It's the very first episode of "Pets, Plots & Poisons" Podcast! Mystery authors Matt Cost and BJ Magnani launch their new Big Blend Radio show with the story of how they met (a New England Crime Bake conference), what they're each writing now, and a secret collaboration between their characters.

BJ shares her latest Dr. Lily Robinson thriller, "We'll Always Have Poisons," sending her poison-toting protagonist to Cape Town, Sydney, and Brussels. Matt talks through "EveryThing vs. Max Creed,: book two in his Modern-Day Chronicles of Max Creed series — and reveals he and BJ already crossed universes once, co-writing a novella with Curt Wendelboe called "Death on Out to Sea Island," where Lily Robinson meets one of Matt's own characters: https://www.fantasticfiction.com/w/curt-wendelboe/death-on-out-to-sea-island.htm 

They dig into the craft side too: Matt's plotting formula (a major turn every 12.5% of the book) versus BJ's "pantser" approach of plotting in thirds. Both trace their mystery obsession back to childhood favorites like The Black Stallion, Hardy Boys, and Trixie Belden, and talk about why pets make such rich material for crime writers — from cadaver dogs to serial killers' pets.

And BJ delivers the first-ever Poison of the Month: aconitine, a cardiac toxin from monkshood (wolfsbane) that can kill within minutes.

Next month: screenwriter-turned-mystery-author Jule Selbo joins the show.

Learn more about the hosts:

- Explore the Pets, Plots & Poisons show page (and subscribe): https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/p/pets-plots-poisons-podcast 

What happens when a renowned toxicologist becomes a bestselling thriller writer?

On this shared Big Blend Radio's "Getting to Know You" episode, we chat with BJ Magnani - Author  —Professor Emerita of Anatomic and Clinical Pathology at Tufts University School of Medicine, accomplished pathologist, toxicologist, and author of the acclaimed Dr. Lily Robinson suspense thriller series.

From poison gardens and forensic toxicology to medical mysteries and the creative process behind crafting unforgettable suspense novels, BJ shares how decades of scientific expertise shaped her fiction. We also discuss the importance of science communication, mentoring women in STEM, fascinating natural toxins, dangerous plants, food safety, and why curiosity remains one of the greatest tools for both scientists and writers.

Along the way, you'll get to know BJ beyond the lab and the page as she talks about her hobbies, bucket-list adventures, charitable work supporting women's health, and what's next—including exciting new writing projects.

Learn more about Dr. BJ Magnani and her books:

Coming August 2026: Dr. BJ Magnani and author Matt Cost will co-host Big Blend Radio's "Pets, Plots & Poisons" Podcast, airing every 3rd Thursday, celebrating mystery writing, animals, science, suspense, and all things delightfully dangerous. Watch for it on https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/ 

This shared episode of Big Blend Radio's "Getting to Know You" series spotlights mystery and historical fiction author Matt Cost, whose love of dogs, storytelling, and creative adventure shines in both his books and everyday life.

Through a fun seven-question game, Matt shares insights into his writing journey, favorite hobbies, life lessons, future goals, and the canine companions who have inspired characters throughout his mystery novels. From his popular Maine-based mystery series and thriller adventures to upcoming historical mysteries, Matt offers a behind-the-scenes look at his creative process, the power of storytelling, and why his advice to aspiring writers is simple: "Just do it."

Listeners will also get a glimpse into the imaginative concept behind Big Blend Media House, the new digital home where curiosity, creativity, and community come together.

Pssst! Matt is also preparing to launch the new Big Blend Radio podcast "Pets, Plots & Poisons" with fellow author B.J. Magnani. Premiering this August and airing every third Thursday, the show will explore mysteries, crime fiction, pets, storytelling, and the creative lives of authors.

Learn more about Matt Cost: https://www.mattcost.net/ 

Check Out Matt's Big Blend "Author Success Insider" Q&A:

Explore Big Blend Media House: https://www.bigblendmediahouse.com/