Matt is an inspiration for change and self betterment.

I’ve only interacted with Matt in a group setting where many people were vying for his attention. I was lucky enough to be able to ask him direct questions in those environments on a couple of occassions. But for the most part, I knew Matt like most, either from listening to him talk on stage, through his blog posts, and his other online communications.

Matt has really been an impact on me and my career over the years. Whether it’s his 30 day challenge ideas or his constant positive demeanor or his move to the U.S. Digital Service; Matt has inspired me to be a better person and a better contributor to society as a whole.

Especially when I was a much younger professional, the pull to use my technical knowledge for profit and trolling / spamming was strong. The cool kids were hacking and manipulating the system seemingly at ease and with great fanfare in forums I read. The temptation was strong.

Matt was a beacon on truth and a role model of what is possible and positive when you apply yourself for the greater good of the internet and society in general. His constant positivity toward improving the lives of others, even when being directly bad mouthed and yelled at by the people he was trying to help was an inspiration for me to continue to do better. If a person can take so much abuse day in and day out and still feel compelled to help those who don’t even appreciate it, I at least could do my part.

Personally, my views to help SMBs and to help impact local communities in part was influenced and indirectly mentored by Matt’s shining example of dedication.

I sincerely appreciate all the things Matt has done for society, the internet, and for me.