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The Bet

Author: Problem Gambling Foundation

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The Bet is back with powerful personal stories from more amazing Kiwis who have successfully overcome serious gambling addictions.

In our new 2026 episodes, four survivors of gambling harm tell the unvarnished truth about how although their lives got derailed by dopamine hits and the promise of riches, they have moved beyond their addictions – or the impact of other peoples' gambling addictions.

And in a special long-form interview, a researcher specialising in gambling harm explains the neuroscience, social norms and profound cynicism that keeps the gambling industry rolling on, despite the enormous harms. She also talks about constructive ways people can overcome this.


Produced for the Problem Gambling Foundation by Te Pūrongo Productions. If you or anyone you know needs help with gambling harm please visit www.pgf.nz for free advice, tools and counselling.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

12 Episodes
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Episode 9: Simone

Episode 9: Simone

2026-09-1301:04:47

In a special interview with The Bet’s producers, associate professor of psychology and neuroscience Dr Simone Rodda explains why humans get such a kick out of gambling, why the potential for harm is so great, and what gamblers and their loved ones can do about it.Topics covered include ..* What is “rapid play” and why is it so addictive?* Why do casinos hide their clocks?* Is there such a thing as “safe” gambling?* How to spot gambling triggers and relapse risks* Why self-exclusion online and offline can be the first step towards recovery.* Practical strategies for families of gamblers.Warning: These podcast episodes contain content related to challenging topics such as addiction, depression and suicide. Please listen with care.If you or anyone you know needs help with gambling addiction, get in touch with the Problem Gambling Foundation at www.pgf.nz.We provide free, confidential advice, tools and counselling. Whether it be from your own gambling or if you are affected by someone else's gambling, we are here to help.Phone 0800 664 262Email [email protected] 5819Visit www.pgf.nzLinktree https://linktr.ee/pgfservices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 8: Laura

Episode 8: Laura

2026-09-1340:48

Gambling can mess up your life – but what’s it like for a gambler’s partner? When Laura’s* mother confronts her over an empty bank account, she assumes her daughter has a secret gambling addiction. The reality is different: Laura’s boyfriend has been using her ID, her credit card and her identity to gamble away her university savings. After suffering in silence for a long time she finally finds the courage to speak up and move through the trauma of her experience as an affected other. Laura's life is now back on track to taking her where she always wanted to go.(* “Laura” is a pseudonym).Warning: These podcast episodes contain content related to challenging topics such as addiction, depression and suicide. Please listen with care.If you or anyone you know needs help with gambling addiction, get in touch with the Problem Gambling Foundation at www.pgf.nz.We provide free, confidential advice, tools and counselling. Whether it be from your own gambling or if you are affected by someone else's gambling, we are here to help.Phone 0800 664 262Email [email protected] 5819Visit www.pgf.nzLinktree https://linktr.ee/pgfservices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 7: Phil

Episode 7: Phil

2026-09-1334:06

Gambling isn’t really about the money. Just ask Phil. Even when his travel business became successful, his compulsive gambling meant he never held on to his profits for long. But after decades of using pokies and casino bets to stave off loneliness, thanks to a family intervention Phil got the help he needed at PGF to make real, positive and long term change.Warning: These podcast episodes contain content related to challenging topics such as addiction, depression and suicide. Please listen with care.If you or anyone you know needs help with gambling addiction, get in touch with the Problem Gambling Foundation at www.pgf.nz.We provide free, confidential advice, tools and counselling. Whether it be from your own gambling or if you are affected by someone else's gambling, we are here to help.Phone 0800 664 262Email [email protected] 5819Visit www.pgf.nzLinktree https://linktr.ee/pgfservices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 6: Johnathan

Episode 6: Johnathan

2026-09-1336:36

At 18, Johnathan panics during a police pursuit, speeding away and leaving his friends and girlfriend stranded on the roadside. Years later, he recognises that same reckless impulse in his sports betting, where he once lost a $20,000 single bet. For a time he can hide his losses – including thousands from a family inheritance – but eventually they catch up with him. Hear how he made some incredible choices to deal with his addiction and completely turn his life around.Warning: These podcast episodes contain content related to challenging topics such as addiction, depression and suicide. Please listen with care.If you or anyone you know needs help with gambling addiction, get in touch with the Problem Gambling Foundation at www.pgf.nz.We provide free, confidential advice, tools and counselling. Whether it be from your own gambling or if you are affected by someone else's gambling, we are here to help.Phone 0800 664 262Email [email protected] 5819Visit www.pgf.nzLinktree https://linktr.ee/pgfservices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episode 5: David

Episode 5: David

2026-09-1339:41

After a childhood marred by bullying and other traumatic experiences, David* seeks the comfort and oblivion of alcohol and gambling. Decades of chaos follow, including homelessness, repeated rehabs and brushes with the law. But after finding the right counsellor at PGF and gaining insight into the effects of complex childhood trauma, a new chapter begins. David finally discovers a pathway to rebuild his life and his sense of worth – without gambling. This is a truly inspirational story of change.(* “David” is a pseudonym.)Warning: These podcast episodes contain content related to challenging topics such as addiction, depression and suicide. Please listen with care.If you or anyone you know needs help with gambling addiction, get in touch with the Problem Gambling Foundation at www.pgf.nz.We provide free, confidential advice, tools and counselling. Whether it be from your own gambling or if you are affected by someone else's gambling, we are here to help.Phone 0800 664 262Email [email protected] 5819Visit www.pgf.nzLinktree https://linktr.ee/pgfservices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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