We recently connected with Marie Babouchian and have shared our conversation below.
Marie, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
Resilience isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a lifeline. For me, it was forged in the crucible of loss and responsibility at an early age. I was just ten when my mother passed away, a moment that transformed my world into a whirlwind of uncertainty. Suddenly, I found myself not just grieving a profound loss, but also stepping into the role of caretaker for my younger sisters. It was a responsibility that would shape my character and set the foundation for the resilience I carry today.
With the weight of my family’s future on my shoulders, I developed a strong work ethic. There were nights I stayed up late helping my sisters with homework, balancing schoolwork myself, and managing household duties. My childhood was punctuated by sacrifice, but it was also the beginning of my understanding that perseverance could lead to progress, even in the darkest times.
As I entered my teenage years, I found an unexpected outlet in poker. Initially, it was just a way to escape; I was drawn to the game’s complexity and the thrill of competition. I invested $500—an amount that felt monumental—and immersed myself in learning everything I could. I devoured twelve books on poker strategy, analyzed hands late into the night, and practiced relentlessly. The initial stakes were more than just financial; they symbolized my determination to create a better future.
The journey was rife with challenges. There were nights when I lost more than I won, when self-doubt crept in, and when the pressure felt unbearable. But poker taught me crucial lessons about maintaining composure under pressure, the importance of patience, and the need to adapt. Every bad beat was a reminder that resilience is not about avoiding failure but about rising each time we fall.
My time playing poker also led to a serendipitous opportunity. After graduating college, I became one of the founding team members of the World Poker Tour. It was a leap into the entertainment industry, a world that had always fascinated me but felt miles away from my reality. The experience was transformative; I learned not just about production, but about the power of storytelling, the nuances of collaboration, and the importance of authenticity.
Now, as an executive producer, I carry those lessons with me. I’ve faced my share of setbacks, both in my personal life and in my career, but each obstacle has only strengthened my resolve. I understand now that resilience is a muscle that needs constant training; it requires acknowledging the hard days while celebrating the victories, no matter how small.
Today, I stand in a position where I can impact not just my life but the lives of those around me. My past may have been marked by trauma, but it has also been rich with lessons. I owe my resilience to the early struggles that forced me to grow up quickly and the experiences that taught me how to fight back against adversity. It’s a continuous journey, one that I embrace with open arms, knowing that every challenge is an opportunity to rise again. A life with no risk, is no life at all.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I’m excited to share my journey as a producer, which has taken me from the poker table to the heart of Hollywood and beyond. After turning my initial investment in cash games into a thriving poker career, I made the leap into the entertainment industry that had always fascinated me. My role as marketing director and series producer of the World Poker Tour was a pivotal moment, allowing me to merge my passion for poker with storytelling. I do still play poker when I have downtime and poker is a big part of my life.
Working at MTV Viacom as a rolling producer was another highlight. I had the incredible opportunity to produce Trippin, with Cameron Diaz as my boss—an experience that was both inspiring and educational. Being surrounded by such creative energy and learning the ropes of production solidified my desire to carve out a career in this field.
My path took me from the bustling studios of Paramount Pictures and NBC to the vibrant streets of Cairo, where I worked with a successful production company. Egypt’s magic and cultural richness opened my eyes to new storytelling possibilities and expanded my creative horizons. This experience taught me the importance of adaptability, especially as the industry began shifting towards short-form content and digital platforms.
Today, I’m back in Los Angeles, focusing primarily on scripted programming while still nurturing my passion for short films. I’m proud to have collaborated with renowned brands and studios like Nike, Apple, Amazon, Netflix, and Disney, crafting compelling narratives that captivate viewers. My work spans unscripted projects, but I find great fulfillment in scripted storytelling, where we can explore deeper character arcs and intricate plots. I am grateful to have developed global syndicated shows that push creative boundaries and engage diverse audiences.
What excites me most is the dynamic nature of our industry—how it continually evolves with technology and audience preferences. I’m currently exploring new projects that harness the power of digital and streaming platforms,
Looking ahead, I’m thrilled about the potential for expansion in digital campaigns and innovative storytelling techniques. I believe we are on the cusp of a new era in entertainment, where the lines between different formats blur, and the opportunities for creative expression are endless. As I continue this journey, I’m committed to fostering collaboration, embracing change, and delivering content that inspires and connects people around the world.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Believe in Yourself: Never give up on your dreams. If you can envision it, trust that you can achieve it. Consistency and authenticity will guide you on your journey.
Network and Learn: Connect with others in your field, and don’t hesitate to seek mentorship from those you admire. Shadowing someone can provide invaluable insights and help you grow.
Invest in Your Craft: Dedicate time to honing your skills, knowing that meaningful achievements require hard work. Embrace challenges, and remember that perseverance and purpose lead to a fulfilling life.
Alright, so before we go we want to ask you to take a moment to reflect and share what you think you would do if you somehow knew you only had a decade of life left?
I’m currently navigating the challenges posed by the downturn in Hollywood jobs, which can be disheartening given my 20 years of investment as a successful creative. However, I remain optimistic and adaptable, believing that I can pivot alongside the industry. I’m particularly hopeful about 2025, as I see it as a promising year for both myself and my fellow creatives. I also would love to see more opportunities for women and minorities.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stories/pokermary/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marie.babouchian
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariebabouchian/
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