In this heartfelt episode of the Something Extra podcast, Matt and Maria Granados, founders of the Take Part Foundation, explore how faith and intentionality shape their lives and leadership. From their unique beginnings at Eagle U—a program dedicated to equipping young people with real-world success skills—to their entrepreneurial journeys and service-driven careers, Matt and Maria share how listening to their calling has led to unexpected opportunities and deeper impact. Tune in for inspiring stories, practical leadership lessons, and a reminder that the “something extra” in all of us can make a difference when we lead with purpose and heart.
Bio: Matt Granados is a dynamic entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and advocate for intentional living. His journey is marked by a passion for empowering individuals and organizations to achieve their fullest potential.
Life Pulse Inc.: Matt is the President of Life Pulse Inc., a company dedicated to helping individuals and teams maximize their capacity while minimizing burnout. Through Life Pulse, Matt has developed systems and techniques that combine structure and intention, enabling people to achieve sustainable motivation and success. His work has impacted organizations ranging from small businesses to global giants like Twitter and Google.
Take Part Foundation: Alongside his wife, Maria, Matt co-founded the Take Part Foundation, a nonprofit organization focused on advancing research for rare pediatric diseases and supporting families in need. Inspired by their daughter Natalie’s diagnosis with PYROXD1, Matt and Maria have raised significant funds to support groundbreaking medical research and provide resources for families navigating rare diseases.
Matt is also a sought-after speaker and author, known for his engaging and practical approach to personal and professional development. His books, including Motivate the Unmotivated and The Intentional Week, have become valuable resources for individuals seeking to live more purposeful lives.
Above all, Matt is a devoted husband and father, whose work is deeply rooted in his faith and commitment to making a positive impact on the world.
Maria Granados is a passionate advocate for empowering individuals and families to live intentional and impactful lives. As the co-founder and Executive Director of the Take Part Foundation, Maria works to advance research funding for rare pediatric diseases. Inspired by her daughter Natalie’s diagnosis with the rare genetic disorder PYROXD1, Maria and her husband, Matt, established the foundation to support groundbreaking medical research and provide resources for families navigating rare diseases, specifically funding testing for families who get denied access by insurance. Under her leadership, the foundation has raised significant funds to support research initiatives and assist families in accessing essential genetic testing.
In addition to her nonprofit work, Maria is also the co-founder of Life Pulse Inc., a company dedicated to helping individuals and organizations build productive and intentional lives. Through her work with Life Pulse, Maria collaborates with mission-driven teams, families, and individuals to create systems that enhance productivity and connect people to purpose.
Maria’s commitment to making a difference is guided by her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ and a belief in the power of action and community. She strives to inspire hope, foster connection, and create meaningful change for families facing extraordinary challenges.
Something Extra:
Matt – “Their identity is not tied up in themselves… that willingness and desire to understand versus be understood.”
Maria – “Let your fight shine.”
