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.
More from Insight in Indian Country
- NAFOA 43rd Annual ConferenceFrom April 28-29 in New Orleans, REDW will be joining with tribes, state and federal government officials, and leading industry experts to discuss the latest economic issues in Indian Country.
- The true cost of reactive internal controls in tribal gaming operations.As tribal casinos handle more cash than most banks, proactive security measures have become crucial for protecting assets and communities.
- Ransomware: Are You on a Hacker’s Hit List?Join the Cybersecurity experts from REDW for an interactive webinar that offers five critical defense strategies for safeguarding your Tribal organization, plus our free Cyber Incident Response Playbook.
- Oklahoma Tribal Finance Consortium 2025 Spring ConferenceAs a proud supporter and sponsor of the OTFC, REDW will be both speaking and exhibiting at this event.
- “Nothing beats a warm welcome.” Innovating the Casino Experience with John JamesJohn James and Wes Benally discuss the importance of customer experience and the role of innovation in the tribal gaming industry.
