Matthew was born and raised in rural Altavista, Virginia. After earning his degree in Business Management from Lynchburg College, he went on to own two small businesses. As economic times worsened, he became a "stay-at-home dad," helping his wife, Wendy, raise their little boy.  Matthew gives credit to years of watching Andy Griffith TV reruns for his inspiration in how to raise a child. When he's not mopping floors, changing diapers or watching Barney Fife's latest mishap, Matthew spends time writing music for his contemporary Christian band, "Pier 19" (which is based on Matthew 4:19). He co-founded the band in 2006, and they are now working on their first CD.