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December 10, 2024 41 mins

Merril Hoge, a former NFL running back and ESPN broadcaster, shares his extraordinary journey of resilience and personal growth in this episode of my One Big Thing Podcast.

Our discussion centers around Hoge's life philosophy encapsulated in the phrase "Find a way," which has been his guiding mantra since he was twelve years old.

Through personal anecdotes, Hoge reveals how this philosophy propelled him through challenges such as a career-ending injury, severe depression, and a cancer diagnosis that required extensive treatment.

You will be drawn into Hoge's world, where he emphasizes the importance of taking ownership of one’s circumstances rather than succumbing to victimhood. He illustrates that the act of taking ownership is essential for personal happiness and success, encouraging listeners to confront their own challenges head-on.

Through Hoge's experiences, the audience learns that life’s adversities can often lead to unexpected paths and opportunities, shaping us into who we are meant to be.

Takeaways

  • Merril Hoge emphasizes the importance of taking ownership of your life choices and actions.
  • You must actively engage with your circumstances instead of blaming others to find peace and happiness.
  • Every setback can be a setup for a comeback if you approach it with the right mindset.
  • Daily routines can help you maintain mental control and clarity in difficult situations.
  • Visual reminders of your goals can inspire action and help you stay focused on your journey.
  • You can either let your mind control you, or you can take charge of your thoughts.

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About Merril

Merril played in the NFL for eight seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chicago Bears; he was also a football analyst for ESPN for 21 years.

Hoge is an inspirational speaker who speaks nationwide, impacting people and companies to grow through self-reflection and taking action to Find Their Way.

He is also on the Chuck Noll Foundation for Brain Injury Research board and a member of the NFL Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Committee.

In 2018, Hoge helped launch Your Call Football and is the author of Find a Way: Three Words That Changed My Life and Brainwashed: The Bad Science Behind CTE and the Plot to Destroy Football.

Hoge continues to find new ways to make a positive impact with his mind, heart, and energy.

Whether through his educational work, advocacy, or motivational engagements, he is a force for positive change and inspiration.

Chapter Markers

00:00 - Introduction

04:28 - Finding a Way: Merrill Hodge's Journey

12:18 - Taking Ownership of Your Life

20:03 - The Struggles of Everyday Life

26:43 - Creating a New Chapter in Life

36:27 - Finding Your Best Self

Listen to the One Big Thing on your favorite platform at https://pod.link/1689287620

You can watch all episodes on my YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@stevecampbellpr

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I'd also love for you to subscribe to this podcast and leave a rating and review. You can leave a review at https://ratethispodcast.com/onebigthing

Thanks to one of my show sponsors! 💪🏼 Are you looking to get in the best shape of your life? Get Shred. Shred is an app software you can download to get curated workouts built just for you! You can get 20% off the monthly or annual charge by using my promo link at

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