Some conversations start about books and end up about life.

That’s exactly what happened in the sixth episode of Beyond the Page, where I sat down with Fernando Alessandri, author, psychologist, filmmaker, comedian, and creator of the hilarious spy parody Agent Bigglesby: Not Dead Yet.

A Spy Who Refuses to Slow Down

At the center of our discussion is Agent Bigglesby: Not Dead Yet, a comedy that imagines what might happen if a legendary Cold War spy found himself navigating modern life instead of international espionage.

Fernando explains that beneath the humor is a story about aging, identity, purpose, and what happens when someone struggles to let go of the life they’ve always known.

From Screenplays to Novels

Having worked in filmmaking and screenwriting, he discusses the challenges of adapting visual storytelling techniques into novels while keeping readers engaged through character, dialogue, and pacing.

We also talk about what each storytelling medium teaches you and why experimenting across different formats can make you a stronger writer.

Why Psychology Matters in Fiction

As a psychologist, Fernando brings a perspective that few authors can offer.

We discuss how understanding human behavior influences character development, why believable motivations matter more than plot twists, and how even comedic stories become more powerful when they’re grounded in authentic emotion.

Finding Humor in Everyday Life

Comedy is often more difficult to write than drama, and Fernando shares how observation plays a huge role in his creative process.

Whether it’s the absurdities of modern life, workplace culture, or the universal experience of getting older, he explains how humor often comes from recognizing truths we all share.

Writing, Publishing & Staying Creative

We also spend time discussing the realities of today’s publishing world.

Fernando offers honest insights into independent publishing, marketing your work, maintaining creativity alongside a busy career, and why persistence matters far more than overnight success.

More Than an Author Interview

Fernando’s episode blends humor, psychology, filmmaking, publishing, and storytelling into a conversation that feels less like an interview and more like sitting down with a fascinating friend over coffee.

There are plenty of laughs, but there are also thoughtful moments about creativity, purpose, and why stories continue to matter.

Listen Now

If you enjoy conversations that go beyond promoting a single book, I think you’ll really enjoy this episode.

Whether you’re a reader, a writer, a film fan, or simply someone who appreciates smart comedy and thoughtful storytelling, Fernando Alessandri brings a fresh perspective that’s both entertaining and insightful.

I hope you’ll join us for another episode of Beyond the Page, where we explore the stories behind the storytellers.

Let’s go Beyond the Page.

Guest: Fernando Alessandri https://linktr.ee/fernfactor

Featured Book: Agent Bigglesby: Not Dead Yet https://www.amazon.com/Agent-Bigglesby-Not-Dead-Yet/dp/0981619533

Find Fernando’s truama workbook and even watch the how-to videos for free using the code: PAGECHEWING26 on the “apply coupon” part of the checkout page here: https://www.change.incapables.org

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About Beyond the Page

Beyond the Page is Page Chewing’s interview series featuring conversations with authors, artists, and storytellers from every genre. Each episode explores writing, publishing, creativity, and the experiences that shape the stories we love, giving readers and writers an inside look at the craft behind great storytelling.