Growth Over Goals

In this episode of Growth Over Goals, Jordan Montgomery sits down with bestselling author, educator, and nationally sought-after speaker Weston Kieschnick to unpack what truly separates high performers from underachievers — and why most people never see it happening.Weston shares the journey from classroom teacher to influential leadership voice, revealing how the principles that shape great educators also apply to parents, leaders, and professionals across every industry. The conversation dives deep into The Hidden Work — the unseen habits, mindsets, and choices that determine long-term success.Throughout the episode, Weston and Jordan explore:Why education works best when parents and schools operate as true partnersThe four behaviors underperformers default to — and what top performers choose insteadHow ownership, truth, solutions, and grit drive sustainable excellenceWhy attention, connection, and relationships are at the core of leadershipThe growing crisis of isolation, exhaustion, and distraction in modern lifeA powerful reminder that your want can never exceed your workThis episode is a compelling reminder that growth doesn’t happen by accident — it happens through intentional, disciplined effort when no one is watching.🎧 Listen in and ask yourself: What hidden work am I willing to commit to today?

In this episode of Growth Over Goals, Jordan Montgomery sits down with Brandon and Jenni Scherff for a deeply honest conversation about leadership where it matters most — at home. From navigating life in the NFL to raising a blended family rooted in faith, Brandon and Jenny share the rhythms, boundaries, and intentional decisions that have shaped their marriage, parenting, and calling.This conversation explores what it truly means to slow down, steward success, and build margin in a world that constantly demands more. Brandon and Jenni open up about adoption, infertility, transition, and why not every good opportunity is worth saying yes to. Together, they unpack practical family rhythms like “mellow yellow weekends,” identity-driven parenting, and the importance of protecting the home front through every season of life.Whether you’re leading a team, a business, or a family, this episode is a powerful reminder that growth doesn’t start with achievement — it starts with alignment.In this episode, you’ll hear about:Why identity always precedes behaviorLeading with intention during seasons of transitionCreating margin, boundaries, and sustainable family rhythmsFaith-driven parenting and marriage leadershipWhy not every opportunity is your assignmentSlowing down to steward what matters most🎧 Subscribe to Growth Over Goals for weekly conversations on leadership, faith, and living with purpose.

In this profound episode of Growth Over Goals, Jordan Montgomery sits down with leadership expert, author, and mentor Mac Lake, whose life has been marked by humility, stewardship, and an unwavering commitment to leading like Jesus. This deeply personal conversation explores the power of parenting with intentionality, the balance of influence and identity, and why true leadership is measured not just in our presence—but in what remains when we're gone. Mac reflects on raising his children, including award-winning artist Brandon Lake, and shares how surrender, boundaries, and daily example shape generational leadership. He also breaks down the difference between living like Jesus and leading like Jesus, challenging leaders in both ministry and the marketplace to use their influence with wisdom, courage, and clarity of purpose. Whether you're guiding a team, stewarding a family, or growing your own leadership capacity, this episode is a masterclass in raising leaders through presence, not pressure. Jordan and Mac unpack legacy, mentorship, and the ongoing pursuit of learning—reminding us that the gift may be God-given, but it must be God-used.

In this unforgettable episode of Growth Over Goals, host Jordan Montgomery sits down with Patric Young—former SEC Defensive Player of the Year and ESPN analyst—for one of the most powerful and inspiring conversations yet.Patric shares the story of his life-altering car accident in 2022 that left him paralyzed, and how that tragedy became the catalyst for a deeper purpose. With raw honesty and unwavering faith, he opens up about:The moment that changed everything—and how he found strength in the struggleLearning to receive help and the hidden strength in vulnerabilityHow gratitude and joy became his weapons against apathy and depressionHis deep relationship with Coach Billy Donovan and the culture of love that built a Final Four teamThe power of perspective, relationships, and living with intentionThis is more than a story of survival—it's a testimony of transformation. Whether you're facing your own adversity or simply seeking perspective, Patric’s journey will challenge you to embrace hardship, choose joy, and lead with love.📌 Plus: Learn about the Patric Young Foundation and the impact he's now making off the court.#GrowthOverGoals #PatricYoung #GratitudeInAdversity #Leadership #PurposeDrivenLife #BillyDonovan #Inspiration #Resilience #SECNetwork #FaithAndSports

In this special Year in Review episode of Growth Over Goals, host Jordan Montgomery looks back on some of the most impactful conversations of 2025—bringing together timeless leadership wisdom, personal conviction, and practical insight from world-class coaches, authors, athletes, and thought leaders.Across these standout moments, one theme rises above the rest: real growth doesn’t come from chasing outcomes—it comes from who you become along the way. From coaching the heart and leading with faith, to building meaningful relationships and addressing the loneliness epidemic, this episode captures the depth and purpose that defined the past year.Listeners will hear powerful reflections on:Why great leaders choose depth over breadth in relationshipsCoaching hearts before performance—and why it worksLiving with faith as an action, not just a beliefValuing people without keeping scoreThe overlooked importance of social health and connectionChampioning others at home, at work, and in the communityCuriosity as a catalyst for growth, leadership, and influenceThis episode is both a celebration and a challenge—a reminder that the most meaningful leadership is rooted in service, character, and genuine care for people.🎧 If you’re committed to growing as a leader, teammate, and human being, this conversation will leave you encouraged—and called higher. Subscribe, share, and step into the year ahead focused on growth over goals.

In this powerful episode of Growth Over Goals, Jordan Montgomery sits down with Jeremy Foster—one of the most gifted communicators in America—to talk candidly about his story of failure, grace, and redemption. Jeremy opens up about his rise in ministry, the mistakes that nearly cost him everything, and the transformation that followed. His honesty and vulnerability offer timeless lessons for leaders navigating both the mountaintop and the valley.Here’s what you’ll take away from this conversation:Why success amplifies both strengths and weaknessesThe choice between building a defense or embracing graceHow values slip by inches, not miles—and why leaders must guard themThe role of mentors and friends who choose you at your lowest pointThe importance of accountability, honesty, and redefining failure as redemptionA message of hope for anyone who feels buried in shame or uncertaintyThis episode isn’t just about leadership—it’s about second chances, the power of grace, and the courage to live with authenticity.🎧 Listen now and be reminded that no failure is final when grace has the last word.

In this unforgettable episode of Growth Over Goals, host Jordan Montgomery sits down with four-time Olympian and breast cancer survivor Chaunté Lowe for a raw, emotional, and empowering conversation on resilience, reinvention, and redefining what success truly means.From overcoming childhood adversity and homelessness to becoming an Olympic high jumper, Chaunté shares the highs and lows of her journey—including her battle with cancer, competing while nursing babies, and the faith that sustained her through it all. With unmatched vulnerability and strength, she reminds us that the real gold isn’t what hangs around your neck—it’s what’s forged in the fire of adversity.Whether you’re a leader, athlete, parent, or anyone navigating a tough season, Chaunté’s story will challenge you to lead with joy, live with intention, and use your voice for impact.🎧 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review to support the mission of Growth Over Goals.#ChauntéLowe #GrowthOverGoals #OlympicMindset #RedefineTheGold #FaithAndResilience #LeadershipWithPurpose #JordanMontgomery

In this powerful and insightful episode of Growth Over Goals, host Jordan Montgomery welcomes back Liz Bohannon, an author, entrepreneur, and passionate advocate for social health. Join us for a deep-dive conversation on how intentional relationships can radically transform our lives, workplaces, and well-being.Liz shares her journey from a 22-year-old journalism grad searching for purpose to founding a global fashion brand that empowers women in developing countries. More than entrepreneurship, her story is about connection, courage, and cultivating meaningful community. Together, Jordan and Liz explore what it means to live "relationally rich" in a culture battling an epidemic of loneliness and hyper-individualism.They unpack:The three pillars of human flourishing: physical, mental, and social healthWhy chronic loneliness is more dangerous than obesity or smoking 14 cigarettes a dayHow leaders can operationalize connection and culture in the workplaceThe four-part R.I.C.H. framework: Rhythms, Initiative, Communication, and HelpHow to build connection cohorts and normalize asking for (and receiving) supportThe cultural consequences of extreme individualism—and how to design against itA deeply personal reflection on how Liz’s community sustained her during COVID-19 business collapse fearsLiz’s call is clear: relational wealth is the greatest predictor of our long-term health and happiness. And it’s not built by accident—it’s built on intention.🎧 Tune in and learn how to get rich—the right way.#GrowthOverGoals #LizBohannon #Leadership #Loneliness #CommunityBuilding #JordanMontgomery #SocialHealth #WorkplaceCulture #RISE #MeaningfulRelationships #FaithAndLeadership

In this episode of Growth Over Goals with host Jordan Montgomery, Iowa’s new men’s head basketball coach Ben McCollum and assistant Luke Barnwell unpack the people-first philosophy guiding the Hawkeyes. From defining culture as “unwritten rules everyone actually lives by” to practicing honor, service, and humility, they share how great teams are built on the right people doing what they do best—consistently. They also talk through the leap to Iowa City, leading amid social-media noise, and what fans can expect as the 2025–26 season tips off. Culture = people + strengths: Identify the right people, then let them double-down on the 2–3 things they do exceptionally well rather than obsessing over weaknesses. Leadership as service: “Loving, serving, and consistently showing up” wins loyalty and performance. Leadership is a verb, not a title. “Underexposed & overdeveloped”: Both coaches value growing outside the spotlight—making “10,000 mistakes” in private to build confidence for the big stage. Honor produces access: Barnwell frames honor as aligning with your leader’s agenda and the team’s needs—ego aside. Staying power over destination addiction: McCollum stayed where he was making a difference; when the inner pull changed, he moved—with purpose. Noise vs. conviction: At a Power-Five program, brighter lights mean louder misinformation—so leaders must stay grounded and choose which battles not to fight. What Hawkeye fans can expect: A connected, physical group that plays as hard as anyone—and keeps getting better across the season. Humility & presence: “The work is the win.” Avoid the trap of “arrival”; be yourself, serve others, and stay present. Call to action: If you’re a coach, leader, or Hawkeye fan, listen for practical ways to build culture, lead with humility, and develop people for sustained excellence. Subscribe, share with a teammate, and leave a quick review to support the show.

In this episode of Growth Over Goals, Jordan Montgomery sits down with Bobby Gruenewald—pastor, innovator, and creator of the YouVersion Bible App, which is nearing one billion downloads worldwide. From his unexpected start as a Christian rapper to becoming one of Fast Company’s 100 Most Innovative People, Bobby’s journey is a testament to obedience, vision, and the power of faith-driven innovation.Together, Jordan and Bobby explore:The origin story of YouVersion, born in an airport security line and launched as one of the first-ever apps in the Apple StoreLessons from early failures that paved the way for global impactThe tension between business success and Kingdom purposeWhy true calling isn’t about hierarchy but about being where God wants you to beThe importance of sacrifice, stewardship, and keeping success in an open handThe vision for the future as YouVersion accelerates toward its second billion downloadsThis conversation is both inspiring and practical, reminding us that influence, innovation, and faith can converge to change the world.🔔 Subscribe now to Growth Over Goals and join the movement of leaders pursuing impact beyond themselves.

In this episode of Growth Over Goals, host Jordan Montgomery welcomes Chris Robinson—Executive VP of Maxwell Leadership and author of From Drift to Drive—for a dynamic conversation on reclaiming purpose, confronting complacency, and unlocking your fullest potential.Chris shares the personal journey and powerful wake-up call that inspired his bestselling book and outlines the 7-step framework that has helped high achievers around the world close the gap between good and great.You’ll learn:✅ How to detect complacency before it derails your purpose✅ Why “good enough” is the silent killer of greatness✅ The difference between gathering and filtering information✅ Why intentional reflection and feedback are critical to growth✅ How faith, humility, and valuing all people drives leadership that lastsThis conversation is packed with wisdom for anyone feeling stuck, drifting, or simply ready to level up. Whether you’re leading a team, running a business, or navigating a new chapter, this episode will re-ignite your passion and push you to drive forward.📘 Order From Drift to Drive: https://store.maxwellleadership.com/products/chris-robinson-from-drift-to-drive-a-high-achievers-guide-to-breaking-the-chains-of-complacency🎧 Subscribe for more interviews with leaders who live with purpose.

In this episode of Growth Over Goals, host Jordan Montgomery sits down with Doug Schwab—Olympian, National Coach of the Year, and head coach of the University of Northern Iowa wrestling program. Known for his humility and unwavering belief in his athletes, Schwab shares his journey from the Olympic stage to building one of the nation’s most respected wrestling cultures.Together, they explore the deeper lessons of leadership, resilience, and faith that extend far beyond the wrestling mat:Why trust and belief are the ultimate resources—not money, facilities, or credentialsHow humility and vulnerability create stronger leaders and tighter culturesLessons from loss, resilience, and building character that outlasts competitionThe importance of modeling leadership at home as a husband and fatherWhat it takes to attract, develop, and keep great people in a world of quick fixes and constant changeThe fight for faith and steadiness when success and pressure collideWhy culture is built on small acts of service—and why “it makes sense to us” has become his team’s mottoThis is more than a story about wrestling—it’s a powerful conversation on leadership, family, and faith that will inspire you to lead with humility and invest in people.🎧 Subscribe now and join us in learning from one of the most grounded leaders in sports.#Leadership #GrowthOverGoals #DougSchwab #Faith #Culture #UNI #Wrestling #JordanMontgomery

In this episode of The Growth Over Goals Podcast, host Jordan Montgomery sits down with Buzz Williams, head men’s basketball coach at the University of Maryland, for an unforgettable masterclass on leadership, character, and the power of intentional living.Buzz shares his remarkable journey from a junior college manager to a Division I head coach—despite never playing college basketball. With raw vulnerability and deep conviction, he opens up about the grit, discipline, and relentless relationship-building that shaped his rise, and the faith that continues to guide his path.Together, they dive into themes that transcend the court, including:Buzz’s unconventional entry into coaching through handwritten letters and unwavering persistenceWhy your decisions reveal your priorities—and how he applies that to family, faith, and leadershipThe sacred responsibility of stewarding influence and loving people without agendaWhy he spends more time developing character than drawing up out-of-bounds playsHow his “circle becoming a dot” reflects deeper relational wisdom in a noisy worldThis episode is a powerful reminder that greatness isn’t just built on talent—it’s forged in humility, faith, and the margins of life where true impact lives.🎧 Don’t miss this deep and inspiring conversation with one of the most thoughtful leaders in sports.#GrowthOverGoals #BuzzWilliams #Leadership #FaithInAction #CollegeBasketball #JordanMontgomery #CharacterDevelopment #ServantLeadership #PurposeDriven

In this powerful episode of Growth Over Goals, Jordan Montgomery sits down with Grammy-nominated artist, author, and speaker Matthew West for an unfiltered conversation about faith, perseverance, and what it means to live a life that truly matters.From leading worship at Carnegie Hall to navigating rejection and personal injury, Matthew opens up about the journey behind the music—and the deeper mission that guides it all. Whether he’s writing songs, raising his daughters, or championing young artists, Matthew reminds us that nothing in our story is wasted when it's surrendered to God.You’ll hear about:How faith, family, and failure shaped Matthew’s path to successThe surprising story of how rejection launched his songwriting careerChampioning his wife and daughters as the true world changersThe lessons learned from vocal cord surgery and career detoursWhy Psalm 46:10 (“Be still and know…”) remains his anchor verseThe power of staying humble, working hard, and elevating othersA behind-the-scenes look at what’s next: tours, devotionals, cruises, and moreWhether you're a parent, a leader, or someone navigating rejection—this episode is your reminder that God doesn’t waste anything.🎧 Learn more at MatthewWest.com#GrowthOverGoals #MatthewWest #PurposeDriven #FaithForward #ChristianLeadership #JordanMontgomery #Testimony #NothingIsWasted #BeStill #MyStoryYourGlory #WorshipAndWork

In this powerful episode of Growth Over Goals, host Jordan Montgomery sits down with Eddie George—Heisman Trophy winner, NFL Pro Bowler, Broadway performer, wealth advisor, and now head coach of Bowling Green State University—for an inspiring and deeply personal conversation on identity, impact, and the pursuit of purpose.Eddie opens up about:Overcoming academic struggles and finding discipline at a military academyThe heartbreak of early failure and how it fueled his rise to the HeismanWhy faith, focus, and intentionality are at the core of his leadershipHow coaching young men has deepened his own spiritual journeyHis acronym for living with F.A.I.T.H.—and how it guides his every decisionFrom the gridiron to the stage, from Wall Street to the sidelines, Eddie George’s journey is a masterclass in reinvention, resilience, and leading with humility.Whether you’re chasing a new dream, rebuilding after a setback, or simply striving to be your best self—this conversation will remind you what true greatness is built on.🎧 Listen now and be inspired to live, lead, and grow with purpose.#GrowthOverGoals #EddieGeorge #FaithDrivenLeadership #HeismanToCoach #JordanMontgomery #BowlingGreen #LeadershipWithPurpose #VersatilityInCalling

In this transformative episode of Growth Over Goals, host Jordan Montgomery sits down with longtime friend, author, and leadership coach Josh Kosnick for a raw and redemptive conversation on adversity, purpose, and the five bridges that lead to a fully integrated life.After losing his company and identity in a single day, Josh found himself in a pit of despair—but also on the threshold of something greater. Through his new book The Kairos Code, Josh shares how spiritual clarity, emotional healing, and intentional relationships helped him rebuild not just his career—but his legacy.Together, they explore:The Five Bridges: spiritual, internal, relational, environmental, and legacy—and how to cross them with intentionThe difference between Chronos and Kairos time—and why presence is the antidote to burnoutWhy adversity isn’t something to escape, but something to walk through with purposeHow to score your own "Life Quotient" with Josh’s free 84-question self-assessmentThe vision behind Bridge Builder Live and Five Bridges FarmA powerful reminder: “Are you having a bad day… or just a bad moment?”If you’re in a season of transition, longing for more purpose, or ready to build something that lasts—this episode will meet you where you are and invite you into your unlived life.📖 Preorder The Kairos Code🧭 Take the Life Quotient Assessment at JoshKosnick.com📍 Learn more about Bridge Builder Live in Madison, WI#GrowthOverGoals #KairosCode #Leadership #Legacy #FaithInBusiness #JordanMontgomery #JoshKosnick #PersonalGrowth #PurposeDriven #BridgeBuilder #EmotionalHealth #WorkLifeHarmony

In this powerful episode of Growth Over Goals, host Jordan Montgomery welcomes Cori Close—National Coach of the Year and head coach of UCLA Women’s Basketball—for an unforgettable conversation about leadership, faith, and coaching beyond the scoreboard.Cori gets candid about one of the most challenging seasons of her coaching career—navigating NIL chaos, transfer culture, and media expectations during a historic Final Four run. She shares what it truly means to coach the heart, the difference between character and reputation, and how her faith has shaped her leadership journey.Whether you're a parent, coach, business leader, or aspiring mentor, Cori’s wisdom will challenge and inspire you to lead with purpose and pour into others with love and accountability.🔁 Subscribe for more conversations that sharpen your mindset and stretch your mission.#GrowthOverGoals #CoriClose #Leadership #FaithDrivenLeadership #WomensBasketball #NIL #JohnWooden #CoachTheHeart #JordanMontgomery #UCLA #IowaWBB #CharacterOverReputation

In this deeply emotional and impactful episode of Growth Over Goals, host Jordan Montgomery sits down with Joe Skelley, father of Owen Skelley, to share the powerful and heartbreaking story of Owen’s life and legacy. Owen was a beloved son, a standout athlete, a kind friend, and a beacon of positivity—yet silently struggled with anxiety and depression.Joe courageously recounts the day Owen took his own life and reflects on the pain, grief, and growth that followed. This candid conversation covers the importance of recognizing unseen mental health battles, the danger of masking internal struggles, and the vital need for proactive, honest conversations—especially among youth and parents.As part of honoring Owen's memory, Joe and his family founded the OS14 Foundation, which provides resources for mental health awareness, financial support for counseling, and community outreach through scholarships, youth programs, and school-based initiatives.The message is clear: Be Positive. Be Proactive. Be Productive. And most importantly—speak up, seek help, and know that you’re never alone.🔗 Learn More & Support the Mission:Visit the OS14 Foundation: www.thebigofoundation.org

In this episode of Growth Over Goals, host Jordan Montgomery sits down with Sean McVay—Super Bowl-winning head coach of the Los Angeles Rams—for a powerful and deeply personal conversation on leadership, faith, and the power of developing others.Sean opens up about the leadership values that have shaped his journey, including how he identifies and cultivates talent, the importance of character over credentials, and why creating a culture of positive peer pressure is essential for high-performing teams. From elevating assistant coaches into head coaches to embracing feedback from players, McVay shares the mindset that has made him a leader of leaders.The conversation also explores:How Sean’s faith anchors his purpose and decision-makingThe influence of his father, Tim McVay, and the humility modeled through their relationshipWhat becoming a father has taught him about leadershipHow a 5–12 season after a Super Bowl win became the most formative year of his careerWhy authenticity, vulnerability, and truth-seeking matter more than ever in leadershipWhether you're a coach, executive, parent, or aspiring leader, this episode will challenge you to lead with humility, stay grounded in your values, and use your platform to serve others.

In this insightful episode of Growth Over Goals, host Jordan Montgomery sits down with leadership expert and convener Brad Lomenick for a powerful conversation on influence, authenticity, and servant leadership. From his days running one of the largest leadership events in the country to mentoring some of today’s top voices, Brad shares the heart behind creating meaningful gatherings and why flexibility, intentionality, and humility matter most.Jordan and Brad unpack:How to lead with an open hand and create environments where others thriveThe power of relational leadership and honoring others before asking for anythingWhat young leaders can do today to expand their network and build credibilityWhy starting small, failing forward, and staying faithful pays off over timeThe difference between chasing credit and creating impactThis episode is full of wisdom for aspiring leaders and seasoned professionals alike. Whether you're looking to grow your influence, launch your next big idea, or simply become a better friend, Brad’s perspective will leave you encouraged and equipped.