Seeking Excellence with Nathan Crankfield

2025 was one of the most intense years of my life.In this episode of Seeking Excellence, I share 12 hard-earned lessons from 2025 that helped me grow as a husband, father, leader, and professional. From grief and major life changes to career growth, marriage counseling, discipline, fitness, faith, money, and parenting, these lessons are practical, honest, and tested in real life.If you’re navigating change, feeling stretched thin, or trying to avoid drifting in your personal life, marriage, career, or faith, this episode is for you.In this video, I cover:How to handle major life transitions without losing yourselfWhy routines matter most during chaosThe truth about marriage counseling and accountabilityScreen addiction, discipline, and focusFitness, prayer, and habits that fuel excellenceMoney, contentment, and lifestyle decisionsParenting, discipline, and raising strong kidsLeadership lessons from work, coaching, and speakingWhether you’re preparing for 2026 or just trying to live with more intention, these lessons will help you build a life of personal excellence.Subscribe for weekly content on leadership, faith, discipline, personal growth, marriage, fatherhood, and living an excellent life.Join the SE Community on Locals here!! https://seekingexcellence.locals.com/

Fill out the SE feedback form to help guide content planning in 2026: https://forms.gle/kgcFYL9W3HU6dRCT8Join us on Locals so you don't miss weekly articles, live streams, and more! https://seekingexcellence.locals.com/landing/videoThank you to our supporters! We greatly appreciate your encouragement and belief in our mission. Let's make 2026 our best year yet!

Without vision, the people will perish. If you don't take initiative and responsibility for your life and for your family, who will? In this video, I walkthrough a great strategy for annual family planning in a way that will impress your wife and bring her clarity, peace, and confidence going into the rest of 2026. For access to the resources mentioned in this video, join our Locals community for free at https://seekingexcellence.locals.com/landing/video

Want to make 2026 an excellent year? Join the SE community on Locals so you don't miss weekly articles, livestreams, and newsletters! Join us here: https://seekingexcellence.locals.com/landing/video You can join as a paid supporter for 40% off until 12/31! Nathan Crankfield discusses why New Year's resolutions often fail and offers practical tips for setting and achieving goals in 2026. He emphasizes the importance of accountability, creating action goals, and setting checkpoints throughout the year. Nathan also introduces his coaching program, the Excellent Life program, which helps individuals set and achieve goals across six pillars of excellence: mind, professional life, finances, relationships, spiritual life, and physical health.To apply for the Excellent Life Program, visit our website here: https://www.seekingexcellence.us/coaching

SummaryIn this conversation, Nathan Crankfield shares valuable insights on navigating the complexities of family dynamics during the holiday season. He emphasizes the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, and managing expectations to maintain peace and joy. Crankfield encourages listeners to view challenging family interactions as opportunities for personal growth and sanctification, while also advocating for discernment in conversations to foster healthier relationships.Chapters00:00 Navigating Holiday Stress02:15 Prioritizing Family Values04:50 Managing Expectations07:47 View It As Sanctification10:46 The Importance of Self-Care13:31 Quality vs. Quantity in RelationshipsThanks for watching, and Merry Christmas! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast and connect with us on social media.LinkedIn: @seeking-excellenceTikTok: @nathancrankfieldYoutube: @seekingexcellence_Instagram: @seekingexcellence_Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seeking-excellence-with-nathan-crankfield/id1528863617Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3E5Y4v5btc2OGYuoWVbRGM?si=832c88f869484f09&nd=1&dlsi=01e09bb1226e4bacFind exclusive content on Locals as a paid or unpaid supporter:https://seekingexcellence.locals.com/.

SummaryIn this conversation, Nathan Crankfield discusses the importance of budgeting during the holiday season, offering practical tips to manage expenses and avoid financial stress. He emphasizes the need for intentionality in spending, the impact of social pressure, and the significance of staying aligned with one's financial goals. The discussion also touches on the balance between generosity and financial responsibility, encouraging listeners to focus on meaningful connections rather than consumerism.Chapters00:00 Introduction & Updates04:00 Why Holiday Spending Gets Out of Control08:00 How to Build a Simple, Stress-Free Christmas Budget12:00 Avoid the Post-Holiday Debt Trap16:00 Give With Purpose18:05 Final ThoughtsIf you enjoyed this content, please follow this podcast and find us on your socials! LinkedIn: @seeking-excellenceTikTok: @nathancrankfieldYoutube: @seekingexcellence_Instagram: @seekingexcellence_Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seeking-excellence-with-nathan-crankfield/id1528863617Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3E5Y4v5btc2OGYuoWVbRGM?si=832c88f869484f09&nd=1&dlsi=01e09bb1226e4bacFind exclusive content on Locals as a paid or unpaid supporter:https://seekingexcellence.locals.com/.

SummaryIn this recording of the final parish mission talk, Nathan Crankfield explores the concept of hope as a theological virtue, emphasizing the importance of trust in God and reliance on the Holy Spirit. He shares personal anecdotes about overcoming fear, the significance of failure, and the role of suffering in deepening faith. Crankfield highlights the necessity of participating in the life of the Church, including the sacraments and prayer, as essential components of spiritual growth. He concludes by encouraging listeners to embrace hope and actively engage in their faith community.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Hope and Its Importance04:59 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Faith08:32 The Role of Suffering in Building True Hope11:43 Relying on the Holy Spirit for Strength18:39 The Journey of Faith: Trusting God's Plan22:20 The Four Pillars of the Catechism and Their Relevance28:19 The Importance of Prayer in Spiritual Growth33:43 Conclusion: Embracing Hope and Making a DifferenceJoin Pray25 on Hallow ⁠⁠here!⁠⁠If you enjoyed this content, please follow this podcast and find us on your socials! LinkedIn: @seeking-excellenceTikTok: @nathancrankfieldYoutube: @seekingexcellence_Instagram: @seekingexcellence_Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seeking-excellence-with-nathan-crankfield/id1528863617Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3E5Y4v5btc2OGYuoWVbRGM?si=832c88f869484f09&nd=1&dlsi=01e09bb1226e4bacFind exclusive content on Locals as a paid or unpaid supporter:https://seekingexcellence.locals.com/.

SummaryIn this conversation, Nathan Crankfield emphasizes the significance of the Advent season as a time for spiritual preparation and reflection. He discusses the importance of evaluating who we listen to and how that influences our spiritual growth. Crankfield encourages listeners to prepare for the new year by focusing on their spiritual lives, maximizing their time during Advent, and embracing silence amidst distractions. He challenges listeners to make Advent meaningful and to set goals that align with their faith and personal growth.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Advent and Its Importance03:50 Living with Urgency: Spiritual Preparation06:34 We Need Silence09:43 Maximizing Time for Spiritual Growth12:13 Make Advent Great Again15:28 Conclusion and Call to ActionFind Waiting Well with Father Mike Schmitz here!Join Pray25 on Hallow here!If you enjoyed this content, please follow this podcast and find us on your socials! LinkedIn: @seeking-excellenceTikTok: @nathancrankfieldYoutube: @seekingexcellence_Instagram: @seekingexcellence_Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seeking-excellence-with-nathan-crankfield/id1528863617Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3E5Y4v5btc2OGYuoWVbRGM?si=832c88f869484f09&nd=1&dlsi=01e09bb1226e4bacFind exclusive content on Locals as a paid or unpaid supporter: https://seekingexcellence.locals.com/.

It's the most wonderful time of the year - which means the Santa debate is BACK! Is Santa innocent fun or is it based on immoral lies deceiving children? Watch this video for some sane takes on the Santa debate!

SummaryIn this recording of the second parish mission talk, Nathan Crankfield explores the themes of hope, faith, and personal growth through his own experiences and reflections. He emphasizes the importance of community engagement, the definition of hope, and how it can be a choice, especially in family life. Through personal stories and biblical references, he illustrates the challenges of life, the role of suffering in building endurance, and the necessity of trusting God during difficult times. The discussion culminates in a call to action for parents and individuals to share their faith and hope with others, particularly the younger generation.Chapters00:00 The Gift of Hope05:00 Trusting Jesus in Family Life10:00 Navigating Suffering and Loss15:00 Building Endurance Through Trials20:00 Choosing Hope Daily25:00 Overcoming Discouragement30:00 Hope in Action35:00 Final Reflections & ClosingJoin Pray25 on Hallow ⁠here!⁠If you enjoyed this content, please follow this podcast and find us on your socials! LinkedIn: @seeking-excellenceTikTok: @nathancrankfieldYoutube: @seekingexcellence_Instagram: @seekingexcellence_Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seeking-excellence-with-nathan-crankfield/id1528863617Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3E5Y4v5btc2OGYuoWVbRGM?si=832c88f869484f09&nd=1&dlsi=01e09bb1226e4bacFind exclusive content on Locals as a paid or unpaid supporter:https://seekingexcellence.locals.com/.

Join the SE Supporters for just $60 for an annual subscription. You will get: -A free book and t-shirt! -Weekly livestream, article, and newsletter -Daily reflections and resources to help you on your path to personal greatness Use promo code ADVENT25 for 40% off the annual subscriptionTALK ABOUT CONTROVERSY This episode has been a long time coming - the battle between Candace and TPUSA has been spiraling out of control. Bridget joins me to share her thoughts on the situation that is rapidly dividing the Conservative movement.

SummaryIn this episode, Nathan Crankfield and Rigel Raju discuss the widening political gap between young men and women, exploring the factors contributing to this divide. They delve into the impact of family dynamics, the role of virtue in political discourse, and the influence of online masculinity. The conversation also touches on the challenges of dating in today's world and the importance of the church in guiding young men and women towards fulfilling relationships and lives rooted in faith.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates04:40 The Widening Political Gap11:41 Navigating Relationships in a Divided Society14:50 The Role of Virtue in Political Discourse19:40 The Impact of Family Dynamics on Gender Roles24:33 Masculinity in Modern Society31:44 The Balance of Strength and Compassion35:55 Navigating Modern Masculinity41:09 The Role of the Church in Guiding Young Men47:00 The Divide Between Men and Women in Faith52:56 Finding Hope in Relationships01:01:00 The Importance of Faith in MarriageLink to Coffee, Catechesis, & Commerce's website:https://www.cofcomcat.com/aboutIf you enjoyed this content, please follow this podcast and find us on your socials! LinkedIn: @seeking-excellenceTikTok: @nathancrankfieldYoutube: @seekingexcellence_Instagram: @seekingexcellence_Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seeking-excellence-with-nathan-crankfield/id1528863617Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3E5Y4v5btc2OGYuoWVbRGM?si=832c88f869484f09&nd=1&dlsi=01e09bb1226e4bacFind exclusive content on Locals as a paid or unpaid supporter: https://seekingexcellence.locals.com/.

SummaryIn this episode of the Seeking Excellence Podcast, Nathan Crankfield explores the theological virtue of hope, breaking it down into its essential components. He discusses the importance of hope in our lives, the contrast between hope and despair, and how personal experiences shape our understanding of hope. Nathan emphasizes that hope is a gift from God that requires acceptance and a desire for holiness. He shares his personal journey of faith, the role of community in fostering hope, and the necessity of prayer in sustaining it throughout life's challenges.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Parish Mission 06:31 Exploring the Theme of Hope14:23 Understanding Despair & Discouragement22:23 Personal Testimony: From Broken to Hopeful30:32 The Gift of Hope & Why It Matters...Join Pray25 on Hallow here!If you enjoyed this content, please follow this podcast and find us on your socials! LinkedIn: @seeking-excellenceTikTok: @nathancrankfieldYoutube: @seekingexcellence_Instagram: @seekingexcellence_Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seeking-excellence-with-nathan-crankfield/id1528863617Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3E5Y4v5btc2OGYuoWVbRGM?si=832c88f869484f09&nd=1&dlsi=01e09bb1226e4bacFind exclusive content on Locals as a paid or unpaid supporter:https://seekingexcellence.locals.com/.

SummaryIn this conversation, Nathan Crankfield explores the themes of masculinity, femininity, and the societal implications of the growing feminization in various sectors. He discusses the debate on virtue between men and women, the emotional versus logical arguments in societal discourse, and the impact of these dynamics on leadership and the church. Crankfield emphasizes the need for balance and collaboration between genders to address the challenges faced in contemporary society.Chapters00:00 Are Women Superior To Men?02:32 What Is The Great Feminization?04:56 Exploring Feminization in Society08:26 The Impact of Feminization on Institutions12:00 Emotional Appeals Are Not Strong Arguments16:00 Gender and Virtues20:00 Why This Isn’t Misogyny25:20 Is There A Solution?29:24 Final ThoughtsArticle Discussed in Episode https://www.compactmag.com/article/the-great-feminization/If you enjoyed this content, please follow this podcast and find us on your socials! LinkedIn: @seeking-excellenceTikTok: @nathancrankfieldYoutube: @seekingexcellence_Instagram: @seekingexcellence_Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seeking-excellence-with-nathan-crankfield/id1528863617Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3E5Y4v5btc2OGYuoWVbRGM?si=832c88f869484f09&nd=1&dlsi=01e09bb1226e4bacFind exclusive content on Locals as a paid or unpaid supporter: https://seekingexcellence.locals.com/.

SummaryIn this conversation, Nathan Crankfield discusses his return to the Locals community, sharing plans to revive engagement and emphasize the importance of giving within Christianity. He reflects on personal experiences, including family changes and community building, while addressing the challenges of generosity in modern life. The discussion also touches on financial management tools and the precepts of the Catholic Church, encouraging listeners to consider their own giving practices and the transformative power of generosity.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:32 The Importance of Giving in Christianity04:16 Personal Life Updates and Family Journey09:33 Understanding the Call to Give12:35 The Precepts of the Catholic Church14:59 Statistics on Catholic Giving20:56 The Role of Generosity in Personal Growth25:45 How Quickly Costs Add Up31:20 Final ThoughtsIf you enjoyed this content, please follow this podcast and find us on your socials! LinkedIn: @seeking-excellenceTikTok: @nathancrankfieldYoutube: @seekingexcellence_Instagram: @seekingexcellence_Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seeking-excellence-with-nathan-crankfield/id1528863617Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3E5Y4v5btc2OGYuoWVbRGM?si=832c88f869484f09&nd=1&dlsi=01e09bb1226e4bacFind exclusive content on Locals as a paid or unpaid supporter:https://seekingexcellence.locals.com/.

SummaryIn this conversation, Nathan Crankfield shares his personal journey and the transformative power of Catholic education. He emphasizes the importance of prayer in leadership, the need for gratitude, and the challenges faced in the mission of education. Crankfield encourages educators to find joy in their work, embrace the pressures of leadership as a privilege, and recognize their role as shepherds guiding their students. Through his experiences, he highlights the significance of community, faith, and the impact of a strong prayer life on mental health and leadership effectiveness.Chapters00:00 Introduction03:56 My Testimony08:39 Why Every Great Leader Starts with Prayer15:00 How Prayer Impacts Mental Health18:05 Lessons in Virtue from Ranger School24:50 Seeing Revival and Learning to Welcome Hardship31:00 Final TakeawaysIf you enjoyed this content, please follow this podcast and find us on your socials! LinkedIn: @seeking-excellenceTikTok: @nathancrankfieldYoutube: @seekingexcellence_Instagram: @seekingexcellence_Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seeking-excellence-with-nathan-crankfield/id1528863617

Learn more about Paul’s work here: https://catholicsports.netSummaryIn this conversation, Nathan Crankfield speaks with Paul Spotts, founder and president of Catholic Sports, about the importance of community in the lives of young adults, particularly within the Catholic faith. They discuss the challenges young adults face in finding belonging and purpose, the evolution of Catholic Sports as a ministry, and the need for churches to adapt to the changing landscape of young adult life. Paul shares insights on dating, relationships, and the structure of Catholic Sports, emphasizing the importance of inviting others into community activities. The conversation concludes with encouragement for young adults to take small commitments in their faith and relationships.Chapters00:00 Introduction04:14 Why So Many Young Adults Are Leaving the Church10:30 Signs of Revival Within the Church17:12 What Really Counts as a “Young Adult”?24:07 The Rise of Roaming (or Rootless) Catholics33:13 The Root Cause of the Loneliness Epidemic38:00 Why We All Need Encouragement to Belong42:25 How Catholic Sports Are Structured52:20 Why Missionaries Need Community Too58:25 Real Dating Advice for Young Adults1:01:30 Where to Find Catholic Sports Near You1:03:03 OutroIf you enjoyed this content, please follow this podcast and find us on your socials! LinkedIn: @seeking-excellenceTikTok: @nathancrankfieldYoutube: @seekingexcellence_Instagram: @seekingexcellence_Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seeking-excellence-with-nathan-crankfield/id1528863617Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3E5Y4v5btc2OGYuoWVbRGM?si=832c88f869484f09&nd=1&dlsi=01e09bb1226e4bacFind exclusive content on Locals as a paid or unpaid supporter:https://seekingexcellence.locals.com/.

SummaryIn this Seeking Excellence episode, Nathan Crankfield explores the complexities of social safety nets, particularly focusing on the principles of subsidiarity and personal responsibility. He discusses the debate surrounding welfare programs like SNAP and EBT, emphasizing the need for a philosophical understanding of societal structures. The conversation also touches on the implications of JD Vance's views on the order of love and the ethical considerations of welfare distribution.Chapters00:00 Introduction & Understanding Subsidiarity02:17 The Debate on Social Safety Nets07:04 Philosophy and Theology in Social Issues11:00 Where Our Tax Dollars Are Going15:00 Liberal Christians on The Order of Love20:00 Why Do We Keep Appeasing Liberal Boomer Catholics?25:00 The Problem With SNAP and EBT30:46 How It Relates to the ShutdownIf you enjoyed this content, please follow this podcast and find us on your socials! LinkedIn: @seeking-excellenceTikTok: @nathancrankfieldYoutube: @seekingexcellence_Instagram: @seekingexcellence_Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seeking-excellence-with-nathan-crankfield/id1528863617Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3E5Y4v5btc2OGYuoWVbRGM?si=832c88f869484f09&nd=1&dlsi=01e09bb1226e4bacFind exclusive content on Locals as a paid or unpaid supporter:https://seekingexcellence.locals.com/.

In this conversation, Nathan Crankfield discusses the financial mindset and practical strategies for making wise financial decisions, particularly in the context of buying a home and a car. He emphasizes the importance of budgeting, living below one's means, and the balance between conservative and aggressive financial strategies. The conversation also touches on the significance of generosity and long-term planning, encouraging listeners to choose hope and optimism in their financial journeys.Chapters00:00 Introduction04:43 Why Budgeting Matters08:40 Navigating Financial Extremes11:22 Should We Take Ramsey's Advice?15:21 Count The Costs20:55 Do I Really Need The Nicest Car?24:20 Balancing Family Needs and Tithing29:03 Living On Base Salary Alone 33:51 Seeking Financial ExcellenceIf you enjoyed this content, please follow this podcast and find us on your socials! LinkedIn: @seeking-excellenceTikTok: @nathancrankfieldYoutube: @seekingexcellence_Instagram: @seekingexcellence_Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seeking-excellence-with-nathan-crankfield/id1528863617Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3E5Y4v5btc2OGYuoWVbRGM?si=832c88f869484f09&nd=1&dlsi=01e09bb1226e4bacFind exclusive content on Locals as a paid or unpaid supporter: https://seekingexcellence.locals.com/.

In this conversation, Nathan Crankfield discusses the value and impact of stay-at-home parenting, challenging common perceptions and statistics surrounding the economic worth of stay-at-home parents. He emphasizes the importance of parental presence in child development, the hidden benefits of leisure time for families, and the true worth of motherhood beyond financial metrics. Crankfield encourages families to make informed decisions based on their unique circumstances rather than societal pressures or inflated statistics.Nathan's Lila Rose reaction video: https://youtu.be/J7viY4R35AY?si=t07acAlL_23y8m7aChapters00:00Introduction03:41My Initial Response to the Video06:20Nobody Really Outsources These Things09:20Let's Flip This Issue on its Head12:10Parent's Aren't Interchangeable16:10We Agree, Motherhood is Good19:55The Biggest Benefit of Staying Home23:26Motherhood is a Beautiful Vocation27:10What Scripture Says About The Ideal WomanIf you enjoyed this content, please like this video, subscribe to our channel, and follow us on your socials! LinkedIn: @seeking-excellenceTikTok: @nathancrankfieldYoutube: @seekingexcellence_Instagram: @seekingexcellence_Find exclusive content on Locals as a paid or unpaid supporter:https://seekingexcellence.locals.com/.