Category: WNZR Staff

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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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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WNZR’s Meet the Staff Monday with Naomi Kinne

Senior Naomi Kinne is no stranger to WNZR. She has been serving as our Graphic Designer for the past year, but she has now joined our WNZR On Air Staff!

Naomi is from Circleville, Ohio and is a Graphic Design Major. Her minor is Communication and Digital Media. Naomi enjoys public speaking and is excited to get the opportunity to use those skills on the radio. She is also serving as the social media manager for the MVNU Basketball and Cheer Teams.

Noami shares some of her favorite memories on campus including the Block Party. She talks about making memories with other WNZR Staff Members on a trip to the CMB University Conference (Christian Music Broadcasters).

Naomi’s favorite artists at WNZR include Elevation Worship, Josiah Queen and Forrest Frank. She shared other favorites including Mexican food and her 3 sisters. Naomi is the oldest!

Naomi’s life verse is Colossians 3:2. It reminds her to focus on eternity and focus on God.  

Catch her on air Fridays 2pm – 3pm.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation or click on the picture below.

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The Morning Thing Friday Favorites – we celebrate Spring Break!

Today, we wrapped up the first of 2 weeks of Spring Break at Mount Vernon Nazarene University. For our Friday Favorites, The Morning Thing hosts shared how they are celebrating break.

Click HERE to hear from Marcy, Josiah, Eric and Xander OR click on the picture below.

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WNZR’s Meet the Staff Monday with Isabel Johnson

Meet Isabel Johnson, one of the newest voices you’ll hear on WNZR!

Click HERE to hear the full conversation between Isabel and WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart!

Isabel grew up in Bucyrus, and she’s been around MVNU since she was little. She decided to attend MVNU, because she felt the community was open and focused on faith. She is a double major in Music Performance and Communication and Digital Media at MVNU.

Isabel wants to pursue radio broadcasting so joining WNZR was a no brainer. She also wants to write songs and tell stories in her future.

When it comes to music, one of Isabel’s favorite artists is Josiah Queen. She also loves hearing Black Sheep by Ben Fuller.

Outside the studio, Isabel is involved in collagens corral which is an ensemble choir, and she is excited for their upcoming performance, Big Fish. Her favorite food is fried chicken with some mac and cheese and fries. On the weekend, she likes to read, make crafts, and read her Bible.

Isabel shared how God has been helping her with her self-worth, and how he has helped through tough times. She feels now that she is unique and loved by God! Her two favorite verses are Psalms 46:5 and Psalms 46:10a:

“God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.” – Psalms 46:5

““Be still, and know that I am God” – Psalms 46:10a

You can catch Isabel on-air Tuesday nights from 11 p.m. to midnight and on Friday from 11 a.m. to noon.

Click HERE to learn more about WNZR!

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