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A Breakthrough Hack: Manage Your Thoughts to Decrease Stress

Heart of the Matter Radio Podcast

Release Date: 08/21/2025

The Incredible Woman Who Stained Her Skin with Coffee show art The Incredible Woman Who Stained Her Skin with Coffee

Heart of the Matter Radio Podcast

What does it mean to be truly free? As we mark out 250th anniversary as a nation, writer and historian, Cynthia L Simmons dives into the "sensational" true stories of men and women who redefined libery through moral courage.  From the secrets of Amy Carmichael in the temples of India to the defiant love of the Bonhoeffer women in Nazi Germany, we will explore the pivotal moments when faith met fire. We don't just look at history, we use it as a compass for the challenges of 2026. If you'd like a free guide to radical forgiveness, contact Cynthia@clsimmons.com For instance, we covered...

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Resolved to Listen: New Leaf, New Lens show art Resolved to Listen: New Leaf, New Lens

Heart of the Matter Radio Podcast

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. Sometimes our New Year's resolutions don't last because we try to live in isolation. 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.

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Sensational Forgiveness that Freed the World show art Sensational Forgiveness that Freed the World

Heart of the Matter Radio Podcast

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 . 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...

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Stunning Challenge to Reset Your Compassion in 2026 show art Stunning Challenge to Reset Your Compassion in 2026

Heart of the Matter Radio Podcast

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. Many people assume compassion is a soft virture. What a mistake! In a cynical world, compassion isn't just a feeling, it battles despair. Today we give a stunning challenge to reset your heart for 2026, inspired by one of the most fearless women in American history, Clara Barton.  As you listen, challenge yourself to find ways to show compassion this year. 

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Why a Quiet Mother Kept a Colossal Secret for 70 years show art Why a Quiet Mother Kept a Colossal Secret for 70 years

Heart of the Matter Radio Podcast

What happens to a secret when you keep it for seven decades? In our first episodes of 2026, we're stepping back into the shadows of occupied France to meet one of the most unassuming, and dangerous heroes: Pippa Latour. While the world saw a quiet mother and neighbor, Pippa was an elite WWII spy who parachuted into enemy territory with nothing but a bicycle and a set of secret codes hidden in her hair.  We're closing with a reflection and challenge to move past temporary resolutions. What is one thing you are willing to commit to this year, even when no one is watching? If this story...

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Exploding the Myth: Simplified Story of Silent Night show art Exploding the Myth: Simplified Story of Silent Night

Heart of the Matter Radio Podcast

Welcome to the Christmas episode of Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. Do you think you know the story behind "Silent Night"? You may not. Forget the hungry mice and the broken organ bellows. Those are myths.  The true origin of this beloved carol is more moving. Today on this podcast, we are setting the historical record straight and exploring why this simple melody became the most beloved Christmas carol around the world. Let's dive in.

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The Tremendous Hidden Meaning in a Famous Christmas Carol show art The Tremendous Hidden Meaning in a Famous Christmas Carol

Heart of the Matter Radio Podcast

Welcome! You hear the song every year from November through December in malls, radio stations, and candletlit services. However, when Issac Watts wrote this song, he wasn't thinking about Christmas. Let's dive into the fascinating facts surrounding the history of this song.

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The Truth About the Peace You  Want at Christmas show art The Truth About the Peace You Want at Christmas

Heart of the Matter Radio Podcast

This week we share the untold story behing the writing of "Christmas Bells" written by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. We now call the song "I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day." In contrast to many happy-go-lucky songs, this carol deals with the profound grief surrounding the Civil War. However, Longfellow shared his hope in the last verse. Enjoy!

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Mended Souls: Announcing Hope for Trafficked Women show art Mended Souls: Announcing Hope for Trafficked Women

Heart of the Matter Radio Podcast

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 who is the founder of 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!

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Announcing Sarah Hale's Hidden Battle to Create Thanksgiving show art Announcing Sarah Hale's Hidden Battle to Create Thanksgiving

Heart of the Matter Radio Podcast

You think you know Thanksgiving: turkey, pie, and family. But the truth is, this holiday almost didn't happen.  In the mid 1800s America was deeply divided. The holiday we know and love was just a scattering of local feasts, until one determined woman decided the whole country needed to stop and give thanks. She wasn't a politician or a general. She was an author: Sarah Josepha Hale. For 36 years she fought a relentless battle to draw the nation together over thanksgiving. This is the incredible story of a woman who succeeded. Enjoy!

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More Episodes

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.