Five Years of Building A Life I Don't Want To Escape From.

Episode 137 of the The Broke Girl Society Podcast podcast, hosted by Christina Cook - The Broke Girl Society, titled "Five Years of Building A Life I Don't Want To Escape From." was published on March 6, 2026 and runs 17 minutes.

March 6, 2026 ·17m · The Broke Girl Society Podcast

Summary

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/[email protected] Sponsors & ResourcesHelpful ResourcesInternational Help

Episode Description