Episodes

  • 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:

    Learn why some hands drop off sharply as villain’s range narrows

    Discover the types of hands that thrive in high-pressure spots

    Understand when top pair is vulnerable—and how to respond

    See why draws and backdoor equity give you profitable bluffing opportunities

    Use equity retention to guide bet sizing, barreling, and board coverage

    **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

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  • 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:

    What simplified poker strategies really are (and what they’re not)

    How EV loss in solvers is often misunderstood

    Why simplified strategies may shift complexity to later streets

    The #1 mistake players make when comparing GTO models

    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

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  • 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

  • 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:

    Solver weaknesses like finite sizings, rigid stack depths, and limited trees

    How unorthodox sizing, lines, and timing force exploitable mistakes

    Why out-of-band data like tells and timing are still king

    How to think laterally about GTO and poker strategy

    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

  • 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

  • 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:
    ✔️ Why results-oriented thinking leads to poor long-term play
    ✔️ How to separate strategic errors from mindset leaks
    ✔️ The key questions to ask yourself after every big decision
    ✔️ How to make better, more objective hand reviews

    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

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    Join us on Discord today: https://redchippoker.com/discord

  • 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:
    ✔ When small strategic choices don’t matter as much as you think.
    ✔ Why focusing on high-frequency mistakes will improve your game faster.
    ✔ How to identify clear-cut EV errors and stop making them.

    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**

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  • 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:

    What a strong button winrate looks like and how to identify leaks in your game

    Optimal raise first in (RFI) frequencies and when to expand your opening range

    Defending against 3-bets—when to call, fold, or 4-bet for maximum profitability

    Postflop adjustments in single-raised and 3-bet pots, including c-betting, barreling, and exploitative play

    Common mistakes players make on the button and how to correct them

    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

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  • 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

  • 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

  • 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 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

    GTO Poker Gems (Book Site): https://redchippoker.com/gto-gems-book Poker Combos And Blockers 101: https://www.splitsuit.com/poker-combos-blockers How To 3-Bet With Blockers: https://www.splitsuit.com/how-to-3-bet-with-blockers The Advanced Poker Workbook: https://www.splitsuit.com/advanced-poker-workbook

    Join us on Discord: https://redchippoker.com/discord

  • 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

    Playing Preflop When Fish Never Fold: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UwXZcLHs1Y8 The Best Preflop Plays, Lines And Strategy: https://www.splitsuit.com/best-preflop-plays-lines-and-strategy Floating (PRO/CORE Subscribers): https://redchippoker.com/courses/postflop-ii/lessons/calling-postflop/topic/floating/ The Advanced Poker Workbook: https://www.splitsuit.com/advanced-poker-workbook

    Join us on Discord: https://redchippoker.com/discord

  • 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

    GTO Poker Gems (Book Homepage): https://redchippoker.com/gto-gems-book Should I Play GTO Poker?: https://www.splitsuit.com/should-i-play-gto-poker GTO Ranges App: https://redchippoker.com/gto-ranges-app The Advanced Poker Workbook: https://www.splitsuit.com/advanced-poker-workbook

    Join us on Discord: https://redchippoker.com/discord

  • 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

    The Advanced Poker Workbook: https://www.splitsuit.com/advanced-poker-workbook Poker Tools And Software: https://redchippoker.com/poker-software/ Poker Software And HUDs: https://www.splitsuit.com/poker-software-huds Online Poker: https://www.splitsuit.com/category/poker-articles/online-poker

    Join us on Discord: https://redchippoker.com/discord

  • 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

    Red Chip GTO Ranges App: https://redchippoker.com/gto-ranges-app Big Blinds Leaks: https://redchippoker.com/big-blind-leaks-podcast/ Playing From The Blinds (PRO Content): https://redchippoker.com/pro-group-coaching-006/ The Advanced Poker Workbook: https://www.splitsuit.com/advanced-poker-workbook

    Join us on Discord: https://redchippoker.com/discord

  • 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

    Playing From The Blinds (PRO Content): https://redchippoker.com/pro-group-coaching-006/ Playing From The Blinds (Podcast): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQlo2vtZX6Q Playing The Blinds Against Many Limpers: https://www.splitsuit.com/playing-the-blinds-against-many-limpers The Advanced Poker Workbook: https://www.splitsuit.com/advanced-poker-workbook

    Join us on Discord: https://redchippoker.com/discord

  • 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

    The Advanced Poker Workbook: https://www.splitsuit.com/advanced-poker-workbook Coach w34z3l’s Deathstar HUD: https://www.pokerdeathstar.xyz/ Setting Up Your Poker HUD Stats: https://www.splitsuit.com/setting-up-poker-hud-stats Five Ways To Improve Your Poker HUD: https://www.splitsuit.com/5-ways-to-improve-your-poker-hud

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    https://redchippoker.com/discord

  • 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

    The Advanced Poker Workbook: https://www.splitsuit.com/advanced-poker-workbook Can Online Poker Make A Comeback In The US?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aqZ6-mmcNDE SplitSuit’s Online Poker: https://www.splitsuit.com/category/poker-articles/online-poker

    JOIN US ON DISCORD: https://www.redchippoker.com/discord

  • 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

    Locals II: Contract (Blog): https://redchippoker.com/locals-contract-vegas-poker-blog/ S6E6 Podcast: Room Selection: https://redchippoker.com/room-selection-podcast/ Online Poker Cheating Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JEtzT2OtiiQ The Truth: Poker Is Gambling: https://www.splitsuit.com/poker-is-gambling

    JOIN US ON DISCORD

    https://www.redchippoker.com/discord