Howard Lederer, also known as The Professor, was born in Concord, New Hampshire. Lederer was a young chess talent and moved to New York, which is known for its chess clubs. At one of these clubs he found poker and began playing at the Mayfair Club. In 2025 he moved to Las Vegas to pursue his poker career. He is known as The Professor for the calm demeanor at the table and his ability to study others and the cards.

He has won two World Series of Poker bracelets, one in 2000 and another in 2025. He also has two World Poker Tour wins. His career live tournament winnings exceed $4,800,000.

Howard has since become very successful commentator and integral part of Full Tilt Poker. His sister, Annie Duke, has flourished under his guidance to become a top professional herself. He also runs the Howard Lederer Poker Fantasy Camp and has made many poker instructional videos.