The Wordslinger Podcast

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Check out our sponsor: Author AnchorYou just want to write. Author Anchor matches you with an author assistant for just $7.50 per hour, so you can hand off marketing, admin, editing, advertising, social media, and more. Book a free, zero-obligation discovery call now at https://authoranchor.com.In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson dives deep into the world of scams targeting authors, artists, and creatives. From predatory legal firms to shady “publishers” with AI-generated websites and offers too good to be true, Kevin shares personal stories, red flags to watch for, and practical strategies to keep your money—and your work—safe. Whether you’re a new writer hoping to be discovered or a seasoned pro, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the publishing and creative landscape as scams become more sophisticated and pervasive.Show links:* Author Anchor (authoranchor.com) — Virtual assistant service for authors* Draft2Digital (draft2digital.com) — Ebook distribution platform* PublishDrive (publishdrive.com) — Ebook publishing & distribution* Reedsy (reedsy.com) — Find trusted editors, designers, and book professionals* 99designs (99designs.com) — Professional cover design and more* LegalShield (legalshield.com) — Affordable legal services for contracts/review* LegalZoom (legalzoom.com) — Legal support and contract review online* Writer’s Digest (writersdigest.com) — Publishing news, Writer’s Market guides and agent info* Wordslinger Podcast (wordslingerpodcast.com) — More episodes, contact, and resourcesWatch on YouTubeImportant Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:05] – Welcome & episode overview[00:00:25] – Why scams are a growing threat[00:01:14] – Fake publishers & scam tactics[00:01:59] – Kevin’s personal experience falling for a book scam[00:03:33] – IRS debt scam: emotional manipulation explained[00:06:04] – How scammers exploit dreams and fears[00:08:56] – AI-powered scams: cloned voices, fake Zoom calls, and impersonations[00:10:23] – How legitimate publishing works vs. scam warning signs[00:13:16] – Everyday scam attempts targeting authors[00:16:03] – Fake websites, hijacked business names, and AI-generated “staff”[00:18:46] – Myth of “being discovered”—real path to success[00:19:59] – Why contracts and legal reviews matter[00:21:09] – Solar panel scam and red flags to look for[00:22:19] – Actionable advice: Avoid scams, invest in trusted guides & services[00:23:59] – Resource recommendations: where your money should go[00:24:44] – Protecting your creative work and passion from predators[00:25:27] – How to reach out to Kevin for scam advice[00:26:15] – Legitimate service recommendations (Reedsy, 99designs, etc.)[00:27:48] – Closing thoughts, support, and a call to subscribeLooking for more creative protection and publishing wisdom? Like, share, and subscribe here on YouTube, and hit the notification bell to stay informed on future episodes! 🔔 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Check out our sponsor: Author AnchorYou just want to write. Author Anchor matches you with an author assistant for just $7.50 per hour, so you can hand off marketing, admin tasks, promotion, editing, social media, and more. Book a free, zero-obligation discovery call now at https://authoranchor.com.In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson sits down with accountant and author advocate Seth Norris to demystify the “business” side of the author journey. They dive into common money mistakes, why most authors avoid talking taxes, and how to turn scary finances into manageable habits. Whether you’re new to direct sales, seeking smarter tax strategies, or need systems to manage your indie career, this episode is packed with practical advice—plus an inside look at Author Unlimited and resources for building a sustainable author business!Show links:* Author CPA – Main hub for Seth’s services, newsletter signup, and YouTube channel* Author Unlimited Community – Community & resources for authors on finances & systems* Profit First (Book) – The money-management method discussed in this episode* Seth’s Substack – Mindset, creative business tips, and the “week in Seth’s head”* School (Community Platform) – Platform used by Author Unlimited* Author Anchor – Author task and marketing assistant service (sponsor link)Watch on YouTubeI Asked a CPA Why Authors Struggle With Money—His Answer Shocked MeImportant Topics & Timestamps:[00:01:05] – Seth’s journey into author conferences[00:02:05] – Turning accounting skills into author niche (Author CPA)[00:03:09] – What does an “Author CPA” actually do?[00:04:53] – Trends & money mistakes indie authors make[00:07:00] – Hidden costs of direct sales & royalty comparisons[00:09:44] – Helping authors set up bookkeeping and automations[00:11:38] – The surprising power of authentic, low-fuss YouTube videos[00:15:42] – What “Profit First” means for authors[00:22:16] – Simple formula for setting aside tax money[00:24:46] – Building Author Unlimited (community for author business systems & finances)[00:27:31] – Getting the most out of community, templates, and automation[00:30:11] – Seth’s Substack: creativity, mindset, and life as an author CPALooking for more no-nonsense business tips for your author career? Subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay up on the latest strategies! 🔔 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Check out our sponsor: Author AnchorYou just want to write. Author Anchor matches you with a personal assistant for just $7.50 per hour, so you can delegate marketing, admin tasks, advertising, editing, social media, and more. Book a free, zero-obligation discovery call now at https://authoranchor.com.In this special solo episode, Kevin Tumlinson broadcasts from Las Vegas during the Author Nation 2025 conference! With a raspy conference voice and coffee in hand, Kevin shares insights on the true value of attending author conferences—from networking and forming meaningful industry connections, to serving your community and embracing discomfort for personal growth. He offers actionable advice for writers hoping to make the most out of conference experiences, discusses the art of being a connector, and reflects on how kindness can generate unexpected opportunities.Show links:* Author Nation (authornation.live) – Event and ticket info for conferences* Author Anchor (authoranchor.com) – VA service connecting authors with skilled virtual assistants* Dave Cullen YouTube (youtube.com/@computingforever) – Computing Forever channel* Wordslinger Podcast YouTube (youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast) – Subscribe for exclusive video episodes* Wordslinger Podcast Archive (wordslingerpodcast.com) – Listen to all past episodesSUBSCRIBE AND WATCH ON YOUTUBEWhy Every Writer Needs to Attend Conferences (Even When It Feels Useless)Important Topics & Timestamps:[00:00:00] – Conference intro & Vegas updates[00:01:16] – Details on Author Nation events and book signing[00:03:33] – The benefits of conference attendance[00:05:04] – Networking and refining your professional circle[00:09:26] – The value of connecting others[00:13:45] – Embracing discomfort and change of scenery[00:15:02] – Doing something kind for a friend[00:22:09] – Immersing yourself while traveling[00:23:43] – Community and collaboration at conferences[00:26:10] – Importance of serving the author community[00:27:53] – Sponsor plug: Author Anchor[00:30:24] – YouTube subscriber call-to-action & show supportLooking for more inspiration and insight for your writing career? Subscribe and hit the notification bell on YouTube—help us reach 1,000 subscribers and keep Wordslinger going strong! 🔔 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Check out our sponsor: Author AnchorYou just want to write. Author Anchor matches you with an author assistant for just $7.50 per hour, taking care of marketing, admin, ads, editing, social media, and more! Book your free, no-obligation discovery call now at https://authoranchor.com.In this special episode, Kevin Tumlinson sits down with fellow podcaster, author, and creative entrepreneur Donn King to unpack how to get all your creative work done—even when life is overflowing. They share personal stories about balancing writing, podcasting, family responsibilities, and unexpected challenges, revealing how true creativity thrives not despite the chaos, but often because of it. If you’re struggling with time management, work-life balance, or redefining your “career,” you won’t want to miss this thoughtful, inspiring conversation.Show links:* Donn King’s Site (donnking.com) – Learn more about Donn’s work and podcasting* Creating While Caring: https://DonnKing.com/CreatingWhileCaring* All Donn’s books: https://DonnKing.com/Books* Publishing services: https://HiddenMentor.com/* Wordslinger Podcast Substack (wordslingerpodcast.com) – Follow Kevin for updates & a free ebook* Kevin’s Indie Spotlight at Writer’s Digest (https://www.writersdigest.com/j-kevin-tumlinson-effective-writing-avoiding-burnout) – Featured interview* Author Anchor (authoranchor.com) – Connect with a virtual assistant for authors* Wordslinger Podcast YouTube Channel (youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast) – Subscribe for more podcast episodes* Author Nation Event (authornation.live) – Where Kevin will be appearing in-personWatch on YouTubeImportant Topics & Timestamps:[00:00:00] – Welcome, intro, and Donn King’s background[00:01:09] – Handling creative work with a full plate[00:04:16] – The myth of free time and the “goldfish principle”[00:07:05] – Redefining ‘career’ for writers and creatives[00:08:55] – Seasons of opportunity and embracing life’s transitions[00:09:27] – Kevin’s events: Author Nation & Reader Nation[00:11:03] – Kevin featured in Writer’s Digest Indie Spotlight[00:12:31] – How to connect: Substack, YouTube, podcast apps[00:13:10] – Closing thoughts and what’s next for Wordslinger— Looking for more inspiration and practical tips on writing, publishing, and thriving as a creative? Subscribe and hit the notification bell to never miss an episode! 🔔 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Check out our sponsor: Author AnchorYou just want to write. Author Anchor matches you with an author assistant for just $7.50 per hour, so you can hand off marketing, admin tasks, advertising, editing, social media, and more. Book a free, zero-obligation discovery call now at https://authoranchor.com.In this episode, host Kevin Tumlinson goes deep on the theme of being real and authentic—both in writing and life. Kevin shares his personal journey of downsizing, embracing minimalism, and letting go of unnecessary “stuff.” He talks about optimizing work with streamlined tech, the value of authentic connections, and what Gen Z is seeking in media. Plus, there’s a frank discussion of how authentic experiences and meaningful relationships can be cultivated in today’s world—and why Kevin believes it’s time to focus on what truly edifies us.Show links:* Author Anchor – VA service connecting authors with skilled virtual assistants* Kevin’s Substack – Regular updates and insights, including Wordslinger Podcast content* Wordslinger Podcast – Home base for the show, hosted on SubstackWatch on YouTube🔑 Important Topics & Timestamps:[00:00:00] – Introduction & authenticity[00:00:30] – Downsizing & minimalism journey[00:04:08] – Pricing possessions, sunk cost fallacy[00:06:29] – Tech talk: Using iPad for everything[00:11:53] – What Gen Z wants: Real, authentic media[00:13:10] – The experience of podcasting & listener connection[00:17:54] – Discoverability & authentic marketing[00:20:19] – Complaining vs. changing & positive reviews[00:24:23] – “Did Not Finish”: Navigating negative feedback[00:25:12] – Experiences vs. stuff: Minimalism & edification[00:31:19] – Experiences over ownership[00:33:07] – Upcoming interviews & eventsLooking for more writing and publishing insights?Subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes! 🔔―――Want to connect in person? Catch Kevin at Author Nation and Reader Nation in Las Vegas, Nov. 3–8!#Authenticity #Minimalism #WritingLife #WordslingerPodcast #BookMarketing #AuthorCommunity Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Check out our sponsor: ProWritingAidSupercharge your writing with ProWritingAid—your all-in-one writing coach, style editor, and grammar checker. Plus, they’re the driving force behind the brand new “Novel November” event, helping you reach your writing goals faster! Learn more and kickstart your writing at https://bit.ly/novnov25.In this episode, host Kevin Tumlinson dives deep into creative workflow and productivity for writers and creatives—covering everything from embracing minimalism to refining your tech setup and managing side projects. Kevin shares his process for balancing business planning, writing habits, and staying productive even when life gets busy. Whether you’re decluttering your studio or seeking the ultimate mobile writing setup, there’s inspiration and practical tips waiting for you here!Show links:* Novel November registration (bit.ly/novnov25) – Join the new month-long novel writing event replacing NaNoWriMo; access sessions with bestselling authors, prizes, and a supportive community!* Kevin’s Substack (kevintumlinson.substack.com) – Get Kevin’s thoughts, podcast updates, and more in your inbox.* Wordslinger YouTube (youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast) – Watch the show and subscribe for video content.* Kevin’s YouTube Channel (youtube.com/kevintumlinson) – Follow Kevin’s personal channel for more insights and behind-the-scenes.Watch on YouTube⏰ Key Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:22] – Announcing Novel November & ProWritingAid sponsorship[00:02:14] – Minimalism, decluttering, and clothing downsizing[00:05:13] – Upgrading tech, iPad vs. laptop workflow for writers[00:14:18] – Business planning, “Throughline” & Novelton Bookshop concepts[00:16:05] – Balancing business projects with consistent creative writing[00:20:48] – Outlining, quick notes system, and portable writing productivity[00:24:49] – Financial minimalism: budgeting, investing, and asset thinking[00:34:10] – Mentorship, choosing your influences & the value of podcasts[00:38:27] – Where Wordslinger is heading: minimalism, performance, tech topicsReady to streamline your workflow and sharpen your creativity? Subscribe and hit the bell for fresh episodes every week. Have questions or ideas? Drop them in the comments or email Kevin—your input could shape future shows! 🔔 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Check out our sponsor: Author AnchorYou just want to write. Author Anchor matches you with an author assistant for just $7.50 per hour, so you can hand off marketing and promotion, admin tasks, advertising, editing, social media, and more. Book a free, zero-obligation discovery call now at https://authoranchor.com.In this episode, host Kevin Tumlinson dives deep into the power of perspective, sharing his personal journey through downsizing, letting go of the old to make way for the new, and how shifting routines can spark creative breakthroughs. Kevin offers candid reflections on the emotional challenges of parting with cherished possessions—including his legendary hand-built writing desk—and how embracing change leads to more freedom and growth, both as a writer and in daily life.Tune in for actionable insights on:* Streamlining your workspace for creativity and flexibility* Overcoming the discomfort of letting go and welcoming new opportunities* The psychology of attachment and forming healthier habits around possessions* Creative inspirations behind Kevin’s current writing projects* How changing your environment can reshape your mindset and writing processShow links:* Author Anchor (https://authoranchor.com) – Virtual assistant service for authors. Book your free discovery call now.* Kevin’s Facebook Marketplace – Browse items mentioned for sale (search Kevin Tumlinson on Facebook Marketplace).* WordslingerPodcast.com – More episodes and resources.Watch on YouTube:Important Topics & Timestamps:[00:00:29] - Kevin reveals changes in his workspace and the decision to downsize[00:03:43] - Journaling, morning routines, and discovering new ergonomic setups[00:06:51] - Travel plans, van life, and shifting from full-time road living[00:08:24] - Letting go of tech and rethinking what’s essential[00:09:13] - Emotional attachment and the value of letting go[00:14:19] - Garage sale stories & practical tips for downsizing[00:21:10] - Life lessons on ego, identity, and the freedom of decluttering[00:23:57] - The challenge of letting go of beloved books[00:24:42] - Writing update: Library of Unwritten Books & speculative fiction[00:27:56] - Listener shout-outs and the value of community encouragementLooking for more writing and publishing insights? Subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes! 🔔 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Sponsor Shoutout:AuthorAnchor - Get an author assistant to help you take your writing career to the next level, for only $7.50 per hour! Talk to one of our team at AuthorAnchor.com. In this heartfelt solo episode, host Kevin Tumlinson shares a behind-the-scenes look at embracing change through downsizing. After asking listeners if they still care about the show, Kevin opens up about the powerful responses he received and dives deep into the emotional (and practical) journey of letting go of possessions, re-evaluating priorities, and gearing up for a more minimalist, nomadic lifestyle. Whether you’re pondering a move, curious about van life, or just looking for inspiration to declutter your life (physically and mentally), Kevin’s insights and stories are sure to resonate.Tune in for real talk about change, legacy, and the value of experience over stuff!Show Links:* Kevin’s YouTube Channel (https://youtube.com/KevinTumlinson) – Personal insights, vlogs, and sunrise walks* Wordslinger Podcast YouTube (https://youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast) – Every episode, video formatWatch on YouTubeKey Topics & Timestamps:[00:00:01] - Kevin’s gratitude & audience feedback[00:02:44] - Where to follow the Wordslinger Podcast[00:03:09] - Downsizing: the decision, the process, and letting go[00:04:13] - The emotional side of leaving a dream home[00:06:20] - Practical steps: sorting, selling, & donating possessions[00:13:50] - Letting go of nostalgic tech, vintage items, and clutter[00:18:22] - Embracing nomadic life & maximizing experiences[00:22:02] - Advice for listeners: valuing experience over possessions[00:27:25] - Facing discomfort and growing through change[00:32:39] - Upcoming changes, digital declutter & how to connect[00:34:56] - Spiritual reflections & legacyReady to rethink your relationship with “stuff” and invest more in memorable experiences? Subscribe, like, share, and follow to join Kevin on this downsizing adventure!🔔 Don’t miss future episodes—subscribe now and be part of the Wordslinger community! Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Check out our sponsor: Author Anchor – Need author assistants? Connect with vetted VAs who specialize in helping writers grow their businesses! (visit: https://authoranchor.com)This week, Kevin Tumlinson returns solo from the Novelists Inc. (NINC) conference with fresh insights and new creative momentum. Learn how a chance experiment with dictation and flash fiction sparked viral engagement, why Kevin’s refocusing his writing career on speculative fiction, and get an honest update about life, business, and the future of the podcast. If you love behind-the-scenes glimpses at the writing process, bold career shifts, and practical author advice, this is your episode!Links mentioned:* Kevin’s YouTube Channel (https://youtube.com/@KevinTumlinson) – Author updates, writing talk, and more* Kevin’s Substack:* Rover 8 on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CXYZ1234) – Newly released sci-fi novella* Author Anchor (https://authoranchor.com) – Premium VA placement for authorsWatch on YouTubeKey Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:00] – Welcome back & NINC conference highlights[00:02:25] – Launching new video content on YouTube[00:03:18] – Big ideas from NINC: AI, author visibility & marketing[00:04:40] – Struggling with a novel and discovering dictation[00:07:31] – Experimenting with flash fiction & viral Substack post[00:10:48] – Using flash fiction to test story concepts[00:11:34] – Rediscovering and republishing past work[00:14:17] – Embracing speculative fiction and creative freedom[00:17:27] – Life update: Downsizing, van life & finances[00:22:24] – Reflecting on the future of the Wordslinger Podcast[00:24:45] – How to connect, share feedback, and supportHungry for real-life writing talk and creative inspiration?👍 Like, subscribe, and share to support the show and help it grow!Drop your thoughts in the comments, or reach out directly at kevintumlinson.com or Kevin’s Substack above.Stay tuned for more writing journeys, creative reinventions, and author life stories. Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎉 12th Anniversary Episode! 🎉Join Kevin Tumlinson—aka the Wordslinger—for a special milestone as he reflects on 12 years of the Wordslinger Podcast (with just a few breaks along the way!). In this heartfelt solo episode, Kevin shares the lessons, behind-the-scenes stories, and surprising connections formed through years of podcasting. You'll hear about personal growth, the evolution of this show, how podcasting shaped his writing and career, and the power of curiosity and consistency. Whether you’re a longtime listener or new to the show, this episode is packed with insight and genuine gratitude—plus tips for leveraging podcasting and informational interviews in your own journey.Show Links:* WordslingerPodcast.com – Central hub for all episodes, show notes, and contact info* Kevin’s Substack – Regular updates, essays, and connecting with the Word Slinger community* Writers, Ink Podcast - https://writersinkpodcast.com – Kevin’s weekly interview podcast for authors💡 Interested in sponsoring an episode or collaborating? Reach out via WordslingerPodcast.com!Watch on YouTubeImportant Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:02] – 12th anniversary introduction & origin of the podcast[00:02:57] – Recording adventures: sound booths, travels, and keeping the show going[00:05:16] – Wordslinger’s open format and moving beyond writing-only topics[00:07:10] – On interviewing big names & making lasting connections[00:07:58] – Consistency and discipline: podcasting’s biggest lessons for writers[00:11:00] – Impact of podcasting on Kevin’s career and personal growth[00:14:31] – How podcasting opens doors—and how you can use similar strategies[00:16:29] – Informational interviews: Secret weapon for writers and job seekers[00:22:26] – The power of reciprocity, authenticity, and offering value[00:24:54] – Podcasting as a vocation, lessons for creatives, and show’s future[00:25:50] – Closing thoughts & invitation to connect with KevinLooking for more writing inspiration and honest conversation about publishing and creativity? Subscribe, leave a comment, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode! 🔔Thanks for being a crucial part of 12 years of Wordslinger. Here’s to many more! Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe