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

Episode 41: Inside the House

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.          Facebook: MichiganGCB [https://www.facebook.com/MichiganGCB] Twitter: @MichiganGCB [https://twitter.com/MichiganGCB] Instagram:  @michigangcb) [https://www.instagram.com/michigangcb/] LinkedIn: michigangcb [https://www.linkedin.com/company/michigangcb/]

Episode 40: Inside the MGCB’s Criminal Investigations Section

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.    Facebook: MichiganGCB [https://www.facebook.com/MichiganGCB] Twitter: @MichiganGCB [https://twitter.com/MichiganGCB] Instagram:  @michigangcb) [https://www.instagram.com/michigangcb/] LinkedIn: michigangcb [https://www.linkedin.com/company/michigangcb/]

Episode 39: Many Hats, One Mission

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.    Facebook: MichiganGCB [https://www.facebook.com/MichiganGCB] Twitter: @MichiganGCB [https://twitter.com/MichiganGCB] Instagram:  @michigangcb) [https://www.instagram.com/michigangcb/] LinkedIn: michigangcb [https://www.linkedin.com/company/michigangcb/]

Episode 38: Responsible Gaming and Youth Awareness

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.    Facebook: MichiganGCB [https://www.facebook.com/MichiganGCB] Twitter: @MichiganGCB [https://twitter.com/MichiganGCB] Instagram:  @michigangcb) [https://www.instagram.com/michigangcb/] LinkedIn: michigangcb [https://www.linkedin.com/company/michigangcb/]

Episode 37: Inside the Boardroom

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.    Facebook: MichiganGCB [https://www.facebook.com/MichiganGCB] Twitter: @MichiganGCB [https://twitter.com/MichiganGCB] Instagram:  @michigangcb) [https://www.instagram.com/michigangcb/] LinkedIn: michigangcb [https://www.linkedin.com/company/michigangcb/]