Joe Turbessi

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Age: 31

Title: Founder

Company: Finished: What's Next?, Author, Speaker

Location: Glastonbury/Online

Hometown: Middletown

College: UConn

Bio

Joe Turbessi is an author, speaker and entrepreneur. His first book, “Into the Muck: How Poker Changed My Life,” chronicles his journey and struggles with the amateur poker world. He has since used his experiences to help shape who he is today. He gives speeches at high schools, colleges and organizations sharing the importance of gambling awareness.

Based on his experiences and the message of the book, which is to strive toward what's next, but be proud of the obstacles you've overcome, he founded the company Finished: What's Next?.

The company was created to motivate, inspire and challenge, which is something Turbessi brings to both his business and personal life. As part of this mission, Turbessi has always found ways to incorporate charity into his endeavors. He's created special products, including PowerCordz for kids struggling at the Connecticut Children's Medical Center and The Village for Families & Children in Hartford.

He has aspirations of becoming a screenwriter.

Q&A

If you gave the next commencement speech at your alma mater, what would the message be? Success is about more than money. There are many ways to be successful in this world, and it's important that we all find it within our lives. Each of us will have our own definition of success. Everyone comes from somewhere and got to where they are because of what they've been through. Life is all about the journey and at some point, everyone faces something in their life that will challenge them like they've never been before. It'll be how you respond that will define you forever.

If there is one person whose life and career you want to imitate, who would it be? It's important to shape yourself based on your experiences, the people around you, and those you look up to. I'm very fortunate to have been raised by great parents, who have always served as positive role models in my life. They keep me going forward when I need a push and grounded when I get lost.

If you could design a bumper sticker with your advice to the world, what would it say? 'Enjoy the moment.' This is one of the toughest pieces of advice to adhere to. Life goes by too fast. We're always preparing and looking towards something, then it happens and it's over. But what about the many important moments along the way? Take it all in and enjoy them before they're gone.

Life's Journey:

During my off time, I am most passionate about… Spending time with people I care about, playing/watching sports, writing, coming up with new ideas

What is the most exciting destination you've ever traveled to? Bermuda

What is your favorite tourist destination? San Diego

Where is the one place you want to travel in your lifetime? New Orleans with my family to see the Saints play

Favorite CT destination: CT shoreline

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