Innovation and Technology.
At the heart of the 2025 FSGA Summer Conference is our theme: Innovation and Technology — the driving forces shaping the future of fantasy sports and sports gaming.
This year’s Sessions & Speakers lineup brings together the boldest minds and leading voices at the forefront of this evolution. From startup disruptors to seasoned industry leaders, our speakers will deliver powerful insights and forward-thinking solutions you can apply directly to your business.
What to Expect:
- Keynotes and Panels exploring how emerging tech like AI, blockchain, and real-time data are transforming fan engagement and operations
- Deep-Dive Sessions into the future of sports betting platforms, fantasy app innovation, and regulatory tech trends
- Interactive Talks on the intersection of innovation, legislation, and consumer behavior
- Opportunities to Connect with the trailblazers reimagining the landscape of fantasy sports and gaming
Whether you’re looking to stay ahead of the curve or be the one who sets it, this is where your next big idea begins. Will we see you in Chicago?
Fireside Chat: Kay Adams & Nate Ravitz – The Future of Sports Media & Fan Engagement
Panel Description
Join us for an exclusive fireside chat at the 2025 FSGA Summer Conference featuring Kay Adams, the dynamic host and creator of Up & Adams, and Nate Ravitz, former ESPN SVP & a Fantasy Sports Writers Association Hall of Famer. The two will explore Adams’ journey from SiriusXM to NBC Sports to Good Morning Football to building her own multiplatform NFL brand as well as her approach to authenticity in sports media and how she connects with fans across TV, streaming, and social platforms.
Join us for an exclusive fireside chat at the 2025 FSGA Summer Conference featuring Kay Adams, the dynamic host and creator of Up & Adams, and Nate Ravitz, former ESPN SVP & a Fantasy Sports Writers Association Hall of Famer. The two will explore Adams’ journey from SiriusXM to NBC Sports to Good Morning Football to building her own multiplatform NFL brand as well as her approach to authenticity in sports media and how she connects with fans across TV, streaming, and social platforms.
Leveraging AI to Develop Products and Content: Tips and Traps
Panel Description
Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing product development across the fantasy sports and sports betting industries, but building smart doesn’t always mean building fast. This panel dives into the practical side of using AI to create innovative, efficient, and scalable products and content. Experts will share how to leverage key tools and platforms – like machine-learning models, data-enrichment APIs, and predictive-analytics engines – and how to integrate them into your product workflows.
Robbie Allen
Automated Consulting GroupRobbie Allen is Managing Director of Automated Consulting Group and a pioneer in AI-driven sports analytics and content automation. In 2007, he founded StatSheet, one of the first internet-enabled sports analytics platforms, providing real-time, data-rich insights for college basketball fans. He later launched Automated Insights in 2010, making it one of the first commercial generative AI companies. Automated Insights’ Wordsmith platform produced personalized, automated content for leading fantasy sports and media organizations—including Yahoo Fantasy, FanDuel, and the Associated Press—helping scale player notes, recaps, and stats-driven articles to millions of users.
Today, Robbie leads AI strategy and consulting engagements for companies seeking to harness generative AI for product innovation, workflow automation, and data-driven content.
Sam Factor
WalterPicksSam is the founder and CEO of WalterPicks, a mobile app that leverages a machine learning algorithm (Walter) to help sports fans make the most informed, intelligent, and responsible decisions in fantasy sports and betting. WalterPicks represents the fusion of three of Sam’s favorite things: fantasy football, math, and content creation.
In addition to his role as founder and CEO, Sam is a video content creator on the WalterPicks team. He has personally created hundreds of fantasy football videos and leads a team of 32 short-form video creators who have collectively produced thousands of videos, resulting in billions of impressions and millions of followers across TikTok and Instagram.
To date, the WalterPicks app has been installed over 1,200,000 times on the iOS and Google Play app stores, reaching as high as #4 in the sports app rankings. Prior to founding WalterPicks, Sam participated in Teach For America, teaching high school mathematics in Chelsea, MA.
Dr. Patrick Lucey
Stats PerformDr. Patrick Lucey is currently the Chief Scientist at sports data giant Stats Perform, where he leads the AI team with the goal of maximizing the value of the company’s deep treasure troves of sports data. He has studied and worked in the AI field for the past 20 years, holding research positions at Disney Research and the Robotics Institute at Carnegie Mellon University, as well as spending time at IBM’s T.J. Watson Research Center while pursuing his Ph.D.
Originally from Australia, Dr. Lucey received his BEng (EE) from the University of Southern Queensland and a doctorate from Queensland University of Technology, where his research focused on multimodal speech modeling. He has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed papers and has been a co-author on papers in the MIT Sloan Best Research Paper Track in 11 of the last 13 years, winning Best Paper in 2016 and runner-up in 2017 and 2018. His main research interests lie in artificial intelligence and interactive machine learning in sporting domains.
Brad Weitz
Data SkriveBrad is an entrepreneurial leader who has focused his career on marketing technology innovation. For the last eight years he has been leading Data Skrive who partners with companies like FanDuel, DraftKings, Fox Sports, USA Today, The Associated Press serve sports fans globally.
Technology Peace of Mind: Cybersecurity, User Data Protection and Payments
Panel Description
In an era where digital threats are constantly evolving, ensuring the security of user data and payment systems is paramount for fantasy sports and gaming platforms. This panel will delve into the latest strategies and technologies employed to safeguard user information, maintain payment integrity, and uphold trust in an increasingly complex digital landscape. Join industry leaders as they share insights, experiences, and actionable strategies to fortify your platform’s security infrastructure.
Josh Chapman
AeropayJosh Chapman is the COO of Aeropay, an account-to-account payments company that focuses on highly regulated industries. In his role Josh is responsible for many functional areas of the business including Corporate Development, HR, Payment Operations, Client Experience, Revenue Operations, Solutions Engineering and Legal.
Beginning his career in the credit card division of Signet Bank, which would spin out and IPO as Capital One, Josh has been the CEO and COO of multiple start-ups – and also worked for large corporations like Allianz and Xerox. Over his 30 year career he has scaled multiple organizations and has been a part of three exits generating more than $3.5 billion to shareholders.
A proud Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) alumnus, Josh is a published author and keynote speaker. He also serves on the Board of LaRabida Children’s Hospital, as an advisor to multiple startups and is a member of the Economic Club of Chicago.
Glenn Colton
ArentFox Schiff, LLPGlenn Colton is a partner at the law firm ArentFox Schiff and a member of the FSGA Hall of Fame for his role in the landmark litigation that preserved the right of fantasy companies to use player names in fantasy contests. Prior to entering private practice, Glenn served for ten years as a federal prosecutor in New York City.
Stewart Deken
RubinBrownStewart Deken is the Cybersecurity Manager at RubinBrown and serves as the firm’s lead digital forensic investigator. He has more than seven years of information security experience, primarily working as a computer forensic analyst. His experience includes conducting forensic examinations and assisting local, state, and federal agencies with a wide variety of criminal investigations. He has completed advanced training with the Secret Service, served as an FBI Task Force Officer, and testified in both state and federal courts as an expert witness in computer forensics.
Over the past several years, Stewart has led RubinBrown’s Nevada Regulation 5 security assessment efforts and online sports betting assessments. (Note: While his expertise is more focused on investigations than incident response, he is prepared to share insights and trends regarding threats and compromises observed across industries over the past year or two.)
Jamie Garcia
Continent 8 TechnologiesJamie Garcia is a seasoned technology professional with over a decade of experience spanning cybersecurity, software quality assurance, and project management within the regulated gaming and technology sectors. Currently serving as Project Manager Account Director at Continent 8 Technologies, Jamie works closely with operators and technology partners to drive secure, scalable solutions that meet the demands of today’s digital landscape.
Her previous roles at Gaming Laboratories International and Scientific Games have equipped her with deep expertise in regulatory compliance, client success, and delivering high-assurance technology across global markets. With a background in electronic engineering and a passion for fostering trust through technology, Jamie brings a unique perspective on cybersecurity, user data protection, and the evolving payment ecosystem.
Lines in the Sand: Evolving Legal Frontiers in Event Contracts, Sweepstakes, and Crypto
Panel Description
As innovation continues to outpace regulation in sports betting and skill gaming, legal uncertainty looms over emerging products and business models. This panel will explore three of the most pressing and high-stakes issues confronting the industry: (1) Sports event contracts as tradable markets under the jurisdiction of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC); (2) increasingly popular free-to-play sweepstakes gaming models; and (3) the evolving regulatory landscape for cryptocurrency in gaming.
David Huffman
SporttradeDavid is the Chief Operating Officer of Sporttrade, a regulated sports prediction market focused on bringing price transparency, liquidity, and reduced transaction costs to sports betting. With a deep understanding of the sports betting landscape and a passion for market-based innovation, David has been instrumental in developing the operational framework and strategic vision that drive Sporttrade’s success.
A recognized thought leader in the industry, David has been featured on ESPN and various media outlets, where he shares insights on the evolution of sports betting, exchange-based wagering, and the future of the industry. As a speaker, he offers a data-driven, innovative perspective on how betting markets can become more efficient, liquid, and consumer-friendly.
Rachel Sher
StokasticRachel Sher is a seasoned business and legal leader with extensive experience in startup and growth-stage companies. She currently serves as General Counsel at Stokastic, a leading sports analytics and betting tools company designed to help fantasy players and bettors make smarter decisions through data-driven insights.
Previously, Rachel was Counsel and Director of Business Development at CH/LL Meditation, where she partnered with organizations to deliver workplace wellness programs focused on mindfulness and stress reduction. At CH/LL, she led cross-sector sales initiatives and contributed to the development and launch of the Chill Anywhere app, which offers live and on-demand programming.
Before CH/LL, Rachel served as VP of Marketing and Business Development at PowerNotes, an edtech company that provides web-based research tools for higher education students. There, she helped shape and execute the company’s sales and marketing strategy, expanding its partner institutions from 30 to over 100.
Rachel began her legal career as an associate in the Intellectual Property group at Sidley Austin. She holds a BA from Northwestern University and a JD from the University of Chicago Law School.
Marc Zwillinger
ZwillGen PLLCMarc Zwillinger is the founder and managing member of ZwillGen PLLC. He began his career as a DOJ prosecutor, where he was responsible for developing departmental policy regarding fantasy sports products. Over the past two decades, Marc has played a key role in launching fantasy sports competitions for numerous operators, including navigating investigations, litigation, and the eventual regulation of these products across the country. He has drafted legal opinions, advised on compliance issues related to sportsbook system design, and defended companies in litigation, investigations, and regulatory inquiries from gaming authorities. Marc also regularly counsels companies on gambling law compliance for various gaming entities, including those offering skill-based games and sweepstakes-style gaming.
Reimagining Products, Technology, Gaming, and Fan Engagement
Panel Description
The digital sports landscape is evolving at lightning speed – and innovation is at the heart of it all. This panel brings together forward-thinking operators, technologists, and media leaders that are pushing boundaries across fantasy sports, sports betting, and digital engagement. From reimagining seasonal formats, DFS, and Pick ‘Em games to launching new tech platforms and content strategies, our panelists will explore what’s next in game design, player tools, media coverage, and fan interaction.
Will Tighe
FantasySpinWill is the Chief Experience Officer at FantasySpin, where he leads the company’s entire end-to-end product experience. Working closely with the CEO and Board of Directors, Will leverages product strategy to drive revenue and innovation in the fantasy sports space. His role spans overseeing teams in Research, Design, BI, QA, Engineering, CRM, and more, with a focus on building world-class user experiences and solving complex problems.
Prior to FantasySpin, Will co-founded BettorFantasy, a daily fantasy sports operator that was acquired by FantasySpin in 2023. He has earned recognition as one of the gaming industry’s “20 in their 20s” and was the winner of the 2023 FSGA Elevator Pitch competition. Will also serves on the Board of Directors for the Fantasy Sports & Gaming Association.
Brian Huss
PrizePicksBrian Huss has been a leader and innovator in the fantasy, gaming, and entertainment industries for two decades. As VP Product at PrizePicks, Brian oversees the industry-leading game experiences that have made PrizePicks the leading daily fantasy provider in North America. Previously, Brian was VP Product developing Fantasy, Free to Play, and Skill Games at FanDuel, led growth and innovation teams for NBA Digital (a joint venture with Turner Sports), and spent four years as Senior Director of Fantasy Games at CBS Sports.
Brian has been involved with FSGA since 2015. He currently sits on the FSGA’s awards, research, and conference committees, and has spoken about innovation and fan engagement at multiple FSGA and SBC events.
T.K. Gore
KisweHead of Sports Business Development, Kiswe. Cofounder, Sheridan Talent. Board advisor, Chicago House AC. Investor, Oakland Ballers. Media advisor. Past roles at Comcast, NBC Sports Group, Universal Sports, AOL, Time Warner, HTS/Orioles TV, AP, Phenix Real Time Solutions, Comscore, Chicago Fire FC Foundation Board. Served as adjunct professor at Northwestern University and University of Chicago. John Wall Street Top-50 Sports Business Follows.
Women Innovators in Sports: Leading, Creating, and Changing the Game
Panel Description
From front offices to front pages, women are shaping the future of sports like never before. Learn from this dynamic panel of influential women how to navigate the evolving landscape, maximize leadership opportunities, and how the industry can continue to foster diversity, equity, and opportunity. Whether you’re on the tech or media side of the business, this conversation will leave you inspired and informed.
Chelsie Cooper
ApprovelyChelsie Cooper is the Founder and CEO of Approvely, a woman-led payments company focused on powering the next generation of online gaming and fantasy sports. With over 15 years in the payments industry, Chelsie launched Approvely to bring speed, security, and compliance to hard-to-place markets.
In 2024, she led the launch of Rapid, the first-to-market stablecoin payout platform specifically designed for the gaming industry—solving a critical need for instant, compliant settlements. Under her leadership, Approvely has become a trusted provider to fantasy sports operators of all sizes, offering everything from merchant onboarding to fraud prevention in a single solution.
Chelsie is passionate about building tools that empower operators and believes in fostering diverse, values-driven teams. She frequently speaks on payments, compliance, and innovation in regulated industries, and is proud to represent female leadership in gaming and fintech.
Claudia Bellofatto
NBC Sports BostonClaudia Bellofatto has worked across several platforms, including MLB Network, New England Sports Network, NBC Sports Boston, CBS Sports, and DraftKings, as a sports host, reporter, and analyst. She has five years of experience in the betting space.
Kamini Manivannan
Laces SportsKamini Manivannan is a Data Science professional and the Founder and CEO of Laces Sports, a mobile fantasy sports app designed for women and casual fans. With a degree in Data Science from Northwestern University, Kamini has built a career at the intersection of analytics and sports. She previously served as a Data Science Manager at the NFL, where she focused on fan engagement and product strategy, and held data-driven roles with the Brooklyn Nets and the USTA, improving ticketing, fan experience, and business operations.
Laces Sports reimagines the fantasy experience by guiding users through gameplay using an AI assistant and short, interactive lessons that teach sports fundamentals. The platform rewards users with points redeemable for real-world perks and fosters a social, inclusive community.
Kamini also serves on the Digital Committee for Women in Sports & Events (WISE) and the Research Committee for the Fantasy Sports & Gaming Association.
The Playbook to Starting a Fantasy Sports or Sports Betting Company
Panel Description
How do you bring your idea for the next breakout fantasy sports or sports betting business to life? This interactive workshop is for founders looking to turn their vision into reality. Industry veterans and startup veterans will break down the core components of launching your company – from evaluating the market and validating your idea to understanding the legal landscape, building an MVP, and securing early funding. Learn what investors are really looking for, how to navigate regulatory challenges, and where to focus your energy in the short-term.
Artie Baxter
Golden CamelArtie Baxter is the co-founder of Golden Camel, a one-stop app that simplifies and supercharges the fan experience—think Apple TV for sports betting. By connecting users to all their favorite sportsbooks in one sleek interface, Golden Camel brings clarity, speed, and fun to the world of sports betting.
He’s also a luxury real estate advisor at The Agency, specializing in high-end homes across Scottsdale, Arcadia, and Paradise Valley. Known for his creative marketing and sharp negotiation skills, Artie helps clients make confident, strategic moves.
Before launching Golden Camel and breaking into real estate, Artie worked as an actor—an experience that sharpened his storytelling and communication skills, which still shape his approach today.
A proud dad of three, Artie coaches youth sports and stays active in the local community. He’s also the co-host of a self-deprecating sports and lifestyle podcast presented by Golden Camel.
Mark Phillip
MetaBetMark Phillip is the CEO of MetaBet, a sports-centric B2B platform that powers patented curation and automated monetization tools to unlock new affiliate revenue from sports-focused content.
Blake Hart
Vela Wood P.C.Blake Hart is a senior attorney a Vela Wood. She advises clients across industries with a particular focus in contract drafting, review, and negotiation on behalf of sports, gaming, and entertainment individuals and enterprises.
Edward Moed
Hot Paper LanternEdward Moed is the CEO and co-founder of Hot Paper Lantern, a brand development, PR, and marketing firm that specializes in the iGaming and sports betting marketplace.
Ed has worked with many start-up companies to help them create go-to-market plans, advise on positioning and growth strategies, and execute programs that drive success in the marketplace.
Inside the Huddle with Establish The Run, Taylor Caby, Evan Silva & John Daigle
Panel Description
Get ready to go beyond the box scores in this can’t-miss Ask Me Anything session with industry stalwarts Evan Silva (co-founder), Taylor Caby (co-founder) and John Daigle (analyst) to examine the rise of Establish The Run. From industry-shaping fantasy football analysis to building one of the most trusted brands in sports betting and DFS content, the team will share the highs, lows, and pivotal decisions that defined their journey. Whether you’re a founder, fantasy fanatic, or content creator, bring your questions and curiosity for a wide-open conversation with three of the most influential voices in the game. No filters. Just football, business, and the path to Establish The Run.
Taylor Caby
Establish the RunTaylor Caby is the co-founder and CEO of Establish The Run. While in college, he got his start in the gambling industry as a professional poker player, competing successfully at the highest stakes. He has twenty years of entrepreneurial experience across fantasy sports, sports betting, and poker, having founded several successful niche businesses in software and media. Additionally, he has operational experience in both daily fantasy sports (DFS) and sports betting.
John Daigle
Establish the RunJohn Daigle is an Emmy and FSWA award winner who has been covering the NFL and fantasy football for over a decade. He enjoys watching golf and Jon Moxley—not necessarily in that order. You can follow him on Twitter @notJDaigle.
