Episode #156: AJ Benza
MAIN TOPIC
AJ Benza calls us all the way from Hollywood as he waits for the unlikely news that GSN will pick up High Stakes Poker, the hugely popular show he co-hosts with Gabe Kaplan, for another season. We talk cards, and he dishes on celebrities, pasta and The Godfather. Click here to listen to the episode.
OTHER TOPICS
World Series: The WSOP has begun. Attendance is breaking records, and pros are faring well. We'll update the blog after each event when the WSOP certifies the results as official.
UB scandal: Many of you asked us to address the latest scandal at Ultimate Bet. We do, but caution again: online poker is the wild, wild West.
PPA ups the ante: The Poker Players Alliance wants to turn its free members into dues-paying members by offering perks for those who do.
Deadbeat dads: If you're a parent who's walked on out child support, shame on you. But if you have no shame, you might want to avoid casinos in Colorado and West Virginia. Those states will look for you there.
Hotline: We have a little fun with Mike from New Jersey, who finds out how hard it is to analyze a hand on the fly.
Tampa Bay Poker Replay: Derby Lane is sending four players to the WSOP. Good luck to them, and all the other bay area players who have or will qualify in local card rooms.
HAND OF THE WEEK
Adam from Dedham, Mass., gives us an excuse to revisit strategy for FullTilt's cheap Knockout tournaments, where you get money for each person you felt. He calls a raise with As-10s, and the flops a royal flush draw. Try to take it down quickly? Or wait to hit your hand, figuring that early in a tournament like this you'll get paid off? He chooses the latter and is put to the test when he doesn't improve on the turn but two players move all-in. He calls, hits and goes on to cash - picking up bounties along the way.
NEXT WEEK'S SHOW
Chris is on the road, and unlike Scott who goes to wild and exotic and different locations on each vacation, he's going back to Connecticut yet again. Let's hope he has time to make it over to Foxwoods and even Mohegan Sun.
- SCOTT
Christopher Cosenza is co-host of the longest running poker podcast on the planet, Ante Up! He started playing poker seriously in 2003 and his favorite players are Phil Ivey and Kenna James, though he tends to act like Phil Hellmuth if you make a bad play against him.
Scott Long, Ante Up!'s other co-host, is the author of the monthly Bet on It column in tbt*. He began gambling way too young (don't tell the fuzz!) and in the seventh grade, named his state "Gambleland" for a school project (State Animal? Loan shark, of course).
What an amazing interview! If his show wasn't canceled before, it's sure to be canceled now. But it's worth it!
You found the one guy funnier than Scott Long.
Get A.J. and Eugene Todd Bro together and you'll win a Peabody.
Posted by: Godard | June 05, 2008 at 08:58 PM
Chris is out of control again with a huge draw. Just call, let everyone come along for the ride. your not going to take it down with a raise and if your draw is that big, you don't want to!
This was the first rated "R" episode of Ante up! thanks for AJ. He's right though. It is crap that we might lose High stakes.
Great stories. Very entertaining episode.
Brian
Posted by: Chi-Guy | June 05, 2008 at 10:46 PM
GREAT interview. GREAT guy. My personal all time Ante up favorite.
Posted by: Chiberta | June 06, 2008 at 05:00 AM
Tell AJ I am canceling his show. I will use this blog to communicate with him if he has anything to say to me. If you invite me on the show, I'll explain why were not picking it up.
-David
Posted by: David Goldhill | June 06, 2008 at 09:15 AM
Great show this week guys. This guest was great, I don't really watch too much poker on TV, but I would watch this guy's show. What are the best episodes? I want to catch up on pokertube.
-Blaz
Posted by: Blazman | June 06, 2008 at 09:17 AM
Great episode, very fun. I still gotta believe HSP will end up somewhere. We will see.
For some reason, I am thinking about Raquel Welch in the fur bikini. My personal favorite hand of the week. Always a dilemma as to how to handle top pair.
Posted by: aces88ss | June 06, 2008 at 09:29 AM
Get David on the show! I want to know why they are cancelling the best poker show on TV!!!!!!!
Brian
Posted by: Chi-Guy | June 06, 2008 at 09:53 AM
Translated from German:
All my Cardinals have been telling me to open up my views and to see the world as it really is. I do a random search in google and come up with your podcast. I plug it into my Blessed Ipod and... well let me say I am severely disappointed in what the world has become. The language on this show was appalling. I plan to issue a few edicts to take care of such filth!
Stay out of my city.
The Pope.
Posted by: The Pope | June 06, 2008 at 10:13 AM
I agree, get David on the show...
-Blaz
Posted by: Blazman | June 06, 2008 at 10:48 AM
Translated from German:
Plus, I would have have folded the Cosenza pre-flop. It's just a donk hand.
But if I called, I'd push it on that flop.
The Pope.
Posted by: The Pope | June 06, 2008 at 10:52 AM
If getting in touch with Goldhill were as easy as getting in touch with Blazman, who was the person responsible for the David Goldhill post(s), I think we'd have him on. But he certainly wouldn't be as entertaining and colorful. And I don't think our server could handle all of the hate mail.
Posted by: Christopher Cosenza | June 06, 2008 at 11:02 AM
Hey Pope...It's called the Cosenza or a reason. If you play it, you gotta have faith. Sure, not all of us are infallable, but please don't question another man's faith.
Some people handle snakes and drink kool-aid as a sign of faith... Here in the Ante-Up nation, we play A-10 with a smile. Who's to say who is crazier?
Posted by: aces88ss | June 06, 2008 at 11:26 AM
OK, one more and then I will stop...
Hey Pope...
Bless me father for I have sinned...
It's been 5 days since my last confession, I had impure thoughts about Raquel Welch, I teased my sister and I played the Cosenza twice to the river.
Posted by: aces88ss | June 06, 2008 at 11:38 AM
I will always play A-10 in a no limit Donkament to hit big and hopefully, not rely on top pair there.
If it is suited, I'll play it in a limit cash game, too, although with 6 players to the flop, you better not hit the ace. it ain't no good, unless it comes with a 10.
Hell, I may even be playing it in RAZZ now as long as my third starting card had no paint! It is equally a donk start in RAZZ with another baby.
Brian
Posted by: Chi-Guy | June 06, 2008 at 12:30 PM
Great, great show guys. AJ was hilarious. This show was one of my favorites and it was just barely about poker.
Unfortunately Chris' math in the hand of the week had me cringing.
On the turn with 15 outs:
46 unknown cards unless we're making some assumption about our opponent's holdings.
About a 33% chance we'll hit which is about 2:1.
Posted by: Rant2112 | June 06, 2008 at 12:46 PM
Hey, I got it right in the end, sort of. 8-)
I was too distracted by the earlier interview. 8-)
Posted by: Christopher Cosenza | June 06, 2008 at 02:05 PM
Just the image of Brando's daughter ready to pay oral homage to AJ with her dad on TV in the background w/ the orange in his mouth running around the garden is something so surreal that David Lynch couldn't even come up w/ something like that.
Posted by: Clever Moniker | June 06, 2008 at 02:55 PM
EASILY one of my 3 favorite Ante-Ups EVER, and that's saying something!
Way to keep the show fresh. AWESOME.
Posted by: Lee | June 06, 2008 at 04:03 PM
Im thinking you guess need to do a show on pot odds. It seems like you have no understanding of the concept. ;-)
Posted by: Dane | June 08, 2008 at 09:15 AM
I just read today HSP is moving back to the Golden Nugget and a new season starts filming in August, most likely for NBC.
Posted by: VBDave | June 08, 2008 at 05:52 PM
Terrific interview. Poker podcasting at its best. Of course, you guys could've just sat back & let Benza do a monologue and it would've still been great/fascinating. But you had all the right cues ready. Great stuff.
Posted by: Short-Stacked Shamus | June 10, 2008 at 12:58 AM
aces88ss:
Sorry, busy day at the Holy See.
I've heard your confessions and for the impure thoughts of Raquel Welch, say 12 hail marys, and buy an updated p0rno mag!
Teasing your sister, it's a right of passage..
Playing The Cosenza twice to the river... well you're going to hell. Sorry.
Posted by: The Pope | June 10, 2008 at 10:19 AM
Your Holyness...I took your advice, and bought a new magazine...You were (of course) infailable with your advice. That Ann Margaret, talk about your Viva Las Vegas!!!
Posted by: aces88ss | June 11, 2008 at 11:19 AM
WOW! I just heard the recent episode with AJ Benza and my god is he funny/frank. That has to rate and one of your best shows. I say you add a third seat to the show and bring him along :D
Posted by: Mig | June 11, 2008 at 11:55 AM
I can't remember the last time I laughed so hard! I just about did a nose squirt with my grande cafe Verona in Blockbuster! I love AJ!
Now I know what's missing from Ante up - more swearing and oral sex references! (kidding, don't ever change!)
Posted by: MichellefromCanada | June 11, 2008 at 07:05 PM
Clearbrook is hosting a WORLD POKER TOUR satellite event for charity -- Winner recieves a seat at the WORLD POKER TOUR along with other runner-up prizes
Please assist us in posting this event on your site
Below is the link to the events page
www.clearbrook.org/events
Creating Opportunities For Children And Adults With Disabilities
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Event Calendar
World Series of Poker Satellite Tournament -- Saturday, October 4, 2008
Event Time: 3:00 p.m. until midnight - Please arrive early as the tournament starts promptly at 3:00 p.m.
Additional Info
Get your poker face ready for a chance to win a $10,000 pre-paid seat in the 2009 World Series of Poker main event in Las Vegas! (Date is to be determined.)
Grand prize: $10,000 pre-paid seat in 2009 World Series of Poker
Second prize: $500 cash
Third prize: 2 tickets to the 2009 First Look for Charity event at the Auto Show on February 12, 2009 ($450 value)
- Buy-in is $250 per player*
- Only 200 registrations will be accepted
- Players must be 21 years of age on October 4, 2008
- Additional buy-in games will be available for players that are eliminated
Location:
Clearbrook's Getz Building
746 S. Vermont Street
Palatine, IL 60074
* The registration fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. The winner is responsible for all taxes, travel and expenses for the Las Vegas event. However, if the event is cancelled by Clearbrook your registration fee will be refunded.
Contact Info
Please contact Bonnie O'Brien at 847-385-5013 or bobrien@clearbrook.org for additional information.
Register For This Event
» World Series of Poker Satellite Tournament
Register here!
Return To The Calendar »
Go To... ----- Home Page Contact Us About Us - Overview - Mission & History - Letter From The President - Board & Staff - Press Page - Annual Report - News Archive - Testimonials - Newsletter - Resale Shops - Job Opportunities - Application - Contact Us Services - Children's Services - Adult Services - Employment Services Events - Overview - Event Calendar - Sponsorship Get Involved - Donate Now - Wish List - Supported Employment - Volunteer Opportunities Resources - Legislation & Advocacy - Links - Frequently Asked Questions - Education - Life Book - HIPAA Privacy Practices Private Area
Clearbrook
1835 West Central Road • Arlington Heights, IL 60005
Phone: (847) 385-5300
E-mail: info@clearbrook.org
Posted by: SAM | July 25, 2008 at 08:35 PM
Clearbrook is hosting a WORLD POKER TOUR satellite event for charity -- Winner recieves a seat at the WORLD POKER TOUR along with other runner-up prizes
Please assist us in posting this event on your site
Below is the link to the events page
www.clearbrook.org/events
Creating Opportunities For Children And Adults With Disabilities
Home
About Us
Services
Events
Get Involved
Resources
Overview
Event Calendar
Photo Gallery
Sponsorship
Events
Event Calendar
World Series of Poker Satellite Tournament -- Saturday, October 4, 2008
Event Time: 3:00 p.m. until midnight - Please arrive early as the tournament starts promptly at 3:00 p.m.
Additional Info
Get your poker face ready for a chance to win a $10,000 pre-paid seat in the 2009 World Series of Poker main event in Las Vegas! (Date is to be determined.)
Grand prize: $10,000 pre-paid seat in 2009 World Series of Poker
Second prize: $500 cash
Third prize: 2 tickets to the 2009 First Look for Charity event at the Auto Show on February 12, 2009 ($450 value)
- Buy-in is $250 per player*
- Only 200 registrations will be accepted
- Players must be 21 years of age on October 4, 2008
- Additional buy-in games will be available for players that are eliminated
Location:
Clearbrook's Getz Building
746 S. Vermont Street
Palatine, IL 60074
* The registration fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. The winner is responsible for all taxes, travel and expenses for the Las Vegas event. However, if the event is cancelled by Clearbrook your registration fee will be refunded.
Contact Info
Please contact Bonnie O'Brien at 847-385-5013 or bobrien@clearbrook.org for additional information.
Register For This Event
» World Series of Poker Satellite Tournament
Register here!
Return To The Calendar »
Go To... ----- Home Page Contact Us About Us - Overview - Mission & History - Letter From The President - Board & Staff - Press Page - Annual Report - News Archive - Testimonials - Newsletter - Resale Shops - Job Opportunities - Application - Contact Us Services - Children's Services - Adult Services - Employment Services Events - Overview - Event Calendar - Sponsorship Get Involved - Donate Now - Wish List - Supported Employment - Volunteer Opportunities Resources - Legislation & Advocacy - Links - Frequently Asked Questions - Education - Life Book - HIPAA Privacy Practices Private Area
Clearbrook
1835 West Central Road • Arlington Heights, IL 60005
Phone: (847) 385-5300
E-mail: info@clearbrook.org
Posted by: SAM | July 25, 2008 at 08:36 PM
Clearbrook is hosting a WORLD POKER TOUR satellite event for charity -- Winner recieves a seat at the WORLD POKER TOUR along with other runner-up prizes
Please assist us in posting this event on your site
Below is the link to the events page
www.clearbrook.org/events
Creating Opportunities For Children And Adults With Disabilities
Home
About Us
Services
Events
Get Involved
Resources
Overview
Event Calendar
Photo Gallery
Sponsorship
Events
Event Calendar
World Series of Poker Satellite Tournament -- Saturday, October 4, 2008
Event Time: 3:00 p.m. until midnight - Please arrive early as the tournament starts promptly at 3:00 p.m.
Additional Info
Get your poker face ready for a chance to win a $10,000 pre-paid seat in the 2009 World Series of Poker main event in Las Vegas! (Date is to be determined.)
Grand prize: $10,000 pre-paid seat in 2009 World Series of Poker
Second prize: $500 cash
Third prize: 2 tickets to the 2009 First Look for Charity event at the Auto Show on February 12, 2009 ($450 value)
- Buy-in is $250 per player*
- Only 200 registrations will be accepted
- Players must be 21 years of age on October 4, 2008
- Additional buy-in games will be available for players that are eliminated
Location:
Clearbrook's Getz Building
746 S. Vermont Street
Palatine, IL 60074
* The registration fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. The winner is responsible for all taxes, travel and expenses for the Las Vegas event. However, if the event is cancelled by Clearbrook your registration fee will be refunded.
Contact Info
Please contact Bonnie O'Brien at 847-385-5013 or bobrien@clearbrook.org for additional information.
Register For This Event
» World Series of Poker Satellite Tournament
Register here!
Return To The Calendar »
Go To... ----- Home Page Contact Us About Us - Overview - Mission & History - Letter From The President - Board & Staff - Press Page - Annual Report - News Archive - Testimonials - Newsletter - Resale Shops - Job Opportunities - Application - Contact Us Services - Children's Services - Adult Services - Employment Services Events - Overview - Event Calendar - Sponsorship Get Involved - Donate Now - Wish List - Supported Employment - Volunteer Opportunities Resources - Legislation & Advocacy - Links - Frequently Asked Questions - Education - Life Book - HIPAA Privacy Practices Private Area
Clearbrook
1835 West Central Road • Arlington Heights, IL 60005
Phone: (847) 385-5300
E-mail: info@clearbrook.org
Posted by: SAM | July 25, 2008 at 08:36 PM
Clearbrook is hosting a WORLD POKER TOUR satellite event for charity -- Winner recieves a seat at the WORLD POKER TOUR along with other runner-up prizes
Please assist us in posting this event on your site
Below is the link to the events page
www.clearbrook.org/events
Creating Opportunities For Children And Adults With Disabilities
Home
About Us
Services
Events
Get Involved
Resources
Overview
Event Calendar
Photo Gallery
Sponsorship
Events
Event Calendar
World Series of Poker Satellite Tournament -- Saturday, October 4, 2008
Event Time: 3:00 p.m. until midnight - Please arrive early as the tournament starts promptly at 3:00 p.m.
Additional Info
Get your poker face ready for a chance to win a $10,000 pre-paid seat in the 2009 World Series of Poker main event in Las Vegas! (Date is to be determined.)
Grand prize: $10,000 pre-paid seat in 2009 World Series of Poker
Second prize: $500 cash
Third prize: 2 tickets to the 2009 First Look for Charity event at the Auto Show on February 12, 2009 ($450 value)
- Buy-in is $250 per player*
- Only 200 registrations will be accepted
- Players must be 21 years of age on October 4, 2008
- Additional buy-in games will be available for players that are eliminated
Location:
Clearbrook's Getz Building
746 S. Vermont Street
Palatine, IL 60074
* The registration fee is non-refundable and non-transferable. The winner is responsible for all taxes, travel and expenses for the Las Vegas event. However, if the event is cancelled by Clearbrook your registration fee will be refunded.
Contact Info
Please contact Bonnie O'Brien at 847-385-5013 or bobrien@clearbrook.org for additional information.
Register For This Event
» World Series of Poker Satellite Tournament
Register here!
Return To The Calendar »
Go To... ----- Home Page Contact Us About Us - Overview - Mission & History - Letter From The President - Board & Staff - Press Page - Annual Report - News Archive - Testimonials - Newsletter - Resale Shops - Job Opportunities - Application - Contact Us Services - Children's Services - Adult Services - Employment Services Events - Overview - Event Calendar - Sponsorship Get Involved - Donate Now - Wish List - Supported Employment - Volunteer Opportunities Resources - Legislation & Advocacy - Links - Frequently Asked Questions - Education - Life Book - HIPAA Privacy Practices Private Area
Clearbrook
1835 West Central Road • Arlington Heights, IL 60005
Phone: (847) 385-5300
E-mail: info@clearbrook.org
Posted by: SAM | July 25, 2008 at 08:36 PM