Eye of the Needle is a space for real stories — the kind that reveal character, shape communities, and help people make better decisions about who they trust and who they work with.

We highlight business owners, leaders, and creators who choose purpose over pressure and integrity over convenience. Because behind every strong company is a person whose values shape everything they build.

This network was created to help those stories be seen.

The world is full of shortcuts, noise, and marketing that says everything but means nothing.

Eye of the Needle exists to slow things down.

We believe honest conversation still matters.
We believe character shows up when people speak freely.
We believe transparency builds the kind of trust no advertisement ever could.

Every episode gives the community a clearer look at the people behind local businesses — their standards, their decisions, and the principles they refuse to compromise on.

When you understand someone’s story and their values, you understand the heart of their business.

Each episode is a long-form conversation built around two simple things:

Their story.
Where they came from, what shaped them, and how their experiences formed the leader they are today.

Their standards.
How they operate, how they treat people, and the values that drive every decision behind the scenes.

It’s not scripted.
It’s not polished.
It’s real — and that’s why it matters.

When people slow down and speak honestly, their true character comes through.

Jonathan Kroll is the host of The Eye of the Needle Podcast and the founder of Ascomanni Productions. With more than a decade of business ownership and over fifteen years of leadership experience across industries, he has seen one truth repeat itself:

Skill matters.
Character decides everything.

Jonathan has spent years in boardrooms, job sites, studios, and church halls, and that conviction is what shapes every conversation he leads. His goal is simple:

To help the community find businesses they can trust,
to give honest owners a place to be seen,
and to highlight character — not just credentials.

These ideas guide everything we make:

Character Over Convenience
How you lead matters more than what you say.

Honesty Creates Trust
Transparency is the foundation of meaningful relationships — personally and professionally.

Stories Shape Communities
When people share their journeys, we understand each other better and grow stronger together.

Purpose Leads to Impact
Values aren’t marketing. They’re the bedrock of leadership.

Every business has a deeper story.
Every leader carries lessons someone else needs to hear.

If you’d like to share yours — or if your company reflects the kind of values people should know more about — we’d love to connect.