The Mechanics of Poker Podcast

In episode 54 we chat with High-Stakes MTT play Thomas Boivin. Thomas shares how his engineering background shapes his analytical approach to poker, balancing solvers, ICM, and intuition. He and Rene dive into the complexities of MTTs, the importance of simplifying strategies, and the different dynamics of playing as an aggressor or defender. They also explore emotional regulation, documenting knowledge, and overcoming fear at the tables. Together with Adam, they discuss career setbacks, personal growth, and the power of small, consistent actions. The conversation highlights the role of healthy routines, vulnerability in coaching, and how dedication and self-awareness drive long-term success.

In episode 53, we sit down with high-stakes poker pro, content creator, and entrepreneur Elias “ZerosPoker” to explore his evolution from dominating online cash games to building a thriving brand through YouTube and his poker school. Elias opens up about his journey, the challenges of juggling multiple roles, and how he's learned to structure his life for long-term success. We dive into how he balances poker with content creation, the systems he uses to stay efficient, and his philosophy on growth, health, and happiness both at and away from the tables. Whether you're a grinder, creator, or builder—this conversation is packed with insight and inspiration.

In episode 52 of the podcast, Casimir Seire shares his incredible journey from aspiring footballer to professional poker player. He opens up about the mental resilience gained from his time in the military, the thrill of tournament play, and how he balances ambition, preparation, and emotional control in poker. We dive into the challenges of variance, the importance of structure in poker and life, and how to navigate the emotional rollercoaster of high-stakes games. Casimir also discusses risk management, avoiding burnout, and the key traits necessary for long-term success in poker. If you're looking for practical strategies, mindset shifts, and inspiration to improve your poker game (and life), this episode is for you!

In episode 51 of the MOPP we chat with american high-stakes cash-game player Armin "AbsoluteTopUp" Amini. We dive deep into his journey, mindset, and experiences at the World Cash Game Championships. We discuss the highs and lows of battling the best, dealing with massive swings, and the lessons he's learned along the way. Armin shares how he transitioned from gaming to poker, refined his study process, and developed the mental resilience needed to compete at the top. We also explore key poker concepts, from understanding blockers to balancing exploitative and solver-based strategies. Plus, he reveals the biggest mindset leaks holding players back and the traits required to reach high stakes. If you're serious about improving your game and mastering the mental side of poker, this episode is a must-watch.

In episode 50 of the MOPP we are chatting with one of the biggest winners in online poker, high-stakes PLO cash-game player Grazvydas Kontautas. Grazvydas shares his journey from starting poker young to becoming a pro, discussing mindset, game selection, and self-criticism in his growth. He explores the balance between poker and personal life, risk management, and insights from game theory. The conversation covers transitioning from No Limit Hold'em to PLO, common mistakes, strategy creation, and the role of coaching. Grazvydas highlights the importance of feedback, community, and unorthodox strategies for maximizing EV. He reflects on poker's future, lifestyle factors, and the lessons learned, offering advice for aspiring players on finding balance and success in the game.

In episode 49 of the MOPP, we invited recently crowned cash-game champion Owen "PR0DIGY" on to make his second appearance on the channel. Owen shares what he has been up to since we last spoke reflects on his recent cash-game world championship win over at coinpoker. We will chat about the thrill of competition, mental challenges, and the balance between technical skill and psychological resilience. He shares insights on adapting to opponents, game plans, and balancing instinct with strategy. The conversation delves into player dynamics, overcoming personal weaknesses, thriving under pressure, and navigating perfectionism. Owen also offers advice for aspiring players, emphasizing thoughtful decision-making, learning, and maintaining top-level performance.

In episode 48 of the MOPP, we dive deep into the poker journey of Belgium high-stakes MTT player, Pieter Aerts, a seasoned pro with 16+ years of experience. From starting out on his dad's account as a teenager to mastering the transition between different poker formats, Pieter shares how he overcame early struggles, dealt with tough competition, and climbed the ranks to success. We explore critical topics like bankroll management, overcoming downswings, leveraging GTO tools, and balancing poker with life, relationships, and long-term goals. Pieter also reveals mental frameworks, lessons from rock-bottom moments, and strategies that helped him stay ahead in a rapidly evolving game. This episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and practical advice to help you navigate your own journey. Enjoy, like & subscribe!

In episode 47 of The Mechanics of Poker podcast, we dive deep into the journey of Felix "GWValuetown" Maierhofer, an inspiring poker player who rapidly climbed the stakes with remarkable success. We explore his unique approach to studying, overcoming challenges, and developing a winning mindset. Felix shares insights into the importance of reflection, discipline, and passion, while also discussing his strategies for maintaining focus, navigating downswings, and mastering the mental game. Felix shares stories about his personal growth, life philosophy, and approach to building a supportive peer group, this episode is packed with valuable lessons for anyone who is interested in becoming a better poker player. Enjoy!

In episode 46 of The Mechanics of Poker podcast Marc Goone will reveal the to mastering live poker as he shares his journey from musician to high-stakes player and coach. We dive into the mindset shifts, strategies, and common pitfalls that separate the top 1% from the rest. Learn how to build confidence in your exploitative strategy, dissolve your ego, and set realistic goals for success. Whether you're transitioning between live and online poker or aiming to refine your skills, this conversation is packed with insights to elevate your game. Plus, Marc reveals the biggest lessons from his coaching journey and what the future holds for him. Enjoy!

In episode 45 of The Mechanics of Poker podcast, we dive into the fascinating journey of Yolan, a world record holder in memory turned high-stakes poker player. Learn about the techniques he used to master memory, his insights into effective learning, and the strategies that helped him transition into poker. Yolan shares his approach to balancing life and poker, building resilience, and overcoming burnout. Discover the lessons he's learned from mistakes, his thoughts on decision-making, and the habits that have driven his success. Whether you're looking to improve your memory, level up your poker game, or gain inspiration from a unique story of growth, this episode has something for everyone. Don't miss the key takeaways and advice Yolan offers to help you achieve your goals!

In episode 44 of the Mechanics of Poker podcast we have a chat with high-stakes cash-game player Samu Alto, a veteran who has thrived at the tables for over 15 years. Samu shares insights into the evolution of poker strategies, the impact of solvers, and the skills and habits that have fueled his longevity in a highly competitive field. We discuss his early career, the challenges of adapting to new metas, and the delicate balance between theory and exploitative play. Samu also opens up about his journey through highs and lows, the lessons learned from setbacks, and the routines that keep him sharp and motivated.

In episode 43 of the Mechanics of Poker podcast, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of Mario, who started playing poker at the young age of 13. Mario shares his unique strategies for bankroll management, how he handled the pressures of high-stakes poker, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including his first big win and the shocking realizations about his game. We also discuss the personal side of Mario's life—why he decided to leave professional football, the challenges of separating his identity from his former career, and his views on long-term success in poker and beyond. We cover the role of networking in poker, the darker side of being a high-performer, and his approach to creating a more sustainable and enjoyable poker journey. Finally, Mario reveals his thoughts on transitioning into the business world, the lessons learned from working with solvers, and how his poker skills have translated into new ventures.

In episode 42 of the Mechanics of Poker podcast we dive deep into the journey of high-stakes cash-game player Mateo "schyllae" Urretavizcaya, exploring his early beginnings in poker during the pandemic and how his background in engineering helped shape his learning process. We discuss his competitive nature, transitioning from semi-professional basketball to poker, and the challenges he faced, including busting his bankroll twice and dealing with his worst downswing. Mateo shares insights on bankroll management, handling pressure, and channeling aggression strategically. We also touch on his self-development journey, mindset shifts, and balancing theory with exploitative strategies. Tune in for valuable lessons on poker, mindset, and performance at the highest levels!

In episode 41 of the pod we chat with high-stakes cash-game player Chris "Lukabrate" Nguyen. We will explore his rapid rise to high-stakes which only took him three years. Chris shares insights on balancing math and creativity in poker, the role of empathy, and the dangers of relying too much on solvers. We also discuss his journey from university to full-time poker, the impact of his father's confidence, and the mindset shifts that helped him excel. Whether you're new to poker or a seasoned player, this episode offers valuable lessons and inspiration for your own journey.

In episode 40, we chat with high-stakes MTT player Alexandros "Pwndidi" Theologis about his transition from gaming to poker. Alex discusses how gaming prepared him for poker's challenges, including managing variance and expecting worst-case scenarios. He shares his disciplined approach to bankroll management, studying, and dividing grinding and study days efficiently. We delve into his experiences with BitB, handling mistakes, and recording sessions for improvement. Alex also provides insights on PKO tournaments, moving from mid to high stakes, and his study guidelines. Tune in for Alex's valuable advice on managing emotions, understanding poker statistically, and maintaining a love for the game. Enjoy!

In Episode 39 of the podcast, we chat with Finnish high-stakes cash-game player Severi "TheIPoker" Palmu. In this episode, Severi shares his journey, which started by playing conservatively at 2NL, grinding his bankroll all the way up to playing 10KNL. We touch on how Severi keeps up with the ever-evolving poker world, his biggest strengths as a player, the best and worst advice given in today's poker industry, being curious, self-critical, and the most important things to factor into your decision-making. We close off with various lessons learned while reflecting on his 8-year journey. Enjoy!

In Episode 38 of the podcast, we chat with the 2022 Main Event champion, Espen Uhlen Jørstad. In this episode, we discuss the biggest contributors to Espen's success in poker, as well as the unforeseen struggles that came with winning the main event. Espen shares stories from his childhood and how they have shaped his current behavior. Other topics we touch on include competing at the highest level in Triton events, the motivation for continuing to play poker at a high level after winning the main event, how to perform at your best, and mental health and loneliness in poker. Packed with wisdom as always! Enjoy!

In episode 37 of the MOPP we chat with long-time finish high-stakes MTT player Samuel "€urop€an" Vousden. In this episode european delves deep into the mindset, habits, and strategies that have propelled him to the top of the game. From insights on staying at the peak of your performance, the importance of being and remaining curious, creating an enviroment in which your creativity and style of playing can flourish, to managing mindset and energy, this conversation is packed with invaluable lessons which can help boost your poker career. Enjoy and like this video if it helped you in any way.

In episode 36 of the MOPP we chat with hungarian high-stakes poker player Laszlo "Lackoo87gcb" Molnar. Throughout the episode, Laszlo shared valuable advice based on his 15 years of experience playing poker, offering insights into skill development, study techniques, and managing motivation in the game. Laszlo shares his motivation for pursuing a career in poker, his background in competitive gaming, the upsides and downsides of risk-taking, the importance of finding useful information in poker, and the role of habits and routines in performance. Additionally, we dive into topics such as the power of critical thinking, the dangers of survival bias, the significance of working with coaches, and the keys to longevity in poker. Enjoy!

In episode 35 of the MOPP we chat with one of the biggest volume grinders out there, Frank "Mr Builderman, aka Mayothedon". In this podcast discover how Frank recognized his talent, embraced high-volume play, struggled with adiction, and navigated through the ups and downs of being an online poker pro. Gain valuable lessons on resilience, self-awareness, and finding balance amidst the grind.

In Episode 34 of the MOPP, we chat with high-stakes cash-game player Sergii Levchenko better known as Jayser1337 online. Discover the mindset, strategies, and breakthroughs that propelled Sergii from $100 NL to $1K NL and beyond. Delve into the psychology behind success, the art of reflection, and the drive to be the best. Join us as we explore Sergii's highs, lows, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. From battling cognitive biases to building a resilient belief system, this episode offers a roadmap to mastering both the game of poker and the game of life. Tune in for insights, inspiration, and actionable advice from Sergii's journey.

In Episode 33 of the MOPP, we chat with long-time high-stakes MTT pro and holder of the number one spot on the Germany all-time money list, Fedor Holz. In this episode, Fedor shares insights into his journey, why he decided to quit poker and pursue other opportunities in business and investing, and why he decided to make his comeback on the poker scene. Next to that, Fedor discusses handling success, imposter syndrome, and the pitfalls of the poker world. He delves into the mechanics of his Pokercode program, his views on data analysis, and his role in ensuring fair play on GGPoker. Plus, learn Fedor's strategies for staying at the top and his philosophy on efficient learning. Don't miss out on this fascinating conversation with one of poker's brightest minds!

In episode 32 of the MOPP, we chat with the number 1 on the all-time money list, Bryn Kenney. Bryn shares with us why he likes to take on a lot of risk and how to deal with million-dollar swings, even going broke several times in the process. We will touch on mistakes players make who just look at the solver and the endless realm of possibilities poker strategy has to offer if we give ourselves permission to be creative. Enjoy!

In episode 31 of the MOPP, we will have a chat with high-stakes poker player Nikolai "Dyrdom1" Evdokimov. Nikolai will share with us his journey, going from speedcubing and sports betting into poker, and all the perspectives he has learned throughout this journey. Enjoy!

In episode 30 of the MOPP we will have a chat with high-stakes poker player Kayhan “Kayhanmok” Mokri. In this episode we will explore strategies, experiences, and insights in to making it to the top. Whether you're a seasoned poker pro or just starting your poker journey, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won't want to miss. Tune in and make sure to subscribe for all the poker wisdom coming your way!

In episode 29 of the MOPP we chat with poker player, coach, strategy creator Patrick Howard. In this episode we discuss Patrick's inspiring poker journey, the importance of work ethic, structured learning approaches, adapting to player pool tendencies, battling downswings and mental hurdles, coping with burnout and anxiety, mental health struggles, the significance of reaching out for help, poker's isolation challenges, and much more. Whether you're a poker enthusiast or looking for insights into mental resilience, this podcast has something for you. Don't miss out!

In episode 28 of the MOPP we chat with high-stakes cash-game player Owen “PRODIGY” Messers. In the pod we discuss his recent 100k HU match against Doug Polk and dive deep into his poker journey, discussing challenges, strategies, and his transition from international-level chess. Unpack the psychology behind decision-making, understand the mechanics of poker, and discover how to optimize your game with solvers. Owen also touches on the balance of talent vs. hard work and shares invaluable lessons he's learned along the way. Don't miss Adam and Rene's main takeaways at the end!

In episode 27 of the MOPP, we chat with high-stakes PLO player and enterpeneur Fernando "Jnandez87" Habegger. Discover what attracted Fernando to poker and why he invested $2500 in a PLO strategy book. Learn about the entrepreneurial spirit that led him to view poker as a thriving business opportunity. Fernando shares how he leverages his unique skill sets, embraces risk, uses data, making a difference in poker and life and offers invaluable advice on skill development and strategic game selection.

In episode 26 of the MOPP, we will chat with israelian all round high-stakes NLH player Barak Wisbrod. Barak shares his journey from starting as a degenerate gambler to becoming a high-stakes pro. Discover how he overcame the hurdles of going broke multiple times, transitioning from MTTs to cash games, and finding his place among poker's elite. Barak's story is a testament to the power of resilience, embracing pain, and evolving one's approach to achieve success. Gain insights into the mindset and strategies that separate mid-stakes players from high-stakes contenders. From handling massive swings to building a high-stakes network, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and inspiration

In episode 25 of the MOPP, we will chat with one the biggest american online cash-game winners Matt "ILuvAvrilLavigne91" Marinelli's. From deciding to pursue poker full-time to finding a supportive poker tribe, Matt shares his experiences and the biggest mistake he overcame by implementing simplified strategies. Matt's transformation from 100NL to 5KNL, overcoming downswings, and shaping a winning mindset are truely inspiring. Tune in for an in-depth look at poker success, self-belief, and the mindset of a true champion. Don't miss the key takeaway towards the end Matt wants you to walk away with!

In this episode we chat with brazilian high-stakes cash-game player Matheus "Xpl01t4bl3" Pinheiro. Matheus reflects on the importance of presence, the drive to push beyond comfort zones, and his struggle with setting goals. We explore his transition to professional poker, facing setbacks, anxiety attacks, and the power of therapy. Matheus shares insights on self-care and his experiences with coaches. From coping with downswings to mindset shifts, he offers valuable lessons and reflections on his career. Don't miss Adam and Rene's summary at the end!

In todays episode we talk with dutch high-stakes MTT pro Jans "Graftekkel" Arends on the back of his Triton wins in Vietnam where he took home close to 1.5 milion dollars. We cover the road he had to walk in order to get himself in the position to compete daily in some of the thoughest fields in the world. Enjoy!

If you thought or think that poker is dead, Josef is here to show you otherwise. He started taking poker seriously during covid and has since then reached the 10KNL online cash-games. You will learn about the power or perspective, tips to study and approach the game more effectively and why players are stuck and how to make that jump up in stakes. We are sure you are going to enjoy this conversation as much as we did!

In this episode, we will chat with Andrew "LuckyChewy" Lichtenberger. Andrew has been in poker for a long time and has reinvented himself many times over. We will talk about how he has changed his views on life, career, money, and health while constantly developing his poker game to keep up with modern-day strategies. We will discuss the hardest moments he had to overcome in his career and what he learned by going through these periods, and relive his high points. Another episode packed with wisdom to learn from, enjoy!

In todays episode we have a chat with high-stakes MTT player Ben Heath. Ben gives us an insight about the mentality one needs to have in order to play super high-rollers. Learn about the road Ben took in order to reach these super high-stakes, and the obstacles he had to overcome to become one of the best MTT players in the world.

In this episode we speak with high stakes cash game crusher Naoufel "Bonk30" Smires in one of his rare public appearances. He shares with us how he uses poker as a path to personal growth, including using meditation and breath work as performance enhancing tools. You will learn how his holistic approach to poker gives him an edge in some of the biggest online games around and how he was able to play a ridiculous 1 million hands at 500NL Zoom in one year when he transitioned to online poker

In this episode we speak with cash game regular and BitB coach George “You-Mad-Br0” Froggatt about his rise through the poker stakes. He shares with us how he finally got himself out of the mid stakes trap, his aversion for risk and lessons he learnt living with and playing against the legends of high stakes cash games.

In this episode, we will chat with long-time high-stakes poker player Matt Berkey. Matt will share his 20-year journey in poker, which found him reflecting on if this is something worth pursuing ten years after having gone broke several times. At some point, he was down $5,000,000 playing 300/600/1200 in Ivey's room while simultaneously dealing with a personal loss. In the pod, he will share with us the mindset and technical abilities he had to develop to turn things around. Enjoy!

In todays podcast Viktor “Enlightq aka Zas” Kudinov walks us through his journey towards poker successer success. He grew up in a hard environment and saw being competitive in sports and games as a way towards a better life. He shares how he uses anger as a competitive driver to put in insane amounts of volume both on the tables and in the lab. This drive also has it's dark sides as he overdid it and ended up burning out. He then had to redevelop his strategy and refound his motivation for the game and is currently playing the highest stakes in online cash-games and in live MTTs

In this episode we switch to what some people call the great game of Pot-limit Omaha. We will have a chat with Gruffudd "d.apollo777" Jones who is known as one of the best HU PLO cash-game players on the internet. Gruffudd shares his road to the highest stakes and how he has always looked to poke at players first to see if they are really that good instead of putting them on a pedestal before having even played them. With this approach he has left many battles as the winner while others as the person who learned a lot preparing him better for future opposition.

In this episode we speak with $100KNL superstar Sergey “MunEZ_StaRR” Nikiforov about his journey to playing the nose bleeds. He shares with us how he was able to keep moving up stakes, the challenges he faced trying to break into $2KNL and why a lot of $100KNL regs are scared money.

In this episode, we talk with high stakes player Jose “JMBigJoe” Jimenez about his 12-year journey to playing the biggest online poker games. Jose is obsessed with growing in all areas of his life, and he shares with us the profound impact of silent retreats, spending time in nature and being structuring his days has had on his poker success.

In today's podcast, we will have a chat with Julian "JVL_Starrrr69" Schultheis. Julian has been playing online poker professionally for over 12 years and plays high stakes cash-games. He has credited a big part of his success to his work ethic which he learned when he was younger being competitive in both video games and football. Being a professional player has made him develop a stoic mentality which next to technical poker wisdom he will share with you in this episode.

In this episode we speak with the 2021 MTT Player of The Year Pedro ‘Pvigar' Garagnani, who has been one of the most consistent online winners in the last few years. In this wide-ranging conversation, we discuss how he is able to deal with extreme downswings, why emotions are a big part of poker and the skills that you need to develop to have poker success in the modern game.

In this episode, we speak with exploitive wizard Uri Peleg, whose out-of-the-box thinking has earned a host of admirers from some of the world's best players. He talks about the pros and cons of playing exploitative poker, why he thinks GTO is an easy way to justify a bad play and why he adopts the mindset that all his opponents are fish even in high-stakes games.

In this episode we speak with the charismatic High Roller Johan “YoH ViraL” Guilbert. He walks us through his journey from losing his bankroll trying to play like Tom Dwan, to later playing against Dwan in some of the world's biggest cash games. Johan shares with us his unique Micro and Marco strategies that poker players at all levels can apply to progress with their poker careers.

In this video, we speak with NL5K regular Luke “Clanty” Johnson about his meteoric rise to the high stakes. He shares with us how he instills confidence when moving up stakes, the importance of thinking in EV, and how he has built his game around GTO using creative solver approaches.

In this episode, we speak with high stakes crusher Tobias “Dudd1” Duthweiler who shares his unique journey which took him from working with mentally disabled children to beating the highest online poker games. Tobias walks us through what it really takes to make it to the top, how he recovered from going broke and building an unshakable confidence.

In this episode, we speak with the number 1 ranked online tournament player in the world Patrick “Pads1161” Leonard. You will learn how his passion for the game, combined with his intense work ethic has allowed him to stay at the very top of the MTT world for the past 8 years.

In this episode, we speak with Brazilian high stakes cash and BrPC stable co-owner Matheus 'Zinhao' Moraes. He's one of the most successful players in Brazil and today he shares with us where his competitive drive comes from, common mistakes players make when using mass data analysis, and the character traits that have allowed him to be a successful high stakes crusher.

In this episode, we speak with all-round NLH crusher Steffen ‘Go0se.core' Sontheimer who shares with us his journey to the highest stakes in both cash-games and tournaments. We will learn how being competitive from a young age and always looking to play in games where he has an edge has increased the chances of him succeeding in poker. But maybe even more important, he shares with us valuable knowledge on value based decision making so you can succeed in life based on your definition of success. We also talk about his approach to the current games he is playing, his coaching philosophy, and why players get stuck at mid-stakes.