Gambling advertising in Canada is targeting the demographic least equipped to resist it. Steve Joordens explains exactly why, and what two bills in Parliament are trying to do about it.

The brain science matters here. The limbic system, which chases rewards and makes gambling feel exciting, develops early. The frontal lobes, which apply judgment and inhibition, are not fully developed until age 25. A 15-year-old is all reward-seeking and very little restraint. Joordens says gambling ads are using every psychological trick in the book against exactly that profile, and in some studies, over 50 percent of youth who engage in gambling show signs of problem gambling.

The ask is not a gambling ban. Ontario's Bill 107 targets harmful gambling advertising. A national Bill 211 does the same at the federal level. Joordens draws the parallel to cigarettes and cannabis: allow the activity, stop the push.

Topics: gambling advertising Canada, problem gambling youth, frontal lobe development, Ontario Bill 107, federal Bill 211

GUEST: Steve Joordens | linkedin.com/in/steve-joordens

Originally aired on 2026-05-13

Gambling advertising in Canada is targeting the demographic least equipped to resist it. Steve Joordens explains exactly why, and what two bills in Parliament are trying to do about it.
The brain science matters here. The limbic system, which chases rewards and makes gambling feel exciting, develops early. The frontal lobes, which apply judgment and inhibition, are not fully developed until age 25. A 15-year-old is all reward-seeking and very little restraint. Joordens says gambling ads are using every psychological trick in the book against exactly that profile, and in some studies, over 50 percent of youth who engage in gambling show signs of problem gambling.
The ask is not a gambling ban. Ontario's Bill 107 targets harmful gambling advertising. A national Bill 211 does the same at the federal level. Joordens draws the parallel to cigarettes and cannabis: allow the activity, stop the push.
Topics: gambling advertising Canada, problem gambling youth, frontal lobe development, Ontario Bill 107, federal Bill 211
GUEST: Steve Joordens |<a href="http://linkedin.com/in/steve-joordens"> linkedin.com/in/steve-joordens</a>
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-05-13

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.