A STORY PEOPLE REMEMBER. A CONVERSATION THAT MATTERS.
I spent years hiding the reality of my addiction. It cost me my business, my financial security, my freedom and the future I thought I had built.
Today, I speak openly about what happened, not to shock audiences, but to help people understand how addiction harm develops, why it remains hidden, and what recovery can make possible.
Areas my talks cover:
The psychology of addiction
Understanding the mindset of a gambling addict and the behavioural patterns that can begin developing from a young age
Facing adversity
My journey through bankruptcy, business collapse, national press exposure and prison, and what adversity teaches us about character and resilience
Rock bottom: The turning point
The mental processes I went through at my lowest point, and how those moments can become the catalyst for change
A world of temptation
The modern environment we live in, including constant exposure to gambling, social media and other addictive pursuits, and the psychology behind why these pressures are increasing
Recognising and managing the problem
Warning signs of harmful behaviours, how to spot them early, and practical steps individuals and organisations can take
Hope, Resilience & Redemption
How hitting rock bottom can become the foundation for rebuilding a life, turning pain into purpose and setbacks into strength
TESTIMONIALS
“Today we had the pleasure of welcoming Gab Stone into the Academy to deliver his gambling awareness workshop for our Scholars.
We all know how difficult it is to watch the football (or any sporting event) without seeing a betting advert flash up on the TV or the advertising boards. For a young footballer who grows up watching their favourite team every week, this constant reminder can be harmful...
Gab shared his lived experiences of addiction and the impact it had on his career, family and personal life, providing the lads with an important reminder of the detrimental effects gambling can really have.
A big thank you to Gab for educating our players, I would 100% recommend!”
Michael Deaville, Head of Academy Player Care, Rotherham United FC
“Gab’s story demonstrates the power of determination and perspective.
I came away with a renewed sense of purpose and focus”
Employee, Anglian Water
I have watched many assemblies and organised for a number of speakers to come in over the years. You always get a little nervous before assembly when you have a new speaker in, wondering how it's going to sit with the students. This one worked really, really well.
I organised for Gab, to come and speak with our 6th Form students about his challenges with gambling, recovery and how to come up from hitting rock bottom. I didn't need to worry as his honest sharing of how an addiction can affect anyone (even someone as successful as him) and how despite being pulled through the British press he has rebuilt his life after serving time, had the students engaged, asking questions and staying afterwards assembly to learn more.
Shelly Hacker, 6th Form Psychology lead, Camden School for Girls