Category: Interview

From Humble Beginnings to Something Bigger: The WNZR Story Across Generations

There’s something meaningful about watching a vision grow, especially when it carries across generations. That’s the story of WNZR through Jim McMillan and his son, Jayme.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Jim McMillan, now principal at Grove City Christian, has spent nearly 29 years in education. But his connection to media goes back much further. As a student at Mount Vernon Nazarene University (Class of 1983), he helped build WNZR from the ground up.

In the early days, the “station” was a cleared-out 4×8 closet with a turntable, a microphone, and a four-channel board. It wasn’t much, but it was enough to get started. What mattered more was the energy around it. Students believed in what it could become.

During his sophomore year, Jim went through the application process to formally join the station. It meant research, preparation, and commitment. A turning point came during a weekend trip to the NRB Convention in Minnesota with Professor Dr. Smith. Somewhere along the way, it stopped feeling like just a project and started to feel like a calling.

Jim eventually served as production director and later station manager while WNZR was still taking shape. As construction on a real studio began, the anticipation across campus grew. Students broadcast over the breezeway so others could listen in passing. By his senior year, they were calling play-by-play for sports. It felt real.

At the time, WNZR operated on a limited carrier current system, but the goal was always to become a full FM station. Being there at the beginning made it even more meaningful to see that vision come to life.

Years later, that story continued with his son.

Jayme McMillan, Class of 2012, grew up hearing about WNZR, but living it was different. By the time he arrived, the station had grown, but it was still evolving. Sports broadcasting was central, and much of the work was hands-on. Running cables, setting up equipment, figuring things out as you went.

Video production started gaining traction during his later years, helping shift WNZR into something broader than radio. The station expanded its FM reach, and while online streaming existed, it was still finding its place. Even so, there was a clear sense of momentum. Leadership’s excitement, especially from Marcy, carried through the entire team.

One major step forward was “Big Blue,” the mobile broadcast unit. Before that, students packed gear into cars and vans for every event. Big Blue gave WNZR a visible presence and made the operation feel more established.

Some of the most memorable moments, though, were personal.

During Jayme’s freshman year, station leaders trusted two freshmen to keep things running while they were away. When the other student couldn’t make it, Jayme stepped in and ended up hosting an afternoon drive show with his dad. At the time, it was about handling responsibility. Looking back, it was something more.

For Jim, it was nerve-wracking. Even with experience, he didn’t want to let anyone down, especially Jayme. But it also gave him something he never had as a student, the chance to be on air, and to share it with his son.

Moments like that reflect what WNZR has always been about. It’s grown into radio, TV, and live streaming, but at its core, it’s about people and shared purpose.

There’s even a bit of friendly competition in the story. Jayme was named employee of the year twice. Jim earned it once. Jim jokes that someone had to build the foundation first. From a small student-built studio to a full media operation, the difference is hard to miss.

Through all that growth, one thing hasn’t changed.

Both Jim and Jayme point to the role faith has played in WNZR’s journey. Built in a small market with limited resources, the station has grown beyond what anyone expected, supported by both campus and community.

Jayme hopes that support continues, along with prayers for the station’s future. As technology changes, he wants WNZR to keep growing while staying true to its mission of serving and uplifting others.

Looking back, Jim doesn’t remember doubt in those early days. What stands out is the excitement. The belief that something meaningful was being built.

Decades later, that belief still holds.

Click HERE to learn more about WNZR!

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WNZR Matching Challenge Conversation: Eric Street in honor of Harry Street

WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart sits down with her brother, Eric Street, during Lifeline 2026—where he’s offering a $5,000 matching challenge in honor of their father, Harry Street.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

The conversation starts light, with a funny family memory. Eric shares a song Marcy made up as a teenager—“I Live in a Trailer”—that’s somehow been passed down to his young son and even made a comeback over Easter. Marcy jokes she might sing it on-air if the challenge is met.

From there, the conversation moves into something deeper

Eric reflects on their dad as a man who truly lived out his faith. One memory that stayed with him—sitting with his father late at night while he read the Bible—didn’t seem extraordinary at the time, but later revealed the depth of his devotion. That example continues to shape Eric’s faith today.

He also talks about the impact of Christian radio, sharing how often a song comes on at just the right moment—meeting him exactly where he is. It’s one of the ways, he says, God connects with people in everyday life.

Music played a big role in their family. Eric remembers his dad’s love for hymns like “Amazing Grace,” but also a powerful moment hearing “My Redeemer Lives” for the first time—watching his dad respond in a way that left a lasting impression.

As the conversation wraps up, Eric points to the importance of legacy—how his father’s example now guides him as a parent, and why supporting WNZR matters. Because through ministries like this, lives are impacted, faith is strengthened, and people are drawn closer to Christ.

Marcy adds that it’s exactly what Lifeline is all about—continuing the work God has already started.

Click HERE to learn more about WNZR!

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Lifeline 2026 is THIS WEEK! For our Friday Favorites, the Morning Thing hosts shared our favorite Lifeline Theme Song from WNZR and how that song has impacted our life.

  1. Xander – Keep Me In The Moment by Jeremy Camp – Lifeline 2021
  2. Josiah – Fix Our Eyes – Fix My Eyes by for King & Country – Lifeline 2018
  3. Eric – Testify To Love by Avalon – Lifeline 1999
  4. Marcy – The Proof of Your Love by for King & Country – Lifeline 2013

Click HERE to learn more about WNZR!

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More Than a Club: How Apple Core Ladies Are Making an Impact in Apple Valley

If you want a snapshot of what strong community looks like, the Apple Core Ladies of Apple Valley are a great place to start.

During a recent WNZR conversation, Ethan Hershberger and Brookabella talked with several members of the group—and what stood out is simple: this is a place where women stay connected, keep learning, and continue making an impact.

Click HERE to hear the full conversations!

Joyce serves as the group’s communications coordinator, sending updates and helping keep everyone organized. But more than that, she naturally connects with people—something she’s done for years alongside her husband’s ministry. Whether it’s greeting someone at a meeting or making sure information gets out, her role helps keep the group relational and welcoming.

Karen, a former electronic filing manager with the Ohio Department of Taxation, has served as president, vice president, and more. She shared that Apple Core has grown to over 70 members, thanks in part to its variety—monthly breakfasts followed by engaging speakers, plus trips throughout the year to local destinations. From historical performances to practical demonstrations, every month offers something different.

Audrey, who retired after a long career with Huntington National Bank, highlighted the group’s commitment to giving back. While Apple Core is primarily social, members support local charities each year through donations and service. Recent efforts have included supporting The Main Place in Mount Vernon, along with contributions to shelters and animal organizations, showing how the group extends its impact beyond its own members.

Sue, a former teacher of 30 years, helps lead one of the group’s biggest events—the Apple Valley Family Palooza. What started as a simple idea has grown into a full community event with games, activities, and family-friendly fun. She also shared how Apple Core helped her find connection after moving to the area, turning what could have been an isolating transition into a place of belonging.

At the end of the day, that’s what defines the Apple Core Ladies. It’s not just what they do—it’s how they bring people together.

Click HERE to find out more about the Apple Core Ladies!

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Small Town, USA Returns: A Wartime Film Project Brings Mount Vernon’s Past Back to Life

There’s something special about seeing your hometown on screen—especially when that footage dates back more than 80 years. That’s exactly what’s happening as Small Town USA, a restored film series, returns to the Knox Memorial Theater.

WNZR’s Eric Brown recently sat down with author and historian Michael Sherfy to talk about the origins and significance of these fascinating films.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Sherfy explains that the project dates back to 1944, right in the middle of World War II. At the time, the U.S. government created these films as part of a “good neighbor” effort aimed at Latin America. The goal? Strengthen relationships and encourage support for the Allied cause. The films eventually reached far beyond that audience, translated into 17 languages and shown in 33 countries.

So why Mount Vernon? According to Sherfy, it checked all the right boxes. Filmmakers were searching for what they considered a “typical” American town, and Mount Vernon offered just that—a balanced mix of agriculture and industry, a thriving community, and a picturesque setting. From its inviting public square to its neighborhoods and local businesses, the city helped paint an idealized version of small-town American life.

One of the most unique aspects of the films is their authenticity. There were no professional actors involved. Instead, real Mount Vernon residents stepped in front of the camera, giving the films a natural and relatable feel. For audiences at the time—and especially for locals now—that authenticity adds an extra layer of connection.

The scope of what was captured is equally impressive. Filmmaker Julien Bryan shot more than 100,000 feet of film, though only a small portion made it into the final cuts. What remains offers a vivid snapshot of daily life in the 1940s. Viewers will see workers at Cooper-Bessemer, a doctor making house calls and administering vaccinations, scenes from Election Day, classrooms in action, and even agricultural work through the lens of a county extension agent. Together, these moments create a rich portrait of community, work, and everyday life.

Of course, Sherfy is quick to point out that these films weren’t just documentaries—they were patriotic propaganda. Initially created to promote America during World War II, they were later repurposed during the early Cold War to highlight the American way of life. Even so, they remain a valuable historical record, offering insight into both reality and aspiration in 1940s America.

Modern viewers may notice a bit of 1940s “hokiness,” but they’ll also likely recognize familiar streets and settings. That blend of past and present is part of what makes this screening so compelling.

The April 8th event promises more than just a film showing. It will include an introduction from Mayor Matt Starr, historical context to help frame the experience, screenings of three of the five restored films, and a panel discussion with audience interaction. It’s not just about watching history—it’s about engaging with it.

Small Town USA will be shown Wednesday, April 8th at 6:30 p.m. at the Knox Memorial Theater.

For more information, contact the Public Library of Mount Vernon and Knox County at (740) 392-2665 or click HERE.

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WNZR’s Meet the Staff Mondays w/Noah Warkentine

Noah Warkentine a sophomore communications major at Mount Vernon Nazarene University, and he’s quickly becoming a fun and recognizable part of the WNZR radio team.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Originally from Uhrichsville, Ohio, Noah says his decision to come to MVNU was rooted in his desire to attend a Christian college. It also didn’t hurt that his dad once attended MVNU, and a close high school friend made the same choice—making the transition feel a little more like home.

Noah’s interest in radio didn’t just happen overnight. He was inspired by someone he knew growing up—Richy Johns—who also made his way to WNZR. Seeing someone from his hometown get involved sparked something, and Noah decided to follow in those footsteps. Now, he’s on the air himself, hosting from 11pm to midnight on Mondays and Thursdays.

Beyond the radio booth, Noah also occasionally helps out with the video crew for sportscasting, showing he’s just as comfortable behind the scenes as he is on the mic.

But if you ask Noah about his favorite parts of college life, he’ll probably bring up the memories made in Oakwood dorms. One story that stands out? An RA stepping in after someone created a fan Instagram account for him—claiming he was single. It’s the kind of random, hilarious moment that seems to follow Noah wherever he goes.

And that’s kind of his thing—bringing humor into everyday life. In fact, one of his signature moves is showing up to events in a full gorilla costume… just to confuse people and get a laugh. It’s unexpected, a little ridiculous, and completely on brand.

When he’s not on air or making people laugh, Noah enjoys the music played on WNZR and keeps things pretty simple when it comes to food—he’s a big fan of burgers from Steak ‘n Shake, topped with onions, cheese, and just a bit of ketchup.

He also spends part of his weekends giving back in a unique way—regularly donating plasma.

Ask him who he enjoys spending time with most, and he’ll quickly mention Zach Townsend. Whether it’s hanging out, joking around, or just enjoying college life, those friendships are a big part of what makes his experience meaningful.

One more thing that might surprise you—Noah has been serving in the National Guard for the past 2 years, adding another layer of commitment and discipline to his already full schedule.

From late-night radio to gorilla costumes, Noah Warkentine brings a mix of energy, humor, and heart to WNZR. If you haven’t caught his show yet, make sure to tune in—you never quite know what you’re going to get, but it’ll definitely be entertaining.

Click HERE to learn more about WNZR!

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From Launch to Leadership: Alan Reed Was There As WNZR Took Shape

Sometimes, the path you end up on isn’t the one you started—but it turns out to be exactly where you were meant to be.

That was the case for former WNZR Station Manager and MVNU graduate Alan Reed. Before arriving at Mount Vernon Nazarene College, Alan had already started his college journey elsewhere. But in the fall of 1985, everything shifted. After visiting MVNU and its campus radio station, WNZR, he saw something different—something that made him want to be part of it. With just two weeks before the semester began, he made the decision to transfer and jump in.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

At the time, WNZR was still finding its footing. Broadcasting on 560 AM, the station was designed primarily for campus use. The signal could reach parts of Mount Vernon, but it didn’t extend very far beyond that. Still, there was a bigger vision taking shape behind the scenes.

That vision became reality in 1986.

Alan was there during one of the most defining moments in the station’s history—when WNZR officially went on the air at 90.9 FM. After efforts to secure an FM signal, the excitement quickly turned into action. Alan remembers Dr. Smith walking in with the news that they had received approval, and from there, everything moved quickly. By early May 1986, the station launched on FM, expanding its reach across Knox County and transforming what WNZR could be.

It wasn’t just growth—it was a turning point. And Alan was right there to witness it.

He also recalls the physical construction that made it possible. The FM tower, built on the southeast corner of campus, rose piece by piece until it stood 300 feet tall. It was an exciting and unforgettable time, even including the memory of Dr. Smith climbing the tower during construction. For those involved, it felt like they were building something meaningful from the ground up.

Alan’s role with WNZR continued to grow as well. In the spring of 1988, when the station manager stepped away, Alan stepped in as interim station manager. While he understood the technical side of radio, working closely with students brought new experiences and challenges. One moment, in particular, stuck with him—while covering a shift during an inspirational segment, something malfunctioned, and a student test broadcast unexpectedly aired rock music. It was unplanned, but it became one of those classic live-radio stories you never forget.

Through all the changes and milestones, one thing remained constant: the mission.

Alan emphasizes that WNZR has always been more than a campus station. From the beginning, it was an outreach to the community—a way to connect, encourage, and share a message beyond MVNU. That purpose shaped the station then and continues to define it today.

Being part of WNZR helped shape Alan’s own path in broadcasting and education. It gave him a sense of identity and purpose within the industry, and a connection to something bigger than himself. Now, 40 years later, he’s still at MVNU as a professor in the same department. While he no longer works directly with the station, being around it again feels familiar in the best way.

Like coming home.

Looking back, Alan finds it remarkable not just how much has changed—but how much hasn’t. The technology has advanced. The reach has expanded. But the mission remains the same: to spread the word of Christ to the campus and the community.

What started as a small AM signal—and a last-minute decision—has grown into something lasting, meaningful, and still making an impact today.

Click HERE to learn more about WNZR!

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Keeping the Ball Moving: Mitch Barber’s Journey with WNZR and a Legacy of Purpose

There’s something special about being part of the beginning of something meaningful—and for Mitch Barber, that “something” was WNZR.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Mitch, a Mount Vernon Nazarene College (MVNC) graduate from the class of 1990, grew up as a “Nazarene kid” with a natural curiosity for all things technical. So when he visited campus and discovered the radio program, it didn’t take long before he was hooked. What started as interest quickly turned into passion.

Back in the mid-1980s, WNZR was just getting its footing. The station briefly aired during the spring semesters of 1985 and 1986 before officially launching full-time in 1986. Mitch remembers the buzz on campus—especially among juniors and seniors. There was a shared sense that something important was happening, and everyone wanted to be part of it.

Before FM, WNZR operated on a small AM signal that barely reached beyond the Oakwood dorms. But when the FM signal went live, everything changed. Suddenly, the station wasn’t just for campus—it was for the entire community. That shift gave the station a deeper sense of purpose, turning it into a true ministry.

One of Mitch’s most unforgettable memories came early in his broadcasting days. On Saturday, April 4, 1987, during his noon-to-3 shift, a freak snowstorm hit Mount Vernon—dumping two feet of snow. What started as a routine shift quickly turned into a marathon. With the next DJs unable to make it in, Mitch stayed on air until 7 p.m., becoming the go-to voice for weather updates, church cancellations, and school closures. It was nerve-racking—but also defining.

Looking back now, Mitch laughs about how “the paint was still fresh on the tower.” As WNZR approaches its 40th anniversary, it’s a reminder of just how far things have come. Mitch sees his role simply as helping to “keep the ball moving down the field,” but his pride in the station’s growth is unmistakable.

After graduating, Mitch returned in 1991 to serve as station manager. For him, it wasn’t just about running a station—it was about investing in students. Some of his favorite memories come from building relationships and walking alongside students during their college years.

He also witnessed firsthand how quickly technology evolved. From reel-to-reel tapes to vinyl cueing, and eventually compact discs, the pace of change was constant. But through it all, the mission stayed the same.

In fact, Mitch even played a role in shaping that mission—helping to create the station’s identity as “The Lifeline.” He remembers sitting in a room with others, tossing around ideas on note cards. The concept grew out of a shared belief: Jesus is the source of life, and the station should reflect that. The name “Lifeline” emerged naturally—and it stuck.

Like any journey, Mitch’s time at WNZR wasn’t without mistakes. But he embraces those moments now, recognizing how much they shaped him. They helped him grow more confident in public speaking—something that would later prove invaluable in his career as a pilot.

Not all memories were easy. Mitch recalls reporting on tragedies within the community—stories no broadcaster wants to tell. But even in those moments, he saw something powerful: people coming together, supporting one another, and finding hope.

That theme of hope became especially real during his time working morning radio in Tennessee. He was on air when news broke about the Columbine school shooting. Overwhelmed like everyone else, Mitch chose to speak from the heart—offering hope in a moment of darkness. The response was immediate. Calls poured in from listeners who needed exactly that message. Later, he even brought in a police officer to talk about prevention and safety, turning tragedy into an opportunity for education and care.

Through it all, one phrase has stuck with Mitch: “God did it.” What started as a humble, seemingly temporary project has lasted nearly four decades. It’s a testament, he believes, to a bigger plan at work.

Today, as he continues his career as a pilot, Mitch carries those lessons with him. He asks for prayers—not just for himself, but for peace in the regions he travels to. And as he reflects on WNZR, he’s grateful—not just for what it was, but for what it has become.

From a small campus station to a vital part of the community, WNZR’s story is still being written. And Mitch Barber is proud to have been there near the beginning—helping keep the ball moving forward.

Click HERE to check out WNZR’s website!

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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!

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WNZR’s Meet the Staff Monday w/Kyra Warren

Kyra Warren is a new and energetic member of the WNZR radio team, bringing both passion and personality to the station.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation with WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart!

Originally from Wheelersburg, Ohio, Kyra’s journey to Mount Vernon Nazarene University was shaped by a meaningful experience at Nazarene Youth Conference. That moment helped guide her decision to attend MVNU, where she is now a junior majoring in communications and media. Her interest in radio comes naturally—she jokes that she loves hearing herself talk—but it’s also been strengthened through her coursework and hands-on opportunities.

At WNZR, Kyra serves as an on-air DJ and is actively involved behind the scenes as part of the WNZR.TV video crew. In addition, she contributes to the university’s stream team, where she runs camera and graphics, particularly for men’s volleyball—her favorite sport to follow. Her enthusiasm for media production and broadcasting continues to grow as she gains more experience in these roles.

Outside of the studio, Kyra enjoys spending time with friends, especially those in the communications department. One of her favorite memories from this school year involves her time in Redwood Dorm, where she shares a fun and ongoing “feud” with her upstairs neighbors—who also happen to be longtime friends from church. The group has developed a playful tradition of secretly stealing items from each other’s apartments, with one memorable incident involving the temporary disappearance of Kyra’s fridge.

Music is another important part of Kyra’s life. Her favorite artist is Riley Clemmons, and her favorite song, “Godsend,” holds special meaning to her. She shares that she played the song often during an impactful season of her life, and it continues to resonate with her today. When it comes to food, Kyra keeps it simple—she loves hotdogs, especially when they’re part of fun events with friends. On weekends, she enjoys relaxing and finding new things to do with the people closest to her.

Family plays a central role in Kyra’s story. She describes her dad as her favorite person in the world, noting how similar they are. During her high school years, her dad faced cancer and overcame it with strength and resilience. Even in the midst of that challenge, he remained focused on caring for others, leaving a lasting impression on Kyra. She also shared that she once dreamed of becoming a flight attendant, even choosing to attend college in part because she needed to be 21 for the job. While her goals have since changed, that dream reflects her adventurous and people-oriented spirit.

Kyra’s favorite Bible verse is Proverbs 1:7: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” This verse continues to guide her perspective on faith, learning, and growth.

You can catch Kyra Warren on the air on Tuesdays from 1–2 PM and Wednesdays from 10–11 AM on WNZR.

Click HERE to check out WNZR’s website!

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