Upswing Poker Level-Up

Get 25% off Lucid Poker. Watch 'Winning Money in Multiway Pots' Join our Discord community. View the written version of this episode here. In this episode, you'll learn the seven most powerful small bet situations that can instantly pressure your opponents and win more pots. By watching, you'll understand exactly when to use small bets for protection, range advantage, stack-to-pot leverage, block betting, and multi-way pressure so you can make more profitable decisions in both cash games and tournaments. 00:00 Mastering Small Bets to Punish Missed Ranges (Cash Game C-Bet Strategy) 00:48 Protection Betting: Thin Value with Medium Pairs in Tournaments 02:50 Range Advantage Boards: Small Bets When You Smash the Flop 04:30 Low Stack-to-Pot Ratio Strategy in 3-Bet and 4-Bet Pots 06:16 Out-of-Position Flop Strategy: Why Solvers Prefer Small Bets 07:18 River Block Betting: Setting Your Own Price with Medium Strength Hands 09:06 Multi-Way Pots: Shared Defense and Why Smaller Bets Work In this episode of the Level-Up podcast, we break down the seven most profitable small bet situations in No Limit Hold'em and explain how to weaponize small sizing in both cash games and tournaments. From classic continuation bet spots to advanced stack-to-pot ratio adjustments, this guide shows you how to pressure opponents efficiently without bloating the pot unnecessarily. The first key concept centers on betting small when your opponent's range is filled with missed hands. In single-raised pots—like when you raise preflop and the big blind calls—dry flops such as queen-seven-three heavily favor the preflop raiser. Because the defender's range contains many ace-high and low-equity hands, a small one-third pot c-bet frequently wins the pot immediately while risking very little. This is one of the most efficient plays in modern poker strategy. Next, we explore protection betting with medium-strength hands. In tournament scenarios with 50 big blind stacks, holding a pocket pair on a coordinated board often calls for a small turn bet. This thin value plus protection approach forces opponents with overcards into difficult decisions, either folding equity or calling while behind. When your range crushes the board—such as in three-bet pots on ace-king-jack textures—small bets at high frequency generate folds from capped ranges while maintaining balance. Similarly, in four-bet pots where the stack-to-pot ratio (SPR) is low, small bets are typically optimal because the pot is already bloated and ranges are narrow. Out of position, solvers overwhelmingly prefer small sizing as the preflop raiser. By "naming your price," you avoid giving the in-position player the advantage of dictating the pot size. This principle extends to block betting on the river, where small bets with medium-strength hands prevent facing larger bets while still extracting thin value. Finally, we examine multi-way pots. Because the burden of defense is shared, betting into multiple players already signals strength. Smaller bets often accomplish the same goal as larger ones while preserving stack depth. Mastering these seven small bet scenarios will dramatically improve your postflop strategy, increase your win rate, and help you control pot geometry across a wide variety of poker situations.

Click here to get 25% off EVERYTHING at Upswing Poker during the Black Friday sale! "Honestly in the 20 whatever years I've been on and off studying poker I don't know if I've ever seen a more impactful, concise, practical and actionable 20 minutes of content. Very very well done. Thank you." - Verified Lab 2.0 Member Click here and watch 'How to Play Pocket Kings'. Learn how to play Ace-King with clarity as Uri Peleg breaks down real hands and shows you exactly when this "premium" hand is powerful—and when it's just Ace-high. By the end, you'll know how to avoid costly mistakes, read tricky situations, and confidently extract maximum value from one of poker's most misunderstood hands. 00:00 Why Ace-King Is a Deceptive and Difficult Hand 01:59 Playing Ace-High on a Dry Board 03:29 When Ace-King Becomes "Just Ace-High" 03:56 Deep-Stacked 3-Bet Pot on a Connected Board 06:08 Strong Flop and Clean Runout With Ace-King 06:57 Blind vs Blind: Managing Missed Flops 08:46 Navigating Bad Boards With Ace-King This video is a deep dive into one of poker's most misunderstood hands: Ace-King. Uri Peleg explains that while Ace-King is ranked among the strongest preflop holdings, it behaves very differently from true premiums like Aces or Kings. The hand's profitability is split: when you hit an Ace or a King, it becomes a powerhouse, but when you miss, it shifts into a marginal holding that often under-realizes its equity. The core message is learning to separate the emotional attachment players feel toward "big slick" from the actual strategic reality of the board, ranges, and runouts. Uri walks through a series of real hand examples that illustrate how dramatically Ace-King's value can fluctuate. In the first scenario, he shows how Ace-King with no pair is essentially just Ace-high—nothing more. He encourages players to visualize the hand as something as humble as Ace-Deuce when facing river aggression, reminding viewers that the preflop strength is irrelevant once the board runs out and equities shift. When the hand misses, the correct approach is often checking back, calling once with overcards, or folding river bets that only beat bluffs. The next hands highlight more nuanced spots, such as 3-bet pots where you flop draws or turn top pair in dangerous textures. Uri demonstrates how paired boards, four-to-a-straight runouts, and coordinated middling textures can crush Ace-King's value. In one hand he turns top pair top kicker but immediately explains why it's still a weak holding due to the connected nature of the board and the many wheel Aces that dominate him. He stresses discipline—letting go of the "premium hand" mindset and evaluating each street as if holding an ordinary bluff catcher. The video also includes best-case scenarios where you not only flop top pair but continue running out safely. Uri shows how to extract value on clean textures and when to size aggressively with strong but vulnerable holdings. These examples are balanced with tougher ones where the player gets to showdown cheaply or picks up a lucky river improvement after checking twice and avoiding check-raises. Uri reinforces a key concept: Ace-King is not a hand that wants to inflate pots blindly. Its strength is highly contextual, dependent on the board, the action, and the opponent's range. Sometimes it plays like a monster; other times it plays like a weak Ace-high.

Play and improve for free with Lucid Poker GIVEAWAY: Want to win a $3,000 trip to Las Vegas to play the WPT Prime Championship? Sign up for Lucid Poker and play just 1 hand on any leaderboard to give yourself a chance to win. If you start your free trial and climb into the top 10 of a leaderboard, you can unlock even more entries in the giveaway. Good luck! Watch 'STOP C-Betting Out of Position (It's Costing You Money)' Mike Brady and poker pro Gary Blackwood reveal five key flop scenarios where you should always bet to maximize profits and simplify decision-making. From disconnected King-high boards to big-pair flops, they explain when aggressive range betting works best—and View the written version of this episode here. 00:00 Situation 1 03:04 Situation 2 05:00 Situation 3 07:10 Situation 4 09:41 Situation 5 In this Level-Up episode, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood explain five key situations in which poker players should increase aggression and bet their entire range. Many players, they note, aren't aggressive enough post-flop — a costly leak that can be fixed with simple heuristics. Each situation is supported by solver insights and practical examples drawn from both live and online play, with the overarching goal of helping players simplify their strategy while maintaining strong expected value. Situation 1 focuses on flops with no draws and one high card when you're in position — for example, King-Eight-Deuce or Queen-Seven-Deuce rainbow. These boards are dry and disconnected, giving the preflop raiser a strong equity advantage. Solvers show nearly universal continuation betting, since opponents in the big blind have mostly missed. However, if the flop adds flush or straight possibilities, players should reduce c-betting frequency because resistance from opponents will increase. Situation 2 arises when you're raising from an earlier position such as the hijack, and your range is naturally tighter and stronger. On moderately connected flops like Jack-Six-Deuce, you can once again bet your entire range. The reason is straightforward: a tighter preflop range connects more often and contains fewer total misses, allowing for confident aggression. Situation 3 covers flops that include a big pair like King-King-Five or Queen-Queen-Three. These boards are overwhelmingly favorable for the preflop aggressor, especially in three-bet pots, because the range advantage is massive. Gary and Mike emphasize that players should c-bet every time using small sizes to exploit opponents who are forced to fold much of their range. Situation 4 applies to King-high flops in three-bet pots when you're in position. Through Lucid Poker simulations, Mike demonstrates that betting every time on such boards—no matter your actual hand—rarely produces mistakes. The simplicity of this approach makes it an easy and profitable rule of thumb. Situation 5 flips the script: you've three-bet out of position and the flop is disconnected with one high card, like Ace-Eight-Deuce or Queen-Seven-Deuce. Here again, betting nearly your entire range with a small sizing works best because your range maintains a strong advantage. The episode concludes with three caveats: dial back aggression when opponents overfold, over-attack, or when stacks are short and a shove is likely. While aggression is profitable, the key lesson is controlled aggression—bet big when range advantage is clear, but adapt intelligently when dynamics shift.

The Lucid Poker Trainer is FREE starting on November 10th! Watch 'Top 5 Spots to Bluff in Poker'. Learn seven essential strategies to dominate live and online cash games with host Mike Brady and poker pro Gary Blackwood. From value betting thinly to attacking capped ranges, this episode breaks down the habits that separate winners from everyone else at the table. View the written version of this episode. 00:00 Tip 1 03:52 Tip 2 07:42 Tip 3 12:30 Tip 4 15:08 Tip 5 18:50 Tip 6 22:55 Tip 7 In this episode of the Upswing Poker Level-Up, host Mike Brady and poker pro Gary Blackwood share seven actionable tips designed to help players maximize their profits in live and online cash games. Tip 1: Value Bet Relentlessly, emphasizing that most players fail to extract enough value from their strong hands. Gary explains that value betting thinly — even with second or third pair — is crucial because opponents rarely raise as bluffs. Avoiding fear of a raise and focusing on consistent value extraction is key to long-term success. Tip 2: Practice Good Game Selection Habits focuses on putting yourself in profitable environments. Mike notes that even great players can lose if they face stronger opponents, while average players can win consistently in weaker games. The duo provides a checklist for identifying soft live tables — look for regular limpers, frequent multiway pots, or rare preflop re-raises — and stress the importance of maintaining good etiquette rather than "bum hunting." Online players, they add, should seek tables with at least one weak opponent and leave when the lineup gets too tough. Tip 3: Watch Opponents and Formulate Counter Strategies, Gary urges players to stay observant even when they're not in a hand. He explains how noticing showdowns and betting patterns can reveal exploitable tendencies, such as overfolding rivers or checking back too often. Mike builds on this with examples of how to adjust aggression and raise sizes based on opponents' leaks. Tip 4: Play Aggressively When In Position teaches how to exploit positional advantage. When heads-up, being the aggressor puts out-of-position players under pressure. In contrast, Tip 5: Check the Flop Frequently in Multiway Pots highlights the need for caution when facing multiple opponents, since their ranges are more likely to connect with the board. The hosts explain how to balance passive lines with timely check-raises using strong hands and semi-bluffs. Tip 6: Attack Capped Ranges Relentlessly explores recognizing when opponents lack strong hands and applying pressure with big bets or bluffs. Both value betting and overbetting in these situations are highly profitable because most players fail to protect their ranges. Tip 7: Mostly Fast Play Strong Hands reinforces the idea that building pots early leads to greater long-term gains. However, Gary reminds players that slow playing has its place when the pot is already large or when in position. The episode wraps up with encouragement for listeners to reflect on which tips resonated most and to apply them immediately in their next session.

Use coupon code LEVELUP and get $50 off the new Lab 2.0 Watch the 'Winning Money in Multiway Pots' episode on YouTube Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood reveal the five most profitable bluffing spots in poker that every serious player should master. Learn how to identify and exploit bluffing opportunities—like paired boards, delayed c-bets, and favorable runouts—to outthink your opponents and win more pots. View the written version of this episode here. 00:00 Tip 1 05:06 Tip 2 09:15 Tip 3 12:28 Tip 4 16:03 Tip 5 In this episode of the Upswing Poker Level-Up, hosts Mike Brady and Scottish pro Gary Blackwood break down the five most effective bluffing spots that every player can add to their arsenal to win more pots and play with greater confidence. The discussion opens with an emphasis on fundamentals—identifying bluff spots rooted in sound theory rather than intuition or live reads. The first bluffing spot focuses on check-raising paired flops after defending from the big blind. Gary and Mike explain how solvers recommend surprisingly wide check-raises on boards like Ten-Ten-Deuce or Queen-Deuce-Deuce, creating highly profitable situations since opponents rarely defend correctly. They highlight how these bluffs succeed because most players don't realize how often they should be calling with weaker holdings or backdoor draws. Next, they explore delayed continuation betting—a powerful bluff when your opponent checks twice. By analyzing real game scenarios, they demonstrate that when a flop and turn go check-check, the opponent's range is "capped," meaning it contains few strong hands. This opens a prime opportunity to apply pressure through wide and aggressive turn bets. The third major bluff spot covers probe betting on the turn after your opponent checks back on a dynamic flop. Here, they challenge conventional solver logic by showing that most human players fail to check strong hands as often as theory dictates. As a result, when they check back, they're often weak, making probe bets—especially with draws and backdoor equity—highly effective. Bluff spot number four focuses on attacking when the board texture shifts dramatically in your favor. When a turn or river card favors your range—for instance, completing potential straights or two-pair combinations—you can lead aggressively, even out of position. The hosts emphasize how understanding range advantage allows you to "donk bet" profitably in these scenarios. The final bluff spot centers on barreling when draws complete and you hold key blockers. Using the Ten-Six-Deuce-Three-Queen board as an example, they show how triple-barrel bluffs with hands like Ace-Five with the Ace of diamonds can be extremely powerful because they block potential flushes while representing strong hands. Throughout the episode, Mike and Gary balance GTO theory with real-world exploitation, giving listeners the strategic insight to recognize and act on bluffing opportunities that most players miss. By mastering these five spots, you'll sharpen your aggression, punish capped ranges, and level up your overall poker strategy.

Use coupon code LEVELUP and get $50 off the new Lab 2.0. Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood reveal five popular solver strategies that actually hurt your win rate against real-life opponents. From misguided three-bets to weak river plays, they break down when and why "playing like a computer" can cost you money—and how to exploit human tendencies instead. View the written version of this episode here. 00:00 Tip 1 03:05 Tip 2 05:30 Tip 3 08:38 Tip 4 10:19 Tip 5 In this episode of Upswing Poker Level Up, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood break down five solver-approved strategies that often backfire in real-world poker games. While solvers have revolutionized modern strategy, they remind listeners that most human opponents don't play like perfectly balanced computers. The episode's focus is on identifying when to abandon solver logic and play exploitatively to maximize profits against typical players. The first tip targets the solver's polarized three-bet range from the big blind. While strong in theory, it fails against opponents who rarely fold, meaning speculative bluffs like Jack-Eight suited or King-Five suited simply bloat the pot unnecessarily. Tip two examines the "three-bet or fold" preflop strategy. Solvers favor aggression, but when weak players are in the blinds, calling instead of re-raising can increase expected value and keep those soft opponents in the pot. In tip three, the hosts challenge the solver's preference for checking back Aces and Kings on low boards. While this protects one's checking range in theory, it often leads to missed value when opponents are too passive to bet later streets. Tip four addresses bluffing the river with key blockers—an advanced concept that loses effectiveness against calling stations who refuse to fold top pair or better. Instead, players should simplify and focus on extracting value. Finally, tip five discusses block betting the river with nutted hands. Although solvers use small bets to induce raises, human opponents rarely raise thinly enough, turning what should be a value opportunity into a missed one. The takeaway: when you have the nuts, bet big. Throughout the episode, Mike and Gary emphasize the importance of adapting to opponents and conditions rather than following solvers blindly. Their message is clear—real profit comes from understanding why a strategy works and adjusting to human tendencies at the table.

Click here to get the Preflop Prodigy app. Learn ten essential poker tips that will instantly make you a stronger and more profitable player — from preflop strategy and semi-bluffing to mental game mastery. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your fundamentals, these quick lessons will help you win more and play smarter every session. View the written version of this episode here. 00:00 Tip 1 00:55 Tip 2 02:50 Tip 3 04:38 Tip 4 06:18 Tip 5 07:54 Tip 6 12:05 Tip 7 13:46 Tip 8 14:39 Tip 9 16:21 Tip 10 In this episode of Level Up, listeners get ten powerful poker fundamentals that can transform the way they approach No Limit Hold'em. These are not complex solver-based concepts, but timeless strategies that separate disciplined players from those who bleed chips. The first key lesson is to play fewer hands and play them aggressively — overplaying weak or marginal hands is the fastest path to losing money. From there, Mike dives into developing a solid preflop strategy, encouraging players to study and stick to proven opening ranges rather than guessing at the table. Next, Mike emphasizes why you should never be the first to limp preflop, since it limits your ways to win and invites too many opponents into the pot. Instead, raising builds fold equity and defines your range. Semi-bluffing aggressively with draws is introduced as a way to blend offense and safety — giving players both fold equity and potential outs to strong hands. The fifth tip, fast playing strong hands, teaches that betting your big hands early often earns more value and protects against bad runouts, with slow playing reserved for specific board textures. From there, the focus shifts to defending your big blind correctly, explaining how position, raise size, and stack depth influence which hands to call. Tip six reminds players that when unsure, it's better to fold — curiosity is expensive, and learning to let go of marginal hands saves countless buy-ins. The seventh principle, attack when opponents show weakness, encourages calculated aggression when players check or hesitate, especially in heads-up pots. As the episode nears its conclusion, the advice turns mental and situational. Tip eight urges tournament players to play solid early and not worry about survival, while tip nine stresses that you should only play when you feel emotionally ready — fatigue or tilt destroys good decision-making. Finally, tip ten drives home that success starts with choosing the right games; your edge is only as good as the opponents you face. Altogether, these ten tips form a simple but effective blueprint for becoming a confident, profitable poker player.

Avoiding just a few critical mistakes could be the key to unlocking your win rate at the poker table. In this episode of the Upswing Poker Level-Up podcast, Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood break down the three biggest leaks that crush players at low stakes—and how to fix them. Get instant access to the Preflop Prodigy app View the written version of this episode 00:00 Mistake #1 – Playing Too Passively 02:03 Mistake #2 – Missing Thin Value Bets 08:06 Mistake #3 – Calling with Bluff Catchers 12:52 Bonus Mistake – Playing While Tilted In this episode, host Mike Brady and Scottish poker professional Gary Blackwood dive into the three biggest mistakes players make at the table and how to avoid them. The discussion is packed with real-world examples, hand breakdowns, and actionable insights that will help listeners sharpen their skills and maximize their win rate. This poker strategy podcast emphasizes practical advice for low- and mid-stakes players who often find themselves bleeding chips due to preventable errors. Mistake #1 – Playing Too Passive: Gary stresses the importance of aggression, especially preflop. Passive play, such as calling too frequently with marginal hands, leads to long-term losses. Good players lean into three-bets and apply pressure, rather than limping along and giving away equity. The key takeaway is simple: tighten your ranges and stay aggressive to keep opponents uncomfortable. Mistake #2 – Not Value Betting Thinly Enough: The heart of poker profitability lies in value betting, and Gary points out that many players restrict themselves to betting only with top pair or better. Through detailed hand examples, he illustrates why second pair, bottom pair, and even ace-high can often justify a small river bet. Mike reinforces this by showing how thin value bets, especially when properly sized, can significantly boost a player's overall earnings. Integrating these small but consistent value spots is one of the fastest ways to raise your win rate. Mistake #3 – Overcalling Bluff Catchers Against Non-Bluffers: Perhaps the most costly leak in low-stakes poker is calling down opponents who rarely bluff. Bluff catchers, by definition, only beat bluffs—and against players who underbluff, these hands quickly become money burners. Gary explains why disciplined folds, even with seemingly strong holdings like top pair or two pair, are often the correct play. The lesson here is about opponent profiling: against players who lean nitty and conservative, folding is a weapon. Bonus Mistake – Playing on Tilt: To round things off, Mike and Gary highlight the dangers of playing emotionally compromised. A single tilt-induced mistake can wipe out hours of grinding. Taking a walk, doing breathing exercises, or even leaving the session entirely can save hundreds of big blinds over time. Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize that small adjustments in discipline, mindset, and aggression can drastically change long-term results. This poker strategy podcast serves as both a warning against common pitfalls and a roadmap to playing more profitable, confident poker. Whether you're chasing incremental edges or simply trying to avoid costly errors, the episode offers concrete strategies that can be applied instantly to your game.

Get instant access to the new Lab 2.0 now. Learn how to stay calm and make smarter decisions when your poker hands take unexpected turns. The world's best poker coach, Uri Peleg, gives you practical strategies and mindset shifts to quickly reevaluate, adapt, and protect your bankroll in tough situations. View the written version of this episode here. 00:00 Hand Example Breakdown 01:47 Range vs. Hand Thinking 03:21 Betting Structures and Exploits 04:28 Adapting When Plans Change 05:58 Reassessing Hand Strength in Action In this poker strategy podcast, Mike Brady and elite coach Uri Peleg explore one of the most important but overlooked skills in poker: knowing what to do when hands don't go as planned. Every player has experienced the frustration of seeing a strong starting hand or a favorable flop turn into a tough spot after unexpected action, but Uri breaks down how to handle these moments with clarity and confidence. Using a real hand example and practical analogies, he shows how focusing on your range rather than just your hand strength leads to smarter decisions and prevents costly mistakes. Listeners will learn how to adjust betting strategies, recognize when their plan is no longer working, and quickly reevaluate based on changing dynamics. This poker strategy podcast also dives into the importance of flexibility — whether it's shifting from aggression to caution, or accepting that folding a big hand can sometimes be the most profitable move. By reframing these situations as opportunities to adapt rather than failures, players gain a mental edge that carries across every stage of the game. If you've ever struggled with letting go of a strong-looking hand or found yourself stubbornly sticking to a plan that no longer makes sense, this poker strategy podcast delivers the perspective shift you need. Whether you're a beginner working through the basics or a seasoned grinder aiming for mastery, you'll come away with actionable insights to stay calm, stay sharp, and keep your bankroll protected when the game throws you curveballs.

Gain instant access to the new Lab 2.0 now. Discover when playing tight is profitable and when it actually costs you money with elite coach Uri Peleg. You'll gain practical strategies, mindset shifts, and real-world examples that will help you balance your ranges, stay unpredictable, and maximize long-term profits at the poker table. View the written version of this episode here. 00:00 Expected Value of Strong vs. Marginal Hands 03:42 Why Play Weaker Hands 05:56 Reasons Not to Play Like a Nit 06:53 Importance of Balance and Unpredictability 08:40 Lab 2.0 Overview 11:12 When to Tighten Up Strategically 13:21 Real-World Examples of Adjusting Ranges 16:13 Flexibility with Bet Sizing 19:16 Managing Stack-to-Pot Ratios In this poker strategy podcast, Mike Brady teams up with elite coach Uri Peleg to answer a classic question: should you play like a nit preflop? While it may seem logical to stick to only the very best hands, the discussion reveals why doing so actually limits your profits. Uri explains that although hands like Aces, Kings, and Queens generate the majority of your expected value, marginal hands such as suited connectors and weaker offsuit holdings still contribute small but meaningful gains. More importantly, including these hands keeps your range balanced and makes it harder for opponents to exploit you when you pick up a monster. This poker strategy podcast emphasizes that poker is a game of small edges. Even fractions of a big blind add up over time, and being overly tight allows opponents to quickly read your strategy and deny you action. By mixing in more hands, not only do you capture additional value, but you also make your strong hands far more profitable because they become tougher to spot. At the same time, Uri and Mike point out that there are situations where playing tighter is the smart adjustment. Facing aggressive pros to your left, for example, might call for dropping marginal opens, while softer tables with weak opponents reward a looser approach. Flexibility and awareness of table conditions are key — rigidly sticking to "nit" play leaves money on the table. This poker strategy podcast ultimately delivers a balanced view: don't be a rock, but don't be reckless either. Learn when to widen your ranges, when to tighten up, and how to think critically about the dynamics at your table. Whether you're a beginner trying to avoid common pitfalls or an experienced player looking to refine your game, this poker strategy podcast gives you actionable insights to stay unpredictable, capture hidden value, and maximize long-term profits.

Click here to get 25% off Lab 2.0 to celebrate launch week! Discount starts September 8th and expires September 12th. The world's best poker coach, Uri Peleg, is here to help you destroy the players in your games. He's collected 7 real hands, each of which demonstrates a key hole in the opponent's game at showdown. First, he'll talk about how to identify and note such mistakes. Then, he'll give you the specific tactic you can use to counter this player every time you're up against them. Live coaching webinars like this will be a weekly feature inside of Lab 2.0. Get sneak peeks and learn more here.

Want a sneak peek at the Lab 2.0, coming to Upswing Poker on September 8th? Register here for early access. The world's best poker coach, Uri Peleg, shares his five best strategies for dominating soft games. Alongside co-host Mike Brady, he breaks down how to exploit common mistakes without falling into the same traps. Whether you play live or low-stakes online, these tips will help you maximize value and boost your win rate. View the written version of this episode here. 00:00 Tip #1: Categorize Players 08:46 Tip #2: Adjust for Multiway Pots 15:20 Tip #3: Check Your Ego 19:55 Tip #4: Bad Play Doesn't Always Benefit You 23:04 Tip #5: Overplay the Top of Your Range 28:29 Bonus Tip: Don't Copy Bad Habits In this episode of the Upswing Poker Level-Up, host Mike Brady is joined by world-class poker coach Uri Peleg to share five powerful tips for dominating soft games, whether live or low-stakes online. Uri, who has coached some of the best players in the game and won millions himself, opens by stressing the importance of categorizing opponents to quickly identify calling stations, over-aggressors, and passive players. From there, the discussion moves to one of the most common features of soft games—multiway pots—and how to adapt by tightening up, folding more marginal hands, and resisting the urge to chase every pot. Uri's next tip tip focuses on controlling ego and avoiding tilt. In soft games, variance can mask skill in the short term, and chasing losses often leads to disastrous results. He emphasizes patience, discipline, and judging your play based on decision quality rather than short-term outcomes. Next up he flips a common assumption on its head—just because an opponent makes a bad play doesn't mean it benefits you. Some mistakes, like over-raising or over-calling, can actually hurt your win rate if you don't adjust strategically. The final and most important tip is to overplay the top of your range against unpredictable opponents. In soft games, players often act randomly or inconsistently, so hands like overpairs or top pair/top kicker should be pushed aggressively for maximum value instead of overthinking and making cautious folds. As a bonus, Uri warns against copying the bad habits of weaker players. Just because others limp or splash around with subpar hands doesn't mean you should follow suit—it erodes your edge and invites unnecessary losses. Throughout the episode, Uri ties these lessons to the upcoming Lab 2.0 training platform (available soon), which focuses on practical, real-world strategies for crushing live and soft games. Whether you're a seasoned player looking to refine your approach or a low-stakes grinder aiming to boost your win rate, these insights will help you exploit weaker competition while avoiding common pitfalls.

Sneak peek from Lab 2.0, coming to Upswing Poker on September 8th. Register for early access here. The world's best poker coach, Uri Peleg, walks you through numerous hand examples and shares key insights for playing Pocket Kings. He positions the question "how should you play pocket kings" as a philosophical one that touches deep into something beautiful about the game of poker. View the written version of this episode here. 00:00 The Philosophy of Playing Pocket Kings 02:56 Reevaluating Hand Strength Post-Flop 05:46 Overview of Lab 2.0 and Learning Path 06:13 Pot Control with Marginal Boards 08:50 Maximizing Value Against Loose Opponents 09:50 Playing Strong Hands on Dynamic Boards In this poker strategy podcast, world-class coach Uri Peleg takes you deep into the art of playing Pocket Kings — one of the most exciting yet misunderstood hands in No-Limit Hold'em. Pulled from Upswing Poker's Lab 2.0 course, this episode blends philosophy, strategy, and real hand breakdowns to show why Kings, while a preflop powerhouse, require constant reevaluation once the flop hits. Uri explores scenarios against skilled opponents, revealing how the board texture, betting patterns, and player tendencies can transform a monster hand into a marginal bluff-catcher — or the nuts into a value-shoving machine. Listeners will follow along as Uri navigates dream flops, dangerous turns, and tricky rivers, explaining when to push for big pots, when to pot-control, and when to get out of the way. You'll hear hands where Kings crush opponents for massive stacks, as well as spots where restraint saves your tournament life or bankroll. Along the way, Uri drops mindset gems, reminding players to shed emotional attachment to "premium" hands and focus on situational value instead. This poker strategy podcast also introduces you to the Lab 2.0 learning path, designed to meet players at their current skill level and guide them toward mastery through tailored lessons. Whether you're a beginner hoping to avoid common pitfalls or an experienced grinder looking to sharpen your decision-making, this poker strategy podcast will arm you with both the technical skills and mental discipline to handle Kings — and countless other hands — with confidence. If you're serious about improving your game, this poker strategy podcast is your ticket to turning knowledge into profit.

Learn how to turn a single showdown into a strategic advantage at the poker table. In this episode, Mike and Gary break down five real-world hand scenarios and reveal powerful counter-strategies to exploit common player types—ranging from over-bluffers to under-value bettors. If you're ready to level up your poker reads and punish your opponents' mistakes, this one's for you. Sign up for the Upswing Lab to follow a clear, structured path to poker improvement. Sharpen your solver fundamentals by joining the Lucid Poker GTO Trainer. View the written version of this episode here. 00:00 Introduction to Opponent Exploitation 01:16 Sizing Up with Strong Hands 02:39 Loose Preflop Calls 03:40 Donking with One Pair 06:29 Facing an Overbluffer 11:36 Passive Players and Missed Value 12:30 Wrap-Up and Lab 2.0 Tease In this episode of the Upswing Poker Level-Up poker strategy podcast, Mike Brady and poker pro Gary Blackwood dive into one of the most underrated tools in your poker arsenal: the power of a single showdown. They explore how observing just one hand at showdown can give you a massive edge against your opponents—if you know how to interpret it correctly. Through five detailed hand examples, the duo breaks down how to spot key player tendencies and then exploit them ruthlessly in future hands. The show kicks off with a reminder that player behavior often has patterns—but not always—so while one showdown can reveal a lot, multiple showdowns are even better. That said, even one hand can provide enough insight to expose a player's habits. Hand #1 features a player who sizes up their preflop raise with strong hands, signaling a predictable pattern you can punish by tightening up against large raises and ramping up aggression against standard sizes. In Hand #2, Mike and Gary analyze a loose caller who shows down junky hands like K7 offsuit and J9 offsuit in spots where tighter ranges are mandatory. The adjustment? Raise bigger preflop and exploit their bloated, weak ranges postflop with aggressive continuation betting and double barreling. Hand #3 covers the infamous "donk bettor"—players who lead out inappropriately from the big blind on dry boards. These players are easy to read: when they check, they're often weak, giving you permission to go into bluff mode. Hand #4 introduces the "serial bluffer"—the kind of player who can't resist betting flop, turn, and river with air. The key exploit? Out of position check-raise your strong hands early to build the pot. In position, trap with hands that can take heat. Mike even references a complementary video on Lucid Poker's YouTube channel that expands on this exact concept, reinforcing the episode's focus on applying theory to real-world opponents. Finally, Hand #5 wraps things up with a look at passive players who fail to value bet thinly enough. These opponents can often be overfolded against when they show aggression and should be treated cautiously when you're considering a thin value bet. Packed with practical advice and counter-strategies, this poker strategy podcast episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to move beyond generic advice and start making razor-sharp adjustments based on real player behavior. If you're serious about becoming more exploitative and maximizing EV, this is the poker strategy podcast episode that will help you get there.

Every hand begins with preflop play, so making correct decisions is critically important. Upswing Poker VP Mike Brady and Scottish poker pro Gary Blackwood share five actionable tips that you can use to elevate your game and take advantage of your opponent's mistakes! Join the Upswing Poker Lab and check out the Low Stakes Launch Pad course. Make sure to use promo code LEVELUP when you sign up and you'll receive $50 off! Subscribe to the Lucid Poker GTO Trainer View the episode transcription 00:00 Tip 1: Tighten Your Big Blind Defense 01:57 Tip 2: Big Blind Three-Bet Strategy 06:30 Tip 3: Adjusting Ranges Based on Opponents 10:35 Tip 4: Tighten Up in High Rake Environments 12:43 Tip 5: Aggression Over Passivity 15:11 Announcement: Low Stakes Launch Pad Ready to take your poker game to the next level? In this week's poker strategy podcast, Upswing Poker VP Mike Brady teams up with Scottish poker pro Gary Blackwood to deliver five essential tips for mastering preflop play. Whether you're an aspiring pro or a recreational player, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to plug leaks in your game and exploit your opponent's weaknesses. The duo begins by addressing one of the most common leaks in poker: over-defending the big blind. With practical advice on hand selection and leveraging position, they help you save valuable big blinds in the long run. Next, they dive into the art of the big blind three-bet, showcasing how an aggressive and calculated approach can dominate opponents in both theory-based and exploitative scenarios. As the podcast progresses, you'll learn the importance of adjusting your ranges based on the players at your table. Whether you're up against loose-passive recreational players or aggressive pros, adaptability is key to staying ahead of the competition. Gary and Mike also explore the impact of high rake environments, emphasizing tighter ranges and smarter calls to maximize profitability. Closing out the episode, the hosts discuss the benefits of aggressive play and how erring on the side of aggression can turn the tide in your favor, especially in low stakes games. As they say, the best players are the ones who keep their opponents uncomfortable, and this poker strategy podcast teaches you exactly how to do that. They also announce the Low Stakes Launch Pad course, designed to provide foundational strategies for beating low stakes games. Available now in the Upswing Poker Lab, this course is a must-have for serious players.

We've extended our biggest sale of the year to run all the way through Cyber Week! Buy now and get 25% off elite poker courses & tools! The math behind poker might not seem glamorous, but few skills will affect your bottom line more than a correct understanding of pot odds! Upswing Poker VP Mike Brady previews the new Low Stakes Launch Pad course by sharing everything you need to build a solid foundation for understand this critical topic. You can join the Upswing Lab to access that course: https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coaching Audio version available on all major podcast platforms. View the episode transcription here. 00:00 Definition and Importance of Pot Odds 02:04 Converting Pot Odds to Percentages 02:56 Three-Step Process for Calculating Pot Odds 03:56 Practical Applications of Pot Odds 06:17 Using Pot Odds with Draws 09:29 Analyzing Pot Odds for River Bets 12:50 Limitations of Pot Odds 15:19 Recognizing Situations to Avoid with Pot Odds 16:48 Additional Factors to Consider with Pot Odds Dive into the intricacies of poker in this insightful poker strategy podcast episode focused on pot odds—a cornerstone of making profitable decisions at the table. Taken from the Low Stakes Launchpad course offered by Upswing Poker, this episode is a goldmine for players looking to sharpen their skills with actionable knowledge. The episode begins with a clear explanation of what pot odds are and their significance in poker strategy. Through a simple three-step process, you'll learn how to calculate pot odds, convert them into percentages, and use them to assess whether your hand is worth the call. From calculating the final pot size to understanding your "price to call," every step is broken down into digestible insights perfect for application during live games. This poker strategy podcast delves into practical examples, including preflop raises, facing all-ins with draws, and evaluating bets on the river. With concepts like the Rule of Two and Four for calculating draw equity and analyzing your opponent's range, listeners are guided through real-world scenarios to master pot odds in action. But the discussion doesn't stop at the basics. The episode highlights limitations of pot odds, such as multi-way pots and hands with poor playability on future streets. You'll also learn about critical concepts like equity realization, implied odds, and maintaining a competitive range, ensuring you avoid common traps that even seasoned players fall into. Perfect for poker enthusiasts and those new to the game, this poker strategy podcast is your gateway to understanding and leveraging the math behind poker for better results. If you're ready to level up your game, tune in now, and don't forget to explore the Low Stakes Launchpad course in the Upswing Poker Lab for a deeper dive into elite strategies.

Get 25% off elite poker courses & tools during the biggest sale of the year right now! Click here to shop now! You might be tempted to slow play the next time you have a monster hand, but that could be a huge mistake! Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood discuss how carefully choosing when to take your foot off the gas is the best strategy to ensure maximum profitability. Don't play another hand until you've listened to this episode! Audio version available on all major podcast platforms. View the episode transcription here. 00:00 Welcome to the Upswing Poker Level-Up 01:04 Preflop Slow Playing Strategies 03:59 Distinguishing Slow Playing from Pot Control 06:23 Avoiding Slow Playing Strong Hands in Position 07:49 Slow Playing from the Big Blind: Specific Scenarios 09:50 Fast Playing Monsters Out of Position 12:14 Adjusting to Opponent Bet Sizes When Slow Playing 14:06 Slow Playing in Three-Bet Pots: In Position vs. Out of Position 17:25 Trapping as the Preflop Aggressor 19:01 Adapting Strategies for Low Stakes and Passive Players 21:02 Black Friday Sale Reminder Welcome to another poker strategy podcast episode, where hosts Mike Brady and Scottish poker pro Gary Blackwood break down everything you need to know about slow playing. If you've ever wondered when to trap your opponents with monster hands—or when to avoid it altogether—this is the episode for you. Dive into advanced poker strategies starting with preflop slow playing, such as why you should sometimes call a four-bet with pocket aces or kings to maximize value. The discussion also covers the delicate balance between slow playing and pot control, helping you recognize when playing passively protects your stack and when it costs you money. This poker strategy podcast also examines the risks and rewards of slow playing on different board textures. Gary and Mike explain why betting three streets with strong hands is often the best move, but also reveal rare exceptions—like checking back top set on ace-high boards in single-raised pots. As the episode progresses, you'll uncover key tactics for fast playing out of position, the importance of reacting to opponent bet sizes, and how to adjust your strategies for three-bet pots. The duo even shares practical advice for adapting these solver-approved techniques to real-world games, including low-stakes live poker. Whether you're a beginner learning to recognize profitable traps or an experienced player refining your edge, this podcast delivers actionable insights on every aspect of slow playing. From appreciating your opponent's range to identifying key moments for aggression, you'll leave this episode with a stronger grasp of the nuances that separate amateurs from pros. Plus, don't miss the Black Friday sale at Upswing Poker, where you can get 25% off courses and tools designed by the game's top players. Level up your poker IQ today and join us as we explore the art—and science—of slow playing in this exciting episode!

You look down at your cards and see pocket aces. It's the best starting hand in poker, but how do you extract maximum value from your opponents? On this episode, Mike Brady talks with poker pro Gary Blackwood about the best practices for navigating pocket aces across a wide range of scenarios. If you like winning more money at the poker table, then you need to listen now! Want to dominate every situation at the poker table? Take advantage of Upswing Poker's upcoming Black Friday/Cyber Monday deal! Everything site-wide is 25% off starting on November 25th and running through the end of the month! If you haven't already please subscribe to the podcast and leave us a rating and a review! View the episode transcription here. 00:00 Introduction to Playing Pocket Aces 01:04 Optimal Preflop Strategies 04:11 Flop Tactics: Adjusting Based on Board Texture 07:05 Turn Play: When to Stay Aggressive or Slow Down 09:18 Closing Remarks and Black Friday Sale Information Dive into this episode of the premier poker strategy podcast with host Mike Brady and poker pro Gary Blackwood, where they unravel the secrets of mastering pocket aces—the best starting hand in Texas Hold'em. Whether you call them "bullets," "rockets," or "American Airlines," this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you extract maximum value and avoid costly mistakes. Starting with preflop play, Gary emphasizes the importance of aggressive strategies like raising and three-betting to build bigger pots. Learn why fast-playing aces is almost always the better option and when slow-playing can be a profitable exception, especially in deep-stack cash games and tournament settings. Moving to postflop play, the discussion covers key adjustments based on board textures, such as when to bet on favorable flops and when to play more passively on dynamic or connected boards that favor your opponent's range. On the turn, Gary offers guidance on knowing when to keep your foot on the gas and when to slow down, ensuring you maximize value without overcommitting in tricky spots. With real-world examples and solver-based insights, this episode equips you with the tools to play pocket aces like a pro. Looking to elevate your game even further? This poker strategy podcast highlights Upswing Poker's Black Friday/Cyber Monday sale, where you can access top-tier courses, tools, and training materials at 25% off. Whether you're a beginner looking for foundational strategies or an advanced player seeking cutting-edge solver insights, this is your chance to invest in your poker future. Don't miss this comprehensive episode packed with expert advice, practical tips, and insider knowledge. Tune in now to this poker strategy podcast and start dominating the tables with confidence. Subscribe for more episodes that dive deep into every aspect of the game, helping you become the best player you can be.

Winning poker, made simple. Pre-register for the Poker Blueprint here: https://upswingpoker.com/poker-blueprint-pre-registration/ Uri Peleg has spent thousands of hours studying poker. He's done more digging through solvers and tested more strategies than most players ever will. He's put his findings into practice and come out on top in high stakes games – and he's coached numerous players (through his Guerrilla Poker stable) to do the same. Uri has distilled his strategic approach into a simplified blueprint built on five core principles. Once you understand these principles, you'll be well-equipped to win money at the table. The Poker Blueprint is a 10+ hour course that teaches you these principles and shows you how to put them into practice. You don't have to know all the software and jargon to win the game. Check out the written version of this video: https://upswingpoker.com/uri-what-poker-training-gets-wrong/. 00:00 The Problems With Modern Poker Training 02:05 Balancing Study and Play 03:02 The Limits of Theoretical Approaches 04:11 Simplification and the Value of Flexibility 05:04 Adapting to Imperfect Opponents 06:06 First Principles Thinking 07:01 The Poker Blueprint In this poker strategy video, we dive into the current state of poker training and why many traditional approaches may not be delivering the results you expect. Does focusing too much on solvers and math help you in real-life poker games? This video highlights the drawbacks of hyper-theoretical strategies, showing that poker is a multidimensional game, far more complex than the charts and solvers suggest. The balance between study and play is essential for poker improvement. This poker strategy video explores why spending too much time on theoretical concepts can drain your motivation and energy, especially for players who enjoy playing the game more than studying it. Real-world poker decisions are often not about nailing the 0.01% differences, but about understanding broad concepts like opponent tendencies and adapting to dynamic in-game situations. You'll learn how modern poker training has become overly focused on tiny mathematical edges that don't translate well to real play. For instance, obsessing over making the perfect 0.01% move might cause you to overlook much bigger mistakes your opponents are making, losing sight of the larger picture. In this poker strategy video, we introduce a more intuitive approach—first principles thinking. This method allows you to understand poker on a deeper level, using logic and intuition without relying on solvers or math. The Poker Blueprint course is designed to simplify your approach to poker by focusing on overarching principles, giving you the tools you need to make solid, reliable decisions at the table. The goal is to help you understand the fundamental reasons behind every move without getting bogged down in solver-based analysis. You'll also learn how to integrate deception into your gameplay, balancing your range with your opponent's tendencies to ensure you're not too predictable. If you're interested in taking your poker game to the next level, check out the Poker Blueprint: https://upswingpoker.com/poker-blueprint-pre-registration/. This course distills years of experience from coaching top players into a concise framework that allows you to retain your mental bandwidth and make smart decisions in real-time. Plus, if you purchase the course in the first week, you'll receive a bonus: the Tournament Blueprint course, which applies these same principles to tournament play. Whether you're new to poker or a seasoned player, this course will enhance how you think about the game. Click the link above to learn more and start improving your poker strategy today!

Winning poker, made simple. Pre-register for the Poker Blueprint here: https://upswingpoker.com/poker-blueprint-pre-registration/ It's a high stakes cash game at The Lodge studio featuring two players who are no strangers to playing $50,000+ pots, Doug Polk and Mariano. Poker coach Uri Peleg breaks down the hand using the strategic framework taught in his new course the Poker Blueprint. One of the players makes a big mistake on the river in this one. Uri Peleg has spent thousands of hours studying poker. He's done more digging through solvers and tested more strategies than most players ever will. He's put his findings into practice and come out on top in high stakes games – and he's coached numerous players (through his stable) to do the same. Uri has distilled his strategic approach into a simplified blueprint built on five core principles. Once you understand these principles, you'll be well-equipped to win money at the table. The Poker Blueprint is a 10+ hour course that teaches you these principles and shows you how to put them into practice. You don't have to know all the software and jargon to win the game. Check out the written version of this video: https://upswingpoker.com/doug-vs-mariano-blueprint/ 00:00 Intro, Overview, Poker Blueprint Ad 02:32 Analysis of the Hand: Flop and Turn Strategy 04:52 Turn Changes and Pot Size Considerations 06:04 River Analysis and Decision-Making 08:05 Evaluating Mistakes and Optimal Play 09:21 Conclusion and Upcoming Content Join Uri Peleg as he breaks down a thrilling poker hand between Doug Polk and Mariano in this intense high-stakes game! In this video, you'll dive deep into the intricate details of poker strategy, focusing on a critical mistake that could cost big at the table. Uri Peleg, a seasoned poker pro, shares his expert insights on how to avoid such mistakes, using this hand as a teaching tool. He highlights the significance of understanding the ranges and decision-making at each stage of the game, offering viewers practical tips to enhance their skills. Uri Peleg analyzes this action-packed hand, starting with a squeeze from Doug with King-Queen suited and a cold four-bet from Mariano holding pocket Kings. The flop reveals Queen-Six-Four rainbow, a board that heavily favors the pre-flop aggressor, Mariano. Uri explains how Doug's decision to check aligns with the optimal strategy and how Mariano's small bet serves to disguise his hand strength. Uri Peleg poker strategy emphasizes the importance of understanding the ranges and adjusting pot sizes accordingly. As the turn card, Jack of Hearts, appears, the dynamics of the hand change significantly. Mariano now has to adjust his strategy, valuing his Kings differently due to potential hands that could beat him. Uri highlights that Doug, with a flush draw, needs to reassess his approach, aiming for a modestly-sized pot rather than pushing aggressively. The river brings the Five of Diamonds, and Uri explains why this seemingly innocuous card still has implications for both players' ranges. Uri Peleg's poker strategy comes to life as he discusses how Doug's decision to bet 15k might have been too aggressive given the range of hands that Mariano could have. Uri then focuses on Mariano's quick decision to call, analyzing why this could be considered a mistake. He points out that while Mariano's Kings are strong, a snap call might not be the best move without thoroughly considering all the possible scenarios. If you want to dive deeper into the nuances of advanced poker strategy, Uri has a new Upswing course coming out, which is perfect for players of all levels. Stay tuned for more videos, and don't forget to check out "The Poker Blueprint" for a comprehensive guide to mastering the game.

HAND RECAP (7 handed, 14 players left, 600K/1.2M blinds - 1.2M BB ante) Coelho (13.3M chips) raises to 2.4M with A♦ A♣. Kristen Foxen (49M chips) calls in the Big Blind with K♦ K♣. Flop A♠ T♥ 5♠. Foxen checks. Coelho bets 1.2M. Foxen calls. Turn 8♥. Foxen checks. Coelho bets 3M. Foxen calls. River 3♣. Foxen checks. Coelho bets 6.7M all-in. Foxen folds. There's $10 million on the line with just 2 tables left in the World Series of Poker Main Event. Kristen Foxen is one of, if not the most talented players left in the tournament, but she runs into the nightmare "Pocket Kings vs Pocket Aces" scenario in this hand. Can she sometimes find a way to NOT double up her opponent? Get 33% off Aaron Barone's exclusive training content in the Upswing Lab during the Vegas Winners Sale* at https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coaching *Expires when the 2024 WSOP Main Event ends! Watch the full final table at https://www.pokergo.com/ Written Version of This Episode 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:26 Coelho's Min Raise with Pocket Aces 03:12 Kristen Foxen's Decision with Pocket Kings 05:38 Flop Analysis: Ace-Ten-Five 08:06 Turn Play and Strategy with the Eight of Hearts 11:48 River Decisions and Final Moves 14:20 Post-Hand Analysis and Key Takeaways 16:47 Upswing Lab Promotion and Conclusion In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Aaron Barone analyze a dramatic hand from the World Series of Poker Main Event where pocket Aces face off against pocket Kings. With just 14 players remaining and a $10 million first prize at stake, every decision is crucial. This hand, involving an 11 big blind effective stack, unfolds in a surprising way that offers listeners a deep dive into the strategic complexities of tournament poker at the highest level. The discussion begins by setting the stage for this intense showdown. Coelho, sitting on a short stack of 11 big blinds, opts to min-raise with pocket Aces instead of shoving all-in, a decision aimed at enticing action from his opponents. Mike and Aaron explore the merits of this approach, weighing the potential benefits of a smaller raise against the risks of allowing more players to see a flop. They discuss how this unconventional play can maximize value and create opportunities for trapping. As the action unfolds, the focus shifts to Kristen Foxen in the big blind, who holds pocket Kings. With a middling stack of 40 big blinds, she faces a tough decision against a small raise. Aaron explains why flat-calling with Kings, rather than reraising, can be a powerful tool in this situation, especially when considering the Independent Chip Model (ICM) pressure and the dynamics of stack sizes at a final table. The podcast delves into the complexities of post-flop play, with Coelho hitting top set on an Ace-high flop and Kristen navigating a tricky situation with her Kings. Mike and Aaron break down the decision-making process on each street, discussing the importance of continuation betting, the psychological aspects of slowing down with a strong hand, and the nuances of extracting value without giving away too much information. This poker strategy podcast offers listeners a masterclass in final table play, highlighting the importance of balancing aggression with caution and understanding the motivations behind each move. Whether you're an aspiring pro or a seasoned player, this episode provides valuable insights into high-stakes tournament strategy, helping you sharpen your skills and make better decisions under pressure. Tune in to learn from the pros and elevate your poker game to the next level.

HAND RECAP (6 handed, final table, 300K/600K blinds - 600K BB ante) Ben Tollerene (55M chips) raises to 1.2M from UTG with J♣ T♦. Taylor von Kriegenbergh (22M chips) calls from the Button with K♠ K♥. (Stack size notes: This is a battle between the top two stacks. There are two short stacked players with around 10 big blinds each.) Flop K♣ 6♦ 3♥. Tollerene bets 900K. TVK calls. Turn 9♥. Tollerene bets 1.7M. TVK calls. River Q♦. Tollerene 2.8M. TVK raises to 8.8M. Tollerene moves all-in. TVK calls 9.3M more. Get 33% off Aaron Barone's exclusive training content in the Upswing Lab during the WSOP Winners Sale* at https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coaching *Expires when the 2024 WSOP Main Event ends! Watch the full final table at https://www.pokergo.com/ Written Version of This Episode 00:00 Introduction and Overview 02:30 Discussion of Tyler Von Kriegenbergh's Flat with Pocket Kings 04:29 Flop Analysis: Top Set vs. Air Ball 06:22 Turn Strategy: Straight Draw Development 08:19 River Decision: Nut Straight vs. Top Set 10:46 Evaluating the All-In and Call Scenarios 12:55 Final Thoughts on ICM Pressure and Strategy 14:34 Conclusion and Upswing Lab Promo In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Aaron Barone dissect an intense hand from the $250,000 Super High Roller tournament at the World Series of Poker (WSOP). With over $5 million on the line for the winner, the stakes couldn't be higher, and this hand showcases the complexities and high-pressure decisions that define top-level poker. Mike and Aaron walk listeners through each stage of the hand, breaking down the moves and thought processes of the players involved to provide a comprehensive analysis. The hand begins with Ben Tollerene, the overwhelming chip leader, raising under the gun with Jack-Ten offsuit, a decision influenced by his deep stack and ability to apply pressure on the shorter stacks at the table. The discussion moves to Tyler Von Kriegenbergh's choice to flat-call with pocket Kings on the button, a move that sets the stage for a dynamic post-flop battle. Aaron explains why this call, rather than a three-bet, maximizes value by potentially inducing action from the blinds or allowing Tollerene to barrel into him with weaker hands. Listeners will learn about the critical decision points as the board develops with a King-High flop, where Von Kriegenbergh flops top set against Tollerene's air. The hosts explore the nuances of continuation betting and sizing, discussing how Tollerene's small bets keep his opponent's range wide and how Von Kriegenbergh's flat calls are designed to trap and extract maximum value. As the hand progresses to the turn and river, the dynamics shift dramatically when Tollerene completes a nut straight, leading to a series of tough decisions for Von Kriegenbergh. This poker strategy podcast delves into key concepts such as ICM pressure, stack size management, and the psychological aspects of making high-stakes decisions under intense scrutiny. Mike and Aaron also discuss alternative strategies, like potential check-raising lines and the merits of betting small versus large, depending on the situation. Tune in to this episode of our poker strategy podcast for an in-depth look at how to navigate complex final table scenarios and improve your understanding of high-stakes tournament play. Whether you're preparing for your next big tournament or simply enjoy learning from the pros, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice to elevate your game.

HAND RECAP (5 handed, final table, 100K/200K blinds - 200K BB ante) Viktor "Isildur1" Blom (14M chips) raises to 700K from the Small Blind with K♦ 4♠. Jesse Lonis (9.5M chips) calls from the Big Blind with A♠ 3♠. (Stack size notes: Blom and Lonis are in 2nd and 3rd chip position. The chip leader has 20M. There are two relatively short stacks.) The flop is 4♣ 4♥ 3♣. Blom bets 400K. Lonis calls. Turn 6♠. Blom bets 1.45M. Lonis calls. River Q♠. Blom bets 3.25M. Lonis folds. Get 33% off Aaron Barone's exclusive training content in the Upswing Lab during the WSOP Winners Sale* at https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coaching *Expires when the 2024 WSOP Main Event ends! Watch the full final table at https://www.pokergo.com/ Written Version of This Episode 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:29 Viktor Blom's Strategy from the Small Blind 03:21 Jesse Lonis's Big Blind Defense with Ace-Three 04:13 Flop Analysis: Viktor's Trips vs. Jesse's Pair 05:39 Turn Play: Analyzing the Six of Spades 07:09 River Decision: Queen of Spades and Viktor's Bet 11:03 Jesse's Tough River Call or Fold 14:30 Final Thoughts and Tournament Updates 15:31 Upswing Lab Promo and Conclusion In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, host Mike Brady is joined by tournament pro Aaron Barone to analyze a thrilling hand from the $50,000 buy-in tournament at the World Series of Poker (WSOP). With $2 million on the line for the winner, the stakes are incredibly high, and the episode offers listeners a front-row seat to a deep dive into the key decisions and strategies at play during this final table showdown. The discussion begins with the setup of the hand featuring Viktor Blom, known as "Isildur1," facing off against Jesse Lonis. With only five players left, each player has secured nearly $500,000, but all eyes are on the top prize. Viktor Blom, holding King-four offsuit, decides to apply pressure on Jesse Lonis, who holds Ace-three of spades in the big blind. The hosts explore the dynamics of this decision, emphasizing how Blom leverages his big stack to exploit the smaller stacks at the table. As the hand progresses, listeners are walked through the action from the flop to the river, where Blom's aggressive playstyle and calculated bets put Lonis in a challenging spot. The podcast highlights the complexities of tournament play, particularly in a final table setting, where decisions are influenced by Independent Chip Model (ICM) considerations, stack sizes, and the potential pay jumps. Mike and Aaron examine the critical turn and river decisions, discussing the nuances of continuation betting, sizing strategies, and the balancing act between value betting and bluffing. This poker strategy podcast offers insights into how elite players like Blom navigate high-pressure situations, using both fundamental principles and creative tactics to outmaneuver their opponents. Tune in to this poker strategy podcast to gain a deeper understanding of advanced tournament strategy, learn how to adjust your play based on varying stack sizes, and pick up practical tips to enhance your decision-making under pressure. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a recreational player looking to sharpen your skills, this episode provides valuable lessons from some of the game's top minds.

HAND RECAP (6 handed, final table, 125K/250K blinds - 250K BB ante) Ausmus (4.5M chips) raises to 500K from the Cutoff with A♥ Q♥. Only Reichard (3.2M chips) calls from the Big Blind with J♥ 8♣. (Stack size notes: Reichard is the shortest stack. Ausmus is one of the shorter stacks, but everyone besides the chip leader has fewer than 30 big blinds. The chip leader has around 18M.) Flop T♣ 3♣ 2♣. Reichard checks. Ausmus bets 300K. Reichard calls. Turn 7♠. Both players check. River 2♠. Reichard bets 2.1M into 2M. Ausmus calls with just Ace-high. Get access to Aaron Barone's exclusive training content in the Upswing Lab: https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coaching Watch the full final table at https://www.pokergo.com/ Written Version of This Episode 00:00 Introduction to Tournament Tips 04:23 Tip 2: Defend Your Big Blind Often 08:42 Tip 3: Be Cautious with Three-Bet Bluffing 11:02 Tip 4: Adjust Your Three-Betting with Deep Stacks 13:21 Tip 5: Smart Continuation Betting 18:08 Tip 6: Plan for Future Streets 21:06 Tip 7: Learn Basic Heads-Up Play In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, host Mike Brady presents seven critical tips to elevate your tournament poker game. Drawing from the expertise of Miikka Anttonen, a renowned Finnish poker player, this episode provides actionable insights to help you run deeper and play more confidently in poker tournaments. The podcast begins with Tip 1, focusing on raising frequently when the action folds to you. Mike explains why small raises, particularly with antes in play, can be highly profitable even with marginal hands, and how to adjust your raising range based on the tendencies of the players in the blinds. Listeners will learn the importance of understanding the math behind these moves and how to exploit different player types effectively. In Tip 2, the emphasis shifts to defending your big blind more often. Mike breaks down the pot odds calculations and explains why you should call more frequently, especially against smaller raises. He also discusses how to adjust your defense strategy in multi-way pots and why you should avoid over-defending against stronger opponents. Tip 3 highlights the dangers of three-bet bluffing with middling stacks, where Mike outlines which hands to choose for three-bet bluffs and why understanding stack size dynamics is crucial in these spots. Tip 4 continues with adjustments for deep stack play, where Mike recommends adopting a cash game-like approach to three-betting, focusing on a linear range to maintain balance and avoid predictability. The podcast also delves into smart continuation betting in Tip 5, where Mike offers guidance on when to bet, check, or fold based on the board texture and the ranges of both you and your opponent. Tip 6 emphasizes the importance of planning for future streets, advising players to think ahead about possible turn and river scenarios to avoid tricky spots and make better decisions Finally, Tip 7 encourages players to learn basic heads-up strategies, even if heads-up play is rare. Mike explains why being prepared for the final showdown is vital to securing the top prize in tournaments, underscoring the significance of understanding heads-up dynamics. This poker strategy podcast is packed with valuable tips for tournament players at all levels, offering practical advice on how to refine your strategy, exploit your opponents, and make smarter decisions to maximize your success. Tune in to learn how to level up your game and navigate the complexities of tournament poker with confidence.

HAND #1 (8 handed, in the money, blinds 10K/25K - 25K BB ante) Reard (740K stack) raises to 50K with Q♣ J♠ from middle position. Kornuth (2.2M stack) folds A♣ 9♥ from Small Blind. Deeb (990K stack) calls 6♠ 3♠ from Big Blind. Flop T♠ 9♣ 3♣. Deeb checks. Reard bets 45K. Deeb calls. Turn A♠. Deeb checks. Reard bets 135K. Deeb all-in for 645K effective. Reard folds. HAND #2 (7 handed, in the money, blinds 15K/30K - 30K BB ante) Bleznick (1.9M stack) calls in the Small Blind with A♣ Q♠. Schulman (1.6M stack) checks with 6♥ 2♣. Flop 9♥ 9♣ 4♣. Bleznick checks. Schulman bets 30K into 90K. Bleznick calls. Turn 7♥. Bleznick checks. Schulman bets 150K. Bleznick calls. River 5♥. Bleznick checks. Schulman bets 350K. Bleznick folds. Get access to Aaron Barone's exclusive training content in the Upswing Lab: https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coaching Written Version of This Episode Watch the full final table at https://www.pokergo.com/ 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:36 Evaluating Ace-Jack in the Big Blind 03:33 Analyzing Check Raise Decisions 04:56 Turn Play Strategy with Bluff Catchers 06:38 River Decisions and Stack Management 11:22 Hand 2: Ace-Ten Hand Analysis 19:11 Adjusting for Different Stack Sizes 25:36 Strategies for Final Table ICM Pressure 30:08 Conclusion and Future Episodes In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Aaron Barone, a tournament poker pro and Upswing Poker coach, analyze two pivotal hands from a $1,500 buy-in six-max final table event at the World Series of Poker (WSOP). With over $400,000 up for grabs, they break down each street of these high-stakes hands, providing valuable insights on how to navigate critical decisions in a final table setting. The podcast begins with an in-depth analysis of the first hand, where a strong player raises under the gun with King-Queen offsuit. Aaron discusses why three-betting or folding is preferable over calling in this scenario, especially given the Independent Chip Model (ICM) pressure. The hosts debate the merits of different actions, from folding to calling and raising, while considering the pay jumps and stack dynamics at play. Next, the focus shifts to a hand involving Ace-Jack in the big blind, where the player faces a continuation bet on a tough board. Mike and Aaron explore whether check-raising or flatting is the optimal move, considering both the ICM dynamics and the overall strength of the hand in the context of the final table. They discuss the merits of disguise and balancing ranges, especially in situations where opponent behavior is unpredictable. As the episode continues, the hosts dive into advanced concepts such as leading with bluff catchers, stack management, and adjusting for different board textures. This poker strategy podcast offers a detailed breakdown of how to handle turn and river play, including when to slow play and when to induce bluffs, all while considering the high-pressure environment of a final table. The episode wraps up with a second hand analysis, featuring an Ace-Ten hand and a series of tough decisions regarding stack sizes and final table ICM pressure. Aaron provides insights into how to navigate these complex scenarios, offering listeners practical advice on adjusting their strategies for various tournament situations. Tune in to this poker strategy podcast to learn how to make the right moves under pressure and refine your approach to critical final table decisions. Whether you're a seasoned tournament pro or an aspiring grinder, this episode is packed with valuable lessons to help you elevate your game.

Let's analyze WSOP final table hands with over $400K on the line! Want to fast-track your tournament poker skills? Get in the Upswing Lab to get access to Aaron Barone's exclusive training content: https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coaching/ Written Version of This Episode Event #12 $1,500 6-Max Payouts: 1st - $439K | 2nd - $293K | 3rd - $210K | 4th - $153K | 5th - $112K | 6th - $83K | 7th - 63K HAND #1 (7 players left 100K/200K blinds - 200K BB ante) Spasov raises to 400K from UTG w/ T♦ T♣. Dube folds K♦ Q♥ from UTG+1. Only Fan calls from BB with A♠ J♥. (Stack size notes: Spasov has 8M chips and is in 5th. Dube has 9M chips and is in 3rd. Fan has 11.5M chips and is in 2nd. There is a very short stack with 1.3M chips.) Flop J♣ T♠ 3♦. Fan checks. Spasov bets 350K. Fan calls. Turn 3♥. Fan leads for 500K. Spasov calls. River 2♦. Fan bets 850K. Spasov raises all-in for 4.45M. Fan calls. HAND #2 (5 players left 150K/300K blinds - 300K BB ante) Fan raises to 650K from the Button w/ A♣ 6♣. Spasov calls from the SB w/ 9♥ 8♥. Dube calls from the BB w/ 4♦ 2♦. (Stack size notes: Fan has 8M chips and is in 3rd. Spasov has 21M in chips and is in 2nd. Dube has 6M in chips and is in 4th. The shortest stack has 3M chips. Flop A♠ T♦ 5♠. Checks around. Turn J♦. Spasov bets 1.1M. Dube folds his straight+flush draw. Fan calls. River 8♣. Spasov bets 5.7M all-in (1.3x pot). Fan folds. Watch the full final table at https://www.pokergo.com/ 00:00 Introduction and Overview 02:52 Evaluating Ace-Jack in the Big Blind 04:54 Turn Play Strategy with Bluff Catchers 06:38 River Decisions and Stack Management 11:23 Hand 2: Ace-Ten Hand Analysis 19:12 Adjusting for Different Stack Sizes 25:36 Strategies for Final Table ICM Pressure 30:08 Conclusion and Future Episodes In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and special guest Aaron Barone, a tournament poker pro and Upswing Poker coach, analyze two pivotal hands from a $1,500 buy-in six-max final table event at the World Series of Poker (WSOP). With over $400,000 on the line for the winner, they break down each street of these critical hands, providing insights on how to navigate high-pressure situations at the final table. The podcast begins with a detailed examination of the first hand, featuring a tough decision by a player holding King-Queen offsuit under the gun. Aaron explains why three-betting or folding is generally preferable to flatting in this scenario, especially given the ICM (Independent Chip Model) pressure at the final table. The hosts also discuss the importance of understanding your opponent's range and the strategic implications of different betting decisions, such as how to disguise the strength of your hand and induce bluffs from opponents. Next, Mike and Aaron move on to analyze a hand involving Ace-Jack in the big blind, facing a continuation bet on a tricky board. They debate the merits of flatting versus check-raising, considering the potential benefits of slow-playing top pair in a final table environment. Aaron emphasizes how ICM considerations drastically alter the optimal play compared to a Chip EV (Expected Value) scenario, guiding players to a more conservative approach to maximize their chance of winning significant pay jumps. As they move through the analysis, the hosts explore advanced concepts such as leading with bluff catchers on certain turn cards, how board textures can impact betting strategy, and why sometimes small leads can induce bluffs or extract value from weaker hands. This poker strategy podcast episode is filled with practical takeaways on adjusting your play style based on stack sizes, opponent tendencies, and final table dynamics. Tune in to this episode to learn from the pros as they break down these high-stakes WSOP hands and provide actionable insights to help elevate your poker game. Whether you're an experienced tournament grinder or just getting started, this poker strategy podcast offers valuable lessons on how to make the right moves under pressure.

[REBROADCAST] Poker tournaments are a grind and you have to have a lot of different skills to succeed in them. Four time WPT champion Darren Elias joins Mike Brady in this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up to share some tips for your tournament strategy. Darren's tournament master class Road to Victory is 30% off on UpswingPoker.com until the end of this week! Save even more by opting for a course bundle. Upgrade your skills now at https://upswingpoker.com/wsot-sale/ Darren created his advanced course in collaboration with his longtime friend Nick Petrangelo. Darren and Nick have combined for over $65 million in tournament earnings and they reveal the tactics that got them there in the Road to Victory course. Written Version of this Episode | Video Version of this Episode Subscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

This podcast reveals the truth about blockers in poker. Upgrade your tournament skills and save up to 51% during the World Series of Tournaments sale at Upswing Poker https://upswingpoker.com/wsot-sale/ Blockers are a fundamental part of poker strategy, but they're also one of the most misunderstood parts of poker strategy. Many players disregard blockers and leave money on the table. Other players over-value blockers in certain situations and flush money down the toilet as a result. ***CORRECTION 11:36*** Gary meant to say "where your opponent's FOLDING range is Jacks and Tens" (he mistakenly said calling) Article Version of this Episode 00:00 Introduction to Rake Strategy 02:14 Rake Structures Around the World 03:55 Adjusting Strategies for High Rake Games 05:14 Tightening Big Blind Defense in High Rake 08:31 Adjusting for Multi-Way Pots and Rake 13:14 Additional Tips for Playing in Raked Games 16:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 20:29 Importance of Chopping the Blinds In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood discuss the impact of rake on your game and how to adjust your strategy to beat it. Rake, the fee taken by the house from each pot, can significantly affect your profitability, especially in low-stakes games where the percentage of the pot taken can be quite high. Understanding how to adjust your play based on the rake structure is crucial for any serious poker player, whether you're playing live or online. The episode begins with an overview of different rake structures, from high-rake environments, where more than four big blinds are taken out of the pot, to low-rake games and even no-rake games, like home games or those with time-based seat fees. Mike and Gary explain how these different environments impact your pot odds and strategic incentives, emphasizing the need to adjust your strategy accordingly to avoid leaving money on the table. Listeners will learn how to tighten their ranges and adopt a more aggressive approach in high-rake games. Gary shares his tips for three-betting more frequently and trimming marginal hands from your defending range to counteract the impact of rake. The hosts also explore how to adjust when playing in low or no-rake games, allowing for a looser style and taking advantage of the extra equity available in these more favorable settings. This poker strategy podcast also covers the importance of understanding your opponents' tendencies and using this information to make more profitable decisions. Mike and Gary highlight the benefits of playing tighter in multi-way pots and discuss when to fold or adjust your strategies based on the rake and your opponents' actions. Finally, the hosts provide insights into additional adjustments you should make in different rake environments, such as chopping the blinds in high-rake games to minimize the money lost to the house. Whether you're grinding micro stakes online or playing in a home game with no rake, this episode provides practical advice to help you navigate any poker environment. Tune in to this poker strategy podcast to learn how to beat the rake and maximize your win rate with expert guidance from Mike and Gary.

They're taking your money. Here's what you can do about it. Upgrade your tournament skills and save up to 51% during the World Series of Tournaments sale at Upswing Poker https://upswingpoker.com/wsot-sale/ You may be surprised to learn that these different rake structures should impact the way you play. Put simply, when money is being taken out of the pot, your pot odds and strategic incentives change. If you're playing the same regardless of the rake structure, you're likely leaving money on the table. But you won't make that mistake after finishing this episode. Written Version of this Episode 00:00 Introduction to Rake Strategy 02:16 Global Perspectives on High Rake 03:55 Adjustments for High Rake Games 05:11 Tight Aggressive Play in High Rake Environments 06:52 Defending Big Blind in High Rake Scenarios 08:30 Exploiting Low Rake and No Rake Games 11:20 Multi-Way Pot Adjustments in High Rake Games 13:13 Big Blind Defense in Multi-Way Pots 16:36 No Rake Strategies and Conclusion In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood tackle a critical yet often overlooked aspect of the game: the rake. Understanding how to adjust your strategy based on the rake structure is essential for any serious poker player, whether you're grinding low-stakes cash games or playing in high-stakes tournaments. This episode is packed with practical tips and insights that will help you adapt to different rake environments, ensuring you don't leave money on the table. The podcast begins with an overview of various rake structures, from high-rake environments where four or more big blinds are taken from the pot, to low-rake games where two big blinds or less are deducted. Gary shares his experiences from different poker scenes worldwide, highlighting how rake impacts the profitability of various games. He explains that understanding the specifics of the rake in your game is crucial, as it directly affects your pot odds and strategic decisions. Listeners will learn how to adjust their play in high-rake games, where adopting a tight-aggressive style can help mitigate the impact of the rake. Mike and Gary discuss why it's often necessary to three-bet more frequently rather than calling, especially when facing raises. They also cover strategies for defending the big blind and the importance of trimming marginal hands from your defending range to avoid bleeding chips in high-rake settings. The episode also explores how to exploit low-rake or no-rake games, where you can afford to play a much looser style and take advantage of the extra equity available. Gary provides insights into adjusting your pre-flop ranges, defending more hands, and how to take full advantage of soft games with favorable rake conditions. This poker strategy podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to optimize their game based on rake conditions. Whether you're battling it out in a high-rake environment or enjoying the benefits of a low-rake home game, the insights shared in this episode will help you make smarter decisions and maximize your winnings. Tune in to learn how to beat the rake and level up your poker strategy with Mike and Gary.

This episode reveals 7 fundamental tips for poker tournaments that will help you run deep more often and play more confidently. The advice ranges from preflop tactics to postflop strategies. Pay close attention if you want to build bigger stacks and win tournaments! Want to upgrade your tournament skills with elite coaching? Save up to 51% on best-selling courses made by millionaire tournament pros during the World Series of Tournaments sale at UpswingPoker.com. Article Version of this Episode 00:00 Introduction to Tournament Tips 04:23 Tip 2: Defend Your Big Blind Often 08:41 Tip 3: Be Cautious with Three-Bet Bluffing 11:02 Tip 4: Adjust Your Three-Betting with Deep Stacks 13:21 Tip 5: Smart Continuation Betting 18:08 Tip 6: Plan for Future Streets 21:07 Tip 7: Learn Basic Heads-Up Play 23:24 Conclusion and Promotions In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, host Mike Brady shares seven essential tournament tips to help you make deeper runs and boost your confidence in competitive settings. Drawing insights from the teachings of Miikka Anttonen, a respected Finnish poker pro, this episode is packed with actionable strategies for every stage of the tournament, from early positioning to heads-up play. The episode starts with Tip 1: raising frequently when the action folds to you. Mike discusses the importance of leveraging small raises, especially when antes are in play, to build your stack efficiently. He explains why raising often can be profitable, even with marginal hands, and how to adjust based on the tendencies of opponents in the blinds. Listeners will learn the balance between aggression and caution, ensuring they remain unpredictable while maintaining a solid strategy. Moving on to Tip 2, Mike emphasizes the significance of defending your big blind more frequently. He breaks down the math behind pot odds and the value of calling with a wide range, especially against small raises. However, he cautions against over-defending, especially in multi-way pots, where hand strength can be deceiving. In Tip 3, the focus shifts to three-bet bluffing with middling stacks, where Mike outlines the types of hands that work best in this context and how to avoid costly mistakes when facing a four-bet shove. Tip 4 continues the theme of three-betting but adapts it to deep stack play, advocating a more cash-game-like approach with a merged range to maintain a balanced and unpredictable strategy. The podcast further explores continuation betting in Tip 5, where Mike advises against betting every hand on every board. Instead, he encourages players to consider factors like range advantage and opponent tendencies to craft more effective continuation bet strategies. Tip 6 highlights the importance of planning for future streets, emphasizing the need for a solid game plan to avoid tricky spots and capitalize on favorable scenarios. Finally, Tip 7 dives into the often overlooked but crucial aspect of heads-up play. Mike explains why even a basic understanding of heads-up strategy can lead to significant pay jumps in tournaments, underscoring the importance of preparation This poker strategy podcast provides a comprehensive guide to mastering tournament play, helping you refine your strategy, stay ahead of the competition, and ultimately aim for those top prizes. Tune in, learn, and level up your poker game with these proven tournament tactics.

You must make strategic adjustments, both before and after the flop, when there's a straddle in play. Otherwise, you're simply leaving money on the table. Pots are much bigger and stacks will be flying back and forth, so it's critical you get this close to right in-game. Want to improve your tournament skills? Save up to 51% on best-selling courses made by millionaire tournament pros during the World Series of Tournaments sale at UpswingPoker.com Written Version of this Episode 00:00 Introduction to Straddle Strategy 01:19 Adjusting Pre-Flop Raise Sizes with a Straddle 02:31 Playing in Games with Variable Straddles 03:18 Tightening Pre-Flop Ranges in Straddled Pots 04:22 Example Pre-Flop Ranges for Straddle Situations 06:31 Post-Flop Strategy Adjustments with a Straddle 07:49 Short Stack Adjustments in Straddle Games 09:15 Final Thoughts and Promotions In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood dive deep into the art of playing effectively when there's a straddle in play. The straddle is a common but often misunderstood move in both live and online poker games, where a player voluntarily puts in a blind bet, effectively doubling the stakes and creating unique dynamics that can significantly impact your strategy. Mike and Gary explore the key adjustments you need to make pre-flop and post-flop to maximize your profits when facing a straddle, offering insights that apply to both cash games and tournaments. The episode begins by explaining the different types of straddles and their impact on gameplay. Gary highlights the importance of adjusting your pre-flop raise sizes when a straddle is in play. He recommends reducing your open size, much like you would in a deep-stack tournament, to compensate for the effective reduction in stack depth caused by the straddle. This poker strategy podcast also covers the need to tighten your opening ranges, particularly when you have more players to worry about behind you who are more likely to defend their blinds or three-bet aggressively. Listeners will gain practical advice on how to adjust their strategy based on the specific type of straddle they are facing, whether it's a standard under-the-gun straddle, a Mississippi straddle, or other variations. The hosts discuss the importance of playing tighter and stronger ranges, particularly in high-stakes games where stacks are deep, and the straddle has a more pronounced effect on effective stack size. They also explore the differences between playing in games with static and variable straddles, offering tips on how to navigate these dynamic environments. As the conversation progresses, Mike and Gary delve into post-flop strategy adjustments. They discuss why continuation bet sizes should generally be smaller when a straddle is in play and how to make the most of your positional advantage. This poker strategy podcast also addresses the challenges of playing with shorter stacks due to the straddle, offering tips for maneuvering in these situations and maximizing your skill edge over less experienced opponents. Tune in to this episode to learn how to effectively adjust your game when a straddle is in play, capitalize on opponents' mistakes, and enhance your overall poker strategy. Whether you're a cash game regular or a tournament grinder, this poker strategy podcast provides valuable insights to help you dominate in straddle situations.

This podcast will help you win more money with hands like pocket aces, kings and queens! Poker pro Gary Blackwood shares his top 5 tips for playing overpairs in No Limit Hold'em. These tips will help you get better results with your strong overpairs like Aces on a King-high flop, as well as your vulnerable overpairs like Pocket Eights on a Seven-high flop. Get Gary Blackwood's master class on making money with overpairs inside the Upswing Lab training course. Use coupon code LEVELUP to get $50 off at: https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coaching Written Version of this Episode 00:00 Introduction to Overpairs Strategy 03:08 Tip 2: Adjusting Strategy Based on Position 04:55 Tip 3: The Ladder Effect in Bet Frequency 07:55 Tip 4: Responding to Check Raises with Overpairs 09:25 Tip 5: Overpair Strategy in Four-Bet Pots 12:24 Advanced Play: Small Raise in Four-Bet Pots 14:42 Tangent: Differentiating Between Rainbow and Flush Draw Boards 16:19 Final Thoughts and Course Promotion In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood delve into the intricacies of playing overpairs in No-Limit Hold'em cash games. Overpairs like pocket aces, kings, and queens can be incredibly profitable, but only if you know how to navigate the various scenarios that arise during gameplay. Gary, a seasoned poker pro, shares his top five tips to help you maximize your earnings and minimize your losses with overpairs in single-raised pots, three-bet pots, and even four-bet pots. The podcast begins with a discussion on playing overpairs in single-raised pots, where the stack-to-pot ratio is high, and board texture plays a crucial role. Gary explains why you should often check your strongest overpairs on unfavorable boards to avoid overcommitting in tricky situations. He introduces the concept of the "ladder effect," explaining why lower overpairs, such as eights or nines, should be bet more frequently than higher ones like aces, which require less protection from overcards. Next, the hosts explore how your position—whether you're in or out—affects your betting strategy with overpairs. Mike uses the Lucid GTO trainer to demonstrate how bet sizes and frequencies should change based on your position, showing that checking more frequently out of position helps build a balanced and unexploitable strategy. Listeners will also learn how to play overpairs effectively in three-bet pots by adopting a robust check-raising strategy, especially when out of position. Gary discusses why it's often correct to play aggressively with hands like queens and jacks in tighter three-bet scenarios but to avoid doing so in looser, single-raised pots where the ranges are wider. The episode then moves into four-bet pot strategies, where the stack-to-pot ratio is much smaller, and players are generally more willing to get all the money in with their overpairs. Gary outlines when to shove and when to use smaller raises, depending on the board texture and the strength of your hand. This poker strategy podcast is packed with actionable insights, perfect for anyone looking to refine their approach to playing overpairs. Tune in, learn from the experts, and take your cash game strategy to the next level with tips that are sure to improve your performance at the table.

What separates a great poker player from a good poker player is often bet sizing. Knowing how to size your bets like a studied pro allows you to make more money with your strong hands and run more effective bluffs. This episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up will help you improve your bet sizing skills with 3 example situations posed as quiz questions. In all of these spots, you will play as the in position player who 3-bet before the flop. Upgrade your poker game by practicing against a "perfect" opponent who gives you instant feedback with the Lucid GTO Trainer. Get it now at: https://upswingpoker.com/lucid-gto-trainer/ Written Version of this Episode 00:00 Introduction and Overview 02:53 Strategies for Betting in Position vs. Out of Position 06:52 Hypothetical Hand #2: Playing Ace-Queen Offsuit on an Ace-King-Three Board 09:44 Optimal Bet Sizes on Dynamic Flops 12:22 Dealing with Overpairs and Top Pairs on Draw-Heavy Boards 13:42 Adjusting Strategy for Different Textures and Opponents 15:25 Use of Tools for Board Analysis In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood present a unique bet-sizing quiz designed to test your decision-making skills in various cash game scenarios. This interactive episode features three hypothetical hands, each set in three-bet pots where you are in position, allowing listeners to explore different strategies and refine their approach to post-flop play The podcast begins with an analysis of the first hypothetical hand: playing pocket queens on a 7-2-2 board. Gary explains why betting big with strong hands like overpairs is crucial in these spots, especially in position, and highlights the common mistakes players make when choosing their bet sizes. Listeners will learn the importance of adjusting bet sizes based on their opponent's range and the board's texture, ensuring they maximize value and control the pot The discussion then moves to the second hypothetical hand, where the hosts break down playing Ace-Queen offsuit on an Ace-King-Three board. This scenario illustrates when to bet small to maintain a balanced strategy and capitalize on opponents' frequent folds. Gary provides insights into how bet sizing should change when you're out of position and why it's critical to consider the effectiveness of your bets when your opponent's range is wide or narrow. In the final hand, the hosts tackle a ten-seven-four board with pocket queens, emphasizing the need to balance checkbacks and betting ranges effectively. This poker strategy podcast covers why overpairs should not always be bet, explaining how to protect your checking range and keep opponents from exploiting your weaknesses. Throughout the episode, Mike and Gary utilize tools like the Lucid GTO Trainer to provide a deeper understanding of board textures, bet sizing, and positional dynamics. This poker strategy podcast is perfect for players looking to elevate their cash game skills by learning how to optimize bet sizing and improve their decision-making process in various post-flop situations. Tune in, participate in the quiz, and see if you can match wits with the pros while enhancing your overall poker strategy.

[REBROADCAST] Splashy live poker games with lots of action are incredibly profitable. But they can be incredibly frustrating too, especially if you don't know how to adjust your strategy for maximum profit. In this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up, Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood cover the most critical adjustments that you must make when playing in loose, splashy live poker games. Sign up for the new Lucid GTO Cash Game Trainer to upgrade your poker game by practicing against a perfect opponent! https://upswingpoker.com/lucid-waitlist/ Written Version of this Episode | Video Version of this Episode Subscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

You're about to level-up your poker game with money making counter-strategies from a high stakes pro. WSOP bracelet winner Alex Vuilleumier joins the podcast to share his top 3 exploits that you can use against weaker players. Alex just released two courses on Upswing Poker. The first is called Precision Poker and its Alex's master class on how to study poker. He teaches how to build your own game using modern tools and train your skills with mental exercises. If you get Precision Poker during by this Friday (Feb. 16), you'll also get his second course Exploit & Conquer ($299) for free. The lion's share of Exploit & Conquer is all about how to exploit the 62 most common mistakes players make at the table. Sneak a peek inside both courses at https://upswingpoker.com/precision-poker-mastering-methodology/ Episode Transcription 00:00 Introduction and Overview 03:23 Adjusting Bet Sizes for Maximum Value 05:25 Exploiting Inelastic Ranges Post-Flop 07:48 Creative Overbets and Check-Raise Tactics 09:07 Insights on Poker Soft Skills 10:40 Course Overview: Precision Poker and Exploit and Conquer 12:19 Enhancing Productivity and Study Efficiency 13:20 Folding Versus Creativity: Recognizing Genuine Strength In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and guest Alex Vuilleumier, a Chess International Master turned high-stakes poker pro, dive deep into three powerful money-making tactics that can help you dominate at the tables. Alex, with his impressive accomplishments, including a WSOP bracelet and over $2.2 million in live tournament earnings, shares his unique insights into exploiting common leaks and maximizing your edge against weaker players. The discussion begins with pre-flop strategies, where Alex reveals effective exploits to use against recreational players. He emphasizes the importance of isolating these weaker opponents to maximize post-flop play. Alex explains how to three-bet strategically and even suggests over-limping marginal hands to keep recreational players in the pot. This approach helps create scenarios where the most significant mistakes are made, allowing you to capitalize on their inelastic tendencies. Next, Alex dives into post-flop tactics, focusing on how to attack recreational players' inelastic ranges. He shares his strategy of using exaggerated bet sizes with strong hands and very small bets with weaker hands to exploit players who don't adjust their ranges based on bet size. This poker strategy podcast highlights the importance of reading opponents' tendencies and leveraging that information to maximize value. As the conversation continues, Mike and Alex discuss the balance between exploiting weaker players and avoiding leaving yourself open to counter-exploitation by regulars. Alex provides tips on adjusting your game when faced with more challenging opponents, emphasizing the importance of maintaining flexibility and readiness to adapt to various scenarios. This poker strategy podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to sharpen their skills, learn effective exploits, and elevate their game to the next level. Whether you're playing live or online, Alex's insights will provide the tools needed to exploit your opponents and increase your winnings. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of advanced poker strategies and hear about Alex's exciting new courses, "Precision Poker" and "Exploit and Conquer," designed to help you master the game.

The river is when the pot is at its biggest. That means good plays are heavily rewarded and mistakes are magnified. In this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up, you'll learn how to improve your strategy on the river so you make better decisions on this extremely consequential street. Poker pro Gary Blackwood shares his 5 most valuable tips for playing the river alongside Mike Brady. If you want your bluffs to work more often and your strong hands to bring in as many chips as possible, listen closely to tips #3 and 5. Episode Transcription Upswing Poker is almost ready to release its game-changing poker tool. Sign up for the waitlist for the upcoming Lucid GTO Trainer at https://upswingpoker.com/lucid-waitlist/ 00:00 Introduction to River Strategy 02:26 Example: Value Betting with Pocket Fours 04:11 Tip 2: Bluffing and Vacuuming Small Pots 06:53 Combining Thin Value Bets with Bluffs 08:21 Tip 3: Using Blockers in Big Pots 11:51 Tip 4: Calling the River – When to Overfold or Call Wide 13:44 Tip 5: Splitting Your Range on the River 16:39 Examples of Small and Big Bet Ranges 19:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood break down five essential tips for playing the river, the most crucial street in poker. The river is where the pot size is at its peak, and every decision carries the potential for maximum reward or severe penalty. By mastering these advanced river strategies, you can ensure that your strong hands extract maximum value, your bluffs are executed with precision, and you minimize mistakes that could cost you chips. The episode begins with a discussion on betting thinner for value, where Gary explains the importance of making light value bets even with hands that might feel too weak in certain scenarios. He emphasizes how many players leave money on the table by not betting hands like second, third, or even fourth pairs when they should be looking for every bit of value. Mike and Gary provide examples that illustrate when and how to bet these hands to get paid by weaker hands. Next, the hosts delve into the art of bluffing on the river, especially in small pots. They share insights on when to use bigger bet sizes to pressure opponents with weak holdings and how to pick spots for bluffing with hands that have little showdown value. By combining thin value bets with well-timed bluffs, you can create a dynamic and balanced strategy that keeps opponents guessing. The discussion continues with a focus on blockers in large pots. Gary highlights when to consider blockers in three-bet or four-bet pots to increase the success rate of your bluffs or maximize the value of your strong hands. The hosts then explore the concept of calling the river correctly, advising players to call more often in smaller pots while tightening up in bigger pots to exploit common player tendencies. Finally, the episode wraps up with a deep dive into range splitting on the river. Mike and Gary explain how to use different bet sizes to achieve balance, ensuring that your river strategy is unpredictable and challenging for opponents to counter. By mixing up small and large bet sizes, you can effectively manage your equity and put pressure on your opponents in various situations. This poker strategy podcast is packed with advanced tactics for river play, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their game. Tune in to learn how to make better decisions on the river, balance your ranges effectively, and optimize your play for maximum profitability with insights from Mike and Gary.

Let's analyze some poker hands! Upswing Lab members submitted hands to be reviewed on the Level-Up podcast and we chose 3 particularly interesting ones to go over. Hand #1 features analysis from the upcoming Lucid GTO Trainer tool. Hands #2 and #3 are straight-up street poker! The hands are recapped below (with no spoilers) to help you follow along. Sign up for the Lucid GTO Trainer waitlist at https://upswingpoker.com/lucid-waitlist/ Episode Transcription **Hand #1** $0.50/$1 on GGPoker. $131 stacks. Simon raises to $2.50 with T♥ 9♥. The Button 3-bets to $9. Simon calls. Flop: Q♦ 8♦ 6♣ - Simon checks. Button bets $12 into $19. Simon raises to $29. Button calls. Turn: K♦ - Simon bets $25 into $77. Button calls. River: 2♣ - Simon all-in for $67 into $125. **Hand #2** $2/$5 Live Cash Game. $2,500 Effective Stacks Note: A King was exposed & mucked preflop. UTG+1 raises to $15. Button 3-bets to $60. Sam 4-bets to $200 with 8♠ 8♥. Both call Flop: K♦ K♣ J♠ - Sam bets $100. UTG+1 calls. Button folds. Turn: 9♥ - Sam bets $550 into $800. UTG+1 calls. River: 9♣ - Sam all-in for $1,650 into $1,900. **Hand #3** $1/$3 Live Cash Game. $290 Effective Stacks David is in the Hijack with K♥ Q♣ UTG+1 limps. David raises to $20. Button and Big Blind call. UTG+1 folds. Flop: Q♥ 7♥ 3♥ - Big Blind leads $55 into $60. David calls. Turn: K♦ - Big Blind bets $145 into $175. David all-in for $225. 00:00 Introduction to Hand Analysis 03:30 Flop Analysis: Queen-Eight-Six with Two Diamonds 05:18 Evaluating Turn Play with Double Gutshot 08:06 River Bluff Decision with Ten High 12:17 Hand 2: Pocket Eights in a Deep Stack Live Game 18:13 Navigating the King-King-Jack Flop 21:52 Analyzing Turn and River Play in Deep Stacks 27:38 Hand 3: King-Queen of Hearts in Live Play 35:38 Results and Lessons Learne In this special episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood take a deep dive into hand analysis, breaking down some of the most challenging spots submitted by our listeners. The episode kicks off with a detailed review of a hand where a player went all-in with ten high, navigating complex decisions on every street. As Mike and Gary walk through the action, they provide valuable insights into when to bluff, when to call, and how to maximize your edge in similar situations. Listeners will get a front-row seat to advanced discussions on four-betting ranges, leveraging solvers, and understanding opponent tendencies to gain an advantage. The hosts explore hands involving tricky board textures, tough turn decisions, and river spots where bluffing or folding might be the optimal play. They also touch on psychological aspects of the game, such as how to handle pressure and stay disciplined when making big moves. Whether you're an online grinder or a live poker enthusiast, this poker strategy podcast will elevate your game by showcasing real-world examples that demonstrate both the art and science of poker. Mike and Gary highlight the importance of balancing aggression with calculated risk, and they discuss why sometimes unconventional plays—like going all-in with ten high—can be the most profitable strategy. Tune in to this poker strategy podcast for an engaging and educational experience. Learn how to refine your decision-making process, develop a deeper understanding of poker theory, and sharpen your skills for your next session at the tables. Don't miss this chance to gain invaluable insights from two seasoned pros as they dissect each hand and reveal the strategies that can make or break your game.

Get in on the biggest sale of the year on UpswingPoker: https://upswingpoker.com/advanced-poker-training/ Playing your strong hands aggressively is usually the best way to maximize profit in poker. Generally speaking, fast playing equals more money, but you are about to discover three situations where you'll actually make more money by slow-playing with Pocket Aces in both tournaments and cash games from Level-Up Host Mike Brady and poker pro Gary Blackwood. Episode Transcription 00:00 Introduction to Slow Playing Pocket Aces 02:25 Tournament Strategies for Slow Playing Pocket Aces 04:09 Applying Slow Play Tactics to Short Stack Situations 06:14 Slow Playing Pocket Aces: In and Out of Position 09:46 Solver Insights: When to Slow Play Pocket Aces 10:59 Slow Playing on the Flop After Pre-Flop Trapping 13:54 Situations for Slow Playing on Different Board Textures 15:38 Adjusting Strategy in Tournament Settings 17:54 Conclusion and Black Friday Promotion In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood explore the art of slow-playing pocket aces, a strategy that can be both highly effective and profitable when used correctly. While most players are taught to play their strongest hands aggressively, there are specific situations where slow-playing aces can maximize your earnings by luring opponents into bigger pots. This episode reveals three key scenarios—applicable to both cash games and tournaments—where slow-playing pocket aces becomes the optimal strategy. The discussion begins with an overview of the fundamental principles of slow-playing pocket aces, emphasizing the importance of stack-to-pot ratio (SPR). Gary explains that when the SPR is low, such as when you're in position facing a four-bet or a three-bet with pocket aces, slow-playing can allow you to build a larger pot on later streets without scaring away your opponents. Listeners will gain insights into how to apply this tactic in cash games, where maintaining a low SPR ensures you can comfortably commit your stack post-flop without overplaying your hand pre-flop. Mike and Gary also discuss specific tournament scenarios, including how to slow-play aces when dealing with shorter stacks or against aggressive opponents. They explain why it's often better to trap rather than raise in spots where the SPR allows for easy commitment on future streets. This poker strategy podcast also covers how to navigate different board textures, such as low-connected boards or high paired boards, and when to continue slow-playing aces on the flop versus when to shift to a more aggressive approach. As the episode progresses, the hosts delve into advanced solver-based strategies, explaining when and why the solver recommends mixing slow plays even when you're out of position or in deeper stacked scenarios. Gary provides real-world examples from his experience, demonstrating how and when to deviate from the standard aggressive play to maximize value against specific opponents. This poker strategy podcast is an essential listen for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of slow-playing pocket aces. Tune in to learn how to execute this strategy effectively, gain the maximum value from your premium hands, and elevate your overall game with insights from Mike and Gary.

Poker starting hands that are both suited and connected can be massive money-makers. But they can also cost you your stack if you over-play them. Do you know the proper times to raise, 3-bet, and call a 3-bet with suited connectors? And are you aware of the preference towards lower suited connectors in certain scenarios? Alongside host Mike Brady, poker pro Gary Blackwood gives you the answers to those key questions and more in this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up. Episode Transcription 00:00 Introduction and Overview 02:54 Defending the Big Blind with Suited Connectors 04:56 Playing Suited Connectors When Overcalling 06:31 Responding to Three-Bets with Suited Connectors 08:50 Facing a Four-Bet with Suited Connectors 11:16 Post-Flop Tips for Suited Connectors 15:01 Aggressive Play in Single-Raised Pots 17:28 Adjusting Strategy in Three-Bet Pots 20:35 Final Thoughts and Course Promotion In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood delve into the intricacies of playing suited connectors—a crucial hand category that can significantly impact your success at the tables. Suited connectors are versatile hands that can hit big draws and strong hands, but they require a deep understanding of how to play them effectively in different situations. Whether you're navigating pre-flop decisions or making post-flop moves, this episode is packed with expert advice to help you make the most of suited connectors. The podcast kicks off with an exploration of pre-flop strategies for suited connectors, where Gary explains how to adjust your play based on position, stack depth, and your opponent's tendencies. The hosts discuss when to raise, flat, or fold suited connectors, emphasizing the importance of not overvaluing these hands in early positions. They also cover the nuances of defending your big blind with suited connectors, explaining how to balance your three-betting and calling ranges to keep your opponents off balance. As the discussion progresses, Mike and Gary delve into the challenges of playing suited connectors in multi-way pots and against three-bets. They highlight the dangers of over-calling with low suited connectors, particularly when facing strong opponents who can dominate you post-flop. The episode also explores how to respond to four-bets, offering practical tips on when to continue and when to fold, depending on your read of the situation. Listeners will gain valuable insights into post-flop play with suited connectors, including how to leverage their potential in single-raised and three-bet pots. Gary provides tips on when to play aggressively with combo draws and made hands, as well as when to slow down and control the pot to avoid getting trapped. The hosts also discuss the importance of playing your range rather than your hand, emphasizing how to use suited connectors as bluffs in spots where your range is strong, even if your specific hand is weak. This poker strategy podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their play with suited connectors. Whether you're a cash game grinder or a tournament player, the strategies discussed in this episode will help you make more informed decisions and increase your profitability with these tricky yet powerful hands. Tune in, take notes, and start playing suited connectors like a pro with guidance from Mike and Gary.

Poker success starts before the flop. If you make preflop mistakes, like raising too big or too small, you won't be able to maximize your winnings on the flop, turn and river. But the optimal preflop raise sizes aren't always intuitive. It's only since the advent of solvers that poker pros have truly been able to dial in their preflop sizing. Mike Brady and poker pro Gary Blackwood walk you through the optimal open-raise, 3-bet, and 4-bet sizes in this episode. Plus, sizing adjustments you should make based on stack sizes and opponent tendencies. Join the early access waitlist for the Lucid GTO Trainer: https://upswingpoker.com/lucid-waitlist Episode Transcription 00:00 Introduction and Overview 02:45 Three-Bet Sizing Strategy 06:43 Squeezing: In-Position and Out-of-Position 08:16 Four-Bet Sizing Principles 11:48 Adjusting for Stack Sizes: Short Stacks 12:40 Adjusting for Stack Sizes: Deep Stacks 14:23 Adjusting for Different Player Types 18:06 Adjusting Against Limpers 23:02 Quiz and Wrap-Up In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood guide you through the essential tactics for preflop raise sizing to maximize your win rate in any poker game. Whether you're playing online or live, knowing the optimal raise sizes for different situations is crucial to your success at the tables. This episode is packed with actionable insights that will help you adjust your strategy for various positions, stack sizes, and player types, ensuring that your preflop decisions are always on point. The episode begins with a breakdown of the "GTO" raise sizes for every preflop spot with 100 big blind stacks, serving as a baseline strategy. Mike and Gary discuss the importance of using smaller raise sizes in early positions to minimize risk and keep the pot manageable, while larger raises are more suitable from late positions like the button or small blind, where you are likely to be in position. They also cover the nuances of three-bet sizing, explaining why the old rule of 3x in position and 4x out of position no longer applies universally and how to adjust based on your opponent's opening size. As the conversation progresses, the hosts explore squeezing strategies when facing multiple opponents and how to size four-bets to maintain post-flop playability without sacrificing value or fold equity. They delve into the impact of stack sizes on raise sizing, from short stacks where smaller raises allow for more post-flop maneuverability to deep stacks where larger raises help build bigger pots. Listeners will learn how to adjust their raise sizes based on different player types, such as when facing loose players or adapting to passive tables in live games. Gary emphasizes the importance of not overcomplicating your strategy against weak players while maintaining a balanced approach against stronger opponents. The episode wraps up with a practical quiz to test your knowledge, ensuring you can apply these concepts effectively in your own games. This poker strategy podcast is a must-listen for players looking to refine their preflop raise sizes and enhance their overall strategy. Whether you're grinding online cash games or competing in live tournaments, the insights shared in this episode will help you make more profitable decisions preflop and beyond. Tune in, take notes, and start mastering the art of preflop raise sizing with expert guidance from Mike and Gary.

Do you know how to respond when you get check-raised after betting? In theory (and if you're facing tough players), you have to continue with many more hands than you might expect on certain flops. But on other flops, you should actually play quite "A-B-C" versus check-raises by only calling or re-raising with strong, equity driven hands. Mike Brady and poker pro Gary Blackwood walk you through how to battle back against check-raises on 4 different flop types in this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up Join the early access waitlist for the Lucid GTO Trainer: https://upswingpoker.com/lucid-waitlist Episode Transcription 00:00 Introduction to Facing Check Raises 02:53 Exploitative Adjustments for Different Opponent Types 04:18 Strategy for Dry and Uncoordinated Flops 09:03 Responding to Check Raises on Draw-Heavy Flops 11:15 Adjusting to Lockdown Boards with Strong Equity 13:03 Playing Against Check Raises on Paired Flops 15:24 Key Takeaways for Adjusting to Check Raises In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood dive deep into the crucial topic of playing against check raises. When your opponent check raises, it can put you in a challenging position, and understanding how to respond effectively can make or break your game. This episode equips you with the knowledge you need to navigate these situations with confidence, whether you're up against a tricky opponent or facing a straightforward player. The episode begins by discussing the fundamental factors to consider when facing a check raise, including how the size of your initial c-bet and your opponent's raise size should influence your decision-making. Gary emphasizes the importance of adjusting your defense frequency based on these factors, helping you make more informed choices that align with your overall strategy. Listeners will learn about the different types of boards and how they impact your response to a check raise. From dry and uncoordinated flops to draw-heavy boards and lockdown situations, Mike and Gary break down the specific strategies you should employ in each scenario. They explain how to identify whether your opponent's range is wide and full of air or more equity-driven, allowing you to adjust your calling range accordingly. The discussion also covers exploitative strategies for playing against less experienced opponents. Mike shares tips on how to exploit common tendencies in soft games, such as when to tighten up against a strong check-raising range or when to fight back with a wide calling range against a looser player. As the episode progresses, the hosts explore the nuances of playing against check raises on paired flops, emphasizing the need to adapt your strategy based on the specific dynamics of the board and your opponent's tendencies. Whether you're facing a creative player who loves to bluff or a nitty opponent who only raises with the nuts, this episode provides the tools you need to respond effectively. This poker strategy podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their ability to handle check raises and enhance their overall game. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to elevate your poker skills with expert guidance from Mike and Gary.

Heads-up poker is fast and action-packed. You have to play loose and aggressive to maximize your win-rate. But you also have to be precise with your aggression to avoid spewing money to your opponent. Whether you play heads-up or not, you can benefit a lot from learning heads-up strategy. Case in point: Doug Polk has had a ton of success in non-heads-up games throughout his career, and he owes a lot of that success to the skills he gained playing heads-up. Mike Brady is joined by Doug to run through the fundamentals of heads-up No Limit Hold'em strategy in this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up Doug's new course The End Boss System is available now. Learn more at https://upswingpoker.com/the-end-boss-system/ Episode Transcription 00:00 Introduction to Heads-Up Poker Strategy 03:10 Pre-Flop Strategy from the Big Blind 06:23 Adjusting Bet Sizes Based on Stack Depth 12:42 Optimal Three-Bet and Four-Bet Ranges 17:25 Post-Flop Play Tips and Sizing Strategy 20:40 Non-Equity Bluffs in Heads-Up Play 25:02 Value Betting and Balancing Your Range 28:34 Training Your Bluff Muscle 30:36 Final Thoughts and Course Promotion In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Doug Polk dive into the essentials of heads-up poker—a format where mastering aggression and precision can make or break your game. Doug Polk, a three-time WSOP bracelet winner and one of the most accomplished heads-up players in the world, shares his expert insights into how to dominate in heads-up no-limit hold'em. Whether you're an experienced player or just starting to explore heads-up poker, this episode is packed with actionable strategies that can elevate your overall poker game. The discussion begins with a breakdown of pre-flop strategy from both the button and the big blind. Doug explains the optimal ranges for open-raising, three-betting, and how to adjust your bet sizing based on stack depth. He emphasizes the importance of understanding how deeper stacks influence your strategy, particularly when it comes to juicing the pot in position and playing more cautiously out of position. As the conversation moves to post-flop play, Doug offers three crucial tips that will help you navigate the complexities of heads-up scenarios. From choosing the right bet sizes to knowing when to barrel off with non-equity bluffs, these tips are designed to make your post-flop decisions more precise and profitable. Doug also highlights the importance of maintaining a balanced range and why it's essential to mix up your strategies to avoid becoming predictable to your opponent. Listeners will also learn about the psychological aspects of heads-up play, including how to train your "bluff muscle" and develop the confidence needed to make big moves when the situation calls for it. Doug's advice is not just about heads-up poker; it's about instilling a mindset that can be applied across all forms of poker, helping you become a more resilient and adaptive player. This poker strategy podcast is a must-listen for anyone serious about improving their heads-up game or looking to add new weapons to their poker arsenal. Tune in, take notes, and start mastering the art of heads-up poker with insights from one of the best in the game, Doug Polk. Whether you're preparing for a heads-up challenge or just want to sharpen your skills, this episode provides the tools you need to succeed.

Multiway pots are incredibly common in live poker cash games and they warrant a completely different strategy than heads-up pots. You need to adjust your preflop hand selection, your postflop bet sizing, how you play as the aggressor, and how you play as the caller. Do you know the money-making adjustments to make in multiway pots? No worries if not, because Mike Brady and poker pro Gary Blackwood are about to walk you through the fundmentals of playing hands with 3+ players in the mix. Join the waitlist for Doug Polk's new course The End Boss System here! Episode Transcription 00:00 Introduction and Overview 02:53 Hands to Avoid in Multi-Way Pots 05:27 Adjusting Strategy for Passive Tables 07:01 Playing from the Big Blind in Multi-Way Pots 10:00 Post-Flop Strategy as the Pre-Flop Aggressor 15:06 Adjusting Bet Sizing in Multi-Way Pots 18:33 Differences Between Single Raised and Three-Bet Pots 21:45 Post-Flop Strategy as a Caller in Multi-Way Pots 23:23 Understanding Inelastic Ranges In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood explore the intricacies of winning money in multi-way pots—a situation that often trips up even experienced players. Multi-way pots are common in live games, especially at the lower stakes, and mastering the strategies for these complex scenarios can significantly boost your win rate. Whether you're struggling with hand selection or unsure how to adjust your post-flop play, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you navigate multi-way pots like a pro. The episode kicks off with a discussion on pre-flop hand selection, where Gary emphasizes the importance of choosing hands that can dominate in multi-way scenarios. The hosts delve into which hands perform best and which ones to avoid, particularly in games where you're likely to face multiple opponents post-flop. They also highlight the dangers of overvaluing hands like low suited connectors and unsuited gappers, which can often lead to costly mistakes in multi-way pots As the conversation progresses, Mike and Gary provide detailed strategies for adjusting your play based on the dynamics of the table. They discuss how to tighten your opening ranges, especially in loose and passive games where you're more likely to see a flop with multiple players. The episode also covers key adjustments for playing from the big blind, emphasizing the need to avoid completing with weak hands that can easily get dominated. Listeners will gain valuable tips on post-flop play as both the pre-flop aggressor and as one of the callers in multi-way pots. Gary explains how to adjust your bet sizing and why it's crucial to play more passively with marginal hands when facing multiple opponents. The hosts also discuss the importance of understanding inelastic ranges and how to exploit opponents who are unlikely to adjust their calling tendencies based on bet size. This poker strategy podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their performance in multi-way pots. Whether you're playing live or online, the insights shared in this episode will help you make more informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls. Tune in, take notes, and start winning more money in multi-way pots with expert guidance from Mike and Gary.

Paired flops like A-A-5 or 7-7-4 are fairly common in No Limit Hold'em. As a result, the way you play them will have a pretty big impact on your overall win-rate. Do you know how often to c-bet on these flops as the preflop aggressor? And are you familiar with the (very aggressive) response you should use as the player in the big blind facing a bet? Mike Brady and poker pro Gary Blackwood cover the fundamentals of paired flops in this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up, including some tips for multiway pots. Join the waitlist for Doug Polk's new course The End Boss System: https://upswingpoker.com/hu2023/ Written Version of This Episode 00:00 Introduction and Overview 03:12 Responding to C-Bets on High Paired Flops 05:03 Strategy for Middling Paired Flops 07:23 Importance of Trips in Strategy 08:40 Big Blind's Response on Middling Paired Flops 11:45 Low Paired Flops Strategy 14:34 Big Blind's Response on Low Paired Flops 17:35 Playing Paired Flops in Multi-Way Pots 21:22 Final Thoughts and Course Promotion In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood delve into the intricacies of playing paired flops in No-Limit Hold'em. Paired flops are a common and often misunderstood part of poker, and mastering the strategies for these boards can significantly improve your game. Whether you're facing high paired boards like AAx or low paired flops like 22x, this episode provides essential insights to help you navigate these tricky situations with confidence. The podcast begins with an exploration of high paired flops, where Gary explains why these boards are generally favorable for the pre-flop aggressor. He discusses the importance of range betting on boards like AAx, KKx, and QQx, and how to adjust your strategy based on your position and the texture of the board. Listeners will learn how to effectively leverage their range advantage, ensuring they maximize value while minimizing risk. As the episode progresses, Mike and Gary shift their focus to middling paired flops, such as TTx and 99x, where the dynamics change slightly. They discuss how the presence of trips in your range—and your opponent's range—should influence your betting frequency and sizing. The conversation also covers low paired flops like 66x and 44x, where the Big Blind's range often includes more trip combinations, making it essential to play more cautiously and selectively. Listeners will gain valuable tips on how to respond to c-bets from the Big Blind, with Gary emphasizing the importance of aggressive check-raising, particularly on boards where you can represent trips or strong hands. The episode wraps up with a discussion on multi-way pots, offering practical advice on how to adjust your strategy when multiple players are involved, especially in live poker settings where these situations are more common. This poker strategy podcast is packed with actionable advice for handling paired flops, ensuring you're well-equipped to make profitable decisions no matter the situation. Whether you're playing online or live, the insights shared in this episode will help you refine your approach and gain an edge over your opponents. Tune in, take notes, and start dominating paired flops with expert guidance from Mike and Gary.

Playing out of position as the preflop raiser is one of the most misplayed situations among poker players. A lot of people think that just because they raised preflop, they should follow through with a bet on the flop at a high frequency. That's largely true when you're in position, but playing out of position calls for a much more passive and defensive strategy. If you're continuation betting too often in these spots, you're likely leaving a lot of money on the table. Mike Brady and poker pro Gary Blackwood are going to help you plug that leak in this episode. First, we'll help you understand the "why" behind out of position c-betting strategy. From there, we'll go over a bunch of example situations to help you with these tricky spots. Master c-betting out of position with Gary's incredible module inside the Upswing Lab and use coupon code LEVELUP to save $50: https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coaching/ Written Version of this Episode 00:00 Introduction and Overview 02:52 Examples of Flops to Check Entire Range 06:28 Adjusting Strategy Against Loose Players 07:02 Check-Raising on Poor Flops 09:37 Flops that Warrant Some C-Betting 11:20 Building C-Betting and Check-Raising Ranges 12:54 Best Flops for C-Betting Out of Position 15:23 Final Thoughts and Lab Promotion In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood tackle one of the most common and costly mistakes in poker: c-betting out of position. While many players instinctively continue betting after raising pre-flop, this episode reveals why a more passive and defensive approach is often the better choice when you're out of position. Gary and Mike break down the reasoning behind this strategy, helping you understand when to check, when to bet, and how to avoid spewing chips in these tricky spots. The podcast begins by discussing why c-betting too frequently out of position can lead to significant losses. Gary explains how your range as the pre-flop raiser often fares worse against your opponent's tighter, more condensed range, especially on certain board textures. By opting for a passive strategy and checking more often, you can keep the pot under control and avoid putting yourself in difficult situations on later streets. Listeners will gain insights into which flops are the worst for c-betting out of position, with examples like low-connected and disconnected boards where your opponent's range tends to perform better. The episode also covers how to adjust your strategy when facing loose players who might call or stab too frequently when checked to, offering tips on when to implement a check-raising strategy to exploit their tendencies. As the discussion progresses, Mike and Gary explore scenarios where c-betting is still appropriate, particularly on boards that are better for your range or when you have strong equity. They emphasize the importance of building a balanced c-betting and check-raising range to keep your opponents guessing and to protect your overall strategy. This poker strategy podcast is packed with practical advice and real-world examples that will help you refine your out-of-position play and minimize costly mistakes. Whether you're a cash game regular or a tournament grinder, the insights shared in this episode will help you level up your game and start making more profitable decisions at the table. Tune in, take notes, and learn how to stop spewing chips with expert guidance from Mike and Gary.

Bounty tournaments have taken over the online poker world (especially Progressive Knockouts) and live bounties are far from uncommon. This unique format requires a unique strategic approach. If you're playing bounty tournaments the same as non-bounty tournaments, you are absolutely torching money every time you play. Aussie tournament pro Hristivoje "ALLinPAV" Pavlovic joins the Upswing Level-Up Podcast to share some bounty tournament wisdom and help you capture more EV in this popular format. If you want to dive deep into Bounty Tournament Strategy, check out Pav's epic 3-hour lesson in the Upswing Lab. Not a Lab member? Save $50 on the Lab by using coupon code LEVELUP at https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coaching Transcription 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:15 Fundamentals of Bounty Tournaments 03:29 Early Stage Strategy and Calculating Bounties 05:28 Key Adjustments for Progressive Knockout Tournaments 09:11 Adjusting for Stack Sizes and Risk 12:15 Strategic Adjustments and Flatting 17:47 Understanding Static Bounty Tournaments 20:41 Common Pitfalls and Overvaluing Bounties 22:50 Final Table Strategy in Bounty Tournaments In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Pav offer a deep dive into the intricate world of bounty tournament strategy. With bounty tournaments becoming increasingly popular, both online and live, understanding the nuances of these unique events is crucial for any serious player. Pav, a seasoned pro and Upswing Poker coach, shares his expertise on how to optimize your play in these tournaments, where you're essentially competing for two prize pools: the standard tournament payout and the additional bounty rewards for knocking out opponents. The discussion kicks off with an overview of the fundamentals of bounty tournaments, emphasizing the importance of calculating the value of bounties at different stages of the tournament. Pav breaks down how to determine whether a bounty is worth chasing, especially in the early stages when the bounty can add significant value to the pot. This poker strategy podcast also covers the critical differences between static and progressive knockout (PKO) tournaments, with Pav explaining how these variations impact your overall strategy. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the adjustments needed for playing in bounty tournaments, such as how to alter your calling ranges when you cover opponents with bounties or when you're the one with a target on your back. The episode also explores common pitfalls, such as overvaluing bounties, and provides actionable advice on how to avoid these mistakes. Pav highlights the importance of playing solid and tight in the later stages of the tournament, where the bounty's value diminishes compared to the main prize pool. As the conversation progresses, the focus shifts to final table strategies, where the pressure of big payouts and accumulating bounties can lead to complex decision-making scenarios. Pav and Mike discuss how to navigate these situations effectively, ensuring that you maximize your chances of winning the tournament while still taking advantage of the bounty opportunities. This poker strategy podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to sharpen their skills in bounty tournaments. Whether you're playing online or live, the insights shared in this episode will help you make better decisions and increase your ROI in these increasingly popular events. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to dominate your next bounty tournament with expert guidance from Mike and Pav.

There's no doubt that Ace-King is one of the best starting hands in No Limit Hold'em. But "Big Slick" also gives some poker players a lot of trouble. If you want to avoid mistakes and maximize your profit when you're dealt Ace-King, this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up is for you. First, you'll how to play Ace-King in every common preflop scenario. Then, get tips for playing it after the flop (3 tips for when you hit, 3 tips for when you miss) from poker pro Gary Blackwood alongside Mike Brady. Written Version 00:00 Introduction to Ace King Strategy 02:50 Adjusting Ace King Play in Tournaments 04:16 Facing a Three-Bet with Ace King 06:31 Handling Multi-Way Pots with Ace King 08:45 Playing Ace King Post-Flop When You Hit 11:11 Tips for Playing Ace King When You Miss 13:20 Adjusting Based on Opponent Types 15:35 Navigating Turn Play with Ace King 18:51 Final Thoughts and Podcast Promotion In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood break down the nuances of playing Ace-King, one of the most powerful yet challenging hands in poker. Whether you find yourself struggling to extract maximum value when you hit or unsure how to proceed when you miss, this episode offers comprehensive strategies to help you navigate every situation with Ace-King, both pre-flop and post-flop. The podcast begins by exploring pre-flop scenarios, where Mike and Gary discuss the optimal strategies for raising, three-betting, and flatting with Ace-King. They emphasize the importance of adapting your approach based on factors like position, opponent tendencies, and the specific dynamics of cash games versus tournaments. Listeners will gain insights into when to be aggressive with Ace-King and when it's more profitable to take a more cautious line, particularly in deep-stack situations or against tighter opponents. As the conversation progresses, the hosts delve into post-flop play, offering three key tips for playing Ace-King when you connect with an ace or king on the flop. They also address the common pitfalls players face when they miss the flop, providing actionable advice on when to continue betting, when to check, and how to make the most of Ace-King's potential, even in challenging spots. By understanding how to leverage your position and assess the board texture, you'll be able to avoid costly mistakes and keep your opponent's guessing. Throughout the episode, Mike and Gary emphasize the importance of flexibility and adjustment, tailoring your strategy to the specific game and opponents you're facing. This poker strategy podcast is packed with valuable insights that will help you play Ace-King like a pro, turning this formidable hand into a consistent winner in your arsenal. Tune in to this poker strategy podcast to elevate your understanding of Ace-King and master the techniques that will make you more confident and successful at the tables. Whether you're grinding cash games or competing in tournaments, this episode provides the tools you need to maximize your edge with Ace-King.

The aggressive betting strategy known as "range betting" can be a big money-maker in poker...but it can also be incredibly costly if you try it at the wrong time. Do you know the flops and situations that warrant a range bet? And perhaps even more importantly, do you know which boards you should slow down and check at least sometimes? This episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up will help you answer those key questions. Mike Brady and poker Gary Blackwood teach you the fundamentals of range betting that you can use in your next poker session. Become a range bettin' boss with the in-depth "Range Betting Strategy" module in the Upswing Lab training course. Join here: https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coaching/ Written Version 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:08 Reasons for Betting the Entire Range 02:16 Benefits of Range Betting Against Different Defenses 05:37 Range Betting in Three-Bet Pots 07:01 Understanding Adjustments Based on Opponent Behavior 09:14 Common Mistakes with Range Betting 12:17 Advanced Tips for Turn Play After Range Betting 17:35 Turn Play Strategies and Range Equity 21:41 Course Promotion and Closing Remarks In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood delve into the powerful concept of range betting—a strategy that, when used correctly, can dramatically increase your win rate. If you've ever struggled with when to bet your entire range on the flop or how to adjust your strategy in different scenarios, this episode is packed with the insights you need to refine your approach and start winning more consistently. The discussion kicks off with an introduction to the basics of range betting, where Mike and Gary explain why betting your entire range can be so effective, particularly in positions where you hold a significant range advantage over your opponents. The hosts discuss how this strategy forces opponents into tough spots, making them defend with marginal hands or risk folding too often, both of which work to your advantage. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the specific flops and situations where range betting is most effective. Gary highlights the importance of understanding board textures, such as disconnected boards and high pair boards, where range betting can be particularly profitable. The episode also explores how to adjust your range betting strategy in three-bet pots, offering detailed examples and tips on when to continue applying pressure with your entire range. As the episode progresses, Mike and Gary dive into more advanced aspects of range betting, including how to adjust your strategy based on opponent tendencies and specific scenarios that might require deviation from the standard approach. They also cover common mistakes players make when range betting and offer practical advice on how to avoid them, ensuring that you can implement this strategy with confidence. The podcast wraps up with a discussion on post-flop play after range betting, focusing on how to navigate the turn and river when you've bet your entire range on the flop. This poker strategy podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to sharpen their skills and add a powerful new tool to their poker arsenal. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to elevate your game with expert guidance from Mike and Gary.

If you ever play poker tournaments that start with deep stacks, this video is for you. You're about to get a lesson on early stage deep stack strategy from one of the best tournament players of all time: Nick Petrangelo. He's got over $30 million in live cashes and many millions more online, so you know you're in good hands. Nick reveals 3 crucial takeaways for early stage tournaments. This lesson was taken directly from his Deep Stack Dominance course on UpswingPoker.com, which helps tournament players master deep stack tournament strategy. Get $200 off Nick Petrangelo's course Deep Stack Dominance with the coupon code DEEPSTACK200 right here: https://upswingpoker.com/deep-stack-dominance/ Written Version of this Episode 00:00 Introduction and Overview 02:37 Reentry Tournaments: Playing for Chip EV 03:24 Adjusting Strategies for Deep Stacks 07:47 Passive Lines and Small Bets in Deep Stack Play 08:37 Critical Deep Stack Scenarios: Three-Bet, Squeeze, and Four-Bet Pots 10:57 Avoiding Costly Mistakes in Deep Stack Play 12:07 Deep Stack Dominance Course Overview In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Nick Petrangelo dive into the intricacies of deep stack tournament play, focusing on how to optimize your strategy when starting with 200 or more big blinds. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who regularly plays in tournaments or cash games with deep stacks, as Nick shares expert insights drawn from his extensive experience in high-stakes tournaments. The episode begins by highlighting the similarities between cash games and deep stack tournaments, emphasizing that the strategies you use in these scenarios should often overlap. Nick discusses how the advent of reentry tournaments has blurred the lines between the two formats, making it essential for tournament players to master deep stack strategies. Listeners will learn why, in reentry tournaments, your focus should be on maximizing chip EV rather than worrying about survival, a mindset shift that can significantly impact your success in the early stages of a tournament. As the conversation progresses, Nick breaks down key adjustments that players need to make when transitioning from short to deep stack play. He explains why certain strategies, like aggressive bluffing and big bet sizing, which work well with 40 or 50 big blinds, can lead to costly mistakes when applied to deep stack scenarios. Instead, Nick advocates for a more defensive approach, particularly when playing out of position, and provides practical advice on when to use small bets and passive lines to maintain control of the pot. One of the central takeaways from this poker strategy podcast is the importance of precision in deep stack play. Nick emphasizes that in deep stack scenarios, small mistakes can lead to massive losses, especially in three-bet, squeeze, and four-bet pots where the pot sizes can balloon quickly. By playing solid starting hands and avoiding unnecessary aggression, you can let your opponents make the big mistakes, ultimately allowing you to chip up steadily without putting your stack at undue risk. This poker strategy podcast is packed with actionable advice designed to help you navigate the challenges of deep stack tournament play. Whether you're preparing for a major live event or looking to improve your deep stack strategy in online tournaments, this episode provides the tools you need to make smarter decisions and avoid common pitfalls. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to refine your approach with expert guidance from Mike and Nick.