Hot Hands and Cold Decks: Balancing Strategy and Psychology in Poker

Moderator: Jennifer Shahade

Panelists: Nate Silver, Alexandra Botez, Xuan Liu

Poker is a game of skill, strategy, and psychology—but how do players navigate the tension between mathematical precision and the unpredictable swings of variance? This panel explores the interplay between optimal game theory strategy and the mental resilience required to handle hot streaks and brutal downswings. Experts and poker content creators will discuss the impact of solvers, intuition, and behavioral psychology on decision-making at the highest levels. Whether you're a data-driven grinder or a feel-based player, this conversation will reveal what it takes to stay sharp in a game where both skill and mindset determine long-term success.