AffPapa is pleased to announce the release of Episode 2 of “Affiliates vs Operators,” its iGaming conversation series that brings affiliates and operators together for open and honest discussions.
The series provides a platform where both sides can discuss partnership expectations and the realities of daily operations in the iGaming industry. Episode 1, featuring Nikoleta Hristova and Filippo Anzalone, kicked off the series exploring topics such as communication in partnerships, warning signs, common misconceptions, work-life balance, and more.
Episode 2: New Guests, New Perspectives
Episode 2 welcomes Nataliia Lavruk from Melbet and Martins Lasmanis from Media 24. Throughout the episode, they discuss affiliate-operator dynamics, addressing existing challenges, potential opportunities, and essentials for effective collaboration.
Anahit Hovhannisyan, Head of Marketing at AffPapa and series host, said:
“I loved hearing our guests speak openly; the conversation naturally built on what we started in the premiere episode. Nataliia and Martins bring genuinely interesting perspectives. I’m sure our viewers will gain many practical insights they can apply in their day-to-day work.”
The episode examines how affiliates and operators really work together, covering listing fees, contract terms, traffic quality, and trust. Nataliia and Martins share common pain points, including inflated pricing and unclear reporting, and what it takes to build long-term partnerships.
Martins Lasmanis, Co-Founder and CEO of Media 24, commented:
“Participating in this debate was a great opportunity to tackle challenging topics in affiliate marketing. From listing fees to terms, mutual expectations, and traffic quality. These conversations aren’t always comfortable, but they are necessary to build a more transparent industry. Strong partnerships require clarity and open dialogue.
A big thank you to Nataliia Lavruk for representing the operator perspective and keeping the discussion professional and constructive.”
The conversation also touches on SEO trends, why it’s becoming harder for new affiliates to enter the market, and what both affiliates and operators should consider when choosing partners.
Nataliia Lavruk, Head of Acquisition at Melbet, shared:
“Representing the operator side in ‘Affiliates vs Operators’ was both fun and very real. We talk a lot about ‘partnership,’ but sometimes it feels like a quiet cold war.
We didn’t sugarcoat anything: manipulation, short-term thinking, and the trust gap that slows growth. At the same time, both sides need to take responsibility from day one: protect their interests, set clear terms, and conduct proper due diligence.
Sustainable growth doesn’t come from trying to outplay each other, it comes from accountability early on and building long-term relationships.”
AffPapa invites everyone to watch and share Episode 2 of “Affiliates vs Operators” and stay tuned for future episodes featuring new voices joining the conversation.
About “Affiliates vs Operators”
AffPapa’s “Affiliates vs Operators” is an iGaming conversation series designed to bridge the gap between affiliates and operators. Each episode brings together one affiliate, one operator, and a host to explore real challenges, priorities, and strategies for partnership management.
The series avoids panels, filters, or scripted answers. Its aim is to create a space for honest dialogue where both sides can better understand each other and align priorities. Through open conversations about expectations and common misconceptions, “Affiliates vs Operators” provides viewers with industry insights and practical advice to build stronger, more effective partnerships, improving the iGaming ecosystem by helping the community operate smarter, together.
