Pursuit of Utility

Pursuit of Utility

By Nate ValentinEducationHow To
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Pursuit of Utility episodes

  • S3 E01 | Exposed: Two Years. Zero Episodes.

    You want to start a podcast.

    You've been thinking about it for two years. You've done the research. You're somewhere between the SM7B and whatever Andrew Huberman is running in his sound-treated studio in California.

    You have recorded zero episodes.

    The thing standing between you and starting isn't the mic. It isn't the format, the guests, the name, or whether to set up a Patreon before or after launch.

    It's that you're building a perfect version in your head so you don't have to risk making a real, imperfect one.

    This conversation is for you.

    5 min
  • Father's Day Check-In | Chasing Dreams and the 50/50 Rule

    In this special Father's Day episode of Pursuit of Utility, I dive deep into what it means to truly show up for the people you care about. From fixing brake lights to navigating the complex balance of supporting and pushing your kids, this episode is a candid reflection on the realities of fatherhood.


    I discuss the importance of not "hedging" on your dreams, why you shouldn't hide your talents from the world, and how the 50/50 rule can help kids explore their passions.


    Whether you are a parent trying to figure it all out or someone chasing a big goal, this episode offers practical advice on shifting from outcome-based expectations to focusing on what you can control: attitude and effort.


    Tune in for an honest conversation about the pursuit of being useful to those you love.

    34 min
  • 32. Built to Endure: Importance of Men's Health, Jeeps, and Independence

    In this episode, we explore what it really means to maintain your mental health as a man, no fluff, no autopilot. We kick things off with why Men’s Mental Health Month matters, break down the silent epidemic of depression and suicide, and then shift into low gear with a metaphor that hits home: your mind isn’t a Tesla—it’s a Jeep.We talk grit, gear, and getting unstuck. How working on yourself is a lot like modding your rig. Why therapy is like taking it to a mechanic. And finally, we tie it all together with a message for July 4th about creative independence and why creating something, anything, might just be the most radical act of mental health and agency you can choose.If you’ve ever felt stuck, worn down, or like you’re watching life happen instead of driving it, this one’s for you.Reach out at [email protected]#mensmentalhealth #agency #pursuitofutility

    36 min
  • 31. Father’s Day Special: Rethinking Provide & Protect

    “Provide and protect.” It’s the phrase we hear every Father’s Day but what does it really mean?


    In this episode, I unpack the deeper, often overlooked dimensions of fatherhood. Providing isn’t just about finances or about safety.


    I explore what it looks like to provide perspective, presence, and emotional vocabulary and how real protection sometimes means shielding your kids from your own ego or the lure of victim mentality.


    If you’re a dad, a mentor, or just someone trying to lead with intention, this one’s for you.


    This isn’t a Hallmark card. It’s a challenge to level up how we show up.


    #fathersday #provideandprotect #menshealth #parenting #beingadad

    55 min
  • How to Think About 2025 - Ideas for the New Year

    Listen to this episode to find out the areas that I am thinking about moving into next year.

    Here is that list:

    • Automate / Delegate / Remove
    • AI
    • Time to Process
    • Organization
    • Readiness
    • Doing it
    • Health

      • Here is the link to the Justin Mares article that I mentioned.

      Great American Poisoning


      Reach out to me at [email protected]


      #resolutions #newyear #howtocomeupwitharesolution

      45 min
    • Project Update | What's a Dad to Do for Fun? | Teach Your Kids How to Cook

      I provide a quick update on our latest farm project and also talk about the agency that comes from having your kids involved in what you do around your property and also how teaching them things, like how to operate equipment or cook their own food is the way.


      There is no greater good than to be of service to the people you love.


      #parenting #agency #utility

      15 min
    • We Who Are Your Closest Friends

      In this episode, I read one of my favorite poems, We Who Are Your Closest Friends, which just speaks to the insanity in which our mind operates. It was written back in the 1940s and is still true to this day.

      How might we get out of our heads such that we can live the way that we want without existing in so much turmoil? It is not easy but is a noble pursuit.


      Check out the video on YouTube.

      9 min
    • 25. Post-Father's Day Check-In | The Dad Scorecard

      Being a dad is the hardest job you will ever love. And with that job comes lots of room for improvement. In this episode I reflect on how I think I am doing as a dad with a few areas that I think I am getting better in and a few others that could use some work.


      If you have any ideas on topics that you want to hear discussed shoot me an email to [email protected]


      And remember, care a lot more about a lot less.


      #untuckedlife #fathersday #parenting #dad

      34 min

    About Pursuit of Utility

    From the publisher's feed

    Every week I have some version of the same conversation. With a client, with a friend, with myself. Someone stuck on a problem that feels bigger than it is. The gear they haven't bought. The spreadsheet that's "fine." The thing they can't start.