Mark talked about how God has been faithful in his life, reminding him that there’s no need to fear. Instead, he’s learned to leave everything in God’s hands and trust that He will follow through on His promises. For Mark, it comes down to something simple but powerful—God is true to His word, and all we need to do is ask.
Part of that journey took him away from Mount Vernon for a time, living in Cincinnati and serving as a part-time worship pastor. During that season, it became clear that God was calling him to pursue worship as a full-time path, and that became evident to him over time.
Now back in Mount Vernon, Mark sees how God has been at work in his story all along.
He also shared something else God has been teaching him—people aren’t drawn to faith by something we create. It’s not about what can be manufactured. Instead, it’s God who draws people to Himself.
Even in a world filled with misinformation and mistrust, Mark says he still sees a hunger for truth. And for him, that truth is found in the Bible. It’s a reminder that while everything else may change, God does not.
And through it all, Mark says God continues to prove faithful.
There’s something special about a song that doesn’t just sound good—but means something deeply personal. For Micah Tyler, that’s exactly what this year’s Lifeline theme song, “God Did It,” represents.
Micah tells WNZR’s Ethan Hershberger that the heart behind the song is simple, but powerful—God loves it when we remember. Remember His faithfulness. Remember His provision. Remember what He’s brought us through
And for Micah, that remembering has taken on a whole new depth this past year.
He shares openly about walking through the heartbreaking loss of his little brother, Daniel. In the middle of grief, questions, and pain, Micah says he has seen God remain steady and faithful. That’s not just a lyric—it’s his reality. “God Did It” became a way to mark those moments… to look back and say, even here, even now—God was working.
That’s why this year’s Lifeline theme verse hit him so hard.
Micah admits he was honestly taken aback when he first heard it. It wasn’t just a nice verse—it felt personal. Like a reminder placed directly in his path at just the right time. The kind of reminder that says, “You’re not alone in this story.”
And that leads right into one of the most meaningful lines in the song: “New mercies each morning, re-writing my story.”
For Micah, those words are a daily reset.
They remind him that no matter the struggle—or even the mistakes we’ve made—God is still writing something good. The story isn’t over. There’s still purpose. There’s still a plan. And there’s still grace for today.
Looking ahead, Micah says his prayer is simple but focused. He wants to stay centered on the mission. Not the platform. Not the numbers. Not even the music itself.
It’s about lifting up the name of Jesus in everything he does.
That perspective didn’t just appear overnight. It was shaped over time—going all the way back to his days as a youth pastor. Micah remembers encouraging students to be intentional about what they listened to, filling their lives with music that pointed them toward God.
And then something unexpected happened—God opened doors.
What started with local Christian radio eventually led to more stations, more listeners, and ultimately a record deal in Nashville. It’s a journey that makes you think of the parable in Matthew Chapter 13—the farmer scattering seeds. Micah sees Christian radio, including stations like WNZR, as part of that process. Planting seeds. Not always seeing the immediate results, but trusting that God is working beneath the surface.
And sometimes… those seeds grow in ways we never expect.
Micah shared a story that puts everything into perspective. A woman, feeling completely alone and abandoned, found herself at a breaking point. But in that moment, she heard something on the radio. A song. A message. A reminder that she wasn’t forgotten.
That moment changed everything.
She chose life—for herself and her unborn baby.
Stories like that are why Micah does what he does. Sure, people may compliment the music or his voice—but that’s not what drives him. It’s moments like those. Lives changed. Hope restored.
Because at the end of the day, the message is bigger than the music.
And if you ask Micah, it all comes back to one simple truth:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Rise and Shine 