As the legal landscape for sports betting continues to evolve across the U.S., so too does the need for responsible gaming education. FanDuel, a leading force in online gaming, has taken a proactive step to address this with the launch of “Trusted Voices: Conversations About Betting.” This new initiative is designed to equip parents, guardians, coaches, and other trusted adults with the resources necessary to discuss the risks of gambling with young people in a meaningful and informed way.
At the heart of this program are former NBA player Randy Livingston and his wife, Anita Smith, both of whom bring a deeply personal and impactful perspective. Livingston’s journey, from a star basketball prospect to a professional athlete, was complicated by a battle with problem gambling—a struggle that many can relate to but few are willing to openly discuss. Now, alongside Smith, Livingston is using his story as a cautionary tale and a source of guidance for families who may be facing similar challenges.
The “Trusted Voices” program isn’t just a series of cautionary tales, though. It’s a comprehensive educational platform aimed at fostering open conversations between adults and youth about the realities of gambling. The initiative goes beyond simply warning of the risks; it emphasizes the importance of recognizing warning signs and understanding how adults can model responsible behavior when engaging in legal betting activities. By normalizing these discussions, FanDuel and its partners hope to make it easier for families to address these issues before they become problems.
This is a notable shift in how gambling companies are approaching their role in the public sphere. Historically, the focus has been on providing entertainment and managing regulatory compliance. However, as FanDuel’s new initiative shows, companies are increasingly taking on the responsibility of educating their users—not just about the mechanics of betting, but also about the social and personal risks that come with it.
The launch of “Trusted Voices” also reflects a broader trend of incorporating mental health and wellness into the conversation about gambling. By partnering with organizations like EPIC Global Solutions, FanDuel has ensured that the program is not only about preventing harm but also providing support for those who may already be struggling. The resources available through ConversationsAboutBetting.com are designed to offer practical advice, from how to approach gambling discussions to what to do if a problem is identified.
The expansion of FanDuel’s partnership with Kindbridge Behavioral Health further solidifies this commitment. By offering individuals who self-exclude from their platform access to mental health assessments and support services, FanDuel is taking tangible steps to address problem gambling beyond just offering tools for prevention. This is a significant move that underscores the company’s recognition of the mental health challenges tied to gambling.
FanDuel’s efforts to raise the standard for responsible gambling, particularly by engaging families, set a new benchmark for the industry. In a time where sports betting is becoming more accessible, particularly to younger audiences through digital platforms, having resources that encourage informed conversations is critical.
“Trusted Voices: Conversations About Betting” is not just an educational tool—it’s a bridge between generations, helping parents and guardians address what can often be a sensitive topic with their children. As the program grows, and with more content to be added in the coming months, it will likely serve as a valuable resource not just for FanDuel users, but for the gambling community at large. The real impact will be felt in homes across the country, where tough conversations about betting and responsibility can now be approached with the right information and support.
As FanDuel continues to expand its responsible gambling initiatives, it’s clear the company is taking a leadership role in ensuring that the future of gambling includes not just entertainment, but a mindful and socially responsible approach to how we engage with betting.
