Seeking Excellence with Nathan Crankfield

Read the Substack articles here: https://substack.com/@nathancrankfield/note/p-199741491?utm_source=notes-share-action&r=28sukc

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Nathan Crankfield responds to criticism of his article on poverty and lays out a distinction he argues is often missed: material poverty is not a virtue, while detachment from riches and poverty in spirit are essential Christian callings.
He connects that distinction to Scripture, the Catechism, and the different responsibilities of religious and lay people, especially husbands, fathers, and providers.
He also responds to comments about the widow’s mite, the rich young man, the Good Samaritan, and the prodigal son. Nathan argues that these passages support generosity, sacrifice, and detachment without implying that most lay people should pursue destitution.
His main point: money is morally neutral but practically powerful, and Christians should discern how to use it for the good of their families and neighbors.

Timestamps
00:00 - Opening the conversation and responding to criticism
05:18 - Virtue, extremes, and why poverty is different
07:12 - Poverty is not a virtue, but a universal call is
09:34 - Material poverty and poverty in spirit
13:43 - Vows of poverty versus the lay vocation
16:06 - How travel reshaped Nathan’s view of poverty
19:59 - Why avoidance is not the same as virtue
22:45 - Why fathers should not subject their children to destitution
23:13 - Money, family life, and providing for loved ones
24:41 - Speaking to young men about ambition
25:05 - Responding to comments about God, generosity, and the poor
27:18 - The widow’s mite and giving until it hurts
32:07 - The Good Samaritan and the power to help
37:51 - The rich young man and religious life
41:14 - James on action, widows, and orphans
42:53 - Money, options, discernment, and stewardship

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Discipline, Parenting, and Raising a One in a Hundred Kid
Nathan Crankfield talks with Dr. Ray about modern parenting pressure, why overthinking can make parents timid, and how clear discipline, consistent standards, and calm follow-through shape children over time.
They focus on practical hot-button issues like sleep training, bedtime battles, spousal disagreement over discipline, spanking, diet, and adoption.
Dr. Ray brings a psychologist’s perspective and speaks directly to the reality of raising kids in a culture that often second-guesses parents. The conversation is especially useful for faith-filled parents trying to balance warmth with authority without becoming permissive.

Timestamps

03:10 - Why “gentle parenting” often backfires in real homes

06:40 - Bedtime battles and why sleep training becomes a family crisis

16:24 - When moms and dads disagree about discipline

25:56 - What happens when your disciplined child is the only one standing out

32:02 - Why eye-rolling and contempt deserve consequences

38:36 - Dr. Ray’s answer on spanking

44:40 - The goal is not merely a civilized child, but a virtuous one

48:47 - Why adoption should be a normal Catholic consideration

56:04 - His latest book: Drama Free Discipline

Books mentioned
Discipline That Lasts a Lifetime:
Adoption, Should You, Could You, and Then What?:
Drama Free Discipline

Check out the Substack here: https://nathancrankfield.substack.com/

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Life update, discernment, and the future of the podcast!

Nathan Crankfield returns to share a personal update, a reset after a long break from publishing, and the shape of Seeking Excellence going forward. He talks candidly about family news, work changes, mental health, and what he learned by stepping back to reassess his calling, habits, and pace of life.

Timestamps
00:00 - Returning after a long break and why this episode matters

01:58 - Sixth anniversary of Seeking Excellence and why now felt like the right time to pause and reflect

02:26 - Family news!

03:49 - Career growth at Hallow and why work stability changed the need for a side hustle

07:40 - The negativity fast and what it revealed about overload

10:51 - The sacrifices required for a truly excellent life

14:39 - Counseling, chiropractic care, and taking care of himself wisely

21:19 - Closing thoughts, prayer request for Emily, and final encouragement

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Most Christians misunderstand the true purpose of wealth—and that misunderstanding can trap you in a life of financial struggle or misguided arrogance.

Nathan Crankfield exposes how the modern obsession with poverty or prosperity isn't the Christian virtue it’s often claimed to be, but instead a balance rooted in love, stewardship, and purpose.

In this compelling episode, Nathan rewires your perspective on money by breaking down the myth that humility or ambition alone define a virtuous life. You'll discover why true Christian wealth isn’t about accumulation or self-denial but about purposefully aligning your finances with your calling.

We dive into the “virtue of the mean”, a concept from Aristotle through Aquinas, explaining how virtue with money exists in a healthy middle ground: provision as an act of love, not a pursuit of status or avoidance of responsibility.

Nathan shares real-life examples about the risks of both making money an idol or treating it as inherently suspect, and how spiritualized poverty can undermine your family’s well-being.

Learn more about Nathan's coaching programs: https://www.seekingexcellence.us/

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In this heartfelt episode, Nathan Crankfield delivers a powerful message to the Boomer generation, urging them to step up and become the heroes needed in today's world. With a focus on mentorship and active involvement, Nathan encourages older generations to use their wisdom and experience to guide and inspire younger ones.
Learn how Boomers can play a crucial role in addressing societal challenges by embracing their potential to lead and mentor. Nathan shares personal stories and insights, highlighting the importance of bridging generational gaps and fostering a sense of community and support.
Perfect for anyone looking to make a positive impact, this episode is a call to action for Boomers to rise to the occasion and help shape a better future. Join Nathan as he explores the transformative power of hope, encouragement, and intergenerational collaboration.