Finding Purpose and Fulfillment in Midlife: Insights from Adam Landrum of "Made to Matter"

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Adam Landrum, Founder & Coach of Made to Matter. Adam opens up about his own midlife journey and how he now helps men redefine success, discover purpose, and create lives filled with meaning and adventure. Drawing from his coaching experience and his book, The Life That Matters Manifesto, Adam provides actionable steps for men ready to move beyond the midlife "crisis" into a season of personal transformation.

Redefining Identity, Embracing Vulnerability, and Creating a Life That Matters

Adam Landrum challenges the outdated notion that midlife signifies decline, sharing how selling his business triggered a personal identity shift that ultimately opened the door to deeper meaning. He invites men to explore their true desires and define success beyond titles and achievements. For Adam, midlife isn’t an ending—it’s a launchpad for reinvention.

He emphasizes the growing cultural embrace of vulnerability and emotional openness among men. Through tools like journaling, coaching, and honest conversations, Adam encourages emotional literacy and connection. These elements are essential to navigating personal transformation with clarity and courage.

Central to Adam’s message is his purpose-vision-mission framework featured in The Life That Matters Manifesto. He urges men to find alignment through meaningful work, personal adventure, and intentional action. Whether it’s launching a project or taking a trip, fulfillment starts with defining what truly matters and taking bold steps in that direction.

About Adam Landrum:

Adam Landrum is a seasoned executive coach with over 1,000 coaching hours. Since 2016, he has guided leaders ranging from Fortune 100 executives to entrepreneurs. With two executive coaching certifications, he specializes in helping men in their second half of life find more purpose, fulfillment, and the courage to pursue their vision. He is the author of The Life That Matters Manifesto: 11 Principles to Know and Commit to Live a Life That Matters, a guide to living with purpose and meaning. After selling his advertising agency in 2023, Adam dedicated himself fully to coaching, using his business background to help men boldly step into their next chapter.

About Made to Matter:

Made to Matter is a coaching and resource platform designed to help men in midlife rediscover purpose, meaning, and adventure. Through structured coaching, books, and workbooks, Adam Landrum equips clients with the tools to build lives filled with clarity and impact.

Links Mentioned in this Episode:

Episode Highlights:

Redefining identity after a career shift or retirement
Embracing vulnerability and emotional intelligence for growth
Developing purpose, vision, and mission statements
The role of adventure and meaningful work in midlife
Adam’s 13-week coaching program and personal transformation process

Conclusion

Josh and Adam's conversation sheds light on the rich possibilities that midlife offers. From reclaiming identity to embracing personal growth and adventure, Adam’s coaching empowers men to live lives aligned with their core values and deeper desires. If you're ready to move beyond routine and reconnect with what really matters, this episode offers a path to purpose and fulfillment.

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