Episode 69 - Matteson Perry [Screenwriter | Storyteller]

Matteson Perry discusses winning The Moth Grand Slam, his writing process and why it is ok to ask for things in this episode. Enjoy!

Show Notes:

8:41 - Matteson’s writing process in the early morning.

9:38 - The double rejection of MBA school and the girlfriend.

13:10 - The chocolate heart story.

15:07 - Valuable lessons learned during his year of being single.

20:05 - How writing an essay that was placed in the New York Times ended up being a big break.

22:08 - “The best thing about writing is that you don’t need anyone’s permission.”

25:23 - The emotions after winning The Moth Grand Slam.

28:38 - “You don’t tell people about your victories, you tell people about your failures.”

33:35 - Matteson’s favorite season of The Wire.

37:00 - How has Matteson been able to stay so disciplined with his writing.

39:00 - There is a difference between being nice and being kind.

39:44 - “It’s ok to ask for things … it doesn’t mean you have lost if you ask for something.”

How to reach Matteson: Website | Twitter

Book Recommendations:

“Exit West” by Mohsin Hamid

“The Sympathizer” by Viet Thanh Nguyen

“Why Buddism is True” by Robert Wright