From Gambling Addiction to Global Advocacy: Matt Zarb-Cousin’s Battle for Change

In episode ten of The Guiding Light Podcast, hosts Ben Holmes and Chris Gilham sit down with Matt Zarb-Cousin, whose journey from teenage gambling addiction to pioneering activist and entrepreneur offers valuable insights into the complexities of addiction, recovery, and systemic reform.

Matt’s story begins at age 16, when he fell victim to Fixed Odds Betting Terminals (FOBTs). By the time he reached 20, his debts soared to £20,000, and he reached a point of desperation and despair. In this candid conversation, Matt reveals how his addiction not only led him into severe financial trouble, but also left lasting scars on his mental health, still influencing him a decade into recovery.

Now the co-founder of Gamban—an innovative software designed to block gambling websites—Matt channelled his past struggles into a mission to protect others. As Director of Clean Up Gambling and a key figure in the influential Stop the FOBTs campaign, his activism has helped reshape UK gambling legislation, culminating in the reduction of FOBT maximum bets from £100 to £2. Matt also highlights the importance of education, prevention, and ongoing support for those exiting treatment, underscoring the interplay between addictive products, mental health, and the industry’s relentless marketing strategies.

Tune in as Matt Zarb-Cousin shares hard-won lessons, offers advice for anyone trapped in a cycle of addiction, and explains how understanding the forces behind harmful gambling practices can lead to meaningful, lasting change. This is a powerful episode that shines a light on both individual resilience and the collective effort needed to safeguard vulnerable communities.