You Bet Your Life: How I Survived Jim Crow Racism, Hurricane Chasing, and Gambling

Growing up poor and black in the rigidly segregated South, Spencer Christian relied on his family’s solid work ethic, commitment to education, and Christian faith to carve a path to success and national visibility. As weatherman and co-host for ABC’s Good Morning America, he thought he had everything—a loving wife and children, a beautiful home, and a rewarding and remarkable career.

Yet, he was living a double life. For nearly 30 years, he was a compulsive gambler. By the time he found the courage to confront his dependence, he had lost millions, his home, his job—and most important—his family.

You Bet Your Life tells the roller-coaster story of Christian’s rise to success and crash to rock bottom. It also details his rebounding, rebuilding, and recovering of hope and happiness. This gripping and transparent tale will amuse, shock, and inspire.