The iGaming Leader Podcast

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

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,

Mark Schmidt

Managing Director, EveryMatrix

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01 · Watch the episode

The full conversation

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02 · The guest

Mark Schmidt

Managing Director, EveryMatrix

16 Year career in iGaming focusing exclusively on Africa. I've worked for the industry's leading B2B providers in senior roles with the likes of Sportradar and IMG. My career started off in B2C as the head of trading for Hollywood Bets where my love of horse racing began. I'm a dad to 3 girls and have been married for 10 years to my amazing wife Derryn. I'm currently with EveryMartrix and I'm the Managing Director - Africa.

Follow Mark on LinkedIn →

03 · Inside this episode

Moments worth queuing up

00:00 Introduction

02:50 Mark's early career at Hollywood Bets

07:09 Struggles with mental health and alcohol in high-pressure roles

09:03 Suicidal ideation and coming out of rock bottom

14:35 Feeling alone and imposter syndrome

18:49 Dealing with social expectations in gaming

21:40 Building a peer support network for others in the industry

25:59 Generational shifts, asking for help, and creating change before it's too late

28:44 Just get help

33:15 Advice for Gaming Leaders who feel the same way

In his own words

01 / 04

“Although I was there in body, I wasn't there in mind.”

02 / 04

“The world's changed a hell of a lot. There are so many different ways that you can get help now.”

03 / 04

“If I was able to get to a better point, anyone can do it.”

04 / 04

“Just get help. Even if it's a friend. Don't try to solve it in your own head.”

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Important links

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