In this week’s episode of Solid Start, Brian joins Greg to explore one of life’s deepest questions: What will finally satisfy you? Together, they unpack the restless search for meaning that so many of us experience and wrestle with questions like, Is this all there is? and Why are we wired to long for something more? If you’ve ever wondered whether your life is accidental or designed with purpose, this conversation offers honest insight and hope for the journey. 

In this heartfelt episode of Solid Start, Greg Reid sits down with Jake “Goody” Goodman for an honest conversation about how life’s experiences shape who we become. Together, they explore the powerful idea that God never wastes an experience whether it’s hardship, fear, growth, or personal transformation. 

Jake opens up about several defining moments in his life, including the decision to change his lifestyle one step at a time, ultimately losing over 100 pounds through accountability, discipline, and small daily choices. His message is simple but powerful: lasting change begins with deciding to start.  

This episode reminds listeners that transformation doesn’t happen overnight. It happens through consistent “baby steps,” supportive relationships, and the willingness to believe that change is truly possible.

In this episode, we explore how life’s experiences, both challenging and uplifting, can shape our faith and purpose. Greg is joined by a Candice Collins, Merrell Bros, HR Benefits Manager. Drawing from personal stories and biblical insight, they share how to find meaning in your struggles, support others through shared experiences, and walk confidently in your journey.

In this episode of Solid Start, Greg Reed and Marcus Misinec explore the role of personality within the “SHAPE” framework, emphasizing how individual differences influence leadership, teamwork, and relationships. They discuss how recognizing and appreciating diverse personalities—rather than gravitating only toward similar ones—can strengthen teams, improve communication, and advance a shared mission. Through practical examples from work, family, and faith, the conversation highlights the importance of curiosity, intentional connection, and embracing discomfort as leaders seek to understand and value others more effectively.  

Greg and Brian are joined by Merrell Bros. driver Travis Bline for a down-to-earth conversation on choosing a positive attitude in everyday life. Drawing from Philippians 2:15–16, they explore what it means to be a “breath of fresh air” in today’s world—and challenge listeners to bring encouragement and light into conversations this week. 

Brian and Greg sit down with Ron Dennis, Fabrications Director at Merrell Bros., to explore what it means to find true purpose in your work. Ron opens up about the real burdens and past struggles he’s faced, and how he went from unfulfilling jobs to leading a team he’s deeply passionate about today. He also shares his lifelong love of racing and how that passion helped keep him on the right track. Greg challenges listeners to not ignore the burdens on their hearts—own them, pray about them, and let God use them. 

Brian and Greg sit down with Matt Hayden, Logistics Manager at Merrell Bros., to talk about what it really looks like to use the strengths God has given you in your everyday life.

Not everyone is called to be a logistics manager—but for Mat, his unique strengths have placed him in a role where he can truly thrive and make an impact. This episode is a powerful reminder that purpose isn’t about the title—it’s about how you show up and use what you’ve been given.

Greg challenges you this week to identify one of your strengths and intentionally use it to help someone—both at work and at home.

You were given those strengths for a reason. Now go use them.

In this powerful episode, Greg and Brian sit down with special guest Reece Renie to talk about what it truly means to “take off our crowns” and make Jesus the King of our lives. Too often, we miss the opportunity to fully follow Christ because we hold tightly to our own plans, thinking our ways are better.

Reece shares a deeply personal story from the Merrell Bros. mission trip to Jamaica, where he experienced a life-changing moment of surrender—laying down his crown and allowing Christ to transform his heart and direction.

This week’s message is simple but challenging: Don’t miss the King. Tune in as the conversation invites you to reflect, surrender, and step into a deeper walk with Christ.

This week on Solid Start, Greg and Brian sit down with Michael Gatliff, Automation Engineer at Merrell Bros., for a powerful and personal conversation. Michael shares about his family, his time in the military, and the life-changing moment he gave his life to Christ at the bottom of a sludge tank. 

Greg and Brian are joined by Edwin Ruiz for a powerful and deeply moving conversation. Edwin shares his incredible journey to the United States, and for more than 30 years, never knowing what the future might hold.

Through decades of uncertainty, Edwin remained faithful—trusting God’s plan and His perfect timing. Today, after years of waiting and perseverance, Edwin has finally received his Green Card and no longer has to live in fear.

His story is a remarkable testimony of faith, patience, and trusting God even when the path is long and uncertain. You won’t want to miss this inspiring episode.

Listen now and be encouraged by a story that reminds us that God is always working—even in the waiting. 🙏

This week on Solid Start, Greg and Brian welcome Candice Collins to discuss the challenge and blessing of trusting God’s timing. When life doesn’t move at our pace, faith reminds us that His timing is always right. 

On this week’s episode of Solid Start, Brian and Greg sit down with Travis Ray, electrician at Merrell Bros., to hear his powerful testimony of how God led him exactly where he needed to be.  Travis shares how God’s plans don’t always look like our plans — and how walking in obedience, even when it’s unexpected, opens the door to incredible blessings.   Tune in for an encouraging conversation about faith, trust, obedience, and being a blessing to others. 

This week on Solid Start, Brian is joined by Holly Worland for a powerful conversation about how life can often feel like a battlefield. Holly courageously shares a personal story about a difficult season her family faced and how God sustained them through it, surrounding them with supportive friends and family. 

What if serving others wasn’t a chore—but a joy? Greg and Brian connect John 13 to everyday gratitude and the power of saying “My pleasure.” Featuring a special guest conversation with one of our own - Isaiah James. 

This week on Solid Start, Greg and Brian talk about what it means to call on the name of the Lord and why it matters. We all experience tough times—isn’t it comforting to know you never have to face those moments alone? 

Being out on a limb is that place in life where you feel exposed, unsure, and just hoping someone sees you. In this episode, Greg and Brian explore the story of Zacchaeus—literally out on a limb—when Jesus stops, looks up, and calls him by name. Just days before the cross, Jesus shows why He came: to seek the lost, invite relationship, and lead people from being lost to being found. 

It’s easy to clock in and check out—but Jesus calls us to something deeper. In this episode of Solid Start, we look at the Good Shepherd and what it means to show up, stay present, and genuinely care about the people around us. 

In this episode of Solid Start, Greg and Brian unpack the parable of the Good Samaritan and challenge a question we often ask ourselves: “If I stop and help, what will happen to me?” Instead, they urge listeners to flip the question—“If I do not stop and help, what will happen to him?” Fear, self-preservation, and convenience can keep us from acting justly, but moral faithfulness is ultimately measured by our actions. 

In this episode of Solid Start, Greg and Brian are joined by Terry Merrell as they unpack James 1:19 and discuss how being quick to listen can positively shape our relationships at home and in the workplace. 

Merrell Bros. CEO Dustin Smith joins Greg and Brian to kick off a new year of Solid Start by reflecting on the Christ-centered foundation of the company. This episode launches a new initiative inspired by The Way of the Shepherd, focusing on the first-quarter principle: Knowing the Condition of Your Flock. Listeners are encouraged to take time this week to ask someone how they’re doing—and truly listen without rushing. 

Podcast host and life coach Greg Reid sits down with special guest, Matt Droll, to explore one of humanity’s oldest questions...what happens to us when we die?

In this special Christmas episode, Brian and Greg reflect on the greatest gift ever given—God sending His Son, Jesus, into the world. They discuss how the good news of Christ’s birth was first announced to humble shepherds and how God used ordinary people to share an extraordinary message. This conversation encourages us to see that God still works the same way today—using everyday people, including us, to share the good news of Jesus and the peace He brings to the world. 

In this episode of Solid Start, Greg and Brian explore the third of five gifts God offers us—forgiveness. They discuss why forgiving others isn’t optional but essential to living the life God intends for us, and how forgiveness can lead to freedom, healing, and spiritual growth. 

In this episode of Solid Start, Brian and Greg sit down with guest Jean Merrell to explore the gift of faith—believing in Jesus and trusting Him fully. Jean shares powerful stories from her recent trip to Uganda, where she and her husband Ted learned firsthand what it means to trust God for provision, guidance, and courage to put faith into action. 

In this episode of Solid Start, Brian and Greg sit down to discuss the often misunderstood yet deeply powerful gift of the Holy Spirit.  Through stories and practical insights, they discuss how the Spirit brings courage in the face of fear, wisdom in times of confusion, love in the midst of difficulty, direction in moments of uncertainty, and strength in times of weakness. A grounded and uplifting conversation you won’t want to miss. 

In this episode of Solid Start, Brian, Greg, and Marcus discuss the true meaning of gratitude and the importance of acknowledging and thanking God for the small things we often overlook. 

Greg and Brian guide you through a meaningful look at James 4:13–14, reminding us that our lives are like a morning fog, and tomorrow is never promised. Together they discuss how to walk through each day with a posture of surrender—releasing our plans, our expectations, and our need for certainty. This episode invites you to open your hands, trust God’s timing, and embrace His direction in the present moment. 

This week on Solid Start, we welcome Ted and Jean Merrell — a couple whose lives reflect what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Ted and Jean share their excitement about the upcoming Merrell Bros. trip to Jamaica and invite employees to take part in this life-changing experience. They also discuss an incredible ministry opportunity in Uganda through TheWay.  Join us for an inspiring conversation about faith, service, and following where God leads. 

Brian and Greg dive into Jesus’ ascension and what it means for us today. The ascension wasn’t the end of Jesus’ ministry—it was the kickoff for ours.  It is time to get off the bench, live boldly, and share Jesus with the world around us. 

We’re honored to welcome Bishop Georg Mc'Omwanda to the podcast as he recounts his extraordinary journey of healing and renewal. Hear how God restored his vision—both physically and spiritually—and how this miracle continues to inspire his ministry and faith. 

In this episode, we wrap up our conversation on the leadership principles behind the word FOCUS — standing for Faithful, Obedient, Courageous, Unwavering, and Servant. Special guest Marcus Misinec joins Greg Reed to explore one of the most powerful qualities of great leaders: servanthood.

In this episode, we take a down-to-earth look at Thomas — the disciple who doubted Jesus’ resurrection — and what his story says to us today. From the job site to the kitchen table, doubt shows up in real ways. But the same Jesus who met Thomas meets us too — in our work, our worries, and our everyday grind — bringing resurrection life to those who believe. 

This week on Solid Start, we’re bringing you something special — a message from Terry Merrell to the Merrell Bros. family about faith, hope, and the most important question of all: “How do I get to Heaven?”

Jesus showed us the power of serving rather than seeking to be served. Imagine how different life could feel if we embraced that same posture. In this episode, Brian & Greg unpack the surprising joy and freedom that come when we choose service over self. 

When temptation knocks, Jesus shows us the way out. In this episode, we unpack Matthew 4:1–11 and watch how Jesus counters every lie with “It is written,” trusts the Father instead of testing Him, and rejects shortcuts to power. You’ll learn a simple battle plan—remember your identity, reach for Scripture, and rely on the Holy Spirit—so we don't give in to temptation. This episode will strengthen your resolve for the week ahead, hope-filled, practical, and rooted in God’s faithfulness. 

On a scale of 1 - 100, if you took your last breath today, how certain are you that you would go to heaven?  That's a tough question, but one Greg and Brian discuss on this episode of Solid Start.  

When life throws bumps our way, what spills out of your cup? Anger? Frustration? Fear? Join Greg and Brian for today's conversation as they examine how to fill your cup with love, peace, and grace that comes from a life rooted in Christ. 

Join the conversation as Greg, Brian & Marcus discuss how David's courage was rooted in his faith and belief that God was on his side, transforming fear into boldness.  As leaders, we must have this same boldness to face the giants in our lives.  

God uses those who feel the least. Join Greg & Brian as they discuss the biblical idea that God often uses people the world considers weak, foolish, or insignificant to accomplish His greatest purposes. 

 The life of Abraham is a great example of faithful obedience, a key principle of leadership. Perhaps that's what has been missing in our own lives. Marcus Misinec joins the podcast for a second time to talk about obedience and how it shapes our trust in God, influences our decisions as leaders, and impacts the people who follow us. Together, we explore what it means to step out in faith, even when the outcome is uncertain, and how obedience opens the door to God’s greater plan for our lives. 

Join Brian and Greg as they look to the first three chapters in the Bible to answer four BIG questions:  Who am I?  Why am I here? Why is the world the way it is?  &  Is there a cure for this broken world?

Where does trust fit into your life, and can you build relationships without it? Join Greg and special guest Marcus Misinic as they discuss the Story of TRUST.  

We’re excited to launch our new series, Flying Through The Bible, with a very special guest — Dustin Smith, CEO of Merrell Bros. and an experienced pilot. Join us as we take off on a journey through scripture and focus on life from God's perspective.  

Join us as we celebrate Employee Appreciation Week here at Merrell Bros. and sit down with Brayden Merrell to discuss what this week means to him and the Executive Team. 

Tune in to discover the '3 Keys' that unlock the doors of a great marriage or relationship.  

Host Greg Reed is joined by Merrell Brothers new Florida Life Coach, Kevin Murray. Kevin recounts how God "pursued" him like a lion and how that ultimately led him to decide to ask Jesus into his heart and follow Him.

The Bible makes it clear that when you die, you are going to one of two places.  So that begs the question:  What is Heaven, where is it, & how can I get there?  Join Greg and Brian as they answer these questions and share what the Bible says about Heaven. 

In life, we carry some heavy burdens, but we don't have to carry them alone.  In today's episode, we discuss what it means to partner with and find rest in the One who sees our struggles and feels our exhaustion.

Happy Father's Day, Dads!  Tune in to this special Father's Day edition of Solid Start, a podcast focusing on life from God's perspective.  

You may be thinking, "There has to be more to life than what I am experiencing right now." Join Greg and Brian as they discuss this 'thirst' for more. 

On our good days and bad, when walking on the mountaintop or in a valley, God is with you.  And when we genuinely seek Him through prayer, He listens and He answers. 

The BK lifestyle of 'having it your way', where 'you rule', can seem fine at first, but without Christ leading your life, it will ultimately end in darkness.  There are only two roads, two choices, where you will spend eternity.  Which road are you on?  

God has given us everything we need to live our best life, but sometimes we fail to see it or tap into that power.   Tune in this week to learn more about God's divine power and how this power can help us live in a crazy world.  

We all have the power to make this world a better place, but where or who gives us that power?  Tune in to today's episode as we discuss where that life-giving power comes from and how using this free power can change your life and those around you.  

Join Greg & Brian on this very special day, the 74th Annual National Day of Prayer.  

Did the resurrection of Jesus Christ really happen?  Join the investigation as Brian and Gred look to scripture to examine the evidence.  

Can I ever be made right with God, given all that I have done in my life?  Greg and Brian discuss what the Bible says about this question and more.  

How do we navigate our daily lives when there is so much uncertainty?  How do we handle challenging situations when they arise?  Join the discussion as Greg and Brian dive into answering these questions and more. 

We have all experienced hardships and times of feeling hurt physically and mentally.  Where is God in those moments, and why does He let us go through them?

Tune in to continue the conversation of what steps you can take to achieve your financial goals and security.

The book of Proverbs is full of wisdom, but what does it say about financial planning?  Karson Merrell joins the crew today to discuss ways to achieve financial freedom and how you can prepare for the future.   

Taking ownership of your attitude can drive effort and skill.  In this week's episode, Brian and Greg discuss the CAREER spoke of the wheel.  Are you happy where you are?  If not, perhaps you need a shift in your foundation rather than a new job. 

 If we want to prosper and attend to the needs of others, we must first put on our own oxygen masks.  Tune in this week as we discuss how & why taking care of yourself is an important step in Coming Alive In '25. 

Over the past few months, our Merrell Bros. employees and their families have experienced heartache, loss, and pain. Greg and Brian discuss the question that often arises during these times: "God, if you're so good, why do you let these things happen?"  Perhaps you have been asking this same question.  Listen to this short episode as we address the 'elephant in the room.'   

How much would you pay for a GPS App that could provide directions to a location where wisdom and knowledge are given to help you navigate life?  What if we told you it was FREE? 

Join Greg and Brian as they kickstart the conversation about how to live your best life in 2025. We will focus on seven areas, starting with mental health. 

Should we pray daily for those in authority and the leaders of our country regardless of who we did or did not vote for?  Let's see what the Bible says...

76% of people say they haven't lived the life they wanted to live.  Why is that?  This week, Greg and Brian introduce the 7 areas in life where we sometimes fall short leaving us feeling lost and confused.  

2025 is here!  What can I do to make 2025 the best year ever?  Be a part of the discussion as Greg and Brian recommend 4 questions to help get your year off to a Solid Start. 

A young woman said "Yes" and changed the world forever.  

It was over 200 years ago when "Silent Night" was first heard by Austrian villagers attending Christmas Eve mass in St. Nicholas Church in Oberndorf. What is the story and message behind one of the most beloved Christmas songs of all time?  A hymn that has been sung around the world in more than 300 languages.

Christmas music is now playing on the radio, in stores, and in our homes.  Have you stopped and truly listened to the lyrics of the classical Christmas hymns?  Over the next several episodes, Greg and Brian will dive into the lyrics of several holiday classics.

God's blessings are all around us, but at times, we simply seem to miss them.  It is easy to complain about life, but in Psalm 103, David lists the good things God is doing for him. Join us as we read through this psalm of thanksgiving.    

What is your destiny?  What is your purpose?  Why are you here on this planet?  Many will spend a lifetime searching for answers to these questions.  The answer has been with you this entire time.  Tune in to find out more.    

How are we supposed to live in a broken world? Do we give up, give in, or fight with words and actions?  Tune in to find out what Jesus has to say on this matter.    

No matter who is elected, the real problem with our country and the world today is HUMANS and there is only ONE who can change hearts.

The power of an opinion can divide families, friends, coworkers, and nations.  Tune in to this episode as Greg & Brian turn to the Book of Daniel for insight and wisdom on how to approach this year's election.   

As ELECTION DAY approaches, join Greg and Brian as they launch a new series diving into what God's Word says about what we owe the government.  

Terry Merrell joins the podcast to share how the evil one can act as a parasite, attaching himself to destroy and wreak havoc on your marriage, relationships, and your life.    

Where is God in the midst of all that is happening in our world today?  This is a tough question that has been asked for thousands of years.  Join Brian and Greg as they look to scripture and the Prophet Isaiah to help answer this question.  

The Holy Spirit was sent to help you achieve your fullest potential.  But how; how do I know He is working in my life? Tune in to find out more as Greg and Brian discuss the role of the Holy Spirit in your daily walk. 

Have you ever felt alone?  The truth is, you are NEVER alone.  The Holy Spirit wants to be a part of your life. He wants to help guide you through difficult times.  The bigger question is: are you letting Him?

What does it mean to let the Holy Spirit guide your life?  How do I know when He is speaking or nudging me to do something?  Is the Holy Spirit even real?  Join the discussion as Greg and Brian talk about personal life situations in which the Holy Spirit was very present and very real.   

Join Greg and Brian as they begin the series on WHO, WHAT, & HOW, the Holy Spirit can impact your life. 

One thing is for certain - there will be a moment in time when we will breathe our last breath.  On that day, followers of Jesus, gain everything and lose nothing. 

What do you know about the Holy Spirit?  Who is He?  What does He do?  Is He a real thing or just a ghostly figure?  Greg and Brian answer these questions and discuss how the Holy Spirit can help lead your life. 

How would your life be different if you were connected to the power of Jesus?  The power that he freely gives.  Be a part of the conversation today and find out how one moment in the lives of the disciples changed the world forever. 

Do you need to make a 180-degree turn in your life? It may be time to take a different approach and experience the far better life that Jesus has for you.

What??  Spoiler Alert: it doesn't stop there. 

Have you ever wondered 'why' Zacchaeus climbed the tree to see Jesus?  Join Brian and Greg as they explore this story of a little man with a big change of heart.  
 

Tune in as Greg tells the story of how one late-night meeting with the King changed the life of a man named Nicodemus.  

What does it mean to explore a relationship with God? Join Brian and Greg as they examine characters in the New Testament who went on their own journey to explore a relationship with Jesus. 

Join the conversation as Greg and Brian jump into the series of what it means to EXPLORE, EXPERIENCE, and EXPAND your relationship with King Jesus.

Book Reference:  How Good Is Good Enough?  - by Andy Stanley (Listen FREE on Audible.)

When we live our lives OUR WAY, we are missing out on the far better life Jesus has for us.  

How can you or anyone find peace when life takes a different direction? Join Brian and Greg as they discuss the importance of being part of the solution in the midst of struggles.

Get your week off to a SOLID START as Brian & Greg discuss how to find peace in your life each and every day.  

Join the conversation as Greg and Brian discuss finding peace WHEN trouble seems to find you.    

Things aren't the way you thought they would be??  Tune in this week as Greg and Brian discuss how to handle the times when things don't turn out the way we anticipated.  

Justin Ballinger joins the conversation today to share his story and how living a life for Jesus will set you path straight. 

Brayden Merrell joins us today to share his story of how strong mentors shaped his life and how one night with friends opened his eyes to eternity. 

 Ryne Birnell shares his story about being in a dark place several years ago and how a renewed relationship with Jesus changed his life. 

Our good friend Cody Barnes joins us today to share his story about how blindness tore his life apart and how Jesus met him in his darkest moment.  

Join us this morning as we welcome Dustin Smith to share his personal story of how one decision in one weekend changed his entire life. 

The average person has 4000 weeks in their lifetime.  When those weeks seem to fly by, are you living your best life by choosing to follow the King each day?

The world changed forever when Jesus took his last breath; giving us the opportunity to live a far better life than we could live on our own.

The Easter story can be a tough concept to understand.  How can something that happened over 2000 years ago impact your life today?  Tune in as we welcome Brad Breedlove to share his story.  

Have you made Jesus the king of your life?  Have you accepted His free gift of salvation?  Now is the time.  There may not be a tomorrow.   

Everyone has been invited to a dinner party.  But you have to decide which one you are going to attend.  

How are you managing the TIME, TALENTS, & TREASURES God has given you?  

If God has a plan for our lives, why do we often say, "Life is not fair!"

This parable covers two truths:  1) The time of harvest will come, where the good will be separated from the bad.  2) We are all going to die.   How can following Jesus give you hope when these 2 truths are a reality?

Great leaders unleash greatness in others through serving.  YOU are a leader in some capacity.  Do you have the desire to unleash greatness in the lives of those you influence?  

The only cure for our fatal disease - SIN - is Jesus Christ.  Are you willing to give up everything to experience the greatest of all joys - the Kingdom of Heaven? 

We discuss two parables relating to how something small can turn into something big with the possibility to change a life.   

Today we take a look at Jesus' explanation of the Parable of the Weeds and what it means to be good seeds planted among the thorns in this world.