Cynthia Zordich is a writer, editor, and founder of THREAD, a private platform that connects the wives, spouses, and families of NFL players and coaches. She also serves as editor of The Playbook, a magazine dedicated to sharing the stories and voices of the NFL community and is the coauthor of When the Clock Runs Out. With her debut children's picture book, A Bee in a Matchbox, Cynthia brings her passion for storytelling to young readers, inspiring empathy, courage, and connection through the magic of an unlikely friendship. Cynthia is married to former pro safety, Michael Zordich, and they have three children, Michael V., Alex, and Aidan. Learn more at nflthread.com and beeinamatchbox.com.

Anna DeMalo is an illustrator and designer. A Bee in a Matchbox is her first illustrated book, sparking a deeper interest in visual storytelling beyond the page. Anna works freelance in merchandise design, runs a shop featuring curated handmade and vintage goods, and continues to pursue design and illustration across different forms. Visit Anna's shop at shopsunbather.com.