If you don’t adapt, you die. The Real Value of Leadership with Vladimir Malakchi

In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo Judkins sits down with Vladimir Malakchi, investor, advisor, former CCO of Evoplay and CEO of Xanada Investments.

Vladimir shares how adaptability, integrity, and fearless decision-making shaped his journey from government employee to multi-industry executive and respected leader in iGaming.

The conversation explores personal resilience, navigating uncertainty, leading with impact, and the mindset shifts that separate founders who thrive from those who stall — offering real, raw advice for executives, founders, and future leaders.

Guest Bio

Vladimir Malakchi is a strategic investor and business scaling expert with 10 years of experience. Over the past 5 years, he has mentored iGaming companies, guiding them to commercial success and top industry rankings.

Recognized as Speaker of the Year and Influencer of the Year, Vladimir is among LinkedIn's top voices in the industry. He has led companies to over 300 awards and nominations.

A respected judge and speaker at global gaming conferences, Vladimir launched Xanada Investments — an investment fund that supports promising iGaming projects, focusing on business scaling through financial backing and a community-driven approach for mutual success.

Key Topics Discussed

00:00 – Introduction

03:00 – Betrayed by a friend helped by a stranger

08:00 – Couldn’t go back and face my mother

10:50 – Why adaptability is the most critical skill for founders

11:50 – Career pivots, mindset shifts, and making your own luck
17:00 – You need to start moving, moving, moving.
24:11 – Fear, risk, and the dangers of the comfort zone
30:50 – The mindset difference between serial founders and first-time entrepreneurs
34:55 – Perfectionism vs. speed: the silent killer of startups
38:50 – What I want to be remembered for

Memorable Quotes

"If you’re the smartest guy in the room, it’s time to change rooms."
"Comfort is the most dangerous place to live. You’ll look back and realise you’ve lost 20 years."
"People say yes because they don’t want to hurt your feelings. But if they won’t pay for your product, you’ve got nothing."
"Founders don’t die from failure — they die from perfectionism and inaction."
"I want to be remembered for helping people grow — not just in business, but in life."

Important Links

Connect with Vladimir Malakchi:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/vmalakchi/
https://xanada.fund

https://next.io/news/promoted/inside-the-xanada-pitch-contest-vladimir-malakchi-how-to-prepare-effectively/

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