Matthew Holt, creator of U.S. Integrity, dives into the murky waters of sports gambling. He reveals that although insider betting remains rampant post-legalization, athletes face increased harassment and pressure. Atlanta Hawks’ Larry Nance, Jr. shares his grueling encounters with enraged fans influenced by betting. Meanwhile, NCAA regulations aim to protect student-athletes, but the integrity of sports is increasingly jeopardized by unscrupulous practices. The discussion highlights the urgent need for oversight in a rapidly evolving gambling landscape.

Dive into the inaugural Riskies awards, celebrating the year's boldest and craziest decisions across politics, sports, and business! Discover the best and worst choices, like Theo the trader's hero call versus a major Bitcoin blunder. Explore the backlash over Greta Gerwig's lack of Oscar recognition and Juan Soto's groundbreaking contract move. The conversation also reveals the emotional undercurrents in Biden's re-election efforts, Apple’s puzzling withdrawal from EVs, and the humorous side of political betting. Get ready for a mix of laughs and insights!

Scott Galloway, Professor of marketing at NYU Stern, welcomes Michael Lewis for a deep dive into the alarming rise of sports betting in the U.S. They discuss its potential societal consequences, likening it to historical crises. Lewis also shares insights from his latest book, touching on investment strategies born from distress, particularly after the FTX collapse, while encouraging listeners to pursue their personal passions over societal expectations. A compelling mix of gambling, economics, and authenticity awaits!

Chris Andrews, a long-time Vegas sports bookie at South Point Hotel Casino, reflects on the evolution of sports betting. Jimmy Vaccaro, a veteran with a wealth of anecdotes, recounts the changes he's seen in the industry. Vinny Magliulo shares his unique journey from dealer to bookie. They discuss the origin of prop bets and why limiting smart bets can harm business. The trio offers a nostalgic look at how betting practices have shifted from traditional methods to today's player-focused wagering, emphasizing the vibrant history of Las Vegas gambling.

Billy Walters, a legendary sports bettor and author of *Gambler: Secrets from a Life at Risk*, shares his remarkable journey from a challenging childhood in Kentucky to becoming a millionaire in Las Vegas. He discusses his transformation from impulsive gambling to disciplined strategies shaped by personal hardships. Walters also sheds light on the evolution of sports betting through technology and analytics, as well as the rise of algorithmic betting amidst legal scrutiny. His insights into fantasy sports betting offer a glimpse into the competitive future of the gambling world.

Sean Kelly, an analyst at Bank of America specializing in the casino and sports gambling sectors, joins the conversation to unravel the complexities of sports betting in the U.S. He discusses the cultural clash and evolving acceptance of sports gambling post-2018 Supreme Court ruling. Kelly also dives into the economic and historical tensions between California tribes and major gambling companies. The discussion touches on technological impacts and market integrity, revealing the competitive dynamics of modern sportsbooks and the role of short sellers.

Laurie Santos, a Yale psychologist and host of The Happiness Lab, and Elie Hassenfeld, co-founder of GiveWell, dive into the transformative power of giving. They reveal that spending on others often brings more happiness than spending on ourselves. Listeners learn about impactful charities that use donations effectively, and how simplifying the act of giving can make it a habit. The conversation also touches on the psychology behind altruism and the ethical considerations in philanthropy, encouraging a thoughtful approach to charitable contributions.

Jeff Gordon, a recovering gambling addict, shares his gripping journey through the chaotic world of sports betting. He discusses the emotional toll and societal perceptions surrounding gambling addiction, highlighting the superficiality of the industry's responsible gaming initiatives. The conversation unveils the troubling rise of gambling issues, especially among young men, and the urgent need for consumer protections. Gordon also reflects on the psychological impact of losing VIP status and the complex interplay between identity and addiction in an increasingly digitized gambling landscape.

Lydia Jean Cott, a savvy producer known for her work on various podcast projects, dives into the shadowy world of sports betting as a 'mule.' She reveals the murky relationships between skilled gamblers and their mules, discussing the intricate challenges they face, from account restrictions to emotional turmoil. The podcast also touches on the psychological pressures of betting, the risks of identity theft, and the exploitative nature of the gambling industry, offering a fascinating glimpse into this high-stakes environment.

Ted Olson, a renowned constitutional lawyer and former US Solicitor General, reflects on his extraordinary legal career and impact on landmark Supreme Court cases. He shares insights from his early days arguing in court, revealing emotional and strategic challenges. Olson discusses the complex legal battle that led New Jersey to successfully overturn federal restrictions on sports betting. His stories highlight the intricate dynamics of federalism and offer a glimpse into the tenacity required to navigate critical legal disputes.