High Stakes: Addiction and the Thrill of Performance

This chapter explores the addictive nature of gambling and the exhilarating highs and lows experienced by individuals, particularly within the pool playing community. The speakers candidly discuss the emotional toll of performance, especially during the pandemic, shedding light on how the pursuit of audience approval can lead to unhealthy dependencies. Ultimately, the chapter examines the complex interplay between addiction, creativity, and the entertainment industry, emphasizing personal reflections on sobriety and the chaotic realities of bar culture.