While slot machines at that time were illegal, they were 'tolerated' by local authorities. Don got out of school since he was making three times more than the principal. The young businessman was making $500 a week when his school principal gave him an ultimatum: get out of the slot business or get out of school. The profits he earned, he shared with pub owners. With his money he earned from trapping mink and muskrat, he bought slot machines from a mail-order catalog and installed them in local pubs.

He first found his gambling inspiration while growing up near Owatonna, Minnesota.

Don Laughlin’s affinity for gaming began when he was a child and ever since, he has lived a life destined for success.