Rock Solid Families

Rock Solid Families is committed to helping educate, equip, and empower families to be all God created them to be! Merrill and Linda Hutchinson began Rock Solid Families in October of 2018. They have over 60 years of combined experience in teaching, public speaking, counseling, ministry, and coaching. After much prayer, Merrill and Linda made the decision to step down from their full time positions in the church and public school to focus on strengthening families. Both believe that healthy schools, churches, and communities depend on strong and healthy families. This weekly podcast is made possible through the generous financial support of community partners. With the help of local sponsors and the word spreading through listeners like you, Rock Solid Families is helping to build stronger communities one family at a time!

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Rock Solid Families

Rock Solid Families Getting Back to Work! Our first show since Merrill’s cancer diagnosis. Ep 330

September 30, 2025 • Rock Solid Families • Season 7 • Episode 329

Summary of the RockSolid Families Podcast Episode
The episode opens with a heartfelt introduction sponsored by Casey’s Outdoor Solutions and Gift Shop, a local business that beautifies homes inside and out. Linda Hutchinson and her husband, Merrill then take center stage, noting how long it has been since their last recording—two months, following a significant health crisis Merrill experienced.

Health Update
Merrill shares a deeply personal update about his battle with glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer. He recounts feeling unwell during the week leading to July 23rd, the day he was diagnosed. Before this diagnosis, he had enjoyed a summer filled with fitness and vitality, making the abrupt change all the more shocking. He describes his symptoms, including lapses in judgment and physical coordination, which led him to seek medical help.
Despite the grim diagnosis that follows—being informed of the aggressive nature of his cancer—Merrill highlights the importance of processing this news with Linda’s support. They discuss the urgency that has developed in their lives, emphasizing the need to cherish relationships and the time they have together.

Faith and Community
They reflect on how their faith has provided them with peace amid turmoil. They share insights from scripture, with Linda quoting from 1 Peter, which speaks of a “living hope” that transcends earthly challenges. The couple’s faith journey has brought them closer, and they express gratitude for the overwhelming support from family, friends, and community members during this time.
They acknowledge the powerful impact their health situation has had on their relationships, giving them a renewed perspective on the importance of expressing love and appreciation to those around them. Special mentions are made of the support they received from medical staff and the community, reinforcing the notion that one should never take relationships for granted.

Rock Solid Families’ Future
As they discuss the future of RockSolid Families, they announce Merrill’s retirement from his active role due to his health. He expresses hope for the organization’s continued mission—helping families build strong foundations rooted in faith. They introduce new staff members who will carry on their work, emphasizing the transition is not an end but a new beginning for the ministry.
With a focus on legacy, they encourage listeners to act and not delay in nurturing their relationships, underscoring the message that life is fleeting. The couple draws inspiration from Charlie Kirk’s recent passing, emphasizing the call to live meaningfully and to impart wisdom to future generations.

Closing Thoughts
In closing, the couple reflects on their experiences and the joy and peace they have felt, even amidst grief. They encourage listeners to trust in God, pointing out that even when facing life’s uncertainties, true peace comes from faith. Merrill shares his favorite verses, emphasizing the importance of submitting to God’s plan and the significance of community support.
The episode wraps with a heartfelt thank you to their sponsors and supporters, reiterating the importance of building a strong community, one family at a time. They invite listeners to stay connected and to reach out for support, ending with the reminder to cherish every moment and live fully in the present.

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