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...
Purpose and Calling Series with New Coach Kristin Rowland Ep. 354
Welcome back to the Rock Solid Families podcast! In this episode, Linda Hutchinson gets the special opportunity to introduce one of our new network coaches: Kristin Rowland!!Â
Linda and Kristin talk about Kristin's story and how it ties into the month long theme of our purpose and calling in Christ.Â
Our team is expanding and we are grateful to announce Kristin along with our other coaches in the coming few weeks. Stay tuned to hear more about our other coaches as we introduce them!Â
To learn more about our coaches and how our tea...
The Purpose Myth That's Keeping You Stuck Ep. 353
Welcome to the Rock Solid Families Podcast! In this podcast, Linda Hutchinson and Andy Dalton introduce the new theme of the month of August - Purpose! This month's theme builds off the theme from last month, which was all about our identity in Christ. If you haven't had a chance to go check those episodes out, we encourage you to do so!Â
Linda and Andy go into detail for WHAT exactly our purpose is on this earth. It's clearly stated in scripture but they also use real life examples to help solidify God's plan for our lives. T...
Who is Shaping Your Child's Heart? Ep. 352
Welcome back to the Rock Solid Families podcast! Here is a bonus episode this month, since this is the 5th Monday of July. In this episode, Linda Hutchinson is joined by Andy Dalton to wrap up the monthly theme of July - Freedom and Identity.Â
Let me ask you this question: who or what is pouring into your child's heart? Is it social media? YouTube, Netflix, ESPN, Hulu, etc. You get the gist. If your child spends hours daily in front of a screen, there's a good chance your child is being poured into but not by t...
Breaking the Chains: Finding True Freedom in Christ Ep. 351
Are you battling things in your life that you just can't understand? Or are they chains weighing you down that you can't seem to shake off? If you or someone you know can answer yes to either of these questions then we encourage you to listen to this incredible podcast from Rock Solid Families! Â
Linda Hutchinson and Andy Dalton talk about how we can find freedom and identity in Jesus Christ and not in the world. These conversations are powerful and full of life - the life of Christ!Â
To learn more about Rock Solid Fa...
250 Years of Faith and Freedom: Learning from our Founding Fathers Ep. 350
Coming into Independence Day, Linda Hutchinson and Andy Dalton talk about the 250th birthday of the United States of America. They go into detail about how the Founding Fathers built America and how we as a nation need to make sure we stay on that foundation.Â
Thank you all for your support! Have a blessed 4th of July as you celebrate the 250th birthday of America!
To learn more about Rock Solid Families, go check out their website:Â https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/
Support the show
#Rocksolidfamilies, #familytherapy, #marriagecounseling, #parenting, #faithbasedcounseling, #couns...
Leading Our Families Well, Even Through Divorce Ep. 349
In this Rock Solid Families podcast, Andy Dalton hosts Amy Searcy. Amy Searcy is a family judge in the state of Ohio. She volunteers her time on this podcast and speaks upon her experiences personally as well as from her time as a judge.Â
Andy and Amy dive into the ugly side of divorce and the damaging effects to all members of the family. They also talk about different ways families can avoid divorce or stop it from happening. Also, Amy shares from her experiences how families can choose to lead well if they do decide to g...
Building a Legacy: The Power of Leadership and Discipleship in the Home Ep. 348
In this episode of the Rock Solid Families podcast, Linda Hutchinson is joined by Andy Dalton where they talk all about Leadership and Discipleship in the most important mission field: our homes!Â
During the month of June, Rock Solid Families is talking all about Leadership and Discipleship. Rock Solid Families has a ton of great material in store for the whole month of June. Don't forget to check out their other podcasts as well: Strong Dads and their newest podcast geared towards women - Women on Mission!Â
Also, for you Dads out there. If you wa...
Sacrifice from a Mother's Perspective Ep. 347
In this Rock Solid Families episode, Kimm Hackworth joins Jenna Helton to talk about sacrifice but from a mother's perspective.Â
Kimm's perspective of sacrifice comes from a mom who has adult children who are out of the home and about to get married. Jenna is at a completely different season of life where her children are still very young, so sacrifice for Jenna might be completely different than Kimm.Â
Listen to this podcast to gain valuable insight about sacrifice for mom's and how we can surrender no matter what season of life you are in.Â
Sacrifice: The Counter-Cultural Way of Life Ep. 346
In this Rock Solid Families podcast, Andy Dalton joins Kimm Hackworth to talk about what sacrifice is and how it looks in the day-to-day life of most people. They talk about how Jesus wants sacrifice as a way of life, even though that can be counter-cultural. Andy and Kimm also dive into sacrifice in relationships - not just in our marriages.
If you enjoyed this podcast, please go check out more of what Rock Solid Families is doing by going to their website:Â https://www.rocksolidfamilies.org/
Also, Rock Solid Families is teaming up with S...
Healing and Restoration with Kenda Moss Ep. 345
In this Rock Solid Families episode, Linda Hutchinson and Kimm Hackworth have a special guest with them - Kenda Moss! Kenda is the Executive Director of The Eve Center and she brings years of personal and practical experience working with women who've experienced trauma and abuse.
During this episode, you will hear about the hard road of recovery and forgiveness in dealing with trauma and abuse. We want you to know that healing and restoration is possible. If something stands out or triggers you in some way, please don't hesitate to reach out to Rock Solid Families...
The Great Exchange Ep. 344
In this Rock Solid Families episode, Linda Hutchinson and Andy Dalton talk about what Jesus did on the cross for all of us. The Great Exchange from our filthy rags for His robes of righteousness!Â
As Linda and Andy dive into how Jesus fulfilled the old law, they pose a great question as well as a hard challenge for each of us. Listen to the end of the podcast to hear what the question and challenge are!Â
Also, coming up on Mother's Day, Rock Solid Families is partnering with the Stronghold Restaurant Group to give aw...
Reckless Faith with Beth Guckenberger Ep. 343
In this Rock Solid Families episode, Kimm Hackworth interviews renown author and Co-Executive Director at Back2Back Ministries Beth Guckenberger!Â
Kimm and Beth spend time talking through Beth's faith journey and how faith shaped the writing of Beth's first book "Reckless Faith: Let Go and Be Led".Â
We hope you enjoy this show about how we can live more in our faith as we journey in this life and how each step brings us closer to God!
If you want to learn more about Rock Solid Families or Back2Back Ministries, please check ou...
Partnership Banquet Recap - 2026 Ep. 342
In this episode of Rock Solid Families podcast, Linda Hutchinson joins Andy Dalton to recap the 3rd Annual Rock Solid Families Partnership Banquet!Â
Linda and Andy dive into how the night went, and how the community goes above and beyond to support this ministry. They also talk about the client testimonials that were shared and much more!Â
If you want to learn more about Rock Solid Families or to hear these client testimonials, go to their website: rocksolidfamilies.org
Support the show
#Rocksolidfamilies, #familytherapy, #marriagecounseling, #parenting, #faithbasedcounseling, #counseling, #Strongdads, #coaching, #lifec...
Faith Over Fear Ep. 341
In this Rock Solid Families episode, Andy Dalton and Kimm Hackworth talk about their experience when dealing with the storms of life. They also dive into what the bible says about dealing with storms and how we can increase our faith in times of fear!Â
Also, if you are interested in joining Rock Solid Families at our 3rd annual Partnership Banquet, please reach out to one of us (andy@rocksolidfamilies.org or kimm@rocksolidfamilies.org) or you can go to this page to join us:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rock-solid-families-partnership-banquet-tickets-1980015671173?aff=oddtdtcreatorÂ
To...
Love - The Second Time Around Ep. 340
In this video about Love, Kimm and Matt Hackworth talk about how they were married, got divorced and then got married to each other. Kimm and Matt talk about how God can redeem situations like theirs even though they didn't feel like it.Â
For those of you who are divorced or a blended family, this podcast is great for you to check out!Â
If you want to know more about Rock Solid Families and their ministry, please visit rocksolidfamilies.org
Support the show
#Rocksolidfamilies, #familytherapy, #marriagecounseling, #parenting, #faithbasedcounseling, #counseling, #Strongdads, #coach...
Types of Love Ep. 339
In this episode of Rock Solid Families, Andy Dalton and his wife Katherine talk about 4 different types of love:
-Eros
-Philia
-Storge
-Agape
Andy and Katherine dive into these types of love and how people can apply them to their every day life.Â
If you like this episode, check out their website: rocksolidfamilies.orgÂ
If you're interested in joining their Batesville Families Rock sessions, sign up through this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfVg4gbI82oKQxT63wcmLvXea3UduoJyXa4-8-42MGpBWvG4w/viewform
To si...
Renewal with Christ - Ep. 338
Renewal with Christ - Ep. 338
Linda Hutchinson and co-host Kimm Hackworth discuss spiritual renewal as the new year begins.
The Theme of Renewal
Linda and Kimm aim to guide listeners in enhancing their relationships with God and setting an intentional rhythm for their spiritual lives. They emphasize that spiritual renewal can take various forms, often requiring intentionality and the need to create space away from the distractions of everyday life. The discussion begins by referencing Romans 12:2, warning against conforming to the world’s patterns and instead focusing on transformation through the renewing of the mind.
Renewal Begins with Breaking Free from the Patterns of this World - Ep. 337
Renewal is not about becoming new people as much as remembering who we already are in Christ.
Listen in as I read these words from the apostle Paul to the church in Rome. He was writing to the Romans but so much of it applies to us today as well.Â
Read Romans 12:1–2Â
Focus: Step 1 of renewal—stop conforming.
What Does “Conform to the Patterns of This World” Mean?
Ephesians 4 mentions some of the patterns of this world: In vs. 22 on down
You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to p...
Mission Of Christ - Ep 336
Introduction -
“If someone asked you, Why did Jesus come? How would you answer?”“And what does His mission have to do with your marriage, your parenting, your friendships?”Those aren’t just questions for each other here on today’s podcast. If you claim to follow this Jesus….It’s a question we ALL have to be ready to answer. 1 Peter 3:15 says “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason...Women on Mission - Ep. 335
In the latest episode of the RockSolid Families podcast host Linda Hutchinson and newcomer coach Kimm Hackworth engage in an empowering discussion about what it means to be a woman on a mission.Â
As Linda and Kimm dive into the topic, they reflect on the previous discussions from the Strong Dads podcast, which centered around men living with purpose. This leads to an exploration of how women, too, can embrace their missions in everyday life. Kimm shares her early misconceptions that being missional meant only participating in international trips, realizing instead t...
Break Through Your Depression with Thanks and Gratitude - Ep 334
Overall Prevalence of Depression
Current Depression Rate (Adults): The percentage of U.S. adults who report currently having or being treated for depression has exceeded 18% in recent measurement periods (2024-2025 data). This projects to an estimated 47.8 million Americans suffering from depression.
Warning Signs of Toxic Relationships - Ep 333
 Overview
In this episode of the RockSolid Families podcast, hosts Linda and Merrill Hutchinson discuss the complexities and dangers of toxic relationships, expanding from previous discussions on gaslighting to encompass various forms of toxic interactions. They emphasize the importance of recognizing unhealthy dynamics in relationships, be it with spouses, family members, coworkers, or friends.
Key Points
 Understanding Toxic Relationships
  - Toxic relationships are characterized by patterns of behavior that diminish or harm individuals' well-being.
  - Common forms include controlling behavior, chronic criticism, lack of empathy, gaslighting, and emotional manipulation.
  - Relation...
Halloween - What to do as a Parent? Ep 332
Main Topic: Halloween and Spiritual Awareness
•The podcast’s main focus is on Halloween, exploring whether to celebrate it or not and what spiritual implications it may have.
•Merrill and Linda reflect on their upbringing, noting they didn’t grow up with a strict stance on Halloween, viewing it as just a time for trick-or-treating.
Key Points Discussed
1.Cultural Desensitization:
•The hosts express concern about how society has normalized horror, violence, and gruesomeness, particularly in entertainment.
•They emphasize the importance of awareness regarding the messages conveyed through horror films and other media.
2...
Rock Solid Families Introduces Kimm Hackworth to the Team - Ep 331
 RockSolid Families Podcast Episode
Introduction
The episode kicks off with Merrill and Linda Hutchinson expressing their gratitude to Maxwell Construction for their sponsorship of the podcast, emphasizing the importance of reliable construction for homes and businesses. They highlight their commitment to building stronger families and invite listeners to consider Maxwell for their next projects.
Emotional Celebration
Merrill reveals a recent emotional experience, sharing that he and Linda hosted a celebration for RockSolid Families, which unexpectedly turned into a surprise retirement party for him. The night was filled with joy, tears, and r...
Rock Solid Families Getting Back to Work! Our first show since Merrill’s cancer diagnosis. Ep 330
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. Befo...
My World Just Flipped - Glioblastoma - Ep 329
My World Just Flipped - Glioblastoma - Ep 329
In this heartfelt YouTube video, Merrill Hutchinson, the host of RockSolid Families and Strong Dads, shares a personal update about his health journey. The video serves as both an introduction to his current situation and a reflection on life’s deeper meanings amidst adversity.
Key Points and Flow:
1. Introduction and Context:
• Merrill welcomes viewers and explains why he is combining two shows into one episo...
Finding Your People In A Lonely World - Ep 328
Finding Your People In A Lonely World - Ep 328
Overview
In this episode of the Rocksolid Families podcast, hosts Linda Hutchinson and Merrill discuss the pressing issue of loneliness in today’s society, despite the increased connectivity through technology and social media. They emphasize the importance of building genuine relationships and finding one’s “people” to combat feelings of isolation.
Key Points
1.The Importance of Connection:
•Loneliness is prevalent even with the ascendance of digital communication.
•Many people work from home and rely on online services, leading to disconnection from their c...
Are We Being Punished By The Storms We Face? Ep 327
Are We Being Punished By The Storms?Â
Background -Â
As we have tuned into the news over the past week, we have seen incredible tragedy from the storms and flooding across Texas, New Mexico, and up the eastern part of the country. In the meantime, we hear about the growing wildfires sweeping across California and the Northwest. These days, it seems like no one is safe or spared from the storms. I’ve heard all kinds of reasons and thoughts behind these events. “God is punishing us”, “Climate change is real”, “W...Get to Know Andy Dalton - New Men's Coach to Rock Solid Families - Ep 326
Get to Know Andy Dalton - New Men's Coach to Rock Solid Families - Ep 326
Overview
This episode of the Rocksolid Families podcast features the introduction of new coach Andy Dalton, who joins hosts Linda Hutchinson and Merrill. The discussion centers around the mission of Rocksolid Families to support and strengthen families within the community, emphasizing relational capital and the importance of men’s roles in family dynamics.
Key Points
1.Introduction of Andy Dalton:
•Andy brings a strong background in coaching and education, having worked with high school and college foot...
Should Christians Meditate? Prayer and Meditation that fills your mind and empties the noise. - Ep 325
Difference Between Prayer and Meditation
Prayer is generally understood as communicating with God. It's a two-way conversation, where you speak to God (through requests, thanks, confessions, adoration) and also listen for His response. Prayer is often outwardly focused, expressing thoughts, feelings, and desires to a divine being. It can be spontaneous, structured, vocal, or silent.
Meditation, in a broader sense, is about focused attention and internal observation. While its specific practices vary widely across cultures and spiritual traditions, the common thread is to quiet the mind, increase awareness, and gain clarity. Some forms of...
A Grace Filled Conversation on Homosexuality - Ep 324
Key Takeaways from the Rocksolid Families Podcast on Homosexuality
Introduction
•Hosts Linda and Merrill Hutchinson discuss the sensitive topic of homosexuality in a grace-filled manner.
•They draw insights from the book “People to Be Loved” by Preston Sprinkle, emphasizing the importance of approaching the topic with love, humility, and biblical truth.
Main Themes Discussed
1.Respecting Individuals:
•Both hosts stress the importance of recognizing the person behind the label. Regardless of one’s sexual orientation, everyone deserves love and respect.
2.Diversity vs. Similarity:
•The podcast highlights the need to celebrate h...
Graduation - Now What? Parenting after graduation. Ep 323
Now that the graduation ceremony is over and the party is cleaned up, what’s next for you as the parent?Â
In past shows, we have discussed the Seasons of Parenting -Â Season 1 - Service, Season 2 - Leadership, Season 3- Mentor, Season 4- Friend/Counsel. This time of graduation may very well be marking the movement into a new season, so what does it look like?Â
Ecc. 3:1 says there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.Â
This transition isn't about letting go completely, but rather about shifting your grip...
Should We Bring Kids into this Dark World? Ep 322
Should We Have Kids in a Dark World?
Big Questions:
 Is it wise or faithful to bring children into a world filled with suffering, evil, and uncertainty?
Am I making life decisions from faith or fear?
“Many Christians today are wrestling with fear, disillusionment, and sorrow over the state of the world.”
Common concerns: evil, school shootings, cultural decline, financial uncertainty, environmental decay
Affirm that this is a valid and deeply emotional question.
2. Why Are People Afraid to Have Children Today?Â
List cultural and global concerns
Don't Forget Your Grandparents - What role did they play in your life? Ep 321
Background -Â
The role of Grandparents has changed over the years. It used to be a clear separation between their generation, their kids, and the grandkids.
How did the roles get mixed up? There are many possible answers to this but here are some of the more common reasons that we see in our office.Â
Parents are not present or available so the grandparents have no choice but to step in and raise the child.Parents need more than a little help in raising their children. Many families have both parents working and they still re...Creating Comfort in Difficult Times with Your Kids - Ep 320
In this episode of the Rocksolid Families podcast, hosts Linda Hutchinson and her husband discuss the importance of emotional comfort for children. They emphasize the role of parents, caregivers, and educators in providing this comfort, especially during challenging emotional moments. The hosts set the stage for a conversation about how emotional comfort can significantly impact a child’s long-term emotional health.
•Definition: Emotional comfort is described as the support and reassurance that parents and caregivers provide to children when they are experiencing intense emotions, such as sadness, anger, or frustration.
•Import...
Working Through Unmet Expectations - Ep 319
Introduction
In this episode Merrill and Linda Hutchinson discuss the theme of unmet expectations in life and how to process disappointment. They reflect on personal experiences, share insights from their family and work, and provide faith-based guidance on navigating life’s challenges.
Segment 1: Personal Reflections and Introduction to Unmet Expectations
•Theme Introduction: The hosts emphasize that everyone encounters unmet expectations, whether in relationships, careers, or personal goals. They highlight that chasing happiness is often futile; instead, cultivating a spirit of joy and contentment is essential.
Segment 2: The Reality of D...
Rigidity vs Spontaneity in the Marriage - Flexibility = Love - Ep 318
Summary of Flexibility = Love
•Rigidity: The tendency to adhere strictly to rules, routines, and predictability.
•Spontaneity: The inclination to seek excitement and adventure without prior planning.
•Flexibility: The ability to adapt and find a balance between rigidity and spontaneity.
Importance of Understanding Differences
Merrill points out that understanding one’s own personality traits is crucial for improving marital dynamics. He discusses how rigidity can lead to anxiety due to a fear of losing control, while spontaneity can result in feelings of resentment when life feels too boxed in or constrained.
Benefits and Draw...
Giving Your Kids to God - Girl Power Half Hour - Ep 317
Giving Your Kids to God
The Story of Hannah (8:30 - 20:15)
•Jenna shares her background on Hannah, recalling her experiences from a Bible study that highlighted Hannah’s struggles with infertility and her deep prayer life.
•Hannah, one of two wives of Elkanah, faced ridicule from her co-wife, Peninnah, who bore children while Hannah could not.
•In her desperation, Hannah made a heartfelt promise to God: if He gave her a son, she would give him back to the Lord.
•After giving birth to Samuel, she fulfilled her vow by dedicating him to God by lea...
Can You and Your Spouse Have Difficult Conversations? Ep 316
Can You and Your Spouse Have Difficult Conversations?
•The discussion centers around the difficulties couples face when having hard conversations, especially those filled with tension.Â
Importance of Safe Spaces
•Creating Emotional Safety: The need for a safe emotional environment within a relationship, where both partners feel secure enough to share their feelings without fear of being attacked or dismissed.
•Common Issues: Reasons why conversations might not feel safe, including past trauma, fears of anger, and emotional unavailability.
•Distinction Between Peacekeepers and Peacemakers: Linda emphasizes the difference; peacekeepers avoid conflict while peacemakers address issues wi...
The Doubting Parent - Stop the second-guessing! Ep 315
In this episode of the Rock Solid Family Podcast, hosts Merrill and Linda Hutchinson explore parental doubt and the pressures modern parents face due to societal expectations, particularly with younger children. They aim to offer understanding, reassurance, and strategies for those often second-guessing their decisions.
**The Nature of Doubt in Parenting**
Parents experience emotional ups and downs, questioning their choices due to the pressure to be perfect fueled by social media. Merrill discusses how parenting styles differ between firstborn and later-born children, suggesting that firstborns often receive more cautious parenting, leading to increased confidence over time.<...
