Life moves fast. Between work, family responsibilities, appointments, and everything else that fills our calendars, it’s easy to feel like we’re always rushing from one thing to the next. Some days we barely have enough time to catch our breath—let alone pause long enough to appreciate the people around us.
On Thursday’s show, WNZR’s Eric Brown shared something simple but powerful: a list of 10 things we don’t talk about enough. The conversation was all about encouragement and improving the way we communicate with the people in our lives.
When you think about it, there are so many small phrases that can mean the world to someone. Words like “thank you,” “I appreciate you,” or “I’m proud of you” might seem ordinary to the person saying them—but to the person hearing them, they can be incredibly meaningful.
The truth is, encouragement doesn’t have to be elaborate. You don’t need a big speech or the perfect moment. Often it’s the small, genuine expressions that matter most. Taking a few seconds to tell someone you value them can completely change the tone of their day.
And here’s the interesting part: encouragement works both ways. When someone lights up your day with kindness or support, returning that appreciation can create a ripple effect. A few sincere words can strengthen relationships, build trust, and remind people they’re not invisible in the busyness of life.
Sometimes the best thing we can do is simply slow down for a moment and reflect on the good things happening around us. Gratitude—spoken out loud—can be surprisingly therapeutic. It shifts our perspective and helps us notice the people who make our lives better.
So maybe this week is a good time to start saying a few things we don’t say often enough.
Tell someone you appreciate them.
Thank someone who made your day easier.
Let someone know they matter.
You might be surprised how much those simple words mean—and how much brighter they make the day for both of you.
Click HERE to read the full story at The Odyssey.com
When WNZR’s Eric Brown and Marcy Rinehart sat down with Eric’s longtime friend Kyle Paladino, they weren’t just talking about a trip overseas—they were unpacking an experience of a lifetime. Kyle had just returned home after volunteering with Team USA at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Italy, and his stories offered a meaningful look at what happens behind the scenes of one of the world’s biggest sporting events.
Kyle shared a little of his journey leading up to this moment. He served as a physical therapist in the Zanesville area from 2002 to 2024 before relocating to Northeast Ohio for a new opportunity that also allows him to support his mom more regularly. Today, he works with ABC Therapy Limited, partnering with public and charter schools and serving adults with developmental disabilities. Recently, he even helped connect one of his Cleveland-area schools with Cleveland Heights hockey standout Layla Edwards, highlighting her historic Olympic impact and inspiring students in the process.
So how did Kyle end up volunteering for Team USA? He credits a childhood friend, Professor Charles Campisi of Baldwin Wallace University, who encouraged him to apply. Kyle went through the official Olympic volunteer portal, completed interviews, screenings, and training, arranged his travel, and—with strong support from his employer—made his way to Italy for the 2026 Games.
His role with Team USA was mostly behind the scenes, supporting athletes during what’s called the Team USA Welcome Experience, often referred to as “TUI.” Because venues and training sites were spread out—especially with Cortina located several hours from Milan—Team USA didn’t operate one central hospitality house like they did during the 2024 Summer Olympics. Instead, volunteers helped create a safe, organized space in Milan where athletes could briefly gather before heading to the Olympic Village. Kyle’s responsibilities were largely supervisory and logistical: managing the space, preventing intrusions, moving boxes, taking out trash—whatever was needed to create the best possible environment for the athletes.
Two moments made the experience especially real for him. During his very first shift, members of the figure skating team arrived while athletes from Team USA women’s hockey were also present. The welcome was deeply emotional, especially considering the hardship U.S. figure skating has endured over the past year. Kyle specifically mentioned Maxim Naumov and the tragic loss of his parents in a 2025 plane crash. The atmosphere, he said, was powerful and supportive as athletes, staff, and volunteers rallied around one another. The second unforgettable moment was the Opening Ceremony, where he felt the energy of tens of thousands cheering—not just for their own countries, but for others as well. It was a reminder that even in competition, there can be unity.
Looking back, Kyle said Team USA prepared volunteers well, and the experience matched what he expected. What stood out most was the gratitude and positivity among the volunteer community. The work felt manageable, enjoyable, and meaningful. He now encourages others to consider volunteering for future Games, including the 2028 Summer Olympics.
He also came away impressed by the athletes themselves. His biggest takeaway? They were genuinely kind and appreciative. Volunteers are trained not to ask for photos or autographs during official duties, respecting the athletes’ privacy and focus. Still, Kyle described friendly public interactions that showed just how approachable they were. He even shared a lighthearted moment involving the curling team—he accidentally wore a curling-themed shirt on the wrong day but later got to show it to them, and they loved it. Moments like that, he said, revealed the athletes’ warmth and humor.
Of course, Eric and Marcy couldn’t let him go without asking about the food. Kyle admitted he’s not necessarily a “foodie,” but he enjoys trying whatever looks amazing. Breakfast often meant pastries—especially the cornetto, similar to a croissant, filled with chocolate, fruit, jam, or even cinnamon. Lunch usually involved sandwiches stacked with Italian meats and cheeses, often chosen simply by pointing at what looked best. Dinners leaned toward pasta and pizza, with dishes like risotto and carbonara making the list. And since Milan is known for its chocolate, he made sure to bring some home for friends and family.
Thanks to a lighter volunteer schedule than expected, Kyle was also able to explore. He spent time in Milan and took a day trip to Turin, host of the 2006 Winter Olympics, where he toured the royal palace and admired the Piedmont region near the mountains. He ventured into Switzerland to ride the famous Bernina “red train” through the Alps, stopping in St. Moritz. In Milan, he visited the breathtaking Milan Cathedral—the iconic Duomo seen so often in Olympic broadcasts. He was struck by its centuries-long construction and the prominent statue of the Virgin Mary atop the cathedral. Milan maintains a tradition of placing additional Virgin Mary statues on other tall buildings so the Duomo remains symbolically dominant in the skyline.
From late January through early February, Kyle packed in sightseeing, service, and once-in-a-lifetime memories. Reflecting on it all, he said volunteering changed how he sees the Olympics. Watching on television is one thing. Standing in a crowd of roughly 75,000 at the Opening Ceremony—knowing only about 10 people personally but feeling connected to everyone—is something entirely different. The shared cheering, the unity among nations, the emotional weight of the moment—it made the global competition feel deeply human.
For anyone interested in volunteering at a future Olympic Games, Kyle recommends starting at the official Olympic website and looking for volunteer opportunities, especially as information for Los Angeles 2028 becomes available. His message was simple: it’s truly the trip—and the experience—of a lifetime. And volunteering is one powerful way to help others perform at their very best.
Click HERE to learn more to be an Olympic volunteer in LA in 2028!
Here are just a few of the pics from Kyle’s Trip! (source: Kyle Paladino)
Downtown Mount Vernon’s growth is driven by people who invest their time, talent, and heart into the community—and on January 23rd, Experience Mount Vernon celebrated those individuals and organizations at its Annual Awards and Investor Reception at the Woodward Opera House.
From lifetime service and volunteer leadership to outstanding local businesses, community beautification, and nonprofit impact, the evening highlighted the stories behind downtown’s momentum. Honorees included John Nixon, Holly Krajenski, Lisa Lloyd, Happy Bean Coffee Shop, Burrata Woodfired, CES Credit Union, the Knox County Land Bank, and Habitat for Humanity of Knox County—each recognized for helping shape a more vibrant, connected Mount Vernon.
The Walter Rudin Downtown Lifetime Achievement Award – Sponsored by Park National Bank:The Walter Rudin Award is presented annually to an individual who has shown exceptional dedication to the revitalization and enhancement of downtown Mount Vernon and its surrounding community. This prestigious award honors those who, through their years of service and commitment, have made noteworthy contributions that have positively impacted the growth and vibrancy of downtown Mount Vernon. Recipients of this award are recognized not only for their efforts in community engagement and support but also for their role in advancing the Experience Mount Vernon initiative, which aims to promote local culture, businesses, and events. This award serves as a testament to the recipient’s lasting influence and unwavering commitment to making downtown Mount Vernon a better place to live and visit.
WNZR’s Joe Rinehart spoke with John Nixon, recipient of the Walter Rudin Lifetime Achievement Award. Nixon expressed humility and gratitude for the honor and reflected on a lifetime of service in Mount Vernon’s arts and community projects. He credited faith, family, and friendships as guiding principles and shared how his early experiences in technical production led to decades of involvement in local events, organizations, and cultural initiatives.
Spirit of Heritage Volunteer of the Year Award – Sponsored by Huntington Bank: The Spirit of Heritage Volunteer of the Year Award honors an outstanding individual whose selfless dedication and tireless efforts have made a significant impact on our community. This award recognizes a volunteer who goes above and beyond to support local initiatives, events, and organizations, embodying the spirit of service and community engagement. Through their unwavering commitment, this individual inspires others to get involved and fosters a culture of giving back in Mount Vernon. The recipient of this award exemplifies the true meaning of volunteerism, demonstrating passion, compassion, and a profound love for our community, making a lasting difference in the lives of others.
WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart spoke with Holly Krajenski, recipient of the Spirit of Heritage Volunteer of the Year award. Krajenski shared that volunteering has become a meaningful family tradition involving her children and reflected on her service as a board member and events committee chair for Experience Mount Vernon. She highlighted her involvement in downtown events and encouraged others to get involved, emphasizing the positive impact volunteerism has on the community.
(Also listen to Holly’s Kids ask their mom for something very important during the interview)
Legacy Service Award in Honor of Lisa Lloyd (Inaugural Award)- Presented by the Experience Mount Vernon Staff
The Legacy Service Award recognizes an individual whose extraordinary commitment, leadership, and long-term dedication have shaped the success and advancement of Experience Mount Vernon. This award honors a person who has invested countless hours, energy, and passion into strengthening the organization, supporting its mission, championing its initiatives, and ensuring its continued impact in the community.
Given at the discretion of the Experience Mount Vernon staff and not necessarily presented every year, the Legacy Service Award in Honor of Lisa Lloyd celebrates those whose service reflects uncommon devotion and a lasting influence on the organization’s effectiveness and future. Recipients of this award embody the spirit of stewardship, consistency, and personal investment that help Experience Mount Vernon thrive.
WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart spoke with Lisa Lloyd, recipient of the Legacy Service Award. Lloyd reflected on her twelve years of service with Experience Mount Vernon, including roles as treasurer and president. She emphasized the importance of giving back to the community and shared her excitement about the continued growth and transformation of downtown Mount Vernon.
Small Business of the Year – Sponsored by The Mount Vernon Grand Hotel: The Small Business of the Year Award is given to an Investor or downtown business with 10 or fewer employees. This award celebrates an outstanding local business that demonstrates exceptional dedication to our community, commitment to customer service, and innovative business practices. This award recognizes a small business that not only contributes to the local economy but also embodies the spirit and values of Mount Vernon, enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. The recipient of this award is a leader in their field, an advocate for positive growth, and a valued member of the Mount Vernon community, setting an example through resilience, creativity, and unwavering community support.
WNZR’s Eric Brown spoke with Clayton Christopher, a manager at Happy Bean Coffee Shop, following the announcement of the Small Business of the Year award. Christopher expressed pride in the recognition and credited owner Jill Ballenger’s leadership and commitment to the community. He highlighted the business’s growth from its downtown location to a second shop at Mount Vernon Nazarene University and emphasized the strong connection Happy Bean has built with both students and the local community.
Click HERE for more information about Happy Bean Coffee.
Mid-Size Business of the Year – Sponsored by Knox Community Hospital: The Mid-Size Business of the Year Award is given to an Investor or downtown business with 11-49 employees. This award honors a business that exemplifies excellence and dedication within our community. This award is presented to a mid-sized business that has shown remarkable leadership, commitment to innovation, and a passion for supporting the Mount Vernon area. Through their outstanding service, growth, and contributions, this business enriches the local economy and enhances the community’s vitality. The recipient is recognized as a role model for its dedication to quality, and community engagement, inspiring others to build a stronger, more vibrant Mount Vernon.
WNZR’s Eric Brown spoke with Erica Grigsby, owner of Burrata Woodfired, after she received the Medium Business of the Year award. Grigsby described the recognition as emotional and meaningful, reflecting the hard work of her team.
She shared that Burrata Woodfired, located just north of downtown Mount Vernon, offers wood-fired pizza and scratch-made Italian dishes and recently celebrated its two-year anniversary. She also expressed gratitude for the community’s support.
Click HERE for more information about Burrata Woodfired.
Large Business/Corporate Investor of the Year – Sponsored by Flappers Bar & Grille: The Large/Corporate Business of the Year Award is given to an Investor or downtown business with 50+ employees. This award recognizes an exceptional organization whose influence and dedication significantly benefit the Mount Vernon community. This award is presented to a large or corporate business that demonstrates outstanding leadership, community involvement, and a commitment to responsible growth. By fostering local partnerships, supporting community initiatives, and investing in the area’s economic vitality, this business exemplifies what it means to be a true community partner. The recipient of this award is celebrated for setting a high standard in corporate citizenship, strengthening Mount Vernon, and inspiring others to contribute meaningfully to the community.
WNZR’s Eric Brown spoke with Mike Copley, president and CEO of CES Credit Union, following the announcement of the Large Employer of the Year award. Copley described the recognition as an honor and highlighted CES Credit Union’s long history in Mount Vernon and its commitment to community involvement through partnerships with local organizations. He noted that the award reflects decades of service to members and the community.
Click HERE for more information about CES Credit Union
Community Pride Beautification Award – Sponsored by Griffin Insurance: The Community Pride Beautification Award celebrates a business or organization that has made a remarkable impact on the beauty and charm of Downtown Mount Vernon. This award is given to a business that has shown exceptional dedication to enhancing the downtown aesthetic through thoughtful renovations, beautification efforts, or creative design. Their commitment to creating an inviting and vibrant environment not only enriches the area’s appeal but also fosters a sense of pride among residents and visitors alike. The recipient of this award exemplifies what it means to invest in the heart of our community, making Downtown Mount Vernon a more attractive and welcoming place for all.
WNZR’s Joe Rinehart spoke with Sam Filkins of the Knox County Land Bank, recipient of the Community Pride Downtown Beautification Award. Filkins highlighted the Land Bank’s mission to transform vacant and abandoned properties into community assets. He shared updates on major redevelopment projects, including the Heartland Commerce Park and the former Mount Vernon News building, and emphasized the role of collaboration in strengthening neighborhoods and driving economic growth.
Click HERE for more information about the Knox County Landbank
Non-profit of the Year – Sponsored by Kidwell & Cunningham: The Non-Profit of the Year Award is presented to an investor or downtown Non-Profit Organization. This honors a remarkable organization that tirelessly serves and uplifts our community. This award recognizes a non-profit whose dedication, compassion, and impactful initiatives make a profound difference in the lives of Mount Vernon’s residents. Through their commitment to service, advocacy, and positive change, this organization embodies the spirit of community and enriches Mount Vernon as a whole. The recipient of this award is celebrated for their selflessness, resilience, and unwavering dedication to a better Mount Vernon, setting a powerful example of what it means to serve.
WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart spoke with Sarah Scott, director of community engagement for Habitat for Humanity of Knox County, after the organization was named Nonprofit of the Year. Scott reflected on a year of growth and transition, including the move to downtown Mount Vernon. She highlighted the organization’s partnerships with local businesses and community groups and reaffirmed Habitat’s mission to strengthen neighborhoods through housing and volunteer engagement.
Click HERE for more information about Habitat for Humanity.
Click HERE for more information about Experience Mount Vernon!
WNZR’s Eric Brown speaks with Stacey Keyser with Flying Horse Farms. Stacey talks about the camp located near Mount Gilead and is a medical specialty camp. They serve kids with chronic and serious illnesses that can’t go to traditional camp settings.
She talks about how the camps has grown in 15 years and has served over 10,000 campers including having family camps in both the spring and fall.
Stacey says camp is not just good medicine for kids and families to heal and grow, but it is great medicine. She says camp gives these kids a sense of belonging and just focus on being a kid.
She says this past summer marked the most camp sessions in the camp history including adding more opportunities for family camps.
Stacey says 1/3rd of campers experience camp for the first time at Flying Horse Farms and she talks about being a part of these kids “firsts.” She said they see as many tears from parents as they do from the campers.
She says that trust is a huge part of making the kids and families trust the staff.
She said they have campers from 15 different states due in part because camp is COST FREE thanks to donors of the farms.
Stacey says that demand exceeded availability this year and explains who their new rolling admissions works and how it allows more campers to attend camp.
She says that family camp welcomed 19 families this summer. She says when a child experiences an illness, the whole family is impacted. When families come together, the entire family can bond with different families, and it can grow into friendship.
Stacye says they had over 300 volunteers contributed this summer and how they build the “magic” for campers so they and their families can have fun and are the “Lifeline of what they do.
Stacey says that Flying Horse Farms recently joined the ACA’s Program quality cohort and explains how that benefits the campers and their families.
Stacey explains a unique ceremony they do at Flying Horse Farms to celebrate the campers dreams, hopes and essentially a way for you to pray for the Farms
Click HERE to find out more about Flying Horse Farms!
He’s a worship arts major and has a minor in youth and family ministry; he’s hoping to become a worship pastor when he graduates. He talks about how he got into music in 7th grade and around high school he decided to go all in on music.
Some of Tyler’s biggest influences in music are bands like ‘Colony house’ and ‘Sons of Steven Curtis Chapman’ and it inspires him for when he writes his music. For a long time, his style was acoustic guitar, it wasn’t until he started making his second album that he started to find his style of Rock music. He draws inspiration from his own personal life experiences to come up with his song lyrics, he also likes to write songs about the bible.
Tyler talks about what he’s excited to see at Sonfest, he’s excited to see people who are impacted by the music outside of his regular friends and family, it helps inspire him. Tyler Maddux is opening at 1:35pm at Sonfest on September 20th.
Tyler talks about his new album he released in late January, he’s really proud of it because of how it defined the sound that he like to use. You can stay connected to Tyler Maddux on Instagram, Facebook, and on TikTok. Tyler talks about the purpose behind writing his music, he likes to write about how he feels at the time of his writing; he’s getting married soon and so a lot of his music he’s writing is about how he feels about that. He’s got a few songs he’s been writing recently and a few songs at Sonfest and hopes to record and release them soon.
Tyler goes over some rapid-fire questions, his favorite worship song is ‘tear my house down’ by Chris Renzema. The first concert he ever went to was a ‘Colony house’ concert in college in his freshman year. He’s a night owl, he likes cats, he likes coffee and he normally gets a caramel ice late, his favorite snack is cheez-its and his favorite movie is called ‘about time’.
He is excited to start the 2025-26 school year and is happy to see the students back on campus and out in the community.
He says enrollment is growing in both traditional and non-traditional students and they have added 13 new faculty members.
Dr. Castleman talks about the restructure of the university into two schools. CAPS stands for College of Arts and Professional Studies for non-traditional students. CAST which is the College of Arts and Sciences is the traditional 18–22-year-old students. They also restructured the deans and administrative roles of the staff.
Dr. Castleman talks about the 4 C’s which was a focus on the recent Faculty and Staff Awards earlier this month: conviction, conversation, care, and connection.
He explains how the 4 C’s are a centerpiece for the MVNU community.
Dr. Castleman shares a special bible verse as a focus for the university this year from Isaiah 43:19 (NIV), “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
He says that the cabinet helped determined the verse because MVNU is stepping outside the normal doom and gloom at other campuses and that God is doing something new here at MVNU and we are changing the world.
Dr. Castleman gives an update on the construction at the Chapel. He said there was an issue with carpeting over the summer and that put the project behind. He said God provided both in time and financially to help get the campaign finalized.
Dr. Castleman gives an explanation on the opening of the entrance at front of campus that had a security hut. He said that he received some feedback and believed that the entrance needed to be re-opened for several reasons.
He also gives an update with the Hunter Wright hub in downtown Mount Vernon.
Dr. Castleman gives an update on his plans are for the fall and he is planning on staying on campus this fall as some transitions take place and is getting back in the classroom.
Dr. Castleman gives some words of encouragement to the students, faculty and staff.
Dr. Castleman also explains how we can pray for the students, faculty, staff and university this fall.
Click HERE to find out more about Mount Vernon Nazarene University.
On The Morning Thing on WNZR Tuesday, co-host Eric Brown shared a series of uplifting, encouraging, and downright cool stories as part of our Good News Tuesday.
Throughout the morning, we brought you heartwarming and positive news stories designed to brighten your day and lift your spirits.
Sharing good news helps balance the often overwhelming stream of negative headlines, offering hope and reminding us that there is still kindness, progress, and joy in the world. It can inspire positive action, improve mental well-being, and foster a sense of community and resilience.
We featured a variety of these inspiring stories all morning long to bring encouragement and a smile to your face:
🧠 Wisdom Teeth and Stem Cells – Who Knew? Turns out those pesky wisdom teeth we all dread might be way more useful than we thought. Researchers in Spain have discovered that the soft center inside wisdom teeth—called dental pulp—contains powerful stem cells that could one day help heal bones, hearts, and even brain tissue. These cells can actually turn into neuron-like cells that show electrical activity, similar to real brain cells. Scientists are even testing them in mice with heart issues, and early results look promising. And the best part? Since over 10 million wisdom teeth are pulled each year, collecting them could be as easy as tossing them in a vial and sending them off to a lab. So before you toss yours in the trash, you might want to think twice—they could be your body’s future backup plan.
🎓 Small Town, Big Scholarships In Swanville, Minnesota—a tiny town of just 328 people—graduation means more than just a diploma. Every single year for the past 30 years, the whole town has chipped in to raise money for scholarships for its seniors. Think chili cookoffs, bingo nights, bake sales—you name it. What started as a $166 gift back in the day just hit new heights: This year, one lucky grad walked away with $5,000. That’s a whole semester of college, right there. It’s more than just money—it’s about making sure their kids know they’re supported, wherever life takes them. In Swanville, it’s clear: once a Bulldog, always a Bulldog.
🥾 Detention? Let’s Take a Hike At Morse High School in Maine, detention looks a little different. Forget sitting in a classroom staring at the wall—here, misbehaving students can choose “hiking detention.” That’s right. If you skip class or mouth off to a teacher, you might find yourself lacing up your boots and heading into the woods. School counselor Leslie Trundy came up with the idea after an outdoor ed conference, and now it’s a hit. Students say the walking clears their heads and helps them think straight. Not everyone’s sold—some parents think it’s too soft—but the kids are showing up, breathing fresh air, and maybe even learning a thing or two. Sounds like a win.
Click HERE for more POSITIVE stories from the Good News Network!
Rise and Shine 