Antonio Esfandiari Speaking Fee: $10,000 to $20,000

Antonio Esfandiari is a world-class poker champion, entrepreneur, and former professional magician. Born in Iran and raised in the United States, he discovered a passion for magic as a teenager, quickly mastering sleight of hand and captivating audiences. His ability to read people and control perception made for a natural transition to poker, where he found his true calling. Within a few years, he went from performing card tricks to competing against the world’s best players at the highest stakes. Esfandiari’s breakthrough came in 2004 when he won his first World Poker Tour (WPT) title, establishing himself as one of the game’s rising stars. He continued to dominate the tournament scene, earning multiple World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelets. In 2012, he made history by winning the Big One for One Drop, a $1 million buy-in tournament, taking home over $18 million—the largest single payout in poker history at the time. This victory solidified his reputation as a fearless competitor and strategic thinker under pressure. Beyond the poker table, Esfandiari has built a career as a commentator, television personality, and speaker. He has been a regular fixture on poker broadcasts, offering expert analysis and engaging storytelling. His deep understanding of psychology, decision-making, and risk assessment makes him a sought-after speaker in business and leadership circles. He shares insights on calculated risk-taking, mental resilience, and high-performance thinking, drawing from his experiences in both magic and poker. Despite his success, Esfandiari remains grounded, valuing family and personal growth above all. He has shifted his focus toward business ventures, philanthropy, and mentoring the next generation of poker players. Whether at the felt or on stage, he continues to inspire others with his sharp intellect, charisma, and ability to thrive under pressure.