Her Play

Forget idealized strategies and theoretical lessons; this is a business memoir grounded in real experiences. It tells the story of a woman who started as a casino dealer and sold her startup in one of the industry's swiftest exits. Karolina Pelc wasn't destined for boardrooms from the start. Her journey began amidst the hustle and bustle of casino life in post-communist Poland and led her through various countries and sectors in gaming, entertainment, and technology. Ultimately, she founded a disruptive startup that was sold to FanDuel, the U.S.'s top gaming brand, in less than three years. However, "Her Play: Make Your Own Luck" isn't just a standard startup guide.This candid leadership memoir immerses readers in the truths of career unpredictability, power dynamics, and bold personal decisions that shaped Karolina's nontraditional path. Through gritty experiences and deeply personal challenges, she reveals the pressures of thriving in a predominantly male industry. Long before establishing and selling her company, she navigated a landscape filled with relentless pressure and scrutiny.Whether on the visible casino floors or within the intricate dynamics of global business, her career path deviated from the norm. Hidden alongside her professional journey were private struggles—coping with doubt after setbacks, enduring personal heartbreak, and maintaining ambition. The memoir reflects on the assumptions she challenged and the risks she embraced.From sailing on cruise ships to pioneering in online gaming and tech, "Her Play" exposes the moments that shaped her leadership mindset. More than a list of professional achievements, it delves into the complexities of risk-taking, confidence, and decision-making under pressure. By sharing Karolina Pelc's mindset framework, the book provides insights into reframing setbacks and creating opportunities well before they materialize.This memoir is a testament to trusting instincts, redefining rules on one's terms, and mastering the art of engineered serendipity—creating your own luck through daring choices. It’s perfect for those carving ambitious career paths without clear maps, risking without guarantees or applause, and juggling leadership, identity, and stress, all while yearning for insights drawn from genuine experiences, not formulaic instructions.