Speaking Programs
“In over a decade of working in education, I’ve seen numerous speakers discuss substance use and abuse, trauma, and grief. And, I can confidently say that Matt is the best I’ve ever seen! He speaks from the heart without any pretension. He looked our students in the eye and told his story, and our students responded in magical ways.”
William Thom
Director of Affective Education & Assistant Director of Counseling at Millbrook School
Overcome
In this deeply personal and raw presentation, Matt discusses the emotional trauma of losing his father on 9/11 and the irreparable damage it caused. He delves into his obsessive quest to discover exactly how his father died — and how his grief was compounded by being sexually assaulted. For years, Matt battled with drug and alcohol addiction. Arrests, rehabs, and near-death experiences were not enough to break these habits. It was only after a spiritual experience from his father that Matt experienced the defining moment that made him question his purpose, get sober, and lead the life his father would have wanted for him. Matt’s story is full of vulnerability and heartbreak — but also resilience and hope.
Audience: Middle & High School Students
9/12
Our world was forever changed on the morning of 9/11. People old enough to remember that fateful day can recollect precisely where they were as the events unfolded. They recall their sadness, grief, and anger. But how many people still discuss how they felt on 9/12? In the aftermath of 9/11, a seismic shift occurred in how people treated one another. There was a remarkable surge of unity, love, and belief in the enduring power of hope. In this presentation, Matt shares how the days after left an indelible mark on his life. He emphasizes the significance of embracing the “9/12” mentality — a motivational force that can guide us in the present and illuminate the path to a brighter, hopeful future.
Audience: Corporate, Community, & Conferences
Stained-glass windows
Stained-glass windows are captivating from a distance, with sunlight creating a vibrant display. What often remains hidden is that these intricate masterpieces comprise fragments of shattered glass, each playing its part in creating a spectacle transcending their individuality. In many ways, we share a parallel with these stained-glass windows. Behind a composed exterior, we often conceal our inner fractures—emotional and traumatic scars. As one draws nearer and delves deeper, the truth emerges. In this keynote, Matt explores the power of vulnerability, particularly in confronting our traumas, demonstrating how these wounds can serve as the foundation for personal growth and transformation.
Audience: High School & Colleges
Recent Engagements
Overcome: The Matthew Bocchi Story
Presented By: The Swampscott High School Health and Wellness Department & The Jauron Family Foundation
“In a compelling and searing manner, Matt spoke frankly of his experience of loss, of abuse, and of addiction leading to a pathway of healing, recovery and hope. The response he received - from students and teachers alike - made clear that his story of vulnerability touched our own human vulnerabilities. He inspired hope within all of us that, while life's challenges affect us, they need not define us. It was a grace to have Matt with us!”
Father James Heuser | SDB, President Salesian High School
Dw Documentary
The Children of 9/11 - Growing Up in the Shadow of Terror
“Matt pours into his audience with authenticity, relatability, and inspiration... It is a full circle moment to be able to have someone who was once a ‘client’ in the community now become a voice of hope for so many. We thank Matt for lending us his story and applaud him for all he is doing to break down barriers in seeking mental health support and overcoming substance misuse.”
SARA WINGERATH
Director, Tuesday’s Children