Upswing Poker Level-Up

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HAND RECAP (7 handed, 14 players left, 600K/1.2M blinds - 1.2M BB ante)Coelho (13.3M chips) raises to 2.4M with A♦ A♣. Kristen Foxen (49M chips) calls in the Big Blind with K♦ K♣.Flop A♠ T♥ 5♠. Foxen checks. Coelho bets 1.2M. Foxen calls.Turn 8♥. Foxen checks. Coelho bets 3M. Foxen calls.River 3♣. Foxen checks. Coelho bets 6.7M all-in. Foxen folds.There's $10 million on the line with just 2 tables left in the World Series of Poker Main Event. Kristen Foxen is one of, if not the most talented players left in the tournament, but she runs into the nightmare “Pocket Kings vs Pocket Aces” scenario in this hand. Can she sometimes find a way to NOT double up her opponent? Get 33% off Aaron Barone's exclusive training content in the Upswing Lab during the Vegas Winners Sale* at https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coaching*Expires when the 2024 WSOP Main Event ends!Watch the full final table at https://www.pokergo.com/Video Version of This Episode | Written Version of This EpisodeCHAPTERS00:00 Introduction & Sale Announcement01:08 Strategic Analysis: Preflop Action03:12 Big Blind Decisions: Facing the Min-Raise03:58 Flop Play and Strategic Considerations06:27 Turn Play Analysis09:32 Critical Moment: The River12:37 Conclusion & Final ThoughtsIn this enthralling episode of our poker tournament podcast, we dive deep into a gripping hand from the World Series of Poker Main Event, where a staggering $10 million is on the line. This poker tournament podcast episode, part of our series, features an intricate analysis by coach Aaron Barone. As the poker tournament podcast unravels this complex play, we focus on a pivotal hand between Coelho and Kristen Foxen, spotlighting a dramatic showdown of Aces versus Kings.In our poker tournament podcast, we set the stage in the late phases of the WSOP, with only 14 players remaining and significant pay jumps at stake. Coelho, armed with pocket Aces and an 11-big-blind stack, opts for a strategic min-raise, aiming to entice his opponents into the pot rather than pushing all-in. This nuanced decision sparks a detailed discussion in our poker tournament podcast about the merits and risks of such a strategy in high-stakes tournaments.Kristen Foxen, holding pocket Kings, faces this min-raise in the Big Blind. The podcast explores her dilemma: to play aggressively or to trap. The flop brings an Ace, heightening the tension as Foxen checks, leading to a back-and-forth of minimal bets and calls that crescendo through the turn and river. Each street is dissected by our experts in the poker tournament podcast, examining the psychological warfare and strategic intricacies at play.As the hand concludes with Foxen's fold on the river, the poker tournament podcast reflects on her ability to minimize losses in a situation where many would falter. This episode not only provides a thorough breakdown of each player's decisions but also integrates listener questions, enhancing the learning experience.This poker tournament podcast is a must-listen for anyone fascinated by the high-stakes decisions and subtle tactics that define professional poker. Engaging commentary and expert analysis make this not just a recount of events but a lesson in poker strategy, delivered in the context of one of the game's most prestigious stages. Join us in this poker tournament podcast episode for a masterclass in tournament poker strategy, and don't forget to take advantage of the exclusive training content discount in the Upswing Lab.Subscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

HAND RECAP (6 handed, final table, 300K/600K blinds - 600K BB ante)Ben Tollerene (55M chips) raises to 1.2M from UTG with J♣ T♦. Taylor von Kriegenbergh (22M chips) calls from the Button with K♠ K♥.(Stack size notes: This is a battle between the top two stacks. There are two short stacked players with around 10 big blinds each.)Flop K♣ 6♦ 3♥. Tollerene bets 900K. TVK calls.Turn 9♥. Tollerene bets 1.7M. TVK calls.River Q♦. Tollerene 2.8M. TVK raises to 8.8M. Tollerene moves all-in. TVK calls 9.3M more.Get 33% off Aaron Barone's exclusive training content in the Upswing Lab during the WSOP Winners Sale* at https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coaching*Expires when the 2024 WSOP Main Event ends!Watch the full final table at https://www.pokergo.com/Video Version of This Episode | Written Version of This EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

HAND RECAP (5 handed, final table, 100K/200K blinds - 200K BB ante)Viktor “Isildur1” Blom (14M chips) raises to 700K from the Small Blind with K♦ 4♠. Jesse Lonis (9.5M chips) calls from the Big Blind with A♠ 3♠.(Stack size notes: Blom and Lonis are in 2nd and 3rd chip position. The chip leader has 20M. There are two relatively short stacks.)The flop is 4♣ 4♥ 3♣. Blom bets 400K. Lonis calls.Turn 6♠. Blom bets 1.45M. Lonis calls.River Q♠. Blom bets 3.25M. Lonis folds.Get 33% off Aaron Barone's exclusive training content in the Upswing Lab during the WSOP Winners Sale* at https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coaching*Expires when the 2024 WSOP Main Event ends!Watch the full final table at https://www.pokergo.com/Video Version of This Episode | Written Version of This EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

HAND RECAP (6 handed, final table, 125K/250K blinds - 250K BB ante)Ausmus (4.5M chips) raises to 500K from the Cutoff with A♥ Q♥. Only Reichard (3.2M chips) calls from the Big Blind with J♥ 8♣.(Stack size notes: Reichard is the shortest stack. Ausmus is one of the shorter stacks, but everyone besides the chip leader has fewer than 30 big blinds. The chip leader has around 18M.)Flop T♣ 3♣ 2♣. Reichard checks. Ausmus bets 300K. Reichard calls.Turn 7♠. Both players check.River 2♠. Reichard bets 2.1M into 2M. Ausmus calls with just Ace-high.Get access to Aaron Barone's exclusive training content in the Upswing Lab: https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coachingWatch the full final table at https://www.pokergo.com/Video Version of This Episode | Written Version of This EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

HAND #1 (8 handed, in the money, blinds 10K/25K - 25K BB ante)Reard (740K stack) raises to 50K with Q♣ J♠ from middle position. Kornuth (2.2M stack) folds A♣ 9♥  from Small Blind. Deeb (990K stack) calls 6♠ 3♠ from Big Blind.Flop T♠ 9♣ 3♣. Deeb checks. Reard bets 45K. Deeb calls.Turn A♠. Deeb checks. Reard bets 135K. Deeb all-in for 645K effective. Reard folds.HAND #2 (7 handed, in the money, blinds 15K/30K - 30K BB ante)Bleznick (1.9M stack) calls in the Small Blind with A♣ Q♠. Schulman (1.6M stack) checks with 6♥ 2♣.Flop 9♥ 9♣ 4♣. Bleznick checks. Schulman bets 30K into 90K. Bleznick calls.Turn 7♥. Bleznick checks. Schulman bets 150K. Bleznick calls.River 5♥. Bleznick checks. Schulman bets 350K. Bleznick folds.Get access to Aaron Barone's exclusive training content in the Upswing Lab: https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coachingVideo Version of This Episode | Written Version of This EpisodeWatch the full final table at https://www.pokergo.com/Subscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

Let's analyze WSOP final table hands with over $400K on the line! Want to fast-track your tournament poker skills? Get in the Upswing Lab to get access to Aaron Barone's exclusive training content: https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coaching/ Video Version of This Episode | Written Version of This Episode Event #12 $1,500 6-Max Payouts: 1st - $439K | 2nd - $293K | 3rd - $210K | 4th - $153K | 5th - $112K | 6th - $83K | 7th - 63KHAND #1 (7 players left 100K/200K blinds - 200K BB ante)Spasov raises to 400K from UTG w/ T♦ T♣. Dube folds K♦ Q♥ from UTG+1. Only Fan calls from BB with A♠ J♥.(Stack size notes: Spasov has 8M chips and is in 5th. Dube has 9M chips and is in 3rd. Fan has 11.5M chips and is in 2nd. There is a very short stack with 1.3M chips.)Flop J♣ T♠ 3♦. Fan checks. Spasov bets 350K. Fan calls.Turn 3♥. Fan leads for 500K. Spasov calls.River 2♦. Fan bets 850K. Spasov raises all-in for 4.45M. Fan calls.HAND #2 (5 players left 150K/300K blinds - 300K BB ante)Fan raises to 650K from the Button w/ A♣ 6♣. Spasov calls from the SB w/ 9♥ 8♥. Dube calls from the BB w/ 4♦ 2♦.(Stack size notes: Fan has 8M chips and is in 3rd. Spasov has 21M in chips and is in 2nd. Dube has 6M in chips and is in 4th. The shortest stack has 3M chips.Flop A♠ T♦ 5♠. Checks around.Turn J♦. Spasov bets 1.1M. Dube folds his straight+flush draw. Fan calls.River 8♣. Spasov bets 5.7M all-in (1.3x pot). Fan folds.Watch the full final table at https://www.pokergo.com/Subscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

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

This podcast reveals the truth about blockers in poker. Upgrade your tournament skills and save up to 51% during the World Series of Tournaments sale at Upswing Poker https://upswingpoker.com/wsot-sale/ Blockers are a fundamental part of poker strategy, but they're also one of the most misunderstood parts of poker strategy. Many players disregard blockers and leave money on the table. Other players over-value blockers in certain situations and flush money down the toilet as a result.***CORRECTION 11:36***Gary meant to say "where your opponent's FOLDING range is Jacks and Tens" (he mistakenly said calling)Article Version of this Episode | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

They're taking your money. Here's what you can do about it. Upgrade your tournament skills and save up to 51% during the World Series of Tournaments sale at Upswing Poker https://upswingpoker.com/wsot-sale/You may be surprised to learn that these different rake structures should impact the way you play. Put simply, when money is being taken out of the pot, your pot odds and strategic incentives change. If you're playing the same regardless of the rake structure, you're likely leaving money on the table. But you won't make that mistake after finishing this episode.Written Version of this Episode | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

This episode reveals 7 fundamental tips for poker tournaments that will help you run deep more often and play more confidently. The advice ranges from preflop tactics to postflop strategies. Pay close attention if you want to build bigger stacks and win tournaments!Want to upgrade your tournament skills with elite coaching? Save up to 51% on best-selling courses made by millionaire tournament pros during the World Series of Tournaments sale at UpswingPoker.com.Article Version of this Episode | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

You must make strategic adjustments, both before and after the flop, when there's a straddle in play. Otherwise, you're simply leaving money on the table. Pots are much bigger and stacks will be flying back and forth, so it's critical you get this close to right in-game. Want to improve your tournament skills? Save up to 51% on best-selling courses made by millionaire tournament pros during the World Series of Tournaments sale at UpswingPoker.com.Written Version of this Episode | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

This podcast will help you win more money with hands like pocket aces, kings and queens! Poker pro Gary Blackwood shares his top 5 tips for playing overpairs in No Limit Hold'em. These tips will help you get better results with your strong overpairs like Aces on a King-high flop, as well as your vulnerable overpairs like Pocket Eights on a Seven-high flop.Get Gary Blackwood's master class on making money with overpairs inside the Upswing Lab training course. Use coupon code LEVELUP to get $50 off at: https://upswingpoker.com/the-poker-lab-coaching/Written Version of this Episode | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

What separates a great poker player from a good poker player is often bet sizing. Knowing how to size your bets like a studied pro allows you to make more money with your strong hands and run more effective bluffs. This episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up will help you improve your bet sizing skills with 3 example situations posed as quiz questions. In all of these spots, you will play as the in position player who 3-bet before the flop. Upgrade your poker game by practicing against a “perfect” opponent who gives you instant feedback with the Lucid GTO Trainer. Get it now at: https://upswingpoker.com/lucid-gto-trainer/ Written Version of this Episode | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

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

You're about to level-up your poker game with money making counter-strategies from a high stakes pro. WSOP bracelet winner Alex Vuilleumier joins the podcast to share his top 3 exploits that you can use against weaker players. Alex just released two courses on Upswing Poker. The first is called Precision Poker and its Alex's master class on how to study poker. He teaches how to build your own game using modern tools and train your skills with mental exercises.If you get Precision Poker during by this Friday (Feb. 16), you'll also get his second course Exploit & Conquer ($299) for free.The lion's share of Exploit & Conquer is all about how to exploit the 62 most common mistakes players make at the table. Sneak a peek inside both courses at https://upswingpoker.com/precision-poker-mastering-methodology/ Video Version | Episode TranscriptionSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

The river is when the pot is at its biggest. That means good plays are heavily rewarded and mistakes are magnified. In this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up, you'll learn how to improve your strategy on the river so you make better decisions on this extremely consequential street. Poker pro Gary Blackwood shares his 5 most valuable tips for playing the river alongside Mike Brady. If you want your bluffs to work more often and your strong hands to bring in as many chips as possible, listen closely to tips #3 and 5. Video Version | Episode Transcription Upswing Poker is almost ready to release its game-changing poker tool. Sign up for the waitlist for the upcoming Lucid GTO Trainer at https://upswingpoker.com/lucid-waitlist/ Subscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

Let's analyze some poker hands! Upswing Lab members submitted hands to be reviewed on the Level-Up podcast and we chose 3 particularly interesting ones to go over. Hand #1 features analysis from the upcoming Lucid GTO Trainer tool. Hands #2 and #3 are straight-up street poker!The hands are recapped below (with no spoilers) to help you follow along. Sign up for the Lucid GTO Trainer waitlist at https://upswingpoker.com/lucid-waitlist/Video Version | Episode Transcription**Hand #1** $0.50/$1 on GGPoker. $131 stacks. Simon raises to $2.50 with T♥ 9♥. The Button 3-bets to $9. Simon calls.Flop: Q♦ 8♦ 6♣ - Simon checks. Button bets $12 into $19. Simon raises to $29. Button calls.Turn: K♦ - Simon bets $25 into $77. Button calls. River: 2♣ - Simon all-in for $67 into $125.  **Hand #2**$2/$5 Live Cash Game. $2,500 Effective Stacks.Note: A King was exposed & mucked preflop.UTG+1 raises to $15. Button 3-bets to $60. Sam 4-bets to $200 with 8♠ 8♥. Both call.Flop: K♦ K♣ J♠ - Sam bets $100. UTG+1 calls. Button folds.Turn: 9♥ - Sam bets $550 into $800. UTG+1 calls.River: 9♣ - Sam all-in for $1,650 into $1,900.**Hand #3**$1/$3 Live Cash Game. $290 Effective Stacks.David is in the Hijack with K♥ Q♣UTG+1 limps. David raises to $20. Button and Big Blind call. UTG+1 folds.Flop: Q♥ 7♥ 3♥ - Big Blind leads $55 into $60. David calls. Turn: K♦ - Big Blind bets $145 into $175. David all-in for $225. Subscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

Get in on the biggest sale of the year on UpswingPoker: https://upswingpoker.com/advanced-poker-training/ Playing your strong hands aggressively is usually the best way to maximize profit in poker. Generally speaking, fast playing equals more money, but you are about to discover three situations where you'll actually make more money by slow-playing with Pocket Aces in both tournaments and cash games from Level-Up Host Mike Brady and poker pro Gary Blackwood. Video Version | Episode TranscriptionSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

 Poker starting hands that are both suited and connected can be massive money-makers. But they can also cost you your stack if you over-play them. Do you know the proper times to raise, 3-bet, and call a 3-bet with suited connectors? And are you aware of the preference towards lower suited connectors in certain scenarios? Alongside host Mike Brady, poker pro Gary Blackwood gives you the answers to those key questions and more in this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up. Video Version | Episode TranscriptionArticle reference: Why 54s is Better Than 98s https://upswingpoker.com/54s-vs-98s-preflop/ Subscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

Poker success starts before the flop. If you make preflop mistakes, like raising too big or too small, you won't be able to maximize your winnings on the flop, turn and river. But the optimal preflop raise sizes aren't always intuitive. It's only since the advent of solvers that poker pros have truly been able to dial in their preflop sizing. Mike Brady and poker pro Gary Blackwood walk you through the optimal open-raise, 3-bet, and 4-bet sizes in this episode. Plus, sizing adjustments you should make based on stack sizes and opponent tendencies. Join the early access waitlist for the Lucid GTO Trainer: https://upswingpoker.com/lucid-waitlist Video Version | Episode TranscriptionSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

Do you know how to respond when you get check-raised after betting? In theory (and if you're facing tough players), you have to continue with many more hands than you might expect on certain flops. But on other flops, you should actually play quite "A-B-C" versus check-raises by only calling or re-raising with strong, equity driven hands. Mike Brady and poker pro Gary Blackwood walk you through how to battle back against check-raises on 4 different flop types in this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up Join the early access waitlist for the Lucid GTO Trainer: https://upswingpoker.com/lucid-waitlist Video Version | Episode TranscriptionSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

Heads-up poker is fast and action-packed. You have to play loose and aggressive to maximize your win-rate. But you also have to be precise with your aggression to avoid spewing money to your opponent.Whether you play heads-up or not, you can benefit a lot from learning heads-up strategy. Case in point: Doug Polk has had a ton of success in non-heads-up games throughout his career, and he owes a lot of that success to the skills he gained playing heads-up.Mike Brady is joined by Doug to run through the fundamentals of heads-up No Limit Hold'em strategy in this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up.Doug's new course The End Boss System is available now. Learn more at https://upswingpoker.com/the-end-boss-system/Video Version | Episode TranscriptionSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

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!Video Version | Episode TranscriptionCheck out the live poker episode Mike references here.Subscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

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/Video Version | Episode TranscriptionSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

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/ Video Version | Episode TranscriptionSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

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-coachingVideo Version | TranscriptionSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

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. Video Version | Episode TranscriptionSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

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 | Video VersionSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

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 | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

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 | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

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 | Video 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 Subscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

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/ Video Version | Written Version  Subscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

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 | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

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 one 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 | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

Ace-high flops are the most common type of flop in the game, but they certainly aren't the easiest to play correctly. Many poker players use an over-simplified strategy on these flops, playing all Ace-high flops very similarly, but that is far from the best way to play them. Instead, you must consider the subtle factors that separate one Ace-high flop from the next and how those factors should impact your strategy.Learn those subtle factors and the strategies you should use on Ace-high boards from Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood 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 | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

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 | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

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 | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

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 | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

You might know when and how to check-raise in poker, but do you know how to proceed on the turn when your check-raise gets called? How should you decide which hands to continue betting for value? And when should you keep up the aggression with a bluff?  Gary Blackwood and Mike Brady help you understand the answers to these questions and more so you're equipped to handle these tricky post-check-raise situations. 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.Written Version of this Episode | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

Splashy live poker games with lots of action are incredibly profitable. But they can be incredibly frustrating too, especially if you don't know how to adjust your strategy for maximum profit. In this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up, Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood cover the most critical adjustments that you must make when playing in loose, splashy live poker games. 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 | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

You've bet on the flop and your opponent called. The turn comes and you're mulling over whether or not to bet again. This episode will help you arrive at the right decision regardless of the specific board and your specific hand. This episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up is meant to help you get better at double barreling, aka c-betting on the turn, aka betting on the turn after raising preflop and betting on the flop. If you really want to take your poker skills to the next level, head over to 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. Written Version of this Episode | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

Poker has been changed forever. The best players in the world spend countless hours studying with tools like PioSOLVER, and that's enabled the discovery of crucial strategies that allow smart players to win more money at faster rates. In this episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up, Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood list 7 of the most valuable strategic discoveries of the solver era. Whether or not you study with solvers yourself, you'll get a lot of value from this discussion. Get the new PioSOLVER Crash Course when you join the Upswing Lab at https://upswingpoker.com/piosolver-crash-course/ Written Version of this Episode | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

Every time you have a suited hand, there is an 11% chance that you will flop a flush draw. How well you play those flush draws will have a pretty big impact on your bottom line.The Upswing Poker Level-Up boys walk you through playing flush draws as the preflop raiser and the preflop caller, both in and out of position. You'll learn which specific flush draw combinations perform best as bets, which flush draws you should check, and key adjustments to make in multiway pots.If you really want to take your poker skills to the next level, head over to 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. Written Version of this Episode | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes

Most poker players don't 4-bet often enough, and that's a huge mistake. 4-betting allows you to drive the action and build pots with your big hands while punishing aggressive 3-bettors. But in order to be a tough opponent, you have to 4-bet with some bluffs as well.This episode of Upswing Poker Level-Up covers how to build an optimal 4-betting range that includes the proper value hands and well-chosen bluffs. Mike and Gary also go over 4-bet sizing and how different factors should impact your 4-bet strategy.If you really want to take your poker skills to the next level, head over to 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.Written Version of this Episode | Video Version of this EpisodeSubscribe to Upswing Poker on YouTube for Video Versions of These Episodes