Episodios

  • Elizabeth Thielen - Nicasa Behavioral Health

    Elizabeth Thielen - Nicasa Behavioral Health
    Mar 20 2026
    In this episode of The Broke Girl Society Podcast, Christina sits down with Liz Thielen, who joins on behalf of Nicasa, to talk about the powerful intersection of lived experience, professional work, and recovery support in the gambling space.Liz shares her personal story of how gambling became woven into family, identity, loss, trauma, and adrenaline, and how even working in the addiction field did not protect her from developing harmful gambling behaviors. Together, Christina and Liz explore the difference between abstinence and recovery, the role of shame, the importance of women-centered recovery spaces, and why softer, curiosity-based support can be so impactful.They also talk about the gaps that still exist in the broader addiction field, the importance of gambling-specific training for clinicians, how technology is changing both gambling and recovery, and why support needs to be more accessible, individualized, and compassionate.Connect with Christina Cook and The Broke Girl SocietyChristina Cook is the founder of The Broke Girl Society, a recovery-focused community and platform supporting women impacted by gambling harm.Website: https://thebrokegirlsociety.com/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebrokegirlsocietyEmail: christina@thebrokegirlsociety.comPODCAST SPONSORS:The Better Institute (PA Residents) Where people go to get better. ⁠https://betterinstitute.com/problem-gambling-help/⁠Evive An app designed to help you better understand your relationship with gambling and support your recovery journey. ⁠GetEvive.com⁠Nicasa Behavioral Health Services (Illinois Residents) Since 2002, Nicasa has been helping individuals in Illinois address gambling behaviors through awareness, outreach, and treatment services. Learn more at ⁠N-I-C-A-S-A.org⁠Adult Gambling Treatment ⁠https://nicasa.org/program/adult-gambling-treatment/⁠Youth Gambling Treatment ⁠https://nicasa.org/program/youth-gambling-treatment/⁠**Important note: If you are struggling with your mental health or having thoughts of self-harm, please seek the help of trained professionals. We speak only from our own experiences. This podcast is meant to encourage and support your recovery journey, not replace professional care.Resources:BGS Resource Book ⁠https://bgs-media.com/resources/⁠GamFin Financial counseling with professionals who understand the impact gambling can have on your financial health and goals. (U.S. residents only)⁠ ⁠https://www.gamfin.org/⁠⁠Birches Health Find a certified gambling therapist through telehealth and attend sessions from the comfort of your home. ⁠https://bircheshealth.com/brokegirlsociety⁠IPGGC: https://ipggc.org/directory/ Find a gambling certified therapistGamblers Anonymous ⁠https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga/⁠24/7 Meetings Worldwide ⁠https://gamblersinrecovery.com/⁠Recovery Road Online Meetings ⁠https://recoveryroadonline.com/⁠Women’s gambling recovery support outside the U.S.:UKBetknowmore UK – New Beginningshttps://www.betknowmoreuk.org/support-information/new-beginningsGambleAware / Breakeven – WINGShttps://www.gambleaware.org/tools-and-support/support-in-your-area/service-finder-results/wings-women-in-need-of-gambling-support/GamCare – Women’s Pathwayhttps://www.gamcare.org.uk/get-support/womens-pathway/Thrivin’ Togetherhttps://www.thrivintogether.org.uk/IrelandExtern – Women’s Gambling Support Networkhttps://www.extern.org/our-services/problem-gambling/women-s-gambling-support-networkAustraliaThe Untangle Projecthttps://www.theuntangleprojectaus.net/Gambling Help Online – Peer Support Communityhttps://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/tools-resources/join-communityCanadaResponsible Gambling Council – Help for Canadianshttps://responsiblegambling.org/for-the-public/problem-gambling-help/help-for-canadians/CAMH – Problem Gambling Supporthttps://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-illness-and-addiction-index/problem-gambling
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    57 m
  • Paula's Story

    Paula's Story
    Mar 13 2026

    In this episode, Paula shares her personal journey with gambling harm through social casinos and then, later on, online gambling. Paula details how it began during her pregnancy and the emotional struggles that accompanied it. She discusses the impact of societal stigma on motherhood and the challenges of finding community support. Paula emphasizes the importance of building a better relationship with money and the role of tough love in recovery. Throughout her story, she highlights the significance of being present for her family and offers hope to others facing similar struggles.

    **Important note: If you are struggling with your mental health or having thoughts of self-harm, please seek the help of trained professionals. We speak only from our own experiences. This podcast is meant to encourage and support your recovery journey, not replace professional care.

    PODCAST SPONSORS:

    The Better Institute (PA Residents) Where people go to get better. ⁠https://betterinstitute.com/problem-gambling-help/⁠

    GamFin Financial counseling with professionals who understand the impact gambling can have on your financial health and goals. (U.S. residents only) ⁠https://www.gamfin.org/⁠

    Evive An app designed to help you better understand your relationship with gambling and support your recovery journey. ⁠GetEvive.com⁠

    Nicasa Behavioral Health Services (Illinois Residents) Since 2002, Nicasa has been helping individuals in Illinois address gambling behaviors through awareness, outreach, and treatment services. Learn more at ⁠N-I-C-A-S-A.org⁠

    • Adult Gambling Treatment ⁠https://nicasa.org/program/adult-gambling-treatment/⁠

    • Youth Gambling Treatment ⁠https://nicasa.org/program/youth-gambling-treatment/⁠

    Birches Health Find a certified gambling therapist through telehealth and attend sessions from the comfort of your home. ⁠https://bircheshealth.com/brokegirlsociety⁠

    Resources:

    BGS Resource Book ⁠https://bgs-media.com/resources/⁠

    National Council on Problem Gambling ⁠https://www.ncpgambling.org/⁠

    800-GAMBLER ⁠https://800gambler.org/⁠

    Gamblers Anonymous ⁠https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga/⁠

    24/7 Meetings Worldwide ⁠https://gamblersinrecovery.com/⁠

    Recovery Road Online Meetings ⁠https://recoveryroadonline.com/⁠

    UK ⁠https://gordonmoody.org.uk/⁠ ⁠https://www.betknowmoreuk.org/services/new-beginnings⁠

    Australia ⁠https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/⁠

    Canada ⁠https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-illness-and-addiction-index/problem-gambling⁠

    Christina Cook ⁠https://thebrokegirlsociety.com/⁠ ⁠christina@thebrokegirlsociety.com⁠

    Episode Sponsors & ResourcesHelpful ResourcesInternational Help
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    40 m
  • Five Years of Building A Life I Don't Want To Escape From.

    Five Years of Building A Life I Don't Want To Escape From.
    Mar 6 2026
    In this special episode of The Broke Girl Society, Christina celebrates five years of recovery from gambling and reflects on the journey that took her from secrecy, shame, and absolute chaos… to healing, community, and purpose.She shares what life looked like before recovery (spoiler alert: it was a mess), the emotional rollercoaster of early recovery, and what it actually looks like to learn how to sit with uncomfortable feelings instead of running back to gambling. Christina also talks about the unique stigma women often face when struggling with gambling and why creating women-centered recovery spaces became such an important part of her work. Because sometimes you just need a room where you can say the honest things without someone explaining sports betting odds to you.This episode is a reminder that recovery isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress, honesty, and slowly building a life you don’t feel the need to escape from… even on the days when your hormones enter the chat.**Important note:If you are struggling with your mental health or having thoughts of self-harm, please seek the help of trained professionals. We speak only from our own experiences. This podcast is meant to encourage and support your recovery journey, not replace professional care.PODCAST SPONSORS:The Better Institute (PA Residents)Where people go to get better.https://betterinstitute.com/problem-gambling-help/GamFinFinancial counseling with professionals who understand the impact gambling can have on your financial health and goals. (U.S. residents only)https://www.gamfin.org/EviveAn app designed to help you better understand your relationship with gambling and support your recovery journey.Nicasa Behavioral Health Services (Illinois Residents)Since 2002, Nicasa has been helping individuals in Illinois address gambling behaviors through awareness, outreach, and treatment services.Learn more at N-I-C-A-S-A.orgAdult Gambling Treatmenthttps://nicasa.org/program/adult-gambling-treatment/Youth Gambling Treatmenthttps://nicasa.org/program/youth-gambling-treatment/Birches HealthFind a certified gambling therapist through telehealth and attend sessions from the comfort of your home.https://bircheshealth.com/brokegirlsocietyResources: BGS Resource Bookhttps://bgs-media.com/resources/National Council on Problem Gamblinghttps://www.ncpgambling.org/800-GAMBLERhttps://800gambler.org/Gamblers Anonymoushttps://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga/24/7 Meetings Worldwidehttps://gamblersinrecovery.com/Recovery Road Online Meetingshttps://recoveryroadonline.com/UKhttps://gordonmoody.org.uk/https://www.betknowmoreuk.org/services/new-beginningsAustraliahttps://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/Canadahttps://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-illness-and-addiction-index/problem-gamblingChristina Cookhttps://thebrokegirlsociety.com/christina@thebrokegirlsociety.comEpisode Sponsors & ResourcesHelpful ResourcesInternational Help
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    18 m
  • Looking Back To Move Ahead w/ Adam from The Modern Meeting Podcast

    Looking Back To Move Ahead w/ Adam from The Modern Meeting Podcast
    Dec 30 2025

    In the last episode of 2025 for the BGS, Christina Cook and Adam Lyons reflect on their personal journeys in recovery, discussing the importance of collaboration, setting achievable goals, and navigating relationships. Looking ahead to 2026, they express a desire to broaden conversations around recovery and continue fostering a culture of understanding and support.


    Find Adam and The Modern Meeting Podcast Here: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jMSSKkadnvzbvZl33dzZc

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ModernMeeting


    **If you are struggling with your mental health or having thoughts of self harm, please seek the help of professionals. We only speak from our own perspective and experience. This recording should not be used as a replacement for professional help but as encouragement in your recovery journey.

    ~ This episode is sponsored by The Better Institute - Where people go to get better!

    https://betterinstitute.com/problem-gambling-help/'

    ~ Gamfin - Financial Counseling with counselors who understand the impacts of gambling on financial health and individual goals. (For those in the US only).

    https://www.gamfin.org/

    ~ Evive - An app that can help you better understand your relationship with gambling and help you navigate recovery in a new way! Use code BGS for ONE year free!!

    https://www.getevive.com/

    ~ Birches Health - Find a Gambling Certified Therapist through telehealth that allows you to have a session in the comfort of your own home.

    https://bircheshealth.com/brokegirlsociety

    Resource Book: https://bgs-media.com/resources/

    -************************************************************************************************************

    For more information on the GRIT Act:

    https://www.ncpgambling.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/2022.09.01-GRIT-Act-OneSheet.pdf

    If you’d like to support the work I do please rate this episode (Please be Kind!)

    #gamblingaddiction

    #recovery

    #gamblersanonymous

    #gambling


    Helpful links:

    https://www.ncpgambling.org/ You can find State and International Resources Here

    https://800gambler.org/

    https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga/

    https://gamblersinrecovery.com/ - 24/7 meetings all over the world

    https://recoveryroadonline.com/ - meetings throughout the day

    Christina Cook: https://thebrokegirlsociety.com/ / christina@thebrokegirlsociety.com

    UK Help:

    https://gordonmoody.org.uk/

    https://www.betknowmoreuk.org/services/new-beginnings

    Australia Help:

    https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/

    Canada Help:

    https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-illness-and-addiction-index/problem-gambling
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    1 h y 28 m
  • Annelise - Internal Family Systems

    Annelise - Internal Family Systems
    Dec 21 2025
    **Building A Life We Don't Want To Escape From**In this episode of The Broke Girl Society Podcast, guest host Terra from the Ambitious Addicts Podcast talks with Annelise, a woman in recovery from gambling harm. Annelise shares how gambling escalated quickly during a period of intense financial stress and major life changes, and how an early win on a gambling app reinforced the belief that she could win again and fix everything. When fear and consequences grew, she took steps to interrupt the cycle, including using bet blocking tools, seeking support, and attending Gamblers Anonymous.The conversation focuses on Internal Family Systems (IFS), a therapy model Annelise uses both professionally and in her own recovery. She explains IFS as a way of understanding that we all have different internal parts, including protective parts and parts that hold pain. Annelise describes how addiction can function as a protective response when the system feels overwhelmed, and how healing begins when we approach these parts with curiosity and compassion rather than shame. She also emphasizes the importance of working with a therapist who is trained in IFS and trauma-informed care.Warning and Disclaimer: DisclaimerThis episode discusses gambling harm, addiction, shame, and trauma. The information shared is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or mental health advice. Internal Family Systems is a clinical therapy model. If you are struggling, please consider seeking support from a qualified licensed professional. If you are in crisis or feel unsafe, contact local emergency services or a crisis hotline in your area.**If you are struggling with your mental health or having thoughts of self harm, please seek the help of professionals. We only speak from our own perspective and experience. This recording should not be used as a replacement for professional help but as encouragement in your recovery journey. ~ This episode is sponsored by The Better Institute - Where people go to get better! https://betterinstitute.com/problem-gambling-help/'~ Gamfin - Financial Counseling with counselors who understand the impacts of gambling on financial health and individual goals. (For those in the US only). https://www.gamfin.org/ ~ Evive - An app that can help you better understand your relationship with gambling and help you navigate recovery in a new way! Use code BGS for ONE year free!! https://www.getevive.com/~ Birches Health - Find a Gambling Certified Therapist through telehealth that allows you to have a session in the comfort of your own home. https://bircheshealth.com/brokegirlsocietyResource Book: https://bgs-media.com/resources/-************************************************************************************************************If you’d like to support the work I do please rate this episode (Please be Kind!)#gamblingaddiction#recovery#gamblersanonymous#gamblingHelpful links:https://www.ncpgambling.org/ You can find State and International Resources Herehttps://800gambler.org/https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga/https://gamblersinrecovery.com/ - 24/7 meetings all over the worldhttps://recoveryroadonline.com/ - meetings throughout the dayChristina Cook: https://thebrokegirlsociety.com/ / christina@thebrokegirlsociety.comUK Help:https://gordonmoody.org.uk/https://www.betknowmoreuk.org/services/new-beginningsAustralia Help:https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/Canada Help:https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-illness-and-addiction-index/problem-gambling
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    46 m
  • Kate's Story and Advocacy

    Kate's Story and Advocacy
    Nov 17 2025
    In this conversation, Kate Seselja opens up about her own experience of gambling harm and the years she spent caught in a system designed to keep her trapped. She shares how the gambling industry manipulates vulnerability and then labels the individual as the problem, instead of acknowledging the systemic forces that fuel addiction. Kate breaks down the difference between a “problem gambler” and a person experiencing gambling harm, and she shines a light on how the industry benefits from that misunderstanding.Disclaimer: Kate’s views and experiences are her own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Christina or The Broke Girl Society. Find Kate Here: https://www.thehopeprojectaustralia.com.au/Kate’s book preorder: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdHYzphmZXJYynGk0IHbByDlTY6hJarU0gEhuopUhucBR9eBg/viewformHere is the link to the documentary KACHING Kate spoke about: https://youtu.be/bny1qgKO46A**If you are struggling with your mental health or having thoughts of self harm, please seek the help of professionals. We only speak from our own perspective and experience. This recording should not be used as a replacement for professional help but as encouragement in your recovery journey. ~ This episode is sponsored by The Better Institute - Where people go to get better! https://betterinstitute.com/problem-gambling-help/'~ Gamfin - Financial Counseling with counselors who understand the impacts of gambling on financial health and individual goals. (For those in the US only). https://www.gamfin.org/ ~ Evive - An app that can help you better understand your relationship with gambling and help you navigate recovery in a new way! Use code BGS for ONE year free!! https://www.getevive.com/~ Birches Health - Find a Gambling Certified Therapist through tele-health that allows you to have a session in the comfort of your own home. https://bircheshealth.com/ Resource Book: https://bgs-media.com/resources/-************************************************************************************************************For more information on the GRIT Act:https://www.ncpgambling.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/2022.09.01-GRIT-Act-OneSheet.pdfIf you’d like to support the work I do please rate this episode (Please be Kind!)#gamblingaddiction#recovery#gamblersanonymous#gamblingHelpful links:https://www.ncpgambling.org/ You can find State and International Resources Herehttps://800gambler.org/https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga/https://gamblersinrecovery.com/ - 24/7 meetings all over the worldhttps://recoveryroadonline.com/ - meetings throughout the dayChristina Cook: https://thebrokegirlsociety.com/ / christina@thebrokegirlsociety.comUK Help:https://gordonmoody.org.uk/https://www.betknowmoreuk.org/services/new-beginningsAustralia Help:https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/Canada Help:https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-illness-and-addiction-index/problem-gambling
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    59 m
  • Beth McDonough - Standby...

    Beth McDonough - Standby...
    Oct 30 2025

    In this episode of the Broke Girl Society podcast, host Christina Cook talks with Beth McDonough, a former newscaster who shares her very public journey through alcohol addiction and recovery. They discuss the complexities of co-occurring disorders, the impact of trauma on mental health, and the stigma surrounding addiction. Beth recounts her experiences with alcoholism, the consequences of her actions, and the importance of seeking help. Beth's new book, 'Stand By,' is a testament to her journey and a guide for others navigating similar struggles.


    Find Beth here: ⁠https://www.bethmcdmedia.com/⁠

    Stan By on Amazon: ⁠https://a.co/d/5OEZlUm⁠



    **If you are struggling with your mental health or having thoughts of self harm, please seek the help of professionals. We only speak from our own perspective and experience. This recording should not be used as a replacement for professional help but as encouragement in your recovery journey.

    ~ This episode is sponsored by The Better Institute - Where people go to get better!

    ⁠https://betterinstitute.com/problem-gambling-help/'⁠

    ~ Gamfin - Financial Counseling with counselors who understand the impacts of gambling on financial health and individual goals. (For those in the US only).

    ⁠https://www.gamfin.org/⁠

    ~ Evive - An app that can help you better understand your relationship with gambling and help you navigate recovery in a new way! Use code BGS for ONE year free!!

    ⁠https://www.getevive.com/⁠

    ~ Birches Health - Find a Gambling Certified Therapist through telehealth that allows you to have a session in the comfort of your own home.

    ⁠https://bircheshealth.com/⁠

    Resource Book: ⁠https://bgs-media.com/resources/⁠

    -************************************************************************************************************

    For more information on the GRIT Act:

    ⁠https://www.ncpgambling.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/2022.09.01-GRIT-Act-OneSheet.pdf⁠

    If you’d like to support the work I do please rate this episode (Please be Kind!)

    #gamblingaddiction

    #recovery

    #gamblersanonymous

    #gambling


    Helpful links:

    ⁠https://www.ncpgambling.org/⁠ You can find State and International Resources Here

    ⁠https://800gambler.org/⁠

    ⁠https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga/⁠

    ⁠https://gamblersinrecovery.com/⁠ - 24/7 meetings all over the world

    ⁠https://recoveryroadonline.com/⁠ - meetings throughout the day

    Christina Cook: ⁠https://thebrokegirlsociety.com/⁠ / ⁠christina@thebrokegirlsociety.com⁠

    UK Help:

    ⁠https://gordonmoody.org.uk/⁠

    ⁠https://www.betknowmoreuk.org/services/new-beginnings⁠

    Australia Help:

    ⁠https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/⁠

    Canada Help:

    ⁠https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-illness-and-addiction-index/problem-gambling⁠
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    1 h y 3 m
  • Maggie's Story

    Maggie's Story
    Oct 11 2025

    In this episode, Maggie shares her personal journey of recovery from gambling harm, detailing her early experiences with gambling, the spiral into compulsive behavior, and the impact on her life and relationships. She discusses the challenges of seeking help, the role of support groups, and the importance of coping strategies in her recovery. Maggie reflects on her current status, feeling stronger than ever and committed to her recovery journey.

    **If you are struggling with your mental health or having thoughts of self harm, please seek the help of professionals. We only speak from our own perspective and experience. This recording should not be used as a replacement for professional help but as encouragement in your recovery journey.

    ~ This episode is sponsored by The Better Institute - Where people go to get better!

    https://betterinstitute.com/problem-gambling-help/'

    ~ Gamfin - Financial Counseling with counselors who understand the impacts of gambling on financial health and individual goals. (For those in the US only).

    https://www.gamfin.org/

    ~ Evive - An app that can help you better understand your relationship with gambling and help you navigate recovery in a new way! Use code BGS for ONE year free!!

    https://www.getevive.com/

    ~ Birches Health - Find a Gambling Certified Therapist through telehealth that allows you to have a session in the comfort of your own home.

    https://bircheshealth.com/

    Resource Book: https://bgs-media.com/resources/

    -************************************************************************************************************

    For more information on the GRIT Act:

    https://www.ncpgambling.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/2022.09.01-GRIT-Act-OneSheet.pdf

    If you’d like to support the work I do please rate this episode (Please be Kind!)

    #gamblingaddiction

    #recovery

    #gamblersanonymous

    #gambling


    Helpful links:

    https://www.ncpgambling.org/ You can find State and International Resources Here

    https://800gambler.org/

    https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/ga/

    https://gamblersinrecovery.com/ - 24/7 meetings all over the world

    https://recoveryroadonline.com/ - meetings throughout the day

    Christina Cook: https://thebrokegirlsociety.com/ / christina@thebrokegirlsociety.com

    UK Help:

    https://gordonmoody.org.uk/

    https://www.betknowmoreuk.org/services/new-beginnings

    Australia Help:

    https://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/

    Canada Help:

    https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-illness-and-addiction-index/problem-gambling
    Más Menos
    51 m