2026 Conversations in Problem Gambling Conference

Jody Bechtold, LCSW, ICGC-II, BACC, IGDC, CGT is a highly regarded gambling addiction expert working extensively across the globe with individuals, organizations, and associations. She is the CEO of The Better Institute, a group practice located in Pittsburgh. She is the co-author of The Gambling Disorder Treatment Handbook: A Guide for Mental Health Professionals (2021) and 2 chapters in the Social Work Desk Reference v 4 on Gambling and Gaming Disorders, published in 2022. She serves on the board for the International Gambling Counselor Certification Board (IGCCB). Jody holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Pittsburgh’s School of Social Work and has several certifications (ICGC-II, IGDC, BACC, CGT) with the International Gambling Counselor Certification Board. When Jody isn’t working, you can find her providing pet therapy with her dog, Hanna, and supporting her husband’s business, Pittsburgh Guitars. Please email jody@betterinstitute.com or visit www.BetterInstitute.com to contact Jody Bechtold, LCSW, ICGC-II, BACC, IGDC, CGT.

Joshua Grubbs, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor at the University of New Mexico and an investigator at the Center on Alcohol, Substance use, And Addictions, where he studies compulsive sexual behavior disorder, gambling disorder, and personality traits. He is especially interested in the social construction of addiction and understanding what leads people feel out of control in their behavior. More simply, he studies how people come to think of themselves as having a behavioral addiction and why people might arrive at the conclusion that they have a behavioral addiction.   With over 175 peer-reviewed scientific publications to his name, his work provides a foundational understanding of how emerging platforms—including mobile sports betting, internet gambling, and digital gaming—intersect with behavioral addiction and mental health. His expertise is frequently sought in high-stakes legal and regulatory matters, where he has provided extensive expert witness testimony and consultation on cases involving industry practices, state statutes, and the clinical nuances of compulsive behaviors. By bridging the gap between rigorous longitudinal research and the practical realities of the modern wagering environment, he offers an evidence-based perspective on the risk factors, diagnostic criteria, and societal impacts of gambling in the 21st century.

Adam Lyons, IGRS, is a compulsive gambler in recovery and the host of The Modern Meeting podcast. After nearly two decades of addiction impacting every part of his life, he sought help through Gamblers Anonymous on February 8, 2022, a turning point that changed everything. He created The Modern Meeting to bring honest recovery conversations beyond the walls of meetings, reduce stigma, and remind people they are not alone. Adam is also the Customer Success Manager at Evive and co-host of Evive Live with Christina Cook.

Daniel Trolaro currently serves as the Managing Director of Education and Fair Play for IC360, a global leader in sports betting integrity. Previously, he was the Assistant Executive Director for the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey, better known as (800 GAMBLER) where he became a prominent voice in addressing emerging trends in sports betting, fantasy sports, gambling and youth gaming.

Dan’s expertise is uniquely shaped by his academic background in Psychology and Finance, as well as a 12-year career in high-stakes investment banking at firms like Goldman Sachs. However, his most profound insights come from his lived experience. Having worked downtown and after witnessing the tragic events of September 11, 2001 firsthand, Dan started to suffer in silence without a guiding voice. After a long, private battle with a gambling disorder and a life-altering journey through the criminal justice system, Dan began his recovery in February 2010.

Today, he is dedicated to turning 'suffering into success.' He co-hosts the 'Hello My Name Is Craig' podcast with Radio and TV personality Craig Carton and has shared his story with Mark Laita on his YouTube channel, Soft White Underbelly. A passionate advocate for youth literacy, Dan has been instrumental in developing specialized curricula to help educators navigate the modern convergence of gaming and gambling.

Dave Wohl is a seasoned professional with a diverse background and over 30 years of experience in the healthcare industry. With a passion for improving patient care and healthcare systems, Dave holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Arizona State University, a Master of Science in Sports Medicine from West Virginia University, and an MBA from Western Governors University. Additionally, Dave is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (FACHE), demonstrating a commitment to leadership excellence within the healthcare field.
Before joining ICPG in 2023, Dave held various roles within healthcare, ranging from direct patient care to department management and hospital administration.  With a wealth of experience, Dave brings a unique perspective and leadership to ICPG.