This One is For the Birds! "A Little Birdie Told Me..." Now Available!

Last summer, when I found myself among the many whose careers were put on hold due to the impacts of COVID-19, I shared my experiences and elements of my journey on LinkedIn as I looked for new jobs and grappled with self doubt and fears of the unknown. I wrote a series of blogs, chronicling the events as they unfolded and told my story with vulnerability and humility. It became quite therapeutic for me, almost as therapeutic as the hobby I discovered during this same time: birding (which was actually the subject of several of those blog posts).

I found myself becoming immersed in this new hobby, not just for the opportunity it provided to think, reflect, and gain clarity, but for the lessons I learned along the way. Things such as positivity, perspective, patience, persistence, preparation, and the continuous pursuit of excellence, among other lessons. I also realized that these lessons applied to every role I held in life -- as a father, a friend, sibling, son, spouse, and certainly, as a professional and a member of society in general.

So, when I went back to work in September 2020, I had the idea to write one last blog as part of that series with a final tribute to the birds, who helped me find hope, happiness and peace during that trying time. But then, I quickly realized this story deserved more. The birds deserved more. And so, the idea for this book was born. And I wanted the people who are still looking for their next door to open, those still wondering if it’s okay to believe in possibilities, to have this book. For today and whenever they start to wonder those things. I want to have it, too.

I sat down to write the first draft on September 15 and I am pleased to finally share the news the book -- A Little Birdie Told Me....A Journey to Find Hope, Happiness and the Wings to Fly -- has been published by Fig Factor Media Publishing and is now available on Amazon in paperback and soon hardcover, audio and kindle versions. I am blessed and appreciative of all of those who have supported me during this journey. If you'd like to purchase a copy, I'd be forever grateful! The synopsis and "advanced praise" can be seen below.

Thank you and happy reading!

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When Matthew Papuchis, a father of three on the cusp of his fortieth birthday, found himself unemployed for the first time in more than 25 years, he battled self-doubt as he looked for hope and happiness—and a new job—amid a global pandemic. During this trying time, while continuing to pursue new career paths, he discovered the hope and happiness he was seeking in an unsuspecting place—nature paths. And via an unsuspecting source—birds. Little ones and big ones and the preserves, parks, and wildlife refuges they called home, all within miles of Matt’s house in Plantation, Florida. 

He discovered by exploring a relatively unknown world and taking the time to think and reflect, while in search of those hidden gems, he found peace, clarity, and himself. Matt also learned lessons that apply to everyday life. Each chapter focuses on one lesson, including those on perspective and positivity. Above all, he learned to never lose hope in the possibilities that are out there, for himself and all of us.

The book will make you laugh, cry and leave you with nuggets of wisdom and inspiration as you learn what the little—and big—birdies told him.

Advanced Praise for A Little Birdie Told Me… 

“This inspiring book has something for everyone. Matt has masterfully and seamlessly weaved his story into life lessons, some provided from the difficult part of his journey. A Little Birdie Told Me… will resonate with bird lovers, baseball fans, and all those in between.” –  Tim Kurkjian, New York Times Best-Selling Author and Major League Baseball Analyst for ESPN 

“A Little Birdie Told Me…is a book that offers inspiration and valuable learnings for all readers, including business leaders and those who want to become a more empathetic and understanding executive. The lessons Matthew shares during his journey of self-reflection are relatable and applicable to all of us and I recommend this book to fellow hoteliers, parents, and citizens of the world.” – Hervé J.L. Humler, Chairman Emeritus, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company 

“A delightful read — Matt has such an easy way with words. He skillfully weaves important life lessons around his newfound passion for birds, discovered during the pandemic lockdown. We can all relate to the wise lessons in this book and laugh at some of the amusing experiences Matt shared. By the end of this book, you will feel like you and Matt are old friends.” – Peter G. Kaestner, World's No. 1 eBirder with 9,294 Species Observed 

“A Little Birdie Told Me… is an absorbing set of life lessons forged from a journey through nature and self-reflection. Whether in crisis or calm, this book demonstrates the power of being more fully attendant to naturally occurring beauty, tranquility, and majesty. If you’re ready to venture down an insightful path to peace, purposefulness, and success, it’s time to step into this book.” – Joseph Michelli, PhD, New York Times No. 1 Best-Selling author of books like Stronger Through Adversity, The Airbnb Way, and Leading the Starbucks Way 

“A Little Birdie Told Me... is not about COVID, losing your job, or birding. COVID offers context, job loss represents the unexpected challenges life can throw at any of us, and birding illustrates how being receptive to the wonders of the world can enrich our lives and feed our souls. The narrative is honest, vulnerable, and inspiring. Papuchis is masterful at inviting readers to embrace the work on their terms. His approach is consistent with the sentiment expressed by Kahlil Gibran's famous quote: "If he is indeed wise, he does not bid you enter the house of his wisdom, but rather leads you to the threshold of your mind." Enjoy this wonderful read and buy a copy for someone you love.” – Leo Bottary, author of three books, including Peennovation: What Peer Advisory Groups Can Teach Us About Building High-Performing Teams