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Gambling Recovery: Taking Back Your Life
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Episode 29 · Season 2 · May 26, 2026 · 1 hr 2 min

Two years to lose almost everything

College, a bookmaker, and an escalation that took less than two years. Saul now speaks about it on Dr. Phil, PBS and USA Today.

In conversation with

Saul Malek

Prevention advocate

0:001:02:08

Episode notes

Today’s guest is someone who has become one of the leading voices in gambling addiction awareness and prevention, especially when it comes to young adults and sports betting culture.

Saul Malek grew up in Houston, Texas, in a loving family. What started as a fun way to connect with friends eventually evolved into sports betting after being introduced to a local bookmaker during college.

And like so many stories we hear in this space, the escalation happened fast.

In less than two years, Saul lost sleep, money, relationships, peace of mind, and nearly his life. But today, more than five years removed from gambling, he’s turned his pain into purpose ,using his lived experience to educate others and expose the realities of modern gambling addiction.

You may have seen him featured on Dr. Phil, PBS, or USA Today, but beyond the headlines, Saul is someone making a real impact through honesty, advocacy, and education.

I’m honored to welcome Saul Malek to Gambling Recovery: Taking Back Your Life.

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