Not Verified
New Orleans, Louisiana, United States
@matt-stephen-1
Member since 2026
I’m a proud father, artist, and longtime New Orleans resident who has built a life around people, community, and celebration. My purpose is rooted in passion for bringing humans together and centered around cultural celebration, community and nonprofit productions. I’m mechanically inclined, calm by nature, and genuinely enjoy being useful and present wherever I am.
Interested in Art
Interested in Burning Man
Interested in Cooking
Fluent in English
Why I'm on Couchsurfing
I love hosting! Kindness and goodwill are universal languages regardless of where we're from or where we've been. "It's all in what we learn along the way" is a cliche statement that gets tossed around at lot but, at it's essence, we find pureness in connection with others regardless of background. That space is where we find our humanity and something I strive to bring to others and myself. I travel to learn and gather inspiration and regional experience from the heart of it's creators. I value learning how people belong to a place, how they live, gather, celebrate, and take care of one another. Living in New Orleans has inspired me to dive deeper. I’m not interested in rushing or checking boxes; I’m here to listen, observe, and connect in a meaningful, respectful way.
Teach, Learn, Share
I believe travel works best when it’s an exchange. I love learning from others, especially about local traditions, food, music, and daily rhythms and I also enjoy sharing what I know. I’ve spent years teaching and collaborating hands-on projects like float building, folk costume, leatherwork, and supporting large-scale art installations, often in volunteer or nonprofit settings. Whether it’s working with my hands, sharing stories, or learning something completely new, I value experiences that are mutual and grounded.
What I Can Share With Hosts
As a guest, I’m respectful, tidy, and easygoing. I’m happy to help around the house, fix things, cook, or contribute however is useful. I bring curiosity, good conversation, and a calm presence. I also love the idea of reciprocity. I’d be glad to host fellow Couchsurfers in New Orleans in the future and return the generosity I’m shown. More than anything, I aim to leave places and people better than I found them. I’m mindful of people’s time, space, and routines, and I try to be a guest who adds ease rather than disruption.