This piece was originally published in Gutshot Magazine’s June 2024 print edition.
Calling Station, an online Poker platform established in March 2018, has a determined group of women leading the charge to secure a share of the industry in the highly competitive market. Launched officially in May 2018 on a shoestring budget, the path to early growth was paved with extensive brainstorming sessions to identify strategies to stand out and draw in players.
The breakthrough came with two innovative concepts pioneered by Calling Station: instant cashouts and cash table promotions. In an era where poker rooms adhered to a two-day-a-week cashout policy, Calling Station boldly introduced instant cashouts, setting a new standard in the industry. This pioneering move proved immensely successful, eventually prompting other major players to follow suit in the subsequent months.
In the poker universe, where the clinking of chips and the shuffling of cards create a rhythm of strategy and chance, one might not immediately envision women in the lead. However, as society progresses and barriers are broken, women are increasingly stepping into prominent roles within the poker industry, including founding and managing poker companies.
Poker has been perceived as a male-dominated arena, often associated with smoky backrooms and a macho atmosphere. Yet, as the game has gained mainstream acceptance and accessibility. The game’s demographics have diversified. Women, once relegated to the sidelines or underestimated at the table, are now asserting their presence and prowess in the game.
The rise of women in poker is not just a testament to individual achievement but also to the evolving dynamics of gender equality in society. As barriers continue to be broken and opportunities are more accessible, women are further asserting themselves in traditionally male-dominated domains.
The endeavour of women breaking into a widely male-dominated field comes with its own perils. From facing inappropriate behaviour in customer support to encountering unsolicited messages and calls laden with sexual undertones across marketing and operations, the resilience shown in managing such situations daily is commendable.
ALSO READ: OneVerse Acquires Gaming Companies Calling Station
At Calling Station, a team of nine women oversees end-to-end operations. Renowned for their adeptness in multitasking, they diligently ensure the seamless operation of the poker platform for their players.
From the renowned Molly Bloom, author of the riveting memoir Molly’s Game, detailing her experiences hosting an underground high-stakes poker game frequented by Hollywood elites, politicians, and sports stars, to trailblazers like Kara Scott and Maria Ho, women are at the forefront of the poker scene, leading with distinction.
Even the current regulatory challenges posed by the new GST rule, the team is steadfastly focused on maintaining the brand they’ve diligently nurtured over the past six years.
In conclusion, the emergence of women in leadership roles within the poker industry signifies a significant shift. Through their ingenuity and passion for the game, women are not only challenging stereotypes but also reshaping the culture and landscape of poker in the country.
Gutshot Magazine is India’s leading real money gaming magazine that covers news, updates, previews, highlights, features and much more across verticals like poker, rummy, and fantasy sports. Our rich history that has spanned over a decade now, Gutshot Magazine has always tied up with events and tournaments that have helped push the awareness of skill gaming in the country. If you are looking for the latest updates across real money gaming, then you have arrived at the perfect destination.
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