Poker Pioneer

The Autobiography of Tom McEvoy, World Champion & Hall of Famer

By: Tom McEvoy, Brad Smith

Narrated by: Robert William Collins

Nominated for 2024 "Best Poker Book" by Global Poker Awards.

Poker Hall of Famer Tom McEvoy has led an extremely colorful life. In his own words he tells his story, warts and all, unabashedly sharing his high points and his low points. In his view, it's a lot more interesting when you tell the truth about the good stuff, and the bad stuff. He's not a millionaire, and that's what makes his story so interesting. Along the way he also shares his behind-the-scenes experiences with some of the best-known players in poker history.

Tom McEvoy pioneered several of poker's milestones. He was the first:

•to win his WSOP Main Event World Championship via a satellite tournament.

•to buck the pros and write instructional books on tournament strategy.

•to spearhead the drive to ban smoking at poker tournaments.

•official online poker pro host of PokerStars.

•WSOP Main Event winner hired to run the WSOP.

When it comes to poker, Tom has done it all. Author, global ambassador, card room and major tournament host and manager, seminar speaker, teaching instructor, television personality, player advocate, and much more. All this makes for some great storytelling.

It's often been noted that in the early days of tournament poker, the fields were smaller. The fields are always smaller when you are breaking new ground. Wouldn't you like to know more about what those early days, the players, and the poker culture were like?

Now you can.

©2024 Brad Smith (P)2025 Brad Smith

Vivid, In-depth View

Poker Hall of Famer Tom McEvoy shares his extraordinary life story with honesty and humor, revealing both his triumphs and struggles. From his groundbreaking WSOP Main Event win via a satellite to pioneering smoke-free tournaments and authoring classic poker strategy books, McEvoy helped shape modern poker. He also offers behind-the-scenes stories featuring some of the game’s biggest legends. A true trailblazer, McEvoy’s journey from player to global ambassador captures the evolution of poker itself.

Authors Tom McEvoy and Brad Smith deliver a vivid, in-depth look at McEvoy’s life, achievements, and rise in the world of poker. This revealing account explores the emotions, decisions, and motivations behind his journey, answering the often-asked questions of how and why poker professionals do what they do. The insider’s look into this world was captivating and interesting.

Narrator Robert William Collins brings the story to life with remarkable precision, drawing listeners fully into every moment. His thoughtful pacing, clear voice, and expressive delivery capture both McEvoy’s resilience and his calm, carefree attitude in the face of adversity.

I can’t imagine enduring the kind of losses and betrayals Tom McEvoy faced, but he handled them as mere setbacks. His resilience alone makes this book worth hearing.

There were no issues with the quality or production of this audiobook.

Not interesting

Too much self promotion about changing the casino smoking rules. Not enough stories about the older players.