Plot Twist Radio

Erin Egnatz
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Arts
  • Updated Weekly

Plot Twist Radio is where the best stories aren’t just written… they’re lived. Plot Twist Radio brings you conversations with authors, creators, and storytellers, uncovering the moments that changed everything. We dive into storytelling and inspiration through personal growth journeys. Each episode uncovers the defining plot twist that sparks transformation, featuring authors, entrepreneurs, artists, musicians, athletes, screenwriters, and more. Host Erin Egnatz (Hauntings Around America, Eliza Nevius) brings a narrative-driven approach to stories about unexpected turns that shape lives.

  1. Richard H. Moon on Ancient Egypt, the Bronze Age Collapse, Horror Fantasy, and Bringing History to Life

    1d ago

    Richard H. Moon on Ancient Egypt, the Bronze Age Collapse, Horror Fantasy, and Bringing History to Life

    What happens when one of history's greatest mysteries becomes the foundation for an epic horror fantasy? On this episode of Plot Twist Radio, Erin sits down with award-winning screenwriter, producer, and novelist Richard H. Moon to discuss his debut novel, To Conquer Death. Inspired by the mysterious Bronze Age Collapse, ancient Egypt, and historical archaeology, Richard explores how little we truly know about one of civilization's greatest turning points—and how fiction can fill in the gaps with unforgettable storytelling. The conversation dives into the differences between writing novels and screenplays, adapting stories across mediums, creating believable fantasy worlds rooted in history, developing complex characters, and balancing historical accuracy with imaginative worldbuilding. Whether you're fascinated by ancient civilizations, historical fiction, fantasy novels, horror writing, or the craft of storytelling itself, this episode offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at bringing the distant past to life. In this episode: Why Richard transitioned from screenwriting to novel writingThe mystery behind the Bronze Age CollapseBuilding a horror fantasy set in ancient EgyptWriting believable historical fiction when history leaves questions unansweredCreating characters that surprise their own authorThe challenges of adapting stories for books versus filmThe inspiration behind To Conquer DeathWhy history and fantasy make such a compelling combinationIf you enjoy conversations about writing, archaeology, mythology, filmmaking, and historical mysteries, you'll love this episode. Where to find Richard: Website Episode Tags: Bronze Age Collapse, Ancient Egypt, Historical Fiction, Horror Fantasy, Richard H. Moon, To Conquer Death, Screenwriting, Novel Writing, Fantasy Author, Ancient History, Archaeology, Historical Horror, Writing Process, Plot Twist Radio, Erin Egnatz, Book Interview, Indie Author, Worldbuilding, Egyptian History, Fantasy Books

    23 min
  2. Chad Boudreaux on Mob Justice, Chicago Organized Crime, and Writing Thrillers with Real DOJ Experience

    4d ago

    Chad Boudreaux on Mob Justice, Chicago Organized Crime, and Writing Thrillers with Real DOJ Experience

    What happens when a former Department of Justice attorney and Homeland Security investigator turns decades of real-world experience into gripping crime fiction? In this episode of Plot Twist Radio, Erin sits down with bestselling thriller author Chad Boudreaux to discuss his latest novel, Mob Justice. From resurrecting Chicago's legendary crime families to creating morally complex villains and authentic law enforcement investigations, Chad shares how his career prosecuting organized crime shapes every page of his novels. The conversation explores the balance between realism and storytelling, the challenges of writing cinematic action scenes, the influence of Robert Ludlum, researching hidden tunnels beneath Chicago, and why the best antagonists aren't purely evil. Chad also previews his upcoming thriller Borderfall and offers a behind-the-scenes look at the writing process behind the Scavenger Hunt series. If you're a fan of crime thrillers, legal suspense, organized crime history, and character-driven fiction, this episode is for you. Topics include: Chad Boudreaux's career with the Department of Justice and Homeland SecurityWriting Mob Justice and the modern Chicago OutfitReal organized crime investigations vs. fictionBuilding compelling heroes and morally gray villainsThe research behind authentic crime novelsRobert Ludlum's influence on modern thrillersWriting action scenes that keep readers hookedA preview of Chad's next novel, Borderfall🎙️ Subscribe to Plot Twist Radio for conversations with bestselling authors, filmmakers, athletes, musicians, historians, and fascinating storytellers from every walk of life. Find Chad at his website here.

    15 min
  3. The Power of Story: Ray Hartjen on Fiction, Music, Marketing, and Multiple Myeloma

    Jun 23

    The Power of Story: Ray Hartjen on Fiction, Music, Marketing, and Multiple Myeloma

    What do investment banking, marketing, music, espionage thrillers, and cancer advocacy have in common? For author and storyteller Ray Hartjen, they're all part of the same journey. In this episode of Plot Twist Radio, Erin sits down with author and musician Ray Hartjen to discuss his transition from a career in finance, consulting, and marketing into the world of writing fiction. Ray shares how storytelling became the common thread throughout his professional and creative life, leading him to publish multiple books, including the espionage thrillers Outflanked and The Iranian Fiasco. The conversation also explores Ray's personal plot twist: his diagnosis with multiple myeloma in 2019. Ray opens up about becoming a patient advocate, the importance of community during difficult health journeys, and why helping others facing serious illnesses has become one of the most meaningful parts of his life. Whether you're a writer, reader, creative professional, cancer survivor, caregiver, or someone navigating life's unexpected turns, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and a powerful reminder that every person has a story worth telling. In this episode: Ray Hartjen's journey from finance and marketing to fiction writingHow storytelling connects business, music, and literatureWriting espionage thrillers and creating compelling charactersThe challenges of modern publishing and changing reader habitsLiving with multiple myeloma and becoming a patient advocateWhy community and connection matter during life's toughest momentsConnect with Ray Hartjen:Website: rayhartjen.comBooks available wherever books are sold. 🎙️ Subscribe to Plot Twist Radio for conversations with authors, musicians, athletes, entertainers, and people whose lives took unexpected turns. #RayHartjen #PlotTwistRadio #AuthorInterview #EspionageThriller #Outflanked #TheIranianFiasco #Storytelling #MultipleMyeloma #CancerAdvocacy #WritingCommunity #Authors #BookPodcast #CreativeJourney #Marketing #MusicAndWriting

    20 min
  4. Jason Salmon on Comedy, Joy, and Finding Your Playground

    Jun 21

    Jason Salmon on Comedy, Joy, and Finding Your Playground

    What happens when a comedian's mission is simply to make people happy? In this episode of Plot Twist Radio, Erin sits down with comedian, actor, and writer Jason Salmon for a thoughtful conversation about comedy, creativity, and finding joy in unexpected places. Jason shares how growing up in Texas shaped his perspective, why curiosity is the foundation of great comedy, and how a childhood habit of making church audiences laugh eventually became a career. The conversation explores the realities of life as a touring stand-up comedian, including rejection, failure, performing for difficult crowds, and learning to thrive under pressure. Jason also reflects on unforgettable experiences entertaining U.S. troops overseas, including performing in Afghanistan during an active war zone and witnessing firsthand the healing power of laughter. Topics include: • Stand-up comedy and joke writing• Finding joy through creativity• The realities of touring life• Performing for military audiences overseas• Comedy, curiosity, and human connection• Navigating rejection and failure• The evolution of comedy after COVID• Politics, laughter, and bringing people together• Why everyone needs to find their "playground" Whether you're a fan of stand-up comedy, interested in the creative process, or simply looking for an uplifting conversation about purpose and resilience, this episode delivers both laughs and insight. 🎙️ Guest: Jason Salmon🌐 Website: JasonSalmon.com📱 Follow: @JSalmonComedy #JasonSalmon #StandUpComedy #ComedyPodcast #PlotTwistRadio #ComedianInterview #TouringComedian #ComedyLife #CreativeProcess #MilitaryComedyTours #FindingJoy #PodcastInterview #ComedyWriting #TexasComedian #ComedyAndLife #MakeLaughNotWar

    18 min
  5. From Federal Judge to Novelist: Thomas Cullen on Writing Charlie-Man, 1990s Nostalgia & Coming-of-Age Stories

    Jun 17

    From Federal Judge to Novelist: Thomas Cullen on Writing Charlie-Man, 1990s Nostalgia & Coming-of-Age Stories

    Federal Judge and author Thomas Cullen joins Plot Twist Radio to discuss his debut novel, Charlie-Man, a coming-of-age story set in Richmond, Virginia during the 1990s. In this episode, Thomas shares how his own experiences growing up in Richmond helped shape the novel's setting, characters, and themes. We discuss friendship, first love, betrayal, grief, mental health, the pressures facing teenagers, and why stories about growing up continue to resonate across generations. Thomas also talks about transitioning from a distinguished legal career to fiction writing, the challenges of creating authentic characters, and what it was like to trade legal opinions for storytelling. Whether you're a fan of coming-of-age novels, 1990s nostalgia, literary fiction, or stories about resilience and personal growth, this conversation offers a thoughtful look at the experiences that shape who we become. Topics include:• Charlie-Man• Writing fiction after a legal career• Growing up in Richmond, Virginia• 1990s nostalgia• Friendship and betrayal• Teen mental health• First love and coming-of-age stories• The creative writing process Find Judge Cullen's Charlie-Man here. #ThomasCullen #CharlieMan #ComingOfAge #AuthorInterview #PlotTwistRadio #90sNostalgia #BookPodcast #RichmondVirginia #LiteraryFiction #WritingCommunity

    17 min
  6. Andy Haynes on Stand-Up Comedy, Social Media Algorithms, Creative Success & Finding Your Authentic Voice

    Jun 15

    Andy Haynes on Stand-Up Comedy, Social Media Algorithms, Creative Success & Finding Your Authentic Voice

    Stand-up comedian and writer Andy Haynes joins Plot Twist Radio for an honest conversation about the realities of life as a working comedian, the impact of social media on comedy, and what it takes to build a creative career in today's world. Andy shares stories from more than two decades in stand-up comedy, including life on the road, unpredictable audiences, career-defining moments, and the challenges comedians face in the age of algorithms and viral content. We also discuss authenticity in art, comedy's shift from live performance to social media, creative fulfillment, and the advice he would give his younger self. Whether you're a fan of stand-up comedy, a creator navigating social media, or someone pursuing a creative career, this conversation offers valuable insights into success, persistence, and staying true to yourself. Andy Haynes' journey into stand-up comedyThe realities of touring and performing liveHow social media changed the comedy industryViral content vs. long-form creative workThe importance of authenticity in artComedy audiences and crowd dynamicsCreative careers, success, and personal fulfillmentAdvice for aspiring comedians and artists Where to find Andy: Instagram Website #AndyHaynes #StandUpComedy #ComedyPodcast #PlotTwistRadio #Comedians #SocialMedia #CreativeCareers #PodcastInterview #ComedyIndustry #ContentCreation #Entertainment #ComedyLife

    22 min
  7. Lynn Goldsmith on the Magic of the 1980s, Creative Reinvention, Music Icons, and the Legacy of Will Powers

    Jun 10

    Lynn Goldsmith on the Magic of the 1980s, Creative Reinvention, Music Icons, and the Legacy of Will Powers

    *Be sure to stick around until the end to hear one of our favorite singles from Lynn's Will Powers' days, Smile. * In this episode of Plot Twist Radio, Erin Egnatz sits down with legendary photographer, author, musician, and creative visionary Lynn Goldsmith. Known for capturing some of the most iconic images in music history, Lynn reflects on the artists, moments, and cultural shifts that defined the 1980s. From the rise of MTV and the globalization of music to photographing legends like Michael Jackson, Patti Smith, and countless others, Lynn shares why she ultimately came to believe the 1980s may have been the most adventurous decade in music history. She also discusses her groundbreaking musical alter ego, Will Powers, whose positive-message dance music was decades ahead of its time and continues to resonate with listeners today. The conversation also explores creativity, friendship, artistic reinvention, mental health, and Lynn's latest projects, including her new exhibition Shared Light and her work documenting the career of Patti Smith. Topics include: The true legacy of 1980s musicMTV's influence on artists and culturePhotographing music's biggest legendsThe story behind Will PowersCreativity, identity, and reinventionPatti Smith and lifelong artistic friendshipsMusic, photography, and mental healthLynn Goldsmith's latest books and exhibitionsIf you love music history, photography, rock and roll, creative storytelling, and behind-the-scenes stories from one of the most influential photographers of our time, this is an episode you won't want to miss. For more information on her upcoming show and more, head over to her website. Instagram. https://selby.org/dsc/dsc-exhibitions/shared-light-lynn-goldsmith/ Smile: Song by Lynn Goldsmith and Will Powers ‧ 1983 #LynnGoldsmith #MusicPhotography #MTV #1980sMusic #WillPowers #PattiSmith #MichaelJackson #MusicHistory #Photography #PlotTwistRadio #ErinEgnatz #RockAndRoll #CreativeLife #PodcastInterview

    32 min

  8. Jun 9

    How Imagination Strengthens Parent-Child Bonds | Chris Mannino on Storytelling, Bluey & Making It Up

    What if the secret to stronger family relationships isn't another parenting hack—but imagination? In this episode of Plot Twist Radio, Erin sits down with author, TEDx speaker, writing coach, and parenting advocate Chris Mannino to discuss his new book Making It Up and the surprising lessons parents can learn from storytelling, improvisation, and even Bluey. Chris shares how a viral debate about parenting, combined with the challenges of the pandemic, inspired him to develop a practical approach that helps families connect through creativity and shared imagination. From make-believe trips around the world to building stronger communication with children, Chris explains why saying "yes" to a child's ideas can create deeper relationships and lasting memories. The conversation also explores Chris's journey as a fantasy author, his unique writing process, world-building, children's literature, and how imagination continues to shape both his professional and personal life. The inspiration behind Making It Up What parents can learn from BlueyHow imagination strengthens family communicationScreen-free ways to connect with childrenChris's fantasy writing and world-building process Creating children's books with input from his own kidsWhy storytelling matters more than ever in the digital ageWhether you're a parent, writer, educator, or simply someone who believes in the power of imagination, this conversation offers practical insights and heartfelt stories that remind us why creativity matters. Where to find Chris: Website Episode Tags: Chris Mannino, Making It Up, Parenting Podcast, Bluey Parenting, Family Communication, Storytelling, Imagination, Creative Parenting, Plot Twist Radio, Fantasy Author Interview, Writing Process, Children's Books, Parenting Advice, TEDx Speaker, Parenting Through Play, Author Interview, Creative Families, Raising Creative Kids, Family Connection, Improv Parenting

    23 min
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5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Plot Twist Radio is where the best stories aren’t just written… they’re lived. Plot Twist Radio brings you conversations with authors, creators, and storytellers, uncovering the moments that changed everything. We dive into storytelling and inspiration through personal growth journeys. Each episode uncovers the defining plot twist that sparks transformation, featuring authors, entrepreneurs, artists, musicians, athletes, screenwriters, and more. Host Erin Egnatz (Hauntings Around America, Eliza Nevius) brings a narrative-driven approach to stories about unexpected turns that shape lives.

Information

  • Creator
    Erin Egnatz
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    83
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Erin Egnatz
  • Show Website
    Plot Twist Radio