Level Up with Wondr

LaRenda Morgan is a leading advocate in Indigenous policy, transforming the fight against the Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP) crisis through groundbreaking legislation and grassroots efforts. She joins the podcast to discuss how tribal communities are using education, awareness, advocacy to address the MMIP crisis, prevent violence, and honor those lost.

The Wondr Nation Professional Services team joins the podcast to share the ways in which they are helping gaming operators grow through digital strategy, platform partnerships, and activations. They discuss the additive advantage of social products for brick-and-mortar loyalty and how Wondr Nation Professional Services is uniquely positioned to address challenges and opportunities in the constantly evolving digital landscape.

Contact the Professional Services team via LinkedIn or professionalservices@wondrnation.com to learn how we can help you level up your digital strategy! 

March is Problem Gambling Awareness Month and we are highlighting the work of Ivory Kelly, founder and CEO of the Tribal Council for Responsible Gaming and 2025 Indian Gaming Association Regulator of the Year. Ivory joins the podcast to share her best practices for those looking to level up their responsible gaming initiatives and strategy, emphasizing the importance of cultural pride, technological innovation, and community care.

It’s time for another African Americans in Gaming (AAG) Black History Month Takeover as guest hosts Jeff Gray and Ashley Kougher interview executive coach Tanisha Parrish. With over 20 years of experience helping leaders and organizations perform at their best, Tanisha shares valuable insights and strategies for high performing professionals looking to lead with confidence, clarity, and authenticity. Tune in for her top three tips on how you can level up your professional mindset and become a strategic leader who truly influences and inspires.

Level Up with Wondr is entering it’s third year! Rotating hosts Anika Howard, Dyani Marvel, and Jordyn Mihok discuss their favorite conversations from Season 2 and reflect on lessons learned while sharing their own tips for leveling up personally and professionally. 

To close out Native American Heritage Month, Wondr Nation President & CEO Anika Howard speaks with Rodney Butler, Chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation on his career journey and experiences in tribal government. Their conversation highlights the importance of perseverance and community engagement while exploring current challenges and opportunities for the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe and Indian Country at large. Chairman provides insights on the impact of gaming revenue on providing essential services and preserving heritage while also highlighting the importance of respecting sovereignty and fostering strong partnerships.

In honor of Native American Heritage Month, Rebecca Naragon joins the podcast to discuss her role as Economic Development Director for United South and Eastern Tribes, Inc. (USET). Her conversation with Wondr Nation VP of Marketing Strategy and Operations Dyani Marvel highlights the power of economic storytelling and growth and innovation in tribal industries. Rebecca provides valuable insights on the impacts of supporting Native entrepreneurs and tribal enterprises, while emphasizing the importance of community development.

To honor Hispanic Heritage Month, we're featuring Elaine Gómez, game designer, co-founder and current president of Latinx in Gaming. Elaine joins the podcast to share the story of her career journey, finding inspiration, and the importance of a player-centric approach to game design. She discusses the potential for social impact in game design, the importance of community, and provides advice for aspiring developers. 

September is Responsible Gaming Education Month and we're featuring Melodie Keen, a behavioral health veteran with over 40 years of experience and a recognized expert in gambling addiction. In her conversation with Wondr Nation VP Marketing & Strategy Dyani Marvel, Melodie dives into the specifics of gambling addiction treatment and how her own career path has shaped her approach. She provides insights on individualized treatment methods while emphasizing the importance of understanding gambling addiction as a mental health disorder.

Nia Grace, restaurateur, entrepreneur, and owner of Grace by Nia, joins the podcast to discuss her career journey, from her start in marketing and hospitality, to building successful businesses for herself and others. She provides insights on overcoming challenges, the importance of community, and the power of flexibility. Her conversation with Wondr Nation VP of Marketing and Operations Dyani Marvel highlights her passion for creating immersive experiences blending food, culture, and entertainment.