The number of people actually playing this game is quite small, and the number of winning AIs is even smaller (to the point where Tuxedage can charge $750 a round and isn't immediately flooded with competitors).

A round seems to need the 2 hours on the chat but also many hours in background research. If we say 8 hours background research and script writing that would equal $75/hour. I think that most people with advanced persuasion skills can make a higher hourly rate.