Category: health

Kylie Bisutti: Choosing Jesus Over Fame

WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart talked with Kylie Bisutti, former Victoria’s Secret model, ahead of her appearance at Tragedy Into Triumph at Mount Vernon Nazarene University on Monday, November 2nd!

Click HERE or on the picture link below to hear the full conversation!

Kylie shares her journey of choosing a relationship with Jesus Christ over fame and the challenges she faced with identity, shame, and the pressures of the modeling industry. She also discusses how God used difficult seasons in her life to redirect her path and help her discover her true identity in Christ.

Today, Kylie serves as a motivational speaker, sharing her testimony and encouraging others who may be struggling with eating disorders, identity issues, and the pressure of living up to the world’s expectations. She hopes attendees at Tragedy Into Triumph will be reminded that their circumstances and past do not define them. Instead, true peace, value, and identity are found in Jesus Christ.

Click HERE to see information about the Tragedy into Triumph event!

0

Ways Christians Can Improve Their Mental Health

October is Mental Health Month and taking care of mental health is just as important as caring for physical and spiritual well-being.

In an article by Crosswalk.com, Ryan Duncan encourages Christians to recognize that stress, anxiety, and depression are not personal flaws or signs of weak faith. The article shares practical ways to support mental well-being, including prayer, journaling, reading Scripture, practicing gratitude, eating well, exercising, and getting enough rest.

Duncan also emphasizes the importance of leaning on a Christian community, using God-given spiritual gifts, and seeking professional help when needed. Christians do not have to face their struggles alone, and reaching out to a doctor or licensed therapist is nothing to be ashamed of. Through faith, healthy habits, supportive relationships, and professional guidance, individuals can take meaningful steps toward better mental health.

Check out the article and reasons below:

1. Pray

This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. – 1 John 5:14

Prayer should always be our first approach to any problem. Before we set out to face our inner demons, it helps to take a moment and return our hearts to God. Scripture tells us that the Lord hears our prayers and will walk with us through any trial (Psalm 102:17), so we shouldn’t worry about standing alone. God knows our fears, he knows our suffering, and he loves us through it all. That knowledge alone can be very encouraging.

So take a moment and present your troubles to God. Tell him about your anger, your sadness, and your fear. Don’t be ashamed, because he wants hear your worries. Who knows? By the end, you may discover your burden has grown a little lighter.

2. Journal

On that night the king could not sleep. And he gave orders to bring the book of memorable deeds, the chronicles, and they were read before the king. – Esther 6:1

Putting pen to paper can often help liberate your inner feelings. Don’t worry about grammar or neatness, simply sit down and write. Some Christians may find it cathartic to write about their anxieties, while others gain encouragement by reliving old adventures. Either way, the act of journaling can serve to nourish and satisfy the mind. Studies have even found it’s especially helpful for those suffering from stress-induced insomnia.

Oddly enough, even Biblical characters were fond of journaling. When King Xerxes couldn’t sleep, he had a servant read to him from the recorded histories. David and Solomon were both experienced poets, and would frequently put their emotions into verse (Psalm 13:2). You don’t have to create the next American classic, just take a moment and put your thoughts to paper.

3. Lean on Your Community

“Share each other’s burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ.” – Galatians 6:2-12

Never be embarrassed to share your struggles with other Christians. The Church was created so that fellow believers could nurture, protect, and inspire one another as they pursued Christ. In recent years though, too many congregations have become obsessed with outward appearances. They put on a showy display of being happy, wholesome individuals when inside they’re barely holding together. This type of thinking is neither healthy nor holy.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s ok to reach out to your community for help. Find someone within the congregation whom you trust and let them know what’s happening. No Christian was meant to go through life alone. So instead of toughing it out, lean on your fellow believers and remember we’re all strongest when we work together.

4. Eat Well

“Do not join those who drink too much wine or gorge themselves on meat, for drunkards and gluttons become poor, and drowsiness clothes them in rags.” Proverbs 23:20-21

This may sound strange, but what you eat can have a profound effect on how you think! The Bible has plenty of warnings against gluttony, and its words are practical advice for anyone wrestling with their mental health. When we overindulge in sugary drinks or deep-friend foods, we’re more likely to become overweight, incur physical problems like diabetes and heart disease, and see a drop in our overall self-esteem. Tempting as it may be to sooth our troubles with comfort food, Christians must learn to practice self-control.

Instead of snacking on candy, why not try a bowl of fresh fruit? Incorporate leafy-green vegetables into your diet, and cook up a nice piece of fish for dinner rather than a greasy burger. It may not seem as appetizing now, but you’ll be amazed at how much better you feel in the long run.

5. Read Your Bible

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” – John 16:33

This one should be a no-brainer. Scripture is filled with multiple, encouraging passages for anyone going through a rough period. For starters, it helps to know several Biblical figures also struggled with depression and anxiety. Job was so miserable he cursed the day of his birth (Job 3:1). A dejected Elijah actually went into the wilderness and begged God to kill him (1 Kings 19:4). Even Jesus knew how it felt to suffer mental anguish (Luke 22:44). If you’re feeling depressed, just know you’re in good company.

Thankfully, the message doesn’t stop there. The Bible teaches us that God will give us strength (Isaiah 40:31), provide shelter (Nahum 1:7), and walk with us through these dark times (Psalm 23:4). His message is one of hope, grace, and ultimately, joy. Whatever this world may throw at you, remember that Christ will see you through.

6. Practice Gratitude

“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:18

There’s an old song for children which goes, “Count your blessings, name them one by one. Count your blessings, see what God has done.” It’s a fairly useful piece of advice. When you’re angry or upset, it’s easy to forget all the good things which are happening in life. So it always helps to pause and count your blessings. Do you have a roof over your head? Clean drinking water? A family who loves you? That’s more than most have.

Counting your blessings may not mitigate your suffering, but it will remind you things aren’t as bad as they seem. Practicing gratitude is one of the most effective ways of staving off bitterness and depression. It might even be worthwhile to combine this step with #2, and create a journal of gratitude to revisit when you’re feeling low.

7. Exercise Regularly

“Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in your midst?” – 1 Corinthians 3:16

Never underestimate the value of physical exercise. The endorphins from a good run can work wonders on your mental health, and the feeling of accomplishment after a solid workout is hard to duplicate. Just as a proper diet can change the way you think, staying active helps your body guard against anxiety and depression. This really shouldn’t come as a surprise either, since Christians know God designed our bodies to run, jump, swim, climb, and do any number of physical feats.

Eating right and exercising regularly are the building blocks of good, bodily stewardship. When we neglect them, it only makes sense for our minds to suffer alongside our physiques. This doesn’t mean you immediately have to run a marathon or join a boot camp, but maybe consider taking a walk outside once in a while. A little outdoor activity could be a welcome change.

8. Practice Your Spiritual Gifts

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10

God created each person with unique and precious abilities. Do you like to sing? Can you memorize scripture better than anyone else you know? Maybe you enjoy volunteering in Sunday school or lending a hand in local events. Practicing your spiritual gifts doesn’t just glorify God, it can also help you when you’re suffering from depression.

These gifts remind us that we are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). The God of the universe created us to be special, and desires us to build a better world than what we see now. It’s a daunting task, but also an exciting one. So whenever life feels stressful, spend time practicing your gifts and remember God made you for a purpose.

9. Rest

“By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work.” – Genesis 2:2

This may be the hardest entry for Christians to accept. Our modern society moves at a blinding speed, and we’re constantly told to work longer, achieve higher, and contribute more often. Even on the weekends, our schedules overflow with tasks like doing laundry, cleaning the house, fixing the car, or shuffling the kids off to sports practice. We have effectively forgotten how to rest.

True relaxation is necessary for a healthy mind. If even God was willing to take a break, so should you! Spend some time reading a fun book, do a puzzle, take a nap, go see a movie, or grab a massage at your local outlet mall. Self-care isn’t necessarily selfish, it just ensures you’re not burning yourself out. So take the afternoon and treat yourself.

10. See a Doctor

For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers. – Proverbs 11:14

For the most part, these entries have focused on battling the common, day-to-day struggles of mental health, but sometimes emotional problems can turn deadly. If you’ve reached the point where self-harm is being considered, it is absolutely vital you go see a doctor right away. Regular appointments with a psychologist or licensed therapist can help with these feelings, and there’s no shame in speaking with a professional about them. To put this in perspective, a Christian speaker once compared therapy to getting routine car maintenance, “There’s nothing wrong with seeing a mechanic to make sure everything’s alright, why do we think any differently about counseling?”

God loves his children more than we could ever know (John 3:16), and he would never, ever want us to stay in a place where we would actively hurt ourselves. If you’re in a dark place, please reach out and ask for help. God put you on this world for a reason, because it’s a better place with you in it.

0

Kaci’s Camp Honors a Life That Continues to Inspire Hope and Inclusion

Kristin and Coach Jared Ronai recently joined WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart to talk about Kaci’s Camp, a free sports camp created in memory of their daughter, Kaci Ronai. The camp is designed for children with Down syndrome and reflects the Ronais’ desire to honor Kaci’s life while encouraging other families.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Jared shared that more than a year ago, he and Kristin learned they were expecting their fourth child. Later in the pregnancy, they found out Kaci would be born with Down syndrome.

Kaci was born on November 29th, 2025, and spent her first month in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Jared said the family was able to bring her home on New Year’s Eve, which became a very special day for their family. He also reflected on the memories they were able to make together during Kaci’s time at home.

Kaci became sick, and because of medical complications, she passed away on March 22nd, 2026.

Following her passing, the Ronais wanted to create something that would continue Kaci’s legacy. That vision became Kaci’s Camp.

The camp will be held on Saturday, August 8th, at Ariel Arena on the campus of Mount Vernon Nazarene University. It is open to children ages 6 through 18 with Down syndrome and will feature basketball, volleyball, soccer, and wiffle ball.

Kristin said their family was always focused on helping Kaci thrive, and they hope the camp will provide that same encouragement for other children. Jared said the goal is to give participants an opportunity to feel celebrated, build confidence around others like them, and enjoy a day where they can thrive through sports and activities.

The event is completely free for participating families. While donations are accepted, the Ronais said those gifts will help provide educational resources for parents of children with Down syndrome. They also shared that approximately one in every 700 babies is born with Down syndrome, and they hope the camp helps raise awareness within the community.

Kaci’s Camp is designed as a full-day event. Registration will take place from 9:30 until 10 a.m., with activities running from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Campers will participate in two sports during the morning, followed by lunch and breaks before taking part in two additional sports during the afternoon.

Kristin said they want every child who attends to feel like they are part of something and know they are welcomed. She also said that while the camp is centered on the children, she hopes volunteers and everyone involved will leave with a greater appreciation for the Down syndrome community.

Jared shared that he hopes Kaci’s Camp continues to grow in the years ahead, helping raise awareness about Down syndrome while honoring Kaci’s life and the impact she had on their family. Kristin also offered encouragement to parents who may receive a Down syndrome diagnosis for their child, saying that children with Down syndrome are a gift from God and sharing that Kaci was a tremendous blessing to their family.

As they prepare for the first Kaci’s Camp, the Ronais are asking the community to pray for the event, for enough volunteers to serve, and that every child who attends will have a positive experience and feel loved.

Registration is open through August 1st.

The Ronais are also seeking volunteers, and anyone interested in serving can use the same email address to learn more about available opportunities.

Click HERE to find out more or register!

0

If Guilt Wasn’t a Factor, What Would You Finally Let Go Of?

What would you let go of if guilt wasn’t part of the equation?

That was the question we discussed on the Morning Thing on Tuesday, and it led to some honest reflection. Many of us hold onto things long after they have stopped serving a purpose in our lives. Sometimes we keep carrying them because we feel responsible. Sometimes it’s because we’re afraid of what others might think. And sometimes it’s simply because letting go feels harder than hanging on.

The reality is that we all carry burdens. Some are necessary. Others may be burdens that God never intended for us to carry in the first place.

We often take on other people’s expectations. We try to fix problems that aren’t ours to solve. We feel guilty for saying no. We carry regrets from the past or put pressure on ourselves to meet standards that may be impossible to achieve.

Jesus offers a different perspective in Matthew 11:28-30 when He says, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

Notice what He doesn’t say. He doesn’t tell us to carry more. He doesn’t tell us to work harder. He invites us to come to Him.

As we talked about Tuesday, there is a difference between responsibility and burden. Scripture encourages us to care for one another and help carry each other’s burdens. At the same time, we can easily cross the line into carrying things that belong to someone else, or worrying about situations that are beyond our control.

Another challenge is learning the difference between conviction and guilt. Conviction helps us grow and points us toward God. Guilt often keeps us stuck, replaying failures and convincing us that we can never move forward.

The good news is that God’s grace was never based on our performance. Ephesians 2 reminds us that we are saved by grace, not by what we accomplish. We don’t earn God’s love by staying busy, fixing every problem, or carrying every burden.

The story of Mary and Martha in Luke 10 illustrates this perfectly. Martha was overwhelmed by everything that needed to be done, while Mary focused on what mattered most. Sometimes we can become so consumed by what we’re carrying that we miss the peace God is offering.

So here’s a question worth revisiting: If guilt wasn’t a factor, what would you finally let go of?

Whatever comes to mind, perhaps it’s worth asking whether God is asking you to keep carrying it—or whether He’s inviting you to place it in His hands.

Sometimes the most freeing thing we can do is let go of what was never ours to carry in the first place.

Click HERE for prayers to help you let go from Crosswalk.com

0

It’s National Say Something Nice Day!

On the Morning Thing, we talked about ways to celebrate and make someone else’s day better!

We also dug into the Bible and shared some verses that talk about showing kindness to others.

  • Small acts of kindness can improve your health and others
  • Be there for people when listening
  • Do small things for those in need

Click HERE for more examples of showing kindness to others!

Click HERE for Bible verses associated with kindness!

0

Beyond the Cornfields: Knox County CVB Showcases Ohio Golf’s Hidden Gems

WNZR’s Eric Brown recently spoke with Olivia Toth, executive director of the Knox County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, about the growing opportunities for tourism across Ohio and right here in Knox County.

Click HERE for the complete conversation!

Toth highlighted the Ohio Golf Trail, which showcases public golf courses across the state and encourages travelers to experience the diverse landscapes Ohio has to offer. She explained that many people picture Ohio as nothing more than flat farmland, but the state offers much more — including rolling hills, forests, scenic countryside, and unique small-town experiences.

She also discussed how different communities throughout Knox County offer completely different tourism experiences. Areas like Centerburg and Howard provide distinct settings for golf outings, weekend trips, and outdoor recreation, making Knox County an ideal destination for a long weekend getaway.

Toth emphasized that tourism does not always mean traveling far from home. She encouraged local residents to become “tourists in their own town” by exploring attractions, restaurants, trails, and experiences they may not have considered before. She said affordability and accessibility make local tourism especially appealing for families and residents looking for something new close to home.

Another featured attraction was the Knox County Coffee Trail, which includes eight coffee stops throughout the county. Many of the locations are accessible from the Heart of Ohio Trail, creating an opportunity for visitors to bike between destinations while experiencing local coffee shops and small businesses along the way.

Toth also highlighted several summer events coming to Knox County, encouraging both residents and visitors to take advantage of the many outdoor activities, festivals, and attractions happening throughout the season.

Click HERE for the Ohio Golf Guide!

Click HERE for the Knox County CVB!

0

Local Seniors Can Now Sign Up for Monthly Food Assistance Through Interchurch Social Services of Knox County!

As food costs continue to rise, a new partnership in Knox County is working to provide extra support for local seniors.

WNZR’s Eric Brown recently spoke with Carolyn Fergus about a new food assistance opportunity available through Interchurch Social Services of Knox County.

Click HERE to hear the full interview!

Interchurch is partnering with Mid-Ohio Food Collective to offer the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, which provides monthly food boxes to income-qualified adults age 60 and older.

According to Carolyn, the program is designed to help seniors stretch their food budgets while still receiving nutritious food items each month. Seniors who qualify will receive boxes filled with a variety of staple foods, including cereal, oats, pasta, rice, canned fruits and vegetables, dairy products, and protein sources. The contents of the boxes will vary from month to month, but the goal remains the same: helping supplement a senior’s diet with reliable food assistance.

Carolyn explained that participants will need to provide identification and proof of residency during the sign-up process, while income is self-reported on the application. She encouraged seniors who may qualify to begin signing up now ahead of the first shipment, which is expected to arrive in early June.

While the first delivery is expected to include around 90 food boxes, Carolyn says there is room for growth if community demand increases. She emphasized that the program is meant to serve as an additional resource for seniors and does not replace Interchurch’s regular pantry services.

In fact, she encouraged eligible seniors to continue utilizing the Interchurch food pantry, which offers fresh foods, frozen meats, and other grocery items throughout the month. The organization hopes the new program will provide even more stability for seniors facing rising grocery costs and financial pressures.

Food distribution will be available not only at the Mount Vernon office, but also through Interchurch locations in Centerburg, Fredericktown, and Danville, making the program more accessible to seniors across Knox County.

Carolyn also asked the community to continue praying for Interchurch, its staff, volunteers, and the families they serve as food assistance needs continue to grow throughout the county. She noted that volunteers are always needed to help distribute food and support daily operations.

For more information about the Commodity Supplemental Food Program or other Interchurch services, residents can call 740-397-4825 or click HERE!

0

WNZR joins local law enforcement to support the Click It or Ticket Initiative

WNZR went “On The Road with Big Blue” to the Mount Vernon Farmer’s Market to talk about the 2026 Click It or Ticket Campaign. This is a safety initiative to educate the public about the importance of seat belt safety.
We talked with representatives from local law enforcement:

  • Deputy Tom Queen from the Knox County Sheriff’s Office
  • Trooper Jared Myers from the Ohio State Highway Patrol
  • Officer Jackie Nauman from the Mount Vernon Police Department
  • Community Risk Reduction and Inspector Ross Wind from the Mount Vernon Fire Department

Click HERE to hear our conversation or click on the link below.

They shared some eye-opening stats on seat belt usage and how important it is to buckle up. We also talked about the importance of seat belts in all scenarios including summer travel, nighttime driving, and with teen drivers. They shared common misconceptions of seat belt usage including the interaction with air bags, proper child restraints and booster seats, and the importance for back seat passengers to buckle up.

One of the safest choices YOU can make is to buckle up!
Buckle up all the time – for short trips and long trips, and in every seating position.
For more information, visit www.nhtsa.gov/SeatBelts

0

You’re Not Alone: How Common Ground Is Bringing Hope to Those Facing Loss

Grief has a way of changing everything—and for many families in our community, it’s a reality they’re learning to live with each day. In the middle of that journey, a group called Common Ground is offering something simple but powerful: a place to come together, share, and be reminded that no one has to walk through loss alone.

WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart recently sat down with Kathy Wantland, Kathleen Swanger, and Wendi Lahmon—three women who know that journey firsthand and are now helping others navigate it together.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Common Ground is a support group that meets the second Tuesday of every month, focused on those grieving the loss of loved ones—especially parents who have lost children. The group began last year after Kathy Wantland lost her son. In the midst of her own grief, she felt a calling to create a space where others could come together, share, and simply not feel alone.

Kathleen Swanger, a licensed social worker with a background in hospice care, helped shape that vision. Having walked through the loss of her own son, Kevin, nearly 5 years ago, she understood the importance of connection. She shared that one of the biggest needs in grief is knowing that someone else understands—because every story is different, but the pain is something many share.

Wendi Lahmon echoed that sentiment. After losing both her husband, Tim, and her son Ryan, she says the support she’s found has been essential. She shared Ryan’s story—how he pushed through life after a devastating construction accident left him paralyzed, how he rebuilt his life in Florida, and how unexpectedly, a pulmonary embolism took him far too soon. Wendi was there through those final moments, and she says the days that followed were filled with both heartbreak and incredible support from others.

That’s what Common Ground is all about.

It’s a place where people can come as they are—where it’s okay to cry, okay to be vulnerable, and okay to not have all the answers. The group emphasizes confidentiality and compassion. There’s no pressure to speak—just the opportunity to listen, to share, and to be surrounded by people who truly understand.

Faith has also played a role for many in the group. Kathleen shared how prayer and reading the Psalms helped carry her through the darkest days, reminding her that even in loss, there is still purpose. Wendi admitted there were moments of anger in her grief—but even in those moments, she found that God never left her.

The support doesn’t stop at the monthly meetings. Kathy also offers additional connection opportunities, including a summer restaurant gathering (currently on break) and personal conversations for anyone who needs to talk. She emphasizes that grief can feel isolating—but it doesn’t have to be.

The next Common Ground meeting is set for May 12th at 6 p.m. at Newlife Community Church, located at 9955 Mount Gilead Road in Fredericktown. There’s no sign-up required—just show up.

Beyond the group, these women are also helping bring awareness to mental health and suicide prevention. A 5K/10K run is planned for September 12th at 5 p.m. at Ariel Park, followed by a memorial to honor lives lost and remind others that help is available. They’re also involved in community outreach events like First Fridays and the Rod Masters Car Show, where proceeds go toward suicide awareness efforts.

At its heart, Common Ground is exactly what the name suggests—a place where people can meet in the middle of their grief, find connection, and begin to heal together.

Because sometimes, the most powerful thing you can hear is this: you’re not alone.

Click HERE on how you can find out more through the New Life Community Church in Fredericktown.

0

Flying Horse Farms Offers Life-Changing Camp Experience for Children with Serious Illnesses

For many kids, summer camp means swimming, boating, archery, and making lifelong memories with new friends. At Flying Horse Farms in Mount Gilead, those same camp traditions are made possible for children living with serious illnesses.

WNZR’s Eric Brown recently spoke with Liv Malmsten about the organization’s unique medical specialty camp and the impact it has on children and families.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Flying Horse Farms provides a traditional camp experience—complete with activities like swimming, boating, archery, and arts and crafts—while also ensuring campers are supported in a medically and emotionally safe environment. The goal is simple: give kids the chance to just be kids while still receiving the care they need.

A key part of that support is the camp’s on-site Wellness Center. The facility is staffed by medical and psychosocial professionals who help meet campers’ physical, emotional, and behavioral needs. With that level of care available, children can safely enjoy the full camp experience even while managing serious health conditions.

During the conversation, Malmsten explained that the camp carefully adapts activities so every child can participate. Whether it’s modifying equipment or adjusting how an activity is run, the staff works to ensure each camper can join in and experience the fun alongside their peers.

Looking ahead to the upcoming summer season, Flying Horse Farms is encouraging families to apply soon. The priority application deadline is March 16, although applications will still be accepted after that date as space allows.

The camp is also currently seeking adult volunteers who want to help support campers throughout the summer. Volunteers play an important role in creating a welcoming and encouraging environment for children and their families.

Click HERE to learn more about the camp, apply, or explore volunteer opportunities!

0

Blog at WordPress.com.

Up ↑