In the first half, therapist Howard Riback explained how to recognize gambling problems, the nature of addiction, and how societal changes have encouraged more reckless risk-taking. He candidly recounted his own experience with addiction, stating, "I fell into a horrible hole of gambling troubles, an abyss that I thought would never end." His descent began in his mid-20s, drawn in not just by the thrill of the game—particularly blackjack—but by what he referred to as "the math behind the game." However, this passion quickly spiraled out of control, leading to a life-threatening problem that affected his relationships and finances.
Riback noted that the first signs of gambling addiction often include borrowing money, neglecting bills, and changes in mood and behavior. He pointed out the importance of recognizing these signs and how friends and family can play a crucial role in intervening before the situation escalates. With the proliferation of casinos in the US and the rise of online gambling, Riback sees the the gap between recreational gambling and addiction almost disappearing, yet he admitted that "done properly... it can be done recreationally." He reiterated that his work focuses on the "3-4% that don't" gamble responsibly.
Riback discussed the role of personal agency in recovery, stressing that a person must realize they have a problem before meaningful change can occur. "You know when your actions are whacked out... you know when the world of gambling has taken over your mind," he advised listeners. The conversation then shifted to practical advice, with Riback explaining that awareness and self-reflection are key. "If you took your last $1,000 in the bank and went to the casino... [you know] it's not a smart thing to do," he asserted, adding, "What is gambling? You're buying a dream."
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In the second half, prominent paranormalist and psychic Uri Geller discussed current political events involving Israel and Iran, and also shared his own psychic abilities. He detailed how the ongoing conflict in the Middle East has escalated to the point where bomb shelters have become a necessity for Israelis. Geller emphasized the existential threat posed by Iran's nuclear ambitions, stating, "Iran already had enough material to make nine nuclear weapons." He urged the US to take decisive military action, noting that "the Iranian people are the regime's biggest victims." Geller insisted the general sentiment within Iran is one of yearning for freedom, and he called for support for those advocating change.
The topic then turned to Geller's extraordinary abilities. He recounted a vivid experience from his youth when he was struck by a beam of light, suggesting that this event laid the groundwork for his psychic talents. An MRI scan recently revealed something unusual in his brain, which he suspects relates to the powers he has developed over time. "The doctors in the control room freaked out," he recounted. He also referenced his talent in bending spoons, which has drawn considerable media attention.
Geller claimed he had a significant encounter with Dr. Wernher von Braun at NASA, where he purportedly interacted with extraterrestrial materials and observed alien bodies in glass tubes. Throughout the conversation, Geller emphasized the importance of remaining open-minded towards exceptional phenomena, arguing that many individuals possess latent psychic abilities. He urged listeners to embrace their potential, reminding them, "We are energetic beings. We all have powers." He also expressed a desire for peace and a collaborative future, urging communities to seek understanding and support for peaceful coexistence, particularly between Israeli and Iranian civilians.
News segment guests: Howard Bloom, Michael Shedlock