The Mechanics of Poker Podcast

In this third part of the The CGWC special, our 5 competitors dive deep into strategy, study habits, and what it really takes to improve at the highest levels. We cover breakthrough moments, the best and worst advice, common mistakes, evolving routines, and how to fix leaks effectively. You’ll also hear insights on misconceptions about professionals, balancing simple vs complex strategies, intuition vs data, and whether RNG truly matters.

In this second part of the The CGWC special, we continue chatting with five of the top competitors from the challenge. We cover the road that got them here. From the lowest points in poker to the confidence, motivation, and skills it takes to go compete in the cash-game world championship, this episode covers it all. We talk early challenges, big downswings, risk-taking, tournament vs. cash game dynamics, and how goals and fulfillment evolve over time. Packed with insights any aspiring or seasoned player can learn from.

In this special edition of The Mechanics of Poker Podcast, we sat down with five of the top competitors from the Cash-Game World Championship Mid-Stakes edition. Together we dive into the preparation, pressure, and mindset needed to battle through one of the toughest online arenas. From adapting to new formats, handling mistakes, and staying sharp in a reg-heavy field — to the routines, surprises, and lessons learned along the way — this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to compete at the highest level. Whether you’re grinding mid-stakes yourself, aiming to move up, or just want to learn from players who put it all on the line, this episode is packed with insights you can apply to your own game.

This week’s guest is Vlastimil Pustina, a Czech high-stakes NLH cash-game player known for his profound journey into self-awareness. He discusses how poker serves as a mirror for personal growth, exploring emotions like fear and perfectionism that can sabotage performance. Vlastimil shares insights on mindfulness, emotional regulation, and managing dopamine to enhance focus. He also highlights the importance of recovery routines and setting boundaries, making connections between poker strategies and life lessons that resonate beyond the table.

Wouter "MMAsherdog" Beumers, a high-stakes cash-game player, shares his journey from low to high stakes poker. He emphasizes that understanding human behavior is key, rather than just relying on solver outputs. The conversation dives into the balance between exploitative play and GTO strategies, and the importance of creativity in strategy development. Wouter highlights effective bankroll management amid crypto volatility, the necessity of mental discipline to combat tilt, and insights on transitioning to ventures like High Stakes Finance while maintaining personal growth.

Anton Wigg, a seasoned MTT player and entrepreneur, shares how his Waldorf education and AI tools have revolutionized his poker approach. He delves into the importance of systems thinking, emotional awareness, and curiosity in mastering the game. The conversation explores the interplay between technology and personal growth, emphasizing the significance of balance, mindset, and human connections in poker. Anton also reflects on overcoming burnout and the necessity of aligning one’s values with actions, highlighting the journey toward authentic living and self-discovery.

In episode 56 we chat with High-Stakes Mixed-Game specialist Benny Glaser. Benny opens up about his poker journey—from his early competitive drive to becoming one of the most accomplished mixed games players in the world. We dive deep into the mental game, the transition from online to live poker, strategic breakthroughs, and what it really takes to thrive in high-pressure environments like final tables and grinding series. Benny also explores the psychology of poker with insights from Adam Carmichael, shares his favorite formats like Badugi and Deuce to Seven Triple Draw, and reflects on how experimentation, emotional resilience, and narrative control shape long-term success. You don’t want to miss this one!

In episode 55 we chat with High-Stakes Cash-Game player and Entrepreneur Nick Howard. We explore the evolution of poker and what it takes to build a sustainable, player-focused ecosystem. They reflect on the shift from technical strategy to placement, mindset, and behavioral awareness, highlighting the traits that separate high-performing players from those who stay stuck. The discussion covers how access to private games and strong networks has become more valuable than traditional content, and why adaptability, emotional intelligence, and self-correction are now essential for success. The conversation closes with a look at the future of poker—one where trust, integrity, and player experience take center stage, balancing the needs of both professionals and recreational players to build a healthier, more connected industry.

Thomas Boivin, a high-stakes MTT player with an engineering mindset, shares his analytical approach to poker. He discusses balancing solvers with intuition, the complexities of MTT dynamics, and the importance of emotional regulation. The conversation dives into personal growth, exploring the journey of identity and the necessity of manageable steps in self-improvement. Thomas also emphasizes wellness, revealing how nutrition and mindfulness can boost performance while preventing burnout. It's a deep dive into the intersection of strategy, psychology, and personal development in poker.

Elias "ZerosPoker" Gutierrez, a high-stakes poker pro and content creator, shares his inspiring journey from online cash games to building a personal brand through YouTube and a poker school. He delves into the challenges of balancing poker with content creation, emphasizing the need for structured productivity. Elias discusses transitioning from personal gaming to professional success, the importance of authentic branding, and lessons from travel, underscoring how experiences and strategic growth define fulfillment both on and off the poker table.