Pillars of Purpose

Matthew Efird
  • 5.0 (29)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

Pillars of Purpose is a podcast dedicated to exploring the foundational elements that shape a fulfilling and impactful life. Hosted by Matthew Efird, this show dives deep into the core aspects of what it means to live with purpose—whether through nurturing a strong faith, cultivating a close-knit family, or driving innovation in business. Each episode is an insightful conversation with leaders, thinkers, and everyday people who embody these principles in their lives. We explore the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned in faith, family, and business. Follow along for inspiration and hope!

  1. #141 Lisa Woodruff - The Hidden Mental Load Women Carry

    4d ago

    #141 Lisa Woodruff - The Hidden Mental Load Women Carry

    What happens when a stay-at-home mom with no clear business plan starts a simple blog… and turns it into a thriving company that helps thousands of women find peace and clarity in their homes? In this powerful conversation, Organize 365 founder Lisa Woodruff shares her incredible journey from overwhelmed mom to entrepreneur, author, podcaster, and PhD graduate. Along the way, she opens up about the hidden mental load women carry, why so many women feel exhausted in their 30s and 40s, and how mindset shifts can completely transform the way we live, lead, and care for ourselves. Lisa explains why organization is about so much more than cleaning your house — it’s about reducing mental clutter, creating systems that support your family, and learning how to give yourself grace instead of chasing perfection. This episode is filled with practical wisdom for moms, entrepreneurs, business owners, and anyone feeling overwhelmed by the weight of daily life. Inside this conversation, we cover: -Lisa’s journey from stay-at-home mom to successful entrepreneur -How she built Organize 365 from a simple blog -The hidden “CEO work” women carry inside the home -Why self-care is more than massages and spa days -The emotional difference between perfection and excellence -ADHD, overwhelm, and learning to work with your strengths -Why businesses and families need systems to thrive -The importance of adapting and evolving in business -Her decision to pursue a PhD later in life -Insights from her new book Escaping Quicksand Lisa also shares one of the most freeing mindset shifts of the entire episode: learning to stop chasing perfection and instead become a person of excellence rooted in grace.z If you’ve been feeling mentally drained, stretched too thin, or like you’re constantly pouring into everyone else without taking care of yourself, this episode will encourage you, challenge you, and remind you that you’re not alone. 📚 Lisa’s new book: Escaping Quicksand 🌐 Website: Organize 365 📱 Instagram: @organize365 - You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.com. Check out Matthew's Book "Even Though, We Will" : https://a.co/d/0aRocHpq Check out Morgan’s AI course to start using AI confidently in your business: https://knoxoutai.com Are you a seasonal business owner who's struggling to make ends meet during the winter months? Do you hate losing great staff when the weather turns cold because you don't have enough work to keep them employed year-round? You could be a perfect fit for a Lighting Pros Franchise location! Learn more about Lighting Pros Franchise here: https://lightingprosfranchise.com Would you consider yourself a corporate refugee or portfolio investor looking to get into business ownership in the emerging market of outdoor lighting? Would you be interested in an award-winning system focused on permanent holiday lights, landscape lighting, and temporary Christmas lights? Did you know that you can do outdoor lighting all year long? You could be a perfect fit for a Lighting Pros Franchise location! Learn more about Lighting Pros Franchise here: https://lightingprosfranchise.com Interested in having Matthew speak at your upcoming Event? Go here: https://matthewefird.com Looking for the best AI Notetaker? Check out my link to FathomAI and get a month of premium for free! https://fathom.video/invite/UT2ZaQ

    33 min
  2. #140 Beth Marshall - How to Heal From Grief Without Losing Hope

    May 26

    #140 Beth Marshall - How to Heal From Grief Without Losing Hope

    Beth Marshall never planned to become a voice for grief healing. But after the sudden loss of her mother, she found herself overwhelmed, isolated, and searching for hope. In this deeply honest conversation, Beth shares how grief changed her life, how journaling and Scripture became part of her healing journey, and why community matters so much when walking through loss. Together, Matthew and Beth talk about navigating sorrow, finding joy again, setting healthy boundaries, and learning how God meets us in our hardest moments. If you’ve lost someone you love, feel emotionally exhausted, or are trying to support someone through grief, this episode offers practical encouragement and real hope. Topics include: -Healing after losing a loved one -Christian perspective on grief -Finding hope after tragedy -Journaling and emotional healing -Why grief isolates us -How community helps us heal -Learning to feel joy again -Biblical encouragement for grief Beth also shares the incredible story behind her book Uncrushed and how God used her pain to help thousands of others. 📘 Connect with Beth Marshall: BethGMarshall.com 📖 Resources Mentioned: -Uncrushed: Real Steps for Healing Your Grief and Restoring Your Joy -Psalm 34:18 If this conversation encouraged you, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone who may need hope today. - You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.com. Check out Matthew's Book "Even Though, We Will" : https://a.co/d/0aRocHpq Check out Morgan’s AI course to start using AI confidently in your business: https://knoxoutai.com Are you a seasonal business owner who's struggling to make ends meet during the winter months? Do you hate losing great staff when the weather turns cold because you don't have enough work to keep them employed year-round? You could be a perfect fit for a Lighting Pros Franchise location! Learn more about Lighting Pros Franchise here: https://lightingprosfranchise.com Would you consider yourself a corporate refugee or portfolio investor looking to get into business ownership in the emerging market of outdoor lighting? Would you be interested in an award-winning system focused on permanent holiday lights, landscape lighting, and temporary Christmas lights? Did you know that you can do outdoor lighting all year long? You could be a perfect fit for a Lighting Pros Franchise location! Learn more about Lighting Pros Franchise here: https://lightingprosfranchise.com Interested in having Matthew speak at your upcoming Event? Go here: https://matthewefird.com Looking for the best AI Notetaker? Check out my link to FathomAI and get a month of premium for free! https://fathom.video/invite/UT2ZaQ

    41 min
  3. #139 Ala Sahu - Why Small Business Owners Who Ignore AI Will Get Passed Up

    May 19

    #139 Ala Sahu - Why Small Business Owners Who Ignore AI Will Get Passed Up

    Business owners are hearing about AI everywhere… but what does it actually mean for everyday entrepreneurs? In this episode of Market Mavericks, Matthew sits down with Ala Sahu to break down AI in a practical, understandable way for small business owners, solopreneurs, and entrepreneurs. Ala explains the “4 Levels of AI,” the difference between tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Perplexity, and why AI should be viewed as a tool for efficiency — not a magic solution. They also dive into: -How AI can help small businesses grow faster -Why entrepreneurs who ignore AI risk getting passed up -The dangers of blindly trusting AI -How to start using AI in your everyday life -Real examples for plumbers, marketers, and business owners -The future of AI agents and AGI Whether you’re brand new to AI or already experimenting with it, this episode will help you understand how to use it wisely, practically, and strategically. Connect with Ala Sahu: www.A1MKTG.com If this episode encouraged you, share it with another entrepreneur or business owner who needs to hear it. -- You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.com. Check out Matthew's Book "Even Though, We Will" : https://a.co/d/0aRocHpq Check out Morgan’s AI course to start using AI confidently in your business: https://knoxoutai.com Are you a seasonal business owner who's struggling to make ends meet during the winter months? Do you hate losing great staff when the weather turns cold because you don't have enough work to keep them employed year-round? You could be a perfect fit for a Lighting Pros Franchise location! Learn more about Lighting Pros Franchise here: https://lightingprosfranchise.com Would you consider yourself a corporate refugee or portfolio investor looking to get into business ownership in the emerging market of outdoor lighting? Would you be interested in an award-winning system focused on permanent holiday lights, landscape lighting, and temporary Christmas lights? Did you know that you can do outdoor lighting all year long? You could be a perfect fit for a Lighting Pros Franchise location! Learn more about Lighting Pros Franchise here: https://lightingprosfranchise.com Interested in having Matthew speak at your upcoming Event? Go here: https://matthewefird.com Looking for the best AI Notetaker? Check out my link to FathomAI and get a month of premium for free! https://fathom.video/invite/UT2ZaQ

    37 min
  4. #138 Jay Conner | How to Fund Real Estate Deals Without Banks (Private Money Strategy Explained)

    May 12

    #138 Jay Conner | How to Fund Real Estate Deals Without Banks (Private Money Strategy Explained)

    If you’ve ever thought, “I’d invest in real estate… but I don’t have the money,” this episode will shift your perspective. In this conversation, Jay Conner breaks down how he went from relying on banks… to raising over $2 million in private money in just 90 days — without pitching, chasing, or begging for funds. We talk about: -What “private money” actually is (and how it’s different from hard money) -How to fund deals without using your own cash -The mindset shift from asking → teaching -How to protect investors and reduce risk -Why most people fail in real estate (and how to avoid it) -Simple, practical steps to get your first deal funded This episode isn’t just about real estate — it’s about stewardship, wisdom, and building something sustainable with what God has already placed in your hands. If you’re a beginner, side hustler, or entrepreneur looking for a smarter way to grow… this one’s for you. 🎁 Jay also shares free resources, scripts, and training opportunities at the end — don’t miss it. - You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.com. Check out Matthew's Book "Even Though, We Will" : https://a.co/d/0aRocHpq Check out Morgan’s AI course to start using AI confidently in your business: https://knoxoutai.com Are you a seasonal business owner who's struggling to make ends meet during the winter months? Do you hate losing great staff when the weather turns cold because you don't have enough work to keep them employed year-round? You could be a perfect fit for a Lighting Pros Franchise location! Learn more about Lighting Pros Franchise here: https://lightingprosfranchise.com Would you consider yourself a corporate refugee or portfolio investor looking to get into business ownership in the emerging market of outdoor lighting? Would you be interested in an award-winning system focused on permanent holiday lights, landscape lighting, and temporary Christmas lights? Did you know that you can do outdoor lighting all year long? You could be a perfect fit for a Lighting Pros Franchise location! Learn more about Lighting Pros Franchise here: https://lightingprosfranchise.com Interested in having Matthew speak at your upcoming Event? Go here: https://matthewefird.com Looking for the best AI Notetaker? Check out my link to FathomAI and get a month of premium for free! https://fathom.video/invite/UT2ZaQ

    38 min
  5. #137 Stop Just Protecting Your Kids — Start Equipping Them | David Poindexter

    May 5

    #137 Stop Just Protecting Your Kids — Start Equipping Them | David Poindexter

    Most dads want to protect their kids. But what if that’s not enough? In this episode, David Poindexter shares a powerful shift in mindset that could change how you lead your family forever: stop just protecting your kids… and start equipping them. After 40 years of marriage, raising four daughters, and working with families for decades, David breaks down what actually builds strong, confident, faith-rooted children. This conversation dives into: -Why protecting your kids isn’t the ultimate goal -How to build a family culture (not just follow a checklist) -Practical ways to equip your kids for real life -Breaking generational cycles and becoming the dad you never had -The role of faith, humility, and intentional leadership in parenting You’ll also hear simple but powerful examples—from teaching responsibility to creating lifelong connection around the table—that any parent can apply today. If you’re a dad (or want to be one) who feels the weight of leading your family well… this episode will challenge and encourage you. 🎧 Whether you're raising toddlers or preparing for the empty nest—this is a conversation that will stick with you. -- You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.com. Check out Matthew's Book "Even Though, We Will" : https://a.co/d/0aRocHpq Check out Morgan’s AI course to start using AI confidently in your business: https://knoxoutai.com Are you a seasonal business owner who's struggling to make ends meet during the winter months? Do you hate losing great staff when the weather turns cold because you don't have enough work to keep them employed year-round? You could be a perfect fit for a Lighting Pros Franchise location! Learn more about Lighting Pros Franchise here: https://lightingprosfranchise.com Would you consider yourself a corporate refugee or portfolio investor looking to get into business ownership in the emerging market of outdoor lighting? Would you be interested in an award-winning system focused on permanent holiday lights, landscape lighting, and temporary Christmas lights? Did you know that you can do outdoor lighting all year long? You could be a perfect fit for a Lighting Pros Franchise location! Learn more about Lighting Pros Franchise here: https://lightingprosfranchise.com Interested in having Matthew speak at your upcoming Event? Go here: https://matthewefird.com Looking for the best AI Notetaker? Check out my link to FathomAI and get a month of premium for free! https://fathom.video/invite/UT2ZaQ

    34 min
  6. #136 Aaron Chapman - From Rock Bottom to Redemption: A $5.5M Loss, Faith, and Starting Over

    Apr 28

    #136 Aaron Chapman - From Rock Bottom to Redemption: A $5.5M Loss, Faith, and Starting Over

    What do you do when everything falls apart? In this powerful episode, Aaron Chapman shares a story that will challenge how you see failure, faith, and forgiveness. From working in mines and oil fields… to building a successful mortgage career… to losing over $5.5 million, his health, and even his memory after a devastating motorcycle accident. Aaron’s journey is one of the most raw and honest stories of resilience you’ll hear. But what makes this story different? 👉 He chose not to sue the person who caused the accident. 👉 He rebuilt his life from negative net worth. 👉 He found purpose through faith, relationships, and relentless action. This episode is for anyone: -Going through a difficult season -Trying to rebuild after loss -Searching for purpose in pain -Wanting to grow in faith and leadership You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of: -Why adversity can shape your greatest growth -What true forgiveness really looks like -How faith works when life doesn’t make sense -Why there are no shortcuts to success 📘 Aaron’s book: Redneckonomics — a raw, unfiltered look at life, business, and personal growth. Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/0iYLYFpG If this episode speaks to you, share it with someone who needs encouragement today. -- You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.com. Check out Matthew's Book "Even Though, We Will" : https://a.co/d/0aRocHpq Check out Morgan’s AI course to start using AI confidently in your business: https://knoxoutai.com Are you a seasonal business owner who's struggling to make ends meet during the winter months? Do you hate losing great staff when the weather turns cold because you don't have enough work to keep them employed year-round? You could be a perfect fit for a Lighting Pros Franchise location! Learn more about Lighting Pros Franchise here: https://lightingprosfranchise.com Would you consider yourself a corporate refugee or portfolio investor looking to get into business ownership in the emerging market of outdoor lighting? Would you be interested in an award-winning system focused on permanent holiday lights, landscape lighting, and temporary Christmas lights? Did you know that you can do outdoor lighting all year long? You could be a perfect fit for a Lighting Pros Franchise location! Learn more about Lighting Pros Franchise here: https://lightingprosfranchise.com Interested in having Matthew speak at your upcoming Event? Go here: https://matthewefird.com Looking for the best AI Notetaker? Check out my link to FathomAI and get a month of premium for free! https://fathom.video/invite/UT2ZaQ

    39 min
  7. #135 David Schnurman - The Family Vision That Led Us to Move Abroad (And Changed Everything)

    Apr 21

    #135 David Schnurman - The Family Vision That Led Us to Move Abroad (And Changed Everything)

    What if one simple family decision could change everything? In this episode of the Pillars of Purpose Podcast, Matthew sits down with David Schnurman, author of 11 Suitcases, to unpack the bold decision that took his family from routine life in New York to living abroad in Barcelona. But this isn’t just a travel story. It’s about vision, faith, and choosing to step out of comfort—even when it’s messy. From creating a family vision in 2015… To saying yes to opportunities (and learning when not to)… To navigating chaos, COVID lockdowns, and culture shock… David shares how this journey reshaped his identity as a father, husband, and leader. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: -How to create a powerful family vision that actually leads to action -Why “saying yes” can unlock growth—but also requires balance -What really happens when you move abroad (the real, not Instagram version) -How shared experiences build deeper family connection -Why stepping outside your comfort zone builds confidence in your kids This conversation is a reminder: You don’t need to move across the world… But you do need to live with intention. 🎧 Listen now and ask yourself: What vision is guiding your family? -- You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.com. Check out Morgan’s AI course to start using AI confidently in your business: https://knoxoutai.com Are you a seasonal business owner who's struggling to make ends meet during the winter months? Do you hate losing great staff when the weather turns cold because you don't have enough work to keep them employed year-round? You could be a perfect fit for a Lighting Pros Franchise location! Learn more about Lighting Pros Franchise here: https://lightingprosfranchise.com Would you consider yourself a corporate refugee or portfolio investor looking to get into business ownership in the emerging market of outdoor lighting? Would you be interested in an award-winning system focused on permanent holiday lights, landscape lighting, and temporary Christmas lights? Did you know that you can do outdoor lighting all year long? You could be a perfect fit for a Lighting Pros Franchise location! Learn more about Lighting Pros Franchise here: https://lightingprosfranchise.com Interested in having Matthew speak at your upcoming Event? Go here: https://matthewefird.com Looking for the best AI Notetaker? Check out my link to FathomAI and get a month of premium for free! https://fathom.video/invite/UT2ZaQ

    43 min
  8. #134 Matthew Efird - Even Though, We Will: A Father’s Faith Through Child Loss

    Apr 14

    #134 Matthew Efird - Even Though, We Will: A Father’s Faith Through Child Loss

    This is one of the most personal and meaningful episodes we’ve ever shared. In this special episode of the Pillars of Purpose podcast, Matthew opens up about the life of his son Noah—who lived for 57 hours—and the journey of faith, grief, and purpose that followed.
 During pregnancy, Matthew and his wife received the heartbreaking diagnosis that Noah had trisomy 13. What followed were months of anticipatory grief—loving their son deeply while preparing to say goodbye. 
 Noah was born on March 7th… and passed away just two days later.
 But this episode isn’t just about loss.
 It’s about what happens in the middle of the storm—
 when prayers feel unanswered,
 when your strength runs out,
 and when your faith is tested in ways you never expected.
 Matthew shares how his relationship with God became his anchor, how grief impacted his marriage, leadership, and identity as a father—and how their family found a way not just to survive, but to walk forward with purpose.
 This episode also introduces his new book:
“Even Though, We Will: Finding Rest in the Waves of Child Loss and the Practical Arks that Carry Us Through.”
 Inside the book, Matthew breaks down: * The emotional waves of grief * The spiritual foundation that carried them * Practical ways to support others in suffering * A rare and honest perspective from a father navigating loss
 This conversation is for:
 • Parents walking through grief
 • Friends and family who want to show up better
 • Leaders trying to carry responsibility while hurting
 • Anyone asking, “Where is God in this?”
 If you’ve ever faced loss, confusion, or deep pain…
you’re not alone.
 And even in the waves—there is still hope. 👉 Learn more / get the book: EvenThoughWeWill.com
 👉 Support Noah’s Foundation or nominate a family in need
 If this episode speaks to you, consider sharing it with someone who may need it today. - You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.com. Check out Morgan’s AI course to start using AI confidently in your business: https://knoxoutai.com Are you a seasonal business owner who's struggling to make ends meet during the winter months? Do you hate losing great staff when the weather turns cold because you don't have enough work to keep them employed year-round? You could be a perfect fit for a Lighting Pros Franchise location! Learn more about Lighting Pros Franchise here: https://lightingprosfranchise.com Would you consider yourself a corporate refugee or portfolio investor looking to get into business ownership in the emerging market of outdoor lighting? Would you be interested in an award-winning system focused on permanent holiday lights, landscape lighting, and temporary Christmas lights? Did you know that you can do outdoor lighting all year long? You could be a perfect fit for a Lighting Pros Franchise location! Learn more about Lighting Pros Franchise here: https://lightingprosfranchise.com Interested in having Matthew speak at your upcoming Event? Go here: https://matthewefird.com Looking for the best AI Notetaker? Check out my link to FathomAI and get a month of premium for free! https://fathom.video/invite/UT2ZaQ

    37 min
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5
out of 5
29 Ratings

About

Pillars of Purpose is a podcast dedicated to exploring the foundational elements that shape a fulfilling and impactful life. Hosted by Matthew Efird, this show dives deep into the core aspects of what it means to live with purpose—whether through nurturing a strong faith, cultivating a close-knit family, or driving innovation in business. Each episode is an insightful conversation with leaders, thinkers, and everyday people who embody these principles in their lives. We explore the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned in faith, family, and business. Follow along for inspiration and hope!

Information

  • Creator
    Matthew Efird
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    140
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Matthew Efird
  • Show Website
    Pillars of Purpose

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