What if time management wasn’t just about cramming more into your day—but about building a life you genuinely want to live?

In this Edge of Excellence collage episode, host Matt Stewart brings together actionable stories, strategies, and honest reflections from leaders and entrepreneurs who have mastered the art of making time work for them. Whether balancing business growth, academic demands, or relationships, these voices reveal practical systems and mindsets that empower you to reclaim your day, reduce overwhelm, and stay true to what matters most.

You’ll learn how prioritization, disciplined planning, organization, and the right habits aren’t just productivity hacks—they’re the foundation for achieving excellence across work, life, and relationships. The episode goes beyond surface-level advice, exploring the real sacrifices, mindset shifts, and systems that help ambitious leaders thrive.

From ruthlessly protecting time for family (Eric Rose), embracing short-term sacrifices for long-term gains (Dane Mauland), to finding freedom and less stress through detailed calendars (Nic Bair), this episode highlights that there’s no secret—just intentional choices, honest evaluation, and a willingness to continually adapt.

Timestamped Highlights

[00:00 ] – Dane Mauland on developing time management and sacrificing spring breaks for long-term career success—why planning your week and sticking to it matter more than secrets or shortcuts.

[01:40 ] – Dane Mauland explains the “Google Calendar method”—blocking out non-negotiable items first, then flexibly filling in deadlines, priorities, and personal moments.

[06:16 ] – David Renberg and Matt Stewart discuss the transformative impact of hiring staff, delegating soul-sucking tasks, and not over-scheduling your day—why 70% capacity leads to greater efficiency and responsiveness.

[09:52 ] – Eric Rose shares the importance of fitness, clear priorities, and living your list—plus why having a habit of reviewing business data and making time for family never takes a back seat.

[11:48 ] – Filip Matic reveal the power of nightly planning—writing down tasks, allocating time slots, and how this not only boosts productivity but also leads to better sleep and less stress.

[14:21 ] – Johnny Rhee tells how treating his studies like a 9-to-5 job provided structure and freed up his evenings—turning relentless academic and work demands into manageable routines and lifelong habits.

[17:50 ] – Nic Bair mirrors Dane Mauland: planning out every week and every priority, including social and personal time, for a life without those sudden “Oh my god!” stressors.

[19:26 ] – Pete Schnepp describes how discipline, note-taking, and keeping commitments to class (even after long nights) built the resilience and productivity needed for success.

About the Guests

Dane Mauland — Software engineer, entrepreneur, and advocate for discipline and long-term planning, proving that short-term sacrifices can translate to lasting professional fulfillment. | Episode 19: Dane Mauland - Discover The Meaning Of Passion and Excellence

David Renberg — Real estate leader passionate about freeing up time through staff, delegation, and the right mindset. | Episode 135: David Renberg - The Massive Value of Making Meaningful Connections with People

Eric Rose — Real estate investor and entrepreneur, prioritizes fitness, organization, and family above all. | Episode 145: Eric Rose - Brave New Ventures: Habits That Redefine Your Journey

Filip Matic — Recommends detailed nightly planning and making every minute count. | Episode 71: Filip Matic How to Run a Successful & Thriving Business

Johnny Rhee — Shares the power of a “full-time job” approach to academics and time—leading to surprising freedom and growth. | Episode 101: Johnny Rhee - Obsessive Pursuit of Excellence

Nic Bair — Entrepreneur who found peace and performance through upfront weekly planning. | Episode 66: Nic Bair - For Success, Consider Who You Want to Be Like

Pete Schnepp — Disciplined student and morning person, shows how keeping commitments builds sustainable excellence. | Episode 89: Pete Schnepp - Excellence Is The Journey, Not The Destination

Important Links

1. Grow, do great work, and lead the way: National Services Group (NSG)
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3. Connect with Matt on LinkedIn
4. Watch 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.