Are We Raising a Generation of Gambling Addicts?

We would love to hear from you, follow this link to send us a message directly. Include a voice message and you might even be featured in a future episode! Sports gambling is no longer relegated to casinos in Las Vegas or Atlantic City. It’s in your pocket, available to everyone—including kids—through apps, websites, and even online video games. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to discuss the potential impact of early exposure to gambling and what dads can do to help their kids understand the risks. Why This MattersKids need to understand how gambling works, why the odds favor the house, how gambling can become compulsive, and why hiding gambling or chasing losses can damage trust and relationships. Key Takeaways1. A study from Common Sense Media found that 36% of boys ages 11–17 reported gambling in the past year. 2. Early exposure can normalize gambling and make risky behavior seem like harmless entertainment. 3. Dads can help by talking openly about gambling, teaching how the odds work, paying attention to what kids are doing online, and creating an environment where kids can tell the truth. Practical Tips For Dads 1. Start the conversation before there's a problem. Don't wait until you discover your child has placed a bet. Ask questions like: “Have you ever seen a sports betting ad?”“Do any of your friends talk about betting?”“What do you think about sports gambling?”“Have you ever seen gambling in a video game?”The goal isn't to interrogate your child. It's to make sure they know they can talk to you. 2. Teach your kids how gambling actually works. Explain probability, odds, and the fact that gambling companies are designed to make money. 3. Pay attention to what your kids are doing online. Know what games they play, what apps they use, what they're watching, and what their friends are talking about. 4. Create an environment where your kids can tell the truth. Your child needs to know that if they make a bad decision, they can come to you. Important Episode Timestamps:[00:00] Are We Raising a Generation of Gamblers? [00:57] How Accessible Gambling Has Become [04:31] Kids’ Developing Brains Make Gambling Especially Dangerous [07:16] Where Are Kids Actually Gambling and Do Dads Even Know? [09:35] The Real Consequences: Financial Damage, Shame, and Secrecy [13:40] Gambling Rewires the Brain and Even Losing Becomes a Hook 15:43] Why Shame and Secrecy Are the Hidden Dangers Behind the Addiction [17:07] Start the Conversation Before It's a Problem [20:42] The House Always Wins [23:51] This Week's Pro Move: Have a 10-minute conversation with your kids about gambling this week. Don't make it a lecture. Ask what they've seen, what their friends are doing, and what they think about sports betting. Then tell them: “You will never be in trouble for coming to me and telling me the truth.” Sponsor: The All Pro Dad Podcast is proudly brought to you by Family First, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping parents with resources to strengthen their families. Learn more at FamilyFirst.net. If you or your child has a gambling problem, call or text 888-Admit-It (236-4848) for help.  Gambling Help All Pro Dad Resources Are We Raising a Generation of Gambling Addicts? Do You Have a Gambling Problem? Common Sense Media – Betting on Boys: Understanding Gambling Among Adolescent Boys Gambling Commission – 2025 Headline Statistics Journal of Gambling Studies – Predicting Problem Gambling in Young Men Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com