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Vin Baker's Journey from Basketball to Barista

Mike Grauer Jr, Creative Commons

Vin Baker was an Olympic basketball player and four-time NBA All Star. The journey from University of Hartford to professional basketball got him rich quick, but it was a lifestyle he couldn't keep up with.

Baker's struggle with alcoholism is well-documented, as is the fact he blew through $100 million. He lost his home and restaurant.

But Baker's on a new path now. He's getting his masters degree, he's a minister, and a manager at Starbucks. 

This hour, we talk to Baker about his life, his regrets, and what he's looking towards in the future. 

GUEST: 

  • Vin Baker - former professional basketball player, Starbucks manager, minister

Join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter.

Chion Wolf contributed to this show. 

Catie Talarski is Senior Director of Storytelling and Radio Programming at Connecticut Public.
Colin McEnroe is a radio host, newspaper columnist, magazine writer, author, playwright, lecturer, moderator, college instructor and occasional singer. Colin can be reached at colin@ctpublic.org.

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