Let's analyze some poker hands! Upswing Lab members submitted hands to be reviewed on the Level-Up podcast and we chose 3 particularly interesting ones to go over. Hand #1 features analysis from the upcoming Lucid GTO Trainer tool. Hands #2 and #3 are straight-up street poker!

The hands are recapped below (with no spoilers) to help you follow along.

Sign up for the Lucid GTO Trainer waitlist at https://upswingpoker.com/lucid-waitlist/

Episode Transcription

 

**Hand #1**

$0.50/$1 on GGPoker. $131 stacks.

Simon raises to $2.50 with T♥ 9♥. The Button 3-bets to $9. Simon calls.

Flop: Q♦ 8♦ 6♣ - Simon checks. Button bets $12 into $19. Simon raises to $29. Button calls.

Turn: K♦ - Simon bets $25 into $77. Button calls.

River: 2♣ - Simon all-in for $67 into $125. 

 

**Hand #2**

$2/$5 Live Cash Game. $2,500 Effective Stacks

Note: A King was exposed & mucked preflop.

UTG+1 raises to $15. Button 3-bets to $60. Sam 4-bets to $200 with 8♠ 8♥. Both call

Flop: K♦ K♣ J♠ - Sam bets $100. UTG+1 calls. Button folds.

 

Turn: 9♥ - Sam bets $550 into $800. UTG+1 calls.

River: 9♣ - Sam all-in for $1,650 into $1,900.

 

**Hand #3**

$1/$3 Live Cash Game. $290 Effective Stacks

David is in the Hijack with K♥ Q♣

UTG+1 limps. David raises to $20. Button and Big Blind call. UTG+1 folds.

Flop: Q♥ 7♥ 3♥ - Big Blind leads $55 into $60. David calls. 

Turn: K♦ - Big Blind bets $145 into $175. David all-in for $225. 

 

00:00 Introduction to Hand Analysis

03:30 Flop Analysis: Queen-Eight-Six with Two Diamonds

05:18 Evaluating Turn Play with Double Gutshot

08:06 River Bluff Decision with Ten High

12:17 Hand 2: Pocket Eights in a Deep Stack Live Game

18:13 Navigating the King-King-Jack Flop

21:52 Analyzing Turn and River Play in Deep Stacks

27:38 Hand 3: King-Queen of Hearts in Live Play

35:38 Results and Lessons Learne

In this special episode of our poker strategy podcast, hosts Mike Brady and Gary Blackwood take a deep dive into hand analysis, breaking down some of the most challenging spots submitted by our listeners. The episode kicks off with a detailed review of a hand where a player went all-in with ten high, navigating complex decisions on every street. As Mike and Gary walk through the action, they provide valuable insights into when to bluff, when to call, and how to maximize your edge in similar situations.

Listeners will get a front-row seat to advanced discussions on four-betting ranges, leveraging solvers, and understanding opponent tendencies to gain an advantage. The hosts explore hands involving tricky board textures, tough turn decisions, and river spots where bluffing or folding might be the optimal play. They also touch on psychological aspects of the game, such as how to handle pressure and stay disciplined when making big moves.

Whether you're an online grinder or a live poker enthusiast, this poker strategy podcast will elevate your game by showcasing real-world examples that demonstrate both the art and science of poker. Mike and Gary highlight the importance of balancing aggression with calculated risk, and they discuss why sometimes unconventional plays—like going all-in with ten high—can be the most profitable strategy.

Tune in to this poker strategy podcast for an engaging and educational experience. Learn how to refine your decision-making process, develop a deeper understanding of poker theory, and sharpen your skills for your next session at the tables. Don’t miss this chance to gain invaluable insights from two seasoned pros as they dissect each hand and reveal the strategies that can make or break your game.