We recently had the chance to connect with Matthew Shapiro Esq. and have shared our conversation below.
Matthew, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
Outside of my professional life, I just so happened to be in the right place at the right time to save a young man’s life who was at severe risk of drowning in the ocean at Sunset Cliffs. I’ve been in the ocean for essentially my entire life so instinct struck and I put on my lifeguard hat and took a leap of faith. Proud to say that other than some frazzled nerves on both the rescuer and rescued parts, everybody walked away unscathed. It’s absolutely critical to always know your limits when it comes to the ocean.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I started my business The Law Offices of Matthew Shapiro, APC at a tipping point in the cannabis legalization movement. The early days were marked by criminal defense and some very interesting returns of herbal property, which at the time was somewhat out of the ordinary to put it lightly. As the industry continues to mature, so does the practice into other areas such as regulatory compliance, land use, and policy advocacy.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My Aunt Carla had a shocking level of belief and confidence in me before I had quite developed to the point that she said were written in the stars. She’s been there for me since the beginning and I can only hope she’ll continue to be there for me for many years to come.
When did you last change your mind about something important?
If I’m not changing my mind about something important at least once or twice a month I’m either not paying enough attention or the world suddenly became a boring monotonous place. Readers can guess as to which of those two is more likely.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What important truth do very few people agree with you on?
Easy. KISS principle. Keep It Simple Stupid. I don’t care how intelligent or otherwise you find yourself. Simplicity is the key to being effective and happy. Though there may be notable exceptions in certain areas, but the concept stands true generally.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
When I introduced my friend and client African musician Seun Kuti and a gentleman by the name of Carlos Santana together and they made magical music together. Black Times (NOT the radio edit!). The Grammy nomination and attending both the Grammys and the surrounding parties was…an interesting experience.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.shapiro.legal
