Welcome to this week's edition of the Ol' Boy Podcast Blog, where we unravel the fascinating conversation between host Chad Ward and Jared Bleznick, a professional poker player and co-owner of Bleznick Enterprise. Jared's insights bridge the intense world of high-stakes poker and the thriving industry of sports card collecting. 

From a Passionate Start to a Legendary Win 

Jared Bleznick's journey in poker started from a young age, inspired by the famed victory of Chris Moneymaker in the 2003 World Series of Poker. At just 16, Jared began playing with friends and soon moved on to online poker. Despite early losses, the thrill and challenge of the game hooked him. 

Jared revealed a pivotal moment when he made a substantial amount of money in his first semester of college, winning $50,000 online. This proved to him that his passion for poker could truly pay off. His recent $50,000 high-roller win at the World Series of Poker, where he secured his first bracelet, marks a milestone in his career. 

Mastering the Mental Game 

Jared spoke about the psychological aspect of high-stakes poker. Contrary to the stereotype, Jared highlighted the importance of knowing when to stop. His strategy includes avoiding playing every day and taking substantial breaks when facing losses. "The biggest problem with these pros is they never quit," Jared explained, emphasizing the crucial role of discipline in avoiding financial ruin. 

An intriguing aspect of his strategy is the idea of ‘running it once.’ Jared believes it pushes players to their limits and can make opponents uncomfortable, an advantage he's keen to exploit. 

Origins in Gambling and the Influence of Family 

Jared’s upbringing played a significant role in shaping his interest in gambling. His mother, an avid gambler, even ran poker games at home. These early experiences, though initially detested, unconsciously laid the foundation for his career. Jared rounded off by touching on the financial and emotional struggles in his teenage years and how poker became the first thing he felt proficient in. 

Becoming the Trendsetter in Poker 

Jared takes pride in his instinctual understanding of poker, often finding himself ahead of the curve. Years ago, the tactics Jared used were considered unconventional; now, they’re standard practice. "I was always ahead of everyone," Jared remarked. His intuitive approach, coupled with a balanced reliance on mathematical principles, sets him apart, making him a formidable force on the felt. 

Evolution into Card Collecting and Business Ventures 

Transitioning from poker, Jared’s conversation with Chad delved into his flourishing card-collecting business. This venture was born out of a lifelong hobby and a gap he identified in the market. His company, Bleznick Enterprise, revolutionized the concept of sports card breaking by incorporating entertainment and community aspects, reminiscent of old chat rooms but with a modern twist. 

Navigating Business with Fanatics and Beyond 

The podcast also shed light on the evolving landscape of the card-collecting industry, highlighting partnerships and innovations introduced by Fanatics. Jared praised their efforts in improving product quality and market engagement. He mentioned how collaborative efforts, like the million-dollar break event at the Fanatics Fest, not only enhance the collector's experience but significantly elevate industry standards. 

Looking Ahead: The Future of Poker and Card Collecting 

When asked about the state of the two industries, Jared expressed confidence in their growth trajectories but acknowledged that constant evolution and adaptability remain vital. His emphasis on the fan’s experience, product quality, and market dynamics underscores Jared’s holistic understanding of the industry. 

Finally, Jared shed some light on his penchant for collecting, admitting that while he has veered away from personal collecting to avoid conflicts of interest, he remains deeply passionate about specific athletes, notably Anthony Edwards. 

Conclusion 

Jared Bleznick’s journey, from battling it out in high-stakes poker rooms to revolutionizing the sports card market, is a testament to his visionary thinking and enduring passion. Whether you’re an aspiring poker player or a budding card collector, Jared’s story provides invaluable insights into the intricacies of these fascinating worlds. 

Stay Tuned 

Stay updated with the Ol' Boy Podcast for more riveting discussions, and be sure to follow Jared’s ventures for a blend of entertainment, expertise, and community-driven experiences in the ever-evolving domains of poker and sports card collecting. 

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