Beyond The Plot Podcast

Lisa El-Behnaihy

Ever wonder about the person behind your favourite book? I'm diving deep with authors to uncover the real personal stories behind their work. If you love reading, writing or you're simply interested in learning more about your favourite authors, this podcast is for you!

  1. 5월 26일

    Leeanne Slade: From Maternity Leave to Audiobook Success & Romantic Storytelling

    International bestselling romance author Leeanne Slade joins the podcast to discuss her incredible journey from maternity leave and corporate life to becoming a full-time author with bestselling audiobooks, a global fanbase, and film adaptations in development. In this episode, Leeanne shares how she built a successful career through Audible Originals, why romance novels continue to resonate with readers worldwide, and how authenticity, emotion, and perseverance shaped her writing journey. We dive into audiobook publishing, romance writing, imposter syndrome, motherhood, creativity, reviews, and the realities of building a modern author career. If you love romance books, audiobooks, publishing insights, author interviews, BookTok, or creative entrepreneurship, this conversation is packed with inspiration and practical advice. Topics discussed:• Transitioning from corporate work to full-time author• The audiobook-first publishing model with Audible• Romance writing and emotionally authentic storytelling• Balancing motherhood, creativity, and mental health• Dealing with reviews, rejection, and imposter syndrome• Writing inspiration from music and real-life experiences• The power of female collaboration and writing communities• Film adaptations and future writing projects Subscribe for more conversations with bestselling authors, publishing professionals, and creatives shaping the literary world. #LeeanneSlade #RomanceBooks #Audiobooks #AuthorPodcast #BookTok

    58분
  2. 5월 5일

    From Twitter Writing Contest to Bestselling Author: Andi Epimoni’s Journey, Pen Names & Meet Cute BookFest

    In this episode, we sit down with UK author Andi Epimoni—founder of Meet Cute BookFest—to unpack her journey from entering a Twitter writing competition to building a full-time career in romance publishing. Andi shares how she transitioned from literary fiction to commercial romance, the strategy behind writing under multiple pen names, and what it really takes to succeed in today’s fast-moving publishing industry. We also dive into the creation of Meet Cute BookFest, a festival designed to bring romance authors and readers together in real life. Whether you’re an aspiring writer, a romance reader, or curious about the publishing world, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and practical advice. 💡 What We Cover Andi’s path from Twitter writing contest to published authorTransitioning from literary fiction to commercial romanceWriting under multiple pen names (Lauren Forsyth & A.L. Michael)The realities of digital publishing and writing at speedFinding an agent and navigating the submissions processBalancing writing with full-time work and motherhoodThe story behind Meet Cute BookFestChallenges of running a book festival and future plansIndustry trends: AI, self-publishing & communityHandling rejection and building a sustainable writing careerIf you're enjoying these episodes and hearing from your favourite authors, please hit the subscribe button and leave a comment!

    39분
  3. 4월 28일

    From Personal Stories to Netflix: Anna Johnston on Writing, ADHD & Turning Life into Bestselling Fiction

    In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Australian author Anna Johnston to explore her remarkable journey from health promotion professional to internationally recognised novelist—with a Netflix adaptation on the horizon. Anna shares how deeply personal experiences, including her relationship with her grandfather and her later ADHD diagnosis, have shaped her voice as a storyteller. We dive into the origins of her debut novel, the realities of the publishing world, and the resilience it takes to turn rejection into momentum. From building a writing community to navigating rapid success, Anna offers an honest and insightful look into the creative process—along with a behind-the-scenes glimpse into her latest book When Lemons Give You Life and what’s coming next. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring writers, creatives, and anyone interested in the power of authentic storytelling. What we cover in this episode: Anna’s early love of storytelling and creative beginningsHer transition into aged care and how it inspired her debut novelFinding her voice through writing courses and communityThe journey to publication and landing a Netflix optionThe realities of editing, feedback, and rejectionWriting authentic, diverse, and emotionally rich charactersThe personal story behind When Lemons Give You LifeHow her ADHD diagnosis transformed her creative processUpcoming projects, including her third book and book tourWhy community and resilience are essential for writers If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow or subscribe so you never miss a conversation with inspiring authors and creatives. Leave a review on Spotify or YouTube—it really helps others discover the show. Share this episode with a friend, writer, or book lover who needs a little creative inspiration today. And if Anna’s story resonated with you, check out her books and connect with her on social media to follow her journey.

    43분

소개

Ever wonder about the person behind your favourite book? I'm diving deep with authors to uncover the real personal stories behind their work. If you love reading, writing or you're simply interested in learning more about your favourite authors, this podcast is for you!

좋아할 만한 다른 항목