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What if you really can have it all, just not all at once? For the milestone 200th episode and the season 7 finale, Matt Stewart brings on two of the sharpest leaders he knows, Nicole McMackin and Lisa Bhathal Merage, for a raw, funny, and honest look at what it really takes to rise to the top as a woman in business. Nicole runs a technology staffing company, which she took over at 29. Lisa built a global swimwear brand with her brother, sold it to private equity, and now co-owns a portfolio of professional sports teams. Together, they get into fear versus positive thinking, the myth of being ready, why they never saw a glass ceiling, and how to have it all without trying to do it all at once. If you are waiting to feel qualified before you make your move, this conversation will change how you think about that. Listen now. Timestamped Highlights 00:01:37 - Can men and women really be friends? The question that reframes the whole episode00:09:02 - The one habit behind Lisa’s success, and it started with her parents00:14:13 - Nicole’s success habit, plus the word she now says to almost everything00:17:44 - The pivotal yes that changed Nicole’s life at 2900:19:19 - Why nobody is ever ready, and why that should not stop you00:23:09 - The night 26,000 fans convinced Lisa to bet on women’s sports00:25:16 - "I didn’t know there was a glass ceiling" and what that belief unlocked00:34:23 - The prioritization secret behind having it all without doing it all00:45:24 - The barrier question flipped: why the opportunity now belongs to women00:52:43 - What organizations get wrong about showing people a path up00:55:00 - The two books these CEOs credit for how they lead Mentioned Resources The Infinite Game by Simon SinekThe Devil Wears Prada by Lauren WeisbergerRevitate (real estate and sports investment platform)Portland Thorns FC (NWSL)Portland Fire (WNBA)University of Pennsylvania (Social Impact Strategy certificate)YPO (Young Presidents’ Organization)Karina LeBlancMegan Rapinoe About The Guests Nicole McMackin is President and CEO of Irvine Technology Corporation, an award-winning IT solutions and staffing firm based in Southern California. She took over the company as a young executive and grew it into a nationally recognized, women-owned business. A passionate advocate for women in technology, she teaches Women in Leadership programs and mentors the next generation of female leaders. Curious by nature and candid about her own fears, Nicole is known for pushing through discomfort, saying yes to the right opportunities, and helping others find a real path to the top. 🔗 LinkedIn | Website Lisa Bhathal Merage is Managing Partner and Chief Impact Officer of Revitate, a Newport Beach investment platform focused on real estate, sports, and consumer brands. She and her brother worked their way up in the family business to become co-CEOs of women’s swimwear company RAJ Swim, took it global, and sold it to private equity in what is regarded as the largest buyout in the swimwear industry. Today, she serves as Governor of the Portland Thorns (NWSL) and the Portland Fire (WNBA), helping shape the future of women’s professional sports. A USC Marshall graduate with a Certificate in Social Impact Strategy from the University of Pennsylvania, Lisa leads with fearless positivity and a deep belief in creating lasting community impact. 🔗 LinkedIn | Website Important Links Grow, 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.

What if chasing perfection is the very thing that keeps you stuck? Matt Stewart reconnects with Cameron Herold, the former COO who scaled 1-800-GOT-JUNK from 2 million to 106 million in revenue, founded the COO Alliance, and now hosts the Second in Command podcast. Eighteen years after they first crossed paths, they trade stories from their shared roots in college house painting and dig into the mindset that built Cameron's career. You will hear why momentum beats perfection, how a summer painting job became a real-world MBA, the free publicity trick that gets a nobody into the newspaper, and how to find the handful of things you are truly good at and love. Cameron also opens up about the one sacrifice he still regrets and what shifted for him at 60. Listen now for candid, hard-won wisdom you will not hear anywhere else. Timestamped Highlights02:18 - The definition of excellence that made him flip the whole question on its head04:14 - Why good enough built a business that perfectionism never could06:11 - The $10,000 flyer that launched a lifetime of scaling companies08:42 - The real-world MBA hiding inside a summer painting job14:31 - The honest reason he walked away at 100 million17:46 - The free publicity trick that put a college kid in the newspaper21:12 - Why the right room changes everything for a young entrepreneur28:13 - How to find the three things you are good at and love37:21 - The one sacrifice from his 20s that he still regrets41:46 - What shifts at 60 once you have crossed off every goal About The GuestCameron Herold is a business growth expert, speaker, and author known as the COO Whisperer. As COO of 1-800-GOT-JUNK, he helped scale the company from 2 million to 106 million in revenue in about six years. He is the founder of the COO Alliance, the global network for the second in command, and the host of the Second in Command podcast. A bestselling author of several business books and a top rated international speaker who has presented on every continent, including Antarctica, Cameron got his start in the same college house painting world as Matt, then went on to build and advise companies around the globe. 🔗 LinkedIn | Website | The Second in Command Podcast Mentioned Resources1-800-GOT-JUNKCOO AllianceCollege Pro PaintersEntrepreneurs' Organization (EO)YPOVistageStrategic CoachGenius NetworkGuy KawasakiSolarCityBoyd Group (Gerber Collision)Nurse Next DoorDan MartellPowder MountainTED 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.

What if the fastest way to build something big is to stop chasing fast money? Sean Phelps reconnects with Colin McGuire, a College Works alum he worked alongside in the Illinois division two decades ago. Colin went from a self-described, generally unemployable student with severe ADHD to running a growth marketing agency and launching Glimmr, a superfood haircare brand now scaling fast inside Target. They get into the messy 20-year road most people never see. The T-shirt hustles, the wooden toothbrushes, a viral prank gift site, the broke nights in Vegas, and the hundred-plus door-to-door sales pitches that later helped him walk into Target HQ and win. Colin breaks down why staying calm keeps you in the arena, how one skill compounds over a decade, and why patience beats hype. If you are waiting to feel ready or chasing the next shiny thing online, this conversation is your wake-up call. Listen now. Timestamped Highlights00:56 – The three-part definition of excellence that starts with a surprising word 02:11 – The truth behind the overnight success nobody talks about 05:06 – Why being generally unemployable turned out to be an advantage 07:50 – The classroom moment that made door-to-door sales sound perfect 21:12 – His first six-figure profit came from the most boring product imaginable 30:09 – Broke in a 40-dollar Vegas motel, he meets the partner who changes everything 36:55 – The real growth numbers, and where Glimmr goes nationwide next 41:03 – No boardroom, no PowerPoint: the Target pitch that almost fell apart 47:53 – The one skill he tells every young person to master first About The GuestColin McGuire is the co-founder and CEO of Boomn, a full-service growth marketing agency he started in 2017, and the CEO and co-founder of Glimmr, a superfood hair care brand built around its 10-minute hair mask. A College Works Painting alum and Illinois State University graduate, Colin spent years building and selling a portfolio of scrappy ecommerce businesses before turning that hard-won experience into an agency and a fast-scaling consumer brand now expanding across Target and other major retailers. 🔗 LinkedIn Mentioned ResourcesGlimmr (superfood hair care brand)Boomn (growth marketing agency)College Works PaintingIllinois State UniversitySpringdale VenturesTargetTJX Companies (Canada retail partner)TikTok ShopUdemy (GAAP accounting course)KickstarterFlippa (website marketplace)AmazonShopifyWooCommerce 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.

What if the reason you feel stuck is that you keep believing you have to pick just one thing? In this episode, Matt Stewart sits down with Caleb Hyman, a 20-year-old who plays college football, runs a district for College Works, and still makes time for his friends and family. Caleb was a four-sport high school athlete who worked all the way through, and he brought that same refusal to choose into his first years in business. They get into what Matt calls the tyranny of OR, the trap of thinking you can only do one thing well. Caleb breaks down how he stays fully present in football, school, and work, the simple way he processes stress before it piles up, and why one hard sacrifice as a young branch manager set up everything that came after. If you are tired of feeling pulled in too many directions, this conversation is your map. Listen now. Timestamped Highlights01:19 - His definition of excellence, and why hitting your goal is not the finish line03:40 - The tyranny of OR, and why Caleb refuses to pick just one thing08:20 - Four sports, a job, and school at once, without burning out10:01 - The two questions he asks to kill stress fast15:18 - Why even the highest performers have to schedule time for friends19:01 - The message in English class that pulled him off the Kwik Trip path20:41 - The leap from painter to running a six-figure branch, then a district34:49 - The three-hour weekend drive he would make all over again Mentioned ResourcesCollege Works PaintingKwik TripUniversity of Wisconsin-La CrosseVector MarketingCameron HeroldCollege ProBackwoods Log Homes About The GuestCaleb Hyman is a 20-year-old college athlete and young business leader. A four-sport high school athlete in football, baseball, wrestling, and track, and a captain in football and wrestling, he now plays college football at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. He started with College Works as a summer painter, was promoted to branch manager, where he built a six-figure business, and in his first year as a district manager, produced roughly 1.5 million dollars, one of a small handful ever to reach that mark. He plans to follow in his father's footsteps into entrepreneurship and one day run his own business. 🔗 LinkedIn 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.

What if chasing perfection, knowing you’ll never reach it, is the real secret to winning in business and in life? This episode features powerhouse young leaders Tyler Walden, Justin Bauer, Brad Bond, and Brady Druecke, all veteran College Works managers, with co-host Sean Phelps in a raw conversation with Matt Stewart. They reveal what it's really like to run a six-figure business before even graduating, the real obstacles most people ignore, and why most never make it to that elusive “next level.” You’ll hear the unfiltered truth about failure, leadership, and how to use a single tough experience to transform your impact forever. Miss this conversation and risk staying stuck in comfort while others leap ahead. Listen now for a behind-the-curtain look you won’t get from textbooks and unlock the bold moves that set the next generation of leaders apart. Timestamped Highlights01:13 – The quote that changed their entire definition of excellence 06:18 – The hidden advantage all four had before launching their businesses 14:10 – The strange power of picking the “wrong” major (and why it worked) 19:10 – The single shift that made scaling a business suddenly possible 22:51 – The brutally honest lesson most rookies ignore about real profit 29:29 – Why building a system—not just a business—is the only path to freedom 35:58 – The surprising connection between brutal honesty and building trust 42:31 – Why signing up for another year changes everything (and how) About The Guest A standout intern and fraternity president from North Dakota, Tyler Walden made history with College Works Painting as a $207,000 rookie manager and is chasing the all-time revenue record. Known for scaling his business to unprecedented heights, he brings leadership experience from both athletics and early management roles. Tyler is passionate about building scalable businesses and leading high-performing teams. 🔗 LinkedIn Hailing from Iowa, Justin Bauer grew his College Works Painting branch to $120,000 in his first year, then surpassed $150,000 the next. With a background as a four-sport athlete and experience in his family’s plumbing business, Justin is energized by hands-on work and aims to launch his own landscaping company, using his internship as a launchpad for future service-based entrepreneurship. 🔗 LinkedIn | Facebook Brad Bond juggled playing college football in Emporia, Kansas, while building his College Works Painting business to over $150,000 in revenue, doubling his success as a “double dipper.” Brad’s entrepreneurial journey started with his own lawn mowing business in high school. He’s focused on building his confidence and leadership skills and sees a future in business—where consistency and adaptability are his trademarks. A Michigan State student who jumped into business as a freshman, Brady Drueke managed $239,000 in his first year at College Works Painting and is scaling up with even more employees in his second year. A varsity athlete in high school, Brady’s early work experiences and involvement in friends’ service businesses sparked his interest in entrepreneurship, organization, and team leadership. 🔗 LinkedIn A key mentor, Sean Phelps brings years of leadership and practical business coaching to the table. As a longtime leader within the College Works Painting organization, Sean combines experience in accounting, entrepreneurship, and people development. He’s passionate about helping young leaders achieve excellence through honesty, time management, and persistent growth. 🔗 LinkedIn Mentioned ResourcesVince Lombardi (quote on chasing perfection)Nick Saban (coaching mindset)Michigan State UniversityEmporia State UniversityNDSU (North Dakota State University) 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.

What if the only thing between you and your dream life was rewiring your thinking about what’s possible? In this energizing episode, Sean Phelps sits down with “Millennial Millionaire” Todd Baldwin, a self-made real estate investor who went from a small-town troublemaker to a multimillionaire before 30, without family money or big-city connections. Together, they challenge the myths holding young leaders back, revealing the raw work, mindset shifts, and unconventional tactics that actually create real wealth today. You’ll hear the untold struggles behind scaling rental empires, how “thinking bigger” beats raw talent, and why your habits in your 20s make or break your future. Don’t let another year pass stuck in the status quo. Tune in now to discover the brutal truths and proven strategies you actually need to craft a life you love. Miss this, and miss your chance to rewrite your own rules of success. Timestamped Highlights00:51 – The moment a single mom’s struggle sparked an unstoppable drive 03:33 – Getting expelled and outgrowing self-sabotage: a pivotal shift story 06:08 – One real estate client that altered the course of his life forever 09:28 – The unorthodox strategy that snowballed into $40k/month in rent 12:07 – The candid reality of picking the right tenants (and dodging disaster) 14:44 – The fast path to $50k deals: how wholesaling changed everything 18:26 – Why mediocre Airbnbs fail (and the key to crushing hotel competition) 24:07 – Brutally honest: what 100-hour weeks in your 20s actually buy you 28:52 – The “delusional” mindset that made millionaire dreams real About The Guest Todd Baldwin is a self-made real estate investor and content creator, widely recognized as CNBC’s “Millennial Millionaire.” Featured on BiggerPockets and financial media, he built a multi-million dollar portfolio in the country’s most competitive markets—starting with no connections and all grit. 🔗 Instagram Mentioned Resources“Rich Dad Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki“The Intelligent Investor” by Benjamin Graham“The Richest Man in Babylon” by George S. ClasonBiggerPocketsHospitable (property management software)Facebook Groups for tenant sourcingAirbnb 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.

What if the secret to breaking through wasn’t talent but choosing the harder path, even when “good enough” should be enough? In this revealing episode, Matt Stewart sits down with Henry Goodnow to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to stand out as a young leader and entrepreneur right now. They go far beyond résumés, diving into the pressure of building trust in small towns, the brutal truth about indecision, and what happens when you commit to seeing things through—no matter how uncomfortable it gets. If you think you need experience to be ready for anything, this conversation challenges that head-on. Miss this, and you risk sleepwalking through opportunities that will never return. Listen now to uncover rare mindsets and tactical wisdom you won’t find anywhere else. Timestamped Highlights00:31 – The definition of excellence that flips “good enough” on its head 04:54 – Can you really work and play three sports in high school? A myth busted 10:48 – The brutal surprise of starting a business where nobody knows your name 13:42 – What most people get wrong about decisiveness and commitment 19:53 – How choosing harder paths transforms your reputation and outcomes 24:50 – The yellow card wisdom: Make a decision, then make it right 32:46 – When messing up earns respect (if you do this one thing) 41:40 – Why most young people get stuck—and the fastest way out About The Guest Henry Goodnow is a fast-rising entrepreneur, currently leading teams and divisions within the College Works organization. He has managed over 100 people and millions in revenue before age 23, earning a reputation for radical accountability, coach-style leadership, and relentless pursuit of better outcomes. 🔗 LinkedIn Mentioned ResourcesCollege WorksHandshake (college recruiting platform)YPO (Young Presidents’ Organization) 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.

Are you secretly wondering if you have what it takes to survive your first real business challenge... or if you’ll fumble and flame out like everyone fears? This roundtable episode brings together the boldest voices from the College Works Painting executive team as they pull back the curtain on launching businesses in your 20s, conquering the fear of failure, and learning to own your setbacks (and your victories). You’ll hear real stories of panic, poor decisions, painful learning, and turning chaos into confidence from being terrified of sales, to losing all your employees at a backyard BBQ, to thriving despite every reason not to. If you want battle-tested strategies and truth bombs that rise above cliches, tune in now. Step past the self-doubt and excuses. Get the exclusive mindset secrets, hard-won tactics, and support you can’t find anywhere else... especially when the only thing between you and success is the courage to keep moving. Skip it, and risk making the same painful mistakes without the blueprint to win. This episode delivers candid wisdom forged in the fire, only from leaders who’ve walked it for real. Listen now! Timestamped Highlights00:33 – The surprising truth every new founder ignores (but pays for) 06:39 – The one assessment that saves years of painful missteps 09:59 – When fear of failure nearly stopped them cold and what flipped the script 13:55 – The brutal lesson of losing your entire team at once 19:44 – The painful production disaster that became a turning point 26:25 – The costly mistake every first-time entrepreneur makes and how to fix it 34:07 – The strategy that tripled sales and crushed self-doubt 41:32 – The one mindset shift you need to break through your ceiling About The Guest Sean Phelps, President at College Works Painting, is a leadership-minded entrepreneur who once believed business ownership was only possible in mid-life. Instead, he dove in early, learning to blend hard work with effective organization and team leadership. Sean’s transformation came from realizing leadership is less about personal output and more about enabling others to succeed. He stands out for his ability to assess failures honestly, refine systems, and mentor others on their journey to excellence. 🔗 LinkedIn Jack Kratcha, President at College Works Painting, is proof that you don’t need decades of experience to make an impact in business. Jack began his academic journey studying actuarial science and crunching numbers before pivoting into entrepreneurship, drawn by the opportunity to build something real and lasting. He credits his success to “going all in” channeling his energy into his business and leveraging every learning moment. Jack stands out for his resilience, willingness to take risks, and his ability to keep a level head amid setbacks. 🔗 LinkedIn Brett Apel, Vice President at College Works Painting, is an accomplished young leader with a background shaped by hard work, adaptability, and a deep desire to learn from every challenge. Growing up with a tax accountant father, Brett first considered a traditional business path, but quickly discovered his passion for sales, leadership, and entrepreneurship. He’s known for his willingness to ask questions, leverage networks, and pivot quickly transforming early failures into later success. Brett’s journey showcases how embracing discomfort and seeking mentorship can skyrocket growth. 🔗 LinkedIn Tyler McCullough, Vice President at College Works Painting, approaches every venture with analytical rigor and a commitment to tracking results. Originally set on becoming an engineer, he shifted into business and leadership, moving from a science and math background into the world of entrepreneurship. Tyler learned the power of ownership taking responsibility for both failures and successes and developed a knack for rapid self-improvement through self-reflection and data-driven action. He exemplifies how changing directions and mindsets leads to unexpected achievement. 🔗 LinkedIn Kory Finley, Vice President at College Works Painting, grew up immersed in entrepreneurship from running a cattle business with his brothers in Colby, Kansas, to thriving in fast-paced business environments. Kory brings a pragmatic, coachable spirit to every challenge, never shying away from hard lessons or feedback. He’s motivated by self-reliance, a curiosity about what makes businesses work, and a preference for hands-on leadership. Kory’s drive comes from a desire to continuously learn, grow, and elevate those around him. 🔗 LinkedIn Tyler Schuster, Vice President at College Works Painting, is a former collegiate quarterback who translated the discipline and teamwork of college football into entrepreneurial leadership. With a degree in business administration and a focus on sales and management, Tyler’s journey reflects adaptability and self-belief. Despite uncertainty about his long-term goals at first, he soon discovered a love for real estate development and business-building. Tyler’s story illustrates the importance of persistence, self-confidence, and embracing discomfort to fuel a career of impact. 🔗 LinkedIn Mentioned ResourcesUniversity of Wisconsin-MadisonGrand Valley State UniversityUniversity of Sioux FallsStrengthsFinderDISC personality assessmentThomas Edison (as a frame for failing forward) 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.

Are you ready for a world where your knowledge job could disappear overnight? In this explosive conversation, Matt Stewart and Sean Phelps dive in with Jerome Stewart and Darius Mirshahzadeh to uncover the pace, risks, and surprising opportunities behind the AI upheaval transforming every industry. These world-recognized AI experts cut through the hype to reveal who wins, who gets left behind, and the essential skillsets you need right now. This episode delivers the raw, practical playbook for adapting and thriving in the new AI-first era. Miss this, and you risk getting locked out of tomorrow’s job market or watching your business fade away. Catch it now for exclusive strategies you won’t hear anywhere else, and get the jump on everyone still waiting for things to settle. Timestamped Highlights00:48 – Why 2026 is a shock year for AI advances and productivity 04:04 – The jaw-dropping moment AI replaced work in seconds 06:08 – Brutal reality: Should most knowledge work even be done by humans? 09:45 – Handshake skills and the surprising future of sales in an AI world 12:19 – The new knowledge work that 20-somethings must master to stand out 14:06 – How hiring has flipped: Entry-level jobs and unemployment decoded 18:13 – Why anyone can become an AI builder in just months 27:12 – Physical jobs, digital robots, and training tomorrow’s workforce 45:25 – The Internet moment: Why even a small AI adoption triggers wipeout About The Guest Jerome Stewart is a recognized expert in artificial intelligence and business process optimization, known for his hands-on approach to leveraging AI for 2x and even 3x productivity gains. As a leader with the White Feathers Group, Jerome Stewart dives deep into marketing, workflow automation, and the transformative power of large language models like Claude. He has a knack for demystifying emerging technology, training teams, and encouraging young professionals to lean into AI-driven change. Jerome Stewart also champions the importance of human connection, emphasizing skills like discernment and relationship-building that AI can’t replace. 🔗 LinkedIn | Website Darius Mirshahzadeh is a forward-thinking entrepreneur and business leader. He is the chairman of AI It and the host of The Greatness Machine podcast. Featured by Fortune magazine as an AI expert, he specializes in helping organizations automate knowledge work and redefine their tech stacks using AI-first strategies. He is known for his candid assessments of the job market, his ability to break down complex trends, and his passion for building teams skilled in automation platforms and agent-building. With a focus on practical implementation, Darius Mirshahzadeh is a leading voice at the intersection of leadership, automation, and future-of-work innovation. 🔗 LinkedIn | Podcast Mentioned ResourcesClaude (AI platform)ChatGPTGeminiPerplexityN8NMakeOpenClawCore Value Equation BookYouTube (for AI tutorials and deep dives) 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.

Have you ever wondered what truly separates elite performers from everyone else, not just in business, but in life? In this emotionally charged episode, guest host Sean Phelps sits down with Stephen Bauer, a nationally recognized wealth advisor who climbed from uncertain college beginnings to managing director and Forbes Next Gen honoree. Together, they explore the real drivers of sustained excellence from finding your “why” to leading through adversity and building teams that win long after you’ve left the spotlight. If you settle for surface-level career advice, you’ll miss what makes top financial leaders tick, especially the strategies most never teach. Listen now for an insider’s look at the habits, choices, and mindset shifts that could change your approach to success, before someone else takes your edge. Timestamped Highlights02:06 – The brutally honest reason “effort” beats talent every time 07:49 – Why your success will mirror your inner circle 13:06 – The true story behind Stephen’s pivot from engineering to finance 17:14 – How one relationship shortcut Stephen’s entire career trajectory 23:27 – The painful loss that fueled a new level of ambition 27:32 – Breaking down the “niche advantage” to dominate any market 32:27 – The bold career risk that turned into an unfair advantage 44:35 – The overlooked lesson top leaders wish they learned sooner About The Guest Stephen Bauer is Managing Director at United Capital Financial Advisors, multiple-year Forbes Next Gen Wealth Advisor, and widely recognized as one of America’s leading millennial financial advisors. He brings decades of proven results, including 11 Five Star Professional awards and national acclaim for his expertise in helping clients achieve real-world peace of mind through values-driven financial planning. 🔗 LinkedIn | Website Mentioned ResourcesForbes Next Gen Wealth AdvisorsSimon SinekMichael KitcesZig ZiglarCollege Works Painting 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.

Are you stuck at the edge of your potential, wondering how to leap ahead of the crowd? In this raw conversation, Matt Stewart pulls back the curtain with Carter Zirbes, an industrial engineering standout and relentless reinventer who has raised $40,000 for cancer research, run million-dollar teams, and mastered the art of pivoting through setbacks. Today’s episode is about more than career trajectories. It’s about the inner battles, owning brutal mistakes, finding mentors when none exist, and refusing to coast when you could climb. Discover the “embrace the suck” mindset, the power of extreme ownership, and the real reason successful people never truly feel satisfied. If you want to avoid mediocrity and play at the highest level, you cannot afford to miss this exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at what separates the excellent from everyone else. Listen now, before the next opportunity passes you by, or you convince yourself that good enough is really enough. Timestamped Highlights00:25 – The shocking truth about engineering internships most students ignore 02:30 – Why excellence is a moving target and why that actually matters 08:11 – Raising $40,000 for cancer as a teen: The hustle behind the headlines 15:28 – What to do when you have no mentors or support system 19:07 – How a personality test rewrote Carter’s entire career trajectory 26:23 – The “embrace the suck” principle that catapults personal growth 31:06 – The moment extreme ownership flipped customer disaster into loyalty 36:43 – Tradeoffs, FOMO, and the real story on sacrifice versus balance About The Guest Carter Zirbes is a senior industrial engineering student at Iowa State University and a standout leader with CollegeWorks, where he’s managed million-dollar teams and raised tens of thousands for cancer research. Known for his rare blend of technical ability and people skills, Carter brings proven success in both sales and engineering leadership roles. 🔗 LinkedIn Mentioned ResourcesMiracles of Mitch FoundationDISC AssessmentIowa State UniversityUniversity of MinnesotaJets Pizza 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.

What if your messy, challenging upbringing could become your greatest competitive advantage? If you’re feeling stuck, alone, or unsure how to turn adversity into growth, you’re exactly who this episode is for. On this electric episode of Edge of Excellence, Matt Stewart welcomes Andre Julian, world champion martial artist, wealth management leader, and TEDx speaker, to share the raw real-life story behind his rise from hardship to industry giant. You’ll get an inside look at how resilience, relentless curiosity, and building the right relationships transform impossible odds into extraordinary opportunity. This episode is your backstage pass to proven, practical mindset shifts and micro habits you won’t find anywhere else. Listen now to leap past self-doubt, learn the secrets that separate winners from worriers, and start building the life and legacy you deserve today. Timestamped Highlights00:59 – The brutal reality of finding strength in broken places 03:08 – The unnoticed superpower hidden in childhood adversity 10:00 – Why connecting the dots works only in reverse 13:01 – The secret role of substitute mentors (and how to find them) 20:04 – The lesson every ambitious student must learn about sports and approval 27:06 – What sales rejection really teaches about grit and career clarity 34:58 – Why empathy is the number one financial skill (and how to build it) 43:43 – How to stay rational when the world (and markets) lose their mind About The Guest Andre Julian is a world champion martial artist, international wealth management leader, and acclaimed TEDx speaker. Rising from a challenging, chaotic childhood to helm a respected financial firm, Andre’s journey includes degrees from UC Irvine and Yale, TV appearances, and the bestselling book “Streaking to Win.” He’s known for blending sharp financial acumen with uncommon empathy and a relentless drive to help others build lasting excellence. 🔗 Book | Website Mentioned ResourcesTEDx TalksYale School of ManagementUC IrvineSteve Jobs Stanford Commencement AddressDr. Dorothy (College Works resource)Financial TimesWall Street Journal 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.

What if everything you believe about “success” in medicine, ambition, or life is only half the story? Join host Sean Phelps for a riveting, emotionally charged conversation with Dao Ho, a Yale-trained, New York-based PA who's redefining what it means to pursue excellence at the highest level and to come out stronger on the other side. In this candid episode, Dao Ho reveals how she battled failure, faced down imposter syndrome, and fell in love with medicine in the most unexpected places. She opens up about her journey from volunteer gigs to saving lives at one of the world’s premier cancer centers, with detours through business, heartbreak, and joy. If you want to learn the proven systems, unique mindsets, and day-to-day realities that power world-class leaders, don’t skip this listen. Avoid years of wasted effort, uncover the resilient real-life blueprint that never gets shared, and claim the insights that can change your path today, not someday. This is your ticket to the inside story. Timestamped Highlights00:58 – The unexpected detours that shaped her medical path 02:58 – The class project that changed her life’s mission 05:29 – Why resilience and painful rejection fuel real growth 08:29 – The time management system that let her work, volunteer, and live at full speed 11:47 – The brutal realities and breakthrough of Ivy League admissions 14:28 – How “failing often” secretly led to big wins 21:18 – The accidental lesson that taught her how to really save lives 33:33 – Why gratitude and perspective can change your entire trajectory About The Guest Dao Ho is a Physician Assistant specializing in bone marrow transplant and cell therapy at one of New York City’s world-leading cancer centers. A Yale School of Medicine graduate and first-generation Vietnamese American, she blends advanced medical knowledge with heartfelt patient care, earning her reputation through resilience, empathy, and life-saving results. 🔗 LinkedIn Mentioned ResourcesYale School of Medicine (Physician Assistant Program)Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer CenterHope LodgeRonald McDonald HouseGoogle CalendarCrossFitEMT Certification 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.

What if the decision you are avoiding right now is the exact one that changes everything? In this special crossover episode between the Edge of Excellence and The Entrepreneurial CEO, Matt Stewart sits down with Nicole McMackin and Michael Caito for a candid, funny, and surprisingly deep conversation about the handful of choices that shaped their careers, relationships, and lives. From walking away from law school to moving across the country with no guarantees, they unpack what bold decisions really feel like in the moment, and why waiting for certainty is usually the fastest way to stay stuck. This episode dives into confidence, readiness, self-advocacy, risk, and the hidden power of choosing movement over perfection. Listen now if you are stuck in indecision, second-guessing your next move, or waiting to feel “ready.” This episode gives you rare, honest perspective from three leaders who know exactly what happens when you bet on yourself, and what it costs when you do not. Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – Total honesty: what happens when you risk it all (and how Nicole frames life-changing decisions)[00:04] Nicole reveals the unexpected fork in the road that pulled her away from law school and into entrepreneurship.[00:08] Michael shares the cross-country move that changed his future, and why sometimes a physical move becomes a personal breakthrough.[00:13] The group tackles the decision that can elevate your life or quietly destroy it, choosing the right partner.[00:21] Nicole breaks down why so many talented professionals stay stuck, not because they lack skill, but because they never advocate for themselves.[00:27] Confidence versus competence, the honest truth about taking roles before you feel ready.[00:31] What big decisions actually feel like in real time, relief, fear, excitement, and the pressure to move before certainty arrives.[00:36] Each guest shares their personal framework for making tough calls when the stakes are high. About The Guest Nicole McMackin is President of Irvine Technology Corporation and the host of Elevate Your Career. She is known for combining executive leadership, career advocacy, and practical coaching, especially for women navigating growth in technology and leadership. 🔗 LinkedIn | Website Michael Caito is CEO of Management Action Programs, Inc. (MAP) and former co-founder of Restaurants on the Run, one of the early restaurant delivery businesses later sold to Grubhub. He is known for his no-nonsense approach to accountability, leadership, and scaling businesses with discipline. 🔗 LinkedIn | Website Mentioned ResourcesChoose Your Own Adventure booksYPO (Young Presidents’ Organization)EO (Entrepreneurs’ Organization)Fortaleza (Las Abuelos) TequilaBig Canyon Country ClubUCLA Women In Leadership ProgramLaura SchwabGreg HughesCollegeWorks PaintingState StreetEmerging Leaders program 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.

Ever wonder why your career path still feels foggy, no matter how hard you grind? What if clarity, not hustle, is the game-changer you’re missing? On this electrifying episode of Edge of Excellence, Matt Stewart sits down with David Streitfeld, seasoned CMO, startup veteran, and master of launching companies into new markets. Together, they dive into the surprising ways clarity, earned through action rather than waiting, unlocks authentic passion, enduring momentum, and outrageous results. From weathering massive recessions to reinventing business models, you’ll learn why excellence is less about burning out and more about lining up your “why.” Expect unfiltered stories about dropping majors that don’t fit, launching environmental ventures, and the ultimate risk of leaping from comfort into growth. Tune in now to sidestep the slow, painful grind of indecision, get actionable tools to define your vision, and uncover insider wisdom you won’t hear anywhere else. The next chapter of your leadership journey demands it. Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – The weird yellow card: When your guest is “too good-looking” and what that has to do with excellence [01:25] – Shocking truth: Clarity trumps grinding—here’s why your 20s are the proving ground [03:30] – The recession echo… then and now—what never changes (and what you must do differently) [07:16] – Violin prodigy to “middle of the road”: The surprising lessons of not being the best [11:56] – The academic bait-and-switch: Why business and music majors don’t always spark passion [19:15] – The real reason College Works changes lives (hint: It isn’t the paycheck—or isn’t just the paycheck) [31:15] – Facing fear, leaving comfort: The counterintuitive risks that pay off in clarity and career leaps [36:40] – What a modern CMO really does—and why storytelling still wins in the age of AI About The Guest David Streitfeld is a trailblazer fractional Chief Marketing Officer and co-founder of FullScope Agency, renowned for guiding startups and social impact brands through strategic transformation and authentic storytelling. With a track record spanning Solar City, Renew Financial, and multiple venture-backed firms, he’s spent 15+ years helping businesses define their voice, orchestrate explosive growth, and align mission with market impact. 🔗 LinkedIn | Website Mentioned ResourcesSolar CityRenew FinancialUniversity High School (Tucson, AZ)University of ArizonaGreenbelt Conference (sustainability industry event)SalesforceDynatraceMicrosoft 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.