Paul: Matt and I met in 2007 when he was a newly arrived job hunter in Tokyo.
17 years later, Matt and I spoke about his career in technology and innovation, his passion for bodybuilding, embarking on a new career as a fitness coach, and much more.
Hi Matt. It’s always great to catch up with you. Please tell us a little about yourself.
Matt: I was born in the USA, Hingham, Massachusetts in 1969, coinciding with the iconic Apollo 11 moon landing, making me forever a SciFi nut I suppose. Raised by a hardworking single mother alongside my younger brother, I witnessed firsthand the determination and perseverance required for my mother to earn her business degrees at night while ascending to senior leadership at a Boston-area bank. This instilled in me a deep appreciation for dedication and hard work from a very young age.
Despite being limited by asthma in early childhood, I found a real passion for fitness through an old set of weights and a bench left in the basement by my father. Not only did this help improve my physical condition, transforming me from a skinny-fat kid to the most muscular middle schooler in my area, but it also fostered a unique bond between my dad and me, connecting us through our shared interest in physical fitness and bodybuilding.
My passion for reading extensive texts on training, nutrition, and bodybuilding, fueled my curiosity and knowledge in the areas of training and nutrition. My town public library was chocked full of bodybuilding books – somewhere there is a staff member to whom I owe great thanks. By my late teens, I was not only a competitive bodybuilder but also deeply engrossed in understanding the biological sciences needed to optimize physical development. This enthusiasm for understanding the human body and its capabilities ultimately guided me to pursue a major in Sports Medicine at university.
You went to university to study sports medicine but graduated with a bachelor’s degree in East Asian studies. Tell us about your studies and how they led you to Japan.
My academic path began at the University of Massachusetts, where I initially pursued Sports Medicine. Early into my studies, I managed to enroll in advanced classes, eager to delve deeper into the field. However, my plans were unexpectedly derailed when the program was canceled due to budget cutbacks in the early 1990s. Given our tight financial situation, transferring to a private school wasn’t a feasible option. This challenging turn of events led me to pivot towards my second passion: writing.
At the time, I was already engaged in journalism, contributing to ESPN’s Bodybuilding show, American Muscle Magazine. I enjoyed the opportunity to craft narratives and develop storylines, which naturally guided me to shift my major. My childhood interests (growing up with Godzilla and Gamera) led me to choose Japanese as my language of study, which introduced me to East Asian studies. The professor overseeing this department became a mentor figure, encouraging my exploration of Japanese history, literature, language, and Asian religions. I ended my senior year making and gifting to my professor an usu and kine from a felled tree, which were then used in the Boston Children’s Museum mochi-tsuki festival during New Year celebrations. This transition not only shaped my academic pursuits but also broadened my cultural and intellectual horizons, enriching my personal and professional life.
My actual journey to Japan began in 1994 when a classmate and I ventured to Sapporo with the idea of starting an English school, alongside one of our teaching assistants. Although the venture didn’t pan out, this initial trip sparked a lasting connection with Japan. Upon returning to the U.S., I briefly worked at a bank on the FX desk but soon realized that operational finance wasn’t my calling. This led me to an offering at a friend’s computer store where I learned to assemble and modify PCs, discovering a new interest in technology.My career path took another international turn when a relationship led me back to Japan, where I worked at a ryuugaku, a foreign university prep school. There, I discovered my passion for teaching and helping others—a theme that has consistently reemerged in my career. Leveraging my growing tech skills, I developed and taught courses on using essential tools like Microsoft Office for university students.
After a few enriching years in Japan, I returned to the U.S. in 1998 to take up a position at SunGard, offered by a close friend. The time seemed right so I went with it.
What technologies did you work on and what roles did you have in your early career as an engineer?
My career in IT infrastructure at SunGard was actually rooted in earlier experiences. During my time in Japan in the late 90s, where I initially went to teach, I found myself with ample free time which I used to teach myself Linux. This self-directed learning helped me discover a passion for delving deep into systems and understanding their intricacies, despite having no formal training in computer science.
My enthusiasm for understanding how things work drove me towards OpenSource software, which proved to be a vast playground for enhancing my skills in systems, networks, and administration – for zero cost. This hands-on approach not only broadened my technical abilities but also prepared me for the complex challenges I would later face at SunGard, blending my practical knowledge with my professional responsibilities in IT.
The then-decade-long stint at SunGard deepened my expertise in IT, culminating in a senior management role. However, in 2006, I chose to leave for a smaller position that offered me more time with my family and young child.
You and I met in 2007 when you relocated with your family to Japan. What prompted the move?
In 2007, I made the decision to relocate to Japan, driven by the desire to expose my young child to their Japanese heritage. I envisioned spending just a few years here to enrich their cultural understanding and identity and then moving back to the US. Despite experiencing various ups and downs after the move, this chapter of my life extended far beyond the initial plan, evolving into nearly 17 years and counting.
I’m immensely grateful that my child has had the opportunity to grow up here in Japan. This experience has not only been fulfilling for them but has also been incredibly rewarding for me, both personally and professionally. Living in Japan has shaped my life in ways I could never have anticipated, and I am glad I took the path that I did, despite the few curveballs life threw my way.
You joined a global asset management company and spent the next 16+ years there. That’s quite a stint! How did your career develop during that time? You must have experienced quite a bit, with the financial crash of 2008, the 2011 earthquake, and more.
I joined Fidelity in late 2007, right before the dawn of the Global Financial Crisis, a period marked by significant turbulence in the sector. Witnessing the collapse of major firms like Bear Stearns (which shared our building at the time) and Lehman Brothers was a stark introduction to the volatility of the financial industry and I saw many new friends leave the firm. This tumultuous start, coupled with the personal challenges of moving my family to a new country, tested my resilience and optimism. However, I’ve always believed in focusing on what I can control and striving to do my best, regardless of external circumstances, so I put my head down and ground onward.
Starting as a UNIX and Firewall administrator, my role at Fidelity was a natural progression from my self-taught Linux days back in 1996. My journey through IT was characterized by a series of roles where I embraced new challenges and continuously learned. I evolved from managing APAC regional firewalls to stepping into Project Management, where I had more opportunities to influence change. It was here that I discovered and implemented Agile and Lean methodologies, significantly enhancing our workflow and output.
My passion for innovative approaches led me to work with Pivotal Labs, a Silicon Valley-style incubator/educator firm located in Roppongi Hills, where our teams learned to radically improve product development through pair programming and other lean-agile practices. These experiences were key as I moved into Infrastructure Strategy and then Innovation, where I explored cutting-edge technologies and trends for the business and our customers. Learning about Service Design and Design Thinking further enabled me to improve service efficacy and quality. Sharing these tools and methodologies with my colleagues, fostering a diverse and collaborative environment, has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career and again demonstrated my joy in teaching and influencing.
2011, if anything, showed me how incredibly resilient Japan and the Japanese people are. I have never doubted the infrastructure, technology, and abilities of Japan, but 2011 proved it. The tsunami was substantial and caused a lot of damage and loss of human life, but most of the country soldiered on. Amazing.
You spent the past few years at Fidelity in their innovation group. It’s a question rife with speculation, but I’ll ask it anyway – what do you think will be the impact of recent technology such as Generative AI in the financial services industry?
Generative AI is poised to dramatically alter the professional landscape, particularly impacting sectors such as finance and insurance where knowledge workers are prevalent. These technologies, such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Microsoft’s Copilot, serve as more than mere tools; they are potential collaborators that can streamline everyday business as usual (BAU) tasks, allowing experienced workers to shift their focus from routine tasks to more complex and skill-intensive work.
Additionally, generative AI offers customization options, enabling companies to either build their own models or purchase services from vendors. This adaptability allows organizations to infuse these AI systems with proprietary knowledge, greatly enhancing productivity and output across various domains, from back-office operations to roles like portfolio research analysts and management.
However, a critical question remains: will companies use the efficiencies and cost savings provided by AI to simply reduce headcount, or will they seize this opportunity to invest in their employees, fostering an environment that encourages growth and innovation? The strategic decisions companies make regarding AI could significantly determine whether it becomes a force for workforce reduction or empowerment.
You recently parted ways with Fidelity and are starting on a new, very different career path as a fitness coach. Could you share some more of your background in bodybuilding and why you’ve decided to make this your new career?
My journey into bodybuilding began at the young age of 15, motivated by my need for a sport that was compatible with my asthma—team sports were too taxing on my respiratory condition. The solitary nature of bodybuilding, where I could set my own pace and goals, suited me perfectly, leading to my first competition at age 18 with the support of more experienced members and the owner of my first hardcore bodybuilding gym.
The early years saw me participating in contests such as my first one held on MIT’s campus, where I was one of the youngest competitors. My potential was recognized early on by influential local figures in the sport, one of whom was both the head judge at my first competition and a former football coach of my father. I was also scouted by the producer of ESPN’s American Muscle Magazine TV program, for whom I would later work as a writer.
My first serious stint in Japan in the mid-90s brought another competitive chapter. Encouraged by the owner of the local gym—a former top Japanese competitor himself—I decided to compete again. The TV producer I knew got in touch and connected me with the guest poser for the event, a top pro bodybuilder from the US and we hung out before the contest, leading some to believe I was also a guest poser. Despite my overwhelming size advantage, outweighing my competitors by over 10-15 kg, I was awarded third place, being the only foreigner in the class. The magazine photos told the story and it was rather silly. This experience, though both somewhat comical and disappointing, was pivotal, as it showcased the subjective nature of bodybuilding contests, especially outside my home country. After this, I stepped back from competing again, focusing on my career and personal growth.
However, nearly two decades later, in 2018, with the establishment of a new bodybuilding organization in Japan that offered a pathway to an IFBB pro card, my curiosity and competitive spirit were reignited. At the age of 48, I returned to the stage, winning my first competition. The following year, I competed in the Amateur Olympia, where I secured second place in the Masters 40+ class. This marked a satisfactory return to the sport after years of professional and personal development and a nice end cap to competing, exactly one week before turning 50.
These experiences in bodybuilding have not only shaped my physique, but have also instilled a profound understanding of discipline, resilience, progression, and the importance of scientific approaches to fitness combined with experience. Now, as a full-time coach, I aim to share these principles and experiences with others. I advocate for methods that are not swayed by trends but are grounded in decades of proven effectiveness. Whether assisting novices or seasoned competitors, my goal is to provide structured, personalized guidance that helps each individual achieve their fitness goals. Getting in optimal condition is technically simple, but it’s not easy, especially if going it alone.
Are there any specific skills or mindsets you’ve developed in bodybuilding that have unexpectedly benefited your work in IT engineering, and vice versa?
Bodybuilding has been much more than a sport for me—it has been a masterclass in essential life skills that have applicability far beyond the gym. The discipline has taught me persistence, the importance of pushing through challenges and setbacks, mirroring the resilience required in personal and professional pursuits. Striving for continuous progression, moving forward every day with consistency is what brings you success. In the gym and out, life often has the same rules.
Goal setting and consistency are at the core of successful bodybuilding. Developing a vision, setting measurable targets, and staying consistent with training and nutrition have direct parallels in achieving any significant career or life objective. These skills ensure progress is measurable and continuous, fostering a mindset geared towards incremental and sustainable growth balanced with recovery, both physical and mental.
Moreover, the need for continuous learning in bodybuilding—whether updating routines, diet, or recovery methods—has instilled in me a lifelong habit of seeking out new knowledge, assimilating it, and adapting quickly to changes. This ability is particularly valuable in today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving work environments, where staying current is synonymous with staying relevant.
These skills have not only shaped my approach to fitness but have also underpinned my professional endeavors and personal growth. They have been crucial in my transition into a coaching role, where setting clear goals, being consistent in approach, and continuously adapting to new health and fitness science are key to helping others achieve their goals.
What does your typical day look like?
My day is structured to optimize both my physical progress and my professional growth as a coach. After 7-8 hours of sleep, essential for full recovery, I start my day with a breakfast designed to get me moving properly: 70g of oats mixed with 60g of whey protein and blueberries. This meal sets my nutritional platform for the day with a good serving of protein and early feeding of carbs for my training later in the day. I eat about 6 meals a day, including shakes.
I then dedicate some time to keeping up-to-date with the latest developments in the bodybuilding and coaching world, reviewing articles from industry leaders and following up on relevant insights. Before heading to the gym, I consume another moderate protein and high-carb meal to ensure I have the energy needed for an intense training session of about 1 to 1.5 hours. I bring with me an intra-workout shake that I drink while training.
While at the gym I train as hard as I can, checking my logbook and looking to hit new highs, chasing progression. At the same time, I am approachable and take questions between sets or exercises. I am always happy to help.
Post-workout, my focus remains on nutrition, consuming a meal high in carbohydrates to optimize recovery and take advantage of the nutrient partitioning advantages post-workout. This is also when I pivot towards my role as a thought leader and coach in the fitness community, planning and creating content for social media, which can include everything from workout tips to insights on the latest in scientifically sound and practically applied health and fitness. Much of the content might be based on media captured in the gym earlier.
My afternoons are often spent editing videos and podcasts or diving into the latest research in training and nutrition, ensuring that I’m not only up-to-date with the current trends but also ahead of them. I am also sure to get my 8k-10k steps in before dinner.
Evenings are reserved for family time, which is crucial for my work-life balance. It’s important to reconnect and relax with loved ones, grounding me in my personal life. My day concludes with some light reading on my Kindle, a habit that helps me wind down before another full day.
How do you spend your time outside of work?
Most of my time outside of work is dedicated to continually improving myself, but I always make sure there’s balance. I love learning new things in my field and pushing my limits at the gym, but spending quality time with my wife is just as important. We often go on dates or work out together, mixing our routines up a bit. It’s great because it keeps us connected and we both enjoy staying active.
Maintaining this balance helps keep everything in perspective for me. While I’m passionate about my career and personal development, having strong, supportive relationships at home is crucial. It’s about growing as a professional and as a person, making sure I’m grounded and happy in all parts of my life.
What are some of your goals for the future?
Looking ahead, I’m focused on expanding my business and influence to reach and help as many people as possible. My goal is always to provide the highest quality guidance and advice. I’m mindful that there’s a balance to strike; it’s possible to take on too many clients and stretch yourself too thin. While I’m ambitious and eager to grow, I’m committed to maintaining the quality of my service. I’ll never sacrifice the personal touch and attention each client deserves, because that’s what sets my coaching apart.
Ultimately I’d love for each one of my clients to be able to share their knowledge, and if not become a coach themselves someday at least help others to the best of their abilities.
Quickfire questions
– what’s the most important piece of advice you’d give yourself if you could go back in time to your arrival in Japan?
If I could give my past self some advice for my time in Japan, it would be to network as much as possible. Tokyo is a bustling, diverse city, and the relationships you build can truly power your life and open doors you never expected. It’s not just about finding opportunities for yourself; it’s also about understanding how you can contribute to others’ successes and what you can contribute. As you get older you will realize how gratifying this can be.
Take every chance to meet new people and nurture those connections. Explore the city to its fullest, immerse yourself in its culture, and seek out quality people who can enrich your life. You never know who might change your path or whose path you might change. Oh, and never underestimate the power of a smile!
– how do you learn new skills and what are you learning currently?
When it comes to picking up new skills, I’m largely self-taught. My curiosity isn’t just a passing interest; it pushes me to the point of obsession. I love to dig deep, discover new things, and really understand the mechanics behind what I’m learning. Right now, I’m engrossed in a coaching course designed by some of the top professionals in bodybuilding. They’ve essentially created a university for the sport, and it’s incredibly enriching.
Every day, there’s something new to learn, and as a coach, I believe the best approach is to blend your own experiences with those of others. This not only broadens your understanding but also expands what you can offer. It’s about constantly adding layers to your knowledge and applying these insights to help others achieve their best.
– tell me a few of your favourite or most recently read books, movies, podcasts, and games?
I usually juggle reading two books at a time, which keeps things interesting. Recently, I dove back into Neil Gaiman’s ‘American Gods’ [Amazon JP / Amazon US & other]. I’m a big fan of Gaiman’s work; his ability to weave complex mythology into modern narratives never ceases to inspire me.
At the same time, I was reading Simon Sinek’s ‘Start with Why’ [Amazon JP / Amazon US & other]. Sinek’s enthusiasm and positive approach to leadership and motivation really resonate with me. This blend of imaginative fiction and uplifting non-fiction helps me stay creatively charged and philosophically grounded, enriching both my personal outlook and my professional approach as a coach.
– what’s your favourite place to visit in Japan?
I’m not much of a traveler, but when I do get the chance to explore, I’m drawn to the shrines and temples here in Japan. There’s something about the deep, rich history they embody that really fascinates me. Each visit feels like a step back in time, offering a peaceful break from the daily rush and a chance to reflect amidst their serenity, impressive architecture and tangible history.
Coming from the US which is so young comparatively, Japan is always fascinating.
– what’s the best thing you’ve spent 10,000 JPY on in Japan?
Taking my daughter to Tokyo Disneyland for the first time – and many times thereafter.
Finally, do you have any asks for our readers?
I want to leave you with a thought: whatever it is that captures your heart and ignites your passion—give it everything you’ve got. Turning your passion into a career is an incredible achievement, but even if that doesn’t quite work out, you’ll still gain deep insights into your potential and learn more about yourself than you ever imagined. And you’ll do it without any regrets.
If my journey inspires you and you’re curious to see how far you can push your own limits, I encourage you to check out my content.
That’s a perfect place to finish. Always a pleasure speaking with you. Best of luck with your new career!
Find Matt on LinkedIn, Instagram and at CMT Physiques.
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