Insight in Indian Country Podcast
Trusted Expertise to Serve Tribal Nations | REDW National Tribal Practice
Episode 50 – “Show up, work hard, and be honest.”🤝The Economic Impact of Tribal Gaming with Rebecca George
This episode, REDW National Tribal Practice Leader, Wesley Benally, welcomes Rebecca George, Executive Director of the Washington Indian Gaming Association, to the podcast. They discuss the misconceptions surrounding tribal gaming, the economic impact it has on communities in the Pacific Northwest, and the importance of education and advocacy in navigating state-tribal relations in Washington. Rebecca shares insights on the diversification of tribal economies beyond gaming and the future trends in gaming technology. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration and education to support tribal sovereignty and empower future leaders.
Chapters
- 00:00 – Introduction to Tribal Gaming and Misconceptions
- 02:50 – The Impact of Gaming on Tribal Communities
- 05:51 – Navigating State-Tribal Relations
- 09:01 – Economic Diversification Beyond Gaming
- 11:47 – Future Trends in Gaming Technology
- 14:57 – The Importance of Education and Advocacy
- 18:01 – 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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- Tribal Gaming Industry Outlook 2026: Managing Margins in an Uncertain EconomyFor tribal gaming CFOs and casino management teams, understanding these trends now is critical to maintaining financial health and competitive positioning.
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- Don’t Miss Federal Cybersecurity Grant Funding Again: How Tribal Nations Can Prepare NowWe work with Tribal governments year-round to build the documentation, governance, and strategic plans that make grant applications successful.
