Matt Sweetwood is a serial entrepreneur, start-up founder, professional speaker, consultant, coach, author, and photographer. He is the co-founder of Insurious, a company that provides insurance products for camera and video equipment and accessories. Matt is the author of the #1 best-selling book, Leader of the Pack: How a single dad of five led his kids, his business and himself from disaster to success, where he details his journey to success as a father and as a business leader.
Where did you grow up and what was your childhood like? Did you have any particular experiences/stories that shaped your adult life?
I grew up in the New Jersey Suburbs to first-generation European immigrants. We had a family business which I worked in from toddler on. It shaped my view of entrepreneurship and set my lifelong journey in business.
What is something you wish you would’ve realized earlier in your life?
Yes, I wish I had learned to trust myself and had more confidence in myself – Listen to that inner voice that comes from your gut.
What are bad recommendations you hear in your profession or area of expertise?
As a coach and consultant, I see too many people focus on the past and worry about the future. It permeates business and personal issues. Stay present is the key to business success and happiness.
Tell me about one of the darker periods you’ve experienced in life. How you came out of it and what you learned from it?
There was a time I ended up as a single dad of 5 little children and at the same time my business with 100 employees was failing,
What is one thing that you do that you feel has been the biggest contributor to your success so far?
Relentless hard work and God.
What is your morning routine?
I get up at 8 am, say my prayers, coffee, high protein breakfast with some news consumption, and head to my computer for emails, social media and start the day.
What habit or behavior that you have pursued for a few years has most improved your life?
Keeping myself in good physical health and strength. It’s the foundation for mental and emotional health.
What are your strategies for being productive and using your time most efficiently?
See #7 above – Physical health and strength. But at the heart of managing my family as a single dad and running a company in a highly volatile electronics business, is my unwavering dedication to being highly organized.
What book(s) have influenced your life the most? Why?
Relentless: From Good to Great to Unstoppable – Tim Grover
It reminded me to trust in myself and be a “cleaner.”
Do you have any quotes you live by or think of often?
“How badly do you want it?!”
