God Closed One Door And Opened a Movement: Michael Loney | The Austin Moss Show Ep. 10

Send us Fan MailIn 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 gymThis conversation covers faith, leadership, calling, nonprofit growth, overcoming setbacks, and the power of being obedient to God’s direction — even when it hurts.Topics Covered00:00 – Processing fees, humble beginnings00:10 – How being fired became a turning point00:55 – Austin opens the show01:20 – Who is Michael Loney?02:00 – Growing up in rural Iowa03:00 – Calling, family, and a heart for ministry04:40 – What is Freedom Hoops?05:30 – Basketball + mentoring + discipleship model07:00 – Tracking hours, impact, and goals09:00 – Launching a second site & rapid growth12:00 – Building a strong, diverse team15:00 – Behind the scenes: nonprofit operations20:00 – Funding stories & how God provided28:00 – Losing his coaching job & the emotional battle33:00 – Recognizing God’s signals37:00 – How to take the first step when you feel stuck42:00 – Freedom Hoops vision for 2024–202645:00 – The March Madness 3v3 Tournament48:00 – The impact of family + faith in leadership50:00 – How to get involved or volunteer51:00 – Michael’s mission & how he wants to be rememberedABOUT FREEDOM HOOPSFreedom 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.orgInstagram: @freedomhoopsLinkedIn: MichaelloneyWAYS TO SUPPORTDonate to help Freedom Hoops reach its $300k year-end goalSponsor the 3v3 TournamentVolunteer as a mentor, coach, or helperFollow + Share their mission with your community🔗 Connect with Austin Moss:Instagram: @austinmossofficialFacebook: Austin Moss OfficialLinkedIn: Austin Earl MossTikTok: @austinmossofficialYouTube: Austin Moss OfficialTwitter (X): @austinmossoffcl🌐 Websites:austinmoss.comcapitalcollab.comblackbayfund.com