Eye of the Needle Podcast

Jonathan Kroll
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What does it really take to build a business that honors God and thrives in the real world? The Eye of the Needle Podcast dives deep into the lives of Christian business owners who walk the narrow road—balancing profit, purpose, and pain with their faith front and center. Hosted by longtime business owner and executive pastor Jonathan Kroll, each episode features real stories of redemption, grit, and God's grace in the workplace. From plumbing to finance, counseling to construction, this podcast is part of the Eye of the Needle Network—a community of vetted Christian business leaders living out the Gospel through how they lead, serve, and run their companies. Real businesses. Real success. Real faith.

Episodes

  1. Jul 3 ·  Video

    Understanding, Empathy & the Lie Behind Your Wound — Christian Counseling AZ (Part 2)

    Is empathy a sin? Jesse Bollinger doesn't think so — and he explains exactly where that idea goes wrong. Jesse, counseling and teaching pastor at Christian Counseling AZ in Phoenix, returns for round two. Last time we covered why understanding is foundational to healing — this time we go deeper: how a single unexamined lie can quietly sit at the center of someone's belief system, why empathy gets confused with blurred boundaries and enabling, and how a "value wound" from childhood can wreck a marriage decades later without either spouse knowing why. We also get into two of the harder conversations in the church right now — where pornography addiction and same-sex attraction actually come from, and why the clinical research points to wounds, not choice or genetics — plus a practical breakdown of anxiety, attachment styles, and why some of the most anxious people you know aren't controlling, they're just afraid. Key Points The "individual belief system" model: truth, interpretations, deductions, and how a lie gets planted at the center Why empathy isn't a sin — and what actually gets mistaken for it (blurred boundaries, enabling, emotional extortion) Acceptance vs. value: the two core needs behind most relational pain How a childhood "value wound" quietly sabotages adult marriages The real root behind pornography addiction and homosexual attraction, according to clinical trauma research Understanding "where they're at right now" — engaging people who don't share your convictions without compromising or condemning Anxiety, the four attachment styles, and the connection between value and fear (Matthew 6) Self-harm, overwhelming thoughts, and why it can signal a mind that's never been taught to manage itself One question Christian Counseling uses to unlock the root behind pornography struggles "We specialize in understanding the things that others don't — and we do so with compassion and help." Contact Jesse Bollinger / Christian Counseling AZ Website: https://christiancounselingaz.org Email: info@christiancounselingaz.org YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CCIPhoenix Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christiancounselingaz Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CCIPhoenix Watch the highlights on YouTube  Listen to the full episode on Spotify & Apple Podcasts Don't forget to subscribe and share!

    Understanding, Empathy & the Lie Behind Your Wound — Christian Counseling AZ (Part 2)

  2. 10/14/2025

    Real Grass, Real Shade, Real Integrity: Magowan Landscaping

    Arizona heat is no joke — and neither is your backyard. In this episode, we sit down with Gabe Magowan, the owner of Magowan Landscaping, who's been faithfully serving the Phoenix area for over 30 years with landscaping built on integrity, experience, and honest work.   From the hidden cost of artificial turf to the blessing of doing business righteously, Gabe lays out the truth about what your yard actually needs — and how cutting corners (or grass) the wrong way will cost you in the long run.   Whether you're trying to beat the heat, save water, or finally enjoy your lawn again — this one's worth a listen.   📞 Contact Gabe Magowan: Website: https://www.magowanlandscaping.com Phone: 602-799-9354   📺 Watch the highlights on YouTube  🎧 Listen to the full episode on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 🔔 Don't forget to subscribe and share!

    Real Grass, Real Shade, Real Integrity: Magowan Landscaping

  3. 09/19/2025

    Retiring with Grace: Passing the Mic to the Next Generation

    Ray the DJ started spinning records in the late '70s and turned a hobby into a legacy. He shares how technology changed the business, but people skills, integrity, and service kept it thriving. We talk about the power of music to create memories, the importance of planning, and how his daughter Mary is stepping in to carry the torch. Ray also opens up about his health battles, faith journey, and what it means to truly serve others—both behind a mic and in the kingdom of God. Key Points  Ray's start at ASU and early DJing gigs  Hauling records vs. digital music today Why you don't just plug in a phone The DJ's role in coordinating the wedding Vetting and hiring DJs with character What brides don't know Ray's faith story Transitioning to his daughter  Legacy & retirement lessons   Links Website: https://www.raythedj.com Email: info@raythedj.com Phone: 480-921-9665

    Retiring with Grace: Passing the Mic to the Next Generation

  4. 07/22/2025

    Kingdom Work, Kitchen Style - Common Hospitality

    Is hospitality just a service — or can it be sacred? Jonathan Kroll sits down with longtime friend and chef, Justin Hege, founder of Common Hospitality. Once a pastor, now a private chef, Justin shares how he brings excellence, compassion, and even prayer into every home he serves. From bachelor parties to 50th birthdays, Common Hospitality curates unforgettable, spirit-led dining experiences. They booked a private chef for the vibe… but walked away with a deeper kind of fullness. Justin Hege isn't just serving meals — he's serving moments. As the founder of Common Hospitality and a former pastor, he believes dinner can be sacred. Every dish tells a story. Every night has a purpose. Imagine a dinner so perfectly tailored to your gathering that it feels more like ministry than meal. Whether it's a wild bachelor party or a quiet retirement, Justin and his team match the energy — and they pray before they knock. "Hospitality is a godly characteristic — it's who I am."   Learn more: https://www.common-hospitality.com Instagram: @commonhospitality

    Kingdom Work, Kitchen Style - Common Hospitality

  5. 07/11/2025

    Holistic Counseling That Actually Works - Christian Counseling

    What's the difference between biblical and clinical counseling? Jesse Bollinger, founder of Christian Counseling AZ, shares his powerful story—from burnout and health scares to launching a ministry that heals spiritual wounds. If you've ever felt stuck, judged, or unseen—this episode is for you. Visit https://www.christiancounselingaz.com Key Ideas • Clinical vs. Biblical vs. Holistic Counseling: What's missing in each. • Understanding and compassion as healing forces. • The spiritual roots behind many mental health struggles. • The dangers of shallow or overly clinical Christian counseling.   What if your counselor understood your spirit as well as your story?   In this episode, Jonathan sits down with Jesse Bollinger—founder of Christian Counseling AZ—to unpack how healing happens when Jesus leads. Jesse shares his powerful testimony and the heartbreak that launched his ministry. He explains the difference between clinical and biblical counseling, and why compassion is the most powerful tool a counselor has. Jesse's story isn't just about surviving—it's about surrendering to God's plan, even when doors close and health fails. They also dive into spiritual wounds, church hurt, and the heavy weight leaders carry. This is a must-listen for anyone burned out, stuck, or needing clarity in their calling.

    Holistic Counseling That Actually Works - Christian Counseling

  6. 06/24/2025

    JP Plumbing - Two Men, One Mission: Serve Through Plumbing

    What does it mean to run a plumbing business for the Kingdom of God? For Josh and Brendan, it's not just about fixing pipes—it's about walking into homes as men of peace. In this episode, they share their powerful testimonies of transformation through Christ, how addiction and artistic detours led to their business partnership, and why their company culture is shaped by servant leadership. As co-owners, they don't just fix leaks—they disciple through example. They also talk openly about finding the line between turning the other cheek and standing firm as business owners. Whether it's with customers, employees, or each other, their guiding principle is clear: honor God, love people, and do excellent work. If you're struggling in business or life, this episode is a practical blueprint for keeping your hands busy and your heart anchored in truth.   Links:  jpplumbingaz.com 602-299-8622 josh@jpplumbingaz.com

    JP Plumbing - Two Men, One Mission: Serve Through Plumbing

  7. 06/23/2025

    Jesus Fish and Business Ethics

    This launch episode of The Eye of the Needle Podcast introduces host Jonathan Kroll and the heart behind the show. He shares his journey—from ministry to entrepreneurship to media—and explains why the podcast and business network exist. It's not about branding yourself as a Christian. It's about being one, especially behind closed doors. Jonathan lays out what listeners can expect, who the show is for, and how each guest is vetted through their faith and integrity. He also shares his personal struggle in business and how faith helped him walk the hard road. This episode sets the tone for a raw, honest, and faith-centered conversation about business and leadership.

  • 7 Episodes

About

What does it really take to build a business that honors God and thrives in the real world? The Eye of the Needle Podcast dives deep into the lives of Christian business owners who walk the narrow road—balancing profit, purpose, and pain with their faith front and center. Hosted by longtime business owner and executive pastor Jonathan Kroll, each episode features real stories of redemption, grit, and God's grace in the workplace. From plumbing to finance, counseling to construction, this podcast is part of the Eye of the Needle Network—a community of vetted Christian business leaders living out the Gospel through how they lead, serve, and run their companies. Real businesses. Real success. Real faith.

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