The Chances We Take In Life- From Lawyer To Gambler To Pastor

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Today, I sit down with James W. Smith — a former lawyer, compulsive gambler, inmate, and now a retired pastor. Mr. Smith’s story is one of staggering loss, radical transformation, and deep faith. He walks us through the spiral of gambling addiction that cost him his marriage, his career, and nearly his life — and how a desperate bank robbery became the turning point that led him to Christ.

We explore what it means to face the consequences of your own decisions while still holding onto hope. Mr. Smith shares how his time in prison and a mandated psychiatric evaluation sparked a spiritual awakening that changed the course of his life. He went from contemplating suicide to preaching his first sermon the night before receiving a 15-year sentence. We also talk about his return to ministry, his battle with prostate cancer, and the major back surgery that tested his faith once again — and how God brought him through every trial.

Mr. Smith also discusses his books, Deal By Me: A Golden Opportunity Blown and Deal By Me: A Self-Evaluation, both filled with life lessons, biblical principles, and real talk for anyone facing failure, addiction, or shame.

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*Couple O' Nukes LLC and Mr. Whiskey are not licensed medical entities, nor do they take responsibility for any advice or information put forth by guests. Take all advice at your own risk.