Heart Of The Matter Radio

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podast. Join me and Author Pam Farrel as we dive into the life of Mercy Otis Warren, the woman who used her pen to spark the American Revolution. My dear friend, Pam, is also a best-selling author. We discussed how both women had the moral courage to speak truth to power, then and now. Don't miss this 'bridge' conversation as we head into a powerful season of Revolutionary history this April.

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. This week we remember a Lioness, Paula Bonhoeffer. She loved her children well and educated them at home rather than entrust them to the Prussian government schools. She gave Dietrich the grit to stand up to a dictator. This week, I sat down with a modern-day Paula, Mavian Arocha-Rowe, who also homeschools. We are bridging the gap between Paula's 1917 kitchen and our living rooms today. How do we raise kids who aren't afraid to stand alone? Listen in for a conversation on faith, homeshool, and grit.

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. Sometimes our New Year's resolutions don't last because we try to live in isolation. Author Peggy Sue Wells suggested real growth happens through connection. Explore the gaps in your perspective through listening to someone else's story. When you do that, you don't just set goals, you change the way you see the world. Join us as we trade stories and fill in the blanks and find that 'aha' moment that happens when we listen.

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. Today we're looking at a sensational story. It's Michelle Rickett's story. She's the woman behind She is Safe. Before she fought  modern day slavery, she survived abuse and had every right to let bitterness consume her. However, she chose a different path. She didn't just survive, she forgave and that action set her free That led her and her husband to build an organization that battles trafficking across the globe. Her mercy became a weapon for justice.. As we move into 2026, a milestone year of American libery, we have to ask a question. Is it possible that our greatest impact on the world is hidden behind the person we are most afraid to forgive? I'm Cynthia L Simmons, and I write about the intersection of history and faith, and the moral courage that changes our world. Today, we are going behind the scenes of a true story that proves mercy isn't weakness. Let's dive in.

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. As we move into the Christmas season, we remember the hope we obtain because of the baby born in Bethlehem. That hope extends to the whole world, including women around the world who are in bondage. This week we chatted with Michelle Ricketts who is the founder of Sheissafe.org. She highlighted the plight of women around the world who are sold into slavery as mere children. Her organization enters parts of the world where girls are sold to offer freedom. Listen to her fascinating story and be encouraged!

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio Podcast. This week we are taking a historical view of being thankful by sharing a story from the past. In addition, we interviewed Donna Wyland. She has written a new book, Guided Gratitude Journal, and she testifies to the benefits of praising God. Join us for this interesting discussion. 

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. This month we focused on grief, so this week my guest was author Debbie W. Wilson, a former counselor. We asked the question: how can we grieve well. The discussion was fascinating and informative. We hope to help you and those you love.

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. Now that we returned to fall routines, we feel presssure building. This week Cynthia told the story of Abigail Rice and her huge family. Then she interviewed Debbie W. Wilson who is an author and counselor. She presented solutions for de-stressing your life. You will find her advice useful.. 

Welcome to the latest episode of Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. Cynthia opened this week with a story about a lady who hid her identity. Afterward, she interviewed author Donna Wyland, who works as a life coach and writing coach. Donna explained how she struggled with jealousy and a need to compete. When she finally discovered her niche, her life changed. Now she assists others to find that special place God planned for them. Join us for this fascinatining discussion.

Welcome to another episode of Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. This week author and speaker Laine Lawson Craft was our guest. Her new book is called Warfare Parenting. She shared the heartache she experienced when each of her three children turned away from truth. Her insights and wisdom comfort and inspire the weary mother who can't decide where to turn. You'll find the discussion uplifting and encouraging.

Welcome to the latest episode of Heart of the Matter Radio. We are returning after a short break for travel. This week we discussed the stress, past and present. Abigail Adam experienced anxiety as the chaos of the French Revolution leaked into America. Our guest was author and pastor Charles Stone. He offered numerous tips based on neuroscience and Scripture to help us bounce back when stressful situations come along. Join us for this interesting discussion.

Welcome to the lastest episode of Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. In light of our nation's 249th anniversary, Cynthia is focusing on patriotic themes this month. This week, we get a look at military wives past and present. Lucy Hayes, who later became first lady, watched her husband leave with the Ohio 23rd regiment. Author Kristi Woods related her experiences as the wife of a man serving in the Navy. These ladies face unique problems they learned from and overcame. You will enjoy this discussion.

Welcome to the latest Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. This week we had a lively discussion with Barb Fox. Her marriage went along fine until one day her husband lost his job. She assumed he would soon find another. However, after several years, tensions rose, and she needed help. Listen as we talk over her journey through rough waters. 

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. Too often we hear about the difficulties you experience in marriage. Cynthia's guest this week was Arlene Pellicane, and she longed to offer useful tips to make marriage more enjoyable. She wrote a book called, Making Marriage Easier and included ideas like choosing to have fund together and trying new things. Join us for this lively discussion. 

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. This week Cynthia interviewed Author Kate Batestelli. The empty nest syndrome caught her by surprise, so she offered ideas to other moms. Kate suggested moms Prepare beforehand and keep the marriage strong. You will enjoy this seasoned mother.

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast for Mother's Day week. This month we are focusing on the extraordinary mothers who can inspire us. Cynthia related a story about a lady who lived during the Revolutionary War. Plus, she interviewed author Jess Ronne about her life. Both ladies lost their husband, yet they grew stronger and wiser. Listen and be encouraged.

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. Since we celebrate Mothers' Day in May, we will cover the stories of Extraordinary Mothers this month.  This week, we relate the story of Ann Wager. She had two children when she lost her husband in 1748. Williamsburg Bray School hired her in 1760. Her job was to teach black children the basics of Christianity as well as reading, math, and spelling. Listen as we cover her amazing story.

Welcome to the latest Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. This week, Cynthia delved into Mary Magdalene's story.  What did she see and how did she feel during the crucifixion? Join us for this peek into the mind of an eye witness. 

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. This week we featured a conversation between Cynthia and author Rachel Faulkner Brown, who suffered widowhood twice. She shared how she managed to cope while raising her two young children.  Her ministry, Never Alone Widows, comes along side other widows, offering transformation, joy and purpose. Join us for this fascinating conversation.

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. This is Women's History Month, and this week we are celebrating the nurses who worked in the Mash units during the Korean War. My guest was Author Rebecca Price Janney who just completed the novel East of the Sun. Join us as we discuss these fascinating women who sacrificed so much for our country.