Linda Johnson, dubbed "The First Lady of Poker", was kind enough to answer our questions. She is the former editor of Card Player Magazine, and now announces for the WPT.
Name: Linda Johnson
Location: Las Vegas
Years Playing Poker: 33
Favorite Game: Omaha/8 and Chinese Poker
Favorite Hand: AA23
Favorite Quote:Now, let's play poker!
1. Was there a defining moment when you knew that you would become a professional poker player?
In 1980 when I finished fifth in the WSOP, I knew it was time to become pro.
2. Do you enjoy poker more now, or before you became a pro?
I still love poker and try to play every day if possible. I love it more than ever.
3. If you could give one piece of advice to a player considering going pro, what would it be?
Before turning pro, make sure you have kept records for at least two years, played at least 2000 hours a year, and made enough to support yourself. Be sure to have a bankroll that will get you through a few months of running bad in case it happens.
4. Do you continue to improve/change your game? If so, what do you do to improve?
I do continue to improve my game by reading new books, going to seminars, talking poker with friends, and actually teaching poker. I learn when I teach since it is an emphasis on the basics.
5. What is your most memorable poker moment?
Winning my razz WSOP bracelet in 1997.
6. What is your most embarrassing poker moment?
Having a hot flash in a televised event.
7. Besides playing poker, do you have other business interests?
Many...I am a co-owner of Card Player Cruises, announce for World Poker Tour, and teach WPT Boot Camp. I also host tournaments and conduct seminars around the country.
8. Do you think internet poker has affected poker as a game, or has it stayed the same for you?
It has affected poker by enabling so many people to get so much experience in such a short time. It also makes it easy to log on and play poker any time of the day or night.
9. As "The First Lady of Poker", how do you feel about the increased number of women who play professional poker?
Women make great players if they apply themselves. I think the numbers of women playing will continue to grow as women find out how much fun and profit they can have playing poker.
10. What has it been like for you to dominate in an predominantly male society?
It hasn't always been easy... the poker environment is much nicer now than it was in the '70s when I started. I think I have made more money because I am a woman and didn't garner as much respect from men as I should have had.
11. In your opinion, have attitudes towards female professionals changes through the years?
Yes, definitely. Men now know that women who play professionally are very tough players.
12. Do you prefer cash games or tournament play? Why?
I prefer cash games because they aren't as big a time commitment as tournaments are. Also, you can quit when you want and have a better winning rate percentage in cash games.
13. Do you prefer live poker, or online? Why?
I love both but probably prefer online because I travel so much that it is easy to log on at night and play. The rake is lower for the most part, no dealer tips, and no dealer errors, plus you can play more hands in an hour online than live. Live has plenty of advantages as well including the social interaction.
14. If there wasn't poker, what would you be doing?
I would have been a lawyer.
15. What is your next goal that you wish to achieve?
I would love to win another gold bracelet. I also want to do more charity work.
16. Is there anything else that you would like the members of railbirds.com to know about you?
I enjoy meeting people so if you see me in a poker room, please come and say hello...even if I am stuck in a game.
Regards,
Thanks for your time Linda, and Good Luck on and off the felt...
published by smiley chick
© Copyright 2008
8 comments
Many thanks to Linda and, of course, to cptmorgan for this feature (one that came about, I'll point out in this time of "change," from the folks at RB.com ... listening).
Good luck to all; keep it fun - play well & profit.
Very Cool Interview!
and LMAO @
6. What is your most embarrassing poker moment?
Women are defibnately under-rated in the poker world! They can definatley hold their own..some of them anyway
Nice interview Linda! Thank you.