Upswing Poker Level-Up

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.

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.