Upswing Poker Level-Up

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.

The great game of Pot Limit Omaha is arguably the most profitable poker game to play in the modern era. The average PLO player tends to be much less studied than the average No Limit Hold'em player, so you can gain a big edge by learning the fundamentals. Those fundamentals are what this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up is here to teach you as high stakes PLO specialist Dylan Weisman joins Mike Brady. Get a winning PLO strategy fast with Dylan's PLO Launch Pad course and save 25% with coupon code PLO25. Join the course here: https://upswingpoker.com/plo-launch-pad/ Written Version of this Episode 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:27 Pre-Flop Strategy Components 03:27 The Importance of Position in PLO 06:08 Hand Selection for Different Positions 11:18 Navigating Post-Flop Play in PLO 17:51 Five Key Tips for Playing Post-Flop 20:09 C-Betting Strategies in PLO 24:09 Multi-Way Pot Strategies 29:24 Conclusion and Course Promotion In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Dylan Weisman delve into the exciting and complex world of Pot Limit Omaha (PLO). With Dylan's impressive credentials as a high-stakes pro and WSOP bracelet winner, this episode offers listeners an invaluable opportunity to learn from one of the best in the game. Whether you're new to PLO or looking to refine your strategy, this episode covers everything you need to know to dominate at the tables. The episode kicks off with a discussion on the fundamentals of PLO, where Dylan emphasizes the importance of understanding the four key components of a strong pre-flop hand: nuttiness, connectedness, suitedness, and high pair power. Listeners will gain insights into how to evaluate these components to make better pre-flop decisions, particularly when navigating the unique challenges of multi-way pots that are common in PLO. As the conversation progresses, Dylan and Mike explore the significance of position in PLO, offering practical advice on adjusting your strategy based on your seat at the table. They discuss how to build a solid pre-flop range for different positions, from the tight under-the-gun plays to the more aggressive button strategies. The hosts also delve into post-flop play, where Dylan shares five key tips for success, including how to evaluate the robustness of your hand's equity and the importance of adjusting your c-bet sizing based on board texture. One of the highlights of this poker strategy podcast is the detailed exploration of pocket aces in PLO—a hand that, unlike in No-Limit Hold'em, requires a nuanced approach. Dylan explains why not all aces are created equal and provides actionable advice on how to play these hands based on stack depth, position, and board texture. The episode wraps up with advanced strategies for multi-way pots and turn play, where Dylan explains how to adjust your betting strategy when facing multiple opponents and how to leverage small bet sizes effectively. Whether you're a cash game grinder or a tournament player, this episode is packed with actionable insights that will help you crush PLO games. Tune in to this poker strategy podcast to elevate your PLO skills, learn how to exploit common player tendencies, and gain a deeper understanding of one of the most dynamic and exciting poker variants.

Imagine this. The flop has checked through after you defended your Big Blind against a player who raised preflop. Now, you're considering whether or not to probe bet (the term for a bet in this situation) on the turn. Do you know which hands to probe bet? And what about the size you should bet? That's exactly what you're about to learn in this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up. Mike Brady and poker pro Gary Blackwood will cover the basics of probe betting to help you extract value and bluff effectively in this common spot. Written Version of this Episode If you really want to take your poker skills to the next level, join the Upswing Lab. Use coupon code LEVELUP to get $50 off your Lab membership and start upgrading your game today. There's an incredible module in the Lab all about probing (and delay c-betting) on the turn that will help you master this spot. Learn more about the Lab at https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coaching  00:00 Introduction to Probe Betting 02:19 Probe Bet Sizing Based on Board Texture 04:59 Building a Probe Betting Range 07:48 Examples of Probe Betting Scenarios 11:38 Balancing Your Range with Strong Hands 13:03 Adjusting Probe Strategy on Overcards 17:30 When to Avoid Probe Betting 19:49 Summary and Key Takeaways 20:24 Upswing Lab Promotion and Closing Remarks In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood dive into the intricacies of probe betting—a critical but often misunderstood tactic in poker. If you’ve ever wondered when and how to use probe bets effectively, this episode is packed with insights that will help you refine this crucial aspect of your game. By focusing on the turn, where probe betting is most commonly applied, Mike and Gary provide a comprehensive guide to understanding when and why to employ this strategy to maximize your winnings. The episode kicks off with an introduction to probe betting, explaining its role in situations where your opponent had the opportunity to continuation bet on the previous street but chose not to. Mike and Gary discuss why this can be a prime opportunity to take control of the hand, particularly when your opponent’s range is weakened by their decision to check. They explore how different board textures and your opponent's tendencies should influence your decision to probe bet, emphasizing the importance of adjusting your bet size based on the board and your hand strength. Listeners will learn how to construct their probe betting range, with examples illustrating when to bet aggressively and when to exercise caution. The hosts break down several common scenarios, such as betting on low-connected boards versus avoiding probe bets on boards that are likely to favor your opponent. They also discuss the nuances of using small versus large bet sizes, depending on the situation, and how to balance your range to prevent being exploited by savvy opponents. As the episode progresses, the discussion turns to more advanced concepts, including how to adjust your strategy when overcards hit the turn and when it might be better to check and give up on the hand. Gary offers practical advice on identifying the right spots to probe and how to recognize when your opponent's range is most vulnerable. This poker strategy podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of probe betting and enhance their overall strategy. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting started, the insights shared in this episode will give you the tools you need to make more informed and profitable decisions at the table. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to level up your poker game with Mike and Gary’s expert guidance.

The $10,000 buy-in World Series of Poker Main Event is a special tournament. Even poker business people like Mike Brady and cash game pros like Gary Blackwood dust off their hoodies to register the big one and take a shot at glory. In this special episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up, Mike and Gary recap their respective runs (or lack thereof) in the 2023 WSOP Main Event. If you really want to take your tournament poker skills to the next level, join the Upswing Lab and watch the "How to Win the WSOP Main Event" module. It is a valuable and entertaining lesson on tournament strategy. Use coupon code LEVELUP to get $50 off the Lab and start upgrading your game today. Learn more about the Lab at https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coaching/ Written Version   00:00 Introduction and Overview of WSOP Main Event 07:12 Gary's Early Hands in the Main Event 16:30 Day Two Strategy and Key Hands 22:20 Deep Run Discussion: Navigating Day Three 29:18 Evaluating Post-Flop Play and Big Decisions 35:49 The Bubble and Early Day Four Strategy 40:28 Playing for Maximum Value Near the Bubble 45:37 Critical Hand Analysis and Final Thoughts 55:09 Upswing Lab Promotion and Closing Remarks In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood take you inside the high-stakes world of the WSOP Main Event. Both Mike and Gary share their firsthand experiences from the tournament floor, offering a unique look at the strategies, key hands, and intense decisions that define poker's most prestigious event. Whether you’re an aspiring WSOP contender or a seasoned player looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with actionable insights that will elevate your game. The episode begins with Mike recounting his journey through the early levels of the Main Event, including a pivotal hand that tested his bluffing skills. Despite his early exit, Mike’s analysis of the hand provides valuable lessons on reading opponents and executing well-timed bluffs. Gary, who made a deeper run, offers a detailed breakdown of several key hands that highlight the nuances of tournament play, from navigating tough spots against aggressive opponents to making disciplined folds that preserve your stack. Listeners will also gain insights into mid-stage strategies as Gary discusses his approach to building a stack while avoiding the common pitfalls that can derail even the best players. The conversation delves into the psychological aspects of playing in the Main Event, where the stakes are high and the pressure is relentless. Gary’s hand-by-hand analysis provides a window into the thought processes that guide top players through the minefield of a major tournament. As the episode progresses, the focus shifts to the late stages of the Main Event, where every decision is magnified by the proximity to the money and the looming final table. Mike and Gary explore the intricacies of bubble play, stack management, and exploiting opponents who are tightening up as the pressure mounts. They also discuss the importance of adapting your strategy based on the changing dynamics of the tournament and the specific tendencies of your opponents. This poker strategy podcast is an invaluable resource for anyone serious about improving their tournament game. Whether you’re dreaming of a deep run in the WSOP or just looking to sharpen your skills in local tournaments, the insights shared in this episode will help you develop a winning mindset and approach. Tune in, take notes, and prepare to take your tournament play to the next level with expert advice from Mike and Gary.

The Small Blind is a unique position because you already have half a blind invested, which improves your pot odds, but you're also out of position against every player at the table. What's more, you've still got the Big Blind to worry about behind you. This unique position requires a unique strategy before the flop. Mike Brady and poker pro Gary Blackwood walk you through the optimal approach from the Small Blind in this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up. If you really want to take your poker skills to the next level, head over to UpswingPoker.com and join the Upswing Lab. Use coupon code LEVELUP to get $50 off and start upgrading your game today. Note from Mike: I made a mistake in this one at 15:09, when I'm talking about a SB call spot vs a raise + caller at 15-25bb stacks. I spoke off the cuff here and while I stand by my general point about some hands being nice flats in this spot, the specific hands I listed were misleading/wrong. So we're talking about a spot where a player raises, another player calls, and then the action gets to you in the Small Blind with a 15-25bb stack. Calling with QJo is gonna be too loose vs almost any position pair. KJo only starts to play heavy call vs CO/BTN. The solver plays a linear squeeze in this spot. In other words, you just shove with the top X% of hands because you want to push equity with most of your range. You can then just call a bunch of playable hands below this range. Sorry about that mistake -- it's what I get for not confirming details before that segment like we usually do! Written Version of this Episode  00:00 Introduction and Overview of Small Blind Strategy 01:19 Common Strategy: Three-Bet or Fold 02:57 Optimal Three-Bet Sizing 06:09 Situations for Flatting from the Small Blind 09:11 Strategy Adjustments Based on Opponent Types 12:41 Small Blind Strategy in Tournaments 16:36 Playing Against Limpers 20:50 Adjustments for Multiple Limpers 22:41 Small Blind Open Strategy When Action Folds to You 27:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood delve into the often overlooked but crucial topic of small blind strategy. As the final episode of season two, this discussion is packed with insights that can help you refine your approach from the small blind, a position that presents unique challenges due to its combination of better pot odds and the disadvantage of being out of position against the entire table. The episode starts by addressing the common "three-bet or fold" strategy, which many players default to when facing a raise from the small blind. Gary explains the rationale behind this approach, emphasizing the dangers of capping your range by flatting and the potential pitfalls of allowing the big blind to exploit you with squeezes. He also covers the optimal three-bet sizing, offering practical advice on how to adjust your bet sizes depending on stack depth and opponent tendencies. Listeners will learn about specific situations where flatting from the small blind might be justified, particularly when targeting specific types of weaker opponents. Mike and Gary discuss the nuances of building a flatting range, focusing on hands that can capitalize on post-flop play against loose or passive players. They also explore how this strategy shifts in tournament play, where antes and varying stack sizes introduce additional complexity. As the episode progresses, the hosts move on to playing from the small blind against limpers. Gary shares his approach to constructing a wide range in these scenarios, while also cautioning against overextending with hands that don’t perform well in multi-way pots. The discussion includes detailed advice on adjusting your strategy when facing multiple limpers and the importance of recognizing when to exercise caution post-flop. The podcast wraps up with an examination of small blind play when the action folds to you. Mike and Gary discuss the theoretically correct approach versus practical adjustments, emphasizing the complexities of implementing a limping strategy and why a raise-or-fold approach might be more effective for most players. This poker strategy podcast is filled with actionable advice designed to help you master the small blind and improve your overall game. Whether you’re navigating cash games or tournaments, this episode offers valuable strategies that can give you a competitive edge at the tables. Tune in, take notes, and elevate your poker skills with expert guidance from Mike and Gary.

Poker tournaments are a grind and you have to have a lot of different skills to succeed in them. Do you know how to play with deep stacks in the early stages? Does your strategy thrive (and/or survive) in key bubble situations? Can you set yourself up for the final table once you're in the money? Do you have what it takes to play your A-game at the final table and eventually close the deal heads-up? Darren Elias is an elite player who could answer yes to all of these questions, and he joins Mike Brady in this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up to help you improve your tournament strategy. Darren just released an advanced training 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 new Road to Victory course. Get Road to Victory: The Ultimate Tournament Course on UpswingPoker.com. Sign up here: https://upswingpoker.com/road-to-victory/ Written Version of this Episode  00:00 Guest Introduction 02:40 Early-Stage Strategy: Observation and Data Collection 05:12 Intermediate Stage: Focus on Button Play 10:44 Bubble Stage: Soft vs. Hard Bubble Strategies 15:22 Initial in the Money Stage: Adjusting Pre-Flop Ranges 17:46 Deep in the Money Stage: Zooming Out and Assessing the Table 21:42 Final Table Strategy: Opponent Assessment and ICM 27:02 Heads Up Play: Adapting to Different Opponents 33:50 Conclusion and Course Promotion In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Darren Elias guide you through the intricate journey of crushing poker tournaments from start to finish. With Darren's expertise as a four-time World Poker Tour champion, listeners are treated to a masterclass in tournament strategy, tailored to both online and live play. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an aspiring player, this episode offers practical advice that can elevate your game in every stage of a tournament. The podcast kicks off with insights into early-stage strategy, where Darren emphasizes the importance of observation and data collection. He explains how building player profiles and identifying betting patterns early on can set the foundation for success. As the conversation progresses, the focus shifts to intermediate-stage strategies, particularly the critical importance of button play and adapting your tactics based on opponent types and stack sizes. Listeners will find invaluable tips on navigating the bubble stage, where Darren discusses the differences between soft and hard bubbles, and how to adjust your ranges to maximize your stack potential. Moving into the money, Darren shares strategies for maintaining momentum while avoiding costly ICM mistakes, especially when the stakes begin to rise. As the episode moves into the deep in-the-money and final table stages, Darren and Mike delve into the nuances of opponent assessment, emotional control, and table dynamics. They provide detailed advice on how to handle high-pressure situations, emphasizing the importance of zooming out and reassessing both the table and the overall tournament landscape. Finally, the podcast concludes with a focus on heads-up play, where Darren outlines the key adjustments needed to secure victory when facing the final opponent. He discusses the importance of adapting to different player types, leveraging stack depth, and understanding the specific dynamics of big blind ante structures. Whether you're preparing for a major live event or honing your online skills, this episode is your ultimate guide to tournament success. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to dominate the tables with expert strategies from Mike and Darren.

Learn the strategies for playing Ace High boards in poker, including the impact of raising on opponent's range. Discover how to approach check raising and calling ranges against varying seabed sizes. Find out effective check raising strategies and hear about a poker simulation and potential future Q&A episode.

If you are a player who rarely bets big at the poker table, you are leaving a lot of money on the table. Betting big in the right spots allows you to build pots with strong hands when you have them, but it only makes sense to do when the rest of your range can support it. Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood help you understand exactly when to shovel big bets into the pot in this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up. Pre-register for the upcoming Road to Victory tournament course by Darren Elias and Nick Petrangelo: https://upswingpoker.com/road-to-victory-pre-reg/ Written Version of this Episode 00:00 Introduction to Big Bet Strategies 01:32 Defining Big Bets and Their Importance 04:25 Factors That Drive Big Bet Decisions 05:54 Single Raised Pots and Overbetting 10:28 Exploitative Adjustments with Big Bets 12:38 Unintuitive Bluffs and Blocking 15:07 Using Bottom Pair as a Bluff 17:30 Big Betting in Three-Bet Pots 21:02 Defensive Strategies on Connected Boards 24:21 Closing Thoughts and Lab Promotion In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood explore the powerful and often misunderstood concept of big bet strategies in poker. If you’ve ever wondered when and how to use large bets effectively to maximize your profits, this episode is a must-listen. Mike and Gary break down the nuances of when to deploy big bets on the flop, turn, and river, explaining how this strategy can dramatically impact your game by putting your opponents in tough spots and extracting maximum value from your strong hands. The episode starts with a deep dive into the psychology and mathematics behind big bets, highlighting the importance of understanding nut advantage and board texture. Mike and Gary explain why certain board types, like ace-high or low disconnected flops, are prime opportunities for big bets, particularly when you hold a significant range advantage. They also discuss the pitfalls of betting too small in situations that actually warrant a larger bet, showing how these missed opportunities can leave money on the table. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how to apply big bets in both single-raised and three-bet pots. The discussion includes specific examples, such as overbetting on ace-king-six boards, and why this approach works so effectively against opponents’ ranges. Gary also shares tips on identifying and executing unintuitive bluffs, such as turning bottom pair into a bluff when the board and opponent dynamics suggest it’s the right move. Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the importance of adjusting your strategy based on your opponent’s tendencies. They discuss scenarios where you might deviate from standard equilibrium play to exploit opponents who are overly tight or who struggle to call down with marginal hands. These advanced strategies are essential for players looking to elevate their game and dominate in both live and online environments. This poker strategy podcast is packed with actionable advice and expert insights that will help you refine your big bet tactics and make more informed decisions at the table. Whether you’re playing in low stakes games or high roller tournaments, understanding when and how to bet big can be the difference between winning a small pot and stacking your opponent. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to level up your poker strategy with Mike and Gary.

15 or so years ago small bets were used quite rarely by great poker players. But since then, the usage of small bets has grown as players realized how much expected value they can add to their overall strategy. Using small bets at the right time will allow you to win more pots and put your opponents in tough spots, so this is a vital topic.  Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood cover the factors that should push you towards betting small and cover specific hand examples in this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up. Pre-register for the upcoming Road to Victory tournament course by Darren Elias and Nick Petrangelo: https://upswingpoker.com/road-to-victory-pre-reg/ Written Version of this Episode  00:00 Introduction to Small Bet Strategies 03:13 When to Use Smaller Bet Sizes 04:17 Defining Small Bet Sizes 06:17 Factors That Make You Want to Bet Small 10:37 Specific Examples of Small Bet Situations 13:13 Betting Strategy on Paired Boards 16:42 Disconnected Boards and Small Bets 21:01 Small Bets in Three-Bet Pots 24:30 Upcoming Episode and Course Promotion In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood break down the essential strategies for using small bets in various poker situations. As they explore when and why to bet small, they provide insights that can help you enhance your overall game and make more informed decisions at the table. Whether you're navigating single-raised pots or tackling tricky three-bet scenarios, this episode offers practical advice on how to optimize your betting strategy with smaller sizes. The discussion kicks off with a comparison between small and big bet sizes, emphasizing the different scenarios where each is most effective. Mike and Gary dive into the key concepts of range advantage and nut advantage, explaining how these factors should influence your decision to bet small. They also discuss the importance of understanding pot odds, the frequency of bluffs, and how to maintain balance in your betting strategy. Listeners will gain valuable insights into specific situations where small bets are most effective. For example, Mike and Gary cover single-raised pots on paired boards, disconnected boards, and monotone flops, explaining why small bet sizes often make sense in these contexts. They also delve into three-bet pots, highlighting how to adjust your strategy based on the board texture and your overall range. The episode also touches on advanced concepts, such as when to use even smaller bet sizes, like 10% or 25%, in certain spots. Mike and Gary provide practical examples to help you understand when these tiny bets can add expected value to your strategy, offering tips on how to implement them effectively without sacrificing equity. As the episode concludes, the hosts preview their next discussion on when to bet big, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of betting strategies. This poker strategy podcast is packed with actionable advice that can help you refine your approach to small bets and take your game to the next level. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, this episode provides the tools you need to make more profitable decisions at the poker table. Tune in, take notes, and elevate your poker strategy with expert guidance from Mike and Gary.

Flops with three cards of the same suit can be very confusing to play. They're unlike any other flop texture type in poker, so they warrant a unique approach. Do you know what bet size to use on monotone flops as the preflop raiser? What about which hands to check-raise against a bet as the preflop caller? Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood help you understand the answers to these questions and more in this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up. If you really want to take your poker skills to the next level, head over to http://upswingpoker.com. Upswing has hundreds of free articles, free quizzes, affordable crash courses, and advanced training courses that will help you get better at poker. Learn poker strategy from the world's top players at http://www.upswingpoker.com/ Written Version of this Episode 00:00 Introduction to Monotone Boards 01:19 General Rules for Monotone Flops 03:12 Comparing High vs. Low Monotone Boards 08:50 Playing as the Big Blind on Monotone Flops 11:30 Monotone Boards in Three-Bet Pots 14:42 Raising Strategy vs. C-Bets in Three-Bet Pots 18:20 Adjusting Strategy When Out of Position 20:19 Wrapping Up Monotone Board Strategies In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood dive deep into the complex world of monotone boards—those tricky flops where all three cards are of the same suit. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting to refine your strategy, this episode offers essential insights into constructing your range and making optimal decisions in both single-raised and three-bet pots on these challenging boards. The discussion begins by addressing the general rules for playing monotone flops. Gary emphasizes the importance of using smaller bet sizes when c-betting on monotone boards due to the potential for drastic changes on subsequent streets. The podcast explores how the texture of the board and your position influence your strategy, whether you're playing against an opponent's continuation bet or deciding on your own c-bet strategy. Listeners will learn how to adjust their approach based on the strength of their hand and the board's specific texture. For example, high boards like Ace-King-Nine all of one suit are discussed in contrast to lower boards like Seven-Four-Deuce, highlighting the concept of "nut advantage" and how it impacts your c-betting frequency. Mike and Gary explain why it's crucial to understand the equity distribution in these situations and how it should influence your decision-making process. The podcast also covers how to build your check-raising and check-calling ranges when you're playing from the big blind on monotone flops. The hosts delve into the nuances of playing out of position, emphasizing the need for a tight and cautious strategy due to the volatility of these boards. Gary provides actionable advice on when to be more aggressive and when to play more passively, depending on the board's characteristics and your opponent's tendencies. As the episode progresses, the focus shifts to three-bet pots, where the dynamics of monotone boards change significantly. The discussion includes how to adjust your c-bet strategy based on your opponent's range and the strength of your hand, with a particular emphasis on the importance of the nut advantage in these scenarios. This poker strategy podcast is packed with valuable insights and practical advice that will help you stop bleeding cash on monotone flops. Whether you're struggling with understanding these tricky spots or looking to fine-tune your approach, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in, take notes, and level up your game with expert guidance from Mike and Gary.