Bad Odds, Bigger Harms: The Dangers of Online Sports Betting (Morning Air)

On Morning Air, Glen Lewerenz spoke with Jason Adkins, executive director of the Minnesota Catholic Conference, about the rapid growth of online sports betting and the serious harm it can cause to individuals, families, and society. Adkins pointed to the staggering rise of legal sports gambling, especially around major events like the NCAA tournament. But he drew an important distinction. He isn't referring to friends making casual sports wagers. Online sports betting puts access to high-stakes gambling directly onto a smartphone, making it available 24/7 and combining it with the same addictive technology that already keeps so many people glued to their screens. That constant access comes at a high price. Adkins described online gambling as “predatory capitalism” that targets vulnerable people, especially young men and those already under financial strain. The promise of easy money can quickly turn into a cycle of loss, desperation, and addiction. As he explained, once people begin chasing losses, the temptation compounds. What looks like entertainment can become a path to poverty, broken families, and deep personal suffering. The social cost is just as troubling. Atkins noted that states often promote gambling as a source of tax revenue, but the real gains are limited, while the harms are widespread. Families bear the burden through addiction, bankruptcy, and instability. Society bears it through regulation costs and the fallout of yet another vice made easier to access. For Catholics, this conversation also raises a spiritual warning. Glen connected the issue to the near occasion of sin: something that may seem small or manageable at first, but gradually leads a person into greater danger. That concern becomes even more urgent when gambling ads saturate sports coverage and normalize risky behavior. Atkins encouraged Catholics not to stay silent. By informing lawmakers and sharing real stories of harm, faithful citizens can help resist an industry that profits from human weakness. This issue is not only political or economic. It is about protecting human dignity and the common good. The best way to listen to the Best of the Week is on our #1 Free Catholic App. It’s free, and always will be! To get and share the Relevant Radio app, check it out here.