About the OG
Meet The OG
The dream began over a decade ago. Sarah Shadel, known affectionately in the industry as the Original DreamMaker, has spent years turning a vision into reality—bringing professional-level poker to the Wild West.
Her journey took a major leap forward with the invention of Montana Let Go, a unique poker variant she developed through relentless refinement and collaboration with state regulators. The game didn’t just catch on—it was officially added to the Montana rule book, becoming a recognized part of the state’s gaming landscape.
While always keeping her eyes open for the right opportunity, Sarah crossed paths with Buck’s Bar. Owner Ted recognized her passion and potential, and together they laid the foundation for what would become the DreamMakers School of Poker. With 20 years of experience in the poker world—from humble beginnings at Doc & Eddy’s in Billings, Montana, to dealing in the legendary Thunderdome at the WSOP for ESPN—Sarah has truly seen it all.
Now, she’s excited to give back. At DreamMakers, she shares not just skills and techniques, but the real secrets of the game—the lessons learned from two decades at the felt.
Background
Sarah Shadel - The OG DreamMaker
2006 - First Dealer's License working at Doc and Eddys in Billings, Montana
2009 -2010 - Opened three Poker rooms in a matter of weeks
2010 - 2015 - Dealt the WSOP
Started playing Poker professionally
2011 - Won $13,333 at the Southpoint
2012- Raised $10K for Steve Brown with a charity Poker tournament/silent auction
2013 -Taught two semesters at Montana State University- Billings
Received a Master's in Public Relations
2013- Dealt 17 ESPN final tables
2015- 2020 - Hired as Dealer coordinator/ Dual Rate Day Time Supervisor for Planet Hollywood, Las Vegas
2015- Given the nickname Sarah Soul Crusher Dream Maker
2023- Invented Montana Let Go and got it added to the list of games allowed to be played in Montana
2025- Opened DreamMakers School of Poker
By a Friend
The OG has been living the poker life for over 20 years—from smoky Montana bar games to the bright lights of the World Series of Poker. She's a seasoned dealer and tournament director who has dealt with everything from grassroots fundraisers to ESPN final tables. Off the clock, she's a storyteller, a mom, and a believer that poker is about people as much as cards. The Poker Life is her way of sharing the laughs, lessons, and moments that made her who she is—one hand at a time.