Have you ever needed a toaster that also walks your dog? Yeah, us neither (well, maybe Jon). But you know what you do need? Optimove’s awesome CRM marketing solution. Also, you definitely need to check out Clarion Gaming’s cool network and brands. They actually make useful stuff for gamers!

How has the integration of AI changed the landscape of online poker? What is the future of poker in a world where technology, regulation, and player behavior are constantly evolving?

In today’s episode (The Gambling Files RTFM 180), Fintan and Jon talk with poker legend Chris Straghalis about the evolution of poker, both online and live. They delve into the impact of technology, including AI and bots, on the game, while highlighting how poker's unique blend of skill and luck has contributed to its enduring appeal. Chris is the Director of Online Poker Experience at PokerStars.

In a nutshell:

* Online poker faces unique challenges due to regulations, player liquidity, and the rise of AI tools.

* Live poker is experiencing a resurgence, with record-breaking events happening worldwide.

* The global player pool in online poker has shrunk due to the segmentation of regulated markets.

* Bots and AI are a growing challenge in online poker, but platforms like PokerStars are working hard to maintain fair play.

* The future of poker lies in embracing new formats and incorporating more excitement, like quick outcomes and high-risk, high-reward opportunities.

* Modern poker players increasingly focus on their physical and mental health to maintain an edge in the game, with many adopting strict routines and coaching.

Choice quotes:

* Fintan Costello: “Chris Straghalis is the poker expert's poker expert.”

* Chris Straghalis: “When you're playing a hand of poker, you're telling a story. A poker hand is a beautiful motif for a story. It's got a beginning, a middle, and an end.”

* Chris Straghalis: “Poker is a beautiful game because it's a perfect mix of skill and luck.”

* Fintan Costello: “If you can’t spot the idiot at the poker table, it's probably you.”

* Jon Bruford: “No two games of poker are the same. No two hands of poker are the same.”

Thanks to Chris Straghalis for being on the show!

Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-straghalis-4587974/

Play poker games at PokerStars: https://www.pokerstars.com/

This podcast is presented by Optimove, which is used by 56% of the EGR Power50 to personalize player experiences. Visit Optimove here for more info, not least because it helps to support independent podcasts like ours. Go on, click it! Find out! It’s tremendous.

The Gambling Files podcast delves into the business side of the betting world. Each week, join Jon Bruford and Fintan Costello as they discuss current hot topics with world-leading gambling experts.

Website: https://www.thegamblingfiles.com/

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3A57jkR

Subscribe on Spotify: https://spoti.fi/4cs6ReF

Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGamblingFilesPodcast

Fintan Costello on LinkedIn: