Annie Duke is one of the definitive poker players of our time. A World Series of Poker Winner (WSoP), Duke also held the record for most money won on the WSoP tournament by a woman player until only a few years ago.
In this video with BigThink, her discussion focuses primarily on her time at the table and the respect (or lack of it) she receives as a woman, but there are some crucial messages to be found within for anyone striving for excellence in their field.
Early on, Duke highlights the importance of game theory: “It’s not about winning right now. It’s about making the right decisions so you can win in the long run”.
Ultimately, the interview is all about working with what you have; a motto that has seen Duke become the ‘Duchess of Poker’, as well as a prominent philanthropist.
Questions:
00:00 – What does it take to be a good poker player?
03:35 – How much time did you put in before you got good?
05:20 – What was the best advice you were given?
07:01 – What was the worst advice you were given?
*Note: Due to an editing issue, Duke’s answer is repeated from the previous question.*
08:43 – What obstacles have you faced as a female poker player?
12:47 – How do you get back at (abusive players)?
14:40 – On being called a ‘lucky’ bitch.
16:43 – On poker’s four kinds of men.
20:05 – How to win at rock, paper, scissors.