The Wordslinger Podcast

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

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🚀 Ready for a real-world, behind-the-scenes look at the evolution of a writing career? In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson shares a candid update on his current projects, his shift toward traditional publishing, and the valuable lessons learned from both indie and trad pub worlds. If you’ve ever struggled with burnout, decision fatigue, or wondered how to level up your author journey—this is the episode for you.Kevin holds nothing back as he talks about:* Why dictation isn’t for everyone (and why that’s okay)* The challenges and breakthroughs in co-authoring with J.D. Barker* The surprising benefits of letting your books “breathe” before publishing* How and why he’s embracing feedback from industry professionals* The difference between “revenue books” and “shop around” traditional projects* His evolving strategy for hybrid publishing and negotiations with publishersEpisode links::* Wordslinger Podcast (https://wordslingerpodcast.com) - Listen, connect, and send your questions* KevinTumlinson.com (https://kevintumlinson.com) – Kevin’s author site and contact info* Kevin’s Substack📝 Looking for more direct writing & publishing advice? Sign up for Kevin’s newsletter and get actionable strategies delivered straight to your inbox!Sponsors:There are no paid sponsors for this episode, but support the show by visiting WordslingerPodcast.com and KevinTumlinson.com—your go-to sources for writing tools, podcast archives, and contact links!Watch on YouTubeKey Time Codes: [00:00:00] – Introduction & topic preview[00:01:18] – Why dictation doesn’t work for Kevin[00:03:30] – Collaborating with J.D. Barker: co-authoring insights[00:04:59] – The power of letting books rest[00:08:40] – Changing titles mid-book: new lessons learned[00:11:20] – Indie vs. traditional: developing a hybrid writing strategy[00:15:04] – Marketing across indie and trad pub[00:19:05] – Negotiation, leverage, and making fair publishing deals[00:27:49] – Reflections on writing career growth and advice for fellow writers[00:28:36] – How to connect & share your own writing journey👉 Looking for inspiration and real talk about life as an author? Subscribe, comment, and join the Wordslinger community. Hit that bell to never miss an episode! 🔔#writing #publishing #authorlife #selfpublishing #tradpub #WordslingerPodcast Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

🎯 Check out our sponsor:ProWritingAid – Use code KEVIN20 for 20% off at checkout!🔗 ProWritingAid (AI-powered editing for writers – polish your words faster!)In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson sits down with acclaimed author Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer to dive deep into one of the hottest productivity hacks for writers: dictation! If you’ve ever wondered whether speaking your book can really work, what tools make it easy, or how your writing voice might change when you ditch the keyboard, this episode is for you!Sarah reveals her journey from failed first attempts at dictation to mastering a process that helped her write 14 novels on her phone. She breaks down the brain science, busts dictation myths, and shares specific actionable steps for hesitant writers—including Kevin! They discuss practical tools, health benefits, ways to train your creative mind, the top three dictation methods, and how a simple change can unleash your best ideas.Tune in for tips, laughs, and encouragement to break past your blocks and supercharge your writing routine.Show links:* FictionCourses.com/dictation – Free Scrivener + dictation mini-course and dictation quick-start guide* Sarah's Dictation Boot Camp – Live 3-day event teaching you to dictate fiction (offered April & October; enrollment info on the site)* FictionCourses Substack – Join Sarah’s 5-Minute Fictation Club* Kevin’s Substack – Updates, behind-the-scenes, and moreWatch on YouTubeKey Topics & Timestamps:[00:00:00] – Welcome & intro to dictation topic[00:05:22] – Sarah's early attempts and epic failures[00:09:30] – The breakthrough: dictating a novel scene while doing the dishes[00:14:23] – Can anyone become a “fictator”? (Brain science & training)[00:17:08] – About the Fictation course and Bootcamp[00:21:16] – Overcoming feeling self-conscious using dictation[00:27:28] – Three methods for dictating fiction[00:31:10] – Favorite tools & apps for dictation (Scrivener, Voice Memo, etc.)[00:34:24] – Homework: How to start with dictation if you’re stuck[00:35:20] – Where to find Sarah’s courses & resources[00:37:33] – Kevin’s reflections: reinventing writing routines & final thoughtsReady to break out of your comfort zone, try dictation, and boost your writing productivity? Subscribe and hit the bell for more interviews, inspiration, and writing strategies on the Wordslinger Podcast! 🔔#writing #authors #dictation #amwriting #productivityWant more resources and updates? Be sure to check out the links above and support our sponsor, ProWritingAid, for a special Wordslinger discount! Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Wordslinger Podcast, Episode 268Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Check out our sponsors: ProWritingAid - Use code KEVIN20 for 20% off at checkout!👉 ProWritingAid - Powerful editing and grammar tools for writersIn this heartfelt and personal episode, Kevin Tumlinson shares his journey as a writer and reflects on achieving a lifelong dream: speaking with his literary hero, Orson Scott Card. From the pivotal moment of discovering Ender's Game in ninth grade to the unique influence Card's writing had on his own voice, Kevin offers an honest look at how our heroes can shape our paths. He recounts how this long-awaited interview finally happened (thanks to co-host JD Barker and the Writers, Ink podcast), why he avoided meeting Card for years, and what it felt like to truly connect with a major influence in his life. Tune in for a story about inspiration, creative legacy, and what it means to pass that torch to the next generation of storytellers.Show links:* HatrackRiver.com – Orson Scott Card’s official website* Kevin’s Substack – Weekly updates and thoughts from Kevin* Writers, Ink Podcast – Podcast co-hosted by Kevin, featuring top authorsWatch on YouTubeKey Topics & Timestamps:[00:00:34] – Kevin’s update and recent Texas flooding[00:01:31] – Why the podcast was on hiatus[00:02:59] – The story of discovering Ender’s Game[00:06:29] – Realizing writing could be a career[00:09:01] – Lessons learned from unconventional career detours[00:11:02] – Brush with Dan Brown before his fame[00:12:36] – Why Kevin never tried to interview Orson Scott Card[00:14:41] – How the interview finally came together thanks to JD Barker[00:19:20] – Nerves before meeting a lifelong hero[00:21:09] – Card’s reaction to Kevin’s writing[00:24:05] – How strong mentorship (even from afar) shapes us[00:32:51] – Reflections on role models and creative legacy[00:35:01] – The mission of storytelling and inspiring others[00:36:34] – Final thoughts and thanksLooking for more interviews and deep dives into writing, creativity, and the author’s journey? Subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay tuned for future episodes! 🔔Like, share, and spread the word to support Wordslinger Podcast and the power of storytelling. Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Check out our sponsor:ProWritingAid — Use code KEVIN20 for 20% off at checkout!Visit ProWritingAid.com - Level up your writing. Trusted by indie authors, ProWritingAid offers actionable, flexible editing wherever you write.In this episode, host Kevin Tumlinson sits down with Tim Heller—a creative entrepreneur, voice actor, and audiobook producer—to dive deep into the world of audio, entrepreneurship, networking, and building a future-proof creative business. If you're an author, freelancer, or creative professional, this conversation is packed with actionable tips and candid insights on everything from handling burnout and building a team, to using systems and branding authentically.Want to know how to thrive as an indie author, explore the audiobook business, and make real connections in today’s creative landscape? This episode is your blueprint.Show links:* ProWritingAid — Assisted editing for writers (Sponsor: use code KEVIN20)* Author Anchor — VA service connecting authors with skilled virtual assistants* Kevin's Substack — Personal insights and regular updates* Tim Heller Creative: Audiobook Bonanza — Tim’s audiobook production branch* Tim Heller on LinkedIn — Connect with Tim* Redhorn Coffee and Brewery — Where the Austin creative community connectsWatch on YouTubeImportant Topics & Timestamps:[00:00:00] – Episode intro, meeting Tim Heller, and creative networking[00:06:09] – ProWritingAid sponsor message[00:11:19] – Tim’s creative background: From musical theatre to audio[00:14:36] – Building a modern creative business & future-proofing for AI[00:19:29] – Outsourcing, automation, and building the right team[00:24:21] – Creative marketing: Outreach, social media, and conferences[00:26:03] – Burnout vs. balance: Saying no and setting boundaries[00:29:15] – Restoring creative energy: Writing for fun, not just business[00:37:10] – Scaling up: Audiobook volume, quality, and industry trends[00:44:43] – Where to find Tim & “Audiobook Bonanza”[00:48:18] – Final note: The power of authentic branding and mood boardsReady for more tips on thriving as a writer or creative entrepreneur?Subscribe and hit the bell so you never miss an episode! 🔔 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Sponsored by: ProWritingAid – Level up your writing with 20% off! Use code KEVIN20 at checkout In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson welcomes back Johnny B. Truant for a deep dive into the future of publishing, the rise of the "Artisan Author," and the power of subversive art in a rapidly changing industry. They explore how indie authors can thrive by embracing creativity, community, and direct reader relationships—plus thoughts on pricing strategies, career resilience, and why now is the time to go your own way. The conversation is filled with personal stories, industry insight, and actionable advice for writers who want to shape their own path.Show Links:- ProWritingAid (prowritingaid.com) - AI-powered editing tool for writers. Use code KEVIN20 for 20% off.- Johnny B. Truant Artisan Author Book/Kickstarter - (johnnybtruant.com/artisan) - Sign up for the upcoming Artisan Author Kickstarter and learn more about Johnny’s new book.- Kevin’s Substack (kevintumlinson.substack.com) - Regular updates, essays, and behind-the-scenes insights.Watch on YouTubeKey Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:00] - Opening & introduction to Johnny B. Truant [00:03:14] - Indie vs traditional publishing: the shifting landscape [00:07:25] - Sponsor mention: ProWritingAid [00:12:25] - The rise of the “Artisan Author” & subversive art [00:18:58] - Stories that change minds: subversion in fiction & comedy [00:26:32] - Commercial success vs. artistic integrity [00:41:06] - Book pricing: value, perception, and the artisan difference [00:51:57] - Direct sales, community building & launching on Kickstarter [00:59:13] - Using AI as a tool for indie authors [01:01:32] - The importance of creative network & peer support [01:10:00] - Following your passion despite challenges [01:17:28] - The case for betting on yourself and your dreamsLooking for more inspiration and savvy publishing strategies? Subscribe and hit the notification bell to join the Wordslinger community! 🔔Got feedback or questions? Drop them in the comments, and let’s keep the conversation going. Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Full show notes and more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Check out our sponsor: ProWritingAid – Level up your writing and editing! Get 20% off using code KEVIN20 at checkout (visit: https://prowritingaid.com/?utm_source=wordslinger&utm_medium=partner-podcast&utm_campaign=YT-alwayson&utm_content=&utm_term=)In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson sits down with Dr. Marschall Runge—Dean of the University of Michigan Medical School, CEO of Michigan Medicine, and author of both fiction and nonfiction. Dive into a fascinating conversation about the future of healthcare, groundbreaking medical tech, the role of AI in medicine, and how writing thriller fiction compares to penning nonfiction. Whether you’re a writer or a health innovation enthusiast, this chat is packed with insights that could change the way you see both industries!Show Links:* Dr. Marschall Runge’s website: https://drmarschallrunge.com – Learn more about his books, including "The Great Healthcare Disruption" and "Coded to Kill."* ProWritingAid: https://prowritingaid.com/ – Powerful editing tools for writers; use code KEVIN20 for 20% off.* Kevin’s Substack: Weekly writing tips, updates, and Kevin’s blog.WATCH ON YOUTUBE:⏰ Key Topics & Timestamps:[00:01:09] – Marschall Runge’s medical background and dual writing career[00:06:55] – “The Great Healthcare Disruption”: Cost, access, and bold solutions[00:11:01] – Wearable technology, the rise of health apps, and consumer-driven medicine[00:14:36] – AI in healthcare: Shortages, efficiency, and the future doctor-patient relationship[00:18:53] – Preventive care, medical innovations, and gene therapies[00:22:10] – Comparing fiction and nonfiction writing as an expert in medicine[00:30:10] – Marschall’s next novel: The quest for longevity and the science behind it[00:34:11] – Lessons from Blue Zones and global health best practices[00:45:49] – Kevin on research, outlining, and how AI assists (but doesn’t replace) writers[01:14:23] – Closing thoughts: embracing new tools and storytelling evolutionReady for cutting-edge discussions in health and storytelling? Like, subscribe, and hit the bell to stay up-to-date on new episodes! 🔔Got story questions? Reach out at WordslingerPodcast.com—Kevin loves hearing from you! Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Our sponsor highlight: Author AnchorConnect with professional author assistants and VAs for just $7.50/hour! Boost your productivity, free up your time, and focus on writing.🔗 Author Anchor – Affordable virtual assistants for authorsReady to level up your writing career? In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson dives deep into the art (and necessity) of career pivots for authors. He opens up about his evolving approach to writing, strategic planning for new releases, and how authors can prepare for industry shifts and career transitions. Whether you're an indie writer or aiming for traditional publishing success, Kevin shares actionable insights for building a sustainable, flexible, and thriving creative career.Tune in for:Smart strategies for “same but different” booksThe real talk on switching up your writing processLessons from consulting in publishing & affiliate marketingInsights into using outlining versus pantsingTips for managing your creative evolution and author brandShow links:Author Anchor — Virtual assistant service for authors (Sponsor: connect with skilled VAs at $7.50/hr)Publisher Rocket — Discover profitable keywords and categories for your books; ask about affiliate opportunities!Kevin’s Contact Page — Send your questions for future podcast Q&AsWriters Inc Podcast — Weekly industry news and bestselling author interviews with Kevin, JD Barker & more⏰ Key Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:02] — Welcome and Austin weather update[00:04:13] — Consulting in publishing & Author Anchor overview[00:05:35] — Publisher Rocket affiliate tips[00:06:22] — Writing updates & prepping follow-up books[00:08:01] — “Same but different”: Building your career with strategic books[00:10:53] — Outlining versus pantsing and Kevin’s Scrivener method[00:18:06] — Avoiding typical story beats and rebooting your outline[00:20:40] — Publishing updates & upcoming opportunities[00:21:18] — How to submit questions for Writers Inc/WordSlinger[00:22:48] — Final thoughts and call to action🔥 Hungry for authentic writing advice and behind-the-scenes publishing intel? Hit subscribe, drop a comment, and ring that bell so you never miss an episode of Wordslinger!#writing #authorlife #publishing #WordslingerPodcast #KevinTumlinson Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯Meet the virtual assistants of Author Anchor in this live webinar. Join us Wednesday, 21 May at 10 AM Central!Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/0g2WVnGOQT2uAhCenEyuKg#/registrationIn this episode, Kevin Tumlinson sits down with author and YouTuber Keith Wheeler to dive deep into the world of low content books, building a thriving YouTube channel, and working with author assistants and virtual assistants (VA) to supercharge your author business. Keith shares insights into publishing puzzle books (like word searches and unique formats), creating children's books, and leveraging VAs for social media, newsletters, and content research. You'll get actionable advice on delegating tasks, integrating AI tools, and maximizing your writing and promotional efforts—no matter what stage you're at!Show Links:- Author Anchor (https://authoranchor.com) – Connect with vetted author assistants and virtual assistants- Book Brush (https://bookbrush.com) – Platform for author marketing tools, behind Author Anchor- K. Wheeler Books on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@kwheelerbooks) – Keith Wheeler’s YouTube channel for indie authors- Keith’s Socials (https://www.instagram.com/kwheelerbooks | https://www.tiktok.com/@kwheelerbooks) – Find Keith on Instagram & TikTok for more tipsThis episode's sponsor is ProWritingAid – Advanced editing for authors (Sponsor)Key Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:00] – Intro & Episode overview[00:03:58] – Sponsor: ProWritingAid[00:07:10] – Keith’s book catalog: Children’s, YA, puzzle books[00:10:09] – Low content vs. no content books explained[00:14:06] – Why Keith started his YouTube channel for authors[00:16:25] – Parallels between launching a book and launching a YouTube channel[00:20:14] – Newsletter, social media, & content repurposing with a VA[00:25:34] – How Keith’s VA supports research, author tasks & idea generation[00:27:03] – Integrating AI tools for efficiency in publishing[00:31:57] – Best practices for onboarding and working with a VA[00:34:52] – Social media growth & reporting with VA support[00:37:58] – Key lessons & perspective shifts after hiring a VA[00:38:58] – Where to find Keith online[00:41:40] – Writer community, conferences, & retreats[00:58:05] – More about Author Anchor & finding the right VA for you[01:00:42] – Final thoughts: Is a VA right for your author business?Looking for more actionable writing and publishing tips? Hit subscribe and tap the notification bell to never miss a Wordslinger episode! 🔔#writingtips #selfpublishing #authorbusiness #virtualassistant #YouTubeForAuthors #puzzlebooksWatch on YouTube: Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Check out our sponsor:ProWritingAid – Use code KEVIN20 for 20% off at checkout! CLICK HEREFeeling stuck or burnt out in your writing routine? In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson brings a refreshing perspective on the power of rest, reflection, and flexibility as part of the creative process. Drawing from both personal stories and professional practice, Kevin dives into how balancing discipline with downtime can actually make your writing life more fulfilling—and more productive. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just getting started, you’ll find practical tips on building healthy routines, aligning daily tasks with creative goals, and embracing the necessity of taking a beat to recharge.You’ll also hear:* Why rest and meditation are critical to creative work* The evolving routines of a full-time writer* How to use discipline and flexibility to reach your goals* Advice for integrating contemplation and journaling into your processShow Links:* WordslingerPodcast.com – Podcast home, past episodes, and more!* Kevin’s Substack – Regular updates, archives, and insights* ProWritingAid – Advanced editing tool for writers (Sponsor – Get 20% off with code KEVIN20)Key Topics & Timestamps: * [00:00:00] – Personal update & the inspiration for this episode * [00:06:37] – The challenge of balancing work, relationships, and routine* [00:08:55] – Building daily rituals: walks, journaling, and writing targets* [00:12:28] – Adapting writing discipline to real life * [00:14:03] – The value of rest: Sabbath, rhythm, and creative rejuvenation* [00:15:57] – Practical writing advice: flexibility and setting realistic goals* [00:22:20] – Editing processes, collaboration insights, and leveling up your craft * [00:25:31] – The joy of creation and embracing the beats between the notes * [00:26:13] – Connect, subscribe, and closing thoughtsLooking for more real-world strategies to supercharge your writing and enjoy the process?Subscribe, hit the notification bell, and join the Wordslinger community for future episodes! 🔔The Writer_ is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe