Murder, Mystery and Mayhem Laced with Morality

Dr. Katherine Hutchinson Hayes

Murder, Mystery, & Mayhem Laced with Morality is a gripping learning and networking hub for writers who dare to explore the shadows—without losing sight of the light. Rooted in suspense, thriller, mystery, and crime, this podcast features powerful conversations with authors, publishing professionals, and experts in law enforcement, psychology, forensics, editing, marketing, and storytelling craft. Each episode pulls back the curtain on what it takes to write stories that are authentic, compelling, and unforgettable. Whether you’re crafting a high-stakes thriller, a redemptive romance, a memoir born from lived experience, or faith-based nonfiction, you’ll gain practical insight on character development, research, storytelling structure, and navigating the publishing journey—where truth matters, justice has a voice, and light pierces through the darkness with the spoken and written word.

  1. Chuck Richardson—Exploring Truth, Redemption, and "What If?" Through Fiction

    5d ago

    Chuck Richardson—Exploring Truth, Redemption, and "What If?" Through Fiction

    🎙️ Chuck Richardson: What If Humanity Never Fell? Exploring Faith, Redemption, and Alternate Realities Through Christian Speculative Fiction What if Adam and Eve had never sinned? What would humanity look like if the Fall had never occurred? How can speculative fiction help us better understand God’s plan, redemption, and our relationship with Him? In this fascinating episode of Murder, Mystery & Mayhem Laced with Morality, Dr. Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes sits down with award-winning Christian speculative fiction author Chuck Richardson for an engaging conversation about faith, imagination, theology, and storytelling. Chuck Richardson writes speculative fiction with a Christian worldview for readers who question everything and seek truth. His novels tackle some of life’s most profound questions, inviting readers to examine sin, redemption, sanctification, spiritual warfare, and the eternal struggle between good and evil through the lens of compelling stories. A former engineer, educator, consultant, technical writer, curriculum developer, and lifelong Bible teacher, Chuck brings a unique blend of analytical thinking and spiritual insight to his writing. His debut novel, True Status, was recognized as a finalist in the 2024 Next Generation Indie Book Awards. The novel explores a future world where identity, truth, and purpose are challenged in ways that force readers to consider what truly defines human worth. His second novel, Paradise Unfallen, takes readers on an extraordinary journey by imagining a world in which humanity’s first parents never chose disobedience. The result is a thought-provoking exploration of God’s original design, free will, human nature, and the consequences of our choices. During this episode, Chuck shares: ✨ How his Christian faith shapes every aspect of his storytelling 📚 The inspiration behind True Status and Paradise Unfallen 🙏 Why understanding what God thinks about us is the most important truth we can learn ⚔️ How fiction can illuminate spiritual warfare and the battle between good and evil 🖋️ His transition from engineering and technical writing to an award-winning novelist 🎓 Lessons learned from decades of teaching, training, and mentoring adults 📖 His service as an elder, deacon, Bible teacher, and Christian leader for more than thirty-five years 💡 Why asking “What If?” can lead to deeper spiritual understanding Born and raised in Rome, New York, Chuck earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Education before building successful careers in engineering, consulting, quality management, training, and curriculum development. Today, he resides in Louisville, Kentucky, with Ruby, his wife of more than thirty-seven years. Together they have two daughters, Brittany and Jillian. Whether you’re a reader of Christian fiction, a lover of speculative fiction, a writer seeking inspiration, or someone wrestling with life’s biggest spiritual questions, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and a fresh perspective on faith and storytelling. 🔗 Learn more about Chuck Richardson and his books:https://chuckrichardsonstories.com/true-status-is-about/ 🎙️ Subscribe to Murder, Mystery & Mayhem Laced with Morality for more conversations with authors, storytellers, and thought leaders whose work entertains, inspires, and points readers toward truth. #ChuckRichardson#MurderMysteryAndMayhem#LacedWithMorality#ChristianAuthor#ChristianFiction#SpeculativeFiction#ChristianSpeculativeFiction#ParadiseUnfallen#TrueStatus#ChristianBooks#FaithAndFiction#BiblicalWorldview#ChristianLiving#ChristianPodcast#AuthorInterview#BookPodcast#KingdomWriters#ChristianWriters#FaithBasedStories#GoodVsEvil#Redemption#Sanctification#SpiritualGrowth#ChristianReaders#BookLovers#WritingCommunity#AuthorSpotlight#Storytelling#FaithMatters#PodcastL

    37 min
  2. Helena Smrcek—From Story-time Memories to A K-9 Mountain Promise

    May 31

    Helena Smrcek—From Story-time Memories to A K-9 Mountain Promise

    What begins with a grandparent’s bedtime story can grow into a lifelong calling. In this inspiring episode of Murder, Mystery & Mayhem Laced with Morality, host Dr. Katherine Hutchinson-Hayes welcomes author Helena Smrcek for a conversation about storytelling, faith, suspense, and the transformative power of fiction. Helena shares how childhood evenings spent listening to her grandparents’ stories sparked her passion for writing and ultimately led her to create captivating novels filled with hope, heart, mystery, and inspiration. Together, we discuss her writing journey, the role mentors have played in her life, and why stories remain one of the most powerful ways to connect with others. We also take a special look at her upcoming release: 🐾 A K-9 Mountain Promise📅 Releasing June 30, 2026 Whether you’re a reader, writer, or lover of uplifting suspense, this episode offers encouragement, inspiration, and a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process. In This Episode: Helena’s journey from childhood storyteller to published authorThe influence of family and mentors on her writing careerCreating compelling romantic suspense and inspirational fictionThe importance of hope and morality in storytellingBehind-the-scenes insights into A K-9 Mountain PromiseAdvice for aspiring writersConnect with Helena Smrcek: 🌐 Website: www.helenasmrcek.com About the Book: A K-9 Mountain Promise releases on June 30, 2026, and promises readers an unforgettable blend of suspense, faith, courage, and heart. Subscribe & Follow If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow Murder, Mystery & Mayhem Laced with Morality on Spotify and your favorite podcast platform. Leave a review and share this episode with fellow readers, writers, and mystery lovers! #HelenaSmrcek #AK9MountainPromise #MurderMysteryAndMayhemLacedWithMorality #AuthorInterview #RomanticSuspense #ChristianFiction #InspirationalFiction #Podcast #BookPodcast #Storytelling #FaithAndFiction #WritersLife #BookLovers

    40 min
  3. Terrance Niedziela Jr.— Epic Fantasy, Moral Choices, and the World of Tales of Aras: Becoming Fire & Lightning

    May 25

    Terrance Niedziela Jr.— Epic Fantasy, Moral Choices, and the World of Tales of Aras: Becoming Fire & Lightning

    What happens when epic fantasy collides with powerful questions of morality, courage, and destiny? In this electrifying episode of Murder, Mystery & Mayhem Laced with Morality, special guest author Terrance Niedziela Jr. steps into the spotlight to discuss his speculative fantasy novel, Tales of Aras: Becoming Fire & Lightning. Join us as we explore the inspiration behind the world of Aras, the battle between fire and lightning, unforgettable characters, world-building, and the deeper moral themes woven throughout the story. Terrance shares insights into crafting immersive fantasy, balancing action with meaning, and why stories of light versus darkness still resonate so deeply with readers today. If you love epic fantasy, powerful adventures, dragons, elemental magic, and stories with heart, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. ⚡ Epic fantasy⚔️ Moral dilemmas🐉 Dragons, danger, and destiny🎙️ Author insights and behind-the-scenes storytelling Learn more about Terrance Niedziela Jr. and his work here:https://terranceniedzielajr.com/ #TerranceNiedzielaJr #TalesOfAras #BecomingFireAndLightning #EpicFantasy #FantasyBooks #SpeculativeFantasy #AuthorInterview #FantasyAuthor #BookPodcast #MurderMysteryAndMayhem #FantasyReaders #Bookstagram #DragonFantasy #IndieAuthor #WritersLife #FantasyWorldBuilding #PodcastEpisode #BooksAndMagic #ChristianFantasy #AdventureFantasy

    34 min
  4. Ben Leman—Discusses His #1 Best-selling book Between The Tines

    May 10

    Ben Leman—Discusses His #1 Best-selling book Between The Tines

    What happens when rugged adventure, political insight, Scottish clan warfare, moral conflict, and suspenseful storytelling collide? Ben Leman dives into the inspirations behind his thrilling fiction, his deep Texas roots, and the real-world experiences that shape his storytelling. In this captivating episode, Ben shares how his lifelong fascination with Scottish Highland clan conflicts inspired his debut novel, Between the Tines, and how his travels through Scotland helped bring authenticity and emotional depth to the story. From the wilderness of Alaska to elk hunts in the mountain West, Ben’s adventurous spirit and passion for history fuel a narrative voice grounded in courage, legacy, and truth. Listeners will also hear how Ben’s years serving as a County Judge and State Representative in Texas sharpened the political insight, leadership themes, and moral complexity woven throughout his upcoming trilogy. This episode explores: The intersection of morality and suspenseScottish history and Highland clan warfareAdventure as inspiration for storytellingLeadership, legacy, and public serviceThe creative process behind Between the TinesWhy authentic locations matter in fictionHow real-life experience shapes unforgettable storiesIf you love gripping fiction, meaningful conversations, historical intrigue, and stories filled with heart, mystery, and purpose, this episode is for you. Ben Leman is a businessman, rancher, licensed pilot, and fourth-generation Texan whose appetite for adventure has carried him from the remote wilderness of Alaska to elk hunts in the mountain West and travels across the globe. Proud of his Scottish heritage, Ben spent years researching the fierce conflicts between Highland clans—research that became the foundation for his debut novel, Between the Tines. His dedication to authenticity led him to many of the real Scottish locations featured throughout the book. Ben also served the people of Texas as both a County Judge and State Representative, experiences that deeply informed the political and moral dimensions of his upcoming trilogy. 🌍 Website: Ben Leman Author Website📧 Email: ben@benlemanauthor.com📱 Phone: (979) 255-2004 📘 Facebook: @benlemanauthor📸 Instagram: @benlemanauthor❌ X/Twitter: @benlemanauthor 📚 About Ben Leman🌐 Connect with Ben Leman🔖 Hashtags#BenLeman #BetweenTheTines #MurderMysteryAndMayhem #LacedWithMorality #ScottishHeritage #HistoricalSuspense #AuthorPodcast #TexasAuthor #AdventureStories #FaithAndFiction #SuspenseBooks #MysteryPodcast #Storytelling #ScottishClans #ThrillerBooks

    35 min
  5. James L. Hill—From the Bronx to Bulletproof Stories:Where Darkness Meets Redemption

    May 3

    James L. Hill—From the Bronx to Bulletproof Stories:Where Darkness Meets Redemption

    In this powerful episode of Murder, Mystery, & Mayhem Laced with Morality, we sit down with James L. Hill, a storyteller whose life journey is as layered and compelling as the characters he creates. Raised in the South Bronx during a turbulent era shaped by the Civil Rights Movement, the Vietnam War, and cultural revolution, James developed a perspective forged through both chaos and curiosity. His experiences—ranging from disciplined Catholic education to seasons of personal exploration—have shaped a unique voice that navigates the tension between darkness and redemption. Writing under J.L. Hill, he is the author of the gripping “Killer With…” crime series featuring Bulletproof Morris “Mojo” Johnson, as well as imaginative works like Pegasus: A Journey to New Eden and the Gem Stones Series. His stories span crime, science fiction, and fantasy—each exploring the complexities of human nature and the consequences of choice. In this conversation, we explore:• The real-life experiences that shaped his storytelling• The blurred lines between morality, survival, and identity• Why even the darkest stories can reveal deeper truths This episode is a reminder that behind every mystery and every moment of mayhem…there is a story worth understanding. ✨ Where light pierces through the darkness with the spoken and written word. 🔗 Connect with James L. Hill 🌐 Website: https://rockhillpublishing.com/james-l-hill-aka-j-l-hill.html 🔖 Hashtags #JamesLHill #JLHill #MurderMysteryAndMayhemLacedWithMorality #PodcastEpisode #TrueCrimePodcast #AuthorInterview #CrimeFiction #IndieAuthor #Storytelling #RedemptionStories #FaithAndTruth #ChristianPodcast #WritersLife #BookCommunity #PodcastLife #NewEpisode #ListenNow #BlackPodcasters

    51 min
  6. Dr.Stephen Edwards— A Raw Journey into Truth, Relationships & Self-Discovery

    Apr 26

    Dr.Stephen Edwards— A Raw Journey into Truth, Relationships & Self-Discovery

    What happens when love, trauma, and truth collide? In this slightly spicy, powerful episode of Murder, Mystery, & Mayhem Laced with Morality, we sit down with Dr. Stephen Paul Edwards—author, speaker, and spiritual development coach—whose life story will challenge everything you think you know about relationships, identity, and personal transformation. From working alongside some of the world’s top personal development leaders to navigating the depths of addiction, toxic relationships, and emotional healing, Stephen’s journey is anything but ordinary. His memoir, The Venus Fly Trap, pulls back the curtain on a relationship that was as captivating as it was destructive—forcing him to confront hidden wounds and rediscover his true self.   In this episode, we dive deep into:💥 The psychology behind toxic and addictive relationships💥 How trauma and belief systems shape our choices💥 The truth about self-awareness, masculinity, and healing💥 Breaking free from destructive cycles and reclaiming purpose Stephen’s message is clear: transformation begins when you stop running from yourself and start facing the truth. This is more than a conversation—it’s an awakening. 👉 Tune in now👉 Share with someone who needs breakthrough👉 Step into truth, healing, and purpose #PodcastGuest #StephenEdwards #AuthorInterview #PersonalGrowth #HealingJourney #SelfDiscovery #ToxicRelationships #MentalHealthAwareness #SpiritualGrowth #PurposeDrivenLife #ChristianPodcast #FaithAndGrowth #TruthAndHealing #PodcastLife #MurderMysteryMayhem #DrKatherineHayes

    46 min
  7. Rachael M. Colby — Uncovering the Beauty of Belonging Through Tropical Dreams

    Apr 19

    Rachael M. Colby — Uncovering the Beauty of Belonging Through Tropical Dreams

    Get ready to take a vibrant journey to the islands in this heartwarming episode featuring award-winning author Rachael M. Colby, creator of the beautiful children’s picture book Tropical Dreams, releasing April 21! 🌴📚✨ Born and raised in Jamaica and now living in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Rachael brings her rich cultural heritage and deep faith into her storytelling. In this engaging conversation, she shares the inspiration behind Tropical Dreams, her love for culture and community, and her passion for helping children see themselves reflected in the stories they read. 🌍 Tropical Dreams is a joyful, rhythmic celebration of island life filled with culture, unity, and imagination. This story encourages children to appreciate diversity, embrace togetherness, and celebrate the beauty of belonging. ✨ The inspiration behind Tropical Dreams 🇯🇲 How Rachael’s Jamaican roots shaped her storytelling 📖 Her journey to becoming an award-winning author 🌍 Why representation in children’s books matters ✝️ How faith influences her writing and message 👨‍👩‍👧 Encouragement for families, educators, and young readers Rachael M. Colby is an award-winning writer known for her work in articles, devotions, essays, poetry, flash fiction, and children’s picture books. She writes to uplift readers, connect culture with faith, and inspire unity through storytelling. 🌐 Website: https://tattooitonyourheart.com/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachael.colby.9 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachaelmcolby 🐦 X (Twitter): https://x.com/RachaelColby7 Tropical Dreams releases April 21! Be sure to grab a copy and share this joyful celebration of culture, imagination, and unity with the children in your life. 🌺📖 Grab your copy: https://www.amazon.com/Tropical-Dreams-Beach-Bound-Books/dp/1970354070/ref=sr_1_1?crid=67AS4MUDGQP5&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.elymfcdgbuQMJpr-5m1-b7xQBNQkWZ60zbg2hS_cKBlUznufadRoCVZKxLZWQZdP8BSwmyxKkfV42lUI-FoCg-EUyjVEX6syDFpjQWfIJDJjHUuBq_CayegLIErh4UDVZqk81yRf8DXyloutEbJJm2wMSZRXJoG7c230iqsLu121kT7tp638lgsKBcsDgtlSJB9GtX6LoY4A7X0K1zhloYNMSHapwugHL07UISnV95c.3GwWlw0ncbzIa1TjxKAyyU7DHIUmOhaBBDbejI8z4TU&dib_tag=se&keywords=Tropical+Dreams&qid=1776551195&s=books&sprefix=tropical+dreams%2Cstripbooks%2C165&sr=1-1 #Children’s Books • #Diverse Books • #Author Interview • #Christian Publishing • #Multicultural Stories • #Family #Reading • #Island Culture • #Representation Matters 🎧 In This Episode, You’ll Discover:🌴 About the Author🔗 Connect with Rachael M. Colby📚 Book Release Reminder🔖 Episode Keywords

    37 min
5
out of 5
21 Ratings

About

Murder, Mystery, & Mayhem Laced with Morality is a gripping learning and networking hub for writers who dare to explore the shadows—without losing sight of the light. Rooted in suspense, thriller, mystery, and crime, this podcast features powerful conversations with authors, publishing professionals, and experts in law enforcement, psychology, forensics, editing, marketing, and storytelling craft. Each episode pulls back the curtain on what it takes to write stories that are authentic, compelling, and unforgettable. Whether you’re crafting a high-stakes thriller, a redemptive romance, a memoir born from lived experience, or faith-based nonfiction, you’ll gain practical insight on character development, research, storytelling structure, and navigating the publishing journey—where truth matters, justice has a voice, and light pierces through the darkness with the spoken and written word.