Today we’d like to introduce you to Matt Drayton.
Hi Matt, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
I was born and raised in Savannah. I spent my childhood playing sports in Forsyth Park and running around downtown on the squares and River Street. After graduating from Richard Arnold High School, I briefly worked at The Pirates House and M&M Supermarkets before joining the US Army, where I served for 26 years before retiring. The Army provided me an opportunity to develop as an adult, travel, and learn valuable lessons about leadership and responsibility.
After retiring from the Army, I founded my business, Drayton Communications LLC, focusing on leadership development. I became a public speaker, author, and voice actor. I also started volunteering as a mentor for at-risk youth. I have written two books and have been published in major news outlets and other media. I have been employed by commercial businesses, academic institutions, law enforcement, and government agencies.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey has not been a smooth road, but I wouldn’t change a thing about my journey. My mother died when I was very young, and my family did not have a lot of money. Growing up under-resourced really impacted my self-esteem. I remember having to wear the same clothes to school on consecutive days. I also struggled with discipline during my early years, especially in school.
As an adult, most of the challenges I faced were leadership challenges and the struggles all spouses and parents go through. I believe obstacles and challenges are essential to our development as leaders and helps us as we strive towards being successful.
As you know, we’re big fans of Drayton Communications LLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about the brand?
I have written two books about leadership and productivity. I also speak to businesses and academic institutions write and do podcasts on the subject. I truly believe that the lack of leadership, not just in business but everywhere, is the primary cause of most of the world’s problems.
I enjoy sharing my life story and my experiences from my military and corporate careers with aspiring leaders. I feel an obligation to share what I know and give back. I also do voiceover work, which is something I started doing a few years ago. I am a member of the National Speakers Association.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
My favorite novel is “The Sweetness of Water” by Nathan Harris. I also love the book “Big Trouble” by Dave Barry; it was really funny! My favorite apps are Fitbit, Visible Body, Facebook, Instagram, Apple Music and Vrbo. I love traveling, working out, and staying active.
Contact Info:
- Website: mattdrayton.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mdraytonlivellc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drayton.communications
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-drayton-58a2634b/
- Other: https://www.amazon.com/Leading-While-Black-Leadership-Professional-ebook/dp/B0C1HS7T1M/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1JS0YNUW1C7P9&keywords=leading+while+black+drayton&qid=1700241037&sprefix=leading+while+black+drayton%2Caps%2C67&sr=8-1
