Meet the Team

My name is Matt “The Hammer” Hamill. I was born deaf and raised in Loveland, Ohio. Growing up, I navigated an education system that did not always provide the academic support I needed. My family taught me to speak, and I did not learn sign language until the eighth grade. These early challenges shaped my resilience and determination. I began wrestling at the age of six and went on to find success at both the high school and collegiate levels. I later pursued a career as a professional MMA fighter and UFC athlete. My passion has grown beyond athletics into advocacy for the Deaf community. I have traveled internationally as a motivational speaker and continue to mentor athletes of all levels. Hosting The Hammer Deaf Expo is one meaningful way I advocate for accessibility, opportunity, and inclusion.

AJ Hiller was born in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Penn State University in 1999. AJ built a successful leadership career with Walmart before founding MMA Signatures LLC, one of the largest mixed martial arts autograph companies in the world. He has been close friends with Matt Hamill for nearly 20 years and managed Matt’s career for approximately a decade. Together, they co-wrote Matt Hamill’s autobiography, Silent Fight. Today, AJ continues to focus on business development, entertainment, fitness, and community growth.

Marie is an ASL teacher and certified Teacher of the Deaf in Michigan. She graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Deaf Education and identifies as Hard of Hearing. Marie was also a nationally recognized archer and competed in the 2004 Olympic Trials. She is the founder and director of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing program at Equest Center for Therapeutic Riding. Marie joined the Hammer Deaf Expo team in June 2024.

Robert Bush is a cybersecurity student at ECPI University and holds an Associate of Applied Science in Network Management. Born deaf, Robert graduated from the Eastern North Carolina School for the Deaf in 1996. He has been involved in many community-driven events and is passionate about technology, accessibility, and bringing people together. Robert looks forward to helping make The Hammer Deaf Expo a powerful and lasting success.

Jason Brown is from Okanogan, Washington, and is Hard of Hearing. He learned ASL in childhood, shaping both his personal journey and professional path. Jason is an ASL teacher who is deeply passionate about Deaf culture, accessibility, and education. He strives to help students appreciate ASL and Deaf culture through real-world experiences and meaningful connections.

Liza Weaver is from Wenatchee, Washington, and proudly serves as a hearing ally to the Deaf community. She teaches ASL at Wenatchee High School and Wenatchee Valley College and works as a freelance interpreter. Liza works alongside Jason Brown to connect ASL students and educational programs with opportunities through the Expo and beyond.

Jay Jakubowski was born deaf and raised in Dearborn, Michigan. He attended RIT, where he pursued wrestling and Computer Mechanical Technology. Jay competed as a wrestler alongside Matt Hamill and represented the Deaf community internationally in the Deaf Olympics, earning bronze medals. Favorite quote: “DEAF POWER!”

Justin Hoyt was born in Michigan and later moved to Ohio, where he was introduced to the Deaf community and ASL. He is fully Deaf and has been signing since 1993. Justin is passionate about connecting with people, supporting accessibility, and contributing to the growth and success of The Hammer Deaf Expo.

Goofy Gilbert supports The Hammer Deaf Expo as a Registration Coordinator, helping attendees, guests, and participants feel welcomed and organized throughout the event.

Heatherr Lindo is a proud Deaf individual from Los Angeles, California. She learned ASL at an early age and has a strong connection to Deaf culture. Heatherr is highly organized, detail-oriented, and supports The Hammer Deaf Expo through coordination, planning, and community connection.