Today we’d like to introduce you to Anthony Cicali

Hi Anthony, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

Anthony “Eatahoagie” Cicali’s journey into professional streaming began in 2015 when he emerged as one of New Jersey’s pioneering online poker streamers on Twitch. Leveraging the state’s legalization of online gambling, he expanded his content to include online casino games, becoming one of the first regular casino streamers in New Jersey. Beyond streaming, Anthony is a professional East Coast poker player and a freelance writer, contributing to platforms like PlayNJ, Pennlive, and PlayPennsylvania, where he covers poker and casino-related topics.

His multifaceted career reflects a deep passion for the gaming industry and a commitment to engaging with the community through various media.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

The road hasn’t always been smooth for Anthony “Eatahoagie” Cicali. One of the main challenges has been the slow expansion of online casinos in the United States. With only a handful of states legalizing online gambling, growth opportunities have been limited, making it difficult to reach a broader audience.

Another hurdle has been the competition in the streaming space. As online gaming gained popularity, the landscape became crowded with new streamers, requiring constant innovation and effort to stand out. Despite these challenges, Anthony has remained dedicated, adapting his content and finding ways to engage his audience through creativity, persistence, and a genuine passion for gaming and poker.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?

Anthony “Hoagie” Cicali is a dynamic content creator and professional poker player who has made a name for himself in the world of online gaming and streaming. His streams, which you can watch weekly at Twitch.tv/TheSlotSquad or on his YouTube channel @HoagieCasino, offer an exciting mix of high-stakes poker strategy, casino gameplay, and entertaining commentary.

As a professional poker player, Hoagie boasts an impressive record of over half a million dollars in tournament winnings. His expertise at the tables is matched by his ability to engage with his audience, sharing insights and stories that make every stream a must-watch for poker enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.

What sets Hoagie apart is his ability to blend professional poker skills with approachable, entertaining content. Whether it’s diving deep into poker strategies or exploring the latest casino games, Hoagie’s passion for gaming shines through. He’s most proud of building a community of fans who share his enthusiasm for poker and casino entertainment, making every stream a shared experience. His combination of talent, authenticity, and a genuine love for the game has made him a standout figure in the gaming and streaming world.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?

For anyone just starting out in streaming or pursuing a professional gaming career, my biggest advice is to stay consistent and patient. Success doesn’t happen overnight, and building an audience takes time. Here are a few tips I wish I knew when I was starting out:

Focus on Community Building: Interact with your viewers, no matter how small the audience. Those early fans can become loyal supporters who stick with you as you grow. Respond to comments, ask questions, and make them feel involved.

Quality Over Quantity: When starting out, it’s tempting to stream as often as possible, but focus on improving the quality of your content. Good audio, video, and entertaining or educational content make a huge difference.

Embrace Networking: Collaborate with other creators and join communities in your niche. Whether it’s poker, casino gaming, or something else, networking can expose you to new audiences and opportunities.

Stay Adaptable: The streaming landscape changes quickly, and what works today might not work tomorrow. Be open to experimenting with new platforms, formats, and content ideas.

Don’t Fear Failure: Everyone has streams that flop or strategies that don’t work out. Learn from them and keep improving. The key is to stay consistent and keep showing up.

One thing I wish I knew when I started is how important diversification is. Relying solely on one platform can be risky, so branch out into multiple platforms like YouTube, Twitch, or even blogs and social media to build your brand. Finally, have fun! If you’re passionate about what you’re doing, your audience will see that, and the journey will be so much more rewarding.

Pricing:

• $60 per hour for Streaming or Marketing videos

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hoagiecasino/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/story.php/?story_fbid=1109220260610417&id=100045673612828&_rdr
• Twitter: https://x.com/eatahoagie
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@hoagiecasino
• Soundcloud: NerdthusiastPoker.com
• Other: https://tiktok.com/hoagiepoker

Image Credits

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