Ryan Laplante has carved out a unique and powerful presence in the world of poker—not just as a successful tournament player but also as one of the most respected coaches in the game. Known for his disciplined play, approachable teaching style, and dedication to building a thriving poker community, Laplante’s influence reaches well beyond the felt. His ability to balance success in live and online tournaments while elevating others through coaching has made him a valuable contributor to poker’s ongoing evolution.
Early Career and Competitive Breakthrough
Ryan Laplante began his poker journey online, rising through the ranks during the post-boom era by applying consistent study, strategic analysis, and a grounded mindset. His breakout moment came with a win at the 2016 World Series of Poker, where he earned his first gold bracelet in the $565 Pot-Limit Omaha event, besting a massive field of over 2,400 players.
That victory not only secured Laplante’s reputation as a tournament force but also demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure against top-tier competition. Since then, he has continued to post deep runs and consistent results across both live and online platforms.
Tournament Success and Consistency
Laplante’s poker résumé includes:
-
Over $3.3 million in live tournament earnings
-
WSOP Bracelet Winner in 2016
-
Dozens of WSOP cashes, with consistent annual performances
-
Online tournament victories across major sites such as PokerStars, GGPoker, and WSOP.com
-
Final tables in a wide range of formats, including No-Limit Hold’em, PLO, and mixed games
His strength lies not only in big results, but in consistency — year after year, Laplante shows up prepared, with a deep understanding of the game’s changing dynamics and an eagerness to adapt.
Founder of LearnProPoker
One of Laplante’s most meaningful contributions to the poker community is through his coaching platform, LearnProPoker. Founded in 2019, the site focuses on affordable, high-quality poker education designed to serve players of all skill levels.
LearnProPoker emphasizes:
-
Structured learning paths for beginner to advanced players
-
Theory-driven, GTO-informed content that remains accessible
-
Frequent updates and detailed hand breakdowns
-
Community-focused learning, with active Discord channels and coaching feedback
Laplante’s mission with LearnProPoker is to break down the barriers of high-level strategy and make serious improvement available to players who might not have access to elite-level coaching elsewhere.
A Mentor and Advocate for Inclusivity
In addition to his coaching, Ryan Laplante is known for being a positive voice in the poker community. He’s a strong advocate for inclusivity, mental health awareness, and respectful discourse within the game.
As an openly gay professional player, he has spoken candidly about representation in poker and the importance of fostering a safe and welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of background. His leadership in this space has inspired many and brought important conversations to the forefront of the poker scene.
Thought Leadership and Community Engagement
Laplante is a frequent contributor to podcasts, interviews, and poker panels where he shares his insights on strategy, tournament trends, and the evolution of training. Whether through his Twitch streams, YouTube breakdowns, or Discord Q&As, he’s consistently available to players seeking guidance and support.
His communication style is clear, honest, and direct — a combination that makes him a highly effective coach and a valued figure in poker education circles.
Building a Legacy Through Teaching
While Ryan Laplante will always be recognized for his bracelet and tournament earnings, his lasting legacy may be through the players he’s helped develop. By creating accessible, high-level educational content and fostering community engagement, Laplante is shaping the next generation of competitive, thoughtful poker players.
He’s not just teaching people how to win pots — he’s teaching them how to think, grow, and succeed with purpose.
