The idea for this podcast series came from our presenter Shayne Rodgers, who experienced a sports gambling addiction for over 8 years, wasting more time and money than he ever wanted to.
He decided a podcast series exploring the depths of gambling harm through the eyes of people who had lived through it was a great way to let people know they are not alone, that help and support is available and that change is actually possible.
We also know that shame and stigma are major barriers for people seeking help for gambling harm – the feelings of embarrassment, confusion and fear of judgement can be overwhelming.
Yet almost 12% of Victorians are experiencing some sort of gambling harm* – this includes people who are experiencing low levels of harm (like spending a bit more money or time at the pokies than planned) right through to people experiencing major losses to their finances and personal lives.
We hope the podcasts will encourage and inspire people to make the changes they need.
The podcasts have been produced by the Peer Connection team (www.peerconnection.org.au – a state-wide telephone peer support service for people struggling with gambling harm) at Banyule Community Health who are funded to provide Gambler’s Help services across the northern region of Melbourne. The project has been funded through the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation’s Prevention Partnership Program.
About Shayne Rodgers – podcast presenter
Shayne Rodgers is the creator, co-producer and presenter of the Not a Dollar More podcast series.
For many years, Shayne struggled to quit gambling and this affected every aspect of his life until he was finally able to quit in 2012.
Knowing all too well what it’s like to struggle though such issues, he now provides support to others still struggling with gambling harm through volunteering roles and now through this new podcast series.
He believes gambling can be an enjoyable activity, but he sees and hears all too often how quickly it can get out of control.
He has a passion for helping others and thinking of new ideas to try and get people engaged in helping themselves with their gambling issues.
Please feel free to contact us for more information.
*Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation, 2017.