Merril Hoge

17 years ago, I was diagnosed with cancer. On that day, chemo and dying consumed me, but I quickly found hope in those who had survived, and I continue to fight for those who did not! Feb 14th has helped me embrace life every day, not just the good days. #FindAWay every day!

I’ve been on the road a lot lately—and it’s reignited something in me. Not just the passion to speak and share my story, but a deeper appreciation for the people I get to meet along the way. Every conversation, every handshake, every story shared...it matters. You all inspire me. You re-energize me. You remind me why this work is so important. I’m grateful for each and every one of you. #findawayeveryday #inspiration #keepgoing #findyourpassion bit.ly/3PtUDLV

There’s something about being in the woods that brings everything back to center. Away from the noise, the chaos, and the constant movement—this is where I find peace. It’s where I can think clearly, reset, and just breathe. It’s been this way since I was a kid, and I’m grateful I’ve carried it with me into adulthood. Find your place. Protect your peace. That’s where clarity and strength are built.

Grateful for words like this from Tom Doherty Jr. after speaking at The Outlier Project in Rhode Island. Sharing the Find A Way message is about reminding people that resilience, positivity, and a can-do mindset still matter—especially when things get tough. I’m thankful for every opportunity to step into a room, share my story, and connect with people who are striving to grow and lead in their own way.

What an honor to spend time at the Chuck Noll Foundation for Brain Injury Research Symposium this past Friday at Acrisure Stadium. The opportunity to connect with some of the brightest minds in the field—and to witness firsthand the passion driving continued research, innovation, and education—was truly inspiring. There’s a shared commitment here to keep learning, keep pushing, and keep making progress. Grateful to be part of a mission that matters so deeply. #braininjuryresearch #findawayeveryday #chucknoll

Flashback to one of my favorite events—a fundraiser for pediatric cancer filled with energy, laughter, and incredible kids! Being around them reminded me how important it is to make the most of every moment. Their smiles, joy, and spirit are contagious, it’s impossible not to feel inspired. Life is short. Celebrate the wins, cherish the laughter, and make every day count. These kids are a powerful reminder of that. 🙌

Great companies are built by great people. I’m grateful to Wayne Briggs for the opportunity to speak to the team once again. Every time I’m with this group, the energy, passion, and commitment to helping others stand out. One of the most rewarding parts of what I do is listening after the talk, hearing how people plan to apply the message to their own life journey. That’s where real impact happens. Platinum’s mission to protect families in times of need is powerful and it’s clear in the people who lead and live it every day.

The NIL era has opened incredible opportunities for athletes—but opportunity alone doesn’t guarantee success. From my perspective, without some level of structure, guidance, and accountability, it’s hard to see these programs reaching their full potential. Talent and exposure are only part of the equation. Education, mentorship, and planning are what turn opportunity into lasting success. If we want NIL to benefit athletes in a meaningful, sustainable way, we need to pair freedom with framework. Otherwise, the path risks being more chaotic than productive.

Messages like this remind me why I do what I do. 🙌 Sharing my story and the Find A Way mindset is about helping people see what’s possible, especially when things feel impossible. Grateful to Linzy Elizabeth for these kind words and to everyone who has allowed me to be part of their event, their team, and their journey. #findawayeveryday #testimonial #motivation

We all want a better world. More kindness. More understanding. More respect. But it doesn’t begin somewhere else...it begins with us. If you want more kindness in the world, start by giving it. Small actions create powerful ripple effects. #findawayeveryday #morekindness #smallactions

Throwback to a few years ago in Indy for the NFL Combine with the great Bill Polian, his grandson, and Greg Olsen. The Combine has always been one of those special places where the future of the game comes into focus. Moments like this remind me how connected the football world really is. A lot of history, knowledge, and passion come together.

We lost a legend recently, Lou Holtz, a man who always emphasized commitment, discipline, and accountability. He taught us that success isn’t about “me,” it’s about showing up when it matters most, staying disciplined, and focusing on what really counts. Rest in peace, Lou. Your lessons on focus, leadership, and integrity will continue to inspire players, teams, and leaders alike. #inspiration #legend #findawayeveryday

Ever notice how worry drains more energy than the work itself? The truth is, we spend so much time thinking about what could go wrong that we forget how powerful action can be. When you shift your focus from worrying to working, everything changes. Progress replaces pressure. Confidence replaces doubt. Put your energy into the work. The results will follow.

Comfort does not build warriors. Growth doesn’t happen in ease. Hardship does. That’s why it’s so important to challenge yourself every day...whether it’s a difficult conversation, a new skill, a grueling workout, or stepping into the unknown. It’s in those hard moments that we grow, evolve, and become better versions of ourselves. #findawayeveryday #comfortzone #evolve

Throwing it back to guest bartending for the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh—what a fun night for an incredible cause! The energy in the room was amazing, the crowd was fantastic, and every moment reminded me why this work matters so much.

The excitement of this NFL season goes far beyond the scoreboard. Watching tape and being on this side of the game has shown me just how much effort, sacrifice, and toughness it truly takes. The margins are thin, the pressure is real, and the commitment is relentless and that’s what makes it great.

2026 isn’t about waiting for the path to appear. It’s about creating it—together. Let’s lead with purpose. Let’s live with intention. Let’s Find A Way. 👉 If your team is looking for a message on leadership, resilience, and mindset, I’d be honored to speak with your organization. Reach out at, loom.ly/GXt6whg

The 95th Loss Executives Association (LEA) Conference was an incredible experience. What a remarkable group of professionals who are truly committed to growth, excellence, and continuous improvement within the insurance industry. It was an honor to be part of the LEA Conference and to witness the passion this group brings—not only to their craft and profession, but to personal growth and helping others succeed. They are off to an outstanding start to 2026, and the future of this industry is in strong hands.

Thank you all for the kind birthday wishes. Truly grateful for another year around the sun. Every chapter brings new lessons, new challenges, and new opportunities to grow. Always learning, always moving forward, always finding a way. 🙌

Success doesn’t come from pointing fingers or making excuses. It comes when people are challenged to take ownership and do their part. When integrity becomes the standard, success follows—not just in words, but in action. That’s how you challenge people to think big and work bigger.

Find A Way goes beyond words. It reflects who we become at our best...resilient in adversity, resourceful under pressure, and committed to moving forward. That’s the standard for 2026. #thestandardisthestandard #findawayeveryday #newyear