Murder, Mystery and Mayhem Laced with Morality

Dr. Katherine Hutchinson Hayes
  • 5.0 (21)
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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. Ben Leman—Discusses His #1 Best-selling book Between The Tines

    4D AGO

    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
  2. 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
  3. 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
  4. 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. C.J. Toca–Spiritual Mysteries, Hidden Truths, and Global Mayhem

    APR 12

    C.J. Toca–Spiritual Mysteries, Hidden Truths, and Global Mayhem

    C.J. Toca enjoys writing suspense and mystery fiction with an eye toward spiritual or mystical aspects of life. So it should be of no surprise that The Secret Heir contained both a spiritual and mystical component. If readers enjoyed that aspect of the book, Toca’s next work, the prequel, The Vacant Seat is a spiritual mystery, setting the stage for the adventures and relationships between Stefania, Thomas, Greschenko and Anatoly and others in The Secret Heir.  As some reviewers have pointed out, hints abound in The Secret Heir relating to their past adventure and relationships, and new ones to come in the sequel to The Secret Heir, The Lost Painting. Toca enjoys settings which are somewhat unique and not often used, such as rural and urban New Jersey, rural Scotland, Malta, the Cape Verde Islands, Brazil and Turkmenistan, rural  Arizona, and Mexico, in The Secret Heir. The Vacant Seat transports the reader to Italy, but also again to rural Scotland, and Brazil, Toca’s intent is to paint a description of the locales to hopefully transport the reader there. Toca enjoys reading fiction and non-fiction, is an Anglophile, and religion, art, and history buff. Make sure to check out this author : https://cjtoca.com/ You can listen to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcast, or visit my website www.drkatherinehayes.com💗 #authors #podcast #interview #apple #spotify #google #authorsofinstagram #books #read #reader #writerscommunity #listen #writer #write #mayhem #authorlife #author #bookstagram #blog #book #booklover #authorssupportingauthors #writersofinstagram #writers #readersofinstagram #readersofig #readersgonnaread #mystery #diversebooksmatter #CJToca #TheLostPainting

    38 min
  6. 🎙️ David Jones III—Where History, Courage, and Consequence Collide

    APR 5

    🎙️ David Jones III—Where History, Courage, and Consequence Collide

    What happens when ordinary lives are thrust into extraordinary moments that shape a nation? In this compelling episode of Murder, Mystery, & Mayhem Laced with Morality, we sit down with historian and storyteller David Jones III, whose passion for the Revolutionary War era breathes life into the untold human stories behind America’s founding. With a B.A. in History from Indiana University, David masterfully explores the intersection of courage, consequence, and choice—revealing how the decisions of everyday individuals helped shape the course of history. As the United States commemorates its 250th anniversary, David’s work serves as both a tribute and a reminder: history is not just about events—it’s about people, purpose, and the moral weight of every decision. ✨ In this episode, we explore: • The power of storytelling in preserving history • How moral choices define both individuals and nations • The untold, human side of the Revolutionary War • Why history still matters today 🎧 Tune in and discover how the past continues to speak into our present. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or visit: 💗 www.drkatherinehayes.com 🌐 Learn more about David Jones III: www.davidjones3.com #history #americanhistory #revolutionarywar #authors #authorinterview #writersofinstagram #bookstagram #historicalfiction #storytelling #faithandculture #morality #readersofinstagram #authorlife #writerscommunity #podcaster #listenandlearn #america250 #diversevoices #booksbooksbooks

    41 min
  7. Edwina Perkins—The Colors of Home & the Power of Inclusive Storytelling

    MAR 29

    Edwina Perkins—The Colors of Home & the Power of Inclusive Storytelling

    What happens when storytelling becomes a bridge between culture, faith, and identity? In this powerful episode of Murder, Mystery, & Mayhem Laced with Morality, I sit down with the incredible Edwina Perkins—award-winning author, editor, mentor, and fierce advocate for inclusive storytelling within Christian publishing. With her highly anticipated debut novel, The Colors of Home, set to release, Edwina shares the heart behind her work—why representation matters, how stories can heal, and what it truly means to champion diverse voices with authenticity and grace. As co-director of the Blue Ridge Mountain Christian Writers Conference, Edwina has helped shape countless writers through mentoring moments and sensitivity guidance—ensuring stories are not only told, but told well. ✨ In this episode, we discuss: • The inspiration behind The Colors of Home • Writing across cultures with care and responsibility • The importance of diverse voices in faith-based storytelling • Her journey as an author, educator, and mentor • And yes… a little mystery, meaning, and moral reflection along the way When she’s not writing or coaching others, Edwina is soaking up her favorite role—being “Nona” to her two grandchildren 💛 This conversation is rich, thought-provoking, and one you don’t want to miss. Stay in touch with Edwina: https://www.edwinaperkins.com/ 🎧 Tune in now and be inspired to tell stories that truly matter. 👇 Drop a 🎙️ in the comments when you’ve listened! #PodcastEpisode #ChristianAuthors #InclusiveStorytelling #TheColorsOfHome #WritersCommunity #FaithAndWriting #BookPodcast #DiverseVoices #AuthorLife #Dressedinlovepress #EdwinaPerkins #Murdermysteryandmayhemlacedwithmorality

    32 min
  8. Pat Daily—From the Air Force to NASA to Author of the SPARK Chronicles

    MAR 22

    Pat Daily—From the Air Force to NASA to Author of the SPARK Chronicles

    In this compelling episode of Murder, Mystery, & Mayhem Laced with Morality, we sit down with Pat Daily—CEO of Boundary Layer, Inc., former Air Force test pilot, NASA engineer, and author of The SPARK Chronicles. From piloting high-risk missions to shaping the future of human performance and safety, Pat brings a rare perspective forged in environments where every decision matters. His work spans the Space Shuttle and International Space Station programs, global consulting in high-risk industries, and pioneering advancements in electric and hydrogen-powered aviation. But beyond the science and innovation lies a deeper story… A storyteller at heart, Pat explores the intersection of technology, identity, and consequence through his near-future science fiction series—raising powerful questions about what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world. In this episode, we dive into: ✨ High-stakes decision making under pressure ✨ The psychology of risk and human performance ✨ The moral implications of emerging technologies ✨ How storytelling reveals truth in ways data never can Whether you’re drawn to mystery, fascinated by innovation, or searching for meaning in the chaos, this conversation will challenge and inspire you. 🎧 Tune in and discover how morality weaves through even the most advanced frontiers of science and survival. Stay in touch with Pat Daily: https://thepatdaily.com/about-elementor #MurderMysteryMayhem #DressedInLovePress #PatDailyAuthor #FaithAndPurpose #SciFiMeetsReality

    38 min
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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.

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