Best Author of Beyond the Rut Podcasts (2025)

1
“I’m Stuck in a Rut & Tired as… Girl, Don’t Say It.” 24:28

Play Pause

23h ago24:28

24:28

Ever feel successful on paper but empty in your spirit? That restless ache could be a holy signal that the season shifted before you did. We open up about the difference between purpose, calling, and assignment—and why mixing them up keeps you tired, second-guessing, and stuck in roles that no longer fit. With Scripture as our guide, we reframe “st…

1
Page to Screen Magic: Authors on Adaptations 2:32:30

3d ago2:32:30

2:32:30

Buckle up, book lovers — we’re going full Hollywood this week in an extended edition of Book Lounge! Joe kicks things off with the iconic Louis Sachar, who spills delightful behind-the-scenes tea about writing the Holes screenplay, hanging out on set, and the surreal experience of getting residual checks for his cameo. Then Danielle Valentine pops …

1
Food for Thought: Holiday Feasts, Mamrie Hart, and the Books We’re Thankful For 1:46:33

10d ago1:46:33

1:46:33

Comedian, writer, and foodie extraordinaire Mamrie Hart joins Joe in the Book Lounge to talk about her new cookbook All I Think About Is Food, her must-haves for holiday hosting, and why laughter really is the secret ingredient. Then, Carmen, Kevin Norman, and Meara pull up a chair to share the books they’re most thankful for this holiday season. A…

1
I Told My Mirror To Chill And God Agreed 18:30

15d ago18:30

18:30

Ever looked in the mirror and seen only the labels life stuck on you—failure, broken, not enough? We go right to the heart of damaged self-image and walk through how God rewrites the story with truth that restores, heals, and sends you forward with courage. Anchored in Gideon’s journey from “least” to “mighty,” we unpack how identity shifts when yo…

1
Science Fiction Double Feature: Exploring New Worlds through Books 1:33:18

17d ago1:33:18

1:33:18

It’s time to go beyond the stars! In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by Alex Segura, Daniel H. Wilson, and Ken Liu for a cosmic conversation on the ever-evolving world of science fiction. They dive into the genre’s growth, the art of writing in shared universes, and their own galaxy-sized reading recs. Then, Cece and Meara join …

1
Your Approval Can’t Pay My Bills, But God’s Love Covers Everything 16:50

22d ago16:50

16:50

Ever feel like you’re auditioning for love? We go straight at approval addiction—how it starts, how it quietly runs our lives, and how to break free by anchoring worth in God rather than in other people’s opinions. Through honest storytelling and a faith-forward lens, we trace the roots of people pleasing back to conditional love and abandonment, t…

1
Library Love Letters 2:02:20

24d ago2:02:20

2:02:20

This episode is our ode to the library—the beating heart of every book lover’s story. In segment one, Joe is joined by authors (and librarians, both current and former!) Terah Shelton Harris, Eva Jurczyk, PJ Nelson, and Jenn McKinlay to talk about how their time in libraries shaped their writing and storytelling. Then, in segment two, Joe and our g…

1
Break Free from False Labels and Embrace Your True Identity 21:11

20d ago21:11

21:11

Ever feel like your identity lives under a pile of titles, expectations, and old wounds? We go straight at the lie that your past or your job defines you and replace it with a freeing truth: your worth is already declared by God. Through personal stories, scripture, and hard-won lessons, we unpack how false labels form, why they stick, and what it …

1
Witch Please: Cozy & Witchy Reads for Fall 1:46:44

1M ago1:46:44

1:46:44

Witch please! In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, we’re leaning all the way into fall vibes with cozy and witchy reads that’ll keep you warm as the weather cools. In segment one, Joe is joined by Claribel A. Ortega, Liz Montague, HB Akumiah, and Travis Baldree for a fireside chat about all things cozy fantasy, witchy worlds, and why we can’t g…

1
Haunted Pages: A Halloween Book Lounge Special 2:26:24

1M ago2:26:24

2:26:24

It’s a monster-mash of an episode! We’re going big for spooky season with horror favorites, eerie insights, and enough book recommendations to haunt your TBR straight through Halloween. In this king-sized candy bar of a Halloween special, Joe is joined by horror icons Rachel Harrison and Ryan La Sala to chat about how the horror space has evolved, …

1
Beyond the Label: Stories of Disability & Awareness 1:42:25

2M ago1:42:25

1:42:25

In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, we’re going Beyond the Label to explore stories of disability, neurodivergence, and chronic illness — both on and off the page. In Segment 1, Joe is joined by Marie Myung-Ok Lee, who opens up about her experiences as a mother to a child with disabilities. She reflects on the fears, challenges, and moments of…

1
Creating Space & Time: Taking Aligned Action Toward Fulfillment 31:49

2M ago31:49

31:49

If you’ve ever wondered whether your dream has an expiration date, this conversation was made for you. We unpack how to move from longing to action by creating space, setting SMART goals that respect real life, and surrendering the plan to God’s timing. I share the unfiltered story of going back to school at 30 as a single mom, the routines that ke…

1
Back to School, Back to Books: Comfort Reads for Kids (and their grown-ups) 1:36:23

2M ago1:36:23

1:36:23

It’s back-to-school season, which means new routines, new books, and maybe even a little extra stress for kids (and the adults who love them). To help ease the transition, we’re diving into comfort reads for Middle Grade and YA readers. In this episode, Joe is joined by the incredible Rex Ogle, author of heartfelt and vulnerable stories for young r…

1
Finding Inspiration Again: Breaking out of Reading Ruts & Writing Slumps 1:50:36

2M ago1:50:36

1:50:36

Season 2 kicks off with a deep dive into those all-too-familiar reading ruts and writing slumps. In this episode, we explore how to find inspiration again—both on the page and in life. In Segment 1, join me with Neal Shusterman, New York Times bestselling author of over thirty award-winning books for children, teens, and adults, as he shares his st…

1
Breaking Free: Finding Confidence Beyond External Pressures 23:19

2M ago23:19

23:19

Have you ever felt crushed under the weight of others' expectations? That constant pressure to be everything to everyone while somehow maintaining your own sense of self? In this transformative episode of MAMI on a Mission Podcast, we explore the journey from external validation to authentic empowerment. Drawing from personal experience, I share my…

1
Live from ALA: Book Lounge by Libby on the Pop-Top Stage 54:05

2M ago54:05

54:05

We’re bringing you something extra special this week—a live recording from the ALA 2025 Pop-Top Stage! Join Joe in conversation with: Henry H. Neff - ⁠website⁠ Mary Roach - ⁠website⁠ Michelle Jabès-Corpora - ⁠website⁠ Olivia Worley - ⁠website⁠ Rex Ogle - ⁠website⁠ Sasha Bonét - ⁠website⁠ Terah Shelton Harris - ⁠website⁠ as they talk books, librarie…

1
Jesus Over Everything: Why I'm Not Afraid to Speak Up 15:17

2M ago15:17

15:17

What does it truly mean to stand boldly for your faith in a world that often misunderstands and rejects it? This raw, unfiltered episode delves into the tension between speaking truth and showing compassion as believers in today's polarized society. Through vulnerable personal testimony, I share my journey from deep brokenness to bold purpose—inclu…

1
“Discovering the Real You: Healing, Identity, and God’s Plan” 24:10

2M ago24:10

24:10

Transformation begins with self-discovery, peeling back layers of hurt and false identities to reveal who we truly are. Season 8 kicks off by exploring the foundation of the Empower Her program: healing from past wounds, understanding our true identity, and trusting God's purpose. • Healing requires releasing the hurts we've carried—whether rejecti…

1
Reading Andy Warhol with Daniel Henning 1:03:25

3M ago1:03:25

1:03:25

In this special bonus episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe sits down with Daniel Henning to dive deep into the writings and ideas of Andy Warhol. From The Philosophy of Andy Warhol to Popism: The Warhol Sixties to a: a novel, this conversation explores the iconic artist’s impact on art, culture, and how we see the world today. Whether you’re a long…

1
MAMI Let’s Talk: Menopause, Faith & Finding Strength 26:34

3M ago26:34

26:34

Mariana shares her raw, personal journey through perimenopause, detailing the physical and emotional changes affecting her body, energy levels, and relationships. She offers biblical perspectives and practical wisdom for women navigating this challenging transition while maintaining their identity and purpose. • Gained 53 pounds over the past decad…

1
Hispanic Heritage Month: A Conversation on Writing, Identity, and Celebration 2:37:11

3M ago2:37:11

2:37:11

As Season 1 of Book Lounge by Libby comes to a close, we’re getting you ready to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with thoughtful conversations featuring Ann Dávila Cardinal, Isabel Cañas, Cleyvis Natera, Isabel Ibañez, and Tamara Yajía. 🌎 Together, they explore how heritage and identity shape their writing and the stories they share with the worl…

1
Romantasy Rising: The Explosion of a Genre and What’s Next 1:53:32

3M ago1:53:32

1:53:32

Romantasy is everywhere right now — and we’re diving deep into the magic, monsters, and swoon-worthy romance fueling its meteoric rise. In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe sits down with three of the biggest names in the genre — Jennifer L. Armentrout, Olivia Rose Darling, and Katee Robert — to talk about how romantasy took over bookshelve…

1
Narratives of Legacy: Indigenous Writers on History, Identity, and Survival 1:51:35

4M ago1:51:35

1:51:35

In this special episode of Book Lounge by Libby, we’re joined by celebrated Indigenous authors Angeline Boulley (Firekeeper’s Daughter, Warrior Girl Unearthed) and Carole Lindstrom (We Are Water Protectors, Autumn Peltier, Water Warrior) for a powerful conversation on legacy, language, and literature. Together, we discuss what it means to write fro…

1
“From Rest to Revival: Celebrating 3 Years of MAMI on a Mission!” 23:39

4M ago23:39

23:39

Feeling stuck in a cycle of pouring from an empty cup? Ready to reclaim your purpose and passion? This episode marks a powerful return after a restorative July break, where I share the profound shifts happening in both my personal journey and professional mission. Fresh from completing my advanced life coach certification, I'm bringing enhanced too…

1
The Battle Over Books: Publishers, Libraries & Banned Authors Speak Out 2:16:25

4M ago2:16:25

2:16:25

Book bans are rising at an alarming rate—but librarians, authors, and publishers are fighting back. In this powerful episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by librarian and intellectual freedom advocate Amanda Jones, bestselling author Kalynn Bayron (This Poison Heart), veteran librarian and censorship expert Pat R. Scales, and Skip Dye, SV…

1
What happens when a life of crime meets divine intervention? 1:16:52

4M ago1:16:52

1:16:52

Roxanne Lara's story will leave you breathless. From smuggling people across borders at age 13 to becoming addicted to "daybreak pills" that made her violent and unpredictable, Roxanne lived a life straight out of a crime thriller. Her candid testimony reveals how deeply entrenched she became in a world of drugs, violence, and criminal enterprises.…

1
Panels with Purpose: Creators on the Power of Graphic Novels 1:47:16

4M ago1:47:16

1:47:16

In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, we explore the powerful world of graphic novels. In our first segment, Joe is joined by a brilliant panel of creators—mother-daughter duo Hallie Bateman & Suzy Hopkins, Maia Kobabe, and Mattie Lubchansky—to discuss how graphic novels have evolved, the importance of accessibility, the unique creative process …

1
When God Opens Doors: Finding Hope After Abuse 58:46

4M ago58:46

58:46

What happens when rock bottom has a trap door? When Denise Rodriguez met host Mariana at a women's conference, neither could have imagined how powerfully their parallel journeys would resonate with listeners. This raw, unfiltered conversation takes you inside the reality of domestic violence, offering both gut-wrenching moments and breathtaking tes…

1
Sun, Sand & Stories: Authors on Crafting the Perfect Summer Read 1:49:02

4M ago1:49:02

1:49:02

What makes a book the perfect beach read? In this sunny episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by authors Clémence Michallon, Jonathan Parks-Ramage, Megan Miranda, and Sara Hamdan for a lively conversation about the art of crafting a summer page-turner. From thrillers to romances and everything in between, they unpack what “beach read” real…

1
Beyond the Scars: Transforming Pain into Purpose 59:28

4M ago59:28

59:28

What happens when childhood trauma plants seeds of rejection and abandonment in your life? How do you break free from cycles that have shaped your identity and relationships for decades? In this deeply moving conversation, Pastor LaToya Chrisman takes us through her remarkable journey from foster care to freedom. Placed in the system at just four y…

1
Summer Reading Magic: Authors on Writing for Young Readers 2:47:32

5M ago2:47:32

2:47:32

What makes a summer read unforgettable for kids and teens? In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe is joined by authors Jamie Sumner, Kelsey Impicciche, and Julie Soto for a sunny conversation all about Summer Reading Magic. They explore what defines a great summer book across different age groups, how they tailor their writing to young reader…

1
When Prayers Replace Panic: A Mother's Journey 46:05

5M ago46:05

46:05

What does it take to raise boys who respect women, contribute equally at home, and make wise choices? The answer may surprise you. In this heart-stirring conversation, Mariana welcomes Iranda Chavez, mother of three grown sons, who bravely shares her journey through the challenges of boy-mom life. Kicking off the "She's Bold" series following Maria…

Author Of Beyond The Rut Podcasts

1
Beyond the Rut: Create a Life Worth Living in Your Faith, Family, Career

Jerry Dugan - The Work-Life Balance Leader, Author of Beyond the Rut, Redefining Success

1
Book Lounge by Libby

Book Lounge by Libby

1
MAMI on a Mission Podcast: Faith, Healing & Purpose

Mariana Monterrubio - Best Selling Author, Biblical Life Coach and Motivational Speaker

1
“I’m Stuck in a Rut & Tired as… Girl, Don’t Say It.” 24:28

1
Page to Screen Magic: Authors on Adaptations 2:32:30

1
Food for Thought: Holiday Feasts, Mamrie Hart, and the Books We’re Thankful For 1:46:33

1
I Told My Mirror To Chill And God Agreed 18:30

1
Science Fiction Double Feature: Exploring New Worlds through Books 1:33:18

1
Your Approval Can’t Pay My Bills, But God’s Love Covers Everything 16:50

1
Library Love Letters 2:02:20

1
Break Free from False Labels and Embrace Your True Identity 21:11

1
Witch Please: Cozy & Witchy Reads for Fall 1:46:44

1
Haunted Pages: A Halloween Book Lounge Special 2:26:24

1
Beyond the Label: Stories of Disability & Awareness 1:42:25

1
Creating Space & Time: Taking Aligned Action Toward Fulfillment 31:49

1
Back to School, Back to Books: Comfort Reads for Kids (and their grown-ups) 1:36:23

1
Finding Inspiration Again: Breaking out of Reading Ruts & Writing Slumps 1:50:36

1
Breaking Free: Finding Confidence Beyond External Pressures 23:19

1
Live from ALA: Book Lounge by Libby on the Pop-Top Stage 54:05

1
Jesus Over Everything: Why I'm Not Afraid to Speak Up 15:17

1
“Discovering the Real You: Healing, Identity, and God’s Plan” 24:10

1
Reading Andy Warhol with Daniel Henning 1:03:25

1
MAMI Let’s Talk: Menopause, Faith & Finding Strength 26:34

1
Hispanic Heritage Month: A Conversation on Writing, Identity, and Celebration 2:37:11

1
Romantasy Rising: The Explosion of a Genre and What’s Next 1:53:32

1
Narratives of Legacy: Indigenous Writers on History, Identity, and Survival 1:51:35

1
“From Rest to Revival: Celebrating 3 Years of MAMI on a Mission!” 23:39

1
The Battle Over Books: Publishers, Libraries & Banned Authors Speak Out 2:16:25

1
What happens when a life of crime meets divine intervention? 1:16:52

1
Panels with Purpose: Creators on the Power of Graphic Novels 1:47:16

1
When God Opens Doors: Finding Hope After Abuse 58:46

1
Sun, Sand & Stories: Authors on Crafting the Perfect Summer Read 1:49:02

1
Beyond the Scars: Transforming Pain into Purpose 59:28

1
Summer Reading Magic: Authors on Writing for Young Readers 2:47:32

1
When Prayers Replace Panic: A Mother's Journey 46:05