Trusted Voices: Starting Difficult Conversations About Underage Gambling Prevention

As a parent, I’ve learned that the most important conversations are often the hardest to start. Talking about peer pressure, mental health, or risky behaviors can feel uncomfortable—but that doesn’t make them any less necessary. Like all parents, I want my sons to grow up with strong values, the ability to think critically, and the confidence to say no when something doesn’t feel right.

One of those important conversations, especially in today’s world, is about gambling.

For many adults, gambling can be an engaging, social form of entertainment to enjoy responsibly. At the same time, I know it can be problematic for those who are unfortunately part of the small minority of adults who are unable to manage their play, and detrimental and prohibited for those who are too young. As legal sports betting becomes more accessible, proactive and informed conversations are more important than ever.

I'm often asked what we're doing to support problem gambling prevention efforts across our communities. At FanDuel, we feel strongly that raising awareness of these issues and promoting education is crucial so parents and other adults can equip young people in their lives with the right information.

These trusted adults—whether parents, guardians, teachers, coaches, or mentors—have a crucial role to play in helping to guide responsible decision-making and we want to ensure they have the resources to have these conversations.

That’s why I'm so proud of the work we've done with Randy and Anita, and of the resources we’ve built in partnership with the amazing team at EPIC Global Solutions to help trusted adults talk to the young people in their lives about the risks of underage gambling.

I first met Randy and Anita last year at FanDuel’s annual Play Well Day, a companywide event that promotes employee education and engagement around our commitment to responsible gaming. They had just joined FanDuel’s Responsible Gaming Ambassador team, which includes Craig Carton, to share their lived experience and stories of recovery. During our first conversation, we connected on something powerful: the need for resources they wish they’d had while navigating the challenges of problem gambling in their own family.

We talked about how critical it is for young people not only to see role models modeling responsible behavior, but also to have trusted adults who are willing to engage in open dialogue on challenging topics.

Randy Livingston, Anita Smith, FanDuel CEO Amy Howe and Responsible Gaming Ambassador Craig Carton at FanDuel's 2024 Play Well Day.

At the heart of Trusted Voices is a couple who bravely share their story of how gambling impacted their family. Through their powerful story of love and perseverance, Randy and Anita highlight not only the risks of underage gambling, but also the resilience of families who face it head-on. Their experience underscores how important it is to be aware of the warning signs, to ask the right questions, and to act early when something doesn’t feel right.

The Trusted Voices program isn’t just about facts and warnings—it’s about being a role model, promoting education and encouraging open lines of communication. It’s about reminding us that as adults, our words carry weight. And when we approach tough topics with openness and care, we create space for the young people we love to come to us with questions, concerns, or even mistakes.

This post marks the launch of the Trusted Voices blog —a new space where we’ll share insights, stories, and perspectives relating to underage gambling prevention. From individuals with lived experience to academic researchers, prevention advocates, clinicians, educators, and more, this forum will spotlight the voices that are shaping the conversation around youth prevention and safer play. There’s power in honest dialogue—and through these contributions, we hope to equip families, coaches and communities with the understanding and tools they need to make a difference.

Whether you’re a parent, guardian, teacher, coach, or mentor,  I encourage you to check out the resources and content available on this site. FanDuel is proud to support Trusted Voices and the important work Randy and Anita are leading to raise awareness and offer real tools to families. We believe conversations at home play an important role in prevention—and that trusted adults have a unique opportunity to guide young people toward safer choices.