ITPI has a new Director of Flow, Function and Strategy. His name is Matt Winters. In this new position, Matt supports strategic planning, oversees core operations and steers systems design to advance the organization’s mission. He leads a committed team and partners with the president to guide ITPI through its current phase of renewal and growth. Get to know Matt in this interview.
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Can you describe yourself in 25 words or less?
I’m an empathic explorer, committed to growth, integrity and connection. Attuned to difference, I hold space for change—with tenderness, clarity and a reverence for becoming.
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How did you become involved in ITP? And are you currently a member of any ITP group?
I was trained as an integral coach at New Ventures West in 2020. The course’s methodology book mentions the ITP Kata several times as a practice that’s highly recommended for some clients. I wanted to experience it myself before recommending it, so I found the organization, reached out, connected with Pam and started attending some public Kata sessions. I’m not currently a member of an ITP group.
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Within your practice, what insights have you experienced that have made the biggest impact in your daily life?
Having physical metaphors for situations I encounter in daily life has been very helpful. In a situation that seems new or daunting, I might remember one of the Kata movements and think “Oh, I already know how to do that.”
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What ITP practice resource/exercise/quote has been most helpful in your transformative journey?
The Core Practice Intentions have been powerful for me. I have them taped to the inside of my apartment door so I’m reminded of them whenever I step out. Even simple things, like having the reminder about cardio and strength training, have influenced how often I go to the gym and what I do there.
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Have you participated in any ITP programs and if so, what resources or teachings have benefitted you most from the experience?
I participated in On the Ground Running, which helped me appreciate many of the ways the Kata benefits the body and especially the brain. In Grounding Through Change, I developed version 1.0 of my affirmations. And I also attended part of the recent Silent Pulse retreat, which helped me slow down and appreciate more of the unseen.
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What is one affirmation you currently have/or had that has been particularly helpful in realizing your own extraordinary capacities?
I am safe, supported and free.
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Do you have any favorite books, podcasts or newsletters that align with and support your practice?
One podcast that supports my practice is The Healing Feeling Sh*t Show. It’s a candid, playful and educational podcast that teaches you how to feel your feelings so you can heal—emotionally, psychologically and physically. It’s hosted by psychotherapist Rachel Kaplan, and blends humor, neuroscience and real talk to guide you through the messiness of emotional maturity.
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What ways have ITP and this practice supported your work/engagement in the larger community and world?
Well, my ITP practice led me to an unexpected and awesome new professional role—that’s pretty significant.
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What brings you joy these days?
Cooking. I developed a practice early in the pandemic of cooking huge batches of food. This past weekend I made four gallons of my current favorite South Indian dal recipe, and then froze it into bricks to enjoy over the next month. The process is kind of intense but also deeply satisfying—hitting a sweet spot between high organization and creative, adaptive flow. That, and dancing.
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Any additional comments you would like to add about ITP?
ITP is a treasure, and I’m excited to help share it with more people.