Jonathan is in his mid-50’s and has been in Gamblers Anonymous for over nine years now. His dad was a gambler and drug addict, and he was brought up by his single mother who worked multiple jobs. Jonathan started gambling in college then started working in finance and ended up in the entertainment industry. He focussed on sports gambling and regularly used recreational drugs. Johnathan started gambling with client’s money, continued trying to recover his losses and ended up in prison for 6 years for embezzlement.
Johnathan was briefly in Gamblers Anonymous before prison but found that it really helped when he left prison as it was a lot more difficult to find a job then. GA members were non-judgemental, and enabled him to feel accepted and worthwhile. In GA, Jonathan learnt about the importance of trust, honesty and respect in dealing with others. He also found great benefit in helping others to navigate their recovery from compulsive gambling. He feels a strong bond with GA and the other members and to keeping the meetings open for those seeking help with their gambling addiction.
If you’re having trouble with gambling, or have a friend or family member that does, then maybe Gamblers Anonymous could help – phone (03) 9696 6108 or visit their website gaaustralia.org.au for information and to see a list of local meetings.
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Here are the links to the artists and song played on today’s show:
Nasman Donovan - Louvre:
Lisa Crouch - I Love You More:
No PROMISES - Those Boots:
The Living Free Crew
