From Fairways to Film to Finance and More: The Evolution of Craig Matthew

In this episode of Local Legends with Jess, meet Craig Matthew — a dynamic leader whose journey spans elite athletics, music, entrepreneurship, film, and now finance.Craig made history at The Ohio State University as the first golfer to earn both Athletic All-American and Academic All-American honors in consecutive years. He went on to compete professionally, becoming a champion on the PGA Tour’s Mackenzie Tour and winning the Canadian Amateur Championship. Jess dives into what it truly means to be an All-American — the discipline, emotional control, daily routines, and mindset that separate good from great, on and off the course.But Craig’s story doesn’t stop with golf.Music has always been woven into his life. A self-taught guitarist inspired by his father and close friends, early jam sessions planted the seed for something bigger. After stepping away from professional golf at 37, a key connection led to recording original music and music videos. Craig has owned and operated several coffee shops, expanded into creative projects, and stepped into acting in multiple independent films. He also serves on the Board of Directors for Movies Making A Difference, a nonprofit producing feature films that raise awareness and funds to combat human trafficking and support survivors.From championship golf to creative arts, business ownership, philanthropy, and now finance, Craig’s path reflects adaptability, courage, reinvention, and the willingness to evolve without losing his core identity.Golf. Music. Coffee. Film. Charity. Finance.What’s next for Craig Matthew?Tune in to hear how passion, discipline, and purpose continue to shape every chapter of his journey.These are the local legends shaping our communities.Real stories, real talk, and powerful conversations.Local Legends with Jess — where Arizona’s stories connect.