More Than Before

By Nathan Cook

MORE THAN BEFORE, hosted by Nathan Cook, shares stories of leaders, creators, and everyday people who live from identity, not just achievement. Each episode dives into faith, leadership, purpose, and ... more

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FAQs about More Than Before:

How many episodes does More Than Before have?

The podcast currently has 94 episodes available.

More Than Before episodes:

June 18, 2024Purpose Drive Everything
Jason Stoughton’s story is one of adversity, courage, forgiveness, and discovering purpose when life doesn’t go according to plan.
Jason, Senior Director of Sales for Affinity Waste Solutions, has experienced success in many arenas—from becoming a two-time state wrestling champion and professional archer to eventually stepping onto a semi-pro football field at 35 years old. But behind those accomplishments is a story marked by a fractured home, abuse, broken dreams, feelings of worthlessness, and moments when Jason questioned whether his life was worth continuing.
Everything began to shift when Jason heard a sermon on the radio that gave him something he desperately needed: hope.
That moment started a journey of intentional personal growth. Jason became a student of leadership, discovered the teachings of John Maxwell, and began changing not only what he believed about his future, but what he believed about himself.
Years later, Jason faced another opportunity to rewrite his story. A pituitary disease had taken away his opportunity to play high school football, but at age 35, he decided the dream wasn’t dead. He walked onto a semi-professional football field, tried out, made the team—and was eventually voted team captain.
In this episode of More Than Before, Jason and Nathan Cook explore what happens when we stop allowing adversity to define us and instead allow it to refine us.
They discuss courage, identity, personal growth, serving others, forgiveness, reconciliation, leadership, and the turning points that can completely redirect a life.
Jason also opens up about his relationship with his father and the difficult process of forgiveness. His story is a powerful reminder that your past may shape you, but it does not have to determine who you become.
What You’ll Learn
Why adversity can become a catalyst for growth and purpose
How the words spoken over us can shape identity and self-worth
Why courage is essential to practicing every other virtue
How mentors and intentional personal development can change your trajectory
Why serving others creates opportunities for meaningful impact
How to recognize turning points and awakenings in your life
Why some breakthroughs come only after years of unseen growth
How forgiveness and reconciliation can bring healing
Why adversity can either define you or refine you
What happens when you refuse to give up on a dream
Chapters
00:00 – Jason Stoughton’s Journey
03:27 – Growing Up in a Fractured Home
08:29 – Lessons From His Father: Hunting & Responsibility
12:37 – Integrity, Responsibility & Borrowing
22:07 – Jason’s Darkest Moments
26:25 – Finding Hope When Everything Changed
30:40 – John Maxwell & Investing in Personal Growth
31:58 – Delayed Growth & the Football Dream
34:22 – Serving Others & Making an Impact
36:18 – Let Adversity Refine You
44:23 – Turning Points & Awakenings
55:48 – Forgiveness, Reconciliation & Healing
Connect With Jason Stoughton
Website: JasonJStoughton.com
Instagram: @the_jasonstoughton
Facebook: Jason Stoughton
LinkedIn: Jason Stoughton
Connect With More Than Before
Follow More Than Before with Nathan Cook for conversations about identity, leadership, personal growth, faith, purpose, relationships, and becoming more than you were before.
Be more. See more. Experience more.
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1h 6min
June 11, 2024YOU MATTER: John Griffin
The conversation with John Griffin covers his journey from childhood to becoming a transformational leader. It delves into themes of forgiveness, personal growth, and leadership. John shares his experiences of overcoming a challenging childhood, finding peace through forgiveness, and discovering his value and worth. His journey leads to a career in leadership and coaching, ultimately serving with John Maxwell. John Griffin shares his journey of finding purpose and fulfillment through serving others and living out values-based leadership. He discusses the impact of self-worth, the importance of asking questions in marriage, and the transformative power of serving others. His experiences in Papua New Guinea and the lessons learned from his wife, Antoinette, provide valuable insights into personal growth and meaningful relationships.

Takeaways
Forgiveness is for the person forgiving, not for the person who could have received it.
Discovering value and worth in oneself is essential for personal growth and leadership.
Leadership is about serving others and adding value to them, regardless of how they respond.
The impact of influential teachers and mentors can shape a person's life and perspective.
Personal growth often involves overcoming past experiences and finding purpose in serving others. Finding purpose and fulfillment through serving others and living out values-based leadership.
The transformative power of self-worth and the impact of asking questions in marriage.
Lessons learned from experiences in Papua New Guinea and the importance of personal growth and meaningful relationships.
The influence of teachers and mentors can have a profound impact on someone's life.
Speaking life and encouragement into others can make a lasting difference.
Even in challenging circumstances, it is possible to overcome and find purpose.
Expressing gratitude and appreciation to those who have made a positive impact is important. Forgiveness is for the person forgiving, not the person being forgiven. It allows us to let go of past hurts and find peace.
We have no control over how others will respond to our actions, but we can choose to do the right thing.
Self-worth is essential for personal growth and fulfillment. Serving others can help us discover our value and purpose.
Asking questions and listening to others can deepen our understanding and improve our relationships.
Opening doors for others and serving them can bring joy and fulfillment to our own lives.

Chapters

00:00 The Power of Forgiveness and Personal Growth
09:54 Influential Teachers and Mentors
15:13 Overcoming Childhood Challenges
25:10 Journey to Leadership and Service
28:26 The Journey to Purpose and Fulfillment Through Service and Leadership
38:28 Navigating Self-Worth and Relationships
49:26 Lessons in Personal Growth and Meaningful Relationships

Contact John Griffin:
iequip.org
maxwellleadership.org
maxwellleadership.com
griffdevelopment.com
...more
58min
June 04, 2024Carl Gronberg: How to Live a Life of Adventure
In this conversation, Nathan Cook interviews Carl Gronberg, an executive coach with over 30 years of experience. They discuss topics such as gratitude, personal growth, discovering one's purpose, and the importance of working on relationships. Carl shares his journey to becoming a coach and the impact it has had on his life. He also reflects on his childhood and the challenges he faced as the middle child. Throughout the conversation, Carl emphasizes the importance of living authentically and finding one's true calling. In this conversation, Nathan Cook and Carl Gronberg discuss the importance of living life as an adventure and the impact it has on relationships and personal growth. They also explore the challenges of balancing high expectations with allowing children to be themselves. Carl emphasizes the need to study and understand oneself in order to lead others effectively. He shares insights on prioritizing and finding balance in life based on individual values and priorities.

Takeaways
Living with gratitude and eager anticipation can enrich our lives and positively impact others.
Discovering one's purpose and finding work that aligns with our true selves can bring fulfillment and satisfaction.
Working on relationships, including marriage, requires effort and a commitment to personal growth.
Living authentically and embracing our unique gifts and talents leads to a more fulfilling life. Living life as an adventure is crucial for personal growth and building meaningful relationships.
Creating adventure in everyday life is more important than waiting for big, milestone moments.
Balancing high expectations with allowing children to be themselves requires self-reflection and understanding.
Studying oneself is essential for effective leadership and personal growth.
Finding life balance involves prioritizing based on individual values and priorities.

Chapters
00:00 The Power of Gratitude and Eager Anticipation
06:18 The Journey to Becoming a Coach
13:18 Living Authentically and Embracing Your True Self
40:27 Balancing High Expectations and Allowing Children to Be Themselves
48:04 Studying Oneself for Effective Leadership and Personal Growth
...more
1h
May 28, 2024Katy Hylander: Escaping the Monetary Rat Race
Katy Hylander, a financial coach, shares her journey of overcoming debt and finding financial freedom. She grew up in a tight financial situation with a single mom who managed to save money and provide for her. This inspired Katy to learn how to manage her own finances. She and her husband went through a transformational journey of paying off debt and becoming debt-free. Katy emphasizes the importance of being on the same page financially as a couple and the need for open communication. She also talks about the power of persistence and tenacity in achieving goals. In this conversation, Katy Hylander discusses the importance of setting priorities and choosing the right community to stay grounded in who you are. She emphasizes the significance of apologizing and admitting when you're wrong, especially as a parent.Katy also shares a crucible moment in her life where she had to stand up for her faith and have a difficult conversation with a patient. She talks about the danger of comparing your life to others and offers encouragement to couples caught in the monetary rat race.
Takeaways
Being on the same page financially as a couple is crucial for financial success.
Open communication about finances is essential in a relationship.
Persistence and tenacity are key in achieving financial goals.
Managing finances and saving money can lead to financial freedom.
Prioritizing and setting boundaries in life can help maintain balance and focus on what truly matters.
Setting priorities and making intentional choices is crucial for living a fulfilling life.
Choosing the right community of people who share your beliefs and values is important for personal growth and support.
Apologizing and admitting when you're wrong, especially as a parent, helps establish trust and connection with your children.
Faith can be a guiding force in life and provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Comparing your life to others steals your joy and contentment, and it's important to define what a rich life means to you.
Avoid getting caught in the monetary rat race and focus on making wise financial decisions that align with your values and goals.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:01 Influential Figures in Katie's Life
06:20 The Power of Persistence and Tenacity
08:41 Katie's Journey of Pivoting Careers
11:49 Knowing When to Pivot and When to Push Forward
18:36 Realizing the Need for Change and Seeking Help
25:07 Being Grounded in Who You Are
26:30 The Importance of Prioritizing and Setting Boundaries
29:53 Setting Priorities and Making Intentional Choices
31:16 The Importance of Choosing the Right Community
34:37 Apologizing and Building Trust as a Parent
39:28 Faith as a Guiding Force in Life
52:23 The Danger of Comparing Your Life to Others
57:44 Escaping the Monetary Rat Race

Connect with Katy Hylander on IG:
https://www.instagram.com/katyhylander/

Connect with Nathan Cook
Website: www.nathancookcoaching.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/2nathancook/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/morethanbeforepodcast
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/therealnathancook
...more
1h 1min
May 21, 2024Jack Klemeyer: The Power of Laughter and Humor in Life
Jack Klemeyer, a leadership development consultant, shares his story and the importance of laughter and humor in life. He discusses his background, including odd jobs he had growing up and the influence of his parents. Jack emphasizes the value of problem-solving and providing solutions for others. He also talks about his ability to bring people together and create community, highlighting the importance of connecting people from diverse backgrounds. Jack shares his inspirations in comedy and the role of humor in his work as an educator and entertainer. In this conversation, Jack Klemeyer discusses the importance of making connections and finding opportunities in the business world. He also shares how his faith has played a significant role in his life and how it has centered him. Jack talks about the challenges he has faced in not conforming to societal expectations and how he has learned to extend grace to others. He emphasizes the importance of being intentional, aware, and reflective in order to live a fulfilling life. Jack also shares his experiences as a grandparent and the joy it brings him.
Takeaways
Laughter can bring joy and connection to any situation.
Being able to find the good and have fun in life is a valuable skill.
Problem-solving and providing solutions for others is a gift that can be developed.
Creating community and bringing people together from diverse backgrounds is important in today's
polarizing world. Making connections and finding opportunities is crucial in the business world.
Faith provides strength and acceptance.
Not conforming to societal expectations can lead to personal growth and standing out.
Being a grandparent offers the opportunity to pour love and wisdom into the lives of grandchildren.
Embrace each day as a new opportunity and trust yourself.

Chapters
00:00 The Power of Laughter and Finding the Good in Life
09:15 Problem-Solving and Providing Solutions
26:37 Making Connections and Finding Opportunities in the Business World
28:04 The Role of Faith: Strength and Acceptance
31:30 Not Conforming: Personal Growth and Standing Out
38:48 The Joys and Lessons of Being a Grandparent
50:24 Embracing Each Day as a New Opportunity
51:19 Trusting Yourself: The Key to Success

End Of Show Notes:
Contact Jack Klemeyer
https://www.GYBCoaching.com

Contact Nathan Cook
Website: www.nathancookcoaching.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/2nathancook/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/morethanbeforepodcast
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/therealnathancook
...more
54min
May 14, 2024The Power of Reflection and Self-Awareness with Kyle Gillette
Kyle Gillette, a professional coach and founder of Blue Shirt Business Coaching, shares his story and the impact of his upbringing on his work ethic and values. Growing up on an orange farm taught him the value of hard work and the importance of keeping his word. He also discusses the pivotal moments in his life, such as a mission trip to India and a mentorship program, that shaped his perspective and led him to where he is today. Kyle emphasizes the power of reflection, listening, and surrounding oneself with mentors who can see both where you are and where you can go. In this conversation, they discuss the importance of leadership, mentorship, and personal growth. They emphasize the need to take action and lead in every moment, as well as the value of having mentors who can provide guidance and remind us of our worth. They also explore the power of embracing challenges and learning from failures, as well as the importance of building connections and friendships. Kyle shares his experiences as a father and the lessons he wants to impart to his daughters, including the importance of purpose and seeking mentors outside of the family.
Takeaways
The value of hard work and keeping your word can be instilled from a young age and shape your work ethic and values.
Pivotal moments and experiences can lead to a shift in perspective and a recalibration of one's vision for the future.
Reflection and self-awareness are powerful tools for personal growth and overcoming challenges.
Listening is an art that goes beyond just hearing the content of what someone is saying; it involves listening for meaning and intuition.
Surrounding yourself with mentors who can see both where you are and where you can go is invaluable for personal and professional development.
Take action and lead in every moment.
Seek out mentors who can provide guidance and remind you of your worth
Embrace challenges and learn from failures
Build connections and friendships
Find purpose in everything you do
Install mentors in your children's lives
Encourage your children to ask themselves 'for what purpose?'
Chapters
00:00 The Impact of Upbringing on Work Ethic and Values
08:11 Pivotal Moments: Mission Trip to India and Mentorship Program
31:04 The Importance of Mentors: Seeing Where You Are and Where You Can Go
38:58 Embracing Challenges and Learning from Failures
49:55 Building Connections and Friendships
01:00:21 Installing Mentors in Your Children's Lives
End of show notes:
Contact Kyle Gillette
Website & Social links: https://blueshirtcoaching.ck.page/profile
Contact Nathan Cook
Website: www.nathancookcoaching.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/2nathancook/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/morethanbeforepodcast
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/therealnathancook
...more
1h 4min
May 07, 2024Chip Helm: The Power of Relationship Building and Follow-Up
Chip Helm, a speaker and author, shares his journey from wanting to be a dentist to finding success in sales. He emphasizes the importance of mentors and the power of networking and remembering people's names. Chip discusses the significance of preparation, repetition, and caring about others in achieving success. He also highlights the value of showing up as your authentic self and building genuine relationships. Chip encourages being aware of your surroundings and choosing environments that challenge and support personal growth. In this conversation, Chip Helms shares his insights on relationship building and the importance of acknowledging and following up with people. He emphasizes the value of treating others with kindness and respect, and the impact it can have on building strong connections. Chip also discusses the importance of instilling belief in others and the power of unconditional love, drawing parallels between his love for show dogs and the love and support he has for his children. He shares his personal chippisms, including the importance of optimism and treating others the way they want to be treated.

Takeaways
Success often comes from going beyond what is expected and outworking others.
Mentors play a crucial role in guiding and shaping one's career.
Networking and remembering people's names can lead to long-lasting relationships and opportunities.
Preparation, repetition, and caring about others are key factors in achieving success.
Being authentic and showing up as yourself is more effective than trying to be someone else.
Choosing the right environments and being aware of your surroundings can impact personal growth.
Acknowledging and following up with people is crucial for building strong relationships and growing your network.
Treating others with kindness and respect is essential for successful leadership and building trust.
Unconditional love and support can have a profound impact on personal growth and development.
Developing your own chippisms, such as being optimistic and treating others the way they want to be treated, can guide your actions and mindset.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Chip's Background
06:33 The Impact of Chip's Father and Mentor
13:31 Repetition and Preparation for Success
27:54 The Power of Relationship Building and Follow-Up
34:40 The Importance of Kindness and Respect in Leadership
50:33 Developing Your Own Chippisms for Success

End Of Show Notes:
Contact Chip Helm
Website: www.chiphelm.net
Email: [email protected]

Contact Nathan Cook
Website: www.nathancookcoaching.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/2nathancook/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/morethanbeforepodcast
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/therealnathancook
...more
56min
April 30, 2024Greg Gorman: Finding Wisdom and Faith in Challenging Times
Greg Gorman shares his journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a successful entrepreneur. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and developing principles in life. Greg also discusses the significant influence his grandmother had on him and how she planted seeds of wisdom. He opens up about a season in his life where he lost everything and struggled with his faith. Through introspection and a decision to live like he believes, Greg found strength and learned to trust God's plan. In this conversation, Greg Denning shares his journey of transformation in his faith, marriage, and parenting. He emphasizes the importance of cultivating faith and trust in God, just like a farmer tends to a seed. Greg and his wife made a pact to never yell at their kids, instead focusing on building self-confidence and respect. They also prioritize unity in their parenting approach, discussing desired outcomes and presenting a united front. Greg highlights the significance of asking God who He says we are and affirming the identity of ourselves and others.
Takeaways
Authenticity and vulnerability can make us relatable and bring value to others.
Developing principles helps navigate decisions and brings clarity to life.
Influential people, both big and small, can shape our lives and values.
Faith and trust in God's plan can provide strength during challenging times.
Belief is absolute, and doubt can be overcome through introspection and choosing faith.
Cultivating faith and trust in God is essential for personal transformation.
Parenting with intentionality and avoiding yelling helps build self-confidence and respect in children.
Unity in parenting, discussing desired outcomes, and presenting a united front is crucial for effective parenting.
Asking God who He says we are and affirming our identity and the identity of others is powerful.
Focusing on who we want to be in challenging circumstances can guide our actions and responses.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:47 Childhood and Influence
08:04 Developing Principles and Authenticity
15:13 Challenges and Loss
27:47 Choosing Faith and Trust
28:16 Cultivating Faith and Trust in God
30:10 Parenting with Intentionality and Respect
31:30 Unity in Parenting and Presenting a United Front
38:37 Cultivating the Right Soil for Family
46:57 Focusing on Who We Want to Be
End Of Show Notes:
Contact Greg Gorman
Email: [email protected]
Web: https://marriedforapurpose.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Marriedforapurpose
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marriedforapurpose/

Contact Nathan Cook
Website: www.nathancookcoaching.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/2nathancook/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/morethanbeforepodcast
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/therealnathancook
...more
58min
April 23, 2024The Biggest Secret Most Men Miss
Summary
Don Gleason, a transition coach and retired colonel in the United States Air Force, shares his journey from the military to civilian life and his passion for helping veterans find fulfilling careers. He emphasizes the importance of transition and finding the right job and life. Don reflects on his childhood as a compliant child and the influence of his father in shaping his character. He discusses the role of sports in developing his leadership skills and the value of humility and integrity in his military career. Don also addresses the challenges faced by veterans in transitioning to civilian life and the high rates of suicide among veterans. He shares his mission to help veterans find purpose and success in their post-military careers. Don shares his personal journey of faith and how it has shaped his life. He talks about accepting Christ and the impact it had on his relationships and decision-making. Don also discusses the importance of knowing oneself and finding passion and purpose in life. He emphasizes the need for a strong community and the role of mentors in personal growth and development.
Takeaways
Transitioning from the military to civilian life can be challenging, and it is important to find the right job and life that align with one's values and passions.
Sports can play a significant role in developing leadership skills, humility, and integrity.
Humility and integrity are essential qualities for effective leadership.
Many veterans struggle with finding purpose and fulfilling careers after leaving the military, leading to high rates of suicide.
Helping veterans find purpose and success in their post-military careers is a crucial mission.
Understanding and accepting oneself is crucial for building a fulfilling life.
Having a strong faith can provide a sense of purpose and guide decision-making.
The support of a loving community and mentors is essential for personal growth.
Finding passion and pursuing it can lead to a more fulfilling and successful life.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background of Don Gleason
02:10 Childhood and Sports: Compliance and Leadership
08:19 The Role of Sports in Character Development
13:01 Humility and Integrity in Leadership
22:35 Helping Veterans Find Purpose and Success
31:28 Finding Faith and Building a Life Around It
36:11 The Impact of Accepting Christ on Relationships
38:50 Knowing Oneself and Finding Passion
47:31 The Importance of Community and Mentors
...more
1h 4min
April 16, 2024Evan Aldrete: Creating Capacity and Saying No
Evan Aldrete, co-owner of Insomnia Coffee Company and Dapper & Wise Roasters, shares his journey as an entrepreneur and his passion for serving people and the community. He discusses his childhood and how he developed his extroverted nature as a way to cope with difficult circumstances. Evan also talks about the early days of starting his coffee businesses and the lessons he learned, including the importance of caring for every customer and striving for excellence without pursuing perfection. He emphasizes the value of delegation and finding a balance between family, business, and personal interests. I
n this conversation, Nathan and Evan discuss the importance of creating capacity in life and the power of saying no. They also explore the parallels between running a coffee shop and a performing arts company, and the joy of creating safe spaces for people to be themselves. Evan shares his approach to nurturing the spark in others, particularly his children, by reading them every day and creating opportunities for them to express themselves. Overall, the conversation highlights the value of connection, collaboration, and creating meaningful experiences.
Takeaways
Embrace your imperfections and find beauty in them.
Strive for excellence without pursuing perfection.
Care for every customer and go the extra mile to build relationships.
Delegate tasks and responsibilities to free up time for personal life and family.
Find a balance between family, business, and personal interests. Creating capacity in life requires delegating and prioritizing what truly serves your goals.
Saying no is essential to increase your capacity and live life on your own terms.
Running a coffee shop and a performing arts company have striking similarities in managing and creating environments.
Creating safe spaces allows people to be themselves and experience connection and joy.
Nurturing the spark in others involves reading them every day and creating opportunities for them to express themselves.
Building strong relationships with your children requires prioritizing time, creating open spaces, and believing in the strength of your bond.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:37 Childhood and Coping Mechanisms
07:46 Transition into the Coffee Business
13:20 Lessons Learned in the Early Days
18:25 Balancing Perfectionism and Excellence
24:06 Juggling Family, Business, and Personal Interests
27:58 Creating Capacity and Saying No
34:43 Parallels Between Coffee Shop and Performing Arts
38:24 Creating Safe Spaces for Authenticity
43:34 Nurturing the Spark in Others
48:39 Building Strong Relationships with Children
...more
57min

FAQs about More Than Before:

How many episodes does More Than Before have?

The podcast currently has 94 episodes available.