Poker in the Ears

It's that time of year again. James and Joe are heading to Vegas for The North American Poker Tour. They run through everything happening at #NAPTLasVegas, including the qualifying tournaments and auditions leading up to the filming of a new season of the Big Game on Tour. They're joined by Lily Newhouse, who knows what it takes to become a Loose Cannon and how to make a profit in the game itself. Finally, keeping with the overall theme of the show, Anthony McGovern from the UK answers questions about Las Vegas as he competes for a Bronze #PowerPass in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please follow/subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe summarise their trip to #EPTCyprus and talk to Main Event finalist Anton Wigg, the Swedish pro who won a European Poker Tour title in 2010 and has now made deep runs in Cyprus in back-to-back years. The podcast hosts also reveal their travel plans for the next few weeks, which include trips to #NAPTLasVegas, #BSOPMillions and #UKIPTNottingham. Finally, Joe has an idea: a twist on 'Superfan vs Stapes' which involves giving away MORE Bronze Power Passes! On that subject, please follow/subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe are heading to Cyprus for the penultimate leg of the 2024 European Poker Tour. Team Pro Lasse Lagd Lauritsen, better known as 'Wistern', is already there, so joins the guys to preview #EPTCyprus, ahead of six days of live streaming on the PokerStars Twitch and YouTube channels. This week's show also details an upcoming change to #PowerPath and reveals how YOU could earn a spot in the Loose Cannon auditions for the new season of the Big Game on Tour. Finally, there's a quiz about the London Underground, as Sam Waller competes for a Bronze #PowerPass in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please follow/subscribe to the podcast and join the #PITE community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

With the 2024 World Championship of Online Poker now in the books, James and Joe get a full summary of the series from their #WCOOP Correspondent Howard Swains. Plus, they talk to PokerStars Ambassador Parker 'tonkaaaa' Talbot, who won five titles during WCOOP, including two championship trophies. (He's also tested on his knowledge of the chimpanzee who shares his name and some of his personal habits!) Finally, Andrew Paton from Scotland picks 'Die Hard' as his specialist subject in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Considering it's one of Joe's favourite movies, he'll have to beat the odds to win a Bronze #PowerPass. Please follow/subscribe to the podcast and join the #PITE community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

It's (pretty much) all about #WCOOP this week. As the 2024 World Championship of Online Poker heads into its final weekend, James and Joe preview their Main Event coverage on the PokerStars Twitch channel and get an update from the man in the know, WCOOP Correspondent Howard Swains. Plus, they talk to the captain of the team currently sitting at the top of the WCOOP League, Sebastian 'peace&loove' Huber. Finally, there's a Bronze #PowerPass on the line, as Cory Cauvier from Nova Scotia takes on Joe at Moto GP trivia in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please follow/subscribe to the podcast and join the #PITE community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

There's a new poker movie for James and Joe to sink their teeth into. They review 'Dead Money', which stars Emile Hirsch as a professional player who endures a dramatic 24 hours at the tables in a series of private games. Emile joins the guys to discuss the film and how he rediscovered his love of poker while preparing for the role. Meanwhile, #WCOOP Correspondent Howard Swains is on hand with the latest stories from the 2024 World Championship of Online Poker. And London-based listener Connor Slack tries to win a Bronze #PowerPass answering questions about The Masters in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please follow/subscribe to the podcast and join the #PITE community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

What happened on and off the felt at #EPTBarcelona? James and Joe recap the European Poker Tour's 20th anniversary celebrations with two-time Super High Roller winner Kayhan Mokri. And, with the 2024 World Championship of Online Poker now running on PokerStars, they get the early headlines and series stats from #WCOOP Correspondent Howard Swains. Plus, Miles Miller from the USA picks 'Money Heist' as his specialist subject in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please follow/subscribe to the podcast and join the #PITE community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe celebrate the 20th anniversary of the European Poker Tour with its founder John Duthie. In an extended interview, John talks about his journey into the television industry, discovering poker in the 1980s, winning the first ever Poker Million, and seeing an opportunity to launch the EPT when the World Poker Tour didn't live up to its name. He also discusses some of the darker chapters in his life, and the business decisions he made that ultimately led to him losing control of the tour. Please follow/subscribe to the podcast and join the #PITE community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord). Next episode: Friday September 13th. Meanwhile, watch the #EPTBarcelona live stream on the PokerStars Twitch and YouTube channels: September 1st–8th.

James and Joe conclude their recap of the biggest poker stories of the summer by talking to this year's World Series of Poker Main Event champion Jonathan Tamayo. Obviously, 'laptop-gate' is a major point of discussion. Jonathan also talks about his journey into poker, how he and his coaches approached the WSOP final table, and exclusively reveals how he's spending his $10m winnings! The guys also look ahead to #EPT20 – the 20th anniversary of the European Poker Tour – and run through some of the onsite activities taking place at #EPTBarcelona, and the live streaming schedule. Finally, there's a Bronze #PowerPass up for grabs, as Daniel Maylin-Petrou answers questions about the TV show 'Suits' in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please follow/subscribe to the podcast and join the #PITE community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord). A reminder: you can watch James and Joe discussing Bond films on Sunday August 25th at 20:00 BST (youtube.com/@James_Hartigan).

James and Joe are back from their extended summer break and have a LOT to discuss. Joe's comedy tour, James's multiple trips to Vegas during the WSOP, UKIPT Malaga, a charity poker tournament in Hollywood, Destination RunGood at Thunder Valley, UKIPT London. And more! Plus, with new episodes of 'The Big Game on Tour' still dropping on the PokerStars YouTube channel every week, the guys talk to the first Loose Cannon Nikki Limo about her experience on the show and ask what advice she'd offer players considering auditioning for the new season. Finally, David Baer from Minnesota tries to win #PITE merch answering questions about the movie 'Annihilation' in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please follow/subscribe to the podcast and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

For their second summer special, James and Joe talk to the newest PokerStars ambassador: Belgian poker pro, former WSOP finalist and tournament director Kenny Hallaert. Kenny started his poker journey as an online grinder nearly 20 years ago. He's since organised and run live events in his home country, has worked as a floor person for the EPT, is a member of the Tournament Director's Association, and is well known for compiling a comprehensive list of all tournaments running in Las Vegas during the summer months. Also on this episode, James recounts a hand history (aka: bad beat) from the first weekend of the World Series of Poker. And, with 'The Big Game on Tour' returning to TV screens on Friday July 26th, the guys recap the key hands and stories from the first table. Next podcast: August 15th. In the meantime, please follow/subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

For their first summer special, James and Joe present a Poker Movie Monday (on a Wednesday). And the motion picture they're reviewing might be one of the worst they've ever seen. The harsh reality is that most films featuring poker are pretty bad and nearly all films featuring Steven Seagal are atrocious. So, imagine a poker movie starring Seagal! That's 'Gutshot Straight'. The guys are joined by Rob Perez (aka: WorldWideWob) to analyse and dissect this direct-to-video "thriller” from 2014. It's also the subject of the Superfan quiz, as Logan Hunt tries to win a couple of Power Passes. Next summer special: July 24th. In the meantime, please follow/subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

With the 2024 Spring Championship of Online Poker in the books, James and Joe recap the series with their #SCOOP Correspondent Howard Swains, summarising the headline stats and biggest stories of the last three weeks. Plus, the guys talk to Lex Veldhuis, who won his first SCOOP trophy this year and triumphed in the inaugural SCOOP League. Lex also discusses the swings he experienced on The Big Game on Tour (new episodes every Saturday on the PokerStars YouTube channel) and the upcoming Lex Live event in Spain. Finally, EPT Barcelona is the topic of the Superfan quiz, as Cornel Puscau competes for a #PowerPass. Next episode: June 26th. In the meantime, please follow/subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

Players from every continent will be heading to Las Vegas in the coming days for the 2024 World Series of Poker. James and Joe look ahead to this year's #WSOP and discuss when they'll be there and what they're planning to do and play. Plus, they talk to the man who won the 2023 Main Event bracelet – and $12.1m – Daniel Weinman. Meanwhile, ahead of Main Event Sunday in the Spring Championship of Online Poker, the guys get an update from #SCOOP Correspondent Howard Swains. Also on this week's show, the #PITE community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord) review Episode 2 of The Big Game on Tour, James reveals why and how he's going to give away prizes at ESPT/UKIPT Malaga, and Dutch barbershop singer Mickey Gijzen competes for PokerStars merch in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please follow/subscribe to the podcast.

The Big Game on Tour is finally here, with new shows broadcast every Friday on FS1 in the USA and uploaded to the PokerStars YouTube channel the following day. James and Joe recap the first episode with the star of the show: Oscar-nominated actress Jennifer Tilly. They also talk about Joe's premiere party and discuss James's experience playing in a #WSOPC event at The Commerce. #SCOOP Correspondent Howard Swains drops by with the latest stories and stats from the Spring Championship of Online Poker, and Andy Wallace from the UK returns to the podcast to answer questions about the Big Game in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please follow/subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe are back from Monaco. They start the show paying tribute to Steve Albini, the two-time WSOP bracelet winner and legendary music producer who died this week at the age of 61. The guys then look back at #EPTMonteCarlo, with some behind-the-scenes stories and an interview with Main Event finalist Rania Nasreddine. #SCOOP Correspondent Howard Swains returns to the podcast to provide the early headlines from the 2024 Spring Championship of Online Poker, while Maureen Bloechlinger from Switzerland takes on Joe at poker trivia in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Finally, there are details of when and where you can see the #BigGameOnTour. Please follow/subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe are about to head to the PokerStars European Poker Tour Presented by Monte-Carlo Casino. They look ahead to seven days of live streaming (April 28th – May 4th) on the PokerStars Twitch and YouTube channels, plus a second edition of the #MysteryCashChallenge. Among the players taking part in this cash game at #EPTMonteCarlo is YouTube star Alexander Seibt, aka: Wolfgang Poker. He joins the guys, just minutes after arriving in Monaco, to talk about his expectations for the game and reflect on the incredible success of his recent videos, one of which has received more than 100m views! Finally, Arpi Toth chooses the TV show 'Nathan for You' as his specialist subject in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please follow/subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

In a change to our advertised programming, James and Joe are joined by poker player, coach, content creator, author, and commentator Lexy Gavin-Mather. In an extended interview, Lexy talks about her start in poker, her years as an online grinder, her first foray into live poker at the PCA, finding love on the circuit, and diversifying into coaching and writing. Meanwhile, a former member of the #PITE production team, Viviana Pazmino, volunteers for 'Superfan vs Stapes'. And Joe is NOT happy about her chosen specialist subject. Please follow/subscribe to the podcast and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord). Also, make sure you subscribe to James's YouTube channel (youtube.com/@James_Hartigan) and heed Joe's edict: positive feedback only!

James is celebrating a deep run and a $5k score in the #SundayMillionAnniversary. He and Joe also celebrate the champion 'CrossBreed17', having streamed the final table and the winning moment on the PokerStars Twitch channel. They guys are then joined by Jon Sofen, Senior US Editor at PokerNews, to discuss the latest poker stories from North America, including the WPT Voyage, controversy surrounding the WSOP Tournament of Champions, and a win for Robbi Jade Lew. Finally, Josh Rawlings from the UK hopes to continue his streak of winning Power Passes from #PITE, as he competes against Joe in a quiz about the movie 'Poor Things'. Please follow/subscribe to the podcast and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord). Check out video highlights from #PITE300 on James's YouTube channel (youtube.com/@James_Hartigan).

James and Joe are back from Dublin – and Stapes has recovered from a nasty stomach bug – so they recap the last few days of the #IrishOpen in the company of Main Event champion Tero Laurila: the first ever Irish Open winner from Finland. He talks about his 20-year poker career and what it means to him to win such a historic title. Meanwhile, Swedish listener Robin Berg tries to secure a victory of his own in 'Superfan vs Stapes', answering questions about 'Captain America: Civil War'. Please follow/subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

It's a special edition of the podcast recorded on location at the #IrishOpen in Dublin on Day 1A of the Main Event. James and Joe have had the chance to play a couple of tournaments, and Joe scored big in one of them. Felix Schneiders from Team Pro streamed the final table on Twitch, so joins the guys to discuss Joe's journey to (near) victory. Event owner Paul O'Reilly then sits down to talk about the history and legacy of the Irish Open and why he believes it's become such a popular festival. Finally, pros David Lappin and Dara O'Kearney – hosts of the award-winning 'Chip Race' podcast – reveal what this iconic event means to them. Expect to hear from both David and Dara on the Irish Open Main Event live stream, broadcasting on the PokerStars Twitch and YouTube channels: Friday 29th March – Monday 1st April. Please follow/subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

It's the #PITE300 after-party, as James and Joe recap what happened behind-the-scenes in the run up to their live show in London, and what happened at the poker tables afterwards. Patrick Marber's name came up a couple of times at The Hippodrome, and the actor-writer-director is the guest on this week's episode. Patrick talks about playing in the 'Archway Game' with Vicky Coren and the Boatman brothers, writing the award-winning play 'Dealer's Choice' – revealing that one of the characters is based on Barny Boatman – and discusses some of his characters from the classic comedy series 'The Day Today'. Meanwhile, James relives his experience playing, streaming, and cashing the #SundayMillion for the very first time, and Jude Arrowsmith from the UK picks science as his specialist subject in 'Superfan vs Stapes', competing for a Bronze #PowerPass. Please follow/subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

To celebrate their third centenary, James and Joe returned to The Hippodrome Casino in London on Wednesday 13th March 2024 to record the podcast on stage in front of an audience of fans. This special live show opens with a five-minute stand-up set from Stapes, followed by a Poker Movie Monday, as the guys revisit 'Win It All' with the Netflix film's star and co-writer Jake Johnson. #PITE300 then focusses on the upcoming #IrishOpen with Fintan Hand and Benjamin Spragg from Team Pro, plus The Club podcast's Rory Jennings, Adam McKola and Laurence Bury. After introducing the newest PokerStars Ambassador, Barny Boatman, there's the chance for everyone to play one of Joe's stupid games, plus time for James to get excited nerding out over poker players' watches with YouTube star Nico Leonard. Finally, our hosts are joined on stage by writer, TV presenter and two-time European Poker Tour champion Victoria Coren Mitchell. Please follow/subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

With one week to go until their live show at The Hippodrome in London, James and Joe preview #PITE300 and celebrate the success of a couple of their friends at last month's #GlobalPokerAwards. They're joined by Marle Spragg – winner of Best X/Twitter Personality – and Francine Watson, Associate Director, Creative and Content at PokerStars. Francine collected the award for Best Live Stream on behalf of the entire production team. She's worked on the EPT TV shows and webcasts since the very beginning and now execs all the content produced by Stars (including this podcast). Finally, Martin Reis from Switzerland competes for a Bronze #PowerPass in 'Superfan vs Stapes' answering questions about 'The Peanut Butter Falcon'. Please follow/subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

Following a big weekend, which saw UK poker legend Barny Boatman take down the #EPTParis Main Event and the PokerStars live stream production team triumph at the #GlobalPokerAwards, James and Joe look back on a successful start to the European Poker Tour's 2024 season and highlight some of the key winners at the GPI's awards ceremony in Vegas. Please excuse our hosts for being a bit under the weather, as they're joined by the EPT's newest, and oldest ever champion. Barny reflects on his achievement, revisits the hero call that earned him the chip lead, and reacts to the messages of support he's received from the poker community and the mainstream media coverage of his victory. Plus, Peter Hartmann from Germany picks 'We Are Marshall' as his specialist subject and competes for prizes in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please follow/subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

There's less than a month to go until #PITE300: James and Joe's live show at The Hippodrome in London. Listen to this episode to find out how to secure your seats and hear a few headline details about the event. Meanwhile, with #EPTParis getting underway, the guys look ahead to the 2024 European Poker Tour season, and speak to the most recent EPT champion, Padraig O'Neill, who won #EPTPrague just before Christmas for more than €1m. Plus, your responses to Joe's lottery scratch card dilemma, and Finnish Superfan Santeri Ylisela competes for a Bronze #PowerPass. Please follow/subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe are reeling from what might be the worst poker scene ever filmed (and that's saying something), having watched 'The Good Ship Murder'. They review the poker-themed episode of this British TV series and ask poker pro and coach Jonathan Little to analyse the Hold'em hands. Jonathan also talks about his success in last week's PokerGO Cup and reflects on some of his recent social media "interactions.” The hosts move on to discuss other TV shows and movies they've consumed and announce the date for #PITE300, their next live show at The Hippodrome Casino in London (more details to follow in the coming weeks). Meanwhile, Discord reacts to Sandy's degeneracy at #EPTPrague, and there's a new dilemma for the podcast community to chew on (psta.rs/Discord). Finally, Jodieann Winter returns to #PITE, competing for two Bronze Power Passes in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. The subject of the quiz? 'The Good Ship Murder' of course!

Welcome to #PITE 2024! On their first podcast of the year, James and Joe recap some of the big poker headlines of the last six weeks. From the good – the Global Poker Award nominations – to the bad – accusations of super users and bots on other sites. As far as PokerStars is concerned, the Sunday Million 18th Anniversary has been announced and the new revamped Rewards program is live. The hosts are joined by two Stars execs, Ashley Chase, Associate Director of CRM and Loyalty, and Chris Straghalis, Director of Online Poker Experience, to discuss what's changed and why, and how the poker community has reacted. Meanwhile, Joe reveals how Sandy the Degenerate descended to new levels of Sandy-ness at #EPTPrague. And James Harpin from the UK competes for a Bronze #PowerPass, answering questions about 'The Simpsons' in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please follow/subscribe to the show and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

In their final episode of 2023, James and Joe look ahead to the last European Poker Tour event of the year: #EPTPrague. They run through the live streaming schedule (six days of coverage on the PokerStars Twitch and YouTube channels) and catch up with 2016 Main Event champion Jasper Meijer van Putten. The second guest of the week is mindset coach Elliot Roe, who discusses his new book 'A-Game Poker'. Plus, Joe talks about being auctioned off at a charity tournament, and Ed Nice from the UK hopes to be rewarded for watching the terrible movie 'Champagne and Bullets' as he takes part in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please follow/subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord). The podcast returns in February 2024.

James and Joe are still recovering from Vegas (and a large Thanksgiving meal), but have had a bit of time to relax, watch movies…and read a book! Yes, on this week's podcast, they delve into 'The Truth Detective' by Alex O'Brien. Alex is a science writer and poker enthusiast. She talks about the idea behind her book, subtitled 'A Poker Player's Guide to a Complex World', and the work that went into it, and also discusses her passion for poker and commitment to challenging misconceptions about the game. Finally, William Hunter from Jersey competes for a #PowerPass in 'Superfan vs Stapes', answering questions about the 2001 version of 'Ocean's Eleven'. Please follow/subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

Welcome to the Vegas afterparty! James and Joe have finally left the poker capital of the world (after 18 days) and recap what happened in the last week of their trip, in the run up to, and during the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The guys are joined by a Formula 1 expert – Tom Bellingham from the P1 podcast – to recap the race and talk about his Grand Tauro experience and the special charity poker events hosted by PokerStars and Oracle Red Bull Racing. Plus, Dutch poker pro Mark Roovers takes on Joe in 'Superfan vs Stapes', answering questions about the movie 'The Big Short'. Please follow/subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe are roughly mid-way through their Las Vegas adventure, with the Big Game on Tour in the can and #NAPTLasVegas in the books. They discuss what happened behind-the-scenes while filming the Big Game and casting the Loose Cannons and celebrate the successful return of the North American Poker Tour. Plus, there's the chance to hear from two NAPT champions: Main Event winner Sami Bechahed and High Roller champ Sam Laskowitz. The hosts also talk about their 12-hour trip to Bakersfield in a private jet, as focus switches to F1 week and the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Finally, Iwan Struggles from Sheffield in the UK chooses the TV show 'Community' as his specialist subject in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe are heading to Vegas for the first North American Poker Tour event in more than a decade, plus the F1 Grand Prix! They discuss the #NAPTLasVegas live streaming schedule (three days of cards-up coverage on the PokerStars Twitch and YouTube channels) and look ahead to the return of the Big Game. The guys are joined on the podcast by actor and high stakes regular Arden Cho, who's among the players taking a seat in this $100/$200 cash game. While talking to Arden, James and Joe reveal a few other names from the Big Game on Tour line-up and confirm who'll be joining them at Resorts World to help cast the Loose Cannons. Finally, My Nguyen from Canada competes for a Power Pass, answering questions about the poker movie 'Molly's Game' in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

With the first ever #EPTCyprus in the books, James and Joe recap their trip to Kyrenia and speak to Main Event champ Gilles Simon. In an extended interview, he talks about his poker journey, from streamer, to Platinum Pass winner, to professional player to besting a field of more than 1,300 to become a European Poker Tour champion. Plus, the guys look ahead to #NAPTLasVegas and the return of the Big Game…on Tour, with details of the qualification path and selection process for Loose Cannons. No 'Superfan vs Stapes' this week. But if you'd like to apply to be a Superfan, or just want to comment on the podcast, please check out the #PITE channels on the PokerStars Discord server (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe are making their first ever trip to Cyprus for the penultimate event of the 2023 European Poker Tour season. They provide details of the streaming schedule (October 18-22 on the PokerStars Twitch and YouTube channels) and the accompanying Mini EPT online series. Plus, the guys are joined by Super High Roller regular Daniel Dvoress, who's spent his fair share of time at the Merit Royal Diamond Hotel Casino and Spa, playing Triton tournaments, so is ideally placed to talk about the venue and preview #EPTCyprus. Finally, remember Wouter Beltz from the #EPTBarcelona live stream? Well, he's on the podcast, answering questions about the Christopher Nolan movie 'Tenet' in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe draw a line under the 2023 World Championship of Online Poker, with #WCOOP Correspondent Howard Swains providing the final facts and figures. Plus, this week's special guest is Benny 'RunGodlike' Glaser who claimed an unprecedented seven trophies during the series and now has the highest number of WCOOP wins (and overall COOP titles). But did he manage to secure that coveted Player of the Series accolade? Finally, Scottish listener Peter Kelly challenges Joe on 'Raiders of the Lost Ark' trivia in 'Superfan vs Stapes', with a Bronze Power Pass and #PITE merch on the line. Please subscribe to the podcast and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

Big things are happening in the USA. The inaugural #NACOOP has been a huge success. Maria Konnikova, author of 'The Biggest Bluff', is returning as an ambassador. The North American Poker Tour is coming back after more than a decade. So, James and Joe bring Steve Preiss, VP of PokerStars North America, onto the podcast to talk about what players can expect at #NAPTLasVegas (November 4-12 at Resorts World Las Vegas), his plans and ideas for the coming months, and the prospect of more states and provinces regulating online poker. Plus, as the 2023 World Championship of Online Poker enters the home straight, #WCOOP Correspondent Howard Swains provides a summary of the latest headlines (spoiler alert: Benny Glaser continues to dominate the agenda). And London taxi driver Mark Johnston is not giving away his shot. He competes for a Bronze Power Pass, answering questions about the musical 'Hamilton' in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

For their latest Poker Movie Monday (recorded on a Wednesday, released on a Thursday), James and Joe discuss 'The Adults', starring former #PITE guest Michael Cera. They talk to the film's writer-director Dustin Defa about the importance of poker to the story and the challenges that come with staging and shooting Hold'em scenes. Meanwhile, as the 2023 World Championship of Online Poker continues, #WCOOP Correspondent Howard Swains delivers the latest stats and headlines. And then there's Jack Sinclair. He may be a former World Series of Poker Europe Main Event winner, but can he get the better of Joe in 'Superfan vs Stapes'? Please subscribe to the podcast and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe have a lot to get through in this extended episode of the podcast. In addition to recapping #EPTBarcelona, and speaking to Main Event champion Simon Wiciak, Joe talks about a "lively” comedy night in west London and hosting a charity event in Las Vegas, while James discusses his trip to #UKIPTBrighton and celebrates Spraggy's success beside the seaside. Plus, the guys highlight the abundance of live poker to watch, with the EPT TV shows airing in the US and Canada and the PokerStars Mystery Cash Challenge being released on YouTube. And, with the 2023 World Championship of Online Poker now underway, there's an early update from #WCOOP Correspondent Howard Swains. Finally, Dennis Girton from Ohio competes for #PITE merch in a 'Psych'-themed edition of 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe to the show and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe are about to head to Spain for the next stop on the European Poker Tour. That means it's time for the #EPTBarcelona Preview Show! They run through the streaming schedule – eight days of cards-up coverage on the PokerStars Twitch and YouTube channels, starting Sunday August 27 – and speak to Brazilian pro Fabiano Kovalski, who's enjoyed a lot of success at Casino Barcelona in recent years, including a fourth place finish in the 2022 Main Event. Plus, the guys are joined by Michigan-based streamer Daniel Schill (aka: DrDadPoker), as he answers questions about the movie 'Forgetting Sarah Marshall' in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. #PITE returns in mid-September. In the meantime, please subscribe to the podcast and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe are back from their break, ready to reveal what happened in Las Vegas this summer. Both played the World Series of Poker Main Event for the first time, with different expectations and experiences. Spoiler alert: neither of the guys made the money, but they're joined by a player who did cash in the tournament. Nate Silver, the statistician and writer, best known for analysing polling data and forecasting election results, talks about his deep run, and how it feels to make the top 100 in the biggest #WSOP Main Event of all time. Plus, Ross Lambert from the UK competes for a Bronze Power Pass and some #PITE merch, answering questions about the movie 'Rush' in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe to the podcast and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

In this summer special (recorded a few weeks ago), James and Joe look at two "iconic” poker movies. They revisit 'Lucky You' (first reviewed in Episode 103) in the company of one of the film's consultants and stars: tournament director Matt Savage. Plus, the guys discuss Michael Flatley's 'Blackbird', an incredibly awful vanity project that features one of the most hilarious Hold'em scenes in cinema history. 'Blackbird' is also the subject of 'Superfan vs Stapes', as Andre Nazar returns to the podcast for his shot at redemption. #PITE returns from its summer break on Thursday August 17. In the meantime, please join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe are both preparing to travel to Vegas to play the $10k World Series of Poker Main Event. James is excited. Joe is incredibly stressed. So, they enlist the services of legendary broadcaster Lon McEachern – the voice of the #WSOP for more than two decades – to provide a pep talk and some useful hints, tips and life hacks. The guys also talk about the new #PowerPath on PokerStars, and give loyal listener Jon Laight the chance to win a Bronze Power Pass in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. The next episode of the podcast will be a summer special, released in mid-July. In the meantime, please join the #PITE community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

After a two-week break – during which they spent some time together in LA – James and Joe are back, catching up on what's been happening at the 2023 World Series of Poker. They enlist the services of PokerGo's Jeff Platt to provide the details on the key winners and headline stories from the first three weeks of the #WSOP. Plus, James reveals why a change in personal circumstances has "inspired” him to go to Vegas this summer. No Superfan this week, but you can apply to appear on the podcast and join the #PITE community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

With the 2023 Spring Championship of Online Poker in the books, James and Joe take a retrospective look at the series and review the headline stats and stories with their #SCOOP Correspondent Howard Swains. Plus, the guys briefly discuss some other big events in the poker world, including the 'Million Dollar Cash Game' and the start of the World Series of Poker. Finally, Stephen Garvie from Australia picks the gambling-themed movie 'Let it Ride' as his specialist subject in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. The next episode of the podcast will be released on Friday June 23. In the meantime, please subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

This week's podcast focusses on the release of the new video series 'Between the Lines', a collaboration between PokerStars and Oracle Red Bull Racing. James and Joe analyse the first episode (available to watch on the PokerStars YouTube channel and at pokerstars.net/poker/between-the-lines) and speak to Will Courtenay – Head of Race Strategy at Red Bull – to get a better understanding of how strategy works in F1, and to preview the Monaco Grand Prix. Plus, Jamie Robinson from the UK tries to win prizes, answering questions about the comedy 'Happy Gilmore' in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe start this week's podcast paying tribute to Doyle Brunson, 'The Godfather of Poker', who's died at the age of 89. They then recap their trip to Monaco and talk to the #EPTMonteCarlo Main Event champion: two-time European Poker Tour winner Mike Watson. Plus, mid-way through the Spring Championship of Online Poker, there's an update on the series from #SCOOP correspondent Howard Swains. Finally, Jamie McHugh from Scotland picks 'A Bridge to Far' as his specialist subject in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe are heading to Monaco for the PokerStars EPT Presented by Monte-Carlo Casino, so look ahead to seven days of live streams on Twitch and YouTube (April 30-May 6) and talk to former champion Manig Loeser, who won the #EPTMonteCarlo Main Event in 2019. Plus, James provides a brief overview of the plans for cards-up coverage of #SCOOP in the second half of May. And Andy Wallace from Scotland tries to out-nerd Joe, answering questions about Marvel Comics in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. The next episode of #PITE will be published on Friday May 19. In the meantime, please subscribe to the podcast and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

With the 2023 Spring Championship of Online Poker just around the corner (May 7-31), James and Joe go behind-the-scenes at PokerStars to talk to the man responsible for planning, scheduling, building and running every tournament series on the global site. Steve Clarricoats has been working at Stars since 2005, and is currently Head of Poker Operations for the Global Market. He talks about his history with the company and discusses all the factors that go into creating a daily MTT schedule and a 25-day series like #SCOOP, from formats and structures to buy-ins and guarantees. Plus, Andrew Dickinson from the UK tries to follow up his recent success at the #IrishOpen by winning a #SundayMillion ticket in a 'Se7en'-themed edition of 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe to #PITE and join the podcast community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

The guys are back from Dublin, where they worked on the live stream and played at the tables at the Irish Poker Open. Joe entered a couple of small side events, while James fired three bullets (courtesy of PokerStars) in the €1k Main Event, earning nothing more than some time at the #PokerStarsTV table and a trilogy of brutal bust-out stories, one of which gets recounted and analysed. But the main focus of the podcast is the man who WON the #IrishOpen Main Event for €365,000: Scottish pro David Docherty. He talks about his early years in poker, his recent near-miss at #EPTLondon, and his experience playing in, and taking down Europe's longest running No Limit Hold'em tournament. Plus, in keeping with the theme of the show, Irish #PITE listener Trish Howard answers questions about her home country in 'Superfan vs Stapes', with a #SundayMillion ticket on the line. Please subscribe and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

Joe has a VERY special surprise for James on this week's podcast. The guys are heading to Dublin for the 2023 #IrishOpen (well, Joe's actually already there) and look ahead to the IPO Main Event with Fintan Hand, who made the final table of the tournament in 2017 and now lives 15 minutes from the venue. They discuss what makes the Irish Poker Open such a unique, well-loved festival and preview their four days of live coverage on Twitch and YouTube (April 7-10), revealing WHO you can expect to see on #PokerStarsTV on Day 1c! The hosts also provide their "hot takes” on the poker scene in 'John Wick 4' and the ongoing grudge match between Matt Berkey and Nik Airball. Finally, Kari Alexander from Colorado is down with 'Party Down' as she competes for #PITE merch in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

The Sunday Million has celebrated its 17th birthday, and James and Joe are celebrating the success stories of a couple of players. They recap their live coverage of the #SundayMillionAnniversary in the company of Nick Walsh, who faded commentary duties by making the final day of the tournament. Nick talks about his rollercoaster ride to the last two tables, and cashing out in 16th place for his biggest ever online score. Plus, the guys talk about the eventual champion, Brazil's 'RFN1986', who received the guaranteed first prize of $1m. Finally, Andre Nazar from the UK chooses the movie 'The Founder' as his specialist subject in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe to #PITE and join the podcast community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

With so much happening in the poker world in the first quarter of the year, James and Joe have had to postpone their annual pop culture special. Now, the guys are finally able to take a deep dive into the films and TV shows they've watched in recent months. Joining them as special guest reviewer – following in the footsteps of Niall Farrell and Sam Greenwood – is high stakes legend Phil Galfond. He discusses his unique televisual tastes, and passes judgement on 'The Menu', 'Glass Onion' and 'She-Hulk'. Meanwhile, Joe has seen pretty much every film released in the last six months, while James has been watching emotionally-draining dramas and refusing to finish 'Bullet Train'. Finally, there's a sport-themed edition of 'Superfan vs Stapes' to close out the show, as Tom Taylor Hall from the UK tries to win a #SundayMillionAnniversary ticket answering questions about F1. Please subscribe to the podcast and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

Joe has just returned from ANOTHER trip to Vegas, where he was helping host a group of Red Spade Pass winners from Toronto. He talks about the experience that PokerStars provided, including VIP tickets to a couple of NBA games in LA, and a poker tutorial and tournament at Resorts World. Plus, the guys deal with some unfinished business from last week, running through all the winners in the major categories at the #GlobalPokerAwards, and speaking to the Rising Star in Content Creation, Caitlin Comeskey. James and Joe also cover a couple of other poker news headlines, before giving Marlo Nielsen (aka: LimeRickey) from Canada the chance to win a #SundayMillionAnniversary ticket in a Duran Duran-themed edition of 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

The guys are just back from Las Vegas, where James was named Best Broadcaster at the #GlobalPokerAwards, so share some stories from their trip, mostly relating to spending/losing a lot of money. They also recap their slightly-less-recent voyage to France for the first European Poker Tour event of 2023: #EPTParis. James and Joe talk to the players who finished first and second in the Main Event, Razvan Belea (@belearazvan on Instagram) and Peter Jorgne, and reflect on whether they should have queued for the steak restaurant that Matt Savage recommended. Finally, Adam Hemmings from the UK takes on Joe at general trivia in 'Superfan vs Stapes', hoping to win a #SundayMillion ticket and some PokerStars merch. Please subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord) where you can talk to the hosts and submit your Superfan application.

Lots to get through on this week's show. James and Joe recap an exciting, eventful and exhausting #PCA2023 and #PSPC, in the company of Niclas Thumm, the #PlatinumPass winner from Germany who came sixth in the PokerStars Players No Limit Hold'em Championship for more than $1m. They also talk about this year's #GlobalPokerAwards, where James, this podcast and the #PokerStarsTV live stream are in the running for trophies, and look ahead to the next big live event. Yes, even though they're still in post-Bahamas recovery mode, the guys are heading to France for the first ever #EPTParis. They run through the live streaming schedule (22nd – 26th February on the PokerStars Twitch and YouTube channels) and provide details of the Mini EPT Paris online series. Please subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord) where you can submit your Superfan application.

Here we go! James and Joe give away the final #PlatinumPass before the Bahamas. Find out who from the #PITE community is going to #PCA2023 to play the $25k PokerStars Players No Limit Hold'em Championship. Before that, the guys are joined by poker pro and commentator Griffin Benger to preview the PokerStars Caribbean Adventure and the #PSPC. They talk about what's happening when, what's being streamed (on Twitch and YouTube) and what's being filmed for TV. Make sure you listen to the end of the show, please subscribe to the podcast and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

An exciting show with an incredible opportunity. In their first podcast of 2023, James and Joe catch up with the 'Platinum Five': the first players to qualify for the forthcoming #PSPC. Clement, Adrian, Christoph, Danielle and Daryl came to Barcelona in August 2019 to take part in the 'Chase Your Dream' promotion. Each of them received a #PlatinumPass; all of them have been waiting three-and-a-half years for the PokerStars Players No Limit Hold'em Championship. And from the first winners…to the last. The guys reveal how YOU could get your hands on the final Platinum Pass before the Bahamas. Yes, there's an exclusive #PITE contest awarding a $30k PSPC package. Terms and conditions apply. T&Cs: https://www.pokerstars.com/poker/learn/poker-in-the-ears-podcast-platinum-pass-competition-terms-and-conditions/ OR https://pokerstarslearn.com/poker/learn/poker-in-the-ears-podcast-platinum-pass-competition-terms-and-conditions/ Discord: http://psta.rs/Discord

It's the last episode of the year, and there's lots to discuss. With #EPTPrague getting underway, the guys look ahead to the final European Poker Tour stop of 2022 and their five days of live coverage of the Main Event on the PokerStars Twitch and YouTube channels (14th – 18th December). They also speak to EPT legend Steve O'Dwyer: a former champion and Super High Roller crusher, who's just arrived in Prague and is thrilled to learn that he no longer has to #EmbraceTheSqueak! Meanwhile, Joe recaps his trip to Thunder Valley which resulted in a couple of deep runs and a big score on the slots, and James talks about hosting the recent Oracle Red Bull Racing x PokerStars charity poker tournament. Finally, Kaan Becer from Vancouver is this week's 'Superfan vs Stapes' contestant, answering questions about the infamous 'Game of Thrones' finale. #PITE returns in 2023. Please subscribe to the podcast and join the community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

This week, James and Joe discuss 'Poker Face'. Not the song by Lady Gaga. Not the upcoming TV series created by Rian Johnson. But the 2022 film, co-written by, directed by and starring Russell Crowe. Yes, it's a Poker Movie Monday (on a Wednesday, released on a Thursday) with special guest reviewer Jon 'PearlJammer' Turner, an online legend and cinema aficionado. The guys also recap the most recent #SundayMillion, get the thoughts of the #EPT tournament staff on Joe's "accidental angle-shoot,” and give Pennsylvania-based listener Barry Ingram the chance to win some prizes in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. His chosen specialist subject? 'Tommy Boy'. Please subscribe to #PITE and join the podcast community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

Joe is back from a live poker series in San Diego. He provides James with a field report and a few hand histories, including an accidental angle shoot which led to a controversial ruling (let us know your thoughts: psta.rs/Discord). The guys also talk about online poker in the USA, as they're joined by the newest member of Team PokerStars Pro, Michigan-based streamer David Kaye. Finally, Alfie Brepotra from the UK competes for a #SundayMillion ticket in 'Superfan vs Stapes', answering questions about 'Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone'. Please subscribe to #PITE and join the podcast community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

Welcome to the Jungle! The legendary Daniel 'Jungleman' Cates is the guest on this week's podcast, discussing how he's changed as a person since the days of the nosebleeds on Stars and Tilt, his interest in music and charity, the importance of integrity in poker, and the things he'd like to change about the game (he's not a fan of players who feel the need "to randomise and tank 20 seconds on each hand”). Plus, there's the chance to learn about Yu-Gi-Oh, as Sam Di Taranto from New Jersey competes for prizes in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

A few weeks later than originally planned, James and Joe are able to draw a line under #WCOOP, and provide a full recap of the 2022 World Championship of Online Poker. Having spent three consecutive nights covering the $10k Main Event, the guys deliver a slightly shorter podcast than usual, but summarise the key stats and stories (just how many trophies did Brazilian players win?), and find time for a general trivia themed edition of 'Superfan vs Stapes', with long-time listener and live stream viewer Julian Laing competing for a #SundayMillion ticket and PokerStars merch. Please subscribe to #PITE and join our community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

Following their week of live streams from the UK capital, Joe is back in LA and James is in Malta "on PokerStars business.” They look back at #EPTLondon 2022, summarising the key winners and recapping the Main Event, a tournament filled with many accomplished players and interesting characters. One of those characters was the Romanian film-maker (and producer of #dogpoopgirl) Dan Chisu. He joins the guys to reflect on his deep run in London, which resulted in a seat at the final table, and his career in cinema and comedy. Finally, Canadian listener Tim Assie competes for a #SundayMillion ticket in 'Superfan vs Stapes', answering questions about the movie 'What We Do in the Shadows'. Please subscribe to #PITE and join the podcast community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

It's the #EPTLondon preview show. James and Joe look ahead to the European Poker Tour festival at the Hilton Park Lane, summarising their streaming schedule (on the PokerStars Twitch and YouTube channels) and providing the headline details of the accompanying Mini EPT online series. Plus, they take a trip down memory lane, re-living moments from London Main Events of yesteryear, and speak to former champion Robin Ylitalo: the Swedish player who lifted the trophy back in 2013 and recently won two #WCOOP titles. Finally, the nerd factor is super high in 'Superfan vs Stapes', as Matt Cooper from the UK answers questions about 'Star Trek: The Next Generation'. Please subscribe to #PITE and join the podcast community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

In the wake of new revelations and dramatic developments, James and Joe revisit the controversy surrounding the hand between Robbi Jade Lew and Garrett Adelstein on Hustler Casino Live. They also get the thoughts of this week's guest, Maria Ho. But her primary responsibility is to analyse Joe Stapleton. Specifically, to break down his play in a recent cash game. So, there's some detailed strat talk, as Maria pores over a series of hand histories (NLHE and PLO). Finally, Aaron Sinukoff from Canada competes for #PITE merch in 'Superfan vs Stapes', answering questions about the movie 'Catch Me If You Can'. Please subscribe and join the podcast community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

In the wake of the most controversial "hero call” of all time – a hand on Hustler Casino Live that has provoked allegations of cheating – James and Joe enlist the help of high stakes pro Sam Grafton to analyse the confrontation between Garrett Adelstein and Robbi Jade Lew (8c7c vs Jc4h), and provide his thoughts on what REALLY happened. Sam also discusses his recent huge score: winning $5.5m in a $200k invitational event at the Triton Super High Roller Series in Cyprus. None of this should overshadow Joe's accomplishment! He explains how he won a $10k World Series of Poker Main Event seat in a charity tournament in California at the weekend. Finally, Daniel Baron from the UK volunteers to 'Go' for glory and a #SundayMillion ticket in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe and join the #PITE community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

This was meant to be the #WCOOP 2022 recap episode. But the agenda changed on Sunday 25th September when there was a malicious Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack on PokerStars, resulting in the cancellation of all World Championship of Online Poker Main Events. Understandably, this left thousands of players angry and disappointed. So, James and Joe are joined by Chris Straghalis, Director of Online Poker Experience at Stars, to discuss what happened. Strag talks through the events of that night, apologises to those affected, explains how the site is responding to the threat of further attacks, and reveals plans for a bigger and better final weekend of WCOOP in November. Even though several tournaments have been postponed, there are still results from the series worth highlighting, so the guys check in with Howard Swains from the PokerStars Blog. And Sebastian Generali from the USA picks 'Donnie Brasco' as his specialist subject in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe and join the #PITE community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

Three weeks into the 2022 World Championship of Online Poker, James and Joe take stock of the series so far with Howard Swains from the PokerStars Blog. Plus, they speak to UK pro Benny 'RunGodlike' Glaser, who's having a solid #WCOOP: at the time of recording, he's won two trophies and has come second in five other events, making him a strong contender for Player of the Series. There's also some (amateurish) strat talk, as James tries to get his head around a hand that Joe played in a recent live tournament. Finally, Irish podcast listener Bennet Griffin goes for glory in 'Superfan vs Stapes', answering questions about the 1969 movie 'The Wild Bunch'. Please subscribe and join the #PITE community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe recap a hugely successful #EPTBarcelona, re-living the highs (an incredible turnout, a series of entertaining live streams) and the lows (James getting sick, lightning striking the venue). Plus, they speak to the winner of the record-breaking EPT Main Event, Italian pro Giuliano Bendinelli. Joe also talks about his post-Barcelona vacation with Ben and Marle Spragg, and the guys look ahead to the 2022 World Championship of Online Poker: previewing their cards-up coverage of some of the biggest #WCOOP tournaments, including the 12 new World Championship events. Finally, Reece Poole from the UK is tested on his knowledge of the UEFA Women's Championship as he tries to win a $109 #SundayMillion ticket in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe and join the #PITE community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

In their final summer special, James and Joe look ahead to #EPTBarcelona 2022. The guys will be kept busy, with eight days of live streaming from the birthplace of the European Poker Tour (August 14th – 21st on the PokerStars Twitch and YouTube channels). On this podcast, they're joined by a Barcelona veteran: a player who won the first ever EPT Seniors Event and made the final table of the #EPT100 Main Event in 2014, before going on to win #EPTPrague and the WSOP Main. Yes, Hossein Ensan makes his first ever appearance on #PITE to discuss his poker career. Elsewhere, James and Joe find time to talk about what they've been up to in the summer months: a combination of poker, comedy, overseas travel and mingling with YouTube stars. Please subscribe and join the podcast community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord). Next episode: Friday September 2nd.

In their second summer special, James and Joe are joined by actor and poker fan Nick Peine ('A.P. Bio', 'Office Christmas Party') to review a gambling-themed film from 1955. Yes, it's a Poker Movie Monday (on a Wednesday, released on a Thursday), with an in-depth review of 'The Man with the Golden Arm', starring Frank Sinatra, Kim Novak and Eleanor Parker. The film is also the subject of this week's Superfan quiz, as long-time listener Stefan-Razvan Ens tries to win THREE #SundayMillion tickets. Please subscribe to #PITE and join the podcast community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

In the first of their #PITE summer specials, James and Joe tackle the serious subject of cheating in online poker. This comes in the wake of some high-profile cases involving the use of real-time assistance software. So, how big a problem is it? What other methods are players using to try to gain an unfair advantage? How does Stars stop people breaking the rules? These questions are directed to Francis Lincoln, Head of Game Integrity at PokerStars. Think of him as the Chief of the Poker Police! Francis talks in detail about his remit, and how his team combines advanced tech and human detective work to keep the online tables safe and fair. If you'd like to hear more from Francis – and have a specific subject you'd like him to address – please join the podcast community on Discord (psta.rs/Discord) and submit your question.

James and Joe reflect on the changes announced to the #SundayMillion and the first few days of the #WSOP in Las Vegas, before focussing on #PSPC 2023. They look ahead to the PokerStars Players No Limit Hold'em Championship – now confirmed for January in the Bahamas – with a summary of what's happened so far (including the announcement and postponement), details of how to qualify, and an interview with a recent #PlatinumPass winner: Colm Chan from Ireland. Plus, with highlights of the first PSPC about to appear on the PokerStars YouTube channel (new episode every Friday), the guys chat to a qualifier who's been there, seen it, done it. Toke Gerding Jensen, the former Superfan who won a Platinum Pass on #PITE, talks about playing the PSPC in January 2019 and featuring in the first couple of TV shows. Finally, Marco Biondi from Scotland chooses the Monaco Grand Prix as his specialist subject in this week's edition of 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe to the podcast and join the conversation on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

With the Spring Championship of Online Poker now in the books, James and Joe present their #SCOOP 2022 recap. They're joined by Howard Swains from the PokerStars Blog to provide the key stats and headline stories from the series. Plus, they talk to the champion of the $10k Main Event: 'WElcomeINnferNO'. The Austria-based player bested a field of 654 to win the trophy and $1.1m. In addition, the guys speak to Canada-based streamer Rayan 'Beriuzy' Chamas who was a fan favourite during the live coverage of the Main Event on Twitch and YouTube, and eventually placed 10th. Finally, Chris Robinson from Canada answers questions about the history of the World Series of Poker in his quest to win a #SundayMillion ticket in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe to #PITE and join the conversation on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

It's an incredibly busy month for James and Joe. They've returned from Monaco, having streamed five days of the PokerStars EPT Presented by Monte-Carlo Casino, and are now half way through the 2022 Spring Championship of Online Poker. They recap #EPTMonteCarlo and enlist the services of the PokerStars Blog's Howard Swains to provide a mid-series #SCOOP update. Plus, there's the chance to hear from a couple of recent SCOOP winners: Fintan 'easywithaces' Hand and Tobias 'Senkel92' Leknes. Finally, Jordan McKnight from Canada competes for a #SundayMillion ticket in a basketball-themed edition of 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe to #PITE and join the conversation on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe are heading to Monaco for the first time in three years for the PokerStars EPT Presented by Monte-Carlo Casino. They reveal they'll be hosting five consecutive days of live coverage (on Twitch and YouTube) and talk through the streaming schedule (Tuesday 3rd – Saturday 7th May). The guys are also joined by Masato Yokosawa, the Japanese poker player and vlogger who was recently named Favourite Poker Personality at the Global Poker Awards. He discusses the growing popularity of poker in his home country and reflects on playing EPT Prague last month. Finally, Charles Allen from Canada tries to win a #SundayMillion ticket, answering questions about 'The Book of Boba Fett' in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe to #PITE and join the conversation on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe are back from their Easter break with an extended episode, unveiling the streaming schedule for #SCOOP 2022, the new dates and venue for the second #PSPC and a couple of additional European Poker Tour stops. They recap the recent #UKIPTLondon festival, with Joe revealing what happened on and off the felt (minor spoiler alert: there's a hot tub involved). Plus, high-performance expert Coach Bahman joins the guys to discuss his work helping high stakes players and the new partnership between Raise Your Edge and PokerStars Learn. In addition, there are plenty of #FunFacts about a different type of coach! Finally, a #SundayMillion ticket is up for grabs, as Scott Barnett from the UK is quizzed on the sports comedy 'Slap Shot' in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please subscribe to #PITE and join the conversation on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe are joined by the reigning No Limit Hold'em world champion, 2021 WSOP Main Event winner Koray Aldemir. In addition to talking about his start in poker and his epic victory in Vegas, Koray answers YOUR questions (thanks to everyone who posted on Discord: psta.rs/Discord) and shares his expert knowledge of bears. Elsewhere, Joe prepares for his trip to England for #UKIPTLondon. He'll be playing a few tournaments at The Hippodrome. Plus, there's the chance to meet both podcast hosts at the special movie screening taking place on Wednesday 6th April. Finally, Scott Cooper from Australia gets his shot at 'Superfan vs Stapes', answering questions about the film 'Croupier'. #PITE is now taking an Easter break, and will be back at the end of April. Between now and then, please subscribe to the show.

Since their last podcast, James and Joe have been to #EPTPrague, where they streamed five days of the Main Event, and they've hosted live coverage of the final day of the epic #SundayMillionAnniversay. They recap both tournaments on this week's episode, with a particular focus on the long-awaited return of the European Poker Tour, and an interview with the online qualifier who claimed the Prague Main Event title: Grzegorz Glowny. Plus, #PITE listener Danny Hobo tries to win a #SundayMillion ticket answering questions about Maria Konnikova's book 'The Biggest Bluff' in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please don't forget to subscribe, and join the conversation on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

By the time you listen to this podcast, James and Joe will be in Prague for the European Poker Tour. It's their first live event since…EPT Prague in December 2019! They talk about some of the early results from the festival and preview their five-day live stream of the Main Event (starting on Saturday 12th March on the PokerStars Twitch and YouTube channels). There's also a deep dive into Hold'em strategy on this week's episode, as Joe receives coaching from Andrew Brokos, one of the hosts of the Thinking Poker podcast. Andrew is set a near-impossible challenge: make Stapes a better poker player in 30 minutes. Finally, Superfan Jack O'Neill tries to win a #SundayMillionAnniversary ticket answering questions about 'The Mandalorian'. Please don't forget to subscribe, and join the conversation on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

It's the latest #PITE Poker Movie Monday on a Wednesday (in this case, recorded on a Thursday and released on a Friday). James and Joe finally take an in-depth look at 'The Card Counter', starring Oscar Isaac, Tiffany Haddish, Tye Sheridan and Willem Dafoe. It's a film that's been discussed on the podcast MANY times, as Joe served as the poker consultant during pre-production and principal photography, and, ahead of its theatrical release last year, the boys interviewed writer-director Paul Schrader. For this episode, they're joined by producer Lauren Mann. Plus, Super High Roller reviewer Sam Greenwood makes a brief return to the show, breaking down the film's main Hold'em hand. And Joe's mother gives Sight and Sound magazine a run for its money, providing top-level analysis via a series of text messages. Finally, Sveinn Dal Bjornsson from Iceland is our 'Card Counter' Superfan, competing for a #SundayMillionAnniversary ticket and some PokerStars swag. Please don't forget to subscribe, and join the conversation on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

In an unexpected twist, #PITE has been named Best Podcast of 2021 at the 3rd Global Poker Awards in Las Vegas. Joe was at Aria to collect the award (and promptly misplace it) and takes great delight in making this episode a victory lap for the entire production team. The boys discuss some of the other winners at Friday's ceremony, and are joined by Veronica Brill, recipient of the Charitable Initiative Award. She explains how she earned the accolade and talks about her life pre and post 'Postlegate'. Meanwhile, two listeners provide a ruling on Joe's friendship dilemma, and James takes a jump to the left as he quizzes Wayne Gartner from Australia about 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show' in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please don't forget to subscribe, and join the conversation on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

Joe is on the road again: after scoring tickets to the Super Bowl in Los Angeles, he flew to Florida for a special NASCAR charity event, before heading to Las Vegas for the 3rd Global Poker Awards. On this week's episode, the boys are joined by Eric Danis – President of the Global Poker Index – to preview the awards and run through the nominees in the key categories. Elsewhere, Judges James and Joe provide a ruling on a tournament payout-related controversy, and Cam Travis from Ohio picks The Beatles as his specialist subject in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please don't forget to subscribe, and join the conversation on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

After an unplanned one-week hiatus (James explains what happened), the boys return with a brief recap of Joe's latest live poker adventures and their long-awaited deep dive into recent films and TV shows. Canadian high stakes reg Sam Greenwood plays the role of Super High Roller reviewer as he talks about some of the stuff he's watched in the last few months, while James and Joe break down the Netflix movies 'The Power of the Dog' and 'Don't Look Up' and the Disney+ shows 'Hawkeye' and 'The Book of Boba Fett'. Finally, Rory Herbert – who works as a script supervisor in the film and TV industry – competes for a #SundayMillionAnniversay ticket in 'Superfan vs Stapes', answering questions about 'The Martian'. Please don't forget to subscribe, and join the conversation on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

With their deep dive into recent movies and TV shows pushed back a week, James and Joe invite poker pro turned trivia maestro Alex Jacob onto the podcast to talk poker and game shows. Alex is a WSOP and WPT finalist who won the United States Poker Championship in 2006. He later appeared as a contestant on 'Jeopardy!', winning six times and taking down the Tournament of Champions. Meanwhile, long-time #PITE listener and live stream viewer Harley Jones hopes to win a quiz of his own, answering questions about the 2004 Boston Red Sox in this week's edition of 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please don't forget to subscribe, and join the conversation on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

The nominations for the 2021 #GlobalPokerAwards have been announced, and #PITE is in the running for Best Podcast! Joe has also been nominated for Best Broadcaster. Meanwhile the winners of the GPI Players of the Year have already been revealed, and the boys are joined on this week's episode by the best performing female player of 2021, Nadya Magnus. Nadya was a Loose Cannon on the first season of 'The PokerStars Big Game'. She shares her (bittersweet) memories of appearing on that show, and talks about what it takes to win POY and who she thinks might be next year's champion. Finally, Jason Williams from the UK picks 'American Pie' as his specialist subject in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please don't forget to subscribe, and join the conversation on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

For their first podcast of 2022, James and Joe recap some of the poker headlines from the last few weeks, including the winner of #Dare2Stream, the amazing accomplishment of the #EPTOnline Main Event champion, the standout moments from the #WinterSeries, and the story of the trio of players / content creators who've bought a poker room in Texas. Yes, there are three guests on this week's show, as Doug Polk, Brad Owen and Andrew Neeme discuss their new business venture. They also take part in one of the most ill-conceived, poorly-executed (and entertaining) quizzes in #PITE history. Talking of quizzes, Joanne Kane from Canada is given the chance to win a #SundayMillion ticket, as she answers questions about the 1995 movie 'Casino' in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please don't forget to subscribe, and join the conversation on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

James and Joe conclude their mini-series of episodes celebrating 20 years of PokerStars by talking to one of the most successful players of all time. Erik Seidel makes his first ever appearance on a poker podcast, discussing his origin story, the boom years, his dislike of playing Hold'em on TV, his depiction in 'Rounders', his pivotal role in Maria Konnikova's poker career, his cameo appearance in 'Curb Your Enthusiasm', and how he stays competitive in an ever-evolving game. Meanwhile, the boys draw a line under the various activities that have accompanied #TheBig20, including the Rewind series, the $5m guaranteed Finale and the Players Awards. Finally, Chad McVean from Canada makes a return appearance, competing in 'Superfan vs Stapes' for the second time. It's a very special edition of this contest – themed around PokerStars history – with a very special prize. #PITE returns in January 2022. Please don't forget to subscribe, and please join the conversation on Discord (psta.rs/Discord).

The celebrations continue for #TheBig20, as James and Joe mark 20 years of PokerStars with a series of special episodes. After an update on the Rewind tournaments, and a preview of their Finale stream – where the winners of the Players Awards will be revealed (still time to vote, by the way, at the PokerStars Blog) – they discuss some of the celebrities who've been associated with Stars over the last two decades, and speak to a man who's played in several online charity games in recent months: Jon Hamm, the award-winning actor best known for the TV drama 'Mad Men'. Jon talks about first discovering poker and playing in home games with other actors in LA. Plus, he confirms that he does not play on PokerStars with a Don Draper avatar! Finally, Michael Park from Canada is tested on his knowledge of Korean food in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. As mentioned on the show, there is a very special Superfan segment on next week's podcast. To apply, please join the PokerStars Discord server (psta.rs/Discord). Also, please don't forget to subscribe to #PITE.

James and Joe continue to celebrate #TheBig20 – the 20th anniversary of PokerStars – with a series of episodes looking back at two decades of poker history. In this podcast, they talk to pros Antonio Esfandiari and Maria Ho about the boom years and their respective careers and mainstream media appearances. Plus, they discuss the creation of two popular poker shows: 'The Big Game' (2010-11) and 'Shark Cage' (2014-15), and ask Antonio and Maria to share their memories of playing on TV. There's also a summary of the prizes awarded so far in the Big 20 Rewind series, a reminder to vote in the Big 20 Players Awards (via the PokerStars Blog), and Princeton student Andrew Tufillaro picks US history as his specialist subject in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please share your own memories of the early years of PokerStars on Discord (psta.rs/Discord). Also, please don't forget to subscribe to #PITE.

James and Joe are celebrating #TheBig20 – the 20th anniversary of PokerStars – with a series of episodes looking back at two decades of poker history. In this show, they talk about the launch of PokerStars in 2001 with one of the first people hired by founders Isai and Mark Scheinberg: poker player, podcaster, MMA fighter and former customer support head Terrence Chan. They also discuss the birth of the European Poker Tour in 2004 with the original voice of the EPT: radio and TV presenter Colin Murray. Plus, they catch up with one of the OGs of the tour: seven-time EPT finalist and serial casher Luca Pagano. Please share your own memories of the early years of PokerStars on Discord (psta.rs/Discord). While you're there, feel free to submit your Superfan application. Also, please don't forget to subscribe to #PITE.

This episode of the podcast is dedicated to #CasinoRoyale, the film in which James Bond plays poker. To celebrate the movie's 15th anniversary, James and Joe take a retrospective look at Daniel Craig's first outing as Bond, and debate whether it's the best film in the series. They also break down 'Casino Royale's Hold'em scenes with the movie's poker advisor Dr Tom Sambrook, including analysis of the (controversial) final hand, courtesy of Tom's notes from the shoot, detailing stack sizes, positions and the (never before revealed) pre-flop and flop action! Plus, 007 #PITE listeners win 007 prizes for posting their reviews of the film on Discord (psta.rs/Discord), and it's the subject of this week's Superfan quiz, as Liam Devine from the UK aims to win a tournament ticket and PokerStars merch. Please don't forget to subscribe.

Live poker (yes, it's a thing again) is the theme of this week's episode. James was recently at The Hippodrome in London for a special True Geordie event, while Joe is in Las Vegas to play some turbo tournaments, including the World Series of Poker Mini Main Event. He's in town with a few players from his home game, including actress Beth Hall, best known for her roles in 'Mad Men' and 'Mom'. She's a huge poker fan, and joins the boys to talk TV shows and card games. Plus, Joe reveals an interesting Beth-related poker accomplishment (if you're able to verify that this is a #FunFact, or prove that it's a #FakeFact, please let us know: psta.rs/Discord). Finally, Lucas Durney from the UK goes for gold – actually a #SundayMillion ticket – in an Olympics-themed edition of 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please don't forget to subscribe to #PITE.

It's a streamer special, with two members of Team Pro making guest appearances. First up, Georgina 'GJReggie' James, who's just launched the #Dare2Stream competition, followed by Tom 'Majin' Hayward who recently anchored cards-up coverage of the #BountyBuilderSeries Main Event. James and Joe also find themselves 'Running AMOQ', as they answer one of YOUR questions from Discord (psta.rs/Discord), while John Lemke – an American living in Germany – picks a terrible Marvel movie as his specialist subject in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Finally, the boys close out the show with a spoiler-filled review of the new James Bond film #NoTimeToDie. There'll be more Bond on #PITE in the coming weeks, as the podcast celebrates the 15th Anniversary of #CasinoRoyale, as well as the 20th Anniversary of PokerStars. Please don't forget to subscribe.

After discussing Phil Hellmuth's behaviour at the World Series of Poker, James and Joe launch into a poker movie double bill. One great. One…not so great. They revisit 'California Split' (first reviewed on Episode 156) in the company of the film's writer, Joseph Walsh. Then, it's all aboard the 'Money Plane', easily one of the worst gambling-themed motion pictures ever made. But it gets a fair amount of airtime (pun intended), as it's the subject of this week's Superfan quiz, with Brian Fahy from Ireland hoping to win a couple of #SundayMillion tickets. Please join the #PITE community at psta.rs/Discord, and don't forget to subscribe.

As the World Series of Poker gets underway in Las Vegas, James and Joe are joined by #WSOP legend Norman Chad: long-time TV presenter and part-time stud player. Norm talks about being involved with the WSOP for nearly two decades, how the poker world has changed in that time, and his experience playing the $25k HORSE event at this year's series. There's more reminiscing on the podcast, as the boys tell some behind-the-scenes stories from an EPT of yesteryear. Plus, judgement is passed on a player who doesn't know the difference between trips and a set in 'Can I Get a Ruling?' and 'Ted Lasso' fan Leo O'Rourke competes for a #SundayMillion ticket in 'Superfan vs Stapes'. Please join the #PITE community at psta.rs/Discord, and don't forget to subscribe.

Joe has been dropping Paul Schrader's name for the better part of two years now. Finally, the writer-director of 'The Card Counter' makes an appearance on the #PITE podcast. As James says on the show, Paul is one of the filmmakers who transformed American cinema in the 1970s, writing the screenplays for Martin Scorsese's 'Taxi Driver' and 'Raging Bull', before going on to direct 'American Gigolo' and 'Cat People'. Paul talks about his latest film, and why he wanted the protagonist to be a card player. He also discusses working with Joe on making the Hold'em scenes authentic, his own experiences playing poker, the music in his movies, and his memories of filming 'Mishima: A Life in Four Chapters' and the 'Exorcist' prequel. 'Mishima' is actually this week's Superfan subject, with Marius Vitas from London hoping to win #SundayMillion tickets and PokerStars merch. Join the conversation at psta.rs/Discord, and please don't forget to subscribe.

James and Joe run through some recent developments in the poker world, including the sighting of an EPT champion at the US Open Tennis final and the signing of Benjamin 'bencb789' Rolle to the Team Pro roster. Ben is the guest on this week's podcast, and talks about his career as a player and coach, what makes a good poker teacher (and student), and how he tried and failed to become a PokerStars ambassador several years ago! Following their interview with Ben, the boys respond to a question on Discord, and go behind-the-scenes on the recent #WCOOP streams, revealing how they prepare for a broadcast and what happens in the minutes/hours leading up to the stream going live. Finally, Doyle Brunson's classic poker strategy book 'Super/System' is the subject of this week's Superfan quiz, with Demetrios Lambros from Atlanta, Georgia competing for prizes. You can apply to be on the show by joining the #PITE community at psta.rs/Discord. Also, please subscribe.