What if handling adversity was less about avoiding stress and more about growing alongside it? 

In this Edge of Excellence collage episode, host Matt Stewart curates transformative stories and mental frameworks from five exceptional guests—Genevieve Elefante-Sigmund, Caden Brunell, Lydia Hodgson, and Payson Maydew—for anyone seeking to turn life’s pressures into fuel for progress.

Here, you’ll hear firsthand how deep breaths, clarity of purpose, and an openness to growth can change the way you relate to stress. The episode moves beyond clichéd advice, diving into practical tools, honest reflections, and inner mindset shifts that empower ambitious young leaders to thrive—even in the face of setbacks.

From giving yourself kindness and grace (Genevieve Elefante-Sigmund), to getting out of your comfort zone (Caden Brunell), to embracing challenge as a catalyst for change (Lydia Hodgson), and mastering time management and mindset (Payson Maydew), these voices reveal that stress isn’t the enemy; it’s the invitation to excellence.

Timestamped Highlights

[00:00 ] – Genevieve Elefante-Sigmund on recognizing stress, pausing, and reframing adversity as opportunity—“there’s always a window, even when doors are closed.”

[01:49 ] – Caden Brunell on pushing past comfort and fighting for growth—why “the path to heaven feels like hell,” and how consistency pays off in the future.

[03:08 ] – Genevieve Elefante-Sigmund redefines excellence as daily resilience, self-kindness, and relentless, imperfect progress.

[05:40 ] – Lydia Hodgson on deep breathing, seeking perspective, and inviting challenge as a reason to grow—not a reason to retreat.

[07:22 ] – Payson Maydew reflects on bouncing back from adversity, learning from every setback, and using structure—“every 10 minutes of my day was planned”—as a tool to reduce stress and focus on what matters.

About the Guests

Genevieve Elefante-Sigmund – An inspiring leader devoted to growth, self-compassion, and honest storytelling—reminding us that excellence is a process of listening, learning, and rising, one day at a time. | Episode 120: Genevieve Elefante-Sigmund | Beyond The Bottom Line

Caden Brunell – Former nervous talker turned confident communicator, showing that stepping far outside your comfort zone is where true capability and resilience are born. | Episode 161: Caden Brunell | Transform Your Life Today by Leaning into Discomfort and Grit

Lydia Hodgson – Reflective and growth-minded, she invites listeners to accept the tough times as a springboard for positive change—and to never fear outgrowing who you are now. | Episode 116: Lydia Hodgson | Empowerment Through Vulnerability

Payson Maydew – Track athlete and time-management pro offering a practical playbook for converting adversity into progress, all while setting your own standard of excellence. | Episode 13: Payson Maydew | Overcoming Adversity in Pursuit of Excellence

Important Links

• Grow, do great work, and lead the way: National Services Group (NSG)
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• 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.