What if goal setting were less about writing down lofty dreams and more about becoming the person equipped to achieve them? In this Edge of Excellence collage episode, host Matt Stewart curates transformative stories, hard-won lessons, and practical systems from high-achievers who have redefined excellence through powerful goal-setting mindsets. Whether navigating unforeseen setbacks, reinventing themselves, or maintaining progress through adversity, these voices reveal how clarity, consistency, and resilience—not perfection—shape a remarkable life. You’ll discover that excellence isn’t achieved in a single leap but in showing up daily, striving to improve by just 1%, and learning to adapt goals as life changes. These guests open up about the real power of knowing your why, embracing discomfort, confronting self-doubt, and turning every setback into an opportunity to rise stronger. From developing a clear vision (Joe John Duran), living with conviction (David Renberg), and choosing to do your best every day (Lisa Merage), to practicing active waiting and following passions (Lydia Hodgson), this episode proves there’s no finish line to excellence, only the daily commitment to grow. Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – Jeff Gunhus defines excellence as “a choice to pursue the best version of yourself”—balancing being happy and dissatisfied to continually improve. [00:56] – Matt Stewart sets up the collage: This is goal setting without the fluff—real talk about showing up, staying committed, and the role of the voice in your head. [01:32] – Genevieve Elefante-Sigmund shares how excellence is fighting for another day, being kind to yourself, and accepting there’s no perfect finish—only continual evolution. [02:39] – Joe John Duran explains how viewing the world as “happening for you” versus “to you” fosters responsibility, happiness, and the drive to give more than you take. He details the transformative power of writing granular, specific goals—for career, personal growth, and relationships. [07:45] – Lydia Hodgson describes excellence as consistently adding value and being open to growth—urging you to try new things, apply your strengths broadly, and embrace “active waiting” by putting in the work, even if you don’t have a set outcome. [10:14] – Lisa Merage says excellence is a conscious way of being—a daily choice to do your best, control your attitude, and evolve by stepping out of your comfort zone (like running for leadership roles and breaking barriers). [12:36] – Jeff Gunhus and David Renberg reinforce that excellence is not about talent, but outcome-oriented action, staying true to your convictions, and continually striving to be better, no matter your field. [15:09] – Caden Brunell explains how a “1% better every day” mindset, consistent discipline, and a focus on personal growth—more than just big goals—laid the groundwork for his aspirations and future career. About the GuestsJeff Gunhus — Entrepreneur and author focused on pursuing the best version of yourself and embracing the continual interplay of happiness and growth. | Episode 131: Jeff Gunhus CEO, Home Genius Exteriors - Choosing Excellence - Building Vision and Culture Genevieve Elefante-Sigmund — Advocate of kindness, self-acceptance, and resilience as the keys to sustaining excellence. | Episode 120: Genevieve Elefante-Sigmund - Beyond The Bottom Line Joe John Duran — Leader who champions ownership, detailed goal-setting, and giving more than you take as the root of success. | Episode 94: Joe John Duran - Life Doesn’t Happen to You, It Happens for You Lydia Hodgson — Believes in active self-discovery, building on your strengths, and the value of consistent effort. | Episode 116: Lydia Hodgson - Empowerment Through Vulnerability Lisa Merage — Pushes the idea that excellence is a daily choice and an ongoing process of personal evolution. | Episode 122: Lisa Merage - Leading with Purpose - Transforming Women's Sports and Business David Renberg — Describes excellence as sticking to your convictions and focusing on big-picture results, not just tasks. | Episode 135: David Renberg - The Massive Value of Making Meaningful Connections with People Caden Brunell — Embodies discipline and sees excellence as embracing the process of incremental daily improvement. | Episode 161: Caden Brunell - Transform Your Life Today by Leaning into Discomfort and Grit Important LinksGrow, do great work, and lead the way: National Services Group (NSG)Join our Student Professional Program: Internship ApplicationConnect with Matt on LinkedInWatch full interviews on YouTube The Edge of Excellence is an original podcast hosted by Matthew Stewart. Brought to you by College Works. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.
