Founder Mode: Whatever it takes to get the job done

In this episode of the iGaming Leader Podcast, Leo sits down with Daniel Graetzer, the former CEO and Founder of MaximBet and Carousel Group.

Dan shares a raw, unfiltered account of the "tumbleweed effect" that comes with rapid scaling, eye-watering valuations, and the immense pressure of managing a high-profile brand in the US market.

The conversation explores the "staring into the abyss" reality of leadership, the critical distinction between Founder Mode and Manager Mode, and the high price of isolation.

Guest Bio

Daniel Graetzer has spent the past two decades working across the full company journey, from building and scaling businesses to transactions, restructurings and exits, across tech, AI, iGaming and digital media.

Over that time, he has led strategy, M&A, commercial growth and international expansion across Europe, the US, LatAm and Australia.

He has worked with founders, operators and investors through growth phases, complex deals and high-pressure strategic decisions.

Today, his focus is on advisory work, investing and supporting early-stage companies.

Key Topics Discussed

00:00 - Raising money is just the start, not the celebration

04:00 - Sustainable High Performance

07:30 - Burnout and the "too little, too late" reality check