"I Was Ready To Blow My Brains Out" | The Dark Reality of Gambling Addiction with Brian Dolan
"I Was Ready To Blow My Brains Out" | The Dark Reality of Gambling Addiction with Brian Dolan  
Podcast: Nothing’s Off the Table with Louis Ruggiero
Published On: Thu Apr 02 2026
Description: "If someone else made it out, so can you." In this episode of Nothing's Off The Table, I sit down with my friend Brian De, a masters-level clinician and sober coach who has been in recovery for nine years from drugs, alcohol, and gambling. Brian shares his raw, honest journey—from the "moment of arrival" with his first drink in 9th grade to the high-stakes world of underground bookies at Sacred Heart. We dive deep into the "progression" of addiction, discussing how $50 bets eventually turned into $3,000 wagers and maxed-out credit cards. Brian opens up about his darkest moments, including the terrifying reality of suicidal ideation and the "defeated" feeling that finally led him to surrender and seek treatment. Whether you are struggling with addiction or are already in recovery looking to grow, this episode is a reminder that you are not alone. Topics Covered: * The loss of identity as an athlete and the start of substance use. * The rising danger of gambling accessibility through modern technology. * Why "consequences" were actually the best thing to happen to him. * The importance of uncovering secrets to begin the healing process. * Navigating the "pendulum" of dopamine and finding stability in recovery. If you or a loved one is suffering and you need professional advice, Brian is your guy. 🔔 Real stories. Raw comebacks. Nothing’s off the table. I sit down with people who’ve faced it all: addiction, loss, redemption and came out stronger. These are unfiltered conversations about resilience, recovery, and finding purpose again. If you’re ready to take the first step in your recovery, reach out to Banyan Treatment Centers — the team I personally believe in. They’ve helped thousands of people rebuild their lives. 👉 Call: [(855) 773-1502] 🌐 Visit: (https://www.banyantreatmentcenter.com/?utm_source=louis_podcast&utm_medium=influencer&utm_campaign=banyan_partnership&utm_content=episode_read) 🎙️ Hosted by Louis Ruggiero 📱 Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/nothingsoffpod) 📹 TikTok: (https://www.tiktok.com/@nothingsoffpod) 🔗 Linktree: (https://www.linktr.ee/nothingsoffthetable) Today’s Guest 🎙️ Connect with our guest: 👉 Instagram: [@GuestHandle](https://www.instagram.com/GuestHandle) 👉 TikTok: [@GuestHandle](https://www.tiktok.com/@GuestHandle) 👉 Website: [GuestWebsite.com](https://GuestWebsite.com) About the Show Hosted by Louis Ruggiero, a restaurateur, entrepreneur, and advocate for recovery, Nothing’s Off The Table is where real people share their real stories. From battling addiction to overcoming life’s toughest challenges, Louis and his guests uncover the moments that spark change and fuel unstoppable comebacks. Expect raw honesty, deep insights, and stories that hit home. Meet Louis Louis Ruggiero turned his life around after years of struggling with addiction, gambling, and substance abuse. Now, he’s on a mission to amplify voices — from celebrities to everyday survivors — sharing their journeys of grit, growth, and healing. #AddictionRecovery #WeDoRecover #NothingsofftheTable #LouisRuggiero #RecoverOutLoud #ComebackStories #BanyanTreatmentCenters #BanyanxLouis #BanyanRecovery #BanyanPodcastPartner #RecoveryIsPossible #AddictionRecovery #MentalHealthAwareness #RecoveryCommunity --- Disclaimer: The stories and views shared on Nothing’s Off The Table are personal experiences and not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult qualified professionals for guidance on personal matters. Copyright: © Nothing’s Off The Table with Louis Ruggiero. All rights reserved. Feel free to share or embed episodes with proper credit and a link to our official pages. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices