Stephen Matos, a person in long-term recovery, joins TJ on the Recovery Matters podcast to share his incredible journey since his last use of drugs and alcohol in 1986 and his last gambling experience in 1987. Stephen opens up about his upbringing in Hartford, Connecticut, where his father was deeply entrenched in gambling activities. He recounts how his own descent into alcohol, drugs, and gambling almost destroyed his life, leading to broken relationships and financial ruin. However, recovery came through Gamblers Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous, and intensive outpatient programs. Stephen highlights his role as a peer counselor in Connecticut's exemplary problem gambling treatment programs, underscoring the importance of lived experience in offering hope and support to others. His narrative also sheds light on the stigma surrounding gambling addiction and the critical need for comprehensive treatment and recovery resources.

00:00 Introduction and Host Backgrounds

00:36 Growing Up with a Gambling Father

04:51 Early Exposure to Alcohol and Drugs

06:59 The Impact of Gambling on Relationships

09:58 Descent into Addiction

16:15 Turning Point and Seeking Help

18:30 Recovery Journey and Support Systems

21:51 The Journey of Recovery

21:58 Managing Money and Responsibilities

22:24 The Role of AA and GA in Recovery

22:48 Strained Relationship with Father

23:24 Making Amends and Financial Accountability

23:52 Mending the Relationship with Father

24:27 A New Chapter: Becoming a Peer Counselor

25:06 Training and Embracing Multiple Pathways of Recovery

25:58 Working with Problem Gamblers and Their Families

27:58 Connecticut's Leading Gambling Treatment Programs

29:37 The Importance of Lived Experience in Recovery

33:03 Helpline and Support Resources

35:20 Advice for Newcomers in Recovery

36:48 Addressing Stigma and Shame in Gambling Addiction

41:05 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

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