Podcast ep12: Kevin Rabichow / A Career in Coaching and Heads Up

Kevin Rabichow joins Jonathan Jaffe to talk about the overlap between elite poker coaching and high-level play. Kevin shares his path as a heads-up specialist and coach, offering insights into strategic thinking, common misconceptions in poker, and the differences between being a great player and a great coach. He discusses his coaching philosophy, how students can evaluate their progress, and what to look for when choosing a coach. The conversation also touches on the mental side of the game, including managing instincts, thinking probabilistically, and recovering from costly mistakes. Check out Kevin’s coaching program at ⁠https://www.kevinrabichow.com/headsup⁠ Follow for new episodes every month. Learn more at GTOLAB.com. CHAPTERS: 0:00 Intro 2:00 When Jonathan first heard of Kevin 3:57 Game Flow Analysis 14:45 Coaching Questions: What's the Difference Between Being a Great Player and a Great Coach? 17:40 How Blunt is Kevin When Students Goals Seem Too Lofty? 19:05 What are the Worst Misconceptions in Poker Today? 25:10 Thoughts on Poker Coaches Who Sell Subpar Products 30:52 Coaching Hypothetical: Helping a Live Player Climb Stakes 34:14 Thoughts on Guys Studying A Lot Just Before WSOP: Offseason 41:38 Learn To Love It. 45:26 Database Reviews 48:35 What Should Students Look Out For When Choosing a Coach? 58:50 How Long to Stay With a Coach 60:05 Cooperation and Game Theory: Thinking Probabilistically 1:08:33 Making Sense of Instinct and Bias 1:18:07 What Separates Heads Up Poker 1:28:42 Questions About Heads Up 1:34:25 Biggest Differences in Meta Game in the Future 1:39:45 “The Game” 1:43:38 Hand Analysis 2:00:12 Moving Forward After Costly Mistakes 2:03:30 Recommendations