T&A: Tens And Aces. An AP Blackjack podcast. Turning the tables from Las Vegas to Local Casinos

Mike AP
  • 5.0 (2)
  • GAMES
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

A podcast about the real lives and experiences of advantage players of the game of Blackjack. We'll share both positive and negative stories, because as any Blackjack pro knows, the positive and negative variance of this game and how to take advantage of the positive situations while working our way through the negative one, is what rising above mere gambling and winning long-term in this game is all about. Blackjack is, along with Poker, one of the few games in a casino that a disciplined and skilled player can have a long term edge playing. Are you ready for some T&A?

  1. Episode 135: David Vs. David

    2D AGO

    Episode 135: David Vs. David

    In this episode of Tens and Aces, host Mike AP sits down with returning guest Xipo, an advantage player and veteran software developer, to break down one of the most talked-about controversies in the blackjack community. Well, at least on Reddit and other online places of note in the AP community. At the center of the discussion is a dispute involving Blackjack Tools and Blackjack Apprenticeship, raising serious questions about intellectual property, proprietary datasets, and software integrity in the world of advantage play. With over 30 years of experience in software development and cybersecurity, Xipo walks through the technical evidence—from identical outputs at extreme decimal precision to suspicious code changes and AI-generated patterns that may suggest attempts to obscure underlying data sources. But this episode goes beyond code. Mike and Xipo explore the broader implications for the AP community: trust between players, the value of paid vs free platforms, and the ethics of building tools in a space built on shared knowledge. They also discuss how AI tools like ChatGPT and other LLMs are changing the way software is written—and how those tools leave detectable fingerprints. Despite the controversy, the conversation remains balanced—acknowledging innovation in competing tools while emphasizing the importance of transparency, originality, and respect for the work that powers successful advantage play. Whether you're a card counter, aspiring AP, or just interested in the intersection of gambling, software, and ethics—this episode delivers a rare, insider-level breakdown. EPISODE TOPICS blackjack advantage playBlackjack Apprenticeshipblackjack tools controversyAP software toolsblackjack EV calculatorcard counting strategygambling software analysisAI in coding (ChatGPT, LLM)intellectual property disputeblackjack community discussioncasino advantage play podcastEV optimization blackjack tools

    56 min
  2. Episode 134: A Pack Of Smokes, A Porno Mag And a Lottery Scratcher

    2D AGO

    Episode 134: A Pack Of Smokes, A Porno Mag And a Lottery Scratcher

    In Episode 134 of The Tens and Aces Podcast, host Mike AP sits down with Doug, an advantage player (AP), software developer, and founder of savvyscrath.com. Doug’s incredible journey connects multiple worlds—online and live poker, blackjack, machine advantage play, comp hustling, and even a tech-driven edge in lottery scratcher ticket prediction. This episode explores how data, networking, and innovation can transform gambling into a measurable skill—and even a profession. Doug began in the golden age of internet poker, grinding on Full Tilt Poker and PokerStars before the 2011 “Black Friday” crackdown reshaped the landscape. Transitioning to live poker, Doug’s curiosity led him into blackjack apprenticeship, where he honed card counting skills and gained real-world experience as a banker at a California card room—a unique legal structure where players compete against each other, not the house. Doug dives deep into the quirks of California card rooms, explaining how they operate legally under player-banker rules. However, growing pressure from tribal casinos and regulatory shifts have forced many to close. His insider perspective reveals how policy changes can reshape entire ecosystems of legal AP opportunities. Never content with one niche, Doug advanced into machine advantage play and comp hustling—leveraging casino promotions and rewards for profit. He even built small teams to sign up players for bonuses, showing how creative networking and data collection unlock hidden value in casinos. Doug stresses that advantage players shouldn’t define themselves solely as card counters: diversification is survival. Doug’s crown achievement is a groundbreaking data-driven lottery system. His platform, ⁠savvyscrath.com⁠, tracks state lottery data—sales, ticket availability, and prize pools—to calculate real-time expected value (EV) for scratcher games in over 19 U.S. states. Key innovations include: Automated analysis of public lottery dataDynamic probability models to find “+EV” ticketsModel Context Protocol (MCP): a proprietary AI interface allowing conversational data queries for personalized strategy insightsDoug’s system effectively turns government-released data into actionable advantage play—bridging gambling, analytics, and software engineering. Doug shares how AI is reshaping discovery and marketing, but warns about hidden bias in search results and AI outputs driven by affiliate marketing. True advantage play now includes data skepticism—learning to question information sources and use AI as a lens to uncover niche opportunities others overlook. Echoing Richard Munchkin’s mantra that “Your network is your net worth,” Doug emphasizes the power of connections in the AP world. Information-sharing circles can be the difference between profit and burnout. For Doug, advantage play is not a hustle—it’s a mindset applied to everything from travel and spending to career optimization. Doug recalls buying his first scratcher on his 18th birthday, netting a $150 win—an early glimpse of the edge-seeking determination that defines his career. His nostalgic storytelling blends humor and insight, contrasting the analog gambling days with today’s data-driven ecosystem. Diversify your edge: Don’t rely solely on one AP method—adapt and expand.Leverage tech: Data tools and AI open new, overlooked profit zones.Stay networked: Collaboration and relationships multiply opportunity.Adopt the AP mindset: View everyday life through the lens of efficiency and edge-finding.advantage play podcast, blackjack, card counting, online poker history, California card rooms, machine advantage play, comp hustling, lottery scratcher analytics, savvyscrath.com, Doug advantage player, Mike AP podcast, Tens and Aces Episode 134, data-driven gambling, AI in casino strategy, Model Context Protocol MCP, AP mindset, gambling technology trends, blackjack apprenticeship

    38 min
  3. Episode 133: Archangels Of Blackjack V2. 0

    APR 30

    Episode 133: Archangels Of Blackjack V2. 0

    Note: We fixed a few technical issues with the original version. Sorry for any inconvenience this may have caused! Episode Summary In part two of this roundtable episode, Mike and guests dive deep into the practical and philosophical side of advantage play, starting with casino ID checks, heat, and longevity strategies. They swap stories about random ID requests, navigating casino policies, using alternative IDs, and how rated play and comps can sometimes buy a longer leash. The conversation shifts into travel EV—road trip logistics, using comps strategically, living out of your car, rental car hacks, free rooms, and balancing bankroll preservation with comfort. From there, the group gets into rat-holing, chip palming, cover plays, and the blurry line between practical camouflage and outright theatrics. That sparks a wider discussion on disguises, personas, social engineering, and where each player draws the ethical line. Along the way are great stories about exploitable casino promotions, clueless casino management, side bet opportunities, and the joy of finding casinos stepping over dollars to pick up pennies. The second half explores the double-edged sword of information sharing. The crew debates YouTube and Social Media content, and that leads into a thoughtful discussion about slot AP, secrecy, monetizing information, community gatekeeping, and why some opportunities react very differently to exposure than card counting does. It’s equal parts practical shop talk, philosophy, and hilarious degeneracy. Show Notes Casino ID checks, age verification, and handling “random” checksRated vs unrated play and how comps can affect longevityTravel cost-saving strategies for AP road tripsUsing comp properties as a base for regional casino runsSleeping in cars, truck stop showers, rental car hacks, and Vegas travel EVDomestic Tranquility Index: using casino comps to keep partners happyRat-holing strategies, chip palming, shift changes, and camouflageCover plays, gambler acts, and making surveillance see what you want them to seeThe ethics (and comedy) of disguises, personas, and undercover playCrazy casino promotions and exploitable coupon storiesCasino management mistakes, side bets, and why casinos sweat the wrong thingsJackpot procedures, surveillance attention, and when to leave the tableYouTube, TikTok, AP influencers, and whether exposure helps or hurtsFreeloading back-counters and table etiquette among APsSlot AP secrecy, monetization, and whether selling information burns opportunitiesReddit toxicity, moderated communities, and why scarce edges create territorial behaviorMemorable moments: “Gold miners or miners?”The old-man Hollywood prosthetic AP disguise storyBlind Luck as the greatest AP content channel name never launchedA casino promo worth nearly pure EV… because management didn’t listenGoing full max spread after a floor says, “We don’t get card counters here”The philosophical debate: where is the line between cover and absurdity?

    1h 20m
  4. Episode 132: Call To Arms

    APR 22 ·  BONUS

    Episode 132: Call To Arms

    Episode 132: Call To Arms | The Tens and Aces Podcast In this quick little dispatch of The Tens and Aces Podcast, we’re issuing a Call To Arms for the advantage play blackjack community and listeners of this podcast. The world of advantage gambling isn’t just about strategy, bankrolls, and EV—it’s also about people. And lately, the community has been facing a growing challenge: toxicity, trolls, and internal division. The reason this matters to the community and to the creators of this podcast: The rise of negativity and trolling within the gambling and advantage play spaceHow online culture is impacting real-world relationships among playersThe hidden cost of division in a community that depends on trust and shared knowledgeWhy strong communities are essential for long-term success in blackjack and beyondPractical ways to deal with trolls, protect your mindset, and stay focused on your edgeHow we can rebuild a culture of respect, trust, and brotherhoodLet's help each other out!This episode isn’t just about calling out the problem—it’s about leading the solution. If you're serious about advantage play blackjack, you already know: mindset and community are just as important as counting cards. It’s time to protect both.

    4 min
  5. Episode 130: Five Guys, One Chat

    APR 16

    Episode 130: Five Guys, One Chat

    What happens when five advantage players with completely different backgrounds sit down to talk shop? In this episode of the Tens and Aces Podcast, host Mike AP is joined by Xipo, Loki, LimaTime, and Skeleton to sit down and discuss the reality of life on the felt, along with other AP endovors. From Martingale mishaps and the legality of using another person’s player’s card to the psychological warfare of "hiding in plain sight," this episode covers the full spectrum of the journey. The group dives into creating cover personas, leveraging online resources and tools, such as the Blackjack Apprenticeship (BJA) community to battle loneliness, the hidden value of AP on cruise ships, and why the house kicking you out is the ultimate proof of concept. The "Smart Gambler" Cover: LimaTime explains how his professional background helps him blend in. By playing up the "successful guy with too much money" stereotype, he avoids the "young counter" profile that attracts pit boss scrutiny. Player's Cards & Legality: The panel tackles a sensitive topic: Is it fraud to use someone else's player's card? A discussion on breaking "casino rules" vs. breaking the law, the syndicates trying to "bust out" promotions, and why most casinos usually just cancel your comps. The Loneliness of the Road: Why networking via the Blackjack Apprenticeship app, Discord, Reddit and other online communities is vital for modern players to stay mentally on top of their games and battle the loneliness that often accompanies AP play, as compared to the isolation players faced 20+ years ago before before social media and the proliferation of supportive on-line communities. Family Misconceptions: Dealing with family who don't understand the math. The guys discuss explaining swingy sessions, the difference between losing and "bad counting," and the reality that you can't pay a phone bill with Expected Value (EV). Casino Logic (or Lack Thereof): Stories of casinos backing off losing players or "ploppies" simply because they were uncomfortable with the action, proving that the house isn't always as sharp as they think. AP on the High Seas: Loki and Xipo discuss the opportunities and limitations of AP on cruise ships. They cover the reality of the games, leveraging "conditional promotions" to pay for family trips, and why keeping these plays under "lock and key" is essential for longevity.War Stories & Game Protection: A look at how License Plate Readers (LPR) can get your grandmother banned, the rare beauty of spotting a hole carding opportunity, and the legendary "they got us" back-off prank. TO SUPPORT THE SHOW BY BECOMING A PAID SUBSCRIBER FOR THE PRICE OF ONE CUP OF COFFEE CLICK HERE -----------] anchor.fm/ta21 Key Terms in This Episode:#CardCounting #Blackjack #AdvantagePlay #CasinoComps #CoverPersona #APLife #TensAndAces #BlackjackApprenticeship #BJA #ExpectedValue #CruiseShipAP #CasinoSurveillance #MikeAP If you enjoyed this round table of advantage players, make sure to subscribe so you can have Part 2 of this conversation sent automatically to your feed when it's released. Resources Mentioned: Blackjack Apprenticeship (BJA): Training, community, and player networking.Tens and Aces Podcast: Real stories from real advantage players.

    51 min
  6. Episode 110: Back To Basics

    APR 7

    Episode 110: Back To Basics

    Here is a new episode of the podcast with an updated Blackjack basic strategy tutorial. #blackjack #tutorial #gambling #casino #advantageplay #Cardcounting

    29 min
  7. Episode 128: Into the AP Badlands: Bankroll Trauma, Backoffs & Blackjack War Stories

    APR 6

    Episode 128: Into the AP Badlands: Bankroll Trauma, Backoffs & Blackjack War Stories

    In this gloriously unhinged deep‑dive into the Badlands of advantage play Blackjack, host Mike AP sits down with Chris and Steve for Part 3 of their marathon four‑hour blackjack saga. What starts as a chat about obscure deviations quickly spirals into a full‑blown AP therapy session: bankroll trauma, emotional damage, tribal‑casino war stories, Reddit bans, ploppy encounters, and the eternal truth that blackjack is basically a never‑ending boxing match where the casino is a heavyweight assassin and you’re… well… you. The trio break down the real AP lifestyle — the wins, the losses, the “I just lost a house in one shoe” moments, the existential 2 a.m. parking‑lot stare‑downs, and the weird joy of using a deviation you practiced for months. They roast bad games, bad advice, bad risk‑of‑ruin math, and bad casino behavior. They also pitch a heartfelt recruitment ad for women APs (“please, for the love of God, email us”), share tales of side‑bet degeneracy, and explain why giving up your ID too early is the AP equivalent of tattooing your SSN on your forehead. If you love blackjack, advantage play, card counting, casino psychology, EV nerdery, and stories from the trenches, this episode is your buffet. If you’re a ploppy… buckle up. SHOW NOTES 📬 Contact information "BAD CHRIS" & "BAD STEVE" blackalaskandiamond@hotmail.com MIKE AP tensandaces21@gmail.com • Why obscure deviations are fun and worth learning even when they’re worth 0.0000003 EV • Respecting the casino as a trained assassin trying to murder your bankroll • Bankroll reality: why most APs fail and why $50k is the real “starter kit” in Chris's opinion • Variance as a living demon that eats your soul • The emotional journey from “I lost $7k!!!” to “lol that’s cute” • Risk of ruin: why 10% is insanity and 2% is still spicy • Game selection as the true AP superpower • Why women APs are unicorns and also terrifyingly effective • The art of not giving your ID unless absolutely necessary • Tales of tribal casinos, trespass forms, and signing “eat shit” • Ploppy interactions: unsolicited advice, confusion, and delicious irony • Buying other players’ blackjacks, side‑bet shenanigans, and EV thievery • Getting cheated by a “fair” casino and the joy of being told to pound sand • Reddit bans, hockey fights, and the dangers of saying “hit him in the jibs” • Backoffs, flaps, and the sweet moment when the pit tells you you’re “too good” • Why APs leave the table when someone else hits a big side bet • Team play, shared bankrolls, and the “pigs get slaughtered” problem • The eternal truth: blackjack is one long shoe, and the casino doesn’t care about your feelings • Blackjack podcast • Card counting stories • Advantage play strategy • AP lifestyle • Casino backoff stories • Blackjack deviations explained • Professional gambler interviews

    1h 18m

  8. APR 6

    Episode 129: Let Me Get This Straight

    This is just a short little bonus episode we put together while we're editing down and doing post-production on the latest four interviews we conducted for the show. More full-length episodes to come soon!

    4 min
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A podcast about the real lives and experiences of advantage players of the game of Blackjack. We'll share both positive and negative stories, because as any Blackjack pro knows, the positive and negative variance of this game and how to take advantage of the positive situations while working our way through the negative one, is what rising above mere gambling and winning long-term in this game is all about. Blackjack is, along with Poker, one of the few games in a casino that a disciplined and skilled player can have a long term edge playing. Are you ready for some T&A?

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