Meet Matt De Reno

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

Matt, first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

Imposter syndrome is something I’ve battled throughout my career. That nagging feeling of self-doubt and the fear that you’re not truly deserving of your accomplishments can be crippling. But I’ve come to learn a perspective that has helped me, and I believe it can help you too.

One of the most liberating realizations I’ve had is that people are just people. Whether it’s the CEO of a Fortune 500 company or a renowned entrepreneur, they are fundamentally no different than you or me. They’ve experienced self-doubt, faced failures, and questioned their worth.

When you remember that everyone has their own struggles and insecurities, it helps to normalize your own feelings. It’s comforting to know that you’re not alone in this. The truth is, everyone is figuring it out as they go.

One powerful tool in overcoming imposter syndrome is adopting a mindset of neutral thinking. It’s neither good nor bad, deserving or undeserving—things simply are. You are where you are because of a series of actions and decisions, just like everyone else.

By removing the emotional weight of judgment, you can focus on your growth and contributions without the constant self-criticism. Neutral thinking allows you to see yourself as a work in progress, just like everyone else.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

My business, Scratch Wrjiting, Inc. (ScratchWriting.com) is structured like a pyramid, but don’t worry, it’s not a scheme! At the top is my true passion—publishing books. In the middle are my community websites and blogs, and at the base are the business services that keep everything running smoothly.

Publishing books has always been my first love. I poured my heart and soul into my sci-fi thriller, The Midas Protocol: Midas Files Book One, and I’m thrilled to be working on the second book in the series. Writing books allows me to explore fascinating worlds and complex characters, offering readers an escape and a new perspective.

Wearing two hats—one as an author and the other as a publisher—is no small feat. It’s a delicate dance between creative writing and the logistical aspects of getting a book to market. It’s a challenge I relish, though, because it gives me complete control over my work.

The middle tier of my pyramid consists of community websites and blogs. These platforms offer a space for engagement, education, and entertainment, contributing to the local and global community. I run a directory and lifestyle website for my hometown, Pittsburgh, PA, called “Across Pittsburgh” (AcrossPittsburgh.com). This site serves as a go-to resource for locals and tourists alike, offering insights into the best places to visit, eat, and enjoy.

On ScratchWriting.com, I maintain a series of blogs that cover a variety of topics from fiction writing, website development, movie reviews, sustainable transportation, and more.

At the base of my pyramid are the business services that keep the lights on and the bills paid. These services include technical writing, content development, copywriting, and content strategy.

I’m excited to announce that I’m slated to have my second book out by the end of the year—Call of The Minotaur: Midas Files Book Two! It’s been a labor of love, and I can’t wait to share it with you all.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

In the realm of business, the journey is seldom a straight line; it is often fraught with obstacles and unexpected challenges. Here, qualities such as persistence, a commitment to continuous learning, and the ability to pivot when necessary become essential for success.

Those who remain steadfast in their goals, even when confronted with setbacks, are more likely to achieve long-term success. Coupled with persistence, the willingness to embrace ongoing education is crucial for navigating the complexities of the business landscape. Acquiring new skills and adapting to change enables individuals and organizations to remain relevant and competitive.

Flexibility is equally vital, as the capacity to adjust strategies in response to unforeseen circumstances can differentiate stagnation from growth. Lastly, maintaining a sense of humor throughout this journey can provide much-needed relief during stressful moments, fostering a positive environment that encourages creativity and collaboration.
Ultimately, the blend of persistence, learning, adaptability, and humor cultivates a resilient mindset essential for thriving in the ever-evolving business world. This has worked for me and I believe it can work for you.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

As I continue on this journey with Scratch Writing, I am also looking to partner with writers, both fiction and non-fiction, as well as other creative individuals who are interested in collaborating with a small indie publisher. The goal is to foster a nurturing environment where creativity can flourish, and unique narratives can emerge. By teaming up with talented authors and artists, we can explore fresh ideas and innovative projects that resonate with diverse audiences. If you have a compelling story to tell or a creative vision to share, I invite you to join me in this exciting venture where our collective passions can find a home in the literary world.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.scratchwriting.com/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattdereno/
• Other: https://www.amazon.com/Midas-Protocol-Files-Book-One/dp/1735974013