The casino almost ruined my life - Sruli -S2 Ep9

Srulie is eight years clean from a gambling addiction that once controlled every part of his world. After years of hiding, chasing losses, and living a double life, he reached a moment where he knew something had to change. Through recovery, he rebuilt his life piece by piece. Today, Srulie gives back by sponsoring others and guiding people who are battling the same addiction he once faced. His story is a powerful reminder that no matter how deep the struggle, recovery is possible. 00:00 – Gambling, secrecy & rock bottom 01:01 – Introduction: courage and addiction 02:16 – Why GA protects anonymity 04:25 – Growing up: background & upbringing 06:22 – First exposure to gambling (age 8) 08:11 – Poker, excitement & crossing the line 10:18 – The casino escape explained 15:04 – “Breaking even” and denial 17:42 – Gambling, immorality & casinos 20:23 – Why nothing else mattered 23:51 – Lying, double life & loss of trust 27:12 – The long drive home & planning the next bet 29:44 – Online gambling & modern dangers 33:10 – Why gambling addiction is hidden 39:16 – Hitting rock bottom 47:35 – The moment that changed everything 50:47 – First Gamblers Anonymous meeting 56:15 – Enabling & financial control 1:02:35 – Relapse triggers & staying sober 1:09:47 – Temptation never fully disappears 1:15:53 – Replacing the rush 1:21:49 – Faith, recovery & rebuilding identity 1:27:47 – Gratitude to his wife 1:36:11 – Message before Chanukah 1:41:03 – Final message: you’re not alone Follow us on Socials for More Content: Subscribe on YouTube -https://www.youtube.com/@Thestruggle.podcast Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/thestruggle.podcast?igsh=MTZ2cnp3dTJpYXl0cQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr Instagram-https://www.instagram.com/narcissistic_torture/ Spotify -https://open.spotify.com/show/44tgKK9oZF2z01wwYZQBRL?si=HKGgYRG2Rm-5G8jK75UteQ Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-struggle/id1796423076 To Reach Me (Joe Farkas) Phone: 845-420-7227 Email: [email protected] To Reach Srulie Phone - 646-847-9371 Email - [email protected] #GamblingRecovery #AddictionRecovery #RecoveryJourney #GamblingAddiction #BreakTheCycle #MentalHealthMatters #YouAreNotAlone #TheStrugglePodcast #HopeAndHealing #RealTalk #LifeLessons