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While gunfire rips oak trees to shreds and thick smoke clouds the battlefield, several men crawl straight toward the shelling. They have no guns, no ammunition, and no bayonets. Instead they carry copper wire and pliers. Why would anyone charge into gunfire and risk their lives?  In this episode, discover the unsung heros of the Civil War Telegraph Corps and the powerful lesson their courage holds for us today.

In December 1926, famous mystery writer, Agatha Christie disappeared for eleven days. In this episode we explore the truth surrounding her Harrogate disappearance, and discuss the toil of grief and burnout. Thankfully, Psalm 23:3 tells us God restores us before he directs our steps.  If you love mystery, you will enjoy my latest novel, Moment in Time. Click here for information.

The deadlist weapon during the Civil War wasn't always the bullet. Sometimes it was a stolen brass telegraph key.  Join Cynthia as she describes "Lightning" Ellsworth, the Confederate cavalryman who hacked into Union lines and spread confusion in Union lines. Discover a true story of 1860 wiretapping and find ways to discern fearful and distressing messages our enemy will send you. Learn more here

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. In this episode, we unpack a quirky moment in history during World War II. We also ask challenging questions: What are you carrying in your pack? Are you snacking on life's distractions? Or are you stewarding yoour time and gifts for what truly endures?

Do you ever wonder what brings a historical fiction story to life?  In this episode, Cynthia L Simmons reveals the historical inspiration behind her newest historical mystery, Moment in Time. Get a peek into how Helen, Edward, and Helen's sharp-eyed kitten companion came to be. If you are a history buff, a mystery lover, or just curious about the research, you'll love this podcast. Grab a cup of tea and enjoy this look into the backstory.  If you'd enjoy a free companion devotional during our launch, you can get that here after you purchase the book.

When a sudden crisis hits, shock can leave you completely frozen. In this episode, Cynthia shared her deeply personal journey navigating a lymphoma diagnosis and taking action. She draws a parallel to the upheaval Philadelphia citizens felt in 1777 when they realized the British would invade, and they took measures to protect themselves. If you are facing an unexpected life storm, this episode will assist you to reframe your perspective. Discover why a hidden season is never a waste of time but a safe place to heal. Also, stay tuned for an annoucement of Cynthia's upcoming novel, Moment in Time.

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. This week Cynthia speaks from her heart about her cancer journey and links her story with the American Revolution. One very clever man, James Lovell, loved writing and breaking codes. He confused a couple of the greatest minds at that time trying to help the patriots win the war. Cynthia shares how we can overcome the complex and find comfort in our Savior. Listen and enjoy.

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. In this episode, Cynthia shares a personal update on her journey through chemo. In the midst of her weariness, she found comfort and grit from a lady in the American Revolution: Kate Barry. We've all heard of Paul Revere, but not as many know about Kate. But her determination led to a great Victory at Cowpens. Listen and be encouraged. If you enjoy this episode, please share it with others.

In this episode of Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast, we step into the eye of the historical storm. Imagine losing your infant, your husband, and your financial security within a matter of months. People are watching your reaction. Where do you turn?

Legacy. What is it? In this episode, Cynthia L Simmons pours a cup of tea and invites you into Dolley Madison's parlor. History remembers her as the "Queen of Washington," but her greatest work may have been mentoring her great-neice. Adele took those lessons in diplomacy she learned from her aunt and put them to practice in one of the darkest times in history.

Have you ever felt you were in a season of "steeping" while you waited? In this special Mother's Day episode, Cynthia L Simmons invites you to grab a cup of hot tea and step back 1700 years into history to discover the life of one of the most resilient mothers who ever lived: St Monica. The world remembers her son, Augustine of Hippo, yet few people realize the thirty years of tears she shed before she saw the harvest of her prayers. Maybe you are navigating a storm of your own or have a prodigal you long to see return. Just like a good cup of tea, the most profound impact takes time to develop. You'll enjoy the encouragement and comfort as you listen.

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. I'm your hostess, Cynthia L Simmons, and I have been reflecting on navigating the storms of life. Sometimes the best lessons in resilience and trust come from the most unexpected places. Today, that comes from the deck of a World War II battleship. I delight in finding fun stories, and I love this one. Can you imagine a cat caught in a shipwreck? Cats hate water, yet this sturdy cat survived three.  If you love history (like I do) or maybe you need a reminder about holding on during a storm, you will find this story fascinating. Let's look at the story told by sailors and find that anchor we all need.

Imagine living in the Confederacy during the Civil War. Your friends and acquaintances don't share your value for human life. Even worse, these people expect you to accept the social norms and refuse to see the injustice of slavery. What would you do? Listen to a snippet of Elizabeth Van Lew's story. After the war General Grant thanked her personally. A riveting story!

While researching the Revolutionary War era, I came across a theme of grave robbers, called 'resurrectionists.' People accused Dr. Edward Shippen of stealing bodies to dissect for the medical school in PA. However, as I kept reading, I found the problem started in ancient history and continued into the Victorian era. Join me as we draw parallels between that crime and the beauty of the Easter story.