For many Americans, sports betting has become increasingly accessible and normalized. With 38 states now offering legalized sports gambling and an estimated $23 billion bet on the 2024 Super Bowl alone, the landscape of addiction is changing rapidly. But there’s hope for those struggling, as demonstrated by Chaz Donati‘s powerful story of overcoming gambling addiction and this powerful conversation from the INHABIT podcast.

From Innocent Beginnings to Full-Blown Addiction

Like many who develop gambling problems, Chaz’s relationship with betting started innocently enough. “We started to use the word ‘bet’ at 15 or 16 years old, not knowing the impact it could have later in life,” he shares. “I bet you I can run faster, or I bet $5 I can beat you in basketball.”

This casual betting evolved into a 15-year battle with a gambling addiction that nearly cost him everything—including his life. The progression was subtle but steady, enabled by increasingly accessible betting platforms and technologies. “Now you can just do it sitting—before you had to go somewhere and call somebody or know somebody. Now I could jump on this thing and place a bet in 2 seconds,” Chaz explains while describing his journey of overcoming gambling addiction.

Breaking the Silence Around Men’s Mental Health

Statistics show that 59% of gambling addicts are men, yet many suffer in silence due to stigma. “There’s still a sense of ‘I’m a guy, I’m a man’,” Chaz notes. “We’re wired to provide.” This mentality often prevents men from seeking help until they hit rock bottom. Overcoming gambling addiction requires breaking this silence and seeking support.

For Chaz, that moment came in July 2021 when he contemplated suicide. The constant fear of calls from bookies, loan companies, and creditors had become unbearable. With support from loved ones, he finally sought professional help—a decision that would transform his life and lead to overcoming gambling addiction.

Finding Your More: A Framework for Recovery

Today, Chaz channels his competitive drive into healthier pursuits through his “Find Your More” framework:

• Motivation: Building discipline through small, consistent actions
• Opportunity: Seeking positive connections and growth
• Routine: Creating healthy daily habits
• Energy: Directing focus toward recovery and helping others

He’s completed multiple Ironman competitions and is training for ultra-marathons—proving that addiction can be transformed into achievement with the right support and mindset. His journey is a testament to overcoming gambling addiction.

Resources for Those Struggling

If you or someone you love is battling gambling addiction, help is available:

• Gamblers Anonymous meetings
• Reddit’s recovery community
• State and local support services
• Professional counseling

“Every recovery journey looks different,” Chaz emphasizes. “The most important thing is taking that first step and being honest about needing help. Overcoming gambling addiction is possible.”

Through his work with Find Your More Performance LLC and the Gambling Awareness Club, Chaz continues to share his story and support others in recovery. His message is clear: bet on yourself and your ability to overcome addiction—it’s the surest wager you’ll ever make.

Connect with Chaz and Learn More About the Resources Mentioned in this Episode

• Instagram: @chazdonati
• YouTube: Gambling Awareness Club
• YouTube: Find Your More
• “From Darkness to Ironman” documentary on YouTube
• The Power of One More by Ed Mylett*

Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, or listen on Spotify below.

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