About the authors
Two cousins, one family, and the grandparents who taught them most of what is in this book.
Stephen and Helen Irmo
Jumpstart Your Life is dedicated to Nick and Vince's grandparents, Stephen and Helen Irmo. They raised seven children and, in the authors' words, "taught us the true meaning of what it means to be a 'good' person." Many of the 101 lessons are things they said at the kitchen table, and many more are things they simply showed by how they lived.
Nick Irmo
Nicholas Gabriel Irmo is a marketing professional and entrepreneur, and a husband and father. He was raised with his mother's support and his grandparents' wisdom, and learned early that real wealth is measured in relationships. His grandfather taught him that a handshake means something, and that idea runs all through this book.
Vince Polyanov
Vincent Palizzolo Polyanov is a dedicated public servant, military veteran, and father of two. His father taught him that integrity is what you do when no one is watching, a principle that carried him through military service and the everyday work of raising kids. He brings practical, tested experience to the book's lessons on work, ethics and character.
In memory of Libbey Cates
The book also honors the authors' cousin Libbey Cates, an English and social studies teacher at Roy Municipal Schools in New Mexico, known for her laugh and the handwritten notes of encouragement she left on struggling students' desks. COVID-19 took her far too soon. Her spirit runs through the lessons on connection, purpose and legacy.
Three generations of one family, 101 lessons, one short book.
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