Unlocking Greatness with Ryan James Miller

"We lose sight of God when we remove human agency from creation. In a world increasingly automated, what happens to authenticity and true craftsmanship?"

In this episode, Ryan James Miller sits down with jeweler Nicholas Hayford to explore the intersection of faith, craftsmanship, and authentic living. What starts as a discussion about jewelry unexpectedly unfolds into a deep dive on manhood, marriage, and God-given purpose. From custom black diamond rings to the art of handcrafting pieces that last generations, Nicholas shares why he believes jewelry can be a powerful symbol of relationships and legacy.

Key Takeaways:

1. Authenticity and Handcrafted Art: Nicholas emphasizes the value of "old-world" hand fabrication over computer-aided designs, comparing hand-built pieces to pre-fab cabinets. This process brings him joy, knowing that he’s making something personal and meaningful—like the heirloom jewelry passed from one generation to the next.
2. Faith and Purpose in Craftsmanship: Ryan and Nicholas discuss how true fulfillment in work is found by aligning one’s skills with God’s calling. Nicholas believes his purpose is creating timeless pieces that honor relationships and reflect beauty, mirroring God’s creativity.
3. Marriage as a Foundation: A recurring theme is the vital role of marriage and family. Nicholas speaks on the influence of his parents' long-lasting marriage and how, for him, creating meaningful jewelry strengthens couples' connections. He considers his role as not just a jeweler but as someone helping men show appreciation for their wives in a lasting way.
4. Stewardship Over Success: Nicholas views his talents and career as gifts from God, something to steward rather than exploit. Ryan reflects on how men are often tempted to chase visible “greatness” but miss the opportunity to simply live out their calling with humility and integrity.

This episode speaks to men who want more than success; they want purpose, alignment, and a legacy that speaks to God’s call in their lives.

Whether you’re a craftsman or a corporate leader, this conversation encourages you to embrace authenticity, serve others, and steward your gifts faithfully.

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Don’t forget to leave a comment—what can you add to this topic? 

And check out the links below to learn more about our retreats, coaching, and free resources to help you achieve greatness. 👇

Links:

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Let's keep the conversation going! 

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How can real estate become a mission? And what does it look like to build wealth while serving others?

In this compelling episode, Ryan James Miller speaks with Scott Choppin, a visionary in the real estate world, about his transformative journey and his commitment to affordable housing for California's middle-income families. Scott shares the challenges he faces in a market often limited by high costs and complex policies, emphasizing a fresh, family-centered approach to development. From integrating faith into his entrepreneurial journey to rethinking the role of multi-generational housing, Scott underscores the need for real estate solutions that uplift communities and foster resilience.

Key Takeaways:

• Mission-Driven Real Estate: Scott is on a mission to create housing options for the underserved middle class, challenging the norm of government-only solutions with market-driven approaches.
• Family-Centered Solutions: Many families share housing costs across generations, highlighting the need for multi-generational living spaces.
• Faith and Wealth in Business: Scott views wealth as a means to serve, aligning his faith with his business strategy to promote ethical and sustainable community growth.
• Engaging in Local Politics: Advocacy for better housing policies begins at the local level, where community voices are essential in shaping housing solutions.

"Much is given, much is required. We’re not just building homes—we’re creating space for families to thrive."

https://coach.ryanjamesmiller.com/

Take the next step toward unlocking your potential.

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What if you stopped arguing for change and started designing it?

In this episode of Unlocking Greatness, Ryan James Miller hosts Stephen Courson, an executive coach, to tackle the essential questions behind "life design" and intentionality. The conversation unfolds with practical insights for those feeling stretched thin by distractions yet striving for true alignment in work, family, and faith. Courson opens with a memorable post that resonates deeply: "Imagine if people channeled the energy spent on politics into transforming their own lives." He dives into how the distraction of politics or other noise can deter people from fulfilling their unique purpose.

Main Takeaways:

1. Prioritizing Self-Design over Distractions: Courson emphasizes that one’s “most valuable resources—time, energy, attention, and money—should reflect personal values, not distractions like politics or screen time.”
2. Effective Boundaries for True Success: Whether it's setting social media limits or avoiding "good distractions" (even well-intentioned projects), Courson explains that focusing on what genuinely aligns with your calling brings growth and fulfillment.
3. Clarity in Goals through Essential Questions: Courson’s three guiding questions—What do you want? Why do you want it? How will you get it?—form a framework for building a meaningful and sustainable life strategy.
4. Redefining “Hero” Through Sacrifice: Both Courson and Miller point out the powerful truth: sacrifice is essential to genuine achievement. Heroes don’t emerge by chance but by commitment to a vision and readiness to sacrifice.

"Priorities aren't the things we say; they're the things we do." Courson drives home that it’s not about making time for what’s easy but committing to what’s worthwhile, even if it means saying no to less aligned opportunities.

This episode will leave listeners inspired to reevaluate their own paths, make intentional sacrifices, and approach their goals with conviction and clarity.

Subscribe to stay connected with more transformational content, engage in the comments with your thoughts, and check out links below to join my retreats, access coaching programs, and download free resources like “A Guide to Identifying and Challenging Negative Thoughts.”

https://coach.ryanjamesmiller.com/

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Connect with Stephen - https://x.com/StephenCourson

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Most Christians struggle with money, torn between faith and financial freedom. But what if you could build real wealth without compromising your beliefs? Today, we’re breaking down how to win financially as Christians—because God doesn’t call us to scarcity; He calls us to steward His blessings boldly.

In this episode, Ryan James Miller and Nate Dean discuss the importance of building authentic connections in the digital age, navigating feelings of loneliness in faith and business, and the significance of being true to oneself while growing a personal brand.

They explore the journey from traditional financial teachings to a more holistic understanding of stewardship and the shift from a scarcity to an abundance mindset.

The conversation emphasizes the value of investing in oneself and the role of faith in financial decisions, providing practical steps for better financial stewardship.

Become a Man of Greatness - https://coach.ryanjamesmiller.com/mog

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Would it surprise you to know that many men fear looking at themselves in the mirror—not just because of past mistakes, but because they can’t bear to face their own bodies?

Become a Man of Greatness - https://coach.ryanjamesmiller.com/mog

In a world that measures worth by appearance, men are silently battling shame, insecurity, and a distorted sense of masculinity. Today, we’re breaking that silence and digging deep into the hidden struggles of body image and the pursuit of true strength—not just in the gym, but in life.

In this episode of Unlocking Greatness, Ryan James Miller welcomes Seth Trout, a pastor from Ironwood Church in Phoenix, AZ, for a deep conversation on body image, masculinity, and the challenges men face in a culture obsessed with appearance. They dive into the rising use of steroids, the spiritual and physical implications of body dysmorphia, and how men can find true worth and value through Christ.

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In a world where men are bombarded with distractions and pressured to compromise their values, what does it really mean to lead with purpose and honor?

Today, we dive deep into the true cost of discipleship and the discipline it takes to be a man of God in modern times.

Become a Man of Greatness - https://coach.ryanjamesmiller.com/mog

In this powerful episode of Unlocking Greatness, Ryan James Miller is joined by Travis Maxey, a pastor and leader of a community of men, to discuss the power of faith, the challenges of modern masculinity, and how to stay committed to God's purpose.

This conversation dives deep into seeking God for who He is, the importance of engaging with Scripture, and the struggle men face in taking responsibility in a culture that often encourages the abdication of leadership.

This episode is filled with deep insights, challenging perspectives, and encouragement for men to lead lives rooted in Christ, responsibility, and discipline. You don’t want to miss it!

Listen now and be inspired to live with a greater purpose.

Connect with Travis:

https://x.com/travisdeanmaxey

https://www.travisdeanmaxey.com/father-culture-program

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"It's not about what you achieve, but who you become."

Download the ALIGNED Goal Setting Framework - https://coach.ryanjamesmiller.com/aligned-goal-setting

In this episode of Unlocking Greatness, Ryan James Miller explores the concept of true success from a biblical perspective. He emphasizes that success is not merely about wealth or status, but about aligning one's pursuits with God's will.

The conversation delves into the importance of balancing worldly success with spiritual integrity, integrating faith into professional life, and setting goals that honor God.

Chapters

0:00 Intro

2:32 Addressing Misconceptions About Success

5:48 Aligning Success with God’s Will

8:26 Balancing Worldly Success and Spiritual Integrity

10:37 The Biblical Framework for Success

14:59 Integrating Faith into Work

22:18 The Power of Generosity in Business

27:42 The Aligned Framework for Goal Setting

36:02 Biblical Examples of Success

Discover how high-performing men like you are breaking free from the pressures of life to become stronger leaders, husbands, and fathers - https://coach.ryanjamesmiller.com/mog

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God has a greater plan for all of us!

Want to discover your plan? Check this out - https://coach.ryanjamesmiller.com/offers/s7esXBXv

In this episode of Unlocking Greatness, Ryan James Miller explores the profound quest for purpose and meaning in life, emphasizing the importance of aligning personal goals with spiritual purpose through biblical guidance.

He shares personal experiences, including a life-altering event that prompted him to seek deeper understanding and connection with God. The conversation offers practical steps for discovering one's purpose, the significance of scripture, and the necessity of engaging with God for clarity and direction in life.

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Developing a biblical mindset is essential to navigate the complexities of a man's modern life.

Explore the core of who you are, gain a sense of purpose, and start living a life that aligns with your true self - https://coach.ryanjamesmiller.com/offers/s7esXBXv

He emphasizes that the goal is not just to know what to think, but to learn how to think critically and biblically. Throughout the conversation, he explores various themes such as the role of men in society, the significance of scripture as a guide, and practical applications of biblical wisdom in everyday challenges.

The episode encourages listeners to engage with scripture daily and apply its teachings to their lives for personal growth and transformation.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Biblical Wisdom

02:17 The Importance of a Biblical Mindset

03:57 Personal Journey and the Need for Truth

06:43 The Relevance of Scripture Today

10:09 Faith in Every Aspect of Life

11:58 Wisdom vs. Information

14:49 The Role of Men in Society

18:00 Grace and Forgiveness in Mistakes

19:21 Navigating Life's Challenges

21:05 Practical Applications of Biblical Wisdom

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In this episode of "Unlocking Greatness," Ryan James Miller dives into the challenges of engaging with those who challenge our convictions, especially when it comes to standing firm in our beliefs. As a public figure, Ryan shares his personal experiences with criticism and opposition, particularly following his recent decision to run for a local school board. He discusses how to deal with negativity and false accusations while staying true to core values.

Ryan emphasizes the importance of respectful dialogue, fact-based discussions, and clear communication of beliefs as key strategies for navigating criticism. He shares insights into how empathy and understanding can help mitigate anger and frustration when dealing with critics. Through engaging and constructive conversations, we can learn and grow, ultimately spreading more positivity in the world.

00:46 Ryan discusses the challenges of standing firm in his beliefs and how it invites opposition, especially in public life and recent events.

03:05 Sharing personal experiences with false accusations and how to handle them while maintaining integrity and character.

12:12 The importance of understanding the impact of criticism and the emotions it can evoke.

16:43 Strategies for engaging in respectful and constructive conversations with critics.

25:07 Techniques for active listening, empathy, and setting boundaries to navigate difficult discussions effectively.

35:37 The role of criticism in personal growth and the importance of standing by one's beliefs while being open to change.

Ryan invites listeners to engage in dialogue and share their thoughts on the episode. He encourages feedback, both positive and critical, to foster growth and understanding. Reach out to Ryan on social media or email at [email protected] to continue the conversation.

Website: Ryan James Miller

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Email: [email protected]

Stay tuned for the next episode of "Unlocking Greatness," where Ryan will explore more topics on personal and professional growth. Be sure to subscribe and leave a review to help others discover the podcast.