Show Notes
Welcome to Episode 178! MTT Coach Gareth James and Peak Performance Mindset Coach Dr. Tricia Cardner are back discussing all things poker strategy & mindset. In this episode, Gareth makes a big announcement and then the hosts answer a listener question about how to focus when there is so much to study and limited time and ADHD tendencies.
Topics discussed include:
The ADHD traits that can make study challenging Ways to prioritize study materials Productivity strategies including: time blocking, priority pyramids, the 80/20 rule and pomodoros Several book recommendations with a bit of discussion about each.
Books mentioned in this episode:
Atomic Habits: https://amzn.to/3qOnRJs Deep Work: https://amzn.to/3qO0kZ6 Digital Minimalism: https://amzn.to/45ttpIz
Resources:
Preorder Gareth’s book The Final Table: https://amzn.to/3ZOjCcV Order Purposeful Practice for Poker: https://amzn.to/41QBGVC Order Positive Poker: https://amzn.to/430foBf Order Peak Poker Performance: https://amzn.to/453miWX
Check out Dr. Cardner’s Progressive Relaxation Video (short version): https://youtu.be/pBbuwcFbfFA
Dr. Cardner’s < 60 second video with the instructions for tactical breathing: https://youtube.com/shorts/bMfR8nwQdto?feature=share
Check out Gareth’s program Train and Play Like the Pros that will prepare you for large MTT series (both online and live): https://www.mttpokerschool.com/
Sign up for Tricia’s Mindset Matters Newsletter: https://www.drtriciacardner.com/
Want us to answer your poker question? Post it in Dr. Tricia’s private Facebook group! Join here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/PokerMindsetMastery
Or in Gareth’s private Facebook group! Join here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/pokerprofits
Or Tweet us: @drtriciacardner @MTTpokerschool @PokerOnTheMind
More from Poker On The Mind Podcast
In this solo voice note, Dr. Tricia shares her thoughts on one of the biggest stories in modern poker history—Leo Margets making the final table of the 2025 WSOP Main Event. Tricia breaks down why this milestone matters far beyond the headline and explores the deeper psychological impact of: Representation and identity in poker Long-term resilience and performance How moments like this shape the future of the game What you can learn from Leo’s composure and mindset
In this episode, Gareth and Tricia tackle a timely listener question: What do most players get wrong when preparing for the World Series of Poker (WSOP)? If you’re gearing up for the WSOP (or any major poker series) and want to avoid common pitfalls, this conversation is for you. They discuss: Why tying your self-worth to poker results is so dangerous: How linking your identity to wins and losses leads to emotional swings and burnout – and ways to keep your confidence steady regardless of outcomes.
In this episode, Gareth and Tricia dive into a powerful listener question from Martin—a poker player with ADHD—who’s struggling to find motivation and structure for his study and play routines. If you've ever wrestled with procrastination, guilt, or balancing poker with real-life responsibilities, this conversation is for you. They explore: Why tight deadlines help some players (especially those with ADHD) hyperfocus Parkinson’s Law and how it impacts poker study and productivity How dopamine dysregulation influences motivation and attention Gamified study tips like “poker sprints” and “beat-the-clock” sessions The power of body doubling, study groups, and external accountability Why guilt and perfectionism may be the real blockers—and how to reframe your mindset Finding the right balance between poker, work, and family life (and why it’s okay for that balance to shift over time) Whether you have ADHD or not, this episode is full of actionable insights on how to design a routine that works for your brain—and your life.
In this solo voice note, Dr. Tricia Cardner breaks down Phil Hellmuth’s recent announcement that he’s skipping the 2025 WSOP Main Event—claiming it’s become too much of a mental grind.
Are you into this idea? Comment on Spotify or tag @gazelligpoker or @drtriciacardner on X and let us know.