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Ben There. Done That.

(And I Lived to Tell About It)

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Ben There. Done That.

(And I lived to tell about it.)

Things I have been
linking to
looking at
listening to
watching
writing …

Ben: Professional.

Professionally speaking, I’m a union staffer and advocate, a creator & designer. I’m an extroverted introvert who appreciates working alone in a coffee shop surrounded by people.

Advocate.

My “real job” is as a union staffer for the Illinois Education Association. While the IEA/NEA may agree with some of what I write here, they certainly don’t endorse it. My thoughts, words, links, etc. are my own.

I believe in people over profit. I believe in the importance of collective bargaining and collective action. I believe workers should have the right to organize. And I strongly support public education and public education employees. I suppose that means my job is a good fit for me.

Artist.

In my free-time, and when I can make the time, I do freelance creative and design work through bamdesign.net.

My design work gives me a creative outlet, and allows me the opportunity to partner with businesses, charities, events and organizations I support. If you’re looking for a logo, graphic or print design, or some web development (mostly utilizing StudioPress on the WordPress platform), let me know!

Learn more about bamdesign.net.

Etc.

I’m a (slow) triathlete, and train/race/hangout with GRF. I like taking in live music or listening while a vinyl spins on my U-Turn Audio turntable, and find joy singing and playing my guitar.  I’m actively engaged and involved in politics (it’s ok if you don’t like my politics – we can still be friends). I devote time to causes and charities I support, running annually to support St. Jude, serving on the organizing committee for the State Farm Holiday Classic, helping a number of local charities, and providing creative work for the Pujols Family Foundation.

Ben: Social.

Feel free to connect & follow (but, I should warn you: Twitter is where I get a little more political and may use language NSFW).

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • Snapchat
  • Twitter
  • Vimeo
  • YouTube

Ben: Blogging.

Sometimes I write. Sometimes I don’t. Sometimes I just link to interesting things that I’ve been listening to, looking at, or reading.

Thoughts on a New School Year

Ben Matthews · August 24, 2020

I need to learn to love my own smile

Ben Matthews · January 2, 2018

A Pep Talk from Kid President to You

Ben Matthews · January 31, 2013

The Facts Make It Clear: Public Workers and Unions Are Not Overpaid

Ben Matthews · July 3, 2012

Ben There. Done That.

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  • Home
  • Ben: Linking.
  • Ben: Listening.
  • Ben: Looking.
  • Ben: Watching.
  • Ben: Writing.