Celebrating Rebecca McAdam Willetts: A Trailblazer in the Poker Industry
In an industry often dominated by male voices, Rebecca McAdam Willetts stands out as a luminary—a veteran poker reporter, presenter, and PR strategist whose passion for the game has reshaped how poker is perceived and promoted globally. Recently nominated for induction into the Women in Poker Hall of Fame, her career trajectory is a testament to her dedication and contributions to this vibrant community.
Reaction to the Nomination
When Rebecca received the news of her nomination, it took her by surprise. "I had no idea," she reflects, recalling the moment she first checked her phone to find congratulatory messages from colleagues and friends. Among them was poker journalist Lance Bradley, who expressed his delight and sent her the nomination link.
Despite being recognized, Rebecca has taken a modest approach to her achievements. "I’ve spent so long promoting the game and other brands that I’ve had to get comfortable in promoting myself," she remarked. The overwhelming support from her peers, such as Francine Watson, Alex O’Brien, and Jen Shahade, brought her joy, particularly sharing this occasion with someone she deeply admires, Shahade.
Career Reflections and Promoting Poker
Rebecca’s journey in the poker world began as a player, and her unique perspective has informed her approach to promoting the industry. "I’ve always approached everything through that lens," she notes. Her efforts have spanned various roles—from being a player to a journalist and ultimately an operator. Each phase granted her insights necessary to authentically promote poker while fostering community engagement.
As the driving force behind PokerStars’ PR strategy, McAdam Willetts engaged diverse audiences through broadcasting, digital platforms, and partnerships. She recalls her mission: "I always tried to do it in a way that engaged people in the community, its stories, and the strategic nature of the game instead of feeling like an advert."
Her dedication became particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. While many were retreating, she capitalized on the opportunity to enhance community support. Initiatives included hiring live event dealers for customer support and organizing the Stars Call for Action charity event that raised over $1 million for vital causes. "We had more than 90 celebrities playing poker together with their webcams on; it was madness!" she exclaimed.
Recognition and Contribution to the Community
Rebecca’s impact extends beyond personal accolades; she has become a powerful advocate for diversity, equality, and inclusion within the poker community. "Although it’s a passion, I’ve spent the bulk of the past 20 years doing things for the entire poker community," she emphasizes. Her multifaceted approach involved spearheading campaigns that created educational resources, professional opportunities, and innovations aimed at enhancing both women’s participation and the poker experience as a whole.
With initiatives like the Platinum Pass community giveaways, her strategies have consistently aimed to close the gap between poker and mainstream recognition. Through her public relations work, she championed transparent practices, ensuring that community voices were heard, particularly the perspectives of women in poker.
Reflecting on her unique contributions, she mentions, "I believe I was the first Irish reporter on international tours and the first Irish poker author."
What the Future Holds
As McAdam Willetts looks to the future, she remains fervently committed to the poker industry. "I throw myself 100% into anything I do," she asserts, admitting that while her passion for playing remains, her current role necessitates a full investment in promoting the game from behind the scenes.
Recently, she founded QueenBHive, a public relations and marketing company focused on supporting women-owned brands, particularly in male-dominated industries. Remarkably, she embarked on this journey while pregnant with her daughter, viewing her career as a springboard to empower underserved voices and initiatives.
"My career has shown me one thing: you don’t have to compromise your values and principles to make progress or be successful," she says resolutely. "You can bring people with you."
Conclusion
Rebecca McAdam Willetts exemplifies dedication, resilience, and passion within the poker industry. As a prospective inductee into the Women in Poker Hall of Fame, her legacy is not just her remarkable achievements but her unwavering commitment to fostering a more inclusive and vibrant poker community. For many, she serves as an inspiration—a reminder that one can reach great heights while empowering others along the way.
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