Preston Zeller discusses faith, career, and entrepreneurship, as well as his new app, Psalmlog.
Key Takeaways
- Preston's faith journey led him from prodigal son to committed Christian, shaping his approach to work and life
- He views workplaces as ministry opportunities, using discernment to share faith appropriately
- Preston developed Psalm Log, an AI-powered app for spiritual growth tracking and journaling
- He advocates for Christians to engage with new technologies like AI as tools for kingdom impact
Topics
Preston's Faith Journey
- Grew up around church but lacked intellectual understanding
- Had "prodigal son" phase in college with partying
- Pivotal moment at 22 when God said He'd let Preston keep running if he chose
- Attended Calvary Chapel conference at 23, fully committed life to Christ
- Compelled to share faith with friends after conversion
Faith in the Workplace
- Early job exposed Preston to New Age spirituality, strengthening his Christian convictions
- Prayed for coworker who decided against abortion, naming child Faith
- Views each job as placed there by God for a purpose
- Navigated sharing faith in tech company during politically charged times (e.g. 2016 election)
- Shifted focus to mentoring younger colleagues on faith and life in recent years
Entrepreneurship and Psalm Log
- Developed Psalm Log app for tracking spiritual growth through voice journaling
- Uses AI to provide insights on journal entries and scripture readings
- Aims to help users build habits around spiritual reflection
- Available on Apple and Android app stores
Perspective on AI and Technology
- Views AI as a tool, analogous to firearms - not inherently good or evil
- Cautions against manipulated videos showing AI as demonic
- Encourages Christians to engage with new tech to have kingdom impact
- Sees opportunity for Christian tech leaders to fund ministry/missions
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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
Pam Rivet discusses how Jesus radically transformed her life and the origin of MBS.
Key Takeaways
- Pam Rivet co-founded MBS (The Woman Beyond the Cape), a faith-based women's athleisure brand, after experiencing a spiritual awakening and divine visions
- She overcame struggles with alcohol addiction and found peace through surrendering her life to Christ
- Pam's business and speaking career aim to help prevent burnout/anxiety by encouraging women to find their worth in God rather than worldly accomplishments
Topics
Pam's Background and Business Origin
- Co-owner/founder of MBS (The Woman Beyond the Cape) and keynote speaker
- MBS is a faith-based women's athleisure brand with scripture-tied affirmations
- Business idea came from divine visions after praying about feeling a need for "something more"
- Partnered with former acquaintance Mandy, who had similar spiritual experiences
Pam's Spiritual Journey
- Raised with a religious background but lacked a personal relationship with God
- Experienced a rock bottom moment driving intoxicated with children
- Began personal development, slowly reduced drinking
- Had a transformative spiritual experience at a women's worship conference
- Fully surrendered life to Christ, leading to radical lifestyle changes
Impact on Family Life
- Initial challenges with husband due to drastic lifestyle changes
- Gradual positive changes in family dynamics (e.g., reading the Bible together, attending church)
- Learned to trust God's timing for family members' spiritual growth rather than trying to control
Business Mission and Personal Growth
- MBS aims to prevent burnout/anxiety by reminding women of their God-given worth
- Affirmations on clothing tied to scripture to encourage daily spiritual focus
- Pam's personal growth allows her to face current challenges with peace and trust in God
Advice and Reflection
- Key advice: Trust God, even when you don't understand the circumstances
- Emphasizes the importance of surrendering control and allowing God to work in loved ones' lives
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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
Author Debora Coty shares about her life, faith journey, and new devotional book "Bless Your Heart"
Key Takeaways
- Debora Coty is an author of 45+ books, including the "Too Blessed to Be Stressed" series which sold over 2 million copies
- She emphasizes the importance of being vulnerable and transparent about life's struggles in her writing
- Her new 365-day devotional "Bless Your Heart" reflects a more mature faith perspective after recent losses and challenges
- Coty encourages constantly seeking God's face and maintaining an attitude of openness to hearing the Holy Spirit
Topics
Debora's Background and Family
- Married nearly 50 years, has 2 grown children and 5 grandchildren
- Experienced 6 miscarriages and subsequent depression in her 20s-30s
- Emphasizes the importance of including grandparents in grandchildren's lives, especially spiritually
- Uses creative methods like scripture songs to Biblical truths to grandkids
Writing Career
- Started writing at age 45 after praying for direction
- First book inspired by stories from a hand therapy patient
- "Too Blessed to Be Stressed" series became unexpectedly successful
- Latest book "Bless Your Heart" reflects a more mature faith after recent losses
Faith Journey
- Went through periods of depression and feeling distant from God after miscarriages
- Practiced "reluctant obedience" by continuing spiritual habits even when struggling
- Emphasizes God's faithfulness through different seasons of life
- Encourages seeking God's face consistently, being open to hearing the Holy Spirit
Perspective on Suffering
- Views challenges as opportunities to grow closer to God
- Shares the story of her granddaughter getting adopted, fulfilled earlier dreams/visions
- Emphasizes God's timing and plans may look different than expected
- Encourages maintaining faith and seeking God even in difficult waiting periods
Next Steps
- Listeners can find "Bless Your Heart" devotional on Amazon, ChristianBooks.com, Barnes & Noble
- Visit deboracoty.com to join her "Blessed Friends Forever" community
- Debora's column is available in The Christian Voice magazine (print and online)
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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
Drew Larison of Five Door Media discusses marketing strategies for small businesses, particularly in the cleaning industry.
Key Takeaways
- Five Door Media specializes in marketing for cleaning companies, focusing on a niche for better results
- The "Five Door Method" helps diagnose and optimize paid ad campaigns through platform, creative, targeting, post-ad engagement, and sales
- Video content is crucial in 2025, with 82% of internet content being video-based
- Speed-to-lead is critical: 78% of sales go to businesses that respond within 5 minutes
Topics
Niching Down in Business
- Drew's agency narrowed focus from general to home services, then specifically to cleaning companies
- Specialization led to becoming one of the fastest-growing cleaning marketing agencies in 6-8 months
- Niching down improved staff expertise, client satisfaction, and overall business performance
The Five Door Method for Marketing
1. Platform: Choosing the right advertising platform (e.g., Google, Facebook)
2. Creative: Developing engaging, authentic content that stops users from scrolling
3. Targeting: Reaching the right audience with proper demographics and location
4. Post-ad Engagement: Optimizing landing pages and forms for easy conversion
5. Sales: Ensuring a robust sales process to close leads effectively
Video Marketing Importance
- 82% of all internet content consumed is video
- Less polished, authentic videos often perform better than highly produced content
- Recommend adding videos to landing pages for better engagement and conversion
Sales Process Optimization
- Speed-to-lead is crucial: aim to respond to leads within 5 minutes
- 78% of sales go to businesses that respond first to inquiries
- Consider using VAs or AI automation for after-hours lead management
Next Steps
- Evaluate current marketing strategies using the Five Door Method
- Implement video content in marketing efforts, especially on landing pages
- Assess and improve sales processes before investing heavily in marketing
- Consider using virtual assistants or AI automation for faster lead response
- Connect with Drew Larison via five-doormedia.com or social media for further assistance
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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
Dr. Janelle Martin discusses her experience with her daughter's addiction and recovery, and her book "Losing Her, Finding Us".
Key Takeaways
- Dr. Martin's daughter struggled with drug addiction as a teenager, leading to a crisis point and intensive treatment
- The recovery process transformed both their lives, rebuilding their relationship and inspiring Dr. Martin's career change
- Dr. Martin emphasizes the importance of parent education, support groups, and professional help in navigating addiction
- Their book offers a unique dual perspective on addiction's impact on families and the journey to recovery
Topics
Discovering the Addiction
- Dr. Martin was initially unaware of her daughter's drug use
- Informed by daughter's acquaintance via Facebook message with photo evidence
- Initial anger and heartbreak, followed by attempts to address the issue without specialized help
Crisis and Treatment
- Daughter sent to live with father in Arizona, leading to rapid escalation of issues
- Crisis point reached within 3 months, involving physical altercation and police
- Found specialized teen treatment program in Arizona
- Daughter underwent 6 weeks inpatient, 8 weeks intensive outpatient, 6 months aftercare
Recovery Process and Impact
- Dr. Martin attended weekly parent meetings, joined 12-step program
- Recovery process rebuilt relationship with daughter through vulnerability and shared experiences
- Daughter now 6.5 years sober, working with Dr. Martin in mental health practice
- Experience led to Dr. Martin's career change and advanced education in mental health field
Book: "Losing Her, Finding Us"
- Offers dual perspective from both mother and daughter
- Fills gap in addiction literature by providing both parent and child viewpoints
- Available on Amazon, Goodreads, Barnes & Noble online
Advice for Parents
- Educate yourself on available resources and counseling options
- Consider preemptively finding a counselor for your child
- Participate in support groups like Al-Anon or Celebrate Recovery
- Understand that addiction often stems from underlying pain, not parental fault
Next Steps
- Readers encouraged to purchase and review the book on Amazon
- Those seeking support can contact Dr. Martin via social media or her websites
- Dr. Martin open to connecting with parents needing advice or counseling
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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
Dr. Tim Elmore is founder of Growing Leaders (GrowingLeaders.com), an Atlanta‐based non‐profit organization created to develop emerging leaders. Since founding Growing Leaders in 2003, Elmore has spoken to over 500,000 leaders in businesses, universities, athletic teams and non-profit organizations, including The Home Depot, Coca-Cola Bottling Company Consolidated, American Eagle and Chick-fil-A as well as well the San Francisco Giants, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Buffalo Bills, the Ohio State University, Stanford University and University of Alabama athletics.
His work grew out of twenty years of serving alongside Dr. John C. Maxwell, where he focused on leadership for the emerging generations. Elmore has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, USA Today, Psychology Today, and he’s been featured on CNN’s Headline News, Fox Business, Newsmax TV and Fox and Friends to talk about leading multiple generations in the marketplace. Tim was listed in the top 100 leadership speakers in America by Inc. Magazine and gave a TEDx Talk in 2020 about the inverse relationship between technology and emotional intelligence. He has written more than 35 books, including the best-selling Habitudes: Images That Form Leadership Habits and Attitudes. His book, A New Kind of Diversity: Making the Different Generations on Your Team a Competitive Advantage, was released in the fall of 2022. His latest book, The Future Begins with Z: Nine Strategies to Lead Generation Z As They Upset the Workplace, releases fall of 2025. Tim and his wife, Pam, have two adult children. He and Pam live outside of Atlanta. You can find his work at: TimElmore.com
Key Takeaways
- Gen Z requires a different leadership approach: more listening, coaching, and reverse mentoring
- EPIC communication (Experiential, Participatory, Image-rich, Connected) resonates better with Gen Z
- Developing soft skills/EQ is crucial for Gen Z's success and differentiation in the AI-driven workplace
- Leaders should be "velvet-covered bricks": supportive yet maintaining high standards
Topics
Gen Z Leadership Challenges
- 3 in 4 managers say Gen Z is the toughest generation to manage
- 30% of managers report firing Gen Z employees within the first week
- Gen Z often misperceived as unmotivated, but may have complex personal situations
- Gen Z struggles with soft skills due to extensive screen time during formative years
PERKS Interview/Onboarding Strategy
- Preferences: Discuss job preferences to potentially accommodate
- Expectations: Align expectations to avoid future conflicts
- Requirements: Clarify non-negotiables for both employer and employee
- Keys to their heart: Understand personal motivations and interests
- Salary: Discuss compensation clearly
EPIC Communication Style
- Experiential: Create environments that spark discussion
- Participatory: Involve Gen Z in decision-making for buy-in
- Image-rich: Use visuals to engage and convey complex ideas
- Connected: Foster connections between team members and leaders
Developing Soft Skills in Gen Z
- Frame EQ development as a competitive advantage against AI
- Teach nuanced social awareness (e.g., reading cultural cues)
- Recommend resources like "The Eight Paradoxes of Great Leadership"
"Velvet Brick" Leadership
- Velvet: Understanding, accepting, supportive
- Brick: Maintaining high standards, not lowering the bar
- Balance responsiveness with demanding excellence
Optimistic Outlook on Gen Z
- View Gen Z challenges as "sandpaper" improving leadership skills
- Historical example: NASA's moon landing led by young professionals (avg. age 27)
- Opportunity for seasoned leaders to mentor while trusting Gen Z with responsibility
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.com.
Dr. Dave Jones discusses faith, sports psychology, and entrepreneurship.
Key Takeaways
- Parents should focus on making sports fun for kids under 15, avoiding pressure and prioritizing enjoyment
- Dr. Dave emphasizes the importance of leading by example in faith and business
- Psychology plays a crucial role in marketing, sports performance, and personal growth
- Dr. Dave's latest book "On Thin Ice" explores faith journey through a hockey-themed narrative
Topics
Dr. Dave's Background and Business
- Founder of M is Good, a Christian advertising agency (24 years old, one of the largest)
- Transitioned from pro hockey career to marketing and psychology
- Holds a doctorate in sport and performance psychology (13-year journey)
- Works with 10-15 hockey players from NHL down during seasons
Parenting Advice for Youth Sports
- Key advice: "Just have fun with them" for kids 15 and under
- Avoid instructing/yelling; preserve trust and don't let sport become a wedge
- Use language like "I love watching you play" instead of performance-based praise
- At 16+, parents become ambassadors, providing resources as needed
Faith in Business and Personal Growth
- Lead by example in faith journey; behavior speaks louder than words
- Create a culture/opportunity to bring people alongside in faith
- Recognize "FLAP": Fear, Lust, Anger, Pride as common struggles
- Implement guardrails (e.g., never alone with opposite gender) to maintain integrity
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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
Part 2 of 2. Matthew and Hannah share the story of the son Noah, who passed away on March 9, 2020. Their conversation is raw and heartfelt around how their son transformed their lives. Their prayer is that this conversation is encouraging, challenging, and inspiring.
They also briefly discuss the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk and how they engage with their faith amongst evil.
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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
Part 1 of 2. Matthew interviews his wife, Hannah, about their family journey. They talk about dating, college life, early marriage, parenting, and why they chose homeschooling. This episode is full of faith, family values, and real-life lessons for parents and couples.
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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
Austin McMillan, owner of Flywheel Financial, discusses entrepreneurship, business acquisition, and financial management for small businesses.
Key Takeaways
- Flywheel Financial provides outsourced accounting services for small businesses, helping owners focus on growth
- Austin emphasizes the importance of understanding financial metrics and creating a "winnable game" for business owners
- Regular team check-ins and personal goal-setting are crucial for employee retention and business growth
- Mentorship and networking with successful entrepreneurs are vital for business owners' development
Topics
Austin's Background and Business Acquisition
- Started in finance at a landscape company, then traded options full-time
- Joined Flywheel Financial, then purchased the business in May 2023
- Advises carrying debt for no more than 3 years when buying a service-based business
- Stresses the importance of betting on yourself while managing risk in business acquisition
Flywheel Financial's Services and Approach
- Provides outsourced accounting department services for small businesses
- Focuses on simplifying complex financial data into actionable insights
- Uses metrics like labor efficiency ratio to guide service-based businesses
- Helps clients grow from $900k to $5.1M in revenue over 3 years while increasing profit margins
Team Management and Employee Development
- Conducts quarterly one-on-one meetings with team members
- Uses personality assessments (Enneagram, Working Genius) to optimize roles
- Sets personal and professional goals for each team member
- Emphasizes the importance of putting people in roles that align with their strengths
Mentorship and Networking for Business Owners
- Recommends joining coaching programs with successful entrepreneurs
- Emphasizes the value of "borrowing confidence" from mentors
- Suggests connecting with local business owners doing bigger things
- Stresses the importance of continuous learning and growth
Book Recommendations
1. "Buy Back Your Time" by Dan Martell - focuses on delegating and optimizing time use
2. "Who Not How" - emphasizes finding the right people for tasks rather than doing everything yourself
Next Steps
- Follow Austin on Instagram (@austindmcmillan) for financial tips for small business owners
- Direct message Austin with the word "profit" on Instagram to receive a free guide on setting up bank accounts to prioritize profit
- Consider reading "Buy Back Your Time" and "Who Not How" for business optimization strategies
- Evaluate current financial practices and consider implementing a more structured approach to financial management in your business
Free Resource :
Wealthy Kids Gift PDF
Link: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1A1hz0SF9fFrQnzDVQh7ev3YouIq8UYui/view
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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
Matthew Efird introduces the Belief Builders podcast, which aims to explore individuals' spiritual journeys and the influence of faith on their lives. He shared his own faith journey, highlighting key moments that shaped his beliefs and strengthened his faith. Throughout the discussion, Matthew emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and inspiration from various sources to deepen one's faith, integrating faith into daily routines, and discerning God's calling.
Matthew also discusses the significance of sharing and passing on faith, stressing the need to live out one's faith consistently and engage in meaningful conversations to introduce others to the faith. He emphasizes the importance of actively passing on faith to the next generation, detailing his family's efforts to prioritize church involvement, engage in faith discussions, and integrate faith into daily life. Additionally, he discusses the role of community and music in supporting his faith during moments of uncertainty and shared his aspiration to leave a legacy of passing on his beliefs to the next generation.
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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
Robert Heath, Sr., CEO of Legacy Leadership Consulting Group discusses his book Thriving in Chaos.
He talks about how to navigate life's demands while aligning everything you do with your true purpose. He discusses the principles around living with purpose—especially for leaders and individuals looking to manage their responsibilities with clarity and intention.
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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
Laure Hoffman discusses her journey with Iron Forums and integrating faith in the workplace
Key Takeaways
- Laure launched Iron Forums for women in 2023, filling a critical need for female business owners to connect and grow spiritually/professionally
- Iron Forums provides a unique space for business owners to receive faith-based counsel and accountability from peers without conflicts of interest
- Integrating faith in the workplace requires prayer, wisdom, and understanding legal protections, but can powerfully impact company culture and success
Topics
Laure's Background and Iron Forums Launch
- Moved to Atlanta 9 years ago for faith-based fundraising role
- Started "Work is Worship" business in 2016 after leaving that role
- Connected with Iron Forums by referring male business owners
- Launched Iron Forums for women in March 2023 after sensing God's direction
- Saw immediate strong interest and impact among female business owners
Value of Iron Forums Community
- Provides peer counsel without conflicts of interest (not investors/competitors)
- Focuses on spiritual life, family, and business in that priority order
- Offers wisdom from experienced advisors in latter career stages
- Allows sharing of challenges unique to business ownership
- Facilitates connections that lead to practical help (e.g. HR advice, pregnancy resources)
Integrating Faith in the Workplace
- Pray for wisdom and opportunities to share faith naturally
- Understand legal protections for religious expression at work
- Consider a "workplace missions trip" mindset to be more intentional
- Look for ways to pray for coworkers and clients
- Allow faith to shape business decisions and company culture
Laure's Faith Journey
- Became a Christian in high school on youth trip
- Prayed for family's salvation; father came to faith at age 60
- Helped turn around father's struggling business using biblical principles
- Continues seeking to help people integrate faith and work
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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
Tyler Martin, fractional CFO and business advisor, discusses his career journey and insights for small business owners.
Key Takeaways
- Tyler provides fractional CFO services for businesses in the $1-10M revenue range, helping with financial strategy and growth
- Key advice: Focus on systems, delegation, cash flow management, and leadership skills early on in business
- Tyler hosts two podcasts: "Profit and Grid" for home service businesses and "Think Business with Tyler" interviewing 7-8 figure business owners
Topics
Tyler's Business Background
- Started as a CPA, left to start his own practice with zero clients
- Grew practice to 200 business clients in 5 years
- Joined and eventually led an engineering services company, growing it to $25M revenue before selling
- Now runs CFO Made Easy, providing fractional CFO services
Value of Fractional CFO Services
- Helps businesses in $1-10M revenue range with financial strategy
- Bridges gap between CPA (taxes) and bookkeeper (historical records)
- Focuses on forward-looking financial planning and business strategy
- Can be more cost-effective than full-time CFO for smaller businesses
Leadership Lessons
- Learned to adjust management style to individual employees
- Stopped labeling employees (e.g. "millennials") and gave everyone a clean slate
- Focused on understanding what motivates each person
- Realized treating everyone exactly the same wasn't effective
Advice for Business Owners
- Delegate effectively but still understand core business functions
- Implement systems and processes early on
- Focus on cash flow management and forecasting
- Continuously improve leadership skills
- Be proactive in financial reviews and understanding clients personally
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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
Rebekah Black, founder of Jambos, discusses her faith journey and nonprofit work providing pajamas to children in foster care.
Key Takeaways
- Jambos started in 2018, providing new pajamas to kids in foster care as a way to share God's love
- Grew rapidly from serving 843 kids in year 1 to over 100,000 across 50 states and 18 countries
- Went viral on TikTok in 2022, serving 16,000 kids in 7 weeks but creating logistical challenges
- Now refocusing efforts on Georgia to build stronger systems before expanding again
Topics
Rebekah's Faith Journey
- Grew up in small-town Kentucky, accepted Christ in 5th grade
- High school mission trip to Jamaica sparked desire for ministry
- Reconnected with calling in late 20s/early 30s after period of distance from faith
- Felt clear direction from God to serve foster care community
Origins of Jambos
- Name comes from mom's term for pajamas + Swahili word for "welcome"
- Initial goal was to serve 843 kids in Gwinnett County, GA
- Served 5,500 kids in first year through grassroots efforts
- Operated out of Rebekah's living room for first two years
Rapid Growth and Challenges
- Went viral on TikTok in Dec 2022 after influencer post
- Served 16,000 kids in 7 weeks, received requests from 400 agencies globally
- Created $70,000 unexpected expenses for shipping, supplies, etc.
- Highlighted need for better systems and infrastructure
Current Operations and Future Plans
- 7,000 sq ft warehouse, 3 staff members, 2,800 annual volunteers
- Refocusing efforts on Georgia (12,000 kids in foster care) to build stronger foundation
- Aiming to serve all 12,000 GA kids in 2023
- Looking to expand to Southeast U.S. in future with replicable model
Next Steps
- Pray about getting involved with foster care ministry
- Volunteer at Jambos warehouse (all ages welcome)
- Host pajama donation drives (especially for upcoming holiday season)
- Join monthly "Comfy Club" donation program ($10/month serves 1 child)
- Consider sponsoring or playing in Aug 26 golf tournament fundraiser
- Follow Jambos on social media (@JambosDonates) for updates
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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
Randy Hain discusses his new book "Practical Virtue" and his experiences as an executive coach and author.
Key Takeaways
- Randy Hain's new book "Practical Virtue" is aimed at Gen Z and early career professionals, focusing on developing leadership virtues
- As an executive coach, Randy emphasizes helping individual leaders thrive rather than focusing broadly on company culture
- Randy recommends a symbiotic approach to business, where all activities support each other, creating synergy and momentum
- Randy prioritizes faith, family, health, and relationships above work, which he believes contributes to his business success
Topics
Randy's Background and Business
- Spent 25 years in corporate America before transitioning to executive coaching and leadership consulting 13-14 years ago
- Founded Serviam Partners to focus on executive coaching for senior leaders in Fortune 10,000 companies
- Also co-owns Leadership Foundry and has authored 12 books
Transition to Business Ownership
- Spent 12 months planning and preparing before launching Serviam Partners
- Interviewed successful coaches to gather best practices and develop his business model
- Secured potential clients by discussing his offering with 10 clients/friends before launching
Executive Coaching Approach
- Focuses on helping individual leaders become the best versions of themselves
- Aims to identify and overcome obstacles to success, manage stress, and improve leadership skills
- Typically hired by companies to work with their leaders, rather than individuals hiring directly
New Book: "Practical Virtue"
- 12th book, focused on Gen Z and early career professionals (21 to early 30s)
- Covers 64 virtues in alphabetical order, with short, practical chapters
- Designed to be used with a mentor for maximum impact
Business Philosophy and Commitments
- Prioritizes faith, family, health, relationships, and then work (in that order)
- Aims to give away as many books as he sells (1000 copies of "Practical Virtue" in 2023)
- Donates 25% of business profits to causes he and his wife care about
Advice for Business Owners
- Embrace a symbiotic approach where all business activities support each other
- Focus on creating synergy between different aspects of your work
- Be willing to let go of activities that don't align with your priorities
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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
Matthew Efird introduces The Family Table podcast, which focuses on family values and experiences. He shares personal details about his family, including their traditions and the format of the podcast. He also discusses the core values and parenting strategies within his family, emphasizing the importance of respect, helping each other, responsibility, and independence.
Additionally, he details the strategies for maintaining strong relationships within the family, including regular date nights and intentional time investment in their children. The conversation also touched on the challenges of navigating the pull between personal and professional commitments, and the importance of delegating tasks to create space for meaningful investments in various aspects of life.
Furthermore, Matthew delves into his method for navigating challenging discussions with his children, specifically focusing on addressing intense emotions such as anger. He stresses the value of repetition and practical guidance in these interactions, highlighting the impact of his approach on fostering meaningful and productive conversations with his children. Lastly, he reflects on the wisdom and traditions he hopes to pass down to future generations, focusing on the values of taking ownership of actions and fostering a genuine love for people within his family. The section concludes with a glimpse into the format of future conversations around the family table, where a diverse range of guests will be invited to share their wisdom.
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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
Clay Scroggins provides insights on leadership, entrepreneurship, and navigating work/life priorities.
Key Takeaways
- Clay transitioned from full-time ministry to corporate speaking, following his passion and wife's encouragement
- Mentorship is crucial, but should be approached strategically with clear expectations and follow-through
- Balancing work and family requires intentionality, setting boundaries, and adapting to different life seasons
- Listening to trusted advisors and one's spouse can provide invaluable guidance for career decisions
Topics
Clay's Career Transition
- Worked in full-time ministry for 20 years at North Point Ministries
- Resigned in 2021 to pursue corporate speaking and occasional preaching
- Transition motivated by professional restlessness and wife's encouragement
- Had 3-6 months of savings and support from previous employer during transition
Entrepreneurship and Focus
- Initially said yes to almost everything to build income and experience
- After 2 years, became more selective and focused on ideal client profile
- Target audience: Jesus-leaning business owners/leaders with 30-150 employees
- Speaks on leadership topics, particularly from his book "How to Lead When You're Not in Charge"
Mentorship and Advisory Boards
- Recommends seeking specific advice rather than open-ended mentorship
- Suggests reverse mentoring from younger individuals for fresh perspectives
- Matthew's board of advisors meets quarterly to discuss faith, family, and finances
- Emphasizes the mentee should do the heavy lifting in mentor relationships
Work-Life Balance
- Adapts travel and speaking schedule to family needs and life stages
- Prioritizes regular date nights and quarterly getaways with spouse
- Focuses on quality time with kids, understanding their interests
- Struggles with integrating faith when often preaching on Sundays
Career Advice
- Listen to trusted friends who offer career guidance
- Pay attention to spouse's intuition about career decisions
- Foster relationships with people who care and have wisdom to offer
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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
Gabrielle Mills discusses integrating faith and business.
Key Takeaways
- Gabrielle's faith journey evolved from childhood Catholicism to a deeper personal relationship with Jesus
- She integrates faith into her business (Sourced) through open discussions, charitable giving, and seeing God's provision
- As a parent, Gabrielle focuses on keeping faith present in the home while letting God work in her family's hearts
- Iron Forums played a key role in Gabrielle becoming more bold about her faith in business settings
Topics
Gabrielle's Faith Journey
- Raised Catholic but faith was tested as a teenager
- Spent years finding her way back to a strong, intimate faith
- Now has a deep personal relationship with Jesus
Iron Forums Experience
- Joined women's group when it launched, referred by Brent Stromwall
- Monthly meetings for Christian business leaders to discuss faith and work
- Helped Gabrielle become more courageous about integrating faith and business
Faith in the Workplace
- Initially uncomfortable discussing faith openly in business settings
- Gradually learned it was okay to integrate spirituality and business
- Now sees business and spiritual walks as intertwined
- Views the business as operating under God's anointing and leadership
Parenting and Faith
- Feels weight of responsibility as primary spiritual leader for her family
- Focuses on keeping prayer and God's presence in the home
- Talks about Jesus, reads Bible stories, prays with kids (ages 2 and 3)
- Tries to model relationship with Christ while letting God work in family's hearts
Book Recommendation
- "The Power of Right Believing" by Pastor Prince
- Emphasizes asking God for big things and believing He will provide
- Encourages showing up authentically in relationship with Jesus
Sourced Business Overview
- Back office services company based in Atlanta
- Offers fractional accounting, marketing, HR and admin support
- Also does full-time direct hire placements
- Sees God's provision in the business through unexpected income
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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
Leroy Hite discusses his entrepreneurial journey and experiences.
Key Takeaways
- Leroy built a luxury firewood company called Cutting Edge Firewood from scratch, growing it to 35 employees before a successful exit
- He emphasized the importance of resilience, creativity, and embracing challenges in entrepreneurship
- Faith played a significant role in Leroy's journey, providing guidance and strength during difficult times
- The business evolved from local deliveries to nationwide shipping, becoming a multi-faceted operation
Topics
Early Business Ventures
- Started a firewood company in college that failed due to inexperience and overambition
- Won a bid for Kroger's southeast firewood supply without proper infrastructure
- Learned valuable lessons about industry inefficiencies and customer experience
Founding Cutting Edge Firewood
- Launched in 2013 after being fired from a corporate job
- Initially operated solo with support from his wife
- Focused on creating a premium firewood experience, not just a commodity
Business Growth and Innovation
- Sold house in 2017 to invest in rebranding, warehouse, and first employees
- Patented a delivery rack system, reducing delivery times from 2 hours to 15 minutes
- Expanded into cooking wood and nationwide shipping
- Revenue quadrupled from 2019 to 2020 during COVID-19 pandemic
Marketing and Brand Awareness
- Utilized yard signs across Metro Atlanta for widespread brand recognition
- Invested in SEO to dominate online firewood searches
- Developed creative solutions for shipping challenges, like sending apology boxes
Business Structure and Exit
- Grew to 35 employees with departments for customer service, logistics, delivery, and warehousing
- Operated as "five businesses in one" - local delivery, same-day box delivery, nationwide shipping, bulk freight, and marketing/PR
- Successfully exited the business in 2024 after 11 years of operation
Post-Exit Activities
- Currently doing limited consulting for B2C companies
- Planning to launch a new outdoor product-focused business
You can subscribe to the podcast at https://matthewefird.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