The Do Life Well Podcast

E22 - Raising the Standard: You're Capable of More Than You ThinkAt 19, Gary Rowan knew he was going nowhere. He walked into a Marine Corps recruiting office and asked, "How soon can I go?" They said Friday. Same week.Five years as a Marine K-9 handler taught him something that changed everything: anything the person to his left or right could do, he could do. And if he tried harder, he could do it better.Now he runs Wild Boar Land Management, raises two kids with his wife Brittany, runs 60-80 miles a week training for the Boston Marathon, and gets up at 4am to do it all over again.In this conversation, we talk about:Why he joined the Marines to change his circumstancesWhat boot camp revealed about what he was capable ofBuilding a business one "yes" at a timeThe cost of choosing comfortWhy easy is poisonGratitude as the antidote to stressRaising kids to be tough but kindWhy there are no secrets - just doing the work"Planning without action is just procrastination with a notebook."If you're a man who knows you're capable of more but keeps making excuses, this one's for you.

Tax season is here—and whether you love it or dread it, this conversation is one you need to hear.In this episode, I sit down with Tim Dame, a CPA in Valdosta with 43 years of experience, to break down what everyday people need to know about taxes in 2026 and beyond. We cover the Big Beautiful Bill and what actually changed, no tax on tips and overtime (and the fine print nobody's talking about), Georgia income tax updates, when you actually need a CPA vs. TurboTax, and how to think about taxes as stewardship, not just a burden.But this episode goes way beyond numbers. Tim shares how his son's life was saved at South Georgia Medical Center—and how that moment led him to serve on the hospital board for the past decade. We talk about faith, fear, finances, and what it really looks like to stop trying to control everything and let God lead.If you've been avoiding your taxes or your finances, this is the episode to help you take that first step.🎧 Listen now and share with someone who needs to hear this.

In this New Year's episode, host Gavin Merwin sits down with Dr. Ken Register, a chiropractor with nearly 30 years of experience, to explore what true health really means—and why it matters.Dr. Ken shares his blueprint for physical wellness: quality sleep, real foods, proper hydration, vitamins and supplements, movement, and spinal alignment. But beyond the practical advice, he connects it all back to a deeper purpose—honoring God by taking care of the body He's given us.Together, they discuss why short-term goals like "losing 10 pounds by summer" fall short compared to a long-term vision of playing with your grandkids at 70. Dr. Ken explains how he and his wife Staci have instilled these values in their four children, the power of functional fitness, and why your "why" determines whether you'll stick with healthy habits past the third week of January.Whether you're looking to start the new year strong or simply want a fresh perspective on wellness, this conversation offers both practical steps you can take today and the motivation to keep going for the long haul.

As we wrap up 2025 and head into 2026, I wanted to take a moment to say THANK YOU for an incredible year of conversations.This year we covered:Nutrition & Macros with Kristin TannerMarriage Fundamentals with Jess MerwinMindset & Making Your Own Luck with Carla WarlowPersonal Finance (Parts 1 & 2) with John TannerMentorship with Dr. Eric McFeeFasting with Hunter HudginsRaising Daughters with Matt & Nikki ThomasMental Health with Liza Tillman & Amanda RamsheadFaith, Politics & Identity with Mike DowGenerosity & Community with Michael SmithPlus a special episode with my 5-year-old, Emma Claire!This recap episode features snippets from every episode - a highlight reel of the wisdom, practical advice, and real conversations that made this year so special.My prayer is that you found value in these conversations and that you'll continue to join me and my guests in 2026 as we keep doing life well together.Have a blessed holiday season. See you next year.🔗 Subscribe and follow for new episodes monthly#DoLifeWell #Podcast #YearInReview #2025 #Faith #Family #Finance #Health #Mindset #Community

As we head into the holidays, it’s easy to feel weighed down by headlines, higher costs of living, and the sense that our communities are more disconnected than ever. In this episode, Gavin sits down with Michael Smith, CEO of the Greater Valdosta United Way and newly elected Lowndes County Commissioner, to talk about why our neighbors need us now more than ever—and how even small acts of generosity can change a life.Michael shares his journey from private business to leading a regional United Way, the reality behind working families living with little margin, and how tools like the ALICE report and the 988 mental health line reveal what people are really facing. They dig into the decline in volunteering after COVID, the unique pressures on South Georgia families, and why loving where you live means getting involved, not waiting on “someone else” to fix it.If you’ve ever wondered, “Does my $10 a month, a few hours of volunteering, or serving on a local board really matter?”—this conversation is for you. You’ll walk away with practical ways to give, serve with your family, support your local church and nonprofits, and bring real hope to your community this holiday season and beyond.

In this powerful and timely conversation, Gavin sits down with Pastor Michael Dow of Habitation Church to explore what it truly means to live as a Christian in today’s political climate. With local elections on the horizon, they unpack how believers can engage in civic life without losing sight of their ultimate allegiance—to Christ and His Kingdom.Together, they discuss the tension between faith and politics, the difference between being in the world but not of it, and how to navigate complex cultural conversations with truth, love, and integrity. From the importance of raising image-bearers (our children) to the biblical call to be ambassadors and bridge builders, this episode challenges listeners to think deeply about identity, representation, and the eternal hope found in Jesus—not in any political party or policy.If you’ve ever wrestled with how to balance your faith with civic responsibility, or how to stand for truth without adding to division, this episode will equip and encourage you to build bridges, not walls.🎧 Tune in to learn how to approach politics through a Kingdom lens and live as a faithful witness in a polarized world.

In this special joint episode, the Do Life Well Podcast teams up with Southwell Medical’s Live Well With Southwell podcast to tackle an issue that impacts us all—mental health.Host Gavin Merwin sits down with Liza Tillman, Public Relations Director at Southwell and host of Live Well With Southwell, along with Amanda Ramshead, Behavioral Health Service Line Director at Southwell. Together, they dive into what it means to care for your mental health in today’s noisy, always-on world.From breaking down stigmas and sharing personal experiences, to exploring therapy, medication, and practical lifestyle tips like exercise, sleep, and gratitude—this conversation is packed with honest insights and encouragement. Whether you’ve been considering therapy, want strategies for daily wellness, or just need a reminder that you’re not alone, this episode offers wisdom and hope.🎙️ Tune in for a thoughtful dialogue on how we can all navigate life’s challenges, quiet the noise, and embrace mental wellness as part of doing life well.

Raising Daughters in a Loud World — Gavin and Jess sit down with Matt & Nikki Thomas to talk about building a Christ-centered home for girls in an age of constant noise. They unpack the power of a united marriage, the unique gifts dads and moms speak into their daughters (identity, security, nurture, wisdom), and the rhythms that keep a family grounded—like their annual “Family Selah,” a set-apart time to pause, pray, and reconnect. Expect plenty of practicals too: age-appropriate steps into social media (with tight guardrails and a firm “no” on Snapchat), clear boundaries for devices, and everyday ways to train kids to hear God’s voice over culture’s. It’s grace-filled, real-life parenting—equal parts conviction and encouragement for girl dads and strong moms.

Gavin welcomes friend & colleague Hunter Hudgins for a candid look at fasting. They begin by defining it in its simplest form—abstaining from food—and reminding listeners that, biblically, it’s expected of believers “when you fast, not if.”Drawing on Gavin’s recent 24-hour liquid-only fast, the duo describe the mix of mental struggle and the “super-natural grace” that often meets those who choose temporary hunger to sharpen focus on God and personal growth.Hunter breaks down how fasting disciplines both body and spirit—quieting distractions (even social media), cultivating humility, and delivering well-documented health benefits. They stress starting small (intermittent or single-day fasts), hydrating well, and building capacity gradually instead of jumping straight into an extended fast.If you’re curious about weaving fasting into a busy modern life—or why embracing hard things is key to “doing life well”—this episode offers real-world stories, practical tips, and plenty of encouragement to give it a try.

Episode 14 · “Chocolate Gardens & Unicorn Workouts: Emma Claire’s Guide to Doing Life Well”What happens when a five-year-old with a chocolate obsession and a vivid imagination hijacks Dad’s microphone? Pure, pint-sized wisdom—plus a few belly laughs. In this father-daughter special, Gavin lets Emma Claire steer the conversation and remind us why Jesus said to have faith like a child.Rapid-fire favorites: pastel-purple everything and a dream of “walking through a garden of chocolate”Story time: a horn-pumping unicorn that crushes CrossFit WODs and still finds time for burpeesKid-sized theology: Emma explains the Easter story in her own wordsLife advice: why the “Do Life Well” podcast exists—straight from EC’s heartCourage hack: pretend Mommy’s right beside you when things get scaryWhether she’s planning what to buy with $1,000 in sweets or telling Dad how to live on purpose, Emma Claire proves that big truths can come in small packages. Hit play for twelve minutes of delight, perspective, and a reminder that our little people are always watching how we “do life well.”Rate, review, and share if Emma Claire made you smile—then go find your own chocolate garden today.

In this powerful episode, Gavin sits down with Dr. Eric McFee, Superintendent of Grady County Schools, to unpack why mentorship isn’t just helpful — it’s essential. With over 35 years of experience in education, Dr. McFee shares his personal journey, the impact of mentors in his life, and how mentorship shows up in both leadership and everyday interactions.From defining what true mentorship looks like, to exploring ego, humility, and the lens through which we experience life, Gavin and Dr. McFee discuss how mentorship can be a game-changer — whether you’re a student, a leader, or someone simply trying to do life well. They talk about the different types of mentors (some lifelong, some seasonal), the value of listening over advising, and how being mentored and mentoring others is a two-way street.Whether you’re seeking guidance, offering it, or just trying to figure out what mentorship can look like in your world, this episode is packed with insight, practical wisdom, and inspiration to pursue growth through meaningful relationships.

Welcome back to The Do Life Well Podcast! In this episode, we’re diving into Part 2 of our Fundamentals of Personal Finance series with my good friend, John Tanner. If you haven’t listened to Part 1, I highly recommend going back to last month’s episode before jumping in here.In this episode, we get into the practical side of personal finance—covering key topics like:✅ Renting vs. Owning a Home – Is buying always the right move?✅ Mortgage Strategies – The power of a 15-year mortgage vs. a 30-year mortgage✅ The Role of Insurance – How to protect yourself without becoming “insurance poor”✅ Investing & Wealth Building – How compound interest works and why starting early matters✅ Understanding Credit Scores – What impacts your score and how to build solid credit✅ Boosting Your Income – Increasing your value in the marketplace to create financial freedomThis episode is packed with real-world insights and actionable strategies to help you take control of your finances and make smart money moves. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to fine-tune your financial plan, this conversation will give you practical steps to move forward with confidence.If you enjoy the episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who could use a financial boost!🔗 Follow the podcast for more insights on fatherhood, business, health, and doing life well.#DoLifeWell #PersonalFinance #WealthBuilding #FinancialFreedom

Money is one of the most powerful tools we have—when used wisely. In this episode of The Do Life Well Podcast, Gavin Merwin is joined by wealth advisor John Tanner to dive into the fundamentals of personal finance. They break down the importance of mindset, cash flow, budgeting, and living within your means while sharing personal strategies for financial success.John, with 24 years in the financial services industry, shares his insights on how to build a strong financial foundation, avoid common money pitfalls, and shift your perspective on wealth. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, employee, or just getting started, this conversation will challenge and inspire you to think differently about money.This is Part 1 of a two-part series—stay tuned for Part 2, where we get into practical steps and actionable strategies to apply these principles in your own life.👉 If you’re ready to take control of your finances, hit play and start the journey toward financial freedom!💡 Found value in this episode? Leave a review, subscribe, and share it with a friend!#PersonalFinance #MoneyMindset #FinancialFreedom #DoLifeWell

In this episode of The Do Life Well Podcast, Gavin sits down with his longtime coach, Carla Warlow, to explore the idea that luck isn’t random—it’s created. They dive into the power of mindset, preparation, and daily habits that position you for success when opportunity knocks.🔹 Is luck real, or do we create it?🔹 How small daily choices lead to big wins🔹 The difference between confidence and arrogance🔹 The “Just Let Them” philosophy and how it frees your energy🔹 The myth of being “self-made”—why community and mentorship are essential🔹 Practical steps to start making your own luck todayCarla shares game-changing coaching insights on overcoming self-doubt, building confidence, and attracting opportunities that align with your goals. If you’re ready to take control of your future and cultivate a mindset of abundance and resilience, this episode is for you.📩 Connect with Carla Warlow: www.carlawarlow.com/🔔 Don’t forget to:👍 Like & Subscribe for more episodes💬 Drop a comment with your biggest takeaway📢 Share this with someone who needs a mindset shift!🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platforms.#DoLifeWell #MindsetMatters #SuccessHabits #Coaching #Motivation #GrowthMindset

Episode Title: A Love That Lasts – Building a Healthy Marriage In this special Valentine’s episode of The Do Life Well Podcast, Gavin is joined by his wife, Jess, for a heartfelt conversation about marriage, love, and the lessons they’ve learned from nearly two decades together. From middle school sweethearts to building a life with two kids, they share personal stories, practical advice, and biblical principles on communication, faith, finances, and keeping the spark alive. Whether you’re newly married or years into your journey, this episode is packed with wisdom, laughter, and real talk about what makes a marriage thrive. 🎧 Tune in and get inspired to build a love that lasts!

Ready to kickstart your journey to better health? Join Gavin Merwin and nutrition coach Kristen Tanner as they break down practical, easy-to-follow steps for improving your nutrition, fitness, and mindset. From understanding macros to building balanced habits, this episode is packed with tips to help you feel stronger, healthier, and more confident—all without the overwhelm.Connect with Kristen on Instagram at @kristintanner_fitandwell or via email at kristytanner@gmail.com.

Episode 7: Living a Generous Life Guest: Terry Moore, CEO of The YOSS Platform In this special holiday episode, Gavin Merwin welcomes Terry Moore to discuss the significance of living a generous life and why generosity is a cornerstone of doing life well. Through personal anecdotes and faith-based insights, they explore how generosity can transform not just individuals but entire communities. Key Takeaways: • Sowing and Reaping: Generosity is a seed that yields a harvest over time, whether through time, kindness, or finances. • Overcoming Challenges: Terry shares his journey from a challenging upbringing to building a purpose-driven life focused on giving back. • Teaching Generosity: The importance of modeling and teaching generosity to children and empowering others to give, regardless of their resources. • Stewardship and Trust: Living a generous life aligns with good stewardship and builds trust in God’s provision. • Leaving a Footprint: Generosity is about leaving a meaningful impact on others and living in community. Memorable Quote: “Prosperity is defined not by what we have but by what we give away.” Call to Action: As we approach the Christmas season, reflect on ways you can live generously—whether through your time, resources, or relationships. Thank you for tuning in to the Do Life Well Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might need encouragement today. Until next time, continue the journey of doing life well.

In this episode of The Do Life Well Podcast, Gavin Merwin and guest John Tanner dive into the transformative power of right thinking. They explore how your mindset shapes your reality and how taking control of your thoughts can unlock growth in every area of life—whether in faith, family, or business. Tune in for practical insights on cultivating a positive mindset, the importance of mentorship, and taking small, powerful steps toward living life well.

In this episode of "The Do Life Well Podcast," host Gavin Merwin and one of his best friends, Stanton Moore, Senior Pastor at Burn Culture Church, dive into the profound impact of community on personal and spiritual growth. They explore the idea that humans are wired for connection, drawing from both biological insights and biblical wisdom. Discover how "iron sharpens iron" and why a healthy, supportive community is essential for shaping us into the people we’re meant to be. Tune in for a conversation that will inspire you to seek deeper connections and embrace the power of doing life well within a community.

Episode 4: Marriage & Fatherhood: It’s Not About Us In this heartfelt episode of the Do Life Well Podcast, Gavin Merwin sits down with his longtime friend, John Sims, to explore the essential elements of marriage and fatherhood. Together, they dive into the challenges and rewards of building a strong foundation in marriage, leading with love, and raising children with a kingdom perspective. With personal stories, wisdom, and practical advice, they discuss how God uses marriage to shape us, the importance of communication and transparency, and why it’s crucial to focus on something bigger than ourselves. Whether you’re newly married, a seasoned parent, or just looking for inspiration on doing life well, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement. Tune in as Gavin and John remind us that in marriage and fatherhood, it’s not about us—it’s about the legacy we build and the impact we have on future generations.