Explore every episode of the podcast The Official Red Chip Poker Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| When Playing With A Short Deck Is A Positive · S8E20 | 29 Sep 2026 | 00:25:23 | |
Short deck #poker is a hold'em variant in which the 2s through 5s are stripped from the deck. The variant has been popular in live high-stakes games for years, but is now appearing commonly at lower stakes, both online and live.
One reason short deck is popular is that many hold'em players make understandable but costly mistakes. Thus the studied player has the opportunity to generate bigger win-rates than in regular hold'em. Give yourself an edge on the field by listening to this final episode of season 8 of the podcast.
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RELATED LINKS
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Playing And Defending Against The UTG Straddle · S8E19 | 15 Sep 2026 | 00:27:05 | |
Straddles used to be restricted to a fun element of live play, but an increasing number of online #poker sites have now added them to their tables. This "third blind" has a profound effect on preflop strategy, both on the straddle itself and from the other positions at the table.
In this podcast episode, we look at a common online 6-max format with a 2bb UTG straddle and 0.1bb ante. The straddle is intrinsically unprofitable, but the information presented here will allow you to minimize your losses from all three blinds, while maximizing your advantage elsewhere.
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RELATED LINKS · The Low-Stakes Poker Playbook: https://redchippoker.com/low-stakes-poker-playbook/ · GTO Preflop Ranges In Straddle Pots: https://youtu.be/ulXns1P5MeA?si=E50aXHFtTggyrHJH · Should I Straddle In Poker: https://redchippoker.com/should-i-straddle-in-poker/ · Why You Lose Money In Straddle Pots: https://youtu.be/WfjiK4FF_RI?si=i9eze1M0oUtjbqPM
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| A Novel Poker Play: Shoving With A Capped Range · S8E18 | 01 Sep 2026 | 00:19:37 | |
When you see big bets over multiple streets from an opponent, what do you conclude? Most studied #poker players would assume they are facing a polarized range, and respond accordingly. But against a strong player, that need not be the case.
In this episode of the podcast, coach w34z3l explains the concept of capped shoving; that is, making large bets to get all in with a capped range. By understanding this counterintuitive play, you will be able to profitably add it to your game, while defending against it when used by tough opponents.
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RELATED LINKS
· The Low-Stakes Poker Playbook: https://redchippoker.com/low-stakes-poker-playbook/ · What Are Capped Ranges? https://www.splitsuit.com/capped-ranges-in-poker · Ranging Rationale: https://youtu.be/FPy6KWkRgJY?si=T8RL0J6rTqfqkrGv · Range Arrangement: https://youtu.be/KMCQRNJroPY?si=BW9etsHzgMje7-zq
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Poker Study: The Formations That Matter Most · S8E17 | 18 Aug 2026 | 00:25:37 | |
Most #poker players acknowledge that the more you study the better your results become. However, other life commitments mean that, in practice, we have a limited amount of time to devote to studying poker. This suggests it is critical to focus on the topics that really matter. In this podcast episode, coach w34z3l summarizes an analytical study that determines the poker scenarios that have the biggest impact on your win-rate. This provides a priority list of poker formations to explore. One key takeaway: most players should devote time to their play out of the big blind.
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RELATED LINKS · The Low-Stakes Poker Playbook: https://redchippoker.com/low-stakes-poker-playbook/ · Weekly Poker Study Guide: https://www.splitsuit.com/ultimate-weekly-poker-study-guide · Top 15 Key Poker Skills: https://redchippoker.com/top-15-poker-skills/ · Effective Poker Study: https://youtu.be/maaDxqtQgT4?si=zUCAsQdpvms4qaOZ
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Befuddling Your Opponents With Micro Bets · S8E16 | 04 Aug 2026 | 00:25:02 | |
Do you tend to use a limited number of bet sizes in your strategy? Such simplified approaches have value, but many #poker players are missing out on profitable spots by restricting their sizing. This applies both to large and small bets.
This episode of the podcast explores the small end of the spectrum, specifically looking at micro bets as small as 10% of pot. In addition to being theoretically motivated, these tiny bets have the added benefit of forcing your opponents into unknown territory where they are liable to make mistakes.
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**LINKS** - The Low-Stakes Poker Playbook: https://redchippoker.com/low-stakes-poker-playbook/ - 6 Exploitative Strategies You Need To Use: https://youtu.be/GJxoNiuWuRU?si=f4rOw5mX91XeQBE1 - How Bet Sizes Change The Final Pot Size: https://www.splitsuit.com/poker-bet-sizes-final-pot-size - Bet-Sizing Techniques: https://redchippoker.com/bet-sizing-techniques-for-poker-players/ **JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| The Fundamentals Of Heads-Up Hold'em · S8E15 | 21 Jul 2026 | 00:30:03 | |
Many #poker players regard heads-up play as the purest form of the game. You are locked in a duel of wits with a single opponent, constantly trying to outmaneuver them and countering their tactical adjustments. The one-on-one nature also means your skill edge is magnified leading to high win-rates.
This podcast episode gives a comprehensive overview of all the skills required to succeed in heads-up play. In addition to strategic and tactical considerations, coach w34z3l also explores soft skills, including attracting weaker players to your table.
TIMESTAMPS
RELATED LINKS
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Poker As A Business: Managing Time And Costs · S8E14 | 07 Jul 2026 | 00:29:23 | |
If you play #poker to make money, you have more to manage than your bankroll. To get better at the game, you need to study. That takes time and money. Serious students of the game require poker software and training material.
The purpose of this podcast episode is to outline how you manage the time and costs that are associated with treating poker like a business. How do you assess which software you really need? How do you determine the value of specific books and training courses? This episode will help you make thrifty decisions.
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RELATED LINKS
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Grinding Poker In A Rec-Friendly Environment · S8E13 | 23 Jun 2026 | 00:28:04 | |
Online #poker is a very different beast to twenty years ago. Essentially all poker sites have taken the decision to clip the wings of the professional grinder, ostensibly to encourage the survival of recreational players. Table caps, minimal rake back, and HUD restrictions require the pros to make concessions.
In this episode of the podcast, coach w34z3l discusses how the online grinder can navigate this hostile environment. There are no ideal poker sites anymore, but you can still develop a strategy to play professionally or to generate a significant side income.
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**LINKS**
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord
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| Realistic Expectations For Your Poker Decisions · S8E12 | 09 Jun 2026 | 00:22:06 | |
Any #poker session you play can be thought of as a series of decisions. The "correct" decision in any spot, such as whether to bet and how much, in principle has an objectively-correct answer. This has some players erroneously seeking perfection.
In the real world, the information you use to make each decision contains uncertainty. You simply do not know the precise range of your opponent, and even if you did, a precise EV calculation in real time is not a feasible goal. Make the best decision you can with the available information, but accept that your goal is to be good, not perfect.
TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Introduction: Certain Uncertainty in Poker
RELATED LINKS
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Poker Tips From LLMs: How Bad Are They? · S8E11 | 26 May 2026 | 00:26:16 | |
An increasing number of people rely on ChatGPT summaries to explain complex topics. Is this a good idea if you're looking for tactical and strategic information about #poker? This fun episode of the podcast explores the question.
As you may have found in other disciplines, one of the problems with relying on any LLM is that the accuracy of the information they return can be extremely unpredictable. ChatGPT provides decent summaries of some areas of poker, and laughably bad ones in others.
TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Introduction: Poker Turing Test with AI
RELATED LINKS
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Live Poker Tells: Reading Your Opponents · S8E10 | 12 May 2026 | 00:26:16 | |
Hollywood promotes the notion that top players "read" their opponents from their body language, or their unique method of eating Oreo cookies. But do such live tells have any place in today's mathematical game of #poker?
In this episode, coach w34z3l gives an overview of how your opponents may leak information that you can use to beat them. Equally important, we discuss how you can prevent others from reading your own body language, so that you can protect yourself from damaging information leaks.
TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Introduction: What Are Live Tells?
RELATED LINKS
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Surviving The Variance Of Live Poker · S8E9 | 28 Apr 2026 | 00:22:05 | |
The element of luck in #poker means that weak players can having winning sessions and strong ones can go on extended downswings. One can argue that this variance is necessary for the game to survive at all, since without it donators would quickly drop the game.
Appreciating how extreme poker variance can be is important for two reasons. First, understanding that downswings are a feature of the game helps us survive psychologically. Second, quantifying how big downswings can be is essential for exercising proper bankroll management.
TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Introduction: Live Poker Variance & Win Rates
RELATED LINKS · **NEW** The Low-Stakes Poker Playbook: https://redchippoker.com/low-stakes-poker-playbook/ · Poker Bankroll Management: https://www.splitsuit.com/how-much-poker-money-do-you-need-to-play · Live Poker Analysis: https://youtu.be/06gOgEchrqM?si=eDSpZ5jHAJtzLiBy · Bankroll Management & Taking Shots: https://youtu.be/1nDFMAouLFM?si=zam69b6KhXR23c8p
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Does The Block Bet Have A Place In Modern Poker? · S8E8 | 14 Apr 2026 | 00:19:53 | |
The block bet is a play from the pre-solver era of #poker which many players view with suspicion. Making a small bet in the hope of avoiding a much larger one from an opponent certainly lacks a firm theoretical basis. Like many classic plays, however, modern theory reveals that there is a place for the block bet in today's game. While the rationale is rather different, the old block bet has experienced a renaissance as part of the "micro-bet metagame."
TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Introduction: What is a Block Bet?
RELATED LINKS · **NEW** The Low-Stakes Poker Playbook: https://redchippoker.com/low-stakes-poker-playbook/ · Consistent Thinking When Betting: https://www.splitsuit.com/consistent-thinking-when-betting · The Exploitative Edge (Book): https://redchippoker.com/the-exploitative-edge · The Most Simple Bet Sizing Framework: https://youtu.be/FqNT_2c3O8g?si=9y2q2WPrcVTzCJZX **JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Ranging Analysis: When It Is And Is Not Useful · S8E7 | 31 Mar 2026 | 00:21:47 | |
Much of modern #poker strategy revolves around the battle between poker ranges; our own and that of our opponent. But is ranging always the best approach to reaching a decision, particularly since our opponent's range is at best a guess.
In this podcast episode, coach w34z3l looks at strategies that largely ignore traditional ranging. These data-driven approaches are based on how our opponents play in reality, rather than some theoretical abstraction. Ranging still has its place, but consistent poker winners need these additional weapons.
TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Introduction: Ranging Rationale
**RELATED LINKS** - Poker Ranges & Range Reading: https://www.splitsuit.com/poker-ranges-reading - The Exploitative Edge (Book): https://redchippoker.com/the-exploitative-edge - Poker Intuition Explained: https://redchippoker.com/poker-intuition-explained/ - The Myth Of GTO: https://youtu.be/vn6t9leOArw?si=z5DdAj9Ke9D_DTVx **JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Resilience and Optimization: Winning Poker's Mental Game · S8E6 | 17 Mar 2026 | 00:24:45 | |
Do you equate the mental game of #poker with tilt avoidance? Then this episode of the Directed study moves more concepts into unconscious competence, making decisions TIMESTAMPS RELATED LINKS
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** | |||
| Maximizing Your Winrate Grinding Poker · S8E5 | 03 Mar 2026 | 00:25:57 | |
Maximizing your #poker hourly rate extends well beyond simply playing well. If playing online, for example, how many simultaneous tables gives you your best results? What is your optimal session length? How do you even survive the poker grind?
While the answers to many of these questions depend on the individual player, there are many commonalities that can greatly boost the hourly rate of most players. Creating a grinding schedule, taking shots, balancing study and playing time, and bankroll management are among the topics discussed in this episode.
TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Introduction: The Poker Grind
RELATED LINKS
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Mixing And Randomization In Modern Poker · S8E4 | 17 Feb 2026 | 00:27:48 | |
In the previous episode of the podcast, we discussed how GTO #poker requires mixing. Typical solutions returned by solvers include using multiple bet sizes in a given spot, with each size being used at a specific frequency.
While this is all very well in theory, how does one handle mixing in practice? If GTO tells you to bet pot 30% of the time, and half-pot 70% of the time, what do you actually do when the action is on you? The answer is we must randomize. How to randomize to maximize win-rate is the topic of this episode, meant for intermediate to advanced players.
TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Introduction: What is Randomization in Poker?
**RELATED LINKS** - GTO+ Solver Bundle: https://redchippoker.com/gto-solver-bundle/ - The Exploitative Edge (Book): https://redchippoker.com/the-exploitative-edge - Myths And Misunderstandings Of GTO Poker: https://youtu.be/vn6t9leOArw?si=KGtFUs3I0bq09qT8 - Why A Mixed Strategy Matters in GTO Poker: https://youtu.be/0hfW2dlhuDs?si=lzYVrhqdHiVIvcWx
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| GTO Poker: Busting Some Myths · S8E3 | 03 Feb 2026 | 00:23:59 | |
Have you heard high-stakes #poker players claiming that they play a GTO strategy? That is a myth that is quickly disproved; the general GTO solution to poker is currently unknown. Even if such a solution was available, memorizing solver output and its mixing frequencies would be impossible. It is also the case, however, that GTO solvers have radically improved our understanding of the fundamentals of poker. This podcast episode breaks down the practical takeaways from GTO research, with a particular emphasis on GTO traps to avoid.
TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Introduction: The GTO Myth **RELATED LINKS** - Red Chip Poker GTO Ranges App: https://redchippoker.com/gto-ranges-app - The Exploitative Edge (Book): https://redchippoker.com/the-exploitative-edge - How To Crush GTO Poker: https://youtu.be/j8cFt86B8To?si=KCYCurk0NK-Ua60v - Common Questions About GTO Poker: https://youtu.be/jKzHZnVMjRk?si=53huagktpyXAOOSQ
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| How EV Modeling Refines Your Poker Decisions · S8E2 | 20 Jan 2026 | 00:26:30 | |
Playing #poker well can be viewed as making the highest-EV decision at every opportunity. In some situations, such as facing an all-in, calculating EV is relatively trivial. But what about more complex situations, particularly on early streets, where the EV formula is hard to apply? Enter EV modeling; an approach that estimates the EV of different actions by modeling multiple branches of the game tree. In this episode of the Red Chip Poker podcast, coach w34z3l presents several practical EV modeling methods so you can optimize your poker decisions.
TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Introduction to EV Modeling 0:23 What is EV Modeling? 3:15 Tools for EV Modeling 3:33 CardRunners EV (CREV) 6:02 Limitations of CREV 8:29 Excel and Spreadsheets 10:52 Solvers and EV Modeling 13:01 Why Solvers Don't Work for Exploitative EV 13:38 Node-Locking Misconception 17:07 The Ideal EV Modeling Tool 20:10 Practical EV Modeling Examples 24:56 Managing Model Complexity 25:30 Conclusion and Next Steps
**RELATED LINKS** - Join Red Chip PRO Now: https://redchippoker.com/pro-membership - The Exploitative Edge (Book): https://redchippoker.com/the-exploitative-edge - Poker Mastery 101 (Course): https://youtu.be/B8qidwy2UeU?si=A7G1_d1SYo2Ewrew - Poker Strategy Math Every Pro Knows: https://youtu.be/QqXzTxxMzjU?si=yA1-iTJ1ISz42gDT
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| The Dangers Of Using Minimum Defense Frequency · S8E1 | 06 Jan 2026 | 00:23:53 | |
In the season premiere of season 8, w34z3l breaks down the concept of minimum defense frequency, with an emphasis on how MDF can lead to inappropriate defense frequencies in certain spots. GTO solutions frequently involve defense frequencies that violate MDF, suggesting such lines allow us to be auto-exploited. And yet GTO solutions are generally understood as being unexploitable. This episode reconciles this apparent contradiction, and explains how you can construct practical defense frequencies in common situations.
**RELATED LINKS** · Upgrade To PRO Now: https://redchippoker.com/pro-membership · The Exploitative Edge (Book): https://redchippoker.com/the-exploitative-edge - Exploitative Poker Strategies Beyond GTO: https://youtu.be/_Jx3YAf3y1E?si=WRvj4dotH5SPeogi - Defending Yourself Correctly In Poker: https://redchippoker.com/correct-poker-defense/
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord
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| 6 Exploitative Strategies You Need To Use (FREE Audiobook Chapter) | 23 Sep 2025 | 00:10:59 | |
Unlock the key pillars of exploitative poker strategy in this exclusive audiobook preview from The Exploitative Edge. In Chapter 4, you'll learn how to maximize profits against imperfect opponents by adjusting your play beyond rigid GTO theory. From knowing when to build monster pots to avoiding low-confidence traps, this episode lays out six powerful strategies that will elevate your game and punish weaker opposition at every level. This audiobook chapter was narrated by co-author James "SplitSuit" Sweeney Ready to get your copy of The Exploitative Edge?
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| Formation Is Like Position On Steroids · S7E18 | 02 Sep 2025 | 00:23:03 | |
Is your understanding of position in poker costing you EV? In this season 7 finale of the Red Chip Poker Podcast, you'll learn why thinking in terms of position alone is no longer enough—and how the concept of formational awareness can bring serious clarity to your strategy. Coach W34z3l takes you deep into the subtle yet critical differences between various formations—like Button vs. Big Blind or Cutoff vs. Hijack—and how each one impacts everything from c-bet frequency to overbetting strategies to exploitative bluff-catching. You'll see how GTO solvers treat the same flop very differently based on the exact formation, and how many players make costly mistakes by ignoring these nuances. Whether you're playing single-raised pots or 3-bet pots, in position or out, this episode will help you move beyond generic poker strategy and toward more precise, formation-aware decision making. If you're serious about improving your game, this discussion offers a powerful new lens for thinking about positional dynamics. 🧠 Want to go deeper into advanced concepts like this? Pick up our new book The Exploitative Edge—available via:
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| Your Check-Raising Strategy Is Wrong · S7E17 | 23 Aug 2025 | 00:20:03 | |
In this episode of the Red Chip Poker Podcast, Coach W34z3l dives into one of the trickiest spots in no-limit hold'em: facing a double barrel out of position and deciding whether to check-raise the turn. If you've ever second-guessed a check-raise with a gutshot, flush draw, or even second pair, this deep strategy breakdown is for you. Using a K98 flop with a blank turn as the foundation, you'll explore how solvers approach turn check-raising frequencies, which hands qualify as profitable semi-bluffs, and where most players go wrong—particularly by bluffing too much with zero-equity hands. You'll also gain clarity on when to fold draws, when to turn equity into aggression, and why certain board textures severely cap your value range. This is an essential listen if you're serious about improving your poker strategy, particularly in cash games and single-raised pots. Whether you're already working with solvers or just want to make fewer costly mistakes out of position, the insights in this episode will help you sharpen your turn decisions and build a stronger overall game plan. | |||
| Can You Outsmart Online Poker BOTS? · S7E16 | 05 Aug 2025 | 00:23:47 | |
Online #poker has changed—and not always for the better. While you're battling regs and fish, there's a whole new opponent sitting quietly at the tables: poker bots. In this eye-opening episode of the Red Chip Poker Podcast, Coach W34z3l breaks down the current state of bots in online poker and gives you the tools to protect your winrate—and maybe even boost it—by identifying and exploiting these digital opponents. From profile bots to pool exploit bots, bot rings to RTA bots, and even house bots operated by the poker sites themselves, we explore what these bots are, how they work, and how you can beat them. You'll learn: · How to detect suspicious non-human play · What to do if you uncover a bot ring · When it's better to avoid, report, or exploit bots · How strategy "buckets" make bots vulnerable · Real-world examples of exploits that print money—fast If you've ever wondered whether your opponent is too consistent, too persistent, or too good to be human… this episode is for you. | |||
| What Modern Poker Players Miss That Old Pros Knew · S7E15 | 22 Jul 2025 | 00:24:23 | |
Were old school poker players better than today's GTO-inspired up-and-comers? In this episode of the Red Chip Poker Podcast, Coach w34z3l explores the dramatic evolution of poker strategy—from the gritty, intuition-fueled grind of old school poker to today's GTO-obsessed solver era. Whether you started playing poker in the last year or two decades ago, this conversation sheds light on what skills are truly essential to succeed in today's games. You'll examine how the modern training environment has shifted player development. HUDs, note-taking, combo counting, and live opponent profiling were once standard tools in every serious player's kit. Now, many new players bypass these fundamentals, leaning heavily on solver output and pre-solved ranges—sometimes at the cost of building real-world intuition and adaptability. If you've ever wondered whether relying on solvers is enough… or if old-school strategy still has a place in today's games, this episode is for you. You'll leave with a clear picture of the five key abilities every well-rounded poker player needs—and why combining the best of both eras may be your edge. **LINKS** · GTO Gems 2: https://redchippoker.com/gto-gems-2-book · CORE Poker Course: https://redchippoker.com/launch-core **JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join us on Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| You're Misusing Polarization In Poker (Here's The Fix) · S7E14 | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:19:43 | |
If you've ever heard someone say "I'm raising a polarized range on the flop" and thought wait, that doesn't quite make sense — you're not alone. In this episode of the Red Chip Poker Podcast, Coach W34z3l introduces a new term you'll want to add to your poker vocabulary: pseudo polarization. While traditional polarized ranges make perfect sense on the river—where you're typically betting either your strongest value hands or your weakest bluffs—the same logic falls apart when you try to apply it to early street play. That's where pseudo polarization comes in. It describes the kind of range composition you see in flop and turn solver outputs: some strong draws, some mid-strength hands, and a mix of weak bluffs that don't quite fit the classic definition of polarization. This is a deeper, theory-focused episode that will challenge the way you think about bluff combos, equity distribution, and the limits of GTO shortcut terms like "polarized." You'll walk away with a clearer understanding of:
Whether you're studying solver output or just trying to speak more precisely about your strategy, this episode will help you move beyond vague buzzwords and into real conceptual clarity. **LINKS** · GTO Gems 2: https://redchippoker.com/gto-gems-2-book · CORE Poker Course: https://redchippoker.com/launch-core **JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join us on Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| The #1 Poker Math Mistake (And The Easy Fix Every Player Needs) · S7E13 | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:23:30 | |
If you've ever struggled with poker math mid-hand—fumbling with ratios, converting to percentages, and second-guessing your decisions—this episode is going to feel like a breath of fresh air. In "Bad Poker Math", Coach Weasel breaks down one of the most common sources of confusion at the tables: relying on outdated ratio-based math. Whether it's calculating pot odds, implied odds, or bluff-to-value frequencies, traditional approaches often overcomplicate simple decisions and slow you down when it matters most. This episode lays out a smoother path: think in percentages, eliminate conversions, and streamline your thought process with easy-to-remember math shortcuts. You'll learn not only how to make sharper calls and folds faster, but also why simplifying doesn't mean dumbing down—it means cutting through tradition to get to the core of better poker decisions. **LINKS** · Preflop & Math Poker Workbook: https://www.splitsuit.com/poker-preflop-math-workbook · CORE Poker Course: https://redchippoker.com/launch-core · Why Poker Math Is STILL Important: https://www.splitsuit.com/why-poker-math-approach-is-best **JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join us on Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Check-Raise Like A Pro: Solver Insights For Human Players · S7E12 | 10 Jun 2025 | 00:21:55 | |
If you've ever struggled to know when to check-raise the flop—or felt unsure whether your current strategy is leaking EV—this episode is for you. We break down one of the most common and instructive spots in poker: big blind vs. button on a dry flop. Using solver-informed analysis, you'll walk away with a clear understanding of which types of hands check-raise profitably, where these hands fall on the equity spectrum, and how the modern approach differs from traditional polarized thinking. This isn't just a theory dump—it's a guided look at how to interpret solver output in a practical, actionable way. You'll explore how check-raises are distributed across strong value hands, semi-bluffs like gutshots and open-enders, and even some surprisingly middling pairs. Along the way, you'll learn why the classic idea of a polarized range doesn't fully apply and how mixing strategies help achieve balance in this spot. Whether you play live or online poker, this strategic cross-section will sharpen your intuition and help you develop a more nuanced postflop approach. **LINKS** · GTO Gems 2 (Book): https://redchippoker.com/gto-gems-2-book · Understanding Equity Distribution: https://www.splitsuit.com/gto-poker-equity-distribution · Poker Strategy vs. Tactics: https://youtu.be/2_Q3ZbwfKB4 **JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join us on Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| What Is Equity Retention? (And Why It Wins Postflop) · S7E11 | 27 May 2025 | 00:21:17 | |
Can we discuss "equity retention" and why it's not an optional concept to learn for every poker player? In this episode of the Red Chip Poker Podcast, we break down one of the most overlooked yet essential postflop concepts: equity retention. You'll learn what it is, how it impacts your decisions postflop, and how to use it to build stronger bluffing lines and value strategies. Whether you're new to the term or just need a refresher, this is the deep dive you've been waiting for. Perfect for cash game players and tournament grinders alike. 💡 Takeaways from this episode:
**LINKS** · CORE Poker Membership: https://redchippoker.com/launch-core · Understanding Equity Distribution: https://www.splitsuit.com/gto-poker-equity-distribution · Poker Strategy vs. Tactics: https://youtu.be/2_Q3ZbwfKB4 **JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join us on Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| This "Simple" Poker Strategy Is Making You a Fish · S7E10 | 13 May 2025 | 00:23:30 | |
Poker is already a complex game—but many players try to make it easier by using simplified poker strategies. Whether it's range c-betting 1/3 pot, 3-bet-only from the small blind, or avoiding donk bets entirely, the goal is always the same: reduce decisions & reduce errors. But is simplifying your strategy actually helping your win rate? Or is it quietly costing you chips? In this episode of the Red Chip Poker Podcast, we explore the real trade-offs behind simplified poker strategies, their relationship to GTO solver output, and the critical distinction between playing GTO and playing exploitatively. This is a must-listen for serious players diving into solvers and anyone questioning whether "just keeping it simple" is the right approach. 🔍 You'll learn:
When simplification actually makes sense—especially from an exploitative lens. **LINKS** · GTO Gems 2 Poker Book: https://redchippoker.com/gto-gems-2-book · Crushing GTO Poker: https://youtu.be/j8cFt86B8To · EV Poker Formula: https://www.splitsuit.com/simple-poker-expected-value-formula **JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join us on Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Poker Strategy vs. Tactics EXPLAINED · S7E9 | 29 Apr 2025 | 00:22:12 | |
In this episode, you'll sharpen your understanding of poker strategy and tactical execution — two sides of the same coin that every winning player needs to master. Whether you've ever wondered "am I making the best decision here?" or "do I even know the EV of this play?" — this discussion gives you the tools to confidently find the answer. Coach w34z3l breaks down the critical difference between strategy and tactics, using real-world examples from chess, warfare, and poker itself. You'll discover why knowing your EV on the river is often possible (and expected), but why trying to perfectly map it out preflop is usually a losing battle. This episode teaches you how strong strategic play on early streets naturally leads to clearer, simpler tactical opportunities on later streets — allowing you to pick better spots, make cleaner bets, and avoid costly mistakes. If you're serious about improving your poker thought process, you'll learn why building principled, high-level strategic habits matters just as much as finding those sharp tactical lines. Plus, get introduced to tools like EV modeling, simplified tree building, and how solvers fit (or don't fit) into the real-world game. **LINKS** · Poker Workbooks (& More): https://redchippoker.com/poker-books/ · Why Strategy & Tactics Are NOT The Same: https://redchippoker.com/poker-strategy-and-tactics-are-not-the-same/ · EV Poker Formula: https://www.splitsuit.com/simple-poker-expected-value-formula **JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join us on Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Outsmarting The Solver: Real Strategies vs. GTO Play · S7E8 | 15 Apr 2025 | 00:25:12 | |
GTO poker isn't unbeatable — in fact, it's full of cracks. In this episode of the Red Chip Poker Podcast, we reveal exactly how to generate an edge against solver output, challenge GTO dogma, and outmaneuver "optimal" opponents. Whether you're battling bots or facing players trying to perfectly mimic solvers, this deep dive breaks down why GTO isn't the end-all strategy — and how to beat it. We explore:
This episode also previews our brand-new PRO course "Myths of Poker" — uncovering common misconceptions even winning players still believe. **LINKS** · GTO Poker Gems 2: https://redchippoker.com/gto-gems-2-book · Join PRO Today: https://redchippoker.com/pro-membership · GTO vs Equity Distribution: https://www.splitsuit.com/gto-poker-equity-distribution **JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join us on Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Why Everyone Thinks Poker Is Dead (But They're Wrong) · S7E7 | 01 Apr 2025 | 00:24:42 | |
You've heard the claims—poker is dead. The rise of GTO solvers, real-time assistance (RTA), cheating scandals, and unbeatable rake structures have all fueled the conversation. But how much of it is hype, and how much is reality? In this episode of the Red Chip Poker Podcast, we take a serious, fact-driven look at whether poker is truly in decline—or if it's simply evolving. You'll explore the current landscape of online and live poker, including the influence of poker AI, the misconception that the game has been fully solved, and how technology has shaped both the risks and opportunities available to today's players. If you've ever wondered whether it's still possible to profit at the tables, this episode breaks down what you actually need to know—and how to stay one step ahead. From discussing the difference between strong and weak GTO solutions to dissecting the challenges of RTA-based cheating, this video gives you the tools to make informed decisions about your own poker journey. We also touch on which formats might be safer or more lucrative in the coming years, and what trends could shape the next chapter of the game. Whether you're a recreational player or someone taking poker seriously, this episode aims to replace fear with clarity. The game isn't dead—but it is different. And understanding those differences could be the key to finding long-term success. **LINKS** · GTO Poker Gems 2 (The book): https://redchippoker.com/gto-gems-2-book · What About Live Poker?: https://www.splitsuit.com/live-poker-cash-game-truths · More RCP Poker Books: https://redchippoker.com/poker-books/ **JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join us on Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| How To Stop Second-Guessing Yourself At The Poker Table · S7E6 | 18 Mar 2025 | 00:27:01 | |
Have you ever called a big bet, lost the hand, and immediately thought, I knew I should've folded!? Or maybe you made a hero call, won, and convinced yourself it was pure genius? This poker mental trap—what we call the hindsight reflex—is one of the biggest leaks in poker. It skews your perception, making you judge decisions based on results rather than sound strategy. In this episode of the Red Chip Poker Podcast, we break down why this happens, how it warps your thought process, and most importantly, how to fix it. Coach w34z3l dives deep into a hand where Hero faces a tough 5-bet all-in decision with Ace-King and explores how players misinterpret the quality of their play based on what their opponent turns over. Are you making logical, EV-positive decisions, or are you falling into results-oriented thinking? What you'll learn in this episode: If you want to level up your poker strategy and stop second-guessing yourself based on the last hand you played, this episode is a must-study. **LINKS** · PRO Membership: https://redchippoker.com/pro-membership · Poker Intuition Explained: https://redchippoker.com/poker-intuition-explained/ · Learning Poker In 2025: https://www.splitsuit.com/learning-poker-6-things-to-learn-first **JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join us on Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Why Some Poker Decisions Don't Matter (And The Ones That Do) · S7E5 | 04 Mar 2025 | 00:23:07 | |
Poker isn't always black and white, but too many players treat it that way. In this episode of the Red Chip Poker Podcast, we dive deep into one of the biggest mindset shifts that separates winning players from the rest: understanding which decisions actually impact your win rate and which ones you can stop overanalyzing. You've probably heard debates at the table: Should you always c-bet second pair? Should you always call in a given spot? The truth is, many hands are played with mixed strategies, meaning there's no single correct line—and getting lost in solver outputs won't make you a better player. Instead, the biggest leaks in most players' games come from clear, black-and-white mistakes—things like failing to defend the big blind, missing profitable river value bets, or calling without the right odds. In this episode, Coach Weasel breaks down real poker examples to show you: If you want to stop second-guessing every hand and start playing confident, +EV poker, this episode is for you. **LINKS** · The Advanced Poker Workbook: https://www.splitsuit.com/advanced-poker-workbook · Positional Plays Every Pro Knows: https://redchippoker.com/position-preflop-postflop/ **JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join us on Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord
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| Make More Money From The Button · S7E4 | 18 Feb 2025 | 00:26:35 | |
The button is the most profitable position in poker, yet many players fail to fully capitalize on it. In this episode of the Red Chip Poker Podcast, we take a deep dive into button strategy, covering everything from preflop adjustments to postflop decision making. Understanding how to play effectively from the button can significantly improve your overall winrate. While button leaks can absolutely cripple any chance of success. This episode explores:
Whether you're an online player reviewing your database or a live cash game player looking to refine your approach, this episode provides practical insights to help you play more effectively from the button. **LINKS** · The GTO Ranges App: https://redchippoker.com/gto-ranges-app · The SB Playbook: https://youtu.be/ikvDv_LUm5o · The BB Playbook: https://youtu.be/bIQpgu8rg7s **JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join us on Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Poker: A Game of Skill, or Just Gambling? · S7E3 | 04 Feb 2025 | 00:25:48 | |
Is poker really gambling? 🤔 It's a question that sparks debate among players, casual fans, and even lawmakers. In this episode of the Red Chip Poker Podcast, we break down the real meaning of gambling and whether #poker should be considered a game of chance, skill, or something in between. We start by examining the dictionary definitions of gambling and why they don't always capture the nuances of poker. While poker involves risk and money—like traditional gambling games such as blackjack or roulette—there are key differences that separate it from pure chance-based betting. We explore the role of skill, probability, and sample size in determining whether a poker player is truly gambling or making a calculated investment. You'll also learn about the three key factors that separate gambling from investing, including expectation, repetition, and risk management. Whether you're a professional poker player or just starting out, understanding these concepts can help you play smarter and avoid costly mistakes. Additionally, we discuss the ethics of gambling, the difference between poker and casino games, and even how governments classify poker in tax law. Plus, if you've ever been told that playing poker is "just gambling," this episode gives you the perfect response! **LINKS** · CORE Membership: https://redchippoker.com/launch-core · Another Take On Poker vs. Gambling: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viS9EYf_-Kw **JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join us on Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord
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| Is Expensive Poker Training A SCAM? · S7E2 | 21 Jan 2025 | 00:21:38 | |
In this episode of the Red Chip Poker Podcast, we delve into the world of expensive poker training content. They scrutinize whether high-priced poker courses and boot camps, such as a $3,000 course or a $14,000 boot camp, are genuinely worth their price tags. The discussion covers the psychology behind perceived value, the ethics of marketing, and the motivations behind inflated pricing. They also examine the historical context by reflecting on the infamous "Let There Be Range" ebook, its hefty price tag, and its polarizing reception. This episode aims to provide listeners with practical advice on evaluating poker training content, identifying red flags in sales pitches, and making informed decisions about investment in poker education. We emphasize caution and encourage skepticism toward promises of guaranteed success and revolutionary secrets in the high-stakes poker training industry. **LINKS** · GTO Gems 1 Audiobook: https://gtogems.com/audio1 · Red Chip Poker: https://redchippoker.com/
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join us on Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Boost Your Online Poker Edge · S7E1 | 07 Jan 2025 | 00:27:02 | |
In the season premiere of season 7, w34z3l shares valuable strategies for gaining a competitive edge in online #poker. He emphasizes the importance of tools like HUDs for informational advantage, discusses the role of table selection, and explains how high-volume play impacts hourly rates. We also examine how poker rooms may counteract players' edges with restrictions like HUD limits and hand history access, stressing the need for players to be selective in choosing poker rooms that align with their strategies.
00:00 Welcome To Season 7 00:51 Introduction to Poker Edge 01:12 Key Areas to Gain an Edge 01:24 Importance of HUD and Table Selection 02:19 Volume and Hand Histories 03:54 Use of Scripts and Game Softness 05:10 Poker Rooms Counteracting Your Edge 06:52 Fast Format Games and HUD Limitations 08:26 Hand History and Table Cap Restrictions 10:17 Variance Increases and Player Value Index 12:02 High Rake and Graphics Overkill 14:16 Criteria for Choosing a Poker Room 20:51 Coaching and Training Sites 24:42 Final Thoughts on Maintaining Your Edge
**LINKS** · Upgrade To PRO Now: https://redchippoker.com/pro-membership · Protect Yourself Against Online Cheating: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEtzT2OtiiQ · Understanding Your Winrate: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wb5Yc_scPQs
**JOIN US ON DISCORD** Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Blockers · S6E18 | 02 Apr 2024 | 00:30:10 | |
Blockers are an intermediate concept that tends to be used incorrectly by many players. While they can be important in making close decisions, there are some situations in which using blockers will actually diminish your results. Find out when and how to use blockers by listening to the final podcast episode of Season 6. RELATED LINKS
Join us on Discord: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Position Plays · S6E17 | 26 Mar 2024 | 00:26:27 | |
Are you utilizing position to its maximum benefit? From preflop isolation raises to postflop lines, playing in position confers a significant advantage. If you understand the power of position, but also think you might be missing some spots, give this episode a complete listen. RELATED LINKS
Join us on Discord: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| The Poker Robot · S6E16 | 19 Mar 2024 | 00:26:49 | |
Who would win between the robotic poker grinder and the intuitive player? Which approach should you model in today's games? This episode of the podcast looks at what has traditionally been viewed as two opposing schools of thought, and synthesizes them into a winning strategy. RELATED LINKS
Join us on Discord: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Tech Specs · S6E15 | 12 Mar 2024 | 00:32:09 | |
Are you not the techiest person in the world but still want to play online poker well? This episode of the podcast puts strategy on the sideline to deep dive into your tech setup and protection. RELATED LINKS
Join us on Discord: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Small Blind Leaks · S6E14 | 05 Mar 2024 | 00:24:10 | |
The small blind is the second-biggest losing position you have to contend with at the table. But with better defense, better SB stealing, and a better plan preflop, you can minimize these losses. Coach w34z3l highlights the most common and costly SB leaks in this episode, and explains how to plug them. RELATED LINKS
Join us on Discord: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Big Blind Leaks · S6E13 | 27 Feb 2024 | 00:19:18 | |
The big blind is going to be your biggest losing position. But if you aren't careful, those losses can balloon and create a huge drag on your win-rate. In this episode of the podcast, coach w34z3l presents five key tips on how to fight back and defend the big blind correctly. RELATED LINKS
Join us on Discord: https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| The Modern HUD · S6E12 | 20 Feb 2024 | 00:23:44 | |
Do you play on a poker site that allows for HUDs? The amount of information provided by today's HUDs is staggering, so how do you trim it back to something manageable in real time? If you do use a HUD, the advice in this episode will allow you to determine if your HUD is helping you instead of confusing you with number overload. RELATED LINKS
JOIN US ON DISCORD https://redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| Multi Tabling · S6E11 | 13 Feb 2024 | 00:29:50 | |
Should you be multi-tabling or just sticking to a single table in today's games? The honest answer is that this depends mostly on you and your current skill level. But how do you determine the optimal number of online tables to play? This podcast episode breaks down the considerations and helpful tips for correctly and profitably adding more tables. RELATED LINKS
JOIN US ON DISCORD: https://www.redchippoker.com/discord | |||
| The Grey Areas · S6E10 | 06 Feb 2024 | 00:34:34 | |
This podcast episode may be challenging and controversial. We review several ethical grey areas within the poker world to better understand them from both the player's and the poker room's point of view. Grey areas, by definition, do not yield clear-cut conclusions, but we hope you find this episode provocative and helpful as you sift the ethics of these situations for yourselves. RELATED LINKS
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| Nit Colonies · S6E9 | 30 Jan 2024 | 00:25:30 | |
What is the best way to approach games with not just one or two nits at the table, but a huge density of nits within the player pool at large? A preponderance of very tight players does not make for the most profitable (or fun) game, but overly tight play is an exploitable mistake. In this podcast episode, coach w34z3l discusses counter-strategies to defeat nit colonies and maximize your win-rate in the games they infest. RELATED LINKS
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| MAD · S6E8 | 23 Jan 2024 | 00:22:48 | |
MAD MAD (Mutually Assured Destruction) is a military strategy designed to avoid conflict by ensuring any war completely annihilates the countries involved. In this episode of the podcast, coach w34z3l draws some provocative parallels between the traditional concept of MAD and its application to situations arising in poker. *LINKS*
*JOIN US ON DISCORD* Join our free poker Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord
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