We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Matt Martinez a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Matt, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you share an important lesson you learned in a prior job that’s helped you in your career afterwards?

Giving 25 years of your life, to a company that used the best of what you had to offer only to throw you out like yesterday’s leftovers without a care in the world. No severance deal. No thanks for 25 years of loyal service. Nothing.

Life is way too short to not get what you need out of life. Just love each day like it’s your last day on earth. Love unconditionally. Give generously. Be humble. Stay grounded. Set your sights., and fire away.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am a 50 year old artist, cyclist, photographer that LOVES life passionately. I cycle and take pictures of everything. I draw and paint interesting creatures using paints and other media.

I rescue snakes and insects from being killed on the trails by putting them back in nature further away from harm (humans).

I’m a husband to my best friend. Father to two beautiful daughters. Grand father to my daughters cute puppy named Rocket.

I’m also the founder of the Zombie Bicycle Club since 2010. We have lots of cyclists of all ages, with one mission in mind-BE FAST. We ride long and hard, training several times a week to reach our maximum potential. We have guys and girls who win races a lot. We are podium chasers.

Even with all the ups and downs, life is grand. Make the best of it.

Have you ever had to pivot?

I was furloughed from a company after 25 years of service. Dropped like a bottle of expensive champagne.

It has been really tough trying to find work during the pandemic. It has made me realize that there are zero guarantees in life. All you can do is adapt and overcome whatever obstacles are in front of you.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is to see peoples reactions to my art and photography. I think it touches people differently. I love engaging in conversation about the photo or piece I created. I also LOVE seeing my art and photography on display in peoples homes and offices. The money helps too.

Contact Info:

• Website: Chickenfriedzombies.com
• Instagram: Chickenfriedzombies
• Facebook: Matt Isa Martian
• Youtube: Chickenfriedzombies