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 ExcellenceChris 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 PlanChris 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 LeadersCody Voelker – Real estate entrepreneur focused on long-term thinking, goal alignment, and everyday excellence. | Episode 57: Cody Voelker | Finding Success in Real Estate InvestingJerome Stewart – International professional and Peace Corps veteran, known for bold choices and embracing diverse life paths. | Episode 26: Jerome Stewart | There Is More Than One Path To ExcellenceKeaton Petite – Higher education administrator who champions reflection, mental clarity, and redefining success. | Episode 157: Keaton Petite | From Chaos to Clarity: Mastering Productivity in a Digital WorldKyle Emerick – Former Marine and business leader known for his “5 F’s” framework and disciplined life prioritization. | Episode 11: Kyle Emerick | What Is The 5 F’s Life And How You Can Use It TodayImportant 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 YouTubeThe Edge of Excellence is an original podcast hosted by Matthew Stewart. Brought to you by College Works. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.