More Than Before

More Than Before

Download on the App Store

More Than Before episodes

  • Katy 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

      1 hr 1 min
    • Jack 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

         

        54 min
      • The 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

          1 hr 4 min
        • Chip 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

             

            Contact Nathan Cook

            Website: www.nathancookcoaching.com

            Instagram: www.instagram.com/2nathancook/

            Facebook: www.facebook.com/morethanbeforepodcast

            LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/therealnathancook

            56 min
          • Greg 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

              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

              58 min
            • The 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

                1 hr 4 min
              • Evan 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

                   

                  57 min
                • The Comeback The World Didn’t See

                  Jason Flame, a professional wrestler and martial artist, shares his childhood experiences and the influence of his family on his journey. Growing up in Newberry Park, California, Jason faced both highs and lows, from living in a tent to enjoying the luxuries of life. His parents' self-employment taught him valuable lessons about owning a business and providing for his family. Jason's mother played a significant role in supporting his dreams and instilling confidence in him. He credits her for his success in martial arts and pursuing his passion for professional wrestling. Jason talks about his journey in professional wrestling and how he overcame challenges to pursue his dream. He shares his experience of living in a travel trailer with his family and the lessons he learned from his parents' relationship. Jason also discusses the importance of teamwork and staying in your lane when working with your spouse. He emphasizes the value of lifelong learning and how it has helped him grow as a martial artist and business owner.

                  Takeaways

                  • Jason Flame's childhood in Newberry Park, California was filled with both challenges and memorable experiences.
                  • His parents' self-employment taught him valuable lessons about owning a business and providing for his family.
                  • Jason's mother played a significant role in supporting his dreams and instilling confidence in him.
                  • His passion for martial arts led him to pursue a career in professional wrestling. Don't let setbacks or challenges deter you from pursuing your dreams
                  • Family support and resilience can help overcome difficult times
                  • Teamwork and staying in your lane are crucial when working with your spouse
                  • Lifelong learning is essential for personal and professional growth
                  • Chapters

                    00:00 Introduction to Jason Flame
                    02:09 Childhood in Newberry Park, California
                    03:01 Lessons from Self-Employment
                    05:55 The Power of Support from Jason's Mother
                    08:18 Following His Passion: Martial Arts to Professional Wrestling
                    34:11 From a Travel Trailer to Success
                    37:37 The Importance of Family and Time
                    40:26 Lessons from Parents' Relationships
                    45:43 Teamwork and Staying in Your Lane
                    55:30 The Power of Lifelong Learning

                     

                    Contact Jason Flame:

                    https://linktr.ee/JasonFlame

                     

                    Contact Nathan Cook:

                    Website: www.nathancookcoaching.com

                    Instagram: www.instagram.com/2nathancook/

                    Facebook: www.facebook.com/morethanbeforepodcast

                    LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/therealnathancook

                    1 hr 4 min
                  • CONFIDENCE WITHOUT EGO

                    Mark Cole, the owner and CEO of a large leadership brand, discusses servant leadership and his upbringing as a preacher's kid. He shares how his father and mother served others and how his brother with special needs taught him about love and acceptance. Mark also talks about the importance of being a lifelong learner and the mentors who have influenced him. He emphasizes the value of gratitude and humility in every situation. In this conversation, Mark Cole shares his insights on leadership, personal growth, and the importance of family. He emphasizes the need to stay grounded and humble, walk with confidence, and be interesting when entering any room. Mark also discusses overcoming past failures and forging a new journey of growth. He highlights the role of grandparents in today's society and the importance of showing up for family. Lastly, he talks about the power of borrowing belief from others and finding confidence in order to succeed.

                     

                    Takeaways

                    • Servant leadership is about serving others regardless of their status or position.
                    • Growing up as a preacher's kid taught Mark Cole the importance of serving others.
                    • Mark's brother with special needs taught him about love and acceptance.
                    • Mark believes in being a lifelong learner and finding mentors in every situation.
                    • Gratitude and humility are key in every opportunity and interaction. Stay grounded and humble, regardless of the room you walk into.
                    • Walk with confidence and be interesting to make a positive impression.
                    • Overcome past failures by letting go of the past and embracing a mindset of rest and peace.
                    • Show up for your family and be present in their lives.
                    • Borrow belief from others to find confidence and overcome self-doubt.
                    • Chapters

                      00:00 Introduction and Welcome
                      03:14 The Power of Servant Leadership
                      09:55 Lessons from Growing Up as a Preacher's Kid
                      12:14 Learning from a Brother with Special Needs
                      25:44 Finding Mentors in Every Situation
                      28:25 Gratitude and Humility in Every Opportunity
                      29:28 Staying Grounded and Humble
                      30:28 Walking with Confidence and Being Interesting
                      36:02 Overcoming Past Failures and Embracing a New Journey
                      38:55 The Role of Grandparents in Today's Society
                      52:29 Borrowing Belief and Finding Confidence

                      Mark Cole

                      Instagram:

                      https://www.instagram.com/jmarkcole

                      https://www.instagram.com/maxwellleadership

                      LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markcole1/ 

                      https://www.maxwellleadership.com/mark-cole/

                      Twitter: https://twitter.com/jMarkCole

                      Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcY4omYaHiAMk7x4mNcQmpg

                      Podcast: https://www.maxwellleadership.com/podcast/category/executive-leadership-podcast/

                       

                      Contact Nathan Cook

                      Website: www.nathancookcoaching.com

                      Instagram: www.instagram.com/2nathancook/

                      Facebook: www.facebook.com/morethanbeforepodcast

                      LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/therealnathancook

                      1 hr
                    • Michael Loomis: Finding Peace and Purpose through Rest and Trust

                      In this conversation, Nathan Cook interviews Michael Loomis, a former basketball player and salesperson, about his journey of personal growth and overcoming challenges. Michael shares his experiences growing up in Kenya and Portland, his relationship with his basketball-playing grandfather, and the mentors who influenced his life. He discusses the trials he faced, including family issues and health problems, and how they shaped his desire for personal growth. Michael also talks about his decision to enter the sales industry to overcome his fear of rejection and develop confidence. The conversation concludes with his move to Tennessee and the importance of rest and trusting in God's plan. Michael Loomis shares his journey of personal growth and transformation, highlighting the importance of saying yes to opportunities and trusting in God's guidance. He emphasizes the value of investing in oneself and the power of forgiveness in finding peace and freedom. Michael encourages listeners to focus on being rather than doing, and to prioritize rest and self-care. He concludes by reminding everyone that they have everything they need to thrive and make a positive impact in the world.

                       

                      Takeaways

                      • Trials and challenges can lead to personal growth and self-reflection.
                      • Having mentors and positive influences in life can make a significant impact.
                      • Neuroplasticity allows for the change of thought patterns and behaviors.
                      • Facing fears and rejection can lead to personal development and confidence.
                      • Rest and trusting in God's plan are essential for finding peace and purpose. Saying yes to the opportunities that come your way can lead to unexpected and transformative experiences.
                      • Trusting in God's guidance and relinquishing control can open doors to new paths and possibilities.
                      • Investing in oneself, whether through education, coaching, or therapy, can lead to personal growth and new perspectives.
                      • Forgiveness is a powerful tool for finding peace and freedom, both for oneself and in relationships with others.
                      • Focusing on being rather than doing allows for a more balanced and fulfilling life.
                      • Prioritizing rest and self-care is essential for overall well-being and personal growth.
                      • Everyone has the potential to thrive and make a positive impact in their own unique way.
                      • Chapters

                        00:00 Introduction and Background
                        08:53 The Influence of Mentors
                        14:57 Overcoming Trials and Challenges
                        24:55 Finding Peace and Purpose
                        28:38 Saying Yes and Trusting God's Guidance
                        36:12 Investing in Yourself for Personal Growth
                        44:07 Finding Peace and Freedom Through Forgiveness
                        53:01 Being vs Doing: Embracing a Balanced Life

                         

                        Contact Michael Loomis

                        LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-loomis-3bb53b95/ 

                         

                        Contact Nathan Cook

                        Website: www.nathancookcoaching.com

                        Instagram: www.instagram.com/2nathancook/

                        Facebook: www.facebook.com/morethanbeforepodcast

                        LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/therealnathancook

                        58 min

                      About More Than Before

                      From the publisher's feed

                      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 personal growth—revealing how challenges refine rather than define us. Be inspired to live with greater intention, excellence, and authenticity.