Brad Owen has become a household name in the poker world—not for dominating high-roller events, but for authentically showcasing the life of a dedicated low to mid-stakes grinder. Through his engaging and relatable poker vlogs, Owen has built one of the most loyal followings in the game, inspiring tens of thousands of players around the world to hit the felt with confidence, strategy, and purpose.
Often dubbed the “Vlog King” of poker, Owen’s rise reflects how personality, consistency, and storytelling can make just as much impact as tournament trophies.
Humble Beginnings in Poker
Brad Owen’s poker journey began like many others—grinding small stakes in local casinos and online. He wasn’t a prodigy or a high-stakes phenom. Instead, he was a student of the game who studied diligently, built a bankroll slowly, and developed a disciplined playing style suited for 1/2 and 2/5 No-Limit Hold’em cash games.
These early years laid the foundation for a deeper understanding of poker fundamentals, especially in live cash game environments where reading people and managing variance are essential skills.
Revolutionizing Poker Vlogs
Owen’s decision to start a YouTube channel in 2016 changed everything. His goal was simple: to document his grind in a transparent, entertaining, and educational way. The format featured hand breakdowns, session recaps, voiceovers, and a slice-of-life perspective that viewers found instantly relatable.
Unlike most poker content at the time, Owen’s videos focused on accessible stakes—the games that everyday players actually play. This authenticity made his channel explode in popularity. With over 750,000 subscribers, Brad Owen is now one of the most-watched and trusted voices in poker content.
His vlogs not only entertain, but also educate a generation of aspiring cash game players on bankroll management, positional awareness, and tilt control.
Achievements and Poker Recognition
Though Owen is best known for his content, his poker résumé is nothing to overlook. Some of his notable accomplishments include:
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Ambassador for the World Poker Tour (WPT)
Partnering with WPT to bring the game to wider audiences and host meet-up games (MUGs) around the globe. -
Co-owner of The Lodge Card Club in Texas
Alongside Doug Polk and Andrew Neeme, Owen helped turn The Lodge into one of America’s busiest and most vibrant live poker rooms. -
Live Tournament Scores
While not his main focus, Owen has cashed in several live events, including deep runs in WSOP and WPT side events, proving he can compete beyond cash games. -
Global Poker Award Winner
Honored with the 2022 People’s Choice for Poker Personality of the Year, showing the industry’s appreciation for his positive influence.
Building Community Through Meet-Up Games
One of Brad Owen’s most impactful contributions to the poker ecosystem is his creation of Meet-Up Games (MUGs). These events, hosted in casinos around the world, allow fans and recreational players to sit at the same table as their favorite vloggers. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and inclusive—qualities often missing from traditional poker environments.
MUGs have helped grow live poker by encouraging new players to step into card rooms, interact with pros, and feel a part of something bigger.
A New Kind of Poker Celebrity
What sets Brad Owen apart from traditional poker stars is his focus on real-world poker. He doesn’t flaunt luxury or boast massive tournament wins. Instead, he represents the average player—grinding, improving, and sharing every high and low along the way.
In doing so, he has created a new model for poker celebrity—one based on honesty, community, and continuous growth.
