Interview with Brett of Arbonnell from UNLV International Gaming Institute

Introduction

• Host: Tim Pool, Editor of Gambling Insider
• Guest: Brett, newly appointed executive director at the International Gaming Institute (IGI), UNLV

ICE Event Insights

• The current ICE event is notably larger compared to previous years, indicating a recovery from the COVID era
• Attendance reflects the diverse world of gambling including online, land-based, and various other forms

About IGI

• International Gaming Institute (IGI) celebrates its 30th anniversary this year
• Focuses on research, education, and innovation in gambling and risk-taking
• Areas of research: problem gambling, addiction, finance, operations, regulatory and policy work, socioeconomic impacts
• Multiple sub-centers and initiatives under IGI

Research Approach

• IGI promotes evidence-based best practices
• Neutral stance: Does not hold a pro or anti-gambling position but focuses on studying gambling objectively

Industry Collaboration

• Works with various stakeholders including gambling operators, policymakers, regulators, problem gambling clinicians, public health groups, lawyers, data providers, and payment providers
• Types of collaboration: Contracted research projects, education programs, and innovation (e.g., game development)

Brett's Background

• Grew up in Del Mar, Southern California, near a horse race track
• Developed an interest in gambling in mid to late teens
• Majored in statistics and wrote a senior thesis on predicting horse race outcomes
• Involved in poker during the poker boom era and met her husband through poker
• Moved to Las Vegas and joined IGI, combining her background in math and statistics with her interest in gambling
• Pursued an academic career in gambling research

Future Goals

• Continue and expand upon the foundational work at IGI
• Key programs: Center for Gaming Innovation, International Center for Gaming Regulation, responsible and safer gambling, DEI initiatives, workforce and leadership development
• Personal interest areas: Video games and e-sports
• Recent initiatives: Partnership with Gaming Society to educate sports bettors and promote women in sports betting

Closing Remarks

• The Lionesses (UK women's football team) are favorites to win the World Cup, highlighting the potential growth of women's sports
• Brett's excitement about contributing to IGI's future and her diverse interests in gambling-related fields