“Ask the question, every time.” The Future of Tribal Gaming in California with James Siva

Insight in Indian Country Podcast

Trusted Expertise to Serve Tribal Nations | REDW National Tribal Practice

Episode 49 – “Ask the question, every time.” The Future of Tribal Gaming in California with James Siva

In this episode, Wesley Benally interviews James Siva, Vice Chairman of the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, discussing the dual perspectives of tribal leadership and gaming advocacy. They explore the future of gaming in California, the importance of balancing community values with economic decisions, and the need for economic diversification among tribal nations. Siva emphasizes the significance of engaging younger generations in the gaming industry and the power of inter-tribal collaboration. He also shares valuable advice for future tribal leaders, encouraging them to ask questions and embrace their unique perspectives.

Chapters

• 00:00 – Introduction to Tribal Leadership and Gaming Advocacy
• 03:09 – The Future of Gaming in California
• 05:54 – Balancing Community Values and Economic Decisions
• 09:09 – Economic Diversification for Tribal Nations
• 11:55 – Engaging the Younger Generations in Gaming
• 14:55 – Inter-Tribal Collaboration and National Impact
• 20:58 – Advice for Future Tribal Leaders

REDW Advisors and CPAs is proud to bring you the Insight in Indian Country Podcast, covering important advisory, accounting, and finance topics that impact Tribal Nations and business affairs.

Meet Your Host

Wesley Ryan Benally, CPA

REDW Principal and National Tribal Practice Leader

As the leader of REDW’s National Tribal Practice, Wes is committed to improving financial literacy throughout Indian Country and hosts the Insight in Indian Country Podcast. He oversees audits of a wide range for Native American communities, state and local government agencies, and non-profits nationwide, is a member of the Arizona State Board of Accountancy’s Peer Review Oversight Advisory Committee, and serves as an instructor with Arizona State University’s American Indian Policy Institute. In addition, as a Board member for a tribal gaming entity that operates in two states, Wes keeps up with regulatory issues important to tribal gaming operations. Wes is an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation.

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