Ask Chip and Karina

Q: What do you say to your partner when he/she is not doing well at poker?

Karina: I have never put Chip down for losing or playing badly, even though in my mind I might have had other thoughts. I always try to be positive, because you can't let this business beat you down.

Chip: I try to be supportive and remind her that everything will be all right. Don't worry, baby, I hear they're hiring at Del Taco.

Q: Do you have any superstitions?

Karina: I have a strange superstition about clothing that I don't really talk about, but if I have a big loss, I'll never wear the same outfit again to play poker.

Chip: It's unlucky to be superstitious. However, if having a spinning card holder makes you feel lucky, then spin away. If thinking bad luck made your Q-4 offsuit lose against nine opponents makes you feel better about yourself as a poker player, think away. However, I've noticed a trend lately that players must think it's unlucky to bathe during a hot streak. NASA scientists have proven that the luck will not wash off. SOAP + WATER = LUCKY.

Q: I've been a successful live-action player and want to start playing tournaments. Do you have any advice for me?

Karina: If you have a big bankroll, go for it. However, tournament strategy is very different from live games, so you may want to try to parlay your way into tournaments. I would start playing smaller tournaments to get a feel for the difference. Try to gain as much tournament experience as you can.

Chip: The key to poker is finding an area where you excel, and exploiting it. I've found that my best results are in $5 one-table satellites against mentally challenged opponents under the age of 7. Take the time to find your poker comfort zone and go for it! But don't stop bringing home the bacon to support a yearning for television poker exposure. Gradually switching from cash games to tournaments a few hours a week will help you to decide whether you are ready to hit the tournament trail and subject yourself to the gut-wrenching, soul-crushing profession that is tournament poker.