What happens when a career in high-profile car auctions intersects with a deep commitment to family and faith? Join us on the Love Fort Wayne podcast as Jeff King and Mitch Kruse share their personal stories of gratitude, growth, and the enriching journey of leadership in Fort Wayne. Mitch Kruse opens up about his unique upbringing in an auctioneer family, his educational background, and a transformative career moment with Tom Monaghan of Domino's Pizza. This episode is rich with life lessons on balancing professional ambitions with family priorities, providing a heartfelt look at the blessings of family life and the power of mentorship.

As Mitch reflects on the emotional journey of watching his children grow and leave for college, he reveals the profound joys found in each stage of life and the fulfillment of investing in future generations. Discover how a Christian education shaped his family’s daily life and the importance of church and community support in fostering spiritual growth. Listen to the inspiring story behind the TV show "Restoration Road" and how it led Mitch to author books filled with wisdom and insights aimed at helping others navigate their own paths.

Leadership wisdom takes center stage as Mitch discusses principles rooted in the teachings of Proverbs. Emphasizing humility as the cornerstone, he shares how Solomon’s wisdom provides a practical blueprint for leadership that melds God’s heart with everyday street smarts. Amidst a fast-paced world, learn the importance of slowing down to be present with others and cultivating deep connections through the Holy Spirit. As we welcome November, gratitude emerges as a central theme, reminding leaders of the power of thankfulness in their journey. Don't miss this episode that promises to inspire and guide emerging leaders through the essence of saying "yes" to God's call.

What drives someone to dedicate their life to supporting youth and families in their community? Amos Norman, Executive Director of the Renaissance Point YMCA, shares his inspiring journey from his decade-long tenure with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Fort Wayne to his impactful initiatives at the YMCA. Learn about the transformative Midnight Basketball League, a unique program providing a safe space for young people and addressing health disparities through integrated health consultations.

Discover the art of guiding young people in leadership and character building as Amos dives into the importance of patience, understanding, and allowing kids to develop their identities. Through personal anecdotes, he opens up about his transparent relationship with his son, underscoring the value of humility, vulnerability, and balanced feedback. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the enduring power of community, leadership, and the significant impact of nurturing our youth.

What if a major detour in your career path could lead you to your true calling? Join us as we sit down with Pastor Tony from Northeast Church in Fort Wayne, who shares his incredible faith journey from accounting to ministry. Learn how a significant spiritual reawakening redirected his life and how he now serves with a vision of bringing people together to live the beautiful way of Jesus, all while raising a family with his wife, Hannah, and their four children. Tony provides heartfelt insights into the power of mentorship and the vital role of encouragement throughout his transformative journey.

Get an insider's look into the meticulous art of crafting sermons, straight from Tony who's mastered the process. From the initial steps of starting with a blank sheet of cardstock to seeking divine inspiration and weaving in relatable stories, Tony reveals the secrets behind his compelling messages. Discover why he believes practicing sermons out loud is crucial for internalizing the message and ensuring it resonates with the congregation. Plus, understand the value of stepping back occasionally to live out teachings and allowing diverse voices to enrich the community.

As we explore the challenges and rewards of ministry leadership, Tony opens up about the importance of authenticity, the risks associated with fame, and the dangers of isolation. Feel the liberation as Tony describes shifting the focus of Sunday gatherings to drawing near to God. Hear about the dynamic faith movement among young adults in Fort Wayne and initiatives like Love Fort Wayne and One City Week, which foster unity and collaboration among churches. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom, encouragement, and a vision for a united and thriving faith community.

Overcoming the odds is a story we've all heard, but few have lived it quite like Tomi Cardin, founder and CEO of Redemption House. Her personal journey from recovery to revolutionizing support for women post-incarceration is nothing short of inspirational. Throughout the episode, we peel back the layers of Tomi's mission to provide a sanctuary for those in the throes of re-entry, and how her faith-driven approach is not only reshaping lives but also collaborating closely with the criminal justice system. It's a conversation that highlights the profound necessity of transitional housing and the pivotal role it plays in the landscape of sentencing reforms and overcrowded prisons.

Touching on the lives transformed by Redemption House, we recount the compelling narrative of a Delaware County woman whose initial skepticism of the program's faith elements eventually became her cornerstone of support. The episode culminates in an exploration of the synergetic spirit thriving within Allen County’s social service network, where nonprofit leaders unite with integrity and shared vision. We discuss the intricacies of financial stewardship, the importance of an abundance mindset, and the power of vulnerability among leaders in the nonprofit community. Join us as we celebrate this tapestry of redemption, volunteerism, and community partnership, and discover the true impact of supporting organizations dedicated to changing the narrative around addiction, recovery, and societal reintegration.

Embracing the heart of servant leadership, John Bowen illustrates through his own life how faith and dedication to service can shape one's approach to the demanding world of healthcare. As John peels back the layers of his journey, inspired by his father's ministry and his mother's teaching, he reveals the intricate dance of fulfilling professional obligations while cherishing family moments, such as the simple joys of morning coffee with his wife, or the school runs with his children. His narratives are a testament to the power of strong family ties and the importance of nurturing relationships at home to support a life of service.

The art of connection takes center stage as John delves into the transformative nature of networking within leadership spaces like the Global Leadership Summit. He paints a vivid picture of the resilience displayed by healthcare professionals, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how Parkview has invested in its people through initiatives like the Leadership Institute. Initiatives that have facilitated bonding and growth in the midst of crisis, with virtual huddles becoming an unexpected beacon of unity and progress. These stories serve as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is an opportunity to strengthen the bonds that hold teams together.

Our conversation with John culminates in a reflection on the profound lessons of leadership that resonate beyond the corridors of healthcare. John urges us to carry these gems into our daily lives, encouraging a leadership approach grounded in authenticity and service. As we bid farewell, we express our gratitude for the rich dialogue and invite our listeners to carry forward these insights into their communities. Stay tuned for our monthly episodes, where we continue to bring transformative conversations that inspire action and growth in every facet of life.

Is it possible to catapult your career in just two days? Hear firsthand from Chris Ratay, Vice President of Hospitality at Honeywell Arts and Entertainment, about his transformative experience at the Global Leadership Summit. Chris shares how two days at the summit last year provided him with invaluable insights and golden nuggets of wisdom that have profoundly influenced his leadership journey. Discover the importance of self-reflection and the impact of asking, "What's it like to be on the other side of you?" in your leadership approach.

This season four kickoff episode of the Love Fort Wayne podcast isn't just about leadership development; it's about fostering community connections. Chris emphasizes the unique networking opportunities at the Honeywell Center, where local leaders come together to support and mentor each other. Learn why these connections are crucial for tackling common challenges and building a thriving community. Don’t miss out on Chris’s passionate advocacy for the summit and how it can be a game-changer for your personal and professional growth.

When Eric Wood walked through our studio doors, we knew his story was one that needed to be told. At just 14, a meaningful encounter set his heart on a trajectory toward pastoral service, and he hasn't looked back since. Throughout this episode, Eric, executive director of NeighborLink, lays bare his journey of faith, ministry, and community impact that is sure to ignite your own passion for service. He shares the transformative power of grace that has shaped not only his life but the entire Fort Wayne community. It's a tale of worship, of miracles, and of a shared commitment to service that transcends the ordinary.

Imagine a ministry where neighboring isn't just an act, it's a lifestyle—a calling that resonates with the simplicity of Jesus's approach to reaching out. Eric Wood embodies this through NeighborLink, inspiring us with stories of profound forgiveness and the agility to serve others with a vulnerability that draws us closer to the heart of Jesus. We unravel the art of listening before acting and the necessity of humility and presence in our everyday interactions. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of what it truly means to love your neighbor, stripping back the layers to reveal how we can embody compassion and servitude in our own communities.

As we close, Eric offers a vision of unity within the church that speaks louder than any sermon. Through NeighborLink's initiatives, like Camp NeighborLink, he showcases the importance of building relationships and serving together from a young age. The ripple effect of a single act of service, such as mowing a lawn, can foster deep connections and reciprocal benefits. It's a powerful reminder that our oneness as believers is essential for portraying the gospel message with clarity. So join us, not just to hear Eric's story, but to become part of a movement where love for one another is our clearest testimony to the world.

When Chris Norman and Michelle Adams joined us, we discovered the heartbeat of Fort Wayne's spiritual life—a city being reshaped by the quiet, yet powerful force of prayer. Chris, a long-standing member of Grace Gathering, and Michelle, a former dental industry professional turned PrayerWorks administrator, share their poignant narratives, inviting us all to witness the communal metamorphosis taking place. Through their experiences, we grasp how the dedication to prayer is not only transforming individual lives, but also fostering a unity across our city that mirrors Jesus’s vision for a connected and loving community.

This discussion transcends mere storytelling, as we explore the tangible ways prayer has strengthened the bonds within our community. From Officer Cody's initiative that brought Bible study into the police department to the woman who found solace in our prayer room amid marital strife, these are real-life affirmations of the spiritual renaissance blossoming in Fort Wayne. These narratives not only warm the heart but also serve as a beacon of light for those seeking evidence of prayer's impact on both personal growth and communal support.

Yet, prayer is a journey, and like any journey, there are both peaks and valleys. Reflecting on the importance of embracing our limitations and leaning into God's grace. We also delve into the practical ways our listeners can engage with PrayerWorks, emphasizing how every act of service, whether leading worship, hosting, or giving financially, is vital to the lifeblood of our spiritual community. Join us for an episode that promises to enrich your soul and offer new perspectives on the transformative power of prayer in action.