What does real leadership look like? It’s not about titles or applause. It’s about rolling up your sleeves, owning your impact, and leading with heart.
In this Edge of Excellence collage episode, host Matt Stewart brings together four remarkable voices — Joe John Duran, Jeff Gunhus, Sharon Taylor, and Lisa Merage — to explore what it truly means to lead with purpose. From courage and humility to discipline and vision, these stories show that excellence starts from within.
You’ll hear about building a life of ownership and self-awareness (Joe John Duran), the pursuit of excellence through relentless curiosity (Jeff Gunhus), the power of mission, vision, and values in leadership (Sharon Taylor), and leading by example to empower women and communities (Lisa Merage).
Together, they remind us that leadership isn’t granted. It’s earned every day by how you show up, grow, and serve others.
[00:00] – Joe John Duran on humility, grit, and getting “in the mud” with your team.
[00:25] – Matt Stewart introduces a masterclass on leadership and excellence.
[01:00] – Jeff Gunhus on why excellence is a choice, not a talent — and how to balance happiness with ambition.
[03:00] – Sharon Taylor on the importance of mission, vision, and values in schools and organizations.
[05:00] – Lisa Merage on humility, choice, and leading by example in life and business.
Joe John Duran – Visionary financial leader and founder known for his philosophy on ownership, perspective, and purpose. | Episode 94 - Joe John Duran | Life Doesn’t Happen to You, It Happens for You
Jeff Gunhus – CEO and author focused on excellence, leadership mindset, and high-performance culture. | Episode 131 - Jeff Gunhus CEO, Home Genius Exteriors | Choosing Excellence - Building Vision and Culture
Sharon Taylor – Educational leader championing purpose-driven leadership through mission, vision, and values. | Episode 152 - Sharon Taylor | From Good to Great: The Secret Sauce of Transformative Educational Leadership
Lisa Merage – Entrepreneur and advocate for women in sports, redefining leadership through stewardship and example. | Episode 122 - Lisa Merage | Leading with Purpose - Transforming Women's Sports and Business
