September 15, 2025 • 21 mins
Mindful Play: Responsible Gaming in Casino
This week on #FilAmInFocus, we’re rolling the dice on a topic that matters: Responsible Gaming
Joining us is Carolene Layugan, Director of the Responsible Gaming Program at Caesars Entertainment. Carolene also serves as Vice President of the Board of Directors for the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling, and sits on the board of the Asian Community Development Council.
With a strong foundation in gaming operations and a deep commitment to community wellness, Carolene is leading the charge to foster safer, more informed gaming practices—not just within Caesars Palace, but across our broader Fil-Am and AAPI communities.
Presented by the Asian Community Development Council. Hosted by Edelweiss Solano.
This week on #FilAmInFocus, we’re rolling the dice on a topic that matters: Responsible Gaming
Joining us is Carolene Layugan, Director of the Responsible Gaming Program at Caesars Entertainment. Carolene also serves as Vice President of the Board of Directors for the Nevada Council on Problem Gambling, and sits on the board of the Asian Community Development Council.
With a strong foundation in gaming operations and a deep commitment to community wellness, Carolene is leading the charge to foster safer, more informed gaming practices—not just within Caesars Palace, but across our broader Fil-Am and AAPI communities.
Presented by the Asian Community Development Council. Hosted by Edelweiss Solano.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Muna's Ancient Community Development Council in both Philam and Focus
mondays of twelve million right here on h Helvy Radio.
Speaker 2 (00:13):
Them have with Pasa in Lahad and welcome to phil
in Focus brought to you by the Asian Community Development
Council or ACBC. Here we explore the important issues, challenges
and opportunities impacting Filipino Americans as well as the wider
Asian American and Pacific Islander community. Acopo a host Ado
(00:35):
Vicelano and I am happy to welcome you to today's conversation.
So mayon, we will be diving into a critical and
often overlook topic, responsible gaming, with a very special guest.
So joining us is Karenine Le Jugan, the director of
Responsible Gaming Program at Caesar's Entertainment. Caroline also serves as
(00:59):
a Vice president of the Board of Directors for the
Nevada Council on Program Problem Gampling and as a board
member at the Asian Community Development Council. So with deep
experience in both gaming operations and community wellness, karenin plays
a key role in promoting a safe and informed gaming environment.
(01:20):
Touch us with Caesar's Enter Caesar's Ballace, but across our
wider community. So again, thank you Karenen for being here.
Speaker 1 (01:30):
Thank you Guyce for having me. I'm excited about this.
I'm excited interviewing you. But let's start with your role.
You're the director of.
Speaker 2 (01:40):
Responsible Gaming at Caesar's Entertainment.
Speaker 1 (01:43):
Yes, i am. You know, I've been with the company
now for twenty five years, and my majority of my
tenure there has been assisting with ensuring that we have
a responsible gaming program, ensuring that we you know, we
ensure that our standards are implemented across the company, which
includes fifty five properties across the US, one in Canada
(02:06):
it's called Caesars Windsor, and also on our online gaming
platforms as well.
Speaker 2 (02:11):
Wow, it's so amazing, like huge, huge responsibility.
Speaker 1 (02:15):
It sure is, But you mentioned that, so your role.
Speaker 2 (02:18):
Is all about also balance is not making sure that
there's a balance of xcitement as well as a commitment
to ensuring the guests have an experience, yes, and also
having a responsibility for the community.
Speaker 1 (02:33):
We sure do. We want every visitor that comes to
a Caesar's property, which includes our famous world you know,
worldwide properties here in Las Vegas, the opportunity to visit us.
We want them to enjoy. Our hospitality amenities are you know,
chef inspired, celebrity restaurants, the shows you know we have
(02:55):
Kelly Clarkson happening at the Coliseum at Caesars Palace, we
have shows over a planet Hollywood. And our business also
is includes entertainment, which is gambling. So we offer a
wide array of hospitality amenities. Gambling is one of.
Speaker 2 (03:13):
Them, and gambling is also that's fascinating and gambling is
also a common social activity among the A NHBI communities.
But it can also bring some risk. So that's why
your company is promoting responsible gaming and awareness. So it's
important to really help everyone to do play safe and
(03:34):
support if needed. So from a broader perspective, how does
Sezars approach responsible gaming as part of its mission.
Speaker 1 (03:42):
Well, first of all, it has to start with training
with our team members. So one of our initiatives is
to ensure that all team members who are employed by
Caesars Entertainment receives responsible gaining education and awareness training. What
is responsible gaming, what is problem gambling and how do
we approach it. If we identify that one of our
(04:03):
customers may be having an issue, right, we don't want
our team members to sweep a problem under the rug.
We want them to address it. So through training, we
empower them to report commons or statements that are made
by our customers, whether it be on person or online
through chat or text.
Speaker 2 (04:21):
I see, and it's actually Responsible Gaming Education month.
Speaker 1 (04:26):
Yes, it is. The entire month of September is Responsible
Gaming Education Month. We have our gaming operator friends throughout
the country that talks about, you know, all their responsible
gaming work that they do and the training that they
also provide to their team members.
Speaker 2 (04:42):
So it's a perfect time also to talk about it
to raise awareness and in practice you mentioned earlier is
making sure you prepare your staff for for providing information
as being the will act well to the to your customers. Yes,
and can you tell more about the initiatives that Caesars
(05:05):
has implemented to foster responsible gaming?
Speaker 1 (05:08):
Yeah? Sure. So you know, when our customer, when our
team members are on the gaming floor, you know, we
want to provide the gold standard customer service. But when
it comes down to gambling and we hear a customer
make a statement or comment like you know, I'm gambling
my mortgage money away or my wife, you know it's
going to be upset at me, or you know, a
(05:28):
family member will be upset at me because I spend
all our money so we can't buy food or we
can't buy gas for the car. Those are triggering statements
that our team members are listening for, and if they
hear a statement or comment that concerns them, they will
report it to their supervisor. Oh wow, yeah, so they'll
report it to their supervisor. And we have skilled supervisors
(05:51):
and managers who we refer to as responsible gaming ambassadors,
and that responsible gaming ambassador will then have a conversation
with that one individual or that one guest or that
family friend or that family member.
Speaker 2 (06:04):
Oh that's excellent to know. So you're providing your team
members to have that, giving them tools to be able
to have to identify those signs as well as with
the guests, you're providing them tools. Do will have more
maybe informed.
Speaker 1 (06:21):
Choices exactly exactly informed choices, such as setting a budget
when you gamble, you know, setting a time limit at
the casino or online, setting a deposit limit online as well.
You know, online gamling has become more prevalent. It's become
more popular amongst the you know, younger generation because you know,
(06:41):
your mobile phone is everything today, right, and there's so
many sports matting applications that people can access throughout the country.
You know, they need to be aware of the responsible
gaming tools that are available to them. We want them
to enjoy those online gamling products, but if they identify
with having a problem, what powers them to set those
(07:01):
card rolls up for them through online gambling.
Speaker 2 (07:04):
And having those bad boundaries and exactly. It's interesting that
you mentioned that it's we have a growing number with
a problem with the youth, because of course, I mean
there's a stereotype that mostly the retired exactly community will
be like more on the gambling, but there is also
growing uh with the with increases with the youth. And
(07:26):
you mentioned earlier is that there are some science but
for our listeners who are less familiar, what are the
other deltaing science tool that someone may be struggling.
Speaker 1 (07:38):
With gambling finances? So that's a big, you know, big situation.
You know, are they exceeding their limit when they're withdrawing
money from you know the ATMs you know on the
casino floor, right, you know, the capability to have a
open communication with your friend or your spouse about your gambling,
(08:01):
lying about where you are, you know, where are you
after hours? You know, w are you at work? You know,
And some people will say, you know, they were at
some location when actually there were at you know, the casinos. Now,
casino gambling is not bad, but when someone you know
does have a problem with it, you know, we don't
want them to be on our on our property, we
(08:22):
don't want them to be at any gaming operation. So
those are some of the signs, but particularly when they're
making comments or statements, and it may also include a
suicidal statement. You know, I'm gonna, you know, hurt myself
because now I don't I've you know, gambled away all
my money. I don't have any money. Those are so
important because suicide is you know, one of those situations
(08:47):
where a problem gambler, it's an idealistic situation. A lot
of times they see their only way out, you know,
through self harm, and we don't want that to ever happen.
Speaker 2 (08:59):
It's unfortunately, and I'm glad we're having this conversation because
it's really tough for someone to recognize those signs, especially
on yourself or even on your loved one. So that's
why having this having this conversation as well as having
this month being responsible gaming education is very vital through
(09:22):
ensure that our community is in formed. So if for
our listeners, if you know anyone who may be struggling,
reach out, help them, reach out for support, and and
that I believe can make all the difference.
Speaker 1 (09:36):
Sure can, yes.
Speaker 2 (09:37):
And so if someone notices those signs in themselves or
someone they care about, what resources are available that either
czars or more broadly have.
Speaker 1 (09:50):
I would recommend if you you know, identify with having
a gambling problem or your family member or friend that
you're concerned about for help resources, call the what eight
hundred gambler number. It's a national number and it'll direct
you to help resources anywhere in the country and you
will be connected with your local treatment providers, problem gambling counselors,
(10:18):
gambling anonym you know, a non gambler's anonymous like alcohol anonymous.
There are groups throughout the country that have this fellowship
in these meetings for people with problem gambling. Another great
program is the Gamanon program for family and friends of
the problem gambler. But you know, always start with contacting
one eight hundred gambler.
Speaker 2 (10:39):
I see, and then also beyond cesars like the organization
Nevada Council Problem Gambling. It provides support and helplines.
Speaker 1 (10:50):
Sure it sure does. Yes, Nevada Council on Problem Gambling
is another great resource here in Nevada. The National Council
on Problem Gambling is another great resource for people that
want to learn more about problem gambling. You know, the
signs and the symptoms and the you know, helpline numbers
throughout the country and where to get help.
Speaker 2 (11:10):
Are there also treatment options for those who are struggling.
Speaker 1 (11:14):
Yes, there are treatment options. There are counselors that are
readily available, you know, to have that counseling session. There's
also some some places offer in treatment facilities or outpatient
treatment as well.
Speaker 2 (11:29):
I see, and then that's czars. If you see that
the guests, you direct them towards those resources.
Speaker 1 (11:34):
Yes, our Responsible Gaming Ambassadors will direct those individuals to
the helpline number and then provide the local help resources
that are available.
Speaker 2 (11:43):
So it's amazing to know, yes, because not everybody knows
about it that it's available, especially it's one of your initiatives.
That's z RS. That's excellent to know. And then again
the key is ready to reach out.
Speaker 1 (11:58):
Reach out for help. Yes, please these Problem gambling is
a diagnosable mental illness. Like any health issue, problem gambling
is one of them diagnosable diagnosable and is stated in
the DSM five. So please reach out for help. We
want to break the stigma about problem gambling or being
(12:20):
a problem gambler, you know, we want to normalize the
conversation about problem gambling. A lot of you know, people,
especially in the Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander community,
they don't want to talk about problem gaming. It's you know,
very shameful for themselves and then to the family. And
we want to make sure that this stigma is broken.
(12:41):
We don't want them to be labeled as a degenerate.
That's the worst thing you can ever, you know, say
to someone that you are a degenerate gambler.
Speaker 2 (12:49):
I mean, yeah, yeah, and yeah, because there's a shame
that is exactly yeah, connected to being a gambler or
even let's say, in other like being alcoholic or anything.
So it's really good to have this conversation and you
clearly stated it earlier. Help is available, so reach out
(13:11):
to available resources. And it sounds like really education and
community engagement are the key pieces to solving or taking
out the stigma.
Speaker 1 (13:23):
Exactly, which is why I'm here and happy to be here,
you know, to share this information with our community, right
and to talk about it, and to share that there
is help, there is hope. You know, never say there
you know, no one can help me, because there is
help for people with problem gambling.
Speaker 2 (13:40):
Oh I love what you said. There is help and
there is hope. Oh that's amazing. Yes, there is chill.
That's something that we should tweet about. And there is hope.
But then, like what you said, that community awareness is
vital really in reducing that stigma and encourages also an
(14:04):
early intervention.
Speaker 1 (14:06):
Yes, it sure does, and that's where we you know,
the company, our company comes in as far as the
preventive measures. You know, before you even gamble, set a budget,
set a time limit, ensure that you're visiting a casino
for entertainment purposes, you know, have fun, go there to socialize,
to meet people, watch the show, enjoy the restaurants, you know,
(14:29):
if you're able to do that. But yeah, if you're
going to the casino to chase your losses or if
you're depressed and the casino's like one of the places
that you like to go. We don't encourage that by
any means. You know, talk to someone, talk to someone,
talk to someone and get help.
Speaker 2 (14:47):
And then I mean casinos and gambling is also meant
to be a fun activity. So I mean, like what
you said, set limits, because I remember, if I play
the mach twenty dollars, that's it. Even if I win,
I set the boundary, like, I'm okay. If I win
(15:08):
at the five dollars, that's it. But if I lose, okay,
I've already spent twenty dollars.
Speaker 1 (15:14):
I'm okay, Yes, yes, yes, set set of budget and advice.
I just want to say, not everyone is a problem gambler.
According to studies, one to two percent of the adult
population here in the United States, you know, identify with
a gambling problem. So ninety percent of the population gamble
with no issues. It's just the one to two percent.
Speaker 2 (15:36):
I see, Okay, And then where shift you shifted towards
empowerment power empowerment earlier? So aside from setting limits, what
other advice can you give our community and also to
be responsible in gambling?
Speaker 1 (15:55):
Yeah, you know, you know advice that I would I
would always share with you know, my family and my
friends is gambling is a form of entertainment, you know,
you know, enjoy the atmosphere, Enjoy you know, watching people
when you go there. Enjoy the new machines that are
being created by a lot of the gaming manufacturers. I
(16:16):
mean a lot of them are fun. But do it
within limits. Always set a budget, always, you know, set
a limit, you know, to how long you're going to
be at the casino. You know how often you're going
to be there. Always, like anything else, set your guard
with guardrails in and always, you know, just be mindful
about your play, mindful about the time you spend at
(16:38):
the casinos.
Speaker 2 (16:39):
Just be mindful. Yes, have fun, but be mindful. And
before you wrap up, I mean twenty five years when Caesars,
I last.
Speaker 1 (16:50):
Twenty five years, it's amazing, it's amazing. You know, I've
learned a lot, I've grown professionally a lot. My twenty
five years tenure at Caesars Entertainment been a great company
for me. I do love what you know, job that
I work with my team members, people in the community
about responsible gaming. You know, I've been personally involved with
(17:14):
family members who have experienced problem gambling, and I'm happy
to you know, share the resources with them as well.
And I've seen a lot of people here in Las
Vegas relocate from Hawaii, where I'm originally from, only to
get caught up, you know, in this situation with problem
gambling and having to leave because they can't, you know,
be in a community where gambling is provided.
Speaker 2 (17:38):
But can you share a success story that maybe a
time when responsible education made a meaningful impact?
Speaker 1 (17:47):
I would say, you know, at Users Entertainment, we conduct
employee surveys annually, and whenever we conduct these employee surveys,
I am always proud to see that that Caesar's promoting
responsible gaming receives the highest rating amongst our team members.
(18:07):
And you know that tells me they trust the company
to ensure that the customers that are visiting our properties
are doing so for the right reason, which is to
have fun. And you know, my success story is my
team members, you know, having the power or being empowered
to say something if they feel a customer of theirs,
(18:31):
you know, you know, are in trouble. Yes, so that's
my story. I mean we you know, eighteen thousand team
members took the survey this year. It's called all In
We Win Survey and eighty six percent of our team
members identified that we continuously promote responsible gaming at our company.
Speaker 2 (18:51):
And it's excellent, truly inspiring. I mean, you're not only
empowering you know, our committee members to play responsibly, but
also within your our organization, and you're ensuring that the
team members are really empowered to speak up when they
see something they have to say something. Yes, and then
make sure the guest is safe.
Speaker 1 (19:11):
Yes, make sure the guest is there for one reason,
entertainment purposes. If you feel that there's a concern, team
members you know, are empowered to again let their supervisors know. Okay,
so that's my success story and I'm going to continue
with the story and narrative as long as i'm you know,
empowered to do so as well.
Speaker 2 (19:30):
Yes, well, thank you for sharing your success story. And
I'm sure your team members are very lucky to have
you as a boss supporting them.
Speaker 1 (19:41):
Yeah, and you thank you so much.
Speaker 2 (19:43):
Advice for having me any final final advice to any Yeah,
I do.
Speaker 1 (19:49):
I always want to emphasize and remind people again there's
help and hope, you know for problem gambers. You know,
if you're if you a friend or a family member,
is experience and seeing a gambling problem, you please contact
one eight hundred Gambler that's the national Problem Gambling Helpline
number for help resources. I mean, come visit our properties,
(20:10):
make sure you're having fun, but if there's an issue,
you know, say something, our team members will gladly provide
you with the help resources available.
Speaker 2 (20:18):
Excellent. Well, thank you Caroline for all the work that
you do and your insights today as well as you
know supporting a CDC.
Speaker 1 (20:25):
Thank you so much, my pleasure and you know, I
just want to remind everyone it's Responsible Gaming Education month,
so look out for those help resources and happy to
be here everyone. Please take care.
Speaker 2 (20:36):
All right and to our filam in focus listeners remember
gaming should always be fun and say so. If you
or someone you know may be struggling, help is available
and you're not alone. As Caroline said, if there is help,
there is hope. So thank you for tuning in to
fill them in focus brought to you by the Asian
Committee Development Council APO in your host a device Solano,
(20:59):
stay inform and stay engaged. So for more information about
ac DC, please visit our website at ac dcanvy dot
org and follow us on our social media channels for
updates on future events, programs, and podcast episodes about I
Mean so soon in the episode Haven't Got Somebody
Muna's Ancient Community Development Council in both Philam and Focus
mondays of twelve million right here on h Helvy Radio.
Speaker 2 (00:13):
Them have with Pasa in Lahad and welcome to phil
in Focus brought to you by the Asian Community Development
Council or ACBC. Here we explore the important issues, challenges
and opportunities impacting Filipino Americans as well as the wider
Asian American and Pacific Islander community. Acopo a host Ado
(00:35):
Vicelano and I am happy to welcome you to today's conversation.
So mayon, we will be diving into a critical and
often overlook topic, responsible gaming, with a very special guest.
So joining us is Karenine Le Jugan, the director of
Responsible Gaming Program at Caesar's Entertainment. Caroline also serves as
(00:59):
a Vice president of the Board of Directors for the
Nevada Council on Program Problem Gampling and as a board
member at the Asian Community Development Council. So with deep
experience in both gaming operations and community wellness, karenin plays
a key role in promoting a safe and informed gaming environment.
(01:20):
Touch us with Caesar's Enter Caesar's Ballace, but across our
wider community. So again, thank you Karenen for being here.
Speaker 1 (01:30):
Thank you Guyce for having me. I'm excited about this.
I'm excited interviewing you. But let's start with your role.
You're the director of.
Speaker 2 (01:40):
Responsible Gaming at Caesar's Entertainment.
Speaker 1 (01:43):
Yes, i am. You know, I've been with the company
now for twenty five years, and my majority of my
tenure there has been assisting with ensuring that we have
a responsible gaming program, ensuring that we you know, we
ensure that our standards are implemented across the company, which
includes fifty five properties across the US, one in Canada
(02:06):
it's called Caesars Windsor, and also on our online gaming
platforms as well.
Speaker 2 (02:11):
Wow, it's so amazing, like huge, huge responsibility.
Speaker 1 (02:15):
It sure is, But you mentioned that, so your role.
Speaker 2 (02:18):
Is all about also balance is not making sure that
there's a balance of xcitement as well as a commitment
to ensuring the guests have an experience, yes, and also
having a responsibility for the community.
Speaker 1 (02:33):
We sure do. We want every visitor that comes to
a Caesar's property, which includes our famous world you know,
worldwide properties here in Las Vegas, the opportunity to visit us.
We want them to enjoy. Our hospitality amenities are you know,
chef inspired, celebrity restaurants, the shows you know we have
(02:55):
Kelly Clarkson happening at the Coliseum at Caesars Palace, we
have shows over a planet Hollywood. And our business also
is includes entertainment, which is gambling. So we offer a
wide array of hospitality amenities. Gambling is one of.
Speaker 2 (03:13):
Them, and gambling is also that's fascinating and gambling is
also a common social activity among the A NHBI communities.
But it can also bring some risk. So that's why
your company is promoting responsible gaming and awareness. So it's
important to really help everyone to do play safe and
(03:34):
support if needed. So from a broader perspective, how does
Sezars approach responsible gaming as part of its mission.
Speaker 1 (03:42):
Well, first of all, it has to start with training
with our team members. So one of our initiatives is
to ensure that all team members who are employed by
Caesars Entertainment receives responsible gaining education and awareness training. What
is responsible gaming, what is problem gambling and how do
we approach it. If we identify that one of our
(04:03):
customers may be having an issue, right, we don't want
our team members to sweep a problem under the rug.
We want them to address it. So through training, we
empower them to report commons or statements that are made
by our customers, whether it be on person or online
through chat or text.
Speaker 2 (04:21):
I see, and it's actually Responsible Gaming Education month.
Speaker 1 (04:26):
Yes, it is. The entire month of September is Responsible
Gaming Education Month. We have our gaming operator friends throughout
the country that talks about, you know, all their responsible
gaming work that they do and the training that they
also provide to their team members.
Speaker 2 (04:42):
So it's a perfect time also to talk about it
to raise awareness and in practice you mentioned earlier is
making sure you prepare your staff for for providing information
as being the will act well to the to your customers. Yes,
and can you tell more about the initiatives that Caesars
(05:05):
has implemented to foster responsible gaming?
Speaker 1 (05:08):
Yeah? Sure. So you know, when our customer, when our
team members are on the gaming floor, you know, we
want to provide the gold standard customer service. But when
it comes down to gambling and we hear a customer
make a statement or comment like you know, I'm gambling
my mortgage money away or my wife, you know it's
going to be upset at me, or you know, a
(05:28):
family member will be upset at me because I spend
all our money so we can't buy food or we
can't buy gas for the car. Those are triggering statements
that our team members are listening for, and if they
hear a statement or comment that concerns them, they will
report it to their supervisor. Oh wow, yeah, so they'll
report it to their supervisor. And we have skilled supervisors
(05:51):
and managers who we refer to as responsible gaming ambassadors,
and that responsible gaming ambassador will then have a conversation
with that one individual or that one guest or that
family friend or that family member.
Speaker 2 (06:04):
Oh that's excellent to know. So you're providing your team
members to have that, giving them tools to be able
to have to identify those signs as well as with
the guests, you're providing them tools. Do will have more
maybe informed.
Speaker 1 (06:21):
Choices exactly exactly informed choices, such as setting a budget
when you gamble, you know, setting a time limit at
the casino or online, setting a deposit limit online as well.
You know, online gamling has become more prevalent. It's become
more popular amongst the you know, younger generation because you know,
(06:41):
your mobile phone is everything today, right, and there's so
many sports matting applications that people can access throughout the country.
You know, they need to be aware of the responsible
gaming tools that are available to them. We want them
to enjoy those online gamling products, but if they identify
with having a problem, what powers them to set those
(07:01):
card rolls up for them through online gambling.
Speaker 2 (07:04):
And having those bad boundaries and exactly. It's interesting that
you mentioned that it's we have a growing number with
a problem with the youth, because of course, I mean
there's a stereotype that mostly the retired exactly community will
be like more on the gambling, but there is also
growing uh with the with increases with the youth. And
(07:26):
you mentioned earlier is that there are some science but
for our listeners who are less familiar, what are the
other deltaing science tool that someone may be struggling.
Speaker 1 (07:38):
With gambling finances? So that's a big, you know, big situation.
You know, are they exceeding their limit when they're withdrawing
money from you know the ATMs you know on the
casino floor, right, you know, the capability to have a
open communication with your friend or your spouse about your gambling,
(08:01):
lying about where you are, you know, where are you
after hours? You know, w are you at work? You know,
And some people will say, you know, they were at
some location when actually there were at you know, the casinos. Now,
casino gambling is not bad, but when someone you know
does have a problem with it, you know, we don't
want them to be on our on our property, we
(08:22):
don't want them to be at any gaming operation. So
those are some of the signs, but particularly when they're
making comments or statements, and it may also include a
suicidal statement. You know, I'm gonna, you know, hurt myself
because now I don't I've you know, gambled away all
my money. I don't have any money. Those are so
important because suicide is you know, one of those situations
(08:47):
where a problem gambler, it's an idealistic situation. A lot
of times they see their only way out, you know,
through self harm, and we don't want that to ever happen.
Speaker 2 (08:59):
It's unfortunately, and I'm glad we're having this conversation because
it's really tough for someone to recognize those signs, especially
on yourself or even on your loved one. So that's
why having this having this conversation as well as having
this month being responsible gaming education is very vital through
(09:22):
ensure that our community is in formed. So if for
our listeners, if you know anyone who may be struggling,
reach out, help them, reach out for support, and and
that I believe can make all the difference.
Speaker 1 (09:36):
Sure can, yes.
Speaker 2 (09:37):
And so if someone notices those signs in themselves or
someone they care about, what resources are available that either
czars or more broadly have.
Speaker 1 (09:50):
I would recommend if you you know, identify with having
a gambling problem or your family member or friend that
you're concerned about for help resources, call the what eight
hundred gambler number. It's a national number and it'll direct
you to help resources anywhere in the country and you
will be connected with your local treatment providers, problem gambling counselors,
(10:18):
gambling anonym you know, a non gambler's anonymous like alcohol anonymous.
There are groups throughout the country that have this fellowship
in these meetings for people with problem gambling. Another great
program is the Gamanon program for family and friends of
the problem gambler. But you know, always start with contacting
one eight hundred gambler.
Speaker 2 (10:39):
I see, and then also beyond cesars like the organization
Nevada Council Problem Gambling. It provides support and helplines.
Speaker 1 (10:50):
Sure it sure does. Yes, Nevada Council on Problem Gambling
is another great resource here in Nevada. The National Council
on Problem Gambling is another great resource for people that
want to learn more about problem gambling. You know, the
signs and the symptoms and the you know, helpline numbers
throughout the country and where to get help.
Speaker 2 (11:10):
Are there also treatment options for those who are struggling.
Speaker 1 (11:14):
Yes, there are treatment options. There are counselors that are
readily available, you know, to have that counseling session. There's
also some some places offer in treatment facilities or outpatient
treatment as well.
Speaker 2 (11:29):
I see, and then that's czars. If you see that
the guests, you direct them towards those resources.
Speaker 1 (11:34):
Yes, our Responsible Gaming Ambassadors will direct those individuals to
the helpline number and then provide the local help resources
that are available.
Speaker 2 (11:43):
So it's amazing to know, yes, because not everybody knows
about it that it's available, especially it's one of your initiatives.
That's z RS. That's excellent to know. And then again
the key is ready to reach out.
Speaker 1 (11:58):
Reach out for help. Yes, please these Problem gambling is
a diagnosable mental illness. Like any health issue, problem gambling
is one of them diagnosable diagnosable and is stated in
the DSM five. So please reach out for help. We
want to break the stigma about problem gambling or being
(12:20):
a problem gambler, you know, we want to normalize the
conversation about problem gambling. A lot of you know, people,
especially in the Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander community,
they don't want to talk about problem gaming. It's you know,
very shameful for themselves and then to the family. And
we want to make sure that this stigma is broken.
(12:41):
We don't want them to be labeled as a degenerate.
That's the worst thing you can ever, you know, say
to someone that you are a degenerate gambler.
Speaker 2 (12:49):
I mean, yeah, yeah, and yeah, because there's a shame
that is exactly yeah, connected to being a gambler or
even let's say, in other like being alcoholic or anything.
So it's really good to have this conversation and you
clearly stated it earlier. Help is available, so reach out
(13:11):
to available resources. And it sounds like really education and
community engagement are the key pieces to solving or taking
out the stigma.
Speaker 1 (13:23):
Exactly, which is why I'm here and happy to be here,
you know, to share this information with our community, right
and to talk about it, and to share that there
is help, there is hope. You know, never say there
you know, no one can help me, because there is
help for people with problem gambling.
Speaker 2 (13:40):
Oh I love what you said. There is help and
there is hope. Oh that's amazing. Yes, there is chill.
That's something that we should tweet about. And there is hope.
But then, like what you said, that community awareness is
vital really in reducing that stigma and encourages also an
(14:04):
early intervention.
Speaker 1 (14:06):
Yes, it sure does, and that's where we you know,
the company, our company comes in as far as the
preventive measures. You know, before you even gamble, set a budget,
set a time limit, ensure that you're visiting a casino
for entertainment purposes, you know, have fun, go there to socialize,
to meet people, watch the show, enjoy the restaurants, you know,
(14:29):
if you're able to do that. But yeah, if you're
going to the casino to chase your losses or if
you're depressed and the casino's like one of the places
that you like to go. We don't encourage that by
any means. You know, talk to someone, talk to someone,
talk to someone and get help.
Speaker 2 (14:47):
And then I mean casinos and gambling is also meant
to be a fun activity. So I mean, like what
you said, set limits, because I remember, if I play
the mach twenty dollars, that's it. Even if I win,
I set the boundary, like, I'm okay. If I win
(15:08):
at the five dollars, that's it. But if I lose, okay,
I've already spent twenty dollars.
Speaker 1 (15:14):
I'm okay, Yes, yes, yes, set set of budget and advice.
I just want to say, not everyone is a problem gambler.
According to studies, one to two percent of the adult
population here in the United States, you know, identify with
a gambling problem. So ninety percent of the population gamble
with no issues. It's just the one to two percent.
Speaker 2 (15:36):
I see, Okay, And then where shift you shifted towards
empowerment power empowerment earlier? So aside from setting limits, what
other advice can you give our community and also to
be responsible in gambling?
Speaker 1 (15:55):
Yeah, you know, you know advice that I would I
would always share with you know, my family and my
friends is gambling is a form of entertainment, you know,
you know, enjoy the atmosphere, Enjoy you know, watching people
when you go there. Enjoy the new machines that are
being created by a lot of the gaming manufacturers. I
(16:16):
mean a lot of them are fun. But do it
within limits. Always set a budget, always, you know, set
a limit, you know, to how long you're going to
be at the casino. You know how often you're going
to be there. Always, like anything else, set your guard
with guardrails in and always, you know, just be mindful
about your play, mindful about the time you spend at
(16:38):
the casinos.
Speaker 2 (16:39):
Just be mindful. Yes, have fun, but be mindful. And
before you wrap up, I mean twenty five years when Caesars,
I last.
Speaker 1 (16:50):
Twenty five years, it's amazing, it's amazing. You know, I've
learned a lot, I've grown professionally a lot. My twenty
five years tenure at Caesars Entertainment been a great company
for me. I do love what you know, job that
I work with my team members, people in the community
about responsible gaming. You know, I've been personally involved with
(17:14):
family members who have experienced problem gambling, and I'm happy
to you know, share the resources with them as well.
And I've seen a lot of people here in Las
Vegas relocate from Hawaii, where I'm originally from, only to
get caught up, you know, in this situation with problem
gambling and having to leave because they can't, you know,
be in a community where gambling is provided.
Speaker 2 (17:38):
But can you share a success story that maybe a
time when responsible education made a meaningful impact?
Speaker 1 (17:47):
I would say, you know, at Users Entertainment, we conduct
employee surveys annually, and whenever we conduct these employee surveys,
I am always proud to see that that Caesar's promoting
responsible gaming receives the highest rating amongst our team members.
(18:07):
And you know that tells me they trust the company
to ensure that the customers that are visiting our properties
are doing so for the right reason, which is to
have fun. And you know, my success story is my
team members, you know, having the power or being empowered
to say something if they feel a customer of theirs,
(18:31):
you know, you know, are in trouble. Yes, so that's
my story. I mean we you know, eighteen thousand team
members took the survey this year. It's called all In
We Win Survey and eighty six percent of our team
members identified that we continuously promote responsible gaming at our company.
Speaker 2 (18:51):
And it's excellent, truly inspiring. I mean, you're not only
empowering you know, our committee members to play responsibly, but
also within your our organization, and you're ensuring that the
team members are really empowered to speak up when they
see something they have to say something. Yes, and then
make sure the guest is safe.
Speaker 1 (19:11):
Yes, make sure the guest is there for one reason,
entertainment purposes. If you feel that there's a concern, team
members you know, are empowered to again let their supervisors know. Okay,
so that's my success story and I'm going to continue
with the story and narrative as long as i'm you know,
empowered to do so as well.
Speaker 2 (19:30):
Yes, well, thank you for sharing your success story. And
I'm sure your team members are very lucky to have
you as a boss supporting them.
Speaker 1 (19:41):
Yeah, and you thank you so much.
Speaker 2 (19:43):
Advice for having me any final final advice to any Yeah,
I do.
Speaker 1 (19:49):
I always want to emphasize and remind people again there's
help and hope, you know for problem gambers. You know,
if you're if you a friend or a family member,
is experience and seeing a gambling problem, you please contact
one eight hundred Gambler that's the national Problem Gambling Helpline
number for help resources. I mean, come visit our properties,
(20:10):
make sure you're having fun, but if there's an issue,
you know, say something, our team members will gladly provide
you with the help resources available.
Speaker 2 (20:18):
Excellent. Well, thank you Caroline for all the work that
you do and your insights today as well as you
know supporting a CDC.
Speaker 1 (20:25):
Thank you so much, my pleasure and you know, I
just want to remind everyone it's Responsible Gaming Education month,
so look out for those help resources and happy to
be here everyone. Please take care.
Speaker 2 (20:36):
All right and to our filam in focus listeners remember
gaming should always be fun and say so. If you
or someone you know may be struggling, help is available
and you're not alone. As Caroline said, if there is help,
there is hope. So thank you for tuning in to
fill them in focus brought to you by the Asian
Committee Development Council APO in your host a device Solano,
(20:59):
stay inform and stay engaged. So for more information about
ac DC, please visit our website at ac dcanvy dot
org and follow us on our social media channels for
updates on future events, programs, and podcast episodes about I
Mean so soon in the episode Haven't Got Somebody
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