With over three decades of experience in setting up and running small businesses \u2014 alongside a career in film, television and publishing \u2014 John brings a uniquely practical, commercially focused approach to coaching. His new venture offers one-to-one sessions and courses for those looking to change direction professionally, expand existing businesses, improve their use of media, or develop creative projects, including books and films. A key part of his approach is not just how to make change, but how to budget for it effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
John is the founder of Bigger Picture Studios, established in 2003 \u2014 a production company whose work has reached audiences in over 60 countries and more than 70 million viewers worldwide. His career path is anything but conventional: beginning as a butcher, moving into radio and later television, and ultimately building a successful international production business from the loft of a terraced house.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
He has written and produced multiple books, including bestsellers Grand Prix: The Killer Years and Butcher Boy, and has produced more than ten films. His work has earned significant industry recognition, including a BAFTA longlisting and a Grierson nomination, alongside multiple awards at international festivals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2018I used to be a butcher and I ended up running a business, creating work sold all over the world, employing dozens of people in multiple languages. If I can make change like that, anyone can. The trick is to get going.\u2019<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cI\u2019m not interested in theory or patronising people,\u201d says Matthews. \u201cI care about helping people get results. I know what it takes to make significant change as I have done it several times, and I can save people a lot of wasted time and money. Whether that\u2019s creating something meaningful, building a business, or making money from their ideas.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
John has pitched successfully to major broadcasters and organisations including the BBC, ITV, Channel 4 and Discovery, and has lectured in creativity, writing and filmmaking at several universities. He has also coached individuals privately for many years. His coaching draws on hands-on experience, combining creative insight with commercial awareness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Client feedback highlights his direct, focused approach and his ability to build confidence while turning ideas into structured, achievable plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One recent client said:\u2028\u201cJohn believed in me when I didn\u2019t believe in myself. He helped me turn my idea into something clear and practical, and kept me moving forward rather than overthinking. Three months later, what I have created is already thriving.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another added:\u2028\u201cI learned more in one morning than I had on a six-week course. Focused, practical \u2014 John gets results.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
John\u2019s coaching also places a strong emphasis on clarity, safety and sustainable growth \u2014 helping clients not only develop ideas, but build projects that are structured, viable and meaningful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The new enterprise builds on the success of his long-running \u201cFirst 10 Pages\u201d creative initiative and private courses, now expanded into a broader coaching offering for business owners, professionals, entrepreneurs, creatives looking to make significant change now.<\/p>\n\n\n\n