374), or chat at www.michigan.gov/VOICES4. In this episode of Double Down Michigan , MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams sits down with Tiffany Martinez, LMSW, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ Human Trafficking and Special Projects Dir...

In this episode of Double Down Michigan, MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams speaks with Mike Mooney, founder of Choices Counseling Center in Roseville, about his work helping individuals and families affected by gambling addiction. Drawing on years of experience as a certified counselor, Mike shares how his center supports clients referred through Michigan’s Problem Gambling Helpline, guiding...

What drives someone to take a chance—and when does that risk turn into harm? In this episode of Double Down Michigan , MGCB Executive Director Henry Williams talks with Dr. Shane Kraus, Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Dr. Kraus shares insights from his research on gambling disorder, addictive behaviors, and mental health among high-risk populations such as...

In this episode of Double Down Michigan , we’re joined by Marlene Warner, a nationally recognized leader in gambling harm reduction and CEO of The Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health, along with guest host Jasmine Tompkins, Director of External Affairs at the MGCB. Marlene also serves as the executive director of the Michigan Association on Problem Gambling (MAPG), where she’s helping shape...

In this episode of Double Down Michigan , we sit down with Tom, the very first Regulation Officer hired by the Michigan Gaming Control Board, for an insider’s look at the evolution of gaming oversight in the state. From shaping a brand-new role to navigating decades of technological innovation and regulatory challenges, Tom shares compelling stories, lessons learned, and his perspective on where t...

In this episode of Double Down Michigan , we’re joined by Alisha Meneely from the Michigan Children’s Protection Registry to talk about how families can better protect children from harmful online content. Alisha breaks down how the Protect MI Child initiative helps block adult-themed ads, gambling promotions, and inappropriate messaging from reaching kids' devices. She also shares eye-openin...

Ever wonder what happens to illegal gaming machines after they’re seized? Go behind the scenes with Aaron Pongracz, Departmental Analyst in the MGCB Gaming Lab, as he shares the fascinating world of forensic analysis in gaming regulation. From cracking the code on unauthorized machines to testifying in court, Aaron breaks down how science, technology, and investigative skill come together to prote...

In this episode, we sit down with David Rebuck, former Director of the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement, to reflect on his extraordinary 36-year career in gaming regulation. From launching the nation’s first internet casino gambling market to spearheading the legalization of sports betting, David shares the pivotal moments that defined his leadership and helped position New Jersey as a na...

In this episode, Executive Director Henry Williams is joined by John Sullivan and Laura Chaparro from the Michigan Gaming Control Board’s Enterprise Licensing team to break down what it takes to become a licensed gaming supplier in Michigan. They dive into the essential qualifications, the purpose and process of supplier exemptions, and how the MGCB upholds ethical standards and fairness in the in...

In this special Women’s History Month edition of the Double Down Michigan Podcast, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of women in the gaming industry. Host Jasmine Tompkins sits down with Joni M. Thrower Davis, Karen Finch-Watts, and Marie Schaenzer from the Michigan Gaming Control Board to discuss their unique journeys, the evolution of women’s roles in gaming, and the impact of mentorship...

In this special 2-year anniversary episode of the Double Down Michigan Podcast, Marie Schaenzer, Social Media Analyst for the MGCB, sits down with Henry Williams, Executive Director of the MGCB. Henry answers a range of fun and insightful questions, from his dream dinner guest in the gaming world to what happens to financial documents after they’re processed by the MGCB. He also discusses the lega...

In this episode, we sit down with Christine Apostol, Deputy Director of Administration at the Michigan Gaming Control Board, to explore the vital role her division plays in supporting the agency’s mission and ensuring smooth operations across the board. Christine walks us through her career journey and the factors that led her to join the MGCB, offering insights into the inner workings of the Admi...

In this episode, we sit down with Tina Alagna, Deputy Director of Licensing & Investigations at the Michigan Gaming Control Board, to dive into the critical work of regulating Michigan’s gaming industry. Tina takes us through her journey with the MGCB, reflecting on how the gaming landscape has evolved over the years and the challenges faced in maintaining regulatory compliance. We explore top...

Join us for an insightful episode as we sit down with Charlie Negin, Manager of Tribal Gaming at the MGCB. Charlie shares his extensive knowledge and experience in overseeing tribal gaming, addressing key topics such as tribal gaming distinctions, patron disputes, and the critical role played by the MGCB in tribal relations. Discover how tribal gaming regulations interact with federal and state la...

In today’s episode, we’re taking a closer look at the Michigan State Lottery. You’ll hear about the inner workings of our state’s lottery system, its regulations, and the impact it has on our communities. Joining us is a very special guest, Suzanna Shkreli, the Commissioner of the Michigan Lottery. She will bring insight into the operations of the lottery, key regulatory strategies that ensure fai...

Get ready for an eye-opening episode as we sit down with Bill Miller, President of the American Gaming Association. We’re diving deep into the critical issues of illegal gaming and the undeniable need for a regulated market. Curious about how the gaming industry has evolved and what the future holds? Bill has the answers. We’ll explore how the AGA supports states with authorized gaming and tackle...

If you caught our last episode, you already know how Millionaire Parties are a unique avenue for charitable fundraising and their significant impact on local communities. This month, we’re taking a deeper dive into the behind-the-scenes aspects—specifically the licensing process, eligibility requirements, and the regulations that keep these events compliant. Joining us on this episode, are Tina Pe...

Our 19th episode features Kate Hude, Executive Director of the Michigan Charitable Gaming Association, and Diane Tubbs, Vice President of the Kiwanis Club of East Lansing. Together, they bring a wealth of experience and insights into the realm of Millionaire Parties and the profound benefits they bring to charities. Kate Hude is not only a Senior Association Management Specialist and Staff Attorne...

In this episode of Double Down Michigan, we are thrilled to welcome Dave Murley, Deputy Director of Online Gaming & Legal Affairs at the Michigan Gaming Control Board. With his extensive experience and deep expertise, Dave sheds light on the dynamic and rapidly evolving world of online gaming and sports betting in Michigan. Dave provides a comprehensive overview of his role at the MGCB and the...

Join us for this insightful episode of Double Down Michigan as we sit down with Coleen King, President & Founder of King Media, and Laurie DeYoung, Vice President, to learn more about MGCB's award-winning "Don’t Regret the Bet" integrated marketing campaign. Discover the innovative strategies and key messages behind this campaign aimed at promoting responsible gambling practices...