Note: she said she's interviewing people about their HABITS. That word seems really loaded to me. I might ask her to clarify whether she was using the word meaning hobby, or meaning addiction; if the former, suggest she doesn't use the word habit, and if the latter, then you'll at least know what you're up against.

I'd also concentrate on the learning aspect of the game, how it requires discipline, study, practice and a mixture of mathematics and psychology. Make it clear that one of the main joys you get is using your brain for money and pleasure - a simple demonstration of the maths involved, or probability, even of game theory.

If, as the interview proceeds, it becomes clear she has an agenda to vilify either you or the game/lifestyle, try not to fall into traps, such as using the same terminology a junkie would. Equally, don't get defensive or argumentative. There are clearly concerns about people who are prone to lose more than they afford gambling. You recognise this, and encourage these people to seek help - a regulated, legal US poker landscape would be a huge help, reducing the stigma and providing official channels of support where needed. Stress how much of a difference a player can make to their game with even a small amount of studying, and how bankroll management is a tried and tested mechanism for preventing undue risk.