Episode 124: The Elusive Back Room

Midwest Mike recounts a marathon gambling trip, during which he logged an extraordinary 350 hours at the tables in just a month. Far surpassing the 40 hours a month that most consider "full-time" for an advantage player in blackjack . He shares stories of remarkable variance, including wins totaling $52,000 and a grueling $10,000 losing streak, ultimately leaving a casino with a substantial profit despite a "polite back off" after 90 hours of play. The episode shifts focus to networking and the unpredictable value of making connections at the tables. In one memorable story, Mike strikes up a rapport with a fellow player, the CEO of a telecom company and big-time high roller. This relationship brings unexpected opportunities, including personal hosts, comped hotel rooms in Vegas, and recognition at other casinos. Conversations emphasize how genuine connections can create long-term opportunities beyond immediate gains.Mike also describes an awkward and intense experience at a northern Michigan casino, where he deals with odd staff behavior, uncomfortable dealer comments, and ultimately gets trespassed after a significant win. Rather than reacting with hostility, Mike handles the situation with humor and composure, even joking about being a "sex addict" when pushed toward a back room, turning a tense situation into a story of defiance and levity. These stories show the unpredictable nature of casino life, both in terms of profit swings and personal encounters.SHOW NOTES* Midwest Mike updates the audience about his AP play after a long hiatus from the podcast. *Reflection on the grind350 hours of play in a month, average session over 9 hours; balancing time between playing and communication.*MW Mike ended the trip up $52,000.Polite back offs and trespasses become routine; biggest win cited as $30,000 at one property.*Endured a painful $10,000 losing streak, but finished significantly ahead at the end of the run.*Networking StoriesEarly morning session leads to meeting a high roller/CEO packing $20,000 in chips. This chance meeting results in Vegas offers, access to high-limit rooms, private hosts, and VIP treatment.*The importance of rapportnetworking seen as long-term investment, sometimes an immediate game, sometimes a relationship for future value*.Casino Adventures and LessonsNorthern Michigan experience:Awkward staff, personal comments, changing dealers every 30 minutes.Humorous handling of being labeled an addict and dealing with “red flag” status by the pit boss.Final hours—down $7,000, but returns and wins back $7,500 before being trespassed after a dramatic standoff and witty banter with security.*Dealing with casino staff.Strategy and Table DynamicsDiscussion of card counting, betting spreads, and casino countermeasures.Insights into casino myths (e.g., using apps for live card counting) and player stereotypes.Continual act refinements: blending the professionalism of a businessperson with gambling skills. *Reflections and Closing ThoughtsLessons on adapting to casino environments, learning from awkward or tense moments.The long-haul approach to networking and gambling never knowing when a connection will pay off.A closing reminderMaintaining composure, humor, and adaptability are as valuable as the math behind advantage play. This episode is a candid, entertaining look at the unpredictable lifestyle of a professional card counter, emphasizing both the major swings and the subtle, unexpected wins gained through relationships and resilienceLINKSSUBSCRIBE to the Pod!anchor. fm/ta21

In this Episode of our attempt at imaginary radio that we like to call T&A: The Tens and Aces Podcast, we chat with full-time blackjack pro's ZK & Stan The Caddy. They share stories of their life on the road APing and what they've learned along the way. So, if this is the type of thing you'd like to hear, listen up, because we're about to give you some T&A!

This is a bonus episode of the podcast. Something I'm going to call a "Quick hit" episode. These episodes may be about AP play, or they might be about something else random that we feel like talking about. Nothing overtly political or controversial, just some fun bonus conversation for you to listen to while driving to your next stop. Here's the first edition of our "quick hit" episodes. Please let us know whether you like this kind of bonus content. After all, we're here to serve you! Don't worry, there's a full episode of T&A coming soon!

[NEW] Episode with this guest is coming soon! This is being re-released for those who may not have heard this first visit with MW Mike.Summary: In this episode, host Mike AP welcomes Midwest Mike, a rising advantage player (AP) in the blackjack community. Midwest Mike shares his unique journey from Michigan to the West Coast and back, chronicling his rapid ascent in the world of card counting. He discusses his origins, the role of luck versus skill, and his methodical approach to building a bankroll from $10,000 to $78,000. Midwest Mike emphasizes the importance of both technical skill and table presence, highlighting how his outgoing personality and sales background have been as vital as mastering the math. Listeners will hear about the highs and lows of AP life: grueling casino sessions, memorable back-off stories, emotional swings, and the lessons learned from networking with other APs. The episode wraps with advice for new card counters, stressing the value of developing a strong act alongside a winning game for long-term success.Key Takeaways:Midwest Mike started card counting after watching documentaries and training with Blackjack Apprenticeship, initially practicing basic strategy and running count before refining his skills.He built his bankroll from $10k to $78k, experiencing both lucky upswings and significant losses.Early on, his inconsistent bet spread limited his profits until feedback from fellow APs prompted him to be more disciplined with his betting.Midwest Mike credits much of his longevity and success to his extroverted personality and ability to blend in, using his social skills to build rapport with dealers and pit bosses.He details the emotional toll and lifestyle challenges of full-time AP play, especially when traveling.His biggest advice for new players: Work as much on your table act and persona as your technical skills. Being able to interact naturally and confidently is crucial for longevity.Notable Stories:Getting backed off at Snoqualmie before fully mastering the game.Playing marathon sessions and befriending casino staff in Washington.Navigating back-offs in the Midwest, including a memorable $10k losing session.The importance of networking with other APs and learning from their feedback.Advice for Listeners:Perfect your game, but also build your cover and interpersonal skills.Practice playing under real casino conditions, not just at home.Accept the emotional swings and keep a long-term focus.

T&A PODCAST - Part 2: Steve & Kal Thor InterviewThis episode covers dealer mistakes, hole card plays, side bets, backing off strategies, and wild casino stories from experienced advantage players.KEY TOPICSDealer Tells & MistakesDowntown Vegas dealer who'd ask "are you sure?" revealing no made handPost-COVID rusty dealers making obvious peeking errorsLucky Stiff side bet dealer paying unqualified hands (cost casino $3-4K)New casinos = inexperienced dealers = more mistakesSide BetsLucky Ladies +EV at +6.5 true count (Hi-Lo)1000:1 payout for suited queens w/ dealer blackjackTIP: Cash out immediately after big wins to avoid surveillance reviewBacking OffBe unmemorable - don't argue, just leaveStory: Flat-bet to $25 while "ploppy" betting $1000 allowed to continueDealer's response: "We let you bet $1000 - what does that say about your play?"Protecting Your IdentitySlot hand-pay tip: Refuse consent for automatic player's cardScript: "I do not consent to giving my information for creating a player's card"Only legally required to show ID to police, not securityRated vs Unrated DebateSome casinos require cards for premium gamesHard Rock: unrated players limited to 1 hand, 4x table minWeigh short-term comps vs. long-term accessKEY TAKEAWAYSLook beyond blackjack tables for opportunitiesScout new casinos and new table gamesSide bets = high variance despite +EVNetwork with other APs for intelProtect identity strategicallyCONTACT & RESOURCESEmail: [email protected]: r/tapodcastUse code T21 at Blackjack ApprenticeshipSUPPORT THE SHOWSubscribe for $4.99/month: Video episodes, ad-free audio, 3-day early accessMain podcast always 100% FREE!LINK TO SUBSCRIBE#Blackjack #AdvantagePlay #CardCounting #Casino #Gambling

100% optional $4.99/Month all-access T&A Membership LINKhttps://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/ta21/subscribeT&A Podcast - Episode SummaryThis is Part 2 of an interview with Chris, a professional advantage player. The episode dives deep into advanced card counting systems, casino experiences, and practical advice for aspiring advantage players.Chris discusses his transition from the Hi-Lo counting system to the more advanced CAC2 (a level-two count system), explaining the substantial advantages it provides. The conversation covers practical casino experiences, including dealing with trolls online, handling casino cage disputes, tipping strategies, and the realities of professional blackjack play.Hi-Lo vs. CAC2 Comparison: Chris explains why he switched from the popular Hi-Lo system to CAC2, a level-two counting systemPerformance Metrics: CAC2 shows approximately 2-2.5% average advantage compared to Hi-Lo's 0.75-1%Win Rate Differences: On a 6-deck game ($25-$2000 spread), CAC2 produces $611/hour vs Hi-Lo's $177/hourDouble Deck Advantages: On double deck games, CAC2 shows 3.13% EV with $1,640/hour vs Hi-Lo's 3.3% EV with $700/hourSystem Details: CAC2 is available on qfit.com for approximately $100Prediction: Chris believes CAC2 could eventually replace Hi-Lo as the gold standardDealing with inexperienced players asking for free simulation adviceThe importance of investing in proper tools (CVCX, Blackjack Apprenticeship software)Cage Dispute Story: Chris shares a detailed account of refusing to provide ID for a $1,500 cashout (below the $10,000 legal threshold)Importance of knowing your legal rights vs. casino policiesBack Counting: Chris's partner can allegedly back count up to 4 tables simultaneouslyBetting Ramps: Different optimal ramps for Hi-Lo vs. CAC2Session Management: Importance of staying calm but firm in disputesStrategy of betting tips alongside your bet (only costs the EV, not the full amount)Using tips strategically for cover or dealer goodwillDealers often taught basic strategy for games different from what they dealDifferences between tribal and commercial casinosChris's partner is described as "one of the best players still playing in the world"Expertise in multiple advantage play techniques beyond countingImportance of partnering with skilled players"If you can master that count, I think it's actually a great count. And I could foresee in the reasonable future CAC2 actually replacing Hi-Lo as the gold standard of counting."RESOURCES MENTIONEDCVCX (Casino Vérité Blackjack) - Professional simulation softwareBJA PBS (Blackjack Apprenticeship Pro Betting Software) - Recently upgradedCAC2 Counting System - Available at qfit.com for ~$100Norm Wattenberger - Creator of CVCX and owner of qfit.com.

In this transmission of our attempt at imaginary radio, something that we like to call the Tens and Aces podcast, host Mike AP sits down with two blackjack Advantage Players (APs), Steve and Calthor, to share their vastly different journeys in the game.Steve's AP Path: A recently retired 56-year-old, Steve shares how he transformed a 35-year blackjack hobby into a profitable, entertaining side hustle. He discusses his experience as a double deck specialist who plays rated to maximize comps and longevity, and his philosophy of aggressively chasing wins over pure Expected Value (EV)—a strategy the host warns is mathematically risky in the long run.Calthor's AP Rollercoaster: The 25-year-old AP, Calthor, details his rapid rise to becoming a full-time player, including recovering from a traumatic brain injury which he is using card counting to help rebuild neural pathways. He also shares his pivot to the lucrative world of online advantage play (AP) after moving across the country, his success with a coordinated AP team, and a wild story of discovering and exploiting a "broken" online slot machine that earned him over $44,000 before the casino fixed it.AP Strategies and Pitfalls: The conversation covers the pros and cons of playing rated, the danger of new online casino scams and loyalty program changes, and the value of having a trusted AP team.The episode is followed by the host's music selection, including the original track "Counting Cards in the Dark".

Today marks the 5th anniversary of this podcast! Thanks for listening!

In this transmission of our attempt at imaginary radio, something that we like to call the Tens and Aces podcast, host Mike AP sits down with two blackjack Advantage Players (APs), Steve and Calthorpe, to share their vastly different journeys in the game.Steve's AP Path: A recently retired 56-year-old, Steve shares how he transformed a 35-year blackjack hobby into a profitable, entertaining side hustle. He discusses his experience as a double deck specialist who plays rated to maximize comps and longevity, and his philosophy of aggressively chasing wins over pure Expected Value (EV)—a strategy the host warns is mathematically risky in the long run.Calthorpe's AP Rollercoaster: The 25-year-old AP, Calthorpe, details his rapid rise to becoming a full-time player, including recovering from a traumatic brain injury which he is using card counting to help rebuild neural pathways. He also shares his pivot to the lucrative world of online advantage play (AP) after moving across the country, his success with a coordinated AP team, and a wild story of discovering and exploiting a "broken" online slot machine that earned him over $44,000 before the casino fixed it.AP Strategies and Pitfalls: The conversation covers the pros and cons of playing rated, the danger of new online casino scams and loyalty program changes, and the value of having a trusted AP team.The episode is followed by the host's music selection, including the original track "Counting Cards in the Dark".

In this episode of T&A: The Tens and Aces Podcast, host Mike AP sits down with seasoned advantage player Nichols to discuss the realities of playing blackjack professionally, managing variance, and maintaining a strong mindset. They explore practical tips for coping with losing streaks, the importance of perspective, and the mental discipline needed for success. The conversation delves into the psychological traits common among advantage players, such as critical thinking and strategic mindset, as well as ethical considerations and the art of finding loopholes in the game. Additionally, Nichols shares personal insights and reflections on balancing gambling with life. Whether you're a veteran AP or just starting your journey, this episode offers valuable advice and candid stories from the front lines of advantage play.The importance of viewing results in the context of long-term sample sizes.Acknowledging that losses are part of the game but keeping perspective helps maintain morale.The value of zooming out on your results to see the big picture and avoid frustration during losing streaks.Tips for beginners: taking breaks when stressed, testing your game regularly, and avoiding chasing losses.Finding the right balance between playing enough hours and avoiding negative feedback loops.The dangers of overbetting and under betting — sticking to EV positive plays.Maintaining focus on expected value rather than short-term results, especially when gambling is your primary income.The importance of having safety nets, such as savings, to reduce pressure.The mindset of advantage players: strategic, analytical, and sometimes Machiavellian.Psychological traits: giftedness, critical thinking, confidence, and sometimes narcissism.The need to mask true intentions and maintain a work mode during play.Managing interactions with casino staff and security, such as using loopholes related to ID scanners and buy-ins.The role of network knowledge in navigating casino policies and avoiding suspicion.How to handle ID scanners by being creative or blending into crowds.When and how to build chip inventories to avoid suspicious buy-ins.Using perceived action and social presence to reduce detection.Calculations for EV when taking side action (e.g., in craps) without sacrificing profitability.Focus on enjoying life beyond material possessions; avoid the hedonic treadmill.Practical advice on saving money, paying taxes, and planning for long-term financial stability.Emphasizing the importance of relationships and meaningful experiences over material gains.The analogy of AP as similar to strategic game theory, like the Prisoner’s Dilemma, balancing cooperation and self-interest.