Join us for a special episode with Josh Turley, Director of Strategic Development, and Mike Schoettle, Director of Spiritual Wellness & Discipleship, as they share their excitement for the upcoming Night of Praise! We'll reflect on last year's event and look ahead to what the Lord has in store this year. Mike also highlights the importance of unity…

In this episode, Miriam Krehbiel, Deputy Director of Supportive Services, and John Roberts, Deputy Director of Community Needs & Services, share insights from the recent Kansas Housing Conference they attended. They explore the meaning of attainable housing, the importance of moving beyond emergency shelters, and the critical role case managers pla…

In this episode, we sit down with Pedro Concepcion, CEO of NOTO Arts & Entertainment District, who shares his journey from Chicago to Topeka and his role in transforming the city's cultural landscape through The Burger Stand and beyond. Pedro discusses the importance of collective growth, emphasizing that a thriving city requires a foundation of mo…

In this episode, Barry Feaker, CEO of Compassion Strategies, and Brett Martin, VP of Community Impact for United Way of Kaw Valley, dive into the "All Hands on Deck" initiative, a bold response to Topeka's homelessness crisis. They discuss the origins, challenges, and community's role in this united effort to find real solutions, emphasizing collab…

Have you ever wondered how trauma affects those experiencing homelessness and what steps can lead to true transformation? In this eye-opening episode, we speak with Kourtney Barr, Deputy Director of Transformational Services, and Kodee Bloom, Director of Trauma Education and Development. They share their deep knowledge on trauma education and their…

In this episode, we offer an inside look at the daily challenges and triumphs at the Topeka Rescue Mission. We sit down with Mick Ballinger, Assistant Director of Men’s Services, as he shares his inspiring journey from the construction industry to becoming a Housing Navigator at TRM, and ultimately, the Assistant Director of the Men’s Shelter. His …

You've heard his voice, now hear his story! Join us for an inspiring episode where we delve into the life and journey of Issiah Thurman, TRM's Creative Communications Coordinator. Issiah opens up about his experiences growing up and staying at the Mission, revealing how those formative years profoundly influenced his life. He takes us through his p…

Listen in this week as we visit with Janice Watkins, CEO of Topeka Habitat for Humanity, about her transformative initiatives and the organization's extraordinary track record in homeownership preparedness and foreclosure prevention. We delve into an innovative aging-in-place program that goes beyond home repairs to offer comprehensive support, fro…

Join us for an insightful episode as we talk with Andrew Lucas (Director of Distribution Services) and Scott Bryant (Assistant Director of Distribution Services) about our upcoming Back to School event, a crucial initiative supporting students and families in our community. We'll take a deep dive into the essential operations of our distribution ce…

Join us as we visit with Bill Persinger, the outgoing CEO of Valeo Behavioral Health Care. We begin by expressing our gratitude for Bill’s work as CEO as he prepares for retirement, and then delve into his extensive career in mental health. Bill shares insights into the evolution of behavioral health care and the history of community mental health …

Join us for a special episode as we unravel the intricate layers of a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision that could impact our unsheltered neighbors. Our guest host, Brett Martin, Vice President of Community Impact at United Way of Kaw Valley, guides the conversation as La Manda, Barry, and Miriam discuss compassion and practicality in homelessness…

Join us for an inspiring episode featuring La Manda Broyles, Miriam Krehbiel, John Roberts, and Josh Turley as they share the transformative impact of the recent Citygate Network Conference. We'll dive into how Citygate Network connects and empowers rescue ministries nationwide, with insights from the annual conference in Kentucky where over 1,200 …

Can understanding trauma transform the way we address homelessness? Join us in this deeply impactful episode as we visit with Kourtney Barr, Deputy Director of Transformational Services, and Kodee Bloom, Director of Trauma Education & Development. We dive into trauma-informed care, how we implement Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) techniq…

Meet Kenny, our extraordinary guest who takes us through his incredible journey from the depths of a 43-year-long addiction to heroin and meth to his pivotal role at the Topeka Rescue Mission. Kenny's story is one of unimaginable struggles, from homelessness to a transformative plea for help in October 2014. Kenny's narrative underscores the euphor…

In this special episode, Mike Schoettle, Director of Spiritual Wellness & Discipleship, shares a childhood memory of a night filled with both fear and deep reassurance from his father. Reflecting on that experience, Mike draws a parallel to the profound love of our Heavenly Father. This episode serves as a powerful reminder of how a parent's unwave…

Join us for a special conversation with Connor Kraus, the lead pastor of Topeka Bible Church. In this episode, we delve into the strategic transition of pastoral leadership, TBC's dedication to its missions and the gospel, and Connor's vision for the church's future. Discover how he is guiding the church towards enhanced discipleship, increased loc…

Meet Kim and Miranda, two dedicated staff members from TRM, who share their journeys to where they are today! Kim takes us through her transition from working with volunteers, to serving as La Manda's Executive Assistant, and finally to her current role in HR. Meanwhile, Miranda offers a heartfelt look at her path from being a guest at TRM, to trai…

Tackling homelessness can't be done in isolation. This episode is a testament to that, as we delve into the grassroots efforts of Topeka JUMP (Justice Unity & Ministry Project), supported by 29 faith communities, and their bottom-up approach to societal concerns. We visit with JUMP organizers Sarah Balzer, Jason Maymon, and JUMP Executive Committee…

Step into an engaging discussion with John Schardine, the Property Maintenance Director for the City of Topeka. Discover his heartfelt approach to property management, prioritizing education over penalties and striving to understand the root causes behind property complaints. John shares with us how he navigates the wide ranging complexities of pro…

Have you ever pondered the profound influence of a helping hand? Join us as we delve into the remarkable contributions of the volunteers who selflessly dedicate their time at TRM! Accompanied by Suzie Paslay, our Volunteer & Staff Engagement Coordinator, we delve into the pivotal role that volunteers play across all facets of our ministry, enrichin…

There's something special about the TRM kitchen—it's where hearts connect, and change is embraced with open arms. In this episode, hear how Chef Sean Hall is passing the baton of Director Food Services to Chef Sally Herrera. Through the bittersweet news of Chef Sean's departure, we revisit some of his time here, as well as look to the future with a…

Join us for a beautiful episode as we sit down with Holton Witman, the outgoing Director of Distribution Services at TRM. Delve into his journey within the organization, from his beginnings in the street outreach team to his conscious choice to prioritize his role as a father and family man. Experience the thrilling narrative of following one's fai…

Join us for a critical conversation with Topeka Police Department's Major Mike Cross, a 23-year veteran with profound insights into community and law enforcement collaboration. Our discussion paints a vivid picture of the interplay between local ordinances, unsheltered populations, and the role of the police in addressing these societal challenges.…

This episode is a journey of reflection and inspiration, tracking the footprints of a man whose childhood curiosity in a seventh-grade science class blossomed into a career in engineering which shaped a path to full time ministry in Topeka. Johnathan Sublet, Interim Executive Director and Board Chairman for SENT and Servant Pastor at Fellowship Hi-…

Sunday wouldn't have mattered if Friday didn't happen. In this episode we reflect on the incredible sacrifice that Jesus paid for all of us. We are joined by Mike Schoettle who shares from his "Sacred Steps" devotional series written for TRM staff in the weeks leading up to Easter. Mike's devotionals, steeped in authenticity and reverence, help gui…

Navigating mental health and community outreach, we're honored to welcome Matt Baldwin from Breakthrough House to our dialogue. We explore partnerships and the balance of support and independence in mental wellness. Matt shares Breakthrough House's core belief: community guidance for reintegrating individuals. Hear stories of resilience, highlighti…

Cherished connections and understanding people's motivations are the bedrock of any thriving non-profit, and we uncover just how these elements fuel our Mission. We take you behind the scenes to visit with TRM Donor Relations Specialist, Jamie Wiegert. Hear about his background in growing relationships in sales, leading into nurturing a family of s…

In this episode, La Manda Broyles, TRM Executive Director, visits with her Deputy Directors, Kourtney Barr, Miriam Krehbiel, and Christian Stringfellow about unity and vision for those we serve! This impactful conversation hits on a recent retreat the leadership team were able to go on and the insights and renewal they were able to glean from it. L…

Listen in to this wonderful interview, as we talk with Brian Cole, Director of the Shawnee County Department of Corrections. Brian shares about his personal path into the world of corrections, and it's clear that his heart beats for change and dignity within the system. We discuss the innovative steps to prioritize rehabilitation and the essential …

(DISCLAIMER: This episode is a very raw and unfiltered interview and as such contains some explicit language. Listener discretion is advised.) Have you ever grasped the weight of a second chance, the kind that reshapes the very core of a human soul? Listen in as we visit with our special guest, George Cunningham, to hear his journey from the chilli…

When the icy grip of a winter threatened the vulnerable in Topeka, a torrent of compassion and collaboration surged through the community. In this episode we celebrate the efforts of community helping community! Joined by Kristin Stock from Valeo, Richard Martinez from Street Team Ministry, and Sergeant Matt Rose from the Topeka Police Department, …

Ash Wednesday, Valentine's Day, and Barry's Birthday! Oh my! In this special episode we discuss the significance of Ash Wednesday, the great distances we go for love, and the impact of the people that God places in our lives. You are loved! To learn more about TRM Ministries: Click Here! To support TRM, Click Here! Send us a Message!…

In this special episode Mike Schoettle, TRM's Director of Spiritual Wellness & Discipleship, has the main mic! Sharing an encouraging message of the Lord's steadfastness. Drawing parallels from his experience working at the Kalamazoo Air Zoo to trusting God to carry you through struggles, we discuss the profound impact of prayer and trusting in the…

Listen in as La Manda Broyles visits with Deputy Directors, Kourtney Barr (Transformational Services), Miriam Krehbiel (Supportive Services), and Christian Stringfellow (Shelter Services) to reflect on 2023. From the moments of pride, to the difficulties of challenge, and the amazing God stories that make it all worth it. We also discuss the import…

We're joined by Ken Peterson, the Regional Coordinator for the Central region of the Citygate Network, North America’s oldest and largest community of independent, faith-based crisis shelters and life-transformation centers. Ken gives his unique insights into transformative growth, stories of connection, and shared wisdom on the importance of gathe…

When the mercury plummets, the winds howl, and the snow falls, we desire to keep our unsheltered neighbors warm and safe. See a need, meet a need. In this episode, you'll hear about the efforts to transform our warehouse into a warming center, our need for community support, and a heartwarming story of transformation through 4 words, "food, safe, t…

As the festive lights twinkle and the spirit of Christmas warms our hearts, we visit with Mike Schoettle in a special episode that's a testament to transformation and enduring hope. Mike opens up about his journey from moments of uncertainty to receiving affirmations of his spiritual path, leading up to his new role as Director of Spiritual Wellnes…

What does it look like to help oversee our Christmas Distribution operation? Get an inside listen as we visit with Cindy Risch, TRM Volunteer and Christmas Coordinator. Hear her heart for serving, how her background in engineering helps her see the big picture for everything to work together, and some of the stories of how God has provided in incre…

In this episode we revisit a very special episode from this time last year, where we sat down and visited with one of the original founders of TRM, Max Manning! Even at the age of 95, Max continues to carry a spirit that embodies an unwavering dedication to service and immeasurable love for humanity. Be inspired by his journey of founding the Topek…

Christmas time is here! Listen in as we visit with Holton Witman, Director of Distribution Services, and Mike Schoettle, Assistant Director of Distribution Services, about all the amazing things going on at the Distribution Center during this special time of year. From preparing and delivering gifts to trusting God to provide in amazing ways. Throu…

This milestone episode, our 200th broadcast, coincides beautifully with the spirit of Giving Tuesday! Listen as explore the multiple ways you, our listeners, can play an instrumental role, and also hear from some of our amazing staff and hear the "Why?" behind their work and impact here at TRM. We are so thankful for them and we are thankful for yo…

The holiday season is not just about celebrating, but it's also about reflection, redemption and finding purpose. In this episode we visit with our very own, Chef Sean Hall. Hear how he found his true calling at TRM, about his difficult journey to get here, and the important reminder that no matter our past, there's always hope for a brighter futur…

Awareness of homelessness may be highlighted this week, but it's happening every day. In this episode, La Manda and Barry unpack some of the tough questions surrounding homelessness, why there is not a one size fits all answer to solve it, and how we all have a part to play. It's a beautiful mess when you seek to truly help those in need, but every…

In this episode, we visit with our good friend, Adrian Revels, Production Associate for Goodyear and 2023 graduate of Leadership Greater Topeka. Hear how he first learned more about TRM through La Manda coming to speak to his LGT class, to how he has now become a strong advocate for our unsheltered neighbors. Also, learn about his story of coming a…

Listen in as we visit with Isabell Chronister, Assistant Director of the Hope Center! Hear about her time as interning at TRM through Washburn University, where she worked with our TED (Trauma Education Department) Team, and her desire to continue working here even after her internship was completed. Also learn about her heart for the people we ser…

Listen in to a special conversation and unique perspective as we sit down with Steve Vogel, a seasoned landlord and President of the Shawnee County Landlord Association. Steve shares his unique insights into the persistent social issue of helping those experiencing homelessness. Our discussion ranges from exploring the intricate workings of the lan…

In our latest conversation, we visit with Mike Lesser. Through his role as vice president of the board for Compassion Strategies, his tenure as a City Council member in Topeka, and his experience on the Seaman School Board, Mike has made a remarkable impact on the community he serves. But as strong as his community spirit is, Mike's personal journe…

In this episode, we visit with Steve Saffa, TRM Director of Human Resources. Hear about his journey from serving in the corporate world, to serving in a role overseeing HR in Africa and how he was led to TRM. Steve sheds light on the importance of having the right person in each role to ensure we remain Christ-centered in our service. Serving is no…

Navigating difficult circumstance in the path we are on. In this episode, we visit with Erik Oldberg, a worship leader who radiates an infectious passion for guiding people into the Kingdom of God through worship. Erik shares about his journey as a missionary kid from Africa to how he landed in Topeka, his dedication to serve churches in need of mu…

In this episode, we sit down with our special guests, Greg Armbruster and SJ Hazim, to reflect on our recent Night of Praise fundraiser! First up, Greg Armbruster, TRM Board Member, shares about how the idea for the event came to be and the passion that fueled our desire to bring Night of Praise to life. Next, Josh Turley, Creative Communications D…