Inside the Mind of a Compulsive Gambler with Louis Ruggiero | The Hopeaholics Podcast

In this gripping episode of The Hopeaholics Podcast, Louis Ruggiero lays everything on the table as he shares his unbelievable journey through addiction, gambling, destruction, and redemption. From the moment he first sat at a blackjack table at just 15 years old and turned $200 into $9,000, Louis became hooked on the rush—a rush that would ultimately cost him over $10.2 million, countless relationships, and nearly his life. He opens up about his battles with opioids, alcohol, and gambling, his public downfall after a headline-making arrest in New York City, and the years of chaos that followed as he spiraled deeper into addiction while trying to hold onto a facade of success. Louis paints a vivid picture of the highs of Vegas suites, private jets, and massive wins, followed by the devastating lows of broken promises, debt, and suicidal thoughts. Yet through all the pain, he found redemption in recovery—turning to Gamblers Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous, and the 12-step program to rebuild not only his sobriety but his sense of purpose. Now, nearly a year sober from gambling and years clean from drugs and alcohol, Louis is using his platform and his podcast Nothing’s Off the Table to shine a light on the realities of addiction and the hope found in recovery. His story is brutally honest, deeply human, and serves as a reminder that no matter how far you fall, it’s never too late to change, heal, and rise again.

#thehopeaholics  #redemption #recovery #AlcoholAddiction #AddictionRecovery #wedorecover #SobrietyJourney #MyStory #Hope #wedorecover #treatmentcenter #natalieevamarie

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Timestamps:
00:03:01 - Early Gambling Beginnings
00:05:10 - First Rehab and Substance Use
00:08:03 - Arrest and Public Scandal
00:11:24 - Friend’s Murder and Relapse
00:13:18 - Intervention and Trip to Sierra Tucson
00:14:26 - Move to LA and First Real Sobriety
00:15:25 - Making Money and Relapse into Gambling
00:17:05 - Losing $10.2 Million
00:18:20 - Vegas Escapades Begin
00:22:04 - Covid Collapse and Drinking Again
00:25:12 - Cirque Lodge and Colombia Spiral
00:29:49 - Fired and Hitting Rock Bottom
00:31:02 - Family Cuts Him Off
00:33:02 - Sobriety and New Sponsor
00:34:23 - Gambling Relapse During Sobriety
00:35:12 - Suicidal Thoughts and Confession
00:38:58 - Gamblers Anonymous and Financial Honesty
00:42:11 - Launching Podcast and Raising Awareness
00:44:39 - Making Amends and Working at Family Restaurant
00:45:03 - Balancing AA and GA Recovery
00:46:44 - Commitment to 12-Step Program and Spiritual Growth