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In this episode, Austin sits down with Michael Loney, founder of Freedom Hoops — a powerful Kansas City basketball discipleship ministry transforming the lives of young men who need mentorship, structure, and hope.

Michael shares the raw and honest story of being let go mid-season, believing his dream career was collapsing… only to discover that God was redirecting him toward a purpose far bigger than he imagined.

Today, Freedom Hoops serves hundreds of young men through:
🏀 Basketball
🍽️ Weekly meals
🤝 Life-on-life mentoring
📖 Gospel-centered discipleship
💛 Real relationships that extend far beyond the gym

This conversation covers faith, leadership, calling, nonprofit growth, overcoming setbacks, and the power of being obedient to God’s direction — even when it hurts.

Topics Covered

00:00 – Processing fees, humble beginnings
00:10 – How being fired became a turning point
00:55 – Austin opens the show
01:20 – Who is Michael Loney?
02:00 – Growing up in rural Iowa
03:00 – Calling, family, and a heart for ministry
04:40 – What is Freedom Hoops?
05:30 – Basketball + mentoring + discipleship model
07:00 – Tracking hours, impact, and goals
09:00 – Launching a second site & rapid growth
12:00 – Building a strong, diverse team
15:00 – Behind the scenes: nonprofit operations
20:00 – Funding stories & how God provided
28:00 – Losing his coaching job & the emotional battle
33:00 – Recognizing God’s signals
37:00 – How to take the first step when you feel stuck
42:00 – Freedom Hoops vision for 2024–2026
45:00 – The March Madness 3v3 Tournament
48:00 – The impact of family + faith in leadership
50:00 – How to get involved or volunteer
51:00 – Michael’s mission & how he wants to be remembered

ABOUT FREEDOM HOOPS

Freedom Hoops is a basketball-driven discipleship ministry serving young men across Kansas City by creating safe spaces, long-term mentorship, and Christ-centered community.

Website: https://freedomhoops.org
Instagram: @freedomhoops
LinkedIn: Michaelloney

WAYS TO SUPPORT
Donate to help Freedom Hoops reach its $300k year-end goal
Sponsor the 3v3 Tournament
Volunteer as a mentor, coach, or helper
Follow + Share their mission with your community

🔗 Connect with Austin Moss:
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Facebook: Austin Moss Official
LinkedIn: Austin Earl Moss
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Twitter (X): @austinmossoffcl

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austinmoss.com
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