Episode 90. From the Shadows Into the Light: Connie’s Journey Through Jail, Gambling Addiction, and Second Chances with Connie Paglianiti

Prescribing Lifestyle

In this episode of Prescribing Lifestyle, I sit down with Connie Paglianiti, motivational speaker, author, and founder of We Socialise. Connie shares her raw and powerful story—from running successful large-scale events to serving time in prison after a devastating mistake.

We talk about shame, addiction, the prison system, and what it means to truly start over. Connie opens up about the bullying she faced behind bars, the toll on her family, and how she rebuilt her life with purpose, grit, and a fierce drive to help others.

💚 This conversation is a reminder that healing is possible, growth is always an option—and no one is ever too far gone for a second chance.

What We Covered in This Episode

• Connie’s Journey: From award-winning events to incarceration, and what she learned about herself along the way.
• The Power of Vulnerability: Why hiding pain can be more dangerous than facing it—and how being open transformed Connie’s life.
• What Prison Was Really Like: The truth about bullying, isolation, and the impact of COVID lockdowns in jail.
• Rebuilding After Rock Bottom: How Connie found her voice again through study, public speaking, and sharing her story with the world.
• Helping Others Through Addiction & Recovery: Her work with Gambler’s Help, and why she's passionate about breaking the stigma.

Key Takeaways

• You are never too old—or too broken—to start again.
• Vulnerability is a strength that opens the door to real transformation.
• Support, community, and purpose are vital in healing from trauma or addiction.
• One person’s story can spark change in many others.

Resources & Links

• Speaking & Books: https://speaking.conniepaglianiti.com
• Event Services: https://wesocialise.com.au
• LinkedIn: Connie Paglianiti
• Facebook: We Socialise

📚 Coming Soon:

• From the Shadows into the Light (April 2025)
• Chainless & Fearless: The Four Ways to Transformation
• My Unforgettable Story – co-authored best-seller now available

Connect with Me

• Website: www.mlcclinic.com.au
• Instagram: @dr_charlton_lifestyle_gp
• Facebook: Dr Charlton Lifestyle GP
• YouTube: @avicharlton

Let’s Stay Connected

💚 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who might need to hear this.

🌐 For more support around low carb living, lifestyle medicine, and wellness, visit www.mlcclinic.com.au.

Disclaimer

The information shared in this podcast is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional before making any changes to your lifestyle or treatment plan.