Meet Matthew Ferrara
“Aren’t you all dead?”
That's what most people say to me when I introduce myself as a philosopher. Thankfully, we're not all dead. Far from it, philosophers are all around us, leading innovative businesses, social organizations and the family next door. We're just like everyone else - for better or worse. And like most philosophers throughout the ages, I like to give speeches, write books and share (what I hope are) good ideas that improve the lives of friends, family and business clients.
For more than 30 years I've done philosophy as an entrepreneur, chief executive officer, professional speaker, online pioneer and business mentor. I've worked with leaders in real estate, sales, finance, marketing and association management, in 49 states and 30 countries. I've spoken to groups from 6 to 6000. Most of all, I share ideas that help individuals and organizations take control of their growth and create positive change in their personal and professional lives.
Thank you for choosing me to contribute to you and your company’s growth. I look forward to seeing what you do with the ideas. Wishing you great success!
~ Matthew
Why I Speak
For those little moments in which I can make a big difference:
One day, I was speaking to an audience about inner beliefs and personal drive. We discussed our self talk, our value and work, and our discipline and dreams. I shared stories of personal growth and ideas from successful people I know.
Afterwards, people applauded and shook my hand. There were hugs and smiles.
And then there was one moment that told me I was meant to be there that day:
After everyone had left, a man walked over and whispered: “I almost didn’t attend today. I was going to leave the business. I didn’t want to do it anymore. But after your words, I’m committed to keep going. I’m going to make next year my best year ever!”
I looked into his eyes and believed him.
And he gave me a hug.
That is why I speak!
Did you scroll this far?
Ok, then you might be surprised to learn…
I’m a two-time cancer survivor
I really do have a Degree in Philosophy
And a Degree in Political Economics
I love to write, mostly mystery stories for fun
I typically travel 250,000+ miles a year
I speak three languages (and read Latin)
Some of my photographs have been auctioned for charity; Follow me on Instagram
I co-host a writer’s retreat in Florence, Italy (I went to school in Bologna)
I’ve run a successful subscription newsletter on Substack
- and have generated a few decent quotes
I’m the Dean of Innovation for Leading Real Estate Companies of the World
I’m a co-author and Faculty of Anywhere’s Ascend: Executive Leadership Experience
My career has taken me to over 30 countries
I have an amazing wife
I live in Las Vegas
I have three cats
I’m a Rotarian
I shoot Nikon
Finally, A Trip Down Memory Lane…
1991: Started First Sales Training/Marketing Consulting Firm
1994: Regional VP, RE Educators Association
1997: Rhode Island Educator of the Year
1999: Reached 49 States teaching Marketing/Sales/Tech
2001: Launched National Help Desk Service
2003: Launched New England-Based Telecom
2005: Launched Online Video Learning Service
2008: Launched The Learning Network, LLC leadership
2012: Co-Authored “Ascend” and “Maestro” Leadership Development Courses
2013: Relocated Firm to Las Vegas, NV
2016: Became Co-Owner: Art of Writing Retreat, Florence, Italy
2017: Launched Resident Philosopher Mentor Program
2018: Co-Faculty/Author, Training Magazine Program of the Year Award Recipient
2018: Became Resident Philosopher for firms including LeadingRE, Engel & Volkers, MoxiWorks
and Gibson Sotheby’s International Realty