<p>In this episode of <strong>In the Money Poker Podcast</strong>, host sits down with professional tournament poker player <strong>Michael Gabriel</strong> to break down what <em>actually</em> separates players who survive from players who cash.</p><p>Michael walks through the three critical phases of tournament poker:</p><ul><li><p>how to approach the early stages without burning chips,</p></li><li><p>how to shift gears in the middle to avoid getting blinded out, and</p></li><li><p>how to stay aggressive and apply pressure when it matters most near the final table.</p></li></ul><p>This is not about flashy plays or unnecessary risks. It’s about discipline, position, reading opponents, and knowing <em>when</em> to press and <em>when</em> to wait. Michael shares real-world tournament insights, practical decision-making strategies, and the mindset required to stay ahead as the blinds rise and the pressure increases.</p><p>If you play tournament poker or want to think like someone who consistently makes deep runs, this episode will change how you approach the game.</p><p><br></p>