I Lost Everything Before I Turned 21 | AJ's Gambling Story

I interview AJ about his gambling addiction story that all took place before he turned 21.

🤝 How I Quit Gambling: https://youtu.be/ZUx9qIm4sNY

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About AJ: I'm AJ, a college student from New Jersey with a passion for helping others. I work as a behavioral technician, supporting individuals with special needs in developing life and social skills. I’m studying education to become a teacher one day. Making a difference in people’s lives has always been my purpose, but for a while, I lost sight of who I was. Gambling twisted me into someone unrecognizable. I kept it a secret for so long, convincing myself I had it under control while it slowly consumed me. It made me lie to myself and to everyone around me. I lost people I loved, and for a while, I didn’t know if I’d ever come back from it. But I did. Since quitting, my mind is clearer, my heart is lighter, and I’m finally starting to live without the weight of addiction holding me down. I’m rebuilding, learning, and growing every day. This journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s shaping me into the man I was always meant to be.

AJ's Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@aj.anzaldi?lang=en

AJ started on Fliff in high school with a $5-a-day promo, hit an $800 parlay, and believed he’d found easy money. Within months he was depositing paychecks, hiding bets in class, and chasing losses across DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, ESPN Bet, and Fanatics—culminating in an $11,000 casino-session swing and a desperate blank-check attempt that cost him his job and relationships. He made his last bet on November 2, 2024. We unpack underage access, why ads and bonuses hook teens, how isolation escalates stakes, and the habits that rebuilt his life: honesty, self-exclusion, therapy, faith, family, and daily routines. If this feels familiar, you’re not alone. Recovery is possible—start today. This channel is dedicated to spreading awareness about gambling addiction and helping individuals better understand the risks of excessive gambling. Through powerful storytelling, educational content, and real-life experiences, we aim to shine a light on the dangers of gambling and provide tools for recovery. Whether you're seeking help, supporting a loved one, or simply looking to learn more, our mission is to create a safe space for open conversations about gambling addiction.