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!

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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.

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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.

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/

Written Version of This Episode

00:00 Introduction and Overview

01:26 Coelho's Min Raise with Pocket Aces

03:12 Kristen Foxen’s Decision with Pocket Kings

05:38 Flop Analysis: Ace-Ten-Five

08:06 Turn Play and Strategy with the Eight of Hearts

11:48 River Decisions and Final Moves

14:20 Post-Hand Analysis and Key Takeaways

16:47 Upswing Lab Promotion and Conclusion

In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Aaron Barone analyze a dramatic hand from the World Series of Poker Main Event where pocket Aces face off against pocket Kings. With just 14 players remaining and a $10 million first prize at stake, every decision is crucial. This hand, involving an 11 big blind effective stack, unfolds in a surprising way that offers listeners a deep dive into the strategic complexities of tournament poker at the highest level.

The discussion begins by setting the stage for this intense showdown. Coelho, sitting on a short stack of 11 big blinds, opts to min-raise with pocket Aces instead of shoving all-in, a decision aimed at enticing action from his opponents. Mike and Aaron explore the merits of this approach, weighing the potential benefits of a smaller raise against the risks of allowing more players to see a flop. They discuss how this unconventional play can maximize value and create opportunities for trapping.

As the action unfolds, the focus shifts to Kristen Foxen in the big blind, who holds pocket Kings. With a middling stack of 40 big blinds, she faces a tough decision against a small raise. Aaron explains why flat-calling with Kings, rather than reraising, can be a powerful tool in this situation, especially when considering the Independent Chip Model (ICM) pressure and the dynamics of stack sizes at a final table.

The podcast delves into the complexities of post-flop play, with Coelho hitting top set on an Ace-high flop and Kristen navigating a tricky situation with her Kings. Mike and Aaron break down the decision-making process on each street, discussing the importance of continuation betting, the psychological aspects of slowing down with a strong hand, and the nuances of extracting value without giving away too much information.

This poker strategy podcast offers listeners a masterclass in final table play, highlighting the importance of balancing aggression with caution and understanding the motivations behind each move. Whether you're an aspiring pro or a seasoned player, this episode provides valuable insights into high-stakes tournament strategy, helping you sharpen your skills and make better decisions under pressure. Tune in to learn from the pros and elevate your poker game to the next level.

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/

Written Version of This Episode

00:00 Introduction and Overview

02:30 Discussion of Tyler Von Kriegenbergh's Flat with Pocket Kings

04:29 Flop Analysis: Top Set vs. Air Ball

06:22 Turn Strategy: Straight Draw Development

08:19 River Decision: Nut Straight vs. Top Set

10:46 Evaluating the All-In and Call Scenarios

12:55 Final Thoughts on ICM Pressure and Strategy

14:34 Conclusion and Upswing Lab Promo

In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Aaron Barone dissect an intense hand from the $250,000 Super High Roller tournament at the World Series of Poker (WSOP). With over $5 million on the line for the winner, the stakes couldn’t be higher, and this hand showcases the complexities and high-pressure decisions that define top-level poker. Mike and Aaron walk listeners through each stage of the hand, breaking down the moves and thought processes of the players involved to provide a comprehensive analysis.

The hand begins with Ben Tollerene, the overwhelming chip leader, raising under the gun with Jack-Ten offsuit, a decision influenced by his deep stack and ability to apply pressure on the shorter stacks at the table. The discussion moves to Tyler Von Kriegenbergh’s choice to flat-call with pocket Kings on the button, a move that sets the stage for a dynamic post-flop battle. Aaron explains why this call, rather than a three-bet, maximizes value by potentially inducing action from the blinds or allowing Tollerene to barrel into him with weaker hands.

Listeners will learn about the critical decision points as the board develops with a King-High flop, where Von Kriegenbergh flops top set against Tollerene's air. The hosts explore the nuances of continuation betting and sizing, discussing how Tollerene’s small bets keep his opponent’s range wide and how Von Kriegenbergh's flat calls are designed to trap and extract maximum value. As the hand progresses to the turn and river, the dynamics shift dramatically when Tollerene completes a nut straight, leading to a series of tough decisions for Von Kriegenbergh.

This poker strategy podcast delves into key concepts such as ICM pressure, stack size management, and the psychological aspects of making high-stakes decisions under intense scrutiny. Mike and Aaron also discuss alternative strategies, like potential check-raising lines and the merits of betting small versus large, depending on the situation.

Tune in to this episode of our poker strategy podcast for an in-depth look at how to navigate complex final table scenarios and improve your understanding of high-stakes tournament play. Whether you’re preparing for your next big tournament or simply enjoy learning from the pros, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice to elevate your game.

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/

Written Version of This Episode

00:00 Introduction and Overview

01:29 Viktor Blom’s Strategy from the Small Blind

03:21 Jesse Lonis’s Big Blind Defense with Ace-Three

04:13 Flop Analysis: Viktor’s Trips vs. Jesse’s Pair

05:39 Turn Play: Analyzing the Six of Spades

07:09 River Decision: Queen of Spades and Viktor’s Bet

11:03 Jesse’s Tough River Call or Fold

14:30 Final Thoughts and Tournament Updates

15:31 Upswing Lab Promo and Conclusion

In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, host Mike Brady is joined by tournament pro Aaron Barone to analyze a thrilling hand from the $50,000 buy-in tournament at the World Series of Poker (WSOP). With $2 million on the line for the winner, the stakes are incredibly high, and the episode offers listeners a front-row seat to a deep dive into the key decisions and strategies at play during this final table showdown.

The discussion begins with the setup of the hand featuring Viktor Blom, known as "Isildur1," facing off against Jesse Lonis. With only five players left, each player has secured nearly $500,000, but all eyes are on the top prize. Viktor Blom, holding King-four offsuit, decides to apply pressure on Jesse Lonis, who holds Ace-three of spades in the big blind. The hosts explore the dynamics of this decision, emphasizing how Blom leverages his big stack to exploit the smaller stacks at the table.

As the hand progresses, listeners are walked through the action from the flop to the river, where Blom's aggressive playstyle and calculated bets put Lonis in a challenging spot. The podcast highlights the complexities of tournament play, particularly in a final table setting, where decisions are influenced by Independent Chip Model (ICM) considerations, stack sizes, and the potential pay jumps.

Mike and Aaron examine the critical turn and river decisions, discussing the nuances of continuation betting, sizing strategies, and the balancing act between value betting and bluffing. This poker strategy podcast offers insights into how elite players like Blom navigate high-pressure situations, using both fundamental principles and creative tactics to outmaneuver their opponents.

Tune in to this poker strategy podcast to gain a deeper understanding of advanced tournament strategy, learn how to adjust your play based on varying stack sizes, and pick up practical tips to enhance your decision-making under pressure. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a recreational player looking to sharpen your skills, this episode provides valuable lessons from some of the game's top minds.

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-coaching

Watch the full final table at https://www.pokergo.com/

Written Version of This Episode

00:00 Introduction to Tournament Tips

04:23 Tip 2: Defend Your Big Blind Often

08:42 Tip 3: Be Cautious with Three-Bet Bluffing

11:02 Tip 4: Adjust Your Three-Betting with Deep Stacks

13:21 Tip 5: Smart Continuation Betting

18:08 Tip 6: Plan for Future Streets

21:06 Tip 7: Learn Basic Heads-Up Play

In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, host Mike Brady presents seven critical tips to elevate your tournament poker game. Drawing from the expertise of Miikka Anttonen, a renowned Finnish poker player, this episode provides actionable insights to help you run deeper and play more confidently in poker tournaments.

The podcast begins with Tip 1, focusing on raising frequently when the action folds to you. Mike explains why small raises, particularly with antes in play, can be highly profitable even with marginal hands, and how to adjust your raising range based on the tendencies of the players in the blinds. Listeners will learn the importance of understanding the math behind these moves and how to exploit different player types effectively.

In Tip 2, the emphasis shifts to defending your big blind more often. Mike breaks down the pot odds calculations and explains why you should call more frequently, especially against smaller raises. He also discusses how to adjust your defense strategy in multi-way pots and why you should avoid over-defending against stronger opponents.

Tip 3 highlights the dangers of three-bet bluffing with middling stacks, where Mike outlines which hands to choose for three-bet bluffs and why understanding stack size dynamics is crucial in these spots. Tip 4 continues with adjustments for deep stack play, where Mike recommends adopting a cash game-like approach to three-betting, focusing on a linear range to maintain balance and avoid predictability.

The podcast also delves into smart continuation betting in Tip 5, where Mike offers guidance on when to bet, check, or fold based on the board texture and the ranges of both you and your opponent. Tip 6 emphasizes the importance of planning for future streets, advising players to think ahead about possible turn and river scenarios to avoid tricky spots and make better decisions

Finally, Tip 7 encourages players to learn basic heads-up strategies, even if heads-up play is rare. Mike explains why being prepared for the final showdown is vital to securing the top prize in tournaments, underscoring the significance of understanding heads-up dynamics.

This poker strategy podcast is packed with valuable tips for tournament players at all levels, offering practical advice on how to refine your strategy, exploit your opponents, and make smarter decisions to maximize your success. Tune in to learn how to level up your game and navigate the complexities of tournament poker with confidence.

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-coaching

Written Version of This Episode

Watch the full final table at https://www.pokergo.com/

00:00 Introduction and Overview

01:36 Evaluating Ace-Jack in the Big Blind

03:33 Analyzing Check Raise Decisions

04:56 Turn Play Strategy with Bluff Catchers

06:38 River Decisions and Stack Management

11:22 Hand 2: Ace-Ten Hand Analysis

19:11 Adjusting for Different Stack Sizes

25:36 Strategies for Final Table ICM Pressure

30:08 Conclusion and Future Episodes

In this episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Aaron Barone, a tournament poker pro and Upswing Poker coach, analyze two pivotal hands from a $1,500 buy-in six-max final table event at the World Series of Poker (WSOP). With over $400,000 up for grabs, they break down each street of these high-stakes hands, providing valuable insights on how to navigate critical decisions in a final table setting.

The podcast begins with an in-depth analysis of the first hand, where a strong player raises under the gun with King-Queen offsuit. Aaron discusses why three-betting or folding is preferable over calling in this scenario, especially given the Independent Chip Model (ICM) pressure. The hosts debate the merits of different actions, from folding to calling and raising, while considering the pay jumps and stack dynamics at play.

Next, the focus shifts to a hand involving Ace-Jack in the big blind, where the player faces a continuation bet on a tough board. Mike and Aaron explore whether check-raising or flatting is the optimal move, considering both the ICM dynamics and the overall strength of the hand in the context of the final table. They discuss the merits of disguise and balancing ranges, especially in situations where opponent behavior is unpredictable.

As the episode continues, the hosts dive into advanced concepts such as leading with bluff catchers, stack management, and adjusting for different board textures. This poker strategy podcast offers a detailed breakdown of how to handle turn and river play, including when to slow play and when to induce bluffs, all while considering the high-pressure environment of a final table.

The episode wraps up with a second hand analysis, featuring an Ace-Ten hand and a series of tough decisions regarding stack sizes and final table ICM pressure. Aaron provides insights into how to navigate these complex scenarios, offering listeners practical advice on adjusting their strategies for various tournament situations.

Tune in to this poker strategy podcast to learn how to make the right moves under pressure and refine your approach to critical final table decisions. Whether you're a seasoned tournament pro or an aspiring grinder, this episode is packed with valuable lessons to help you elevate your game.