The Edge Of Excellence Podcast

Matthew Stewart
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The Edge Of Excellence Podcast is about exploring how young aspiring leaders can create a personal impact today, tomorrow, and create their dream future now. The goal is to deconstruct and synthesize successful archetypes and proven principles from high-profile entrepreneurs, systems, and resources that work, successful peers, mentors, and creators. Learn more: https://www.collegeworks.com/

  1. 15H AGO

    174: Best of: Leadership Part 2

    Are you ready to move from dreaming about leadership to actually living it? If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to earn trust, rise above your peers, or lead with impact—even before you have the title—this special Edge of Excellence collage episode is for you. Host Matt Stewart spotlights hard-won wisdom from diverse voices: rising CEOs, seasoned sales leaders, and trailblazing entrepreneurs. You’ll hear how to own your strengths, why building killer systems is non-negotiable, plus the real reason surrounding yourself with the right people changes everything. Expect practical, gritty stories, not shallow theory, from the drama of manual labor to boardroom breakthroughs, and from making value your calling card to the selfless sacrifices top leaders make. Don’t let indecision or stale advice keep you stuck. Listen now for exclusive, straight-from-the-frontline tactics you won’t hear anywhere else. This episode could be the spark that launches your leadership journey NOW… not next year, not after your first job, but today. Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – Why wanting to be “the boss” is only the beginning of real leadership (with a football team twist) [01:02] – Earning trust before the title: the power of actionable ownership and creating systems [02:36] – The surprising upside of focusing your business (and life) for exponential growth [04:01] – Outgrowing your pond: When (and how) to surround yourself with high-performers who elevate your game [05:23] – The “everyone’s got good service” illusion… and how to make your value unforgettable and irreplaceable [06:33] – Inside the hardest job in business: Why true leaders sacrifice for their teams—and why most never see it coming [07:43] – The difference between dreaming of excellence and actually living it (plus your bold invitation) [08:07] – A secret path to mentorship, career clarity, and real-world leadership experience for ambitious students About the GuestsConrad Kaminski – Natural leader and young CEO driven by a passion for taking ownership, creating systems, and adding value wherever he contributes. | Episode 67 - Conrad Kaminsky | Extreme Ownership for Success Pete Schnepp – Growth-focused entrepreneur emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with high-achieving peers to expand vision and possibility. | Episode 89 - Pete Schnepp | Excellence Is The Journey, Not The Destination Steve Kearley – Innovative insurance leader known for differentiating businesses by delivering real, ongoing value beyond price and service. | Episode 128 - Steve Kearley | Leveraging Failures and Fostering Growth Steve Tchejeyan – Tech industry leader whose servant leadership style prioritizes team success, personal sacrifice, and a passion for people over personal gain. | Episode 146 - Steve Tchejeyan | Unraveling the Ambition Paradox in Professional Growth Important LinksGrow, do great work, and lead the way: a href="https://rebrand.ly/acb9b9" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    9 min

  2. 12/30/2025

    173: Best of: Goal Setting Part 1

    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...

    18 min

  3. 12/23/2025

    172: Best of: Time Management

    What if time management wasn’t just about cramming more into your day—but about building a life you genuinely want to live? In this Edge of Excellence collage episode, host Matt Stewart brings together actionable stories, strategies, and honest reflections from leaders and entrepreneurs who have mastered the art of making time work for them. Whether balancing business growth, academic demands, or relationships, these voices reveal practical systems and mindsets that empower you to reclaim your day, reduce overwhelm, and stay true to what matters most. You’ll learn how prioritization, disciplined planning, organization, and the right habits aren’t just productivity hacks—they’re the foundation for achieving excellence across work, life, and relationships. The episode goes beyond surface-level advice, exploring the real sacrifices, mindset shifts, and systems that help ambitious leaders thrive. From ruthlessly protecting time for family (Eric Rose), embracing short-term sacrifices for long-term gains (Dane Mauland), to finding freedom and less stress through detailed calendars (Nic Bair), this episode highlights that there’s no secret—just intentional choices, honest evaluation, and a willingness to continually adapt. Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – Dane Mauland on developing time management and sacrificing spring breaks for long-term career success—why planning your week and sticking to it matter more than secrets or shortcuts. [01:40] – Dane Mauland explains the “Google Calendar method”—blocking out non-negotiable items first, then flexibly filling in deadlines, priorities, and personal moments. [06:16] – David Renberg and Matt Stewart discuss the transformative impact of hiring staff, delegating soul-sucking tasks, and not over-scheduling your day—why 70% capacity leads to greater efficiency and responsiveness. [09:52] – Eric Rose shares the importance of fitness, clear priorities, and living your list—plus why having a habit of reviewing business data and making time for family never takes a back seat. [11:48] – Filip Matic reveal the power of nightly planning—writing down tasks, allocating time slots, and how this not only boosts productivity but also leads to better sleep and less stress. [14:21] – Johnny Rhee tells how treating his studies like a 9-to-5 job provided structure and freed up his evenings—turning relentless academic and work demands into manageable routines and lifelong habits. [17:50] – Nic Bair mirrors Dane Mauland: planning out every week and every priority, including social and personal time, for a life without those sudden “Oh my god!” stressors. [19:26] – Pete Schnepp describes how discipline, note-taking, and keeping commitments to class (even after long nights) built the resilience and productivity needed for success. About the GuestsDane Mauland — Software engineer, entrepreneur, and advocate for discipline and long-term planning, proving that short-term sacrifices can translate to lasting professional fulfillment. | Episode 19: Dane Mauland - Discover The Meaning Of Passion and Excellence David Renberg — Real estate leader passionate about freeing up time through staff, delegation, and the right mindset. | Episode 135: David Renberg - The Massive Value of Making Meaningful Connections with People Eric Rose — Real estate investor and entrepreneur, prioritizes fitness, organization, and family above all. | a...

    21 min

  4. 12/16/2025

    171: Best of: DISC Assessment

    Are you still fighting for success in a role that drains you? What if the secret isn’t working harder… but understanding yourself more deeply than ever before? In this dynamic Edge of Excellence collage episode, host Matt Stewart brings together the most insightful moments with Max Alesi and Matt Maneage to unravel the surprising, emotional impact of the DISC assessment. Hear raw stories of struggle, the destructive cost of misalignment, and the game-changing clarity that comes from knowing your unique strengths. Discover how self-awareness, not just discipline, is the true engine of career growth, fulfillment, and leadership. Don’t risk years stuck on the wrong path. Tune in now for exclusive, field-tested takeaways that will empower you to pivot fast, avoid burnout, and unlock your potential. The opportunity to realign your career and your life starts here, and you won’t find these insights anywhere else. Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – Why fighting against your nature is the fastest road to quitting (and what you can do instead). [00:46] – The single leadership lesson every driven young person must absorb—before they burn out. [01:22] – When Max Alesi and Matt Maneage realized DISC was the catalyst for authentic success. [02:00] – The hilarious (and costly) outcome of ignoring your DISC insight on the job. [02:40] – Why years of frustration in the wrong career are completely avoidable—and how. [03:29] – Raw truths about discipline, joy, and the emotional grind of staying (or not staying) on your path. [04:42] – The “driver influencer” advantage, plus shocking ways to bend your strengths to your goals. [06:25] – Why “good enough” doesn’t cut it—and the emotional upgrade that comes with realignment. About the GuestsMax Alesi – Entrepreneur and advocate for personal alignment, Max emphasizes the power of choosing work that fits your natural strengths and personality. His insights reveal how tuning into what excites and motivates you paves the way for sustainable progress and lasting fulfillment. | Episode 44: Max Alesi | Discovering the Right Path For You and Going After Excellence Matt Maneage – A seasoned leader in the automotive industry, Matt Maneage shares his personal journey with DISC profiles, illustrating how pivoting from misaligned roles (like finance) into his natural zone (sales and management) can unlock true professional growth. His experience underlines the power of self-awareness in designing a career that fits. | Episode 52: Matt Maneage | Excellence Through Giving It 100% Physically and Mentally 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.

    8 min

  5. 12/11/2025

    170: Best of: Stress Management

    What if handling adversity was less about avoiding stress and more about growing alongside it?  In this Edge of Excellence collage episode, host Matt Stewart curates transformative stories and mental frameworks from five exceptional guests—Genevieve Elefante-Sigmund, Caden Brunell, Lydia Hodgson, and Payson Maydew—for anyone seeking to turn life’s pressures into fuel for progress. Here, you’ll hear firsthand how deep breaths, clarity of purpose, and an openness to growth can change the way you relate to stress. The episode moves beyond clichéd advice, diving into practical tools, honest reflections, and inner mindset shifts that empower ambitious young leaders to thrive—even in the face of setbacks. From giving yourself kindness and grace (Genevieve Elefante-Sigmund), to getting out of your comfort zone (Caden Brunell), to embracing challenge as a catalyst for change (Lydia Hodgson), and mastering time management and mindset (Payson Maydew), these voices reveal that stress isn’t the enemy; it’s the invitation to excellence. Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – Genevieve Elefante-Sigmund on recognizing stress, pausing, and reframing adversity as opportunity—“there’s always a window, even when doors are closed.” [01:49] – Caden Brunell on pushing past comfort and fighting for growth—why “the path to heaven feels like hell,” and how consistency pays off in the future. [03:08] – Genevieve Elefante-Sigmund redefines excellence as daily resilience, self-kindness, and relentless, imperfect progress. [05:40] – Lydia Hodgson on deep breathing, seeking perspective, and inviting challenge as a reason to grow—not a reason to retreat. [07:22] – Payson Maydew reflects on bouncing back from adversity, learning from every setback, and using structure—“every 10 minutes of my day was planned”—as a tool to reduce stress and focus on what matters. About the GuestsGenevieve Elefante-Sigmund – An inspiring leader devoted to growth, self-compassion, and honest storytelling—reminding us that excellence is a process of listening, learning, and rising, one day at a time. | Episode 120: Genevieve Elefante-Sigmund | Beyond The Bottom Line Caden Brunell – Former nervous talker turned confident communicator, showing that stepping far outside your comfort zone is where true capability and resilience are born. | Episode 161: Caden Brunell | Transform Your Life Today by Leaning into Discomfort and Grit Lydia Hodgson – Reflective and growth-minded, she invites listeners to accept the tough times as a springboard for positive change—and to never fear outgrowing who you are now. | Episode 116: Lydia Hodgson | Empowerment Through Vulnerability Payson Maydew – Track athlete and time-management pro offering a practical playbook for converting adversity into progress, all while setting your own standard of excellence. | Episode 13: Payson Maydew | Overcoming Adversity in Pursuit of Excellence Important LinksGrow, do great work, and lead the way: National Services Group (NSG)Join our Student Professional Program: Internship ApplicationConnect with Matt on a href="https://rebrand.ly/a571d1"...

    11 min

  6. 12/04/2025

    169: Best of: Relationship Management

    What does it really take to build relationships that last? Not just the shiny highlight-reel moments, but the gritty, human, honest parts that make connection the real currency of success. In this Edge of Excellence collage episode, host Matt Stewart brings together powerful voices—Jason Reid, Breanna Kaufman, Isaiah Henry, David Renberg, and Joe Clavin—to explore how trust, integrity, empathy, and genuine care shape everything from business partnerships to leadership, sales, and personal growth. From learning how to stay connected in the chaos, to building teams that feel like family, to showing up with authenticity even when it’s hard, these stories remind us that relationships aren’t an accessory to success; they are the foundation of it. You’ll hear about loyalty and long-term partnership (Jason Reid), building trust through service and authenticity (Breanna Kaufman), leading with heart and human connection (Isaiah Henry), slowing down to truly value people over tasks (David Renberg), and learning to coach, challenge, and encourage those around you (Joe Clavin). Together they show that strong relationships aren’t given… they’re built. Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – Jason Reid on loyalty, partnership, conflict, and why trust is the core of every long-term relationship. [02:05] – Jason Reid on excellence being defined by the quality of the relationships you build. [05:00] – Breanna Kaufman on choosing the right people, lifelong mentors, and why caring deeply makes you unforgettable in sales. [07:41] – Breanna Kaufman on serving clients, being “their person,” and building trust through empathy and presence. [09:12] – Isaiah Henry on why relationships are the most important currency we have—and how genuine connection beats strategy every time. [11:18] – Isaiah Henry on attracting great people, building healthy cultures, and why success comes from taking care of others. [11:55] – David Renberg on shifting from task-focused to people-focused, and why seeing the human in front of you changes everything. [14:14] – Joe Clavin on coaching, challenging, and encouraging others with emotional intelligence and personal ownership. About the GuestsJason Reid – Entrepreneur and longtime partner of Matt Stewart, known for his belief that excellence is measured through trust, loyalty, and the relationships you steward. | Episode 90: Jason Reid | Relationships Are Everything in Business Breanna Kaufman – Top-performing sales professional whose relationship-first approach transforms client interactions into meaningful, long-term connections. | Episode 48: Breanna Kaufman | Excelling in Relationship Building, Martial Arts and Professional Sales Isaiah Henry – CEO of Seabreeze Management, championing people-first leadership, authentic connection, and building cultures where individuals feel valued. | Episode 74: Isaiah Henry | Creating Your Own Serendipity David Renberg – Real estate advisor and entrepreneur focused on community, connection, and slowing down enough to truly see and serve others. | Episode 135: David Renberg | The Massive Value of Making Meaningful Connections with People Joe Clavin – Business leader, coach, and former College Works manager known for his practical wisdom on ownership,...

    19 min

  7. 11/25/2025

    168: Best of: Life Planning

    What does intentional living really look like? It’s not about following someone else’s script. It’s about knowing what matters, choosing with clarity, and building a life that aligns with your values. In this Edge of Excellence collage episode, host Matt Stewart brings together seven powerful voices—Dane Mauland, Chris Krause, Cody Voelker, Jerome Stewart, Keaton Petite, Kyle Emerick, and Chris Marsh—to explore how purposeful life planning shapes long-term happiness, fulfillment, and excellence. From defining your values and setting meaningful goals to choosing sacrifice over comfort and designing a path that reflects your true priorities, these stories show that life planning is both art and discipline. You’ll hear about finding the intersection of passion and excellence (Dane Mauland), building a value-driven life plan (Chris Krause & Chris Marsh), aligning your goals with your deepest “why” (Cody Voelker), choosing bold paths and compounding life experiences (Jerome Stewart), rediscovering joy and authenticity through reflection (Keaton Petite), prioritizing what matters most (Kyle Emerick), and holding yourself accountable through honest self-assessment and sacrifice. Together, they remind us that your life won’t magically become what you want, you have to design it, refine it, and commit to it every day. Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – Dane Mauland on why life is “long and short” and how to choose work that brings excellence and fulfillment. [02:06] – Chris Krause & Chris Marsh on defining your values, honoring what matters, and building a meaningful life plan. [03:35] – Cody Voelker on aligning goals with purpose and becoming the best version of yourself daily. [06:00] – Dane Mauland on sacrifice, prioritization, and giving up the unimportant to build the life you want. [08:50] – Jerome Stewart on bold life choices, adventure, and pursuing paths that shape who you become. [12:04] – Keaton Petite on stepping back, asking hard questions, and redefining success through joy and authenticity. [14:23] – Kyle Emerick on prioritizing the 5 F’s and journaling your way through life’s crucible moments. About the GuestsDane Mauland – Finance professional and educator known for his philosophy that life is “long and short,” emphasizing intentional career and life decisions. | Episode 19: Dane Mauland | Discover The Meaning Of Passion and Excellence Chris Krause – Founder of NCSA, emphasizing relationship-building, mentorship, and clarity in creating a life plan. | Episode 47: Chris Krause | The Power of Relationships and Turning Your Passion into a Life Plan Chris Marsh – Leader and life strategist focused on defining values and creating meaningful accountability systems. | Episode 163: Chris Marsh | From Setbacks to Success: The Hidden Secrets of Resilient Leaders Cody Voelker – Real estate entrepreneur focused on long-term thinking, goal alignment, and everyday excellence. | Episode 57: Cody Voelker | Finding Success in Real Estate Investing Jerome Stewart – International professional and Peace Corps veteran, known for bold choices and embracing diverse life paths. | a href="https://collegeworks.com/podcasts/26-jerome-stewart-there-is-more-than-one-path-to-excellence/"...

    17 min

  8. 11/18/2025

    167: Best of: Career Hunt

    Finding the right career isn’t about luck, but it’s about clarity, courage, and consistency. In this Edge of Excellence collage episode, host Matt Stewart brings together career lessons from John Bruckner, Andrew Reid, Devid O’Dowd, Danielle Whitaker, Jerome Stewart, Steve Tchejeyan, and Michael Yates — seven leaders who’ve built exceptional careers by being curious, intentional, and bold. From finding mentors and identifying the right company to owning your strengths and crafting your story, this episode dives deep into what it really takes to land and grow in a career you love. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to pivot, these voices share the strategies, mindsets, and truths that turn opportunity into impact. Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – Matt Stewart introduces the core of the career hunt: curiosity, courage, and consistency. [00:30] – John Bruckner: Be open. Seek mentors and relationships — most successful people want to help. [02:00] – Andrew Reid: How to pick the right company (and manager) by following venture capital indicators. [05:00] – Devid O’Dowd: Embrace your natural superpower and stay true to your authentic strengths. [06:30] – Danielle Whitaker: Use StrengthsFinder to know yourself and tell a confident story in interviews. [08:00] – Jerome Stewart: Stand out through meaningful, long-term experiences — and the power of perseverance. [10:30] – Steve Tchejeyan: Know your story. Be intentional, consistent, and proactive in every opportunity. [13:00] – Michael Yates: How foundational business skills build long-term success and self-belief. About the GuestsJohn Bruckner – Entrepreneur and mentor passionate about connection and lifelong curiosity. | Episode 126 - John Bruckner | Redefining Work-Life Integration Andrew Reid – Business leader and investor, sharing insights on strategic career choices. | Episode 93 - Andrew Reid | Navigating the Tech World Devid O’Dowd – Executive focused on leadership, authenticity, and performance. | Episode 39 - Devin O‘Dowd | Working Smarter and The Shockingly Simple Basics of Success Danielle Whitaker – Talent leader who helps others uncover and leverage their strengths. | Episode 17 - Danielle Whitaker | Flourish Through Professional and Personal Challenges Jerome Stewart – Business professional and Peace Corps alumnus advocating for grit and experience. | Episode 26 - Jerome Stewart | There Is More Than One Path To Excellence Steve Tchejeyan – Executive coach guiding professionals toward clarity and consistency. | Episode 146 - Steve Tchejeyan | Unraveling the Ambition Paradox in Professional Growth Michael Yates – Entrepreneur and business leader emphasizing the power of foundational skills. | Episode 43 - Michael Yates | Driving Growth Through Passion and Work...

    17 min
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4.9
out of 5
58 Ratings

About

The Edge Of Excellence Podcast is about exploring how young aspiring leaders can create a personal impact today, tomorrow, and create their dream future now. The goal is to deconstruct and synthesize successful archetypes and proven principles from high-profile entrepreneurs, systems, and resources that work, successful peers, mentors, and creators. Learn more: https://www.collegeworks.com/

Information

  • Creator
    Matthew Stewart
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    174
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2021-2024+ CollegeWorks
  • Show Website
    The Edge Of Excellence Podcast