Becoming EPIC: How Excellence, Perception, Inspiration, and Compassion Can Be a Remedy for Mediocrity

American Legacy Book Awards Finalist

Becoming EPIC is not the job of giants; it is in the details and decisions each of us must face every day.

In a complex world where challenges seem to multiply every day, how do you rise above and thrive rather than stay mired in mediocrity? Dr. Matthew Kutz provides the road map for achieving lasting success and fulfillment in the four EPIC principles: Excellence, Perception, Inspiration, and Compassion.

Drawing on cutting-edge research, personal experiences, and powerful examples, Kutz guides you through actionable steps to integrate these four maxims into all aspects of your life. Whether you want to excel in your career, become a better leader, build deeper relationships, or motivate others, Becoming EPIC offers practical tools and wisdom to help you stay aligned with your goals, overcome setbacks, and become the best version of yourself.

Like David in the Old Testament—the ultimate underdog—we are flawed. But if we choose to recognize our faults and challenge ourselves to grow and change, we too have the potential to live an epic story that celebrates humility, determination, and purpose, no matter what obstacles the world throws at us.

With poignant insights from leaders, innovators, and everyday heroes, this book shows how embodying EPIC values can lead to a life of purpose, resilience, and meaningful impact. Prepare to embark on a journey of transformation that will unlock your full potential and empower you to lead a life grounded in personal growth and success.

Matt Kutz, PHD, AT, BCC, FNAP, is a husband, father, grandpa, and friend.

In his spare time, he is a clinical professor in the Doctor of Athletic Training program at Florida International University and a leadership educator, keynote speaker, and consultant. His clients include Fortune 500 and multinational organizations like Procter & Gamble, the National Football League, the Cleveland Clinic, Airtel, and Gold Coast Health (Queensland, Australia). For fun, Matt enjoys “competing” recreationally in triathlons, 5Ks, and 10Ks.

He loves to travel and has:

• trekked an active volcano to find endangered mountain gorillas in Uganda,

• cage-dove with great white sharks off the coast of South Africa,

• walked the Great Wall of China,

• hiked the Georgia leg of the Appalachian Trail,

• visited Bag End (fictional Hobbit Hole of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins) in New Zealand,

• visited the ancient Library of Celsius in Ephesus, Turkey,

• taken a gondola ride with the most beautiful woman in the world on the Grand Canal in Venice,

• snorkeled the Great Barrier Reef,

• eaten at about twenty-five (and counting) of the places featured on Guy Fieri’s show Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, and

• appeared on an episode of House Hunters International on HGTV.