How It All Began
A Mission From Mom
19 Years Old In The Outback
The spring of 2002, months after Matt graduated from High School, he was set to go to the Australian Outback. His parents felt three months roughing it would be beneficial. A month before he was to leave his mother, Karen, was diagnosed with a terminal brain cancer. He of course wanted to cancel his trip, but she told him “this trip isn’t for you”, his mother insisted he go.
He was terrified that she would pass away while he was gone. It’s understandable, that a boy was scared to lose his mom. But the truth is Karen Panelli wouldn’t have been OK if he hadn’t gone. Like she said, it wasn’t about him.
Matt made the trip and when he arrived home. He spent the next few months helping his father care for his mom while he resumed working. She would succumb to her illness February 2003, a year after her diagnosis.
It was devastating for him; it’s easy to be bitter when life serves such a bitter lemon at such a young age. Matt has always strived to be positive, no matter what. His positivity is what fuels him to Never Give Up!
Matt, at a recent speaking engagement
Turning Inspiration Into Impact: How One Message Sparked a Motivational Speaking Career
After surviving cancer and enduring a decade-long battle with Multiple Sclerosis, he found himself facing not just physical challenges, but the heavy shadow of depression. Refusing to be defined by illness or limitation, he set an audacious goal: to climb Mount Kilimanjaro. Step by grueling step, he conquered not just the mountain, but a lifetime of hardship and self-doubt. Upon his return, many friends and strangers alike insisted he share his inspiring journey. With a story of resilience, courage, and determination, he was told he could inspire countless others—and that he should become a motivational speaker.
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Meet The Crew
Chris "Godxilla" Taylor
Audio/Editor
When Matt decided he was going to take the task of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro on one of the first people he spoke to was Chris. The two of them met at the YMCA and fast became friends. Matt had appeared as an extra in a few of the music videos that Chris was directing. When he got the thought to film himself climbing the mountain Chris seemed like the natural place for Matt to start asking questions.
Edward "Maced Marchi" Macias
Cameraman
Eddie is a living breathing camera. As a member of the Mountaintop production team. Eddie is a master of keeping the camera angles entertaining. He is also a great stills photographer. He has a great eye for what looks great.