Episode Maxim

"Purpose doesn’t end when you take off the uniform—find your next mission."

Episode Summary

In this episode of The Gun Experiment, Big Keith and I sit down with retired Green Beret and motorsports competitor, Nick Merrick. After a career built on strategic thinking and resilience in Special Forces, Nick Merrick decided to channel that same drive into motorsports—founding Green Beret Racing as a way to help fellow veterans rediscover purpose through competition. We dive into his military experiences, the transition to civilian life, why competition is key to wellness, and how racing parallels operating in high-pressure environments. Plus, we explore what it means to build a supportive community for veterans beyond service and the wild story behind lifted Crown Vics racing for the Battle of the Branches.

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Show Sponsors

Special thanks to tonight’s sponsors:

OnSite Firearms Training (OFT) – Top-notch instructors who keep your skills sharp. Find a class near you at OFTllcUS.
Modern Gun Trade School – Turn your passion for firearms into a career with flexible, online assignments. Learn more at MGS Edu.

Key Takeaways

Trust and teamwork are fundamental both in Special Forces and racing—put people in positions that let them succeed and empower them.
Competitive hobbies (racing, jiu jitsu, marathons) give veterans purpose and drive, helping with the transition to civilian life.
The ability to push past comfort and face adversity is what sets operators apart, but it’s also what helps anyone grow.
Veterans benefit from organizations that let them choose their path to wellness—competition, camaraderie, and having a mission matter.
Green Beret Racing is evolving beyond motorsports, introducing the Battle of the Branches and aiming for nationwide reach across all first responder communities.

Guest Information

Nick Merrick

Founder of Green Beret Racing, retired Army Special Forces warrant officer, and veteran outreach leader. Through Green Beret Racing, Nick creates opportunities for veterans to reclaim purpose, community, and challenge—whether it’s through off-road racing, competitions, or simply having something to wake up for.

Learn more: greenberetracing.org
Find Nick on Instagram, YouTube, Facebook: Green Beret Racing
Contact: nick@greenberetracing.org

Keywords

Green Beret Racing, Special Forces, Nick Merrick, veteran transition, motorsports, Battle of the Branches, purpose after military, competitive hobbies, team leadership, gun training, wellness for veterans, jiu jitsu, accountability, military career, desert racing, non-profit veteran programs, firearms podcast, The Gun Experiment, resilience, camaraderie, adaptive challenges, mental health veterans, transition advice, OnSite Firearms Training, Modern Gun Trade School