Rocco Leone: Online Casino Industry Expert at VegasInsider.com

Did you always have an interest in gambling, or was it something you discovered later?

I haven't always been interested in gambling, but as I've gotten older, I've come to enjoy sports gambling, roulette, and blackjack. While I don't love gambling, it can be fun occasionally, despite the risk of losing money.

What did you study in school or university? Did it influence your career?

At SUNY Oswego, I studied Journalism for two years then switched to Public Relations for my third and fourth year. Eventually, I received a bachelors degree in PR and a minor in Athletic Coaching. Due to the fact that I played baseball at SUNY Oswego, I enjoyed sports, sports betting and gambling with my peers. Combining my education and surroundings, I’d say it influenced my career greatly.

Casino Experience & Gaming Preferences

What’s the first casino you ever visited, and what was the experience like?

I’d say the first casino I’ve ever visited was the Turning Stone Casino, which is a 45 minute drive from where I live. It was chaos, slot machines everywhere, tables galore, and an overall stimulating atmosphere. It was fun, I wasn’t really sure where I should start, but the options seemed endless and it appeared as if some of these slot players were sitting there for hours.

What’s your favorite casino game and why?

My favorite casino game is roulette, I’ve played it the most, it’s relatively easy to play and I have the most fun especially at roulette tables that are at in-person casinos in a relaxed setting with my friends.

Writing & Industry Expertise

What advice would you give someone who wants to write about casinos for a living?

For someone who wants to write about casinos, the advice I would give is to learn the information, learn the games, study the key terms, and try to understand what complex casino terms that casino enthusiasts focus on.

Casino Industry Insights & Trends

Have you ever visited a casino outside of your home country? How did it compare?

I have never visited a casino outside of my home country that I remember. I used to travel to Canada for hockey when I was much younger, so I don’t doubt my father and his hockey buddies might’ve attended a casino in Canada without my recollection.

Fun & Personalized Questions

What’s one non-casino-related skill or hobby you’re passionate about?

I am very passionate about fashion, vintage clothing, and antiques. I have my own side business where I collect, curate, and resell vintage apparel, accessories, and antiques.

What’s your guilty pleasure game—something you know isn’t the best odds, but you love playing it anyway?

I don’t really have any guilty pleasure games, if it doesn’t have at least reasonable odds, I won’t even chance it.