What does poker have to do with ancestral health? Turns out, a whole lot. In this episode, I sit down with Martin Jacobson, a former chef who became a professional poker player and won the 2014 World Series of Poker. But this conversation isn’t just about cards or cash. It’s about what it takes to thrive under pressure, stay calm in chaos, and develop the kind of stillness that serves you far beyond the game.
Martin shares the story of how a ghosted job opportunity in Spain launched him into poker full time, why discipline and rational thinking are his lifelines, and how becoming a father has taught him a whole new kind of flexibility. This episode is a deep dive into the mindset of a world-class performer who knows that winning starts with presence—and that stillness is a skill we can all learn.
Key Takeaways
Ancestral Traits in Modern Life – Poker demands qualities like calm, focus, and risk management that mirror our ancestral survival instincts.
Stillness as Strategy – Learning to stay grounded and make clear decisions under pressure is key in poker—and in life.
Discipline Builds Freedom – Consistency and self-awareness are what create real leverage in high-stakes environments.
From Chef to Card Shark – The path to poker started in the kitchen, where Martin honed the ability to work under extreme pressure.
Life After Winning – Even a $10 million prize doesn’t answer life’s bigger questions—it just opens new ones.
Presence Over Perfection – Whether at the poker table or with his new child, Martin finds power in being fully present.
Where to Find Our Guest
Prepare/Perform Course https://martinjacobson.pro/coaching/
Martin Jacobson on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martin.jacobson/
Links & Resources
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