In this episode of ODAAT Gambling Awareness with Rob Minnick, Alyx Effron, Founder of Collectors MD, joins the show for a candid conversation about how the same psychological triggers used in casinos and sports-betting apps have crept into the hobby—and how breaks, dopamine loops, and the endless chase can spiral into compulsion, debt, and shame.

Alyx shares his story—from early gambling wins, to rock-bottom moments before and after his wedding, to finding recovery through GA, Right Choice Recovery, and ultimately founding Collectors MD as a peer-support movement for collectors. Rob responds throughout, underscoring the importance of honesty, accountability, and accessible resources for anyone struggling.

Together, they explore:

• How breaks and “gamble within a gamble” formats mimic slot machines and sports betting

• Why kids and younger collectors are uniquely at risk without age gates or safeguards

• The emotional and financial fallout: secrecy, guilt, debt, and broken trust

• Guardrails that work: self-exclusion, budgets, transparency, and peer support

• What Collectors MD offers: weekly anonymous meetings, daily reflections, and community without judgment

This isn’t about tearing down the hobby—it’s about telling the truth so people can enjoy it without losing themselves in the process. If you’ve ever felt your collecting turn into chasing, or your spending slip out of control, this episode is worth your time.

Subscribe, comment, and join the movement. And remember: collect with intention, not compulsion.

Learn More & Join The Movement:

Website: https://www.collectorsmd.com

Socials: https://www.hopp.bio/collectorsmd

Weekly Meeting Sign-Up: https://bit.ly/45koiMX

Contact: info@collectorsmd.com

Instagram: @collectorsmd

#CollectorsMD | #RipResponsibly | #CollectResponsibly

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdTUWvQm3K4