Heart of the Matter Radio Podcast
Celebrating women from the past as we develop powerful new ways to navigate our nutty, upside-down world. Hostess Cynthia L Simmons leads listeners toward God's timeless wisdom. He's always the Heart of the Matter
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Choosing Hope: Rebuilding Life After an Abortion
04/25/2024
Choosing Hope: Rebuilding Life After an Abortion
Welcome to another Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. In this episode, we chatted about the complex emotions surrounding abortion like fear of God's retribution. Camille Cates was my guest. She related the dramatic story of her unplanned preganancies and her choice to abort. Camille opened up about her deep seated pain and guilt. She explained the difference in Biblical grief verses worldly sorrow. Join our conversation and discover peace through God's mercy.
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Bloom in Your Winter Season
04/11/2024
Bloom in Your Winter Season
Heart of the Matter Radio returns after a short vacation. In this episode Cynthia chats with Author . Deborah just completed a book called, Bloom in Your Winter Season which covers women of the Bible who excelled once their kids were grown. Deborah quoted Babbie Mason who said "God doesn't stamp an expiration date on you." Join us as we discuss creative ways to continue serving God.
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Uncovering Women's History: The Story of Katie Luther
03/06/2024
Uncovering Women's History: The Story of Katie Luther
In this special episode for Women's History Month, we offer a snippet on the life of a remarkable woman from the Reformation: Katrina von Bora who married Martin Luther, the Reformer. Cynthia has written more about Katie's life in the , Women Who Overcame.
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When Children Stray: A Mother's Journey Then and Now
02/29/2024
When Children Stray: A Mother's Journey Then and Now
In this riveting podcast, Cynthia explores the problem of the wayward child. As Cynthia opened the interview, she related the story of Susannah Wesley and her prodigal child. Afterward, she asked her to share the struggles she faced when her daughter made poor choices. The ladies discussed the gut-wrenching pain of letting go and trusting God. Join Cynthia and Deborah as they shared how they found hope in the middle of pain.
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President's Day: John Quincy Adams and the Courage of Convictions
02/15/2024
President's Day: John Quincy Adams and the Courage of Convictions
In this President's Day podcast, Cynthia and Rebecca Price Janney, author and historian, discuss intriguing stories. Discover how John Quincy Adams made an impact by refusing to accept a gag order on slavery. From enduring marriages and diplomacy, this episode makes history live and sheds light on our lives today.
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Beyond Romance: Sacrificial Love of Susannah and Charles Haddon Spurgeon
02/08/2024
Beyond Romance: Sacrificial Love of Susannah and Charles Haddon Spurgeon
Welcome to another episode of Heart of the Matter Radio Podcast. We all enjoy a love story, and this week shared a tidbitt from the courtship of Charles Haddon Spurgeon and his wife Susannah. Susie was very shy, but Spurgeon had set London ablaze when he came to New Park Street Chapel. The church had to hire a new auditorium to handle the crowds he attracted. However, he tended to forget everything when he started speaking. Once he even forgot Susie. Listen for a snippet of their story. You can find more on the book by Cynthia called
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Red Lipstick and God's Love
02/01/2024
Red Lipstick and God's Love
In this podcast episode, discussed the connection of red lipstick, World War 2, and patriotism. She explored how American women expressed their femininity and kept their spirits up during a pivotal time in history. Drawing parallels to the idea of love, Cynthia also discussed the idea of agape love as we launch into the month of February. Join us as we dive into history and consider how to improve the present.
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Adventures in Odyssey's Katie Leigh and Peggy Sue Wells
01/25/2024
Adventures in Odyssey's Katie Leigh and Peggy Sue Wells
Welcome to the latest episode of Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast where we celebrate women from the past and learn new and powerful ways to cope with our nutty, upside-down world. This week we had a special guest, . She was joined by a mutual friend, . Katie shared how she got the job at Focus on the Family and her heart for sharing truth with others. Peggy Sue explained how she became friends with Katie. Both ladies expressed their desire to minister and make the world a better place. Join us as we hear their inspiring stories and invaluable lessons.
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Brave Hearted Woman: Empowering Women to Find their Purpose
01/18/2024
Brave Hearted Woman: Empowering Women to Find their Purpose
Welcome to another episode of Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. In this episode Cynthia and her guest discuss what a brave-hearted woman looks like. Dawn shared her insights on discovering your vision and living as God intended you to live. Join Cynthia and Dawn as they discuss practical tips to make 2024 more successful.
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Live Boldly in 2024: Insight on Living Intentionally
01/12/2024
Live Boldly in 2024: Insight on Living Intentionally
Welcome to our second podcast for 2024. Cynthia and her guest, , discuss stories of people who rose above circumstances and lived out what they believed. Nicki also offered encouraging ideas about how we can reach out to needy people this year and make a difference in our world. Join us as we brainstorm tackling 2024.
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Navigating a Nutty World: Hints for 2024
01/04/2024
Navigating a Nutty World: Hints for 2024
Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. 2024 has arrived. Typically, people consider their plans and resolutions for the new year. This week, Cynthia mentioned the craziness around us. She asked author to give thoughts about stewardship in this situation. Peggy Sue pointed out the importance of self-care and of controlling your thoughts rather than leaping into crisis mode. She highlighted the need for prayer and loving people as well as listening to the opinions of others. This month Peggy Sue will be giving away her Mark Wayne Adventure Series ebooks. If you would like to be part of the drawing, email .
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New Year's Thoughts: Leave a Lasting Legacy
12/28/2023
New Year's Thoughts: Leave a Lasting Legacy
Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. In this week's New Year podcast, Cynthia related a story about the man who accidentally ignited Thee Great London Fire, which took place in 1666. Imagine how ashamed he must have felt. Based on that event, she invited listeners to consider their own legacy. What will people remember about your life?
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Create Lasting Christmas Memories
12/22/2023
Create Lasting Christmas Memories
Welcome to the Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. This week Cynthia offered a holiday message about creating lasting memories with those we love. She emphasized the need for transcendency in our lives. and for giving messages that clearly communicate our hope. As a Christmas gift, Cynthia offered listeners her of Christmas as well as a cake recipe her mother used to make for the season.
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Christmas Wedding: Unveiling the Roosevelt Love Story
12/14/2023
Christmas Wedding: Unveiling the Roosevelt Love Story
Welcome to the Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. This week we go back in history to learn about Teddy Roosevelt's parents. His mother, Mittie Bulloch, lived in Roswell, Georgia, just north of Atlanta. Our guest this week, Gwendolyn I. Koehler researched their lives and transcribed their letters. In this episode, she shared their romantic journey and their gorgeous winter wedding at Bulloch Hall. To learn more about Bulloch Hall, you can check visiting hours . Ms. Koehler's book, Mittie and Thee: an 1853 Roosevelt Romance, can be found on and Barnes and Noble. As a Christmas gift, you may click to receive Cynthia's childhood memories and a favorite childhood reicpe.
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Mastering Holiday Stress: Secrets to Finding Peace
12/07/2023
Mastering Holiday Stress: Secrets to Finding Peace
Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. In this episode, author and counselor chatted about ways to whip holiday burn out. Tina offered useful ideas on managing social obligations and genius ways to give meaningful gifts without spending a fortune. She also offers a course you can check out . Use the codes FRIDAY23 or ACT NOW to get a discount. In addition, Cynthia is offering a gift to all her listeners. She complied Christmas memories from her childhood and a favorite cake her mother used to make. You can access that
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Sarah Joseph Hale's Fight for Thanksgiving: The Inspiring Story Behind a National Tradition
11/23/2023
Sarah Joseph Hale's Fight for Thanksgiving: The Inspiring Story Behind a National Tradition
Welcome to the Thanksgiving episode of Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. Cynthia steps back ino history and hightlights Sarah Josepha Hale. Sarah, who lived during the Civil War, believed a national day of thanksgiving would unite and fractured nation. Due to her persistance, President Lincoln finally made the Thanksgiving a national holiday. Grab a cup of hot cocoa and listen to this delightful story while you count your blessings. This year, Cynthia is offering her childhood memories as a gift to her listeners. Click
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Prepare for the Holidays and Nurture Your Relationships
11/16/2023
Prepare for the Holidays and Nurture Your Relationships
Welcome to Heart of the Matter Podcast/Radio. As the holiday season approaches, Cynthia and her guest, , delve into the topic of making memories with your family. Afterall, you will look back on the happy times with loved ones rather than fret over what you didn't purchase. They discuss how to make the holiday special by spending time with family and by remembering those who are missing from your circle. Janet also offered tips for those who might be grieving as well as making decisions with family members about what they find meaningful. Tune into this heartfelt conversation and get inspired to prioritize relationships this holiday season. As a gift to her listeners, Cynthia is offering memories of her childhood Christmas as well as a recipe for a cake her mother used to make. For that gift, click .
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Nurturing Gratitude: Practical Tips for Fostering Thankful and Respectful Children
11/09/2023
Nurturing Gratitude: Practical Tips for Fostering Thankful and Respectful Children
In this episode of Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast, Cynthia chats with author and parenting expert, . They tackle the reason we see so much modern day disrespect, and Jill believes we have placed too much emphasis on self-esteem. Instead Jill believes we should avoid fostering a sense of entitlement and teach children to give to others. The episode also features heartwarming stories that hightlight the beauty of gratefulness. Check out Jill's ministry .
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Approaching the Topic of Death with Kids
11/02/2023
Approaching the Topic of Death with Kids
Welcome back to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. In today's podcast, we discussed a tough topic: how to approach the topic death with your children. Our guest was who wrote the children's book Fly High: Understanding Grief with God's Help. Our hostess, Cynthia, shared her experiences and fears surrounding death in childhood. In contrast, Janet offered guidance on using nature as an example. She suggested allowing a kid to say goodbye in his or her own way as well as being sensitive to the child's age. Join us for this important and useful conversation.
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What is a Near Death Experience and a Deathbed Experience?
10/30/2023
What is a Near Death Experience and a Deathbed Experience?
Welcome to a special episode of Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast for Halloween. We are all curious about death and what comes afterward. has extensively researched Near death and Death Bed experiences and written several books on the topic. He and Cynthia discussed his work. This is a clip of a longer video. They discussed whether these experiences are compatible with Christianity. You can watch that video .
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Unraveling the Mystery of Praying Personalities
10/26/2023
Unraveling the Mystery of Praying Personalities
Welcome to the Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. This week we continued the conversation with on praying personalities. She introduced us to four praying personalities, which are Problem Solver, Friend of God, Organized Prayer, and Peace Seeker. You can take an online test to discover which best describes you . Each praying personality has unique characterisics and app;roaches to God. Join Cynthia and Janet as they discuss this interesting topic.
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Embracing Your Unique Prayer Personality
10/19/2023
Embracing Your Unique Prayer Personality
Welcome to the Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. In today's episode we delved into the fascinating topic of prayer and discuss how each of us approaches prayer differently. Cynthia interviewed author who is a prayer warrior and author of Praying Personalities: Finding My Natural Prayer Style. Janet explained how she noticed different prayer personalities in Scripture, ranging from emotive to devotional to physical prayer styles. She encouraged people to embrace their natural inclination while challenging us to avoid using busyness as an excuse. Join us as we tap into the topic of prayer personalities and discover how God's economy works beyond our understanding
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Supporting Family Members with Anxiety and Mental Illness
10/12/2023
Supporting Family Members with Anxiety and Mental Illness
Welcome to another episode of Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast where we dive deep into important topics that impact our lives. In today's episode, we have a special guest, who wrote Are You Ready to Find Joy When Life Gets Messy? Carole brings her personal experience and insights on caring for her husband who struggles with mental illness. She sheds light on early signs to watch for such as mood swings or anxiety, and she emphasizes the importance of getting professional help. In addition, Carol offers coping mechanisams for family members, highlighting the importance of listening without internalizing. Join us as we explore this crucial topic and gain valuable information from Carol's inspiring story.
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Secrets to Improving Your Mental Health
10/05/2023
Secrets to Improving Your Mental Health
Welcome to another episode of Heart of the Matter Radio Podcast. We have a thought-provoking guest, , who will discuss the important topic of mental health. Increased anxiety and depression after the pandemic prompted her to reach out to parents and families. Mel shares her insight on how people respond differently to situations. She emphasizes the need for understanding and empathy. Dr. Tavares reminds us that we are all on a journey toward becoming more like Christ, and she encourages forgiveness as an essential part of personal and spiritual growth. Through out the episode, Mel offers practical advice on building new relationships, improving old ones, and finding a sense of purpose. We also delved into thanksgiving and the power it holds even in adversity. Whether you are seeking guidance on mental health, making new friends, or experienceing a new season in life, this episode has somthing for you. Stay tuned.
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Finding Hope and Joy in Times of Uncertainty
09/28/2023
Finding Hope and Joy in Times of Uncertainty
Welcome to another episode of Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. Today we have the pleasure of hosting , author of the devotional book, Fresh Hope for Today. With everything happening in the world today, it's easy to lose hope and feel overwhelmed. That's why we are diving into the topic of mental health for the next few weeks. Grace's book filled with touching and beautiful reflections reminds us our hope lies in Christ. Join us as we discuss the power of prayer, finding hope in little moments, and how God's love can bring us joy and encouragement. Stay tuned for an unlifting conversation that will remind you of the hope available to you even in life's challenges.
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Parenting Ahead: Build a Strong Foundation for the Teen Years
09/21/2023
Parenting Ahead: Build a Strong Foundation for the Teen Years
Welcome! In today's episode, we have a special guest joining us, , to discuss her book, Parenting Ahead. Parenting is a lifelong journey, and it's crucial to start planning for the teen years and beyond. Kristen shares insightful tips on proactive parenting, measuring success, and how parents can mature as individuals. We delve into the differences between proactive and reactive parenting styles, as well as the influence idols have on our parenting decisions. Join us as we explore the challenges and joys of parenting and gain valuable insights from Kristen's wisdom and experience. Stay tuned for an engaging and thought provoking conversation.
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Constitution Day Special: Unpacking our Constitution
09/14/2023
Constitution Day Special: Unpacking our Constitution
Welcome to another exciting episode of Heart of the Matter Radio. We delve into the fascinating topic of the Constitution just in time to celebrate its signing which occurred on Sept 17, 1787. Laura Key joined Cynthia today. She is doctoral student at Liberty University and a teacher at Colorado Christian. Together they explore the significance of the Consitution, its evolution from the Articless of Confederation, and its relationship to a democracy and a republic. Join us as we travel through history and unravel the connections between our country and its British roots. Get ready for an engaging conversation filled with insights and revelations about the longest lasting set of laws in history. Celebrate Constitution Day with Cynthia and Laura!
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Unlocking the Power of Hospitality: A Deep Dive into Creating Meaningful Connections
09/07/2023
Unlocking the Power of Hospitality: A Deep Dive into Creating Meaningful Connections
Hey everyone! I just finished an amazing podcast with DeAnna Kane on the power of hospitality. We talked about how hospitality is not just fancy decor or big events. It is about genuine connections and creativity. DeAnna and her business partner started an online magazine called where they share tips on having the best parties and events. The even introduced the idea of "fast food hospitality" which is a quick and easy way to stay connected in our fast paced world. So if you're looking to create meaningful connections and celebrate women, you have got to check out their . Remember: hospitality before pride. I also offered a few ideas of my own about hospitality . Stay tuned for more exciting episodes and click that follow button so you never miss out. Cheers to creating connections and celebrating together.
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Hope for a Disabled Child
08/31/2023
Hope for a Disabled Child
We all want a bright future for our children, and it's tough when we learn a child is less than perfect. What can a parent do? had a beautiful baby girl who had Down's Syndrome. She was heartbroken. However, she grew closer to God and learned to educate her daughter. Annie's book, From Ignorance to Bliss, unfolds her secrets to success.
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What if Your Child Questions Christianity?
08/24/2023
What if Your Child Questions Christianity?
I can recall questioning the existance of Santa Claus. How could he visit every household in just one night? How did he get inside my house since we had no fireplace? Did he really know everything I had done? Your children will question what you have taught them about God. As Francis Schaeffer pointed out, Christianity can handle their questions. Mike McGarry just published Discover: Questioning Your Way to Faith. He joined me this week, and we discussed common issues kids wonder about.
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