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What does poker have to do with ancestral wisdom? As it turns out, everything. In this episode of Everyday Ancestral, I sit down with Martin Jacobson, a former chef turned 2014 World Series of Poker Champion, to explore the deeply rooted qualities that make a great poker player and how those same traits are vital to our daily lives.
Martin's story is anything but conventional. From his early days working in Michelin-starred kitchens to becoming one of the most respected names in professional poker, Martin shares how stillness, patience, and resilience shaped both his game and his life. We talk about his climb to the top, the mindset that helped him win $10 million, and what happens after you’ve achieved what most people only dream about.
Buried under pressure and scrambling for clarity? This conversation is a powerful reminder that your ability to stay calm under stress, separate emotion from logic, and trust long-term strategy can change your entire trajectory.
Why This Matters to You
Feeling overwhelmed by decision fatigue? Martin shares how learning to separate emotion from strategy, especially in high-pressure environments can sharpen your clarity and lead to better outcomes.
Stuck thinking short-term? Martin explains why focusing on the process instead of just the outcome leads to sustainable growth, whether you're at the poker table or navigating everyday life.
Wrestling with a lack of motivation? After hitting the pinnacle of success, Martin still had to figure out what drove him. His honesty about navigating post-win identity crises will resonate if you're redefining your goals.
Seeking more presence? Martin connects the dots between presence in poker and presence in parenting. It’s a skill that benefits both your personal and professional life.
Struggling to build resilience? His reflections on bouncing back from losses and staying consistent with routines, like exercise, meditation, and sleep are a masterclass in staying grounded when life gets chaotic.
Actionable Advice
Train your decision-making muscle: Focus on making sound choices regardless of the outcome. Poker teaches that process matters more than results.
Stick to your rituals: Build consistent routines before high-stakes situations. Martin swears by exercise, nutrition, and meditation before games.
Study and adapt: Don’t just rely on talent. Use tools (even AI!) to refine your strategy and keep evolving.
Use setbacks as fuel: When you’re struggling, double down on learning. Martin used tough stretches to rebuild his focus and motivation.
Don’t rush the reset: If you’re coming off a loss or burnout, give yourself space to recover before jumping back in.
Martin Jacobson started his professional life as a chef with aspirations of working in Michelin-starred kitchens. When a job offer in Spain unexpectedly fell through, he leaned into his hobby, poker and began playing more seriously. Early wins gave him the confidence to pursue it professionally. Just a few years later, he claimed the title of 2014 World Series of Poker Champion. Today, Martin continues to play competitively while also angel investing and coaching others, balancing his love for the game with life as a new father.
Links and Resources to Explore
Listen to the Full Episode – Available now on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube.
If you’ve ever felt stuck or scattered, let this episode be your permission slip to pause, reset, and think long-term. The same skills that make someone an elite poker player, calm, clarity, and discipline are the very ones that lead to a better life.Tune in and start playing your own game with more intention.
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