Get moving!

Today on The Morning Thing, we shared great ways to get outside and enjoy the warm weather during Move More Month! There is an idea for everybody to enjoy being active. Even small efforts, like taking a walk or dancing to your favorite song, can make a big difference. 

Our favorite ways to get active:

  • Fur-kid Frolicking
  • Get rolling
  • Produce picking
  • Boating

Click HERE to see all 25 ways to move more!

Click HERE to learn more about Move More Month!

Ben Fuller Talks Faith, Struggles, and The Black Sheep Tour

When Ben Fuller talks about his Black Sheep Tour, there’s one thing that stands out right away—he doesn’t pretend to have it all figured out.

In a recent conversation with WNZR’s Ethan Hershberger, Fuller described each night of the tour as something like “Christmas morning.” Not because of the lights or the music, but because he genuinely doesn’t know what God is going to do. And honestly, that’s what excites him most.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

“It’s like, okay God, have your way… this is your show,” Fuller said. “He pours His Spirit out differently in every city.”

That mindset shapes everything about The Black Sheep Tour. It’s not just another concert—it’s a night designed for people who feel like they don’t quite fit. The outsiders. The ones carrying heavy stories. The ones who might not even be sure they belong in a church setting.

That message is especially clear in his song “Black Sheep.” It’s raw. It’s honest. And by his own admission, it’s not the kind of song people expected to hear on Christian radio. But that’s exactly why it’s connecting.

People hear it and think, that’s my life. Struggles with addiction. Family pain. Questions about faith. Fuller doesn’t shy away from any of it—because that’s where he says God met him.

After years of battling drugs, alcohol, and hopelessness, Fuller describes encountering God in a way that changed everything. He compares it to the feeling of taking off heavy football pads after a long, exhausting game—suddenly, you can breathe again. There’s a lightness. A freedom.

And that’s the experience he hopes people find on this tour.

In fact, he had a simple challenge for listeners in Lancaster: if there’s someone in your life you’ve been thinking about inviting to church… this is the night to do it.

“This is going to be church, but not church,” he said. “God is going to meet that person in that place.”

Beyond the stage, Fuller also spoke about the role Christian radio played in his own journey. Long before he gave his life to Christ, songs were already reaching him—planting seeds he didn’t even realize were there at the time. Now, he sees it clearly: God was speaking, even then.

That same authenticity is something he believes is growing across Christian music today—artists being more real, more open, and more willing to tell the full story.

And that’s exactly what you can expect from The Black Sheep Tour.

Ben Fuller will be in Lancaster on Sunday, April 19th at Fairfield Christian Church. The night will also feature special guest Reeves, with music that’s honest, encouraging, and full of hope. Doors open at different times depending on your ticket, and the concert begins at 7pm.

Click HERE to find out more about the Black Sheep Tour!

Rebekah Gregory shares her powerful story with WNZR!

Today on The Morning Thing, we were blessed with a conversation with Rebekah Gregory!

In 2013, Rebekah’s life was forever changed when she was a victim of the Boston Marathon bombing. Despite enduring severe injuries, including the amputation of her leg, Rebekah emerged as a symbol of hope and resilience. Rebekah is an advocate for trauma survivors and has dedicated her life to spreading a message of hope and empowerment.

She will be speaking at the 2026 Women’s Auxiliary Spring Conference. It will be Friday, April 17th and Saturday April 18th at MVNU! Join for an unforgettable weekend of encouragement, faith, and inspiration.

The Morning Thing Friday Favorites – our favorite Easter Memories

On this Good Friday, The Morning Thing hosts shared their favorite Easter memories. It is a special Easter edition of Friday Favorites!

Click HERE or on the link below to hear from Marcy, Xander, Josiah and Eric.

The WNZR Staff wish you and your family a Happy Easter!

Serving for 36 Years: Starting Point Continues to Grow to Meet Community Needs

For more than 36 years, Starting Point Pregnancy and Family Resource Center has been quietly making a difference in the lives of individuals and families across the community.

Click HERE to hear all the interviews!

At its core, Starting Point is a faith-based, nonprofit organization that comes alongside people in some of life’s most overwhelming moments—whether that’s an unexpected pregnancy, reproductive loss, or simply needing someone to talk to. They offer services like pregnancy testing, limited OB ultrasounds, STI testing and treatment, counseling, and education focused on healthy relationships.

Executive Director Jennifer Furay says that mission has always been rooted in both faith and community. She emphasizes that Starting Point wouldn’t be where it is today without the support of the people around them—support that has sustained the ministry for more than three decades.

And now, that mission is expanding.

One of the biggest steps forward this year is the launch of their brand-new mobile medical unit, which they’ve named “Rosey.” This unit will allow their team to bring care directly into the community—meeting people where they are and expanding access to services in a very practical way. The mobile unit will officially be commissioned during their upcoming annual banquet, marking an exciting milestone for the organization.

That banquet is happening April 9th at Ariel Arena on the campus of Mount Vernon Nazarene University—and it’s shaping up to be their largest event yet.

The theme this year is “No Gift Is Too Small,” based on James 1:17: “Every good and perfect gift is from above.” It’s a message that reflects both the heart of their mission and the way they operate. Starting Point is fully supported by the community—through donations, partnerships, and events like this one—and every contribution plays a role in sustaining their work.

Development Director Jess Kirby explains that while the event is free to attend, seating is limited. Guests can reserve their spot by calling 740-393-5074 or visiting friendsofksp.com. The evening will feature keynote speaker Christina Hagan, Vice President of Medical Mobile Ministry at Care Net, along with a special perspective from one of Starting Point’s youngest donors.

Beyond the banquet, Starting Point continues to invest in everyday support for families.

Client Services Director Abbey Ernst highlights their monthly moms group, which creates space for connection, encouragement, and community. The group meets during the school year on the first Wednesday of each month at 11am at 11 Woodlake Trail, and during the summer, gatherings move to local parks and churches. They also offer birthing classes in both the fall and spring, helping parents feel more confident and prepared for labor and delivery.

And as their services grow, so does the need for volunteers.

Starting Point is actively looking for individuals willing to serve in a variety of roles—from client advocates to medical volunteers. Nurse Manager Heather Lanzer shares that while licensed nurses are especially helpful for medical services and the mobile unit, training is available for those who feel called to get involved.

As Starting Point looks ahead, Furay says the focus remains clear: continue meeting people where they are, continue offering support and care, and continue building strong connections within the community.

And whether it’s through attending the banquet, volunteering time, or offering support—every step forward is made possible by people who choose to be part of the mission.

Click HERE to find out more about Starting Point Pregnancy and Family Resource Center!

What God says about your worth!

Today on The Morning Thing, we talked about worth in honor of National Each Person is a Person of Worth Day! Our hosts decided to dive into scripture to see exactly what God says about you and your worth.

In today’s world, it is important to remember that you are completely worthy in God’s eyes.

Click HERE to learn more about National Each Person is a Person of Worth Day and what it means!

Click HERE to view the passages from Psalm 139!

From Local Voices to New Adventures: Knox County CVB Invites You to Explore and Celebrate

There’s something special happening in Knox County right now, and it centers around the stories that shape the community. Recently, Eric Brown from WNZR spoke with Olivia Toth from the Knox County Convention and Visitors Bureau about a project designed to preserve those stories for generations to come.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

The Visitors Bureau, working alongside the local library, is creating an audio time capsule and inviting residents to contribute their own experiences and memories. It’s an opportunity for people across Knox County to share moments that reflect how the area has grown and changed over time. The plan is to collect these stories throughout the year and eventually turn them into a book or presentation that will be archived in the library. It’s a simple idea with a lasting impact—giving future generations a chance to hear directly from the people who lived it.

Some of the stories already collected highlight just how meaningful this effort can be. They touch on changes within the community, memories connected to national conflicts, and local achievements that have helped shape Knox County’s identity. Together, they paint a picture of a community that continues to evolve while staying rooted in its history.

This focus on storytelling comes at a meaningful time, as Knox County prepares to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. Throughout the year, there will be parades, picnics, and a variety of events designed to bring people together. The state of Ohio is also introducing themed celebrations, connecting local communities to the broader national milestone. One event already drawing attention is a showing of Bye Bye Birdy at Ariel-Foundation Park on July 26 as part of the “Ohio Goes to the Movies” initiative, offering a fun way for families and friends to gather and celebrate.

At the same time, the Visitors Bureau is helping people experience Knox County in new ways. This year’s county guide, titled the “New Adventures Guide,” takes a fresh approach by removing advertisements and focusing entirely on content. Instead of ads, readers will find stories, interviews, and features that highlight the people and places that make the county unique. The goal is to not only inform but also inspire both residents and visitors to explore more deeply.

Even those who have lived in Knox County for years may be surprised by what they haven’t discovered yet. There’s a strong emphasis on showcasing lesser-known attractions—the kinds of places that might not always get the spotlight but are well worth a visit. To make exploring easier, digital trail passes have been introduced, offering curated experiences across the area. One of the newest additions is the Knox County Coffee Trail, which features seven different stops and gives people a fun, interactive way to explore local coffee spots.

All of these efforts—from collecting personal stories to creating new ways to explore—are about strengthening the connection people have to Knox County. Whether it’s sharing a memory, attending a community event, or discovering a hidden gem, there are more ways than ever to be part of what makes this area special.

Click HERE to learn more about the Knox County CVB!

The Morning Thing Friday Favorites 3/20/26 – We celebrate the First Day of Spring!

Today is the First Day of Spring! We celebrate with the Big Blue Crew by talking about how we plan to enjoy the new season!

Click HERE to hear from our WNZR Staff members OR click on the image below.

We shared a list of ideas on how to enjoy this beautiful new season.

1. Watch for the First Robins

Robins are one of the classic signs of spring. Take a few minutes to watch and listen for birds returning after winter.

2. Open the Windows

Let fresh air into your home for the first time in a while. It’s a simple way to refresh your space and welcome the new season.

3. Try a “No Jacket” Walk

If the weather cooperates, enjoy a short walk without a winter coat and appreciate the warmer air.

4. Visit a Farmers Market

Some early markets begin opening in spring. Pick up fresh bread, honey, or early greens.

5. Make a Spring Bucket List

Write down 5–10 things you want to do before summer arrives—festivals, hikes, day trips, or projects.

6. Change Your Seasonal Decor

Swap out winter décor for lighter colors, flowers, or greenery around the house.

7. Take a “Signs of Spring” Photo Challenge

Look for buds, puddles, birds, flowers, or sunshine and take photos of the first signs you see.

8. Make a Bright Spring Meal

Cook something colorful like a salad with fresh greens, strawberries, or citrus.

9. Call Someone You Haven’t Talked to in a While

Spring is about renewal—reach out and reconnect with someone.

10. Read Outside

Even if it’s just for 10 minutes, grab a chair on the porch or sit in the sun with a book or devotional.

🌱 Bonus idea: Write down one thing you want to grow in your life this spring—patience, kindness, faith, creativity, or health—and pray or reflect on that throughout the season.

MORE IDEAS:

The first day of spring is the perfect excuse to reset your routine, get outside, and celebrate something fresh 🌱 Here are a mix of fun, meaningful, and easy ideas you can actually do:

🌸 Get Outside & Enjoy the Season

  • Take a walk at a local park and look for the first signs of blooms
  • Have a picnic (even if it’s a little chilly—blankets help!)
  • Watch the sunrise or sunset to mark the new season
  • Visit a farmers market or garden center
  • Start a small garden or plant flowers in pots

☀️ Refresh Your Life

  • Do a mini spring cleaning (just one room or even one drawer!)
  • Swap out winter clothes for lighter, brighter outfits
  • Open the windows and play music while you tidy up
  • Rearrange a room for a fresh feel

🌼 Simple Joys & Self-Care

  • Buy yourself fresh flowers
  • Try a new spring recipe (salads, fruit dishes, lemon desserts)
  • Journal about what you want this new season to look like
  • Set a few light, realistic goals for spring

🌷 Connect with Others

  • Invite a friend for coffee or a walk
  • Write a handwritten note to someone
  • Do something kind for a neighbor

🎉 Make It Fun & Memorable

  • Create a “spring bucket list”
  • Take photos to document the day
  • Start a new playlist with upbeat, fresh songs
  • Have a themed dinner (spring colors, fresh foods)

🌿 Meaningful/Reflective Ideas

  • Spend time in prayer or quiet reflection
  • Think about what you want to “let go of” from winter
  • Focus on gratitude for new beginnings

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