Love Fort Wayne Podcast

When you witness someone trading the security of a business career for the unpredictable tides of ministry, it stops you in your tracks. Chris Todia's extraordinary leap from the corporate ladder to the heart of Youth for Christ is precisely the tale that unfolds this week. His mother's legacy of selflessness and service sparked a flame that Chris now carries, lighting the way for the youth of Fort Wayne. Together, we travel through his personal evolution and the profound effects of a calling that reaches beyond oneself to ignite change in a community.Fort Wayne's youth aren't just statistics; they're vibrant souls, each with a story yearning to be heard. Our conversation traverses the various terrains of youth ministry—from school campuses to city streets, and even detention centers—where Chris and his team strive to make every young person feel seen, understood, and valued. It's not just about sharing a message; it's about embodying it, creating a space where the truth of the gospel and the pulse of contemporary youth culture coalesce. Through Chris's eyes, witness the small, potent acts of kindness that build trust and the larger community initiatives that are reshaping young lives.Leadership isn't a solo sprint; it's a relay race of vision and partnership. In this episode, we unwrap the fabric of collaboration that's redefining how we nurture our future generations. By leaning into the strengths of various organizations, Fort Wayne is witnessing a synergy that promises to envelop every young heart in the warmth of the gospel's embrace. Yet, the mission doesn't end at inspiration—it's a call to action. We conclude by discussing the indispensable support that powers youth ministry, from prayers to volunteer work to financial contributions. Immerse yourself in this heartfelt invitation to play a role in the transformative journey of our community's young people.

Humility may not make the headlines, but it's a game-changer in the world of leadership, and we're bringing it to the forefront. Josh Wymore opens up about his personal struggle to embrace humility and how the pursuit of this virtue has revolutionized his decision-making and relationships. Our conversation pivots to bust myths about humility, offering tangible strategies for any leader to incorporate this quality, regardless of their background. If you're ready for practical steps that lead to intentional growth, this episode provides the tools to build a leadership style grounded in humility.As the baton of leadership passes from one generation to the next, the humility of both parties plays a pivotal role. This episode illuminates the dynamic that unfolds when experienced leaders collaborate with fresh faces, embracing shifts in culture and the invigorating potential of mentorship. Through heartwarming anecdotes, we celebrate the mutual respect and learning that blooms from a humble approach to generational transitions. For those guiding teams in Fort Wayne or anywhere else, these stories underscore the enduring influence of humility on an organization's evolution and legacy.

Have you ever wondered what beats at the very heart of Fort Wayne? Our latest Love Fort Wayne podcast episode brings forth an intimate conversation with two distinguished pastors, Dr. Dave Tilma and Dr. Luther Whitfield. Their narrative weaves through the city's spiritual climate, drawing on Dr. Tilma's recent move to the bustling urban culture and Dr. Whitfield's lifelong roots that run deep within the community's soil. Their shared passion for Fort Wayne and its residents shines as they recount the joys and challenges of their ministries and the impact of their family legacies.Fort Wayne is not just a city; it's a community rich in diversity and spirit, where churches stand as cornerstones of hope and engagement. This episode delves into the Love Fort Wayne initiative, a beacon of unity in the COVID-19 storm, rallying the Christian community to rise to the economic and social challenges. Our dialogue with Dr. Tilma and Dr. Whitfield reveals how local churches are transcending traditional roles, fostering a culture of transparent leadership and becoming sanctuaries of spiritual healing. They share inspiring stories of how living missionally isn't confined within church walls—it's a call to action in all areas of life.But what of those tasked with the heavy mantle of spiritual leadership? We turn a reflective eye on the emotional toll it takes on pastors like our guests and discuss the critical importance of self-care, rest, and Sabbath. They open up about their personal journeys toward finding balance, their strategies for recharging, and the strength they draw from a network of supportive peers. This introspective chapter is a heartfelt reminder that even the shepherds need a sanctuary, and in Fort Wayne, they find it by lifting each other up. Join us as we share in a dialogue that offers a rare glimpse into the lives of those leading our spiritual communities.We are also delighted to introduce Eric Hall, who contributed a captivating and inaugural short midway through the discussion. The episode not only provides substantial content but also dives into the meaningful topic of expressing love for our pastors in Fort Wayne. Eric's contribution adds a valuable perspective, making this podcast a well-rounded and enriching experience for listeners seeking both depth and diversity in their content consumption.

When the heart of a city beats together, the rhythm resonates in every corner of the community. Fort Wayne pulses with such a rhythm, and I've had the privilege of witnessing the symphony of change since joining Love Fort Wayne in 2013. The stories Brenda Gerber-Vincent and I share in this episode capture the essence of a united city—a city that's seen remarkable growth and transformation through love. Our conversation weaves through the aspirations and concrete steps we are taking to expand our reach throughout the city, ensuring that every neighborhood feels the warmth of our collective embrace.The tapestry of a community is stitched together by its leaders and the relationships they nurture. In our discussion with Tom Shepard, we unearth the layers of leadership within a family business and the beauty of evolving alongside a team. Pastors Ryan Cochran and Anthony Payton lend their voices to the conversation, highlighting the church's evolving role in modern society and the irreplaceable value of genuine connections in a world often skewed by the digital lens of social media. These narratives aren't just testament to the power of vulnerability and prayer—they're an invitation to you, our listeners, to be part of a movement that's reshaping our community with every act of compassion and understanding.As the episode unfolds, we celebrate the emergence of new leaders who are courageously stepping up to tackle some of our toughest challenges, from human trafficking to addiction and mental health. The insights gleaned from my own leadership awakening at the GLS to the communal service spearheaded by Pastor Quincy McGee with Lifeway Bible Fellowship and Associated Churches underscore the transformative power of service and connection. This episode isn't just a reflection of the past; it's a clarion call to action, urging us all to lend our hands and hearts to build an even more vibrant and loving Fort Wayne.

One thing we're sure of is that we all love our city, Fort Wayne. But how can we come together to make it even better? In an inspirational chat with Pastor Quincy McGee of Lifeway Bible Fellowship and Associated Churches, we find out. Raised by parents who dedicated their lives to the community, Quincy carries on their legacy, highlighting the importance of unity, compassion, and collaboration.Quincy passionately shares about the significant role his church plays in the local community. With heartwarming stories of helping neighbors with repairs or participating in local school activities, he exemplifies the essentiality of community engagement. Housing, hunger, and mentorship for mothers are urgent needs in our community, Quincy calls on the churches to step up and help fill these gaps. We don't stop there, we go further to explore how different churches can collaborate to serve the wider community. Quincy spills the beans on some impressive initiatives led by Associated Churches, from adopting military families during the holidays to the Rising Stars program. He presents simple steps for churches to be more engaged, such as mentoring mothers, providing meals, and participating in food drives. Join us as we learn about commitment, wisdom, and genuine care for those in need. Tune in, Fort Wayne, let's create a thriving community together.

What if there was a way to make a substantial difference in your community, and it all started with something as simple as pre-K education and outreach ministries? Bernice Bush from Building Blocks Outreach joins us today to recount her 17-year journey of tireless service to the Brook Mill Court Complex community.Bernice's compelling story takes us on a tour of her transformative work, ranging from her preschool program to a back-to-school event assisting families with free school supplies and backpacks. And then, there's the Empower Women Now ministry, a beacon of support for the community's mothers. We'll also explore the inspiring story of a young woman who, with faith, community support, and forgiveness, rose to achieve her dreams. As we appreciate the teachers and educators who make a difference in our community, we'll learn about Bernice's exceptional efforts to support her students. This episode serves as a heartfelt reminder of the importance of love, gratitude, and appreciation. Listen, be inspired, and discover how you can make an impact of your own.

On this episode of Love Fort Wayne podcast, we're thrilled to bring you a heart-to-heart conversation with a man who's turning pain into purpose, Angelo Mante, the Executive Director of Alive Community Outreach. Angelo takes us on a journey from his days as a United Methodist pastor, all the way to his stirring decision to lead a mission of nonviolence in Fort Wayne, driven by a family tragedy. His candid storytelling echoes the transformative inception of the Alive program, a beacon we can all learn from about the power of relationships and education in establishing a peaceful coexistence.This episode is not just a testament to Angelo’s remarkable journey, but a tribute to Fort Wayne's resilience, a community that's writing a new narrative of peace and harmony, one relationship at a time.

On today's special bonus episode of the Love Fort Wayne Podcast, Host Geoff King interviews four inspiring leaders during the 2023 Global Leadership Podcast. These are local leaders from the Fort Wayne community who are making big and influential leadership impacts in the areas of business, ministry, education, and family services. Join us as Brendon Maxwell, Fernando Zapari, Pastor Steve Terry, Ally Holland, and Bonnie Doolittle share their growing experiences as leaders teaching them to not only lead with purpose but to lead with love.

On the Love Fort Wayne Podcast, hosts Geoff King and Mitch Kruse join forces with anti-trafficking experts Sandra Keller and Janice Maurizi to uncover the hidden links between human trafficking and trauma. From discussions about informed leadership and mental health to exploring how bullying, anxiety in young girls, and the need for a continuum of care all play a role, this episode will take you on an enlightening journey. Hear heartwarming stories of transformation and get inspired by the Train the Trainer program, as the guests share valuable insights into trauma, leadership, mindfulness, and much more! With fascinating facts about how trauma impacts our brains to connecting with people in need of support during hardship, this episode is an absolute must-listen for anyone interested in understanding more about the issue of human trafficking. Tune in now and join the conversation!

In this exciting episode of the Love Fort Wayne podcast, hosts Geoff King and Mitch Kruse chat with amazing guests Katie Kaiser, Dartanya Williamson, Jeremy McClain, and Rosalina Perez! Tune in to hear their inspiring stories about why they joined Ignite - plus explore the power of God's love. The conversation covers a range of topics, including the highs and lows of leadership, how to ask disruptive questions, finding a balance between work and life, and understanding the value of relationships and mentorship. Join us as we get an inside glimpse into their journey - you won't want to miss it!

Tune in to this month's podcast for an inspiring conversation with Tom Shepherd of  Shepard Family Auto.  Join Geoff King and Kelly Byrd as they chat about how we can best help each other thrive - plus, hear all about the incredible journey that has lead Tom to where he is today! You won't want to miss it!

Join Love Fort Wayne CEO, Geoff King, as he interviews Franklin Kline, Carrie Kennedy, and Kelli Packnett, three amazing individuals who are dedicated to making our schools better. Franklin Kline is the Principal at Abbett Elementary, Carrie Kennedy is the Principal at Levan Scott Elementary, and Kelli Packnett is the Early Childhood Development Director at Bridge of Grace Compassionate Ministries Center. Together, they will share their experiences and ideas on how we can love our schools and create a better learning environment for our children. We all have a role to play in supporting our schools, and this conversation will provide valuable insights on how we can make a difference in our communities. So don't miss this opportunity to learn from these passionate educators and be part of the conversation on building better schools for our future generations.

Join us and listen in to our conversation with Clinton Faupel, Co-founder and Executive Director of RemedyLIVE, as he shares his journey and how RemedyLIVE is delivering hope to students and adults not only in Indiana but across our nation. "At RemedyLIVE we believe that a meaningful conversation allows a person to unpack the secrets of their inner struggle and find hope through knowing someone cares."  To learn more about RemedyLIVE visit their website at: https://www.remedylive.com/

The month of LOVE has never been sweeter on the Love Fort Wayne Podcast. Audree Beere shares how DeBrand Fine Chocolates has been built on a generational love for art, chocolate and an exceptional customer experience.  To learn more or purchase Fort Wayne’s best chocolate visit debrand.com.

It’s a new year, but the same focus of loving our city.  Brenda Gerber Vincent, Chief Impact Officer of Greater Fort Wayne, and newly appointed Love Fort Wayne Board Chair, shares the vision for Love Fort Wayne in 2023.  Listen in on how you can be engaged in loving your city in 2023.

2022 is wrapping up and it’s been an incredible year at Love Fort Wayne.  Listen in as we recap the stories and growth over this past year.

Corey and Cameron Smith are local leaders and brothers that are not just loving our schools but paving a new path in Southeast Fort Wayne.  Listen in as we hear their story and how they are loving families through education in Fort Wayne.Plus listen in for an exciting announcement from LoveFortWayne!

October is an exciting month for Love Fort Wayne. Join us as we hear from Chris Norman and Gina Jehl as they share the exciting story of PrayerWorks opening this month. Check out prayFortWayne.com to learn more about our 24/7 prayer room. 

This is a jam packed episode!Hear an update from Executive Director Jeri Purdy, welcome our newest co-host Mitch Kruse and hear from FWCS Superintendent Dr. Mark Daniel about loving our school. You don’t want to miss this episode as we learn how to partner with our schools to make a difference.