Beyond The Plot Podcast

Lisa El-Behnaihy
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Books

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. 7h ago

    How Libby Tanner Turned Her Italian Dream Into a Published Rom-Com

    What does it take to turn a lifelong dream into a published novel? In this episode, author Libby Tanner shares the story behind her debut rom-com, Better Than Gelato, and the journey that took her from aspiring writer to traditionally published author. Libby opens up about balancing family life, work, and creativity while navigating the challenges of querying literary agents, handling rejection, and staying committed to her writing goals. Drawing on her background in PR and journalism, Libby discusses how communication skills helped prepare her for the realities of book promotion, public speaking, and building an author platform. She also shares how real-life experiences inspired her characters and why perseverance became one of the most important factors in her success. Whether you're an aspiring author, a book lover, or someone pursuing a creative dream, this conversation offers practical insights and inspiration for the journey. In This Episode • Libby's early passion for storytelling and writing • Why she chose a practical career path before pursuing fiction • The role of writing education and mentorship in her publishing success • How her PR and journalism background prepared her for life as an author • The process of querying literary agents and securing a publishing deal • Navigating rejection and maintaining motivation • Drawing inspiration from real people and experiences • Balancing writing with family and everyday responsibilities • Building an author career and connecting with readers • A preview of her upcoming novel, Bigger Than Versace

    45 min

  2. Jun 9

    From Rejection to Penguin Random House: Samantha Ross on Manifestation, Writing Success & Possible Springs

    How do you turn a lifelong dream into reality? In this inspiring author interview, debut novelist Samantha Ross shares her incredible journey from aspiring writer to signing a publishing deal with Penguin Random House for her novel Possible Springs. Samantha reveals how manifestation, visualization, resilience, and unwavering belief helped her navigate years of rejection and ultimately achieve her publishing goals. She also dives into the creative inspiration behind Possible Springs, including Australian landscapes, paranormal experiences, 90s music influences, and the unique blend of genres that make her debut novel stand out. Whether you're an aspiring author, creative entrepreneur, or someone pursuing a big dream, this conversation offers practical insights on overcoming self-doubt, embracing authenticity, and staying committed to your vision. In This Episode, You'll Learn: ✅ How Samantha Ross developed her passion for writing from childhood ✅ The real role manifestation and visualization played in her publishing success ✅ How rejection became part of her creative growth journey ✅ The inspiration behind her debut novel Possible Springs ✅ How paranormal experiences influenced her storytelling ✅ The process of landing a book deal with Penguin Random House ✅ Tips for aspiring authors seeking traditional publishing success ✅ Why authenticity is one of the most important tools for writers and creatives Books, Authors & Resources Mentioned All the Colours of Dark by Chris WhitakerWhere the Crawdads Sing by Delia OwensJeff Lindsay (Author of the Dexter Series)Penguin Random House

    34 min

  3. Jun 2

    Touch Grass: From Writer to Published Author | Mary Colussi on Winning the Penguin Literary Prize

    Australian-American novelist Mary Colussi joins the podcast to share the remarkable journey behind her debut novel, Touch Grass. From growing up between Australia and the United States to navigating the challenges of publishing, Mary offers an honest look at the realities of becoming a published author. In this episode, we discuss how her multicultural background shaped her storytelling, the inspiration behind Touch Grass, and how themes of digital disconnection and the search for authentic human connection became central to her work. Mary also shares her writing process, completing a manuscript in just three months, overcoming rejection, and ultimately winning the prestigious Penguin Literary Prize. Whether you're an aspiring author, a creative professional, or someone interested in the publishing industry, this conversation provides valuable insights into resilience, creativity, and building a successful writing career. In this episode; Mary Colussi's Australian-American upbringingLife in New York and returning to AustraliaThe inspiration behind Touch GrassWriting a novel in three monthsDealing with rejection and literary competitionsWinning the Penguin Literary PrizeThe importance of mentorship and writing communitiesPublishing industry insights for emerging authorsAustralian culture and its influence on storytellingBuilding resilience as a writer

    42 min

  4. May 26

    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

    58 min

  5. May 19

    The Power of Genre Shifts and Authentic Storytelling with Liz Flanagan

    Award-winning author Liz Flanagan joins the podcast to discuss her remarkable journey from writing beloved children’s fantasy books to publishing adult historical fiction. In this episode, Liz shares insights into the creative process behind her latest novel, When We Were Divided, set during the English Civil War, and opens up about genre shifts, research, publishing, editing, and finding confidence as a writer. We explore writing across genres, historical fiction research, independent bookshops, publishing in the UK, creativity during the pandemic, and the importance of writing stories that truly matter to you. If you’re an aspiring author, fan of historical fiction, fantasy books, or interested in the publishing industry, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration. Topics discussed:• Transitioning from children’s fantasy to adult historical fiction• The inspiration behind When We Were Divided• English Civil War research and surprising historical facts• Writing during the pandemic and overcoming self-doubt• The role of editors, publishing teams, and writing communities• Independent bookstores and reader connections• Genre hopping, pseudonyms, and creative freedom• Advice for aspiring writers and authors Books Mentioned:• When We Were Divided• The Wildsmith series #LizFlanagan #HistoricalFiction #AuthorPodcast #WritingCommunity #FantasyBooks

    46 min

  6. May 12

    Hannah Doyle: From Journalism to Bestseller | Writing Romance, Publishing & The Long Haul

    Bestselling romantic comedy author Hannah Doyle joins the podcast to share her inspiring journey from celebrity journalism to becoming a published novelist. Hannah opens up about breaking into the publishing world, balancing motherhood with writing, navigating editors and industry changes, and creating her latest rom-com with a sci-fi twist, The Long Haul. If you're an aspiring author, romance reader, or publishing enthusiast, this episode is packed with honest insights into writing careers, creativity, persistence, and modern publishing. In This Episode Hannah Doyle’s transition from journalism to fiction writingHow celebrity interviews shaped her storytelling skillsThe realities of traditional publishing and finding an agentBalancing writing with motherhood and family lifeBehind the scenes of writing romantic comedy novelsCreating The Long Haul and adding a time-loop elementThe role of editors, cover design, and book marketingWhy independent bookstores matter more than everAdvice for aspiring writers and debut authorsThe future of romance publishing and genre mashupsConnect with Hannah Doyle Instagram: @hannahdoyleauthorTikTok: @hannahdoyleauthor If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with fellow readers and writers.

    51 min

  7. May 5

    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!

    39 min

  8. Apr 30 ·  Bonus

    Five Authors Five Questions with Jess Kitching

    In this episode of Five Authors, Five Questions, author Jess Kitchen dives into the power of authenticity in writing, sharing how emotional honesty and personal experiences can transform storytelling. Jess discusses why writers should focus on finishing their first draft before editing, how trauma and lived experiences shape compelling fiction, and the importance of building real connections with readers. She also shares insights from fellow author Jo Dixon, along with a few unexpected research moments (including naked mole rats!). Whether you're an aspiring writer, an indie author, or simply passionate about storytelling, this episode is packed with practical writing advice and inspiration.

    4 min
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About

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!

Information

  • Creator
    Lisa El-Behnaihy
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    46
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Lisa El-Behnaihy
  • Show Website
    Beyond The Plot Podcast

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