I'm a compulsive person. This can be a great thing when applied properly, but can also create huge problems if I'm not careful. In this episode, I discuss other areas that I've been compulsive in and the pros and cons of my compulsive behavior.

BOOKS MENTIONED:

The One Thing by Gary Keller & Jay Papasan

Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown

As you start to accumulate clean time after quitting gambling, certain situations or environments can cause problems. In this episode, I cover the four pitfalls I've experienced and that I see others experience as we are recovering from gambling addiction.

When I first tried to quit gambling, I took the willpower approach. I just wasn't going to gamble again. Aside from making that declaration, I did nothing else to curb my addiction. It didn't work. Now, I'm much more aware of the role willpower should play in my recovery as well as how to ensure my willpower tank is always full.

In this episode, Michelle shares the progression of her gambling disorder. We discuss how the presence of a new local casino and their rewards program increased the frequency and amounts of her gambling. We also dive into women and gambling as well as many other topics.

FIND MICHELLE ONLINE:

You can find Michelle on Twitter (@WellPlayedWear) and follow her personal blog at: http://michelleelana.com/

Check out The Daily Sober on Twitter (@TheDailySober) or at her website: http://dailysober.com/

IN THE ROOMS:

https://www.intherooms.com/

Coming to grips with the financial fallout of a gambling problem can be extremely difficult. It's really easy to focus on the money lost. In this episode, I share a thought process that is helping me turn a negative into a positive.

I can't stand the "gambling prevention" campaigns that highlight "Responsible Gambling" as the solution to avoiding the pitfalls of gambling. In this episode, I discuss why I think these ads create more harm than good.

I created this episode to act as a bridge between problem gamblers and their loved ones. Finding the strength to come clean about a gambling addiction is extremely difficult. Personally, I was unable to do so. It took getting caught in order for me to have this tough conversation.

It's my hope that this episode can provide insight into the addiction and will lead to positive dialog and action to help compulsive gamblers and their families start the path towards recovery.

In this episode, one of my close friends joins the podcast to share his story. Rob and I met 2.5 years ago at a Gamblers Anonymous meeting and have become close friends. Hearing Rob give therapy is often like looking in a mirror as we played the same game and have so many shared experiences. I was excited when Rob offered to share his story and I couldn't think of a better first guest!

When I was gambling, I always thought the next time would be different. I'd quit when I was ahead and would be on the path towards getting out of debt and on with my life. It didn't work and in this episode I outline why it didn't and also touch on the dangers of using similar messaging in gambling prevention campaigns.

Going to your first Gamblers Anonymous meeting is like the first day at school or a new job. You aren't sure what to expect, so there is a natural and normal sense of anxiety. In this episode, I'll outline what it's like to attend a meeting to help reduce your fears.