The Hidden Addiction Podcast

In this episode we welcome Sarah Bryant, Finger Lakes Program Manager, and Isabel Barbosa, Special Population Coordinator. They join us to discuss the Voluntary Self-Exclusion program and supportive services. Questions that are discussed include:What is Voluntary Self-Exclusion (VSE)?What is the process to complete the VSE form?How can we connect with help to complete the VSE form?How does the VSE program work with casinos and benefit them?How does the VSE help make the casino environment better?How is an empathetic approach a beneficial strategy?Is there something we're doing with the casinos that can help them?Do we have a training that is specific to casino employees?Can someone refer themselves or someone else for VSE?Who do you contact to access this information and support? If you find yourself struggling with gambling harm, or if you suspect someone you know is facing such challenges, don't hesitate to seek help. For 24/7 support, call the NYS OASAS HOPEline at 1-877-846-7369 or text 467369. Or choose your county using our interactive map on our NYProblemGamblingHELP.org HOME PAGE to see the contact information for the Problem Gambling Resource Center (PGRC) in your region.

In this episode we welcome Deborah Lavaud and Jessica McCarthy, Team Leaders for the NYC and Central Problem Gambling Resource Centers. They join us to discuss the connection between socioeconomics and problem gambling. Questions that are discussed include:Why is this topic important?How is problem gambling viewed differently within different socioeconomic levels?Why do you believe socioeconomics create differences in view of problem gambling?How do socioeconomics affect problem gambling support efforts?What are some different impacts of socioeconomics being observed within different regions?What resources do you offer for support?What additional resources do you feel are needed?What are some upcoming trainings on the connection of problem gambling and socioeconomics?What recommendations do you have to support those who are struggling due to socioeconomic disparities?What can communities do? What is Voluntary Self-Exclusion (VSE)?What are the benefits of VSE?

In this episode we welcome Angela DiRosa and Shanley Olszowy, Program Managers for the Western Problem Gambling Resource Center. They join us to discuss screening for problem gambling as a special highlight during Problem Gambling Awareness Month, which takes place in March. Some specific topics that are covered include:Why is it important to understanding problem gambling?Why is problem Gambling considered a hidden addiction?How is problem gambling different from other addictions?What is screening for problem gambling and why is it important?What is the Lie-Bet screening tool?What is Problem Gambling Awareness Month?What can attendees look forward to during our 2025 Annual Conference, taking place on March 11-13, 2025 in Albany NY.

In this episode, we welcome Jeffrey Wierzbicki, the Team Leader from the Western Problem Gambling Resource Center, to discuss mobile sports betting (MSB). During this cover topics. Including:Define MSB.Understand the potential problems with MSB.Accessibility with mobile technology.MSB advertising effects on consumers.Preventative measures to avoid problem camping.

En este episodio de Adicciones Ocultas nos acompañan Martha Dolmo y Albert Aponte del Programa Construyendo Puentes. En este podcast hablamos sobre el juego entre la población hispana, cómo se percibe y normaliza el juego de azar. También se hablara de cómo y donde obtener ayuda si usted o un familiar tiene dificultades con los juegos de azar y las apuestas.

In this episode of The Hidden Addiction Podcast we bring to light the unique gambling challenges veterans and first responders face and how we can support them in their struggle to address gambling harm. We are joined by our guests Alyson Lemard, LCSW-R from the Brooklyn VA Medical Center and Jason M. Palamara, Director, Veteran & First Responder Engagement at Forge VFR. If you or someone you love is having difficulty with their gambling, know that help is available: For 24/7 support and referral to problem gambling community-based services, please contact The NYS OASAS HOPELINE, at 1-877-846-7369 or text 467369. To find your local Problem Gambling Resource Center visit NYProblemGamblingHELP.org Brooklyn VA: (718) 836-6600 Manhattan VA: (212) 686-7500 Jason's Contact – Forge Health Direct: (646) 777-2350 Office: (888) 224-7312 Suicide & Crisis Helpline - 988

Join us as we talk with Amy McBride, Assistant Director of Prevention and Special Programs as we discuss what voluntary self exclusion is. We will talk about the process in New York State as well as the new VSE program and how it can be a support to those who may be struggling with gambling harm. VSE Program Contact: VSESupport@NYCPG.org 518-903-021NYProblemGambling.org NYProblemGamblingHELP.org

On this episode we talk with Justina Ferrara, NYCPG Assistant Director, Bureau of Treatment and Recovery about Recovery Month! Listen to learn more about what NYCPG is doing for Recovery Month, as well as how you can get involved. For more information about recovery month email Justina at jferrara@nycpg.org or visit our website at NYProblemGambling.org To look for resources and support visit NYProblemGamblingHELP.org

This episode we talk with Brandy, Bureau Director of Prevention and Special Programs at NYCPG about our college aged students. With the increase in access and availability to gambling it's important to talk with our college aged students about the risks of gambling. NYCPG College Toolkitwww.NYProblemGamblingHELP.org

Join us as we talk with Carmine who is in recovery from problem gambling. We discuss his struggle with sports betting, his pathway to recovery, and his message to others. If you or a loved one is having trouble with their gambling visit NYProblemGamblingHELP.org

Join us as we talk with researcher Paulette O'Gilvie, Ph.D., M.B.A. about the social and economic impacts of casinos. Paulette has written several papers about the impact that casinos can have on communities and is passionate about the research surrounding this topic.If you or someone you love is having difficulty with their gambling please visit NYProblemGamblingHELP.org

Join us as we talk with Andrew O'Grady, CEO of Mental Health America Dutchess County to have a conversation about mental health and gambling. https://mhadutchess.org/https://nyproblemgamblinghelp.org/https://nyproblemgambling.org/

The Hidden Addiction Podcast is going statewide! As the New York Council on Problem Gambling grows, the podcast will be expanding to include new hosts, guests, and topics. Join us for season 3 as we introduce new members of the podcast team. Visit NYProblemGamblingHELP.org for more information.Additional Resources Shine A Light Shine a Light Facebook Page

In this episode we have Rachel Mai, who has been contracted through the New York Council on Problem Gambling to provide support to the Asian community in the New York City region. Rachel talks about the preceptions of gambling, the barriers to care, and what are the next steps toward addressing gambling addiction within this community. If you or a loved one is experiencing problems related to their gambling, please know help is available. We can be reached at Mid-HudsonPGRC@nyproblemgambling.org or 914-215-6440 and we will help you access resources.

In this episode, we have a guest host from New York City PGRC and Dr. Deborah Haskins. Together we talk about the systemic barriers affiliated with the world of problem gambling. Dr. Haskins breaks down the barriers in treatment, prevention, and organizationally. In order for us to move forward and be able to serve a variety of communities we have to check our own implicit biases. As Dr. Haskins put it, we need to step aside.For more information about Dr. Haskins and her advocacy work, please visit her website https://www.drdeborahhaskins.com/advocacy-1If you or a loved one is experiencing problems related to their gambling, please know help is available. We can be reached at Mid-HudsonPGRC@nyproblemgambling.org or 914-215-6440 and we will help you access resources.

We have been discussing gambling addiction for two seasons, and have had many guests describe the addiction for what it is and how it has affected the gambler, but we have not spoken about the affected other. In this episode, we speak to Kelly, a mother of 2 and a wife of a person struggling with gambling addiction. She talks about how the addiction affected her marriage, and her mental health, how they are breaking down stigmas and normalizing conversations within their family. Listen to her story, her recovery journey to find herself in the midst of someone else's storm. I. Butterfly Podcast- https://open.spotify.com/show/5QZDQVNDNDBjDilq6XyydV?si=45195627d5624f2fFor more information about can email Kelly at ibutterflypodcast@yahoo.comIf you or a loved one is experiencing problems related to their gambling, please know help is available. We can be reached at Mid-HudsonPGRC@nyproblemgambling.org or 914-215-6440 and we will help you access resources.

In this episode, of The Hidden Addiction Podcast, our host discusses how people use gambling as a way to escape the many challenges they may face in their lives daily. We discuss how to look for the signs and how to get help. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------If you or a loved one is experiencing problems related to their gambling, please know help is available. We can be reached at Mid-HudsonPGRC@nyproblemgambling.org or 914-215-6440 and we will help you access resources.

For Recovery Month, we wanted to highlight two amazing women, Dr. Sandra Adell and Karen Lee Reddick, both in recovery from gambling addiction, and are creating spaces for other black women to share their stories. We discuss on this episode why representation in treatment and support programs matters, the stigma about women in addictions, and provide hope for black women seeking to find help and share their story.ResourcesBlack Lesbian United- https://blacklesbiansunited.org/Gamblers in Recovery- https://gamblersinrecovery.com/Problem Gambling support group for Black women- please contact- klee126@gmail.comBook- Confessions of a Slot Machine Queen- $ 23.95 with $10 shipping. Please email Dr. Sandra Adell @ saadell@wisc.edu if interested.Dr. Adell is also working on a part 2 of her book series called And Then the Casinos Came: Narratives of Gambling and Loss. If any black women struggling with problem gambling or are in recovery and would like to share your story to be in the book please contact Dr. Adell saadell@wisc.edu.

More than ever we need to keep pushing the message of spreading awareness about problem gambling. It is imperative that we continue to advocate for a variety of treatment options to meet the need of our community. On this episode, we asked the staff at the New York Council on Problem Gambling what their favorite episode was. We also asked a few questions as to why talking about gambling addiction is important and what people can do to raise awareness.

In this episode, we are joined by guest host Venus Moore, a Team Leader from our Bronx PGRC, Adam Giancarlo, a clinician from Western, NY, and Robin Singh, Team Leader from our Queens PGRC. We are talking about the advantages and disadvantages of technology. How we are using technology to be more inclusive to broaden our reach for those who are struggling or affected by problem gambling.For more information about our subreddit page please visit- https://www.reddit.com/r/NYProblemGambling/____________________________________________________________________________If you or a loved is experiencing problems related to their gambling, please know help is available. We can be reached at Mid-HudsonPGRC@nyproblemgambling.org or 914-215-6440 and we will help you access resources.

On this episode, the Hidden Addiction Podcast hosts discuss change and transitions. As Colleen and Amanda experience their last days with the PGRC team before transitioning into new roles, the team took time to reflect on their experience on the podcast and progress made. Change can be difficult at times, but is necessary for growth. The hosts discuss impacts the podcast has had, their favorite episodes, and more. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------If you or a loved is experiencing problems related to their gambling, please know help is available. We can be reached at Mid-HudsonPGRC@nyproblemgambling.org or 914-215-6440 and we will help you access resources.

On this episode, we are joined by Tara McDonald who is working to make positive change in Ulster County, NY. Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities have historically faced inequities when it comes to receiving services and support. We chat with Tara about how providers and communities alike can work to address these disparities that exist to create healthier communities.For more information on the work being done, please contact us at Mid-HudsonPGRC@nyproblemgambling.org or 914-215-6440------------------------------------------------------------------------------------If you or a loved is experiencing problems related to their gambling, please know help is available. We can be reached at Mid-HudsonPGRC@nyproblemgambling.org or 914-215-6440 and we will help you access resources.

For this episode, we were joined by John S. from the Testimony House. John discusses help, hope, and finding recovery through his faith. Recovery comes in many forms and we wanted to discuss the topic of faith and spirituality, and how it can be an avenue for those impacted by gambling addiction. For more information on John, please visit his site: https://testimonyhouse.org/If you or someone you know is experiencing problems related to their gambling, or is looking for help to stop gambling, reach out and we can help you navigate the resources available near you. (914) 215-6440 or Mid-HudsonPGRC@NYProblemGambling.org

For Women's History Month, we wanted to highlight two amazing women who are reclaiming their voices. Christina and Terra are both in recovery from gambling addiction, as well as advocates creating safe spaces for women in recovery to also share their story and find support. We discuss on this episode why representation in treatment matters, stigma about women in addictions, and effects on mental health.Links to Terra and Christina's podcasts:Terra's Podcast: Ambitious Addicts https://apple.co/3NqTAaeTerra's website https://terra.getgamblinghelp.org/ Christina's Podcast: The Broke Girls Society https://apple.co/36GQtKr Christina's Vodcast: The Bet Free Life https://bit.ly/36i7NphIf you or someone you know is experiencing gambling problems or is looking to stop gambling, reach out and we will help you navigate the resources available. (914-215-6440)

For the month of February, we are hosting a mini-series to gear up for Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) in March. For the fourth episode of the series, we are joined by Bobbie the Awesome, creator for the 3-21 No Kiddin' podcast. Bobbie opens up about her recovery journey, discusses that recovery can come from multiple pathways, and provides some beautiful insight to what recovery can look like.If you or someone you know if having trouble with their gambling habit, please give us a call and we can get you connected to help! (914) 215-6440In this episode, we mentioned a few things we wanted to note here:Link to Bobbie's website to check out more from her: 3-21 No Kiddin'NY Council on Problem Gambling Annual Conference 3/9-3/10 2022

For the month of February, we are hosting a mini-series to gear up for Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) in March. For the third episode of the series, we are joined by Mara Mendicino, the Gambling Specialist Coordinator for Lexington Center for Recovery. We discuss what someone can expect when attending an outpatient program for gambling addiction, the services provided, and additional care offered.If you or someone you know if having trouble with their gambling habit, please give us a call and we can get you connected to help! (914) 215-6440In this episode, we mentioned a few things we wanted to note here:Open Gamblers Anonymous Meeting held March 6, 2022.NY Council on Problem Gambling Annual Conference 3/9-3/10 2022Click here to take our online e-screening tool.

For the month of February, we are hosting a miniseries to gear up for Problem Gambling Awareness Month (PGAM) in March. Our second episode of the series focuses on problem gambling screenings. We are joined by Rachel Lauria, the Bureau Director for Treatment and Recovery for the NY Council on Problem Gambling. On this episode, we discuss different screening tools, the importance and impact, and who should be screening for problem gambling. We do also mention Gambling Disorder Screening Day which is a nationwide event we hope you can join us in!E-screener tool available free to useScreening Day Toolkit 3/8More information on the NYCPG Annual Conference

For the month of February, we are hosting a mini series to gear up for Problem Gambling Awareness Month in March. Our first episode focuses on Preventing Underage Gambling and we are joined by Stelianos Canallatos, the Prevention Specialist for the NY Council on Problem Gambling. We discuss prevention of underage gambling, educating communities, and implementing policies throughout the state. NYCPG has released a Capacity Building Grant to further the prevention efforts. Click here for more information.To subscribe for email alerts from NYCPG, click hereUnderage gambling prevention and education websiteMore information on the NYCPG Annual Conference

Mobile Sports Betting (MSB) apps and sites were launched in New York State January 2022. To kick off season 2, we are joined again by Jim Maney, Executive Director of the NY Council on Problem Gambling (NYCPG), to discuss what the landscape looks like for NYers. There are concerns because this expansion dramatically increases access and availability to gambling opportunities. Neighboring states who previously launched MSB apps saw increases in rates of problem gambling. NYCPG is working to prepare partners, providers, and communities across the state to advocate for supports and services.

For our season finale, we are joined by Scott, the New York Council on Problem Gambling's first ever Peer Recovery Support Advocate. Scott openly and honestly shares his story about his addiction to gambling, consequences he faced, and his journey to recovery. He brings authenticity and genuine care and concern to his work. It is our hope that his powerful words let others know they are not alone and help is available.For anyone seeking resources, please know help is available.NYS Problem Gambling Resource Centers: https://nyproblemgamblinghelp.org/US National Problem Gambling 24/7 Helpline: 1-800-522-4700Information and Resources: https://nyproblemgambling.org/resources/

As we approach the holiday season, we are aware there are an abundance of triggers someone may experience when working in their recovery from gambling addiction. We are joined by Scott Meyer, NYCPG's Certified Peer Recovery Advocate, to discuss possible triggers and ways to cope. Resources mentioned in this episode include the Gambler's Anonymous (GA) Hotline 1-855-222-5542 and the New York State HOPEline 1-877-846-7369 if you are seeking immediate support. If you would like to be connected to Scott for peer support as we work to get you connected to treatment options, please call us at the Mid-Hudson PGRC at 914-215-6440. We are here to help!

In this months episode, David Yeager, host of the Fall In: The Problem Gambling Podcast for Military, and Jonathan Crandell, Coordinator for the New York Council on Problem Gambling Veteran Outreach, join the show to talk about problem gambling in the military and veterans. We talked about Dave's experience as a veteran in recovery and the work that both he and Jonathan are doing to raise awareness and get help for those who serve our country. If you or someone you know is experiencing problem gambling, know help is available. The NY Council on Problem Gambling has Resource Centers across the state. https://nyproblemgamblinghelp.org/Fall In: The Problem Gambling Podcast for Military Service Members and Veterans | Email: FallInPodcast@gmail.com | https://fallin.libsyn.com/ |

Episode 8 of the Hidden Addiction Podcast focuses on the Close Connections between Domestic Violence and Problem Gambling. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and we wanted to start the conversation about the ways these two issues can overlap, examples of situations, and its presence in entertainment and media. Materials are available at request reviewing these close connections.If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or intimate partner violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE(7233)The Mid-Hudson PGRC helpline is 914-215-6440The Western PGRC helpline is 716-833-4274https://nyproblemgamblinghelp.org/

On this episode, we welcome two special guests who share their journey of recovery from problem gambling in honor of Recovery Month. Listen as they share how their journey started, how to remain in recovery, what they are grateful for, and more.If you or someone you know struggles with a gambling addiction or is affected by it please reach out to us. Call or text us at 914-215-6440 for help or email us at Mid-HudsonPGRC@nyproblemgambling.org

On this episode, we are joined by one of our very own PGRC Clinical Network Clinicians - JR Lombardo. We wanted to review what the process is like for someone seeking to get connected to care, how some of those discussions go, and some of the resources we have available.

Welcome to our fifth episode of The Hidden Addiction Podcast. Today the Mid-Hudson Problem Gambling Resource Center staff shares their stories of how they journeyed into working with the New York Council on Problem Gambling. Listen to our fun and heart-felt stories as to why we feel this addiction is important and why we continue to work hard to bring forth the message of connecting people to care.You can also call or text us at 914-215-6440 for help or information.Take a listen, share the link, and/or email us your comments. We would love to hear from you!If you would like to submit a topic or question, please contact us at Mid-HudsonPGRC@NYProblemGambling.org

In this episode, we called in two important guests, Ashely Owen Team Leader for Staten Island and Craig Johnson a clinician in our Finger Lakes region. Listen as our guest share their knowledge about working with the LGBTQIA+ community and how gambling addiction has affected the community.If you or someone you know struggles with a gambling addiction or is affected by it please reach out to us. Call or text us at 914-215-6440 for help.

If you ever wanted to learn the ins and outs of Gamblers Anonymous (GA), this is your chance. Our special guest, Joe B is a facilitator of GA in New York, he will discuss the history of GA and how it has supported those struggling with problem gambling to get help and stay in recovery. He also describes what a typical meeting is like, its connections with Gam-Anon (support for loved ones affected by the gambling addiction), how we, as a community of support programs, need to come together to continue holding up problem gamblers and their families, and lastly, he talks in-depth about the upcoming Open meeting on June 13th @ 6 pm.Link to the meeting: https://events.newyorkga.com/If you or anyone is interested in more information about GA please contact the National Hotline at 1-855-222-5542You can also call us at the Mid-Hudson Problem Gambling Resource Center information or help at 914-215-6440

In episode two we discuss the legalization of online sports betting within New York State with Jim Maney, the Executive Director of the New York Council on Problem Gambling. We talk about how this affects New York State residents and those struggling with gambling addiction.If you have any questions about the podcast or would like to learn about a specific topic email us at Mid-HudsonPGRC@nyproblemgambling.org.If you or a loved one is struggling with gambling addiction please give us a call at 914-215-6440 to be connected to services.

In episode one, we describe who we are as the Mid-Hudson Problem Gambling Resource Center. We define gambling and problem gambling, we discuss the warning signs and how it impacts the individual, their loved ones, and society. Lastly, we provide resources on how to receive help.