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

Latest Episodes:

Episode 44: Blocking the Bet: Inside the MGCB’s Partnership with Gamban Oct 22, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of Double Down Michigan, Director of External Affairs and Responsible Gaming Jasmine Moreland sits down with Matt Zarb-Cousin, Co-Founder and Director of External Affairs at Gamban, the market-leading gambling-blocking software, to talk about the success of the MGCB’s partnership with the platform. Matt has spoken about his own experience with gambling addiction and recovery, campaigned for gambling reform in the UK, and helped build Gamban into a tool that has now passed one million downloads.
The conversation covers how Michigan’s free Gamban licenses have been received since launch, how the technology actually works across devices, and why data matters for measuring the program’s impact, including why the MGCB is beginning to collect a minimal amount of it. Matt also shares how other departments, employers, or organizations can get involved, and what he’s learned from Gamban’s work with governments, regulators, and other partners.
Whether you're curious how gambling-blocking technology works, want to understand how public-private partnerships strengthen responsible gaming, or are looking for a practical tool for yourself or a loved one, this episode offers a look at one of Michigan’s newest lines of defense against gambling harm.

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Episode 43: Responsible Gaming: Support, Treatment, and Awareness Sep 24, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of Double Down Michigan, Executive Director Henry Williams sits down with Lori Mello, Program Manager of MDHHS’s Gambling Helpline and Treatment Program, in recognition of September as Responsible Gaming Education Month. Lori brings decades of experience in social work, counseling, and community-based support to a conversation about how Michigan helps residents affected by problem gambling.
The conversation covers what responsible gaming really means, where it differs from problem gambling, and how Lori’s background working with at-risk families, domestic violence survivors, and other vulnerable populations shapes her approach to both prevention and treatment. Along the way, Lori shares what she wishes more people understood about gambling responsibly — and how the Michigan Gaming Control Board’s responsible gaming mission fits into the bigger picture of player protection.
Whether you're in the gaming industry, know someone affected by problem gambling, or simply want to understand the resources available in Michigan, this episode shines a light on the human side of responsible gaming.

If you or someone you know needs help, the Michigan Gambling Helpline is available 24/7 at 1-800-270-7117.

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Episode 42: Behind the Screen: Auditing Michigan’s iGaming Industry Aug 27, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of Double Down Michigan, Executive Director Henry Williams sits down with David Hicks and Tom Shouldice — the Manager and Audit Manager of the iGaming Audit Section — at the Michigan Gaming Control Board, for a look inside the fastest-growing corner of Michigan’s gaming industry. David and Tom break down what it actually takes to audit an online casino platform, from verifying reported revenue to making sure every licensed operator is meeting the same rigorous standards as their brick-and-mortar counterparts.
The conversation covers how technology has changed the way the agency monitors compliance, what triggers a deeper look into an operator, and how the audit process ultimately protects Michigan players. Along the way, David and Tom share what the public doesn’t typically see — and where they think iGaming regulation is headed next.
Whether you're a gaming industry professional, a policy wonk, or just curious how online betting is kept honest, this episode pulls back the curtain on the people and processes behind Michigan’s iGaming oversight.

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Episode 41: Inside the House Jun 25, 2026

Show notes

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, Jason and Steven break down what the agency is actually looking for when it walks through a casino's doors — and why it matters.
The conversation also turns to the rapidly evolving world of casino gaming, exploring how online platforms tied to Detroit's three commercial casinos are audited, monitored, and held to the same standards of accountability as their brick-and-mortar counterparts. Along the way, the guys share what the public doesn't see behind the scenes and where they see the industry heading.
Whether you're a gaming industry professional, a policy wonk, or simply someone who's ever wondered who's watching the watchers — this episode offers a rare, inside look at the people and processes keeping Michigan's commercial gaming industry honest.

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Episode 40: Inside the MGCB’s Criminal Investigations Section May 28, 2026

Show notes

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, state police, and local agencies to investigate illegal gambling and protect the integrity of Michigan’s gaming industry. The section also manages an anonymous tip line for the public, fielding hundreds of leads each year and turning credible information into action.

Whether you’re a Michigan resident curious about how illegal gambling is kept in check, a gaming industry professional, or simply someone who wants to understand how a regulatory agency enforces the law, this episode pulls back the curtain on a critical part of the MGCB’s mission.

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Episode 39: Many Hats, One Mission Apr 30, 2026

Show notes

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 Language Access Coordinator, she ensures that Michigan’s diverse communities — regardless of the language they speak — can access and understand the agency’s work. And as People and Culture Manager, she works to build a workplace where staff feel valued, supported, and connected with a shared purpose.

Together, Henry and Keesha explore how all these roles intersect — and why strong communication is at the heart of everything the MGCB does.

Whether you’re a Michigan resident curious about how your state’s gaming industry is regulated, a gaming industry professional, or simply someone who believes that good government starts with clear and inclusive communication, this episode is for you.

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Episode 38: Responsible Gaming and Youth Awareness Mar 26, 2026

Show notes

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 risks — especially for young people.

Listeners will also learn more about the new Boosters Program, a statewide initiative led by the Michigan Gaming Control Board in partnership with King Media. Designed for school-affiliated booster clubs, the program provides free, evidence-based resources to help parents, coaches, and students better understand youth gambling risks.

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Episode 37: Inside the Boardroom Feb 26, 2026

Show notes

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, Chair Ananich shares how his background shapes his approach to leadership and community impact. Listeners will gain insight into his priorities for the Board, the role of consumer protection, and what he hopes to accomplish during his term through 2028.

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Episode 36: Recognizing and Responding to Human Trafficking in Gaming Environments Jan 22, 2026

Show notes

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 Director, for an in-depth conversation on human trafficking and its intersection with the gaming industry. Drawing from her Human Trafficking 101 training, Tiffany explains the realities behind common myths, outlines the federal framework that guides anti-trafficking efforts, and highlights the vulnerabilities and indicators gaming professionals should be aware of.
Listeners will learn how trafficking situations often present in subtle and complex ways, why both sex and labor trafficking impact communities across Michigan, and how employees in casinos, online gaming operations, and hospitality settings can play a meaningful role in identifying and supporting victims. Tiffany also shares practical guidance on trauma-informed responses, industry-specific tools and resources, and steps organizations can take to build stronger prevention practices.
This episode serves as an essential introduction for anyone working in gaming regulation, operations, or public safety—and underscores the shared responsibility to protect individuals who may be at risk or in need of help.

If you would like to contact Tiffany Martinez, please reach out to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Human Trafficking Health Advisory Board at MDHHS-HTHAB@Michigan.gov

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Episode 35: Supporting Individuals and Families Affected by Gambling Addiction Dec 11, 2025

Show notes

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 them to recognize the impact of gambling, rebuild trust, and develop practical tools for lasting recovery. With the upcoming holiday season often bringing increased stress and opportunities to gamble, Mike discusses strategies for staying mindful, avoiding risky behaviors, and maintaining healthy boundaries, while also highlighting the importance of early intervention, compassion, and honesty in supporting a stable, fulfilling life.

For anyone who may be struggling or knows someone who is, help is available. You can find free, confidential support by calling the 1-800-GAMBLER helpline or visiting our agency’s website at Michigan.gov/MGCB to learn more about our responsible gaming initiatives.

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