My name is Nancy Wood, and if you had told me ten years ago that I’d be a casino blogger living in Canada, I might have laughed. Life has a funny way of leading you down unexpected paths, and mine certainly took some interesting turns to get me where I am today.
I grew up in a small town in Ontario, a place where everyone knew everyone, and gambling wasn’t exactly on the radar. My parents were hardworking folks—my dad was a mechanic, and my mom stayed home with my two brothers and me. Life was simple, and I never imagined living anywhere else. I always had a love for writing, though. I used to keep journals, scribble short stories, and dream about becoming a journalist one day.
After high school, I went to university in Toronto to study communications. The big city was overwhelming at first, but I quickly fell in love with its energy. Toronto introduced me to so many new experiences, but it was also where I first discovered casinos. One weekend, some friends suggested we check out a casino downtown, just for fun. I was hesitant at first, but that night changed everything for me. I was fascinated by the atmosphere—the bright lights, the buzz of excitement, the thrill of winning, and, yes, even the heartbreak of losing.
It wasn’t the gambling itself that hooked me, but rather the stories behind it—the strategy involved in games like blackjack or poker, the luck factor in slots, and the people who were drawn to this world. I realized there was so much more to casinos than just placing bets. I began researching the games, learning the odds, and diving into the history of gambling in Canada and beyond.
After graduating, I took a job at a PR firm, but the world of casinos always lingered in the back of my mind. I’d visit casinos on weekends and eventually started writing about my experiences. At first, it was just for myself—little reflections on the strategies I’d learned or the quirky characters I’d meet. But then something clicked. Why not combine my love for writing with this new interest? I decided to start a blog.
“Jackpot Empire” was born one cold winter afternoon while I sat in my tiny apartment, wondering what direction my life was taking. At first, I wrote about local casinos in Ontario—my thoughts on different games, how I tried to beat the house, and tips for beginners. I wasn’t sure if anyone would read it, but to my surprise, people did! Slowly, my blog gained traction. I started to get comments and emails from readers, asking for advice on where to play, what games to try, and even how to handle losses. I realized there was a whole community of people who were just as fascinated by this world as I was.
Over time, I expanded my blog to cover online casinos as well. The gambling landscape in Canada was evolving, and I wanted to be at the forefront. I wrote reviews of online platforms, shared insights on bonuses, and provided tips for playing responsibly. It wasn’t just about winning money anymore; it was about enjoying the experience, learning the games, and making smart choices.
As my blog grew, so did my opportunities. I started attending casino events, both online and in person, interviewing industry professionals, and even getting invited to review new casino launches across Canada. One of my proudest moments was when I was invited to speak at a gaming conference in Vancouver. Standing in front of a room full of people, sharing my journey from casual casino-goer to full-time blogger, I realized how far I’d come.
Blogging about casinos isn’t just about the games for me. It’s about the lifestyle, the stories, and the people I meet along the way. I’ve written about everything from my top ten favorite Canadian casinos to the ins and outs of live dealer games. My articles also touch on the importance of responsible gaming because I’ve seen firsthand how gambling can affect people if they don’t approach it with caution.
Living in Canada, I feel fortunate to be part of a country where gambling is regulated, and players are protected. The online casino scene here is booming, and I love being able to guide my readers through it. I’ve also been able to connect with other bloggers and influencers in the gaming world, building a network of people who share my passion.
Today, I live in a cozy apartment in Vancouver, a city that I’ve come to love for its balance of nature and urban life. I spend my days researching, writing, and, of course, playing. I’m not a high roller by any means, but I enjoy the occasional game of poker or a spin on the slots. More than anything, I love the thrill of uncovering a new casino or strategy to share with my readers.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned throughout my journey, it’s that life is a gamble. You never know where a seemingly small decision—like walking into a casino for the first time—might lead you. I took a chance on my blog, and it turned into a career I couldn’t have imagined. Now, I get to do what I love every day, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
So, that’s me—Nancy Wood, casino blogger, writer, and lifelong learner. I don’t know where this path will take me next, but I’m excited for the ride.
