What the Pros Say: Interviews with Online Gambling Veterans
Online gambling veterans come from all walks of life—former casino dealers, data Raja Game analysts, full-time poker players, and even casual bettors who turned their passion into a side hustle. In 2025, the digital gambling world is more competitive and complex than ever, requiring a mix of skill, discipline, and tech-savviness. To gain deeper insight into what separates winners from the rest, we spoke with several experienced online gamblers who have spent years navigating the highs and lows of this fast-paced industry.
Jake Moreno, a professional online poker player from Las Vegas, emphasizes that success comes down to discipline and preparation, not luck. “People think I just sit around waiting for a royal flush. In reality, it’s about studying hand histories, understanding player behavior, and knowing when to fold,” he says. Jake spends over 40 hours a week grinding online tournaments and reviewing sessions with software tools. For him, emotional control is just as important as card knowledge: “Tilt is the real killer. Once your emotions take over, you’re done.”
Sophie Tan, a former data analyst turned sports betting consultant, uses her background in statistics to outsmart the odds. “Most people bet with their heart—on their favorite team or player. That’s where the house wins. I bet with data.” Sophie builds custom algorithms to analyze player performance, injury reports, and weather conditions before placing any bets. Her advice? “Forget the flashy promos. Stick to the niche markets where you can find value, and always, always track your bets.”
It may surprise some, but even slot machines have their dedicated strategists. Marco DiStefano, a retired IT specialist from Italy, has been playing online slots seriously for over a decade. His secret? Bonus hunting. “It’s not about hitting the jackpot. It’s about maximizing RTP (return to player) and finding the best bonus offers with low wagering requirements,” Marco explains. He warns that most casual players ignore the fine print. “Know the terms, or you’re throwing money away.”
Emma Clarke, a professional blackjack player based in the UK, thrives in live dealer environments. “It’s the closest thing to a real casino, but you need to treat it seriously,” she says. Emma uses basic strategy religiously and avoids games with side bets and flashy variants. Her biggest tip: avoid multitasking. “You’re playing in real-time with real stakes—this isn’t the moment to scroll Instagram or check your email.” Her focus has helped her maintain consistent winnings over the years.
All the veterans interviewed agree on one thing: online gambling is not a shortcut to riches. It’s a discipline that requires research, strategy, and a mindset that prioritizes long-term sustainability over short-term wins. Whether it’s poker, sports betting, or slots, the pros treat gambling like a skill-based pursuit—not a game of chance. Their advice to newcomers? Start small, stay informed, and never gamble more than you can afford to lose. As Sophie puts it, “If you’re not tracking your results, you’re just another fish in the sea.”