Standing with People rather than System with Matt Anderson

Matt Anderson is the youngest of six children. Growing up in Pittsburgh, he had a wide range of interests, including sports, arts, skateboarding, snowboarding, lacrosse, and outdoor activities like mountain biking and backpacking. During high school, he wasn't particularly interested in traditional academic subjects, and his focus was on creative and outdoor pursuits.

His life took a different turn when he attended college in Montana, where he pursued his undergraduate degree and later a Master's in Social Work at the University of Montana. During this time, he developed a passion for learning, education, and politics.

According to Matt, being a lobbyist or working in government affairs puts you in the interpersonal relations industry. It's not the job for you if you don't like what you're doing, it doesn't make you excited and motivated, and it doesn't let you use your creativity. You must genuinely enjoy interacting with and working with people.

What, according to Matt, is crucial in a child's education to enhance their engagement with the government and its processes?

What is the best advice Matt received about his work and personal values?

What can we learn from Matt's 10-year experience as a lobbyist?

What excites Matt about the future? Let's join Matt's personal journey in this new episode of State Lobbying Heroes!