In the latest episode of the SiGMA Poker Face podcast, presented by EvenBet Gaming, poker advocate and communications leader Rebecca McAdam Willetts, Founder of QueenBHive, sat down with Ivonne Montealegre, SiGMA Poker Tour manager, to reflect on her two decade journey in the poker industry. From her humble beginnings in home games to her recent induction into the Women in Poker Hall of Fame, McAdam Willetts has been instrumental in transforming poker’s reputation and fighting for greater inclusivity.
From home games to industry leadership
Rebecca’s passion for poker began at home. “It was my brother-in-law who brought the idea of home games to the house, and I just absolutely fell in love with it,” she recalled. By the time she was 18, McAdam Willetts was already exploring private clubs to hone her skills.
Her career rapidly evolved from player to journalist, eventually leading communications and partnerships for major operators, including Flutter International. Now, as the founder of QueenBHive, her own PR and communications agency, she continues to champion change. “I’m out on my own in the big brave world,” she emphasised.
Changing the game for women
A trailblazer for women in poker, McAdam Willetts has long been determined to challenge outdated stereotypes. “When I came into the industry, there was no one like me around me,” she explained. “Now, there are plenty like me, and that’s a big change but it’s been slow.”
One of her proudest achievements was reshaping how women are represented in poker marketing. “We’re there to compete, we’re not there to be looked at,” she stressed. From eliminating so-called trophy girls at live events to promoting intelligent, respectful portrayals of female players, her influence is undeniable.
McAdam Willetts also led initiatives during the pandemic to support the community, including celebrity charity tournaments that raised over $1 million. “I always felt part of the community. Player, journalist, then PR and I wanted anything we did to be free, play money, or charity related.”
Poker lessons that translate to life
Poker has taught McAdam Willetts invaluable life lessons about resilience, decision making and confidence. She shared a powerful story of standing her ground in a challenging tournament, ultimately defeating a hostile opponent, “There comes a point where no one else can make the decision for you… you just have to go and believe in yourself.” Those lessons carry over into QueenBHive’s boot camps, designed to help women in male-dominated industries build confidence, advocate for themselves and lead with purpose.
Breaking barriers and building communities
For McAdam Willetts, success means lifting others up. “Instead of fear over competition, I wanted it to be about collaboration,” she said, explaining the philosophy behind QueenBHive’s network of talent and advocates.
With her recent induction into the Women in Poker Hall of Fame, McAdam Willetts reflects on her journey with humility and ambition for more. “I was responsible for some great things, and I’m going to do some more,” she declared.
Join industry leaders, advocates and changemakers at the upcoming SiGMA EuroMed summit in Malta this September 03-06 . Explore how poker’s lessons in strategy, risk-taking and resilience can empower your business and help build inclusive, thriving communities. Don’t miss your opportunity to learn, connect and drive change.
