Across her numerous poker endeavors-player, CEO, speaker, advocate-Lena Evans embodies the idea that poker is a game of skill and a platform for mental development, personal growth, and empowerment. She is a two-time World Series of Poker Circuit champion and speaker whose 2021 TEDx talk, "A Sport for the Mind: Why Poker is Good for You and Your Brain," is the foundation for this book.In her TEDx talk, Lena made a compelling case for poker as more than just a game of chance-it is a rigorous mental sport that builds cognitive strength, emotional discipline, and strategic thinking. Thanks to the TEDx talk, her message reached a global audience and sparked meaningful conversations about the brain benefits of poker.Lena has broken barriers as one of the few female CEOs in the poker industry. She is the founder of Helix Poker, an innovative gaming brand, and Poker League of Nations (PLON), the world's largest women's poker organization, committed to empowering and increasing the number of women in the game. Through PLON, Lena has cultivated a thriving community that promotes inclusion, education, and opportunity for female players worldwide. In addition, she leads Suited Poker Gear, a high-quality poker apparel and accessories company founded in 2011, along with the Suited Poker Gear Tour, further demonstrating her entrepreneurial vision and commitment to growing the game in creative, engaging ways.Lena's tournament accomplishments speak for themselves. She was the first woman to win two World Series of Poker Circuit championship rings in one season (2017-2018). Her poker résumé is stacked with victories across major events. As a trailblazing force in the poker world, her contributions to the game continue inspiring players to pursue excellence at the table while caring for their minds beyond it.
