Matthew Guilbault is Associate Director, State Government Affairs at Novartis. In this wide ranging interview, we discuss how he got into lobbying, the pros and cons of being a contract lobbyist, racing motorcycles, and more. Matt studied to be a pilot before deciding to focus on pre-law studies at the College of St. Rose. He got his first job in politics for a State Senator after networking at the restaurant he worked at in Albany. After almost seven years working at the New York General Assembly, Matt transitioned to an in-house lobbying position. After 10 years working in-house, he worked as a contract lobbyist. Matt owns 7 motorcycles, and used to race them professionally. Matt's current position is with Novartis, as Associate Director of Government Affairs He now covers New York, Maine, and Vermont Help us grow! Leave us a rating and review - it's the best way to bring new listeners to the show.  Have a suggestion, or want to chat with Jim? Email him at: Jim@theLobbyingShow.com Follow The Lobbying Show on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for weekly updates about the show, our guests, and more.