Category: WNZR DJs

WNZR’s Meet the Staff Mondays w/Odessa Wellman

One of 13 new voices joining the WNZR airwaves this year is Odessa Wellman.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

A sophomore at MVNU majoring in Communications and Digital Media, Odessa is stepping into the world of radio with enthusiasm and a growing passion for connecting with listeners.

Originally from Bucyrus, Ohio, Odessa’s decision to attend MVNU felt like a natural fit. Having grown up in the Nazarene church, coming to a university within her district just made sense. Since arriving on campus, that sense of belonging has only deepened—especially through the friendships she’s formed while living in the residence halls. One of her favorite memories from this past year has simply been the joy of being surrounded by close friends and doing everyday life together.

Odessa first got involved in radio as part of her major, but it quickly became something more than just a class requirement. She’s found it to be a fun and meaningful way to express herself, build skills, and engage with the WNZR audience. That excitement carries into other areas of her campus life as well. She serves on the student class council and has already been selected as next year’s Junior Class President, where she’ll help plan events and create memorable experiences for her classmates.

When she’s not in the studio or focused on school, Odessa enjoys spending time with friends, taking trips off campus, and making the most of her weekends. She also loves basketball—especially the WNBA—and enjoys watching players like Caitlin Clark. While she admits she’s not the most athletic herself, her enthusiasm for the game is undeniable.

Music is another big part of Odessa’s life. She’s a fan of TobyMac, with Heaven On My Mind ranking as one of her favorite songs. And when it comes to comfort food, you can’t go wrong with her top choice: mac and cheese.

There are also a few fun facts that make Odessa stand out. Her name is inspired by Odysseus from The Odyssey, and she holds a close relationship with her mom, who she calls her built-in best friend. She also has a younger brother who keeps life interesting.

As Odessa continues to grow in her time at MVNU and WNZR, she’s already making an impact both on and off the air—and clearly enjoying every step of the journey.

You can catch Odessa on WNZR Wednesdays from 1–2pm and Thursdays from 11am–12pm.

Click HERE to learn more about WNZR!

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MVNU President Shares Perspective on Lifeline 2026

When Dr. Carson Castleman, President of Mount Vernon Nazarene University, talked with WNZR’s Ethan Hershberger about Lifeline 2026, the conversation centered on a simple theme: giving God the credit.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Dr. Castleman shared how the song “God Did It!” speaks to him. He said it’s a reminder that God is in and through all things, and that everything ultimately points back to Him. He connected that idea to Psalm 115:1: “Not to us, Lord, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.” For Dr. Castleman, that message calls him to humility and to recognize God’s faithfulness.

He also talked about his own journey, saying that God is rewriting his story each day. He emphasized that he isn’t held to past failures, but instead sees each day as a renewed opportunity to continue forward.

That same perspective carries into his view of MVNU. Dr. Castleman said the campus is continuing to be shaped and that its mission—who MVNU is and why it exists—is becoming clearer. He noted that the university is growing and pointed to God as the reason for that growth.

Looking ahead, he said he would like to see God continue to have His hand on MVNU and that it would be evident. He also expressed a desire that gatherings on campus would reflect God’s presence.

Dr. Castleman also spoke about the impact of WNZR. He described the station as a gift in his life and said it has helped redirect his focus toward what’s important.

He added that Christian radio can be a quiet way to bring hope and truth into places people can’t physically go, and that God is present in those places as well.

For Dr. Castleman, that’s part of what Lifeline 2026 represents—continuing that work and pointing people back to God.

Click HERE to learn more about WNZR!

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“The More You Listen, The More You Hear”: WNZR’s Journey of Growth and Connection

Back in the early 2000s, radio was starting to look a little different. Technology was changing quickly, and stations everywhere were asking the same question—how do we keep up? At WNZR, that question turned into an opportunity.

WNZR’s Olivia Skillings recently sat down with Marcy and Joe Rinehart to talk about one of the station’s most pivotal moments: the launch of online streaming. At the time, WNZR was limited to its local signal, but leadership recognized something important—listeners weren’t just in Knox County anymore. Families, alumni, and supporters were spread out across the country and even around the world.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

So, on October 1st, 2003, the station took a big leap. A one-day fundraiser was held to make online streaming a reality. By the end of the day, more than $8,000 had been raised—enough to cover the equipment, software, and licensing needed to get started. That moment didn’t just add a new feature. It changed everything.

Streaming broke down geographic barriers. Suddenly, parents could hear their students on the air no matter where they lived. Alumni could reconnect. Listeners could tune in from across the globe. It laid the foundation for what WNZR would become in the years ahead—more accessible, more connected, and more far-reaching than ever before.

But technology wasn’t the only thing growing. The heart of the station remained the same. As Marcy and Joe explained, WNZR’s positioning statement—“The more you listen, the more you hear”—captures something deeper. It’s not just about music or entertainment. It’s about hearing messages that matter. It’s about encouragement, hope, and ultimately pointing listeners toward the love of Christ.

Another major milestone came in 2010, when the station increased its broadcast power from 130 watts to 1,300 watts. For years, signal interference had been a challenge. This expansion changed that in a big way, improving coverage across Knox County and reaching into surrounding areas. It was a technical upgrade, yes—but also a meaningful moment for the people behind the mic. Students were part of the journey, witnessing firsthand how the station was growing its impact.

And as listening habits continued to evolve, WNZR kept moving forward.

With smartphones becoming a central part of everyday life, the station knew it needed to meet listeners where they are. That led to the development of the WNZR mobile app—making it easier than ever to tune in. Whether through Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or a quick tap on a phone, listeners can now stay connected wherever they go.

Today, the app has become a daily companion for many—at home, at work, and on the road. It’s simple, accessible, and always within reach.

Looking back, it’s clear each step—streaming, increased signal power, mobile access—was part of a bigger picture. WNZR didn’t just keep up with change. It used each moment as a way to strengthen its mission and expand its reach.

And through it all, one thing remains constant: the connection between the station and its listeners, made possible by faithful support year after year.

Click HERE to learn more about WNZR!

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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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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!

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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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WNZR’s Meet the Staff Monday w/Destini Turcotte

WNZR is excited to welcome Destini Turcotte as a new member of the radio team.

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

Originally from Boston, Massachusetts, Destini began her college journey at Eastern Nazarene College. After the school closed, she transferred to Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU), where she is now a junior making a meaningful impact across campus.

Destini serves as an on-air DJ for WNZR while also working as the Communication Department Assistant. In this role, she helps keep the department organized by ensuring equipment like cameras are returned on time and that everything stays in order behind the scenes. In addition to her work in radio, she supports the theatre department with social media and contributes to Lakeholm Viewer, showcasing her creativity and dedication to storytelling.

One of Destini’s favorite memories comes from stepping into a lead role at the last minute during a theatre production—a moment that highlights her adaptability and passion for the arts. She also enjoys campus traditions like Oaktoberfest and Sonfest. When it comes to music, her favorite artists include Josiah Queen and Forrest Frank. Outside of work and school, Destini loves tacos and burritos—especially with sour cream—and spends her weekends exploring coffee shops around Ohio with friends. Iced coffee is always her go-to.

Destini draws inspiration from Walt Disney, whose films she grew up watching. Among her favorites are Cinderella, Tangled (Rapunzel), and the more recent film Luca. A fun fact about her is that she was on a bowling team in 5th and 6th grade—and she still has her jersey to this day.

Over the summer, Destini felt a call to ministry and has since traveled to different countries as she continues seeking where God is leading her. Her favorite Bible verse, Psalm 18:17, reflects her faith journey: “He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me.” She sees this verse as a reminder of God’s protection and care throughout her life.

You can tune in to hear Destini live on WNZR on Mondays from 2–3 PM and Tuesdays from 1–2 PM.

Click HERE to check out WNZR’s website!

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WNZR’s Meet the Staff Monday with Josiah Styer

If you’ve tuned into WNZR lately, you may have heard a new voice bringing energy, authenticity, and a love for radio to the airwaves. Meet Josiah Styer, a freshman from Wooster, Ohio, who is quickly becoming a vibrant part of the MVNU campus community and the WNZR radio team.

Click HERE to hear the full interview!

Josiah chose Mount Vernon Nazarene University because of how strongly the communication, radio, and ministry departments stood out to him. As a Communications and Media major, he was looking for a place where he could grow creatively and spiritually—and MVNU checked all the boxes. Now, as an on-air DJ at WNZR, he’s getting the chance to live out that passion in real time.

His love for radio actually started long before college. Growing up, Josiah spent time listening to a variety of radio programs, and somewhere along the way, something clicked. That exposure sparked a deep interest in audio production and storytelling through sound. Fast forward to today, and he’s not just listening—he’s the one behind the mic, connecting with listeners and sharing music that matters.

When he’s not in the studio, Josiah is deeply involved in campus life. He plays percussion in both Pep Band and Jazz Band, and if there’s a game happening, chances are you’ll spot him in the student section. In fact, some of his favorite memories come from being part of the Cougar Crazies—especially themed games. One standout? Valentine’s Day, when the section was filled with red and pink, and the energy was unforgettable.

Musically, Josiah has a clear favorite right now: “Can’t Steal My Joy” by Josiah Queen. It’s a song that resonates with him on a personal level, reflecting a message of unshakable joy that aligns with his faith. And when it comes to food, nothing beats his mom’s homemade mac and cheese—a comfort classic that still holds the top spot.

Outside of music and radio, Josiah enjoys spending time outdoors, especially biking, but he’s also all about having fun—whether that’s playing games or just hanging out with friends. He values relationships deeply, and when asked about the most important person in his life, he doesn’t hesitate to say his dad. Josiah admires his dad’s energy and character and hopes to follow in his footsteps.

Here’s a fun fact: Josiah is a big fan of romantic comedies. He loves a good laugh mixed with a heartfelt story, and his favorite film is While You Were Sleeping. It’s a movie he appreciates for its humor, warmth, and timeless charm.

But beyond the fun and hobbies, Josiah also has a powerful personal story. He shared that during his early high school years, he struggled to find close friendships. That began to change during his sophomore year, especially through his involvement in youth group, where he found a genuine community of believers. That season of life shaped his faith in a meaningful way, and today, it continues to influence who he is.

One Bible passage that has stayed close to him is Psalm 13—a passage that honestly wrestles with feelings of waiting and questioning, yet ultimately returns to trust in God. It’s a reflection of both struggle and hope, something Josiah relates to deeply.

You can catch Josiah on-air every Tuesday and Thursday from 9–10 PM.

Click HERE to learn more about 90.9 FM WNZR!

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WNZR’s Meet the Staff Monday with Zane Menzie!

It’s time for Meet the Staff Monday, and this week we’re introducing Zane Menzie, one of the newest members of the WNZR radio team!

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Zane is from Marion, Ohio, and transferred to Mount Vernon Nazarene University after realizing his previous school in Columbus wasn’t the right fit. After visiting campus, he felt MVNU was the place for him and decided to make the move.

Zane joined WNZR through one of his classes and decided to give radio a try—and now you can hear him on the air Thursdays from 1–3pm. Outside the studio, he stays busy as the president of the Theatre Club, something he’s very passionate about. He even had the opportunity to direct his own play, which gave him the chance to see theatre from the other side of the curtain. Zane hopes to pursue a master’s degree in directing and producing, with dreams of becoming a professor or working with smaller theatre productions in the future.

This spring he’s also involved with the theatre production of Big Fish: The Musical, happening March 26–29. The show tells the story of a larger-than-life storyteller and the relationship between a father and son as they discover the truth behind the tall tales. You can search for MVNU Theatre tickets online if you’d like to attend.

When he’s not on the air or working with theatre, Zane enjoys making homemade sushi, playing video games on the weekends, and spending time with family and friends. His favorite song right now is “Hard Fought Hallelujah.”

One interesting fact about Zane is that he was born with nerve damage in one ear and can only hear about 25% from it. He also shared how God has been helping him grow in his faith—learning to make it his own rather than simply following the faith of his family.

Be sure to tune in and hear Zane on WNZR Thursdays from 1–3pm!

Click HERE to learn more about WNZR!

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The Morning Thing Friday Favorites – our favorite songs on WNZR

On The Morning Thing today, the focus was on the music! So our Friday Favorites featured the hosts favorite songs playing right now on WNZR.

Click HERE to hear from our hosts or click on the picture below.

You can click on the links to see the music videos for each song.

Josiah’s favorite song is Breakdown by Andrew Ripp – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zLuDljOpTk

Xander’s favorite song is Heaven On My Mind by Toby Mac – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LOSvwjI42M

Eric’s favorite song is Place In This World by for King & Country and Michael W. Smith – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SDmsRhWpsYw

Marcy’s favorite song is No Survivors by Jeremy Camp – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IkhEiGjIQkM

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