
The Wordslinger Podcast
From award-winning and bestselling author Kevin Tumlinson, this weekly podcast explores the stories that shape us into who we are, and shape the world into what it can become. It's all about the story here. kevintumlinson.substack.com
Latest episodes

Mar 13, 2025 • 38min
Just Write - Transform Your Writing Routine with VAs and Author Anchor
Wordslinger Podcast, Episode 257Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Check out our sponsor: ProWritingAid - Use code KEVIN20 for 20% off at checkoutIn this episode of the WordSlinger Podcast, Kevin Tumlinson is flying solo and diving deep into the world of writing and author services. He reveals how authors can focus more on their writing and leave the tedious tasks to skilled virtual assistants through Author Anchor. Kevin discusses the benefits of combining human intelligence with AI for an optimal writing and business experience, shares his personal journey towards author autonomy, and provides tips on effectively working with virtual assistants.Show links:* Author Anchor (authoranchor.com) - VA service connecting authors with skilled virtual assistants* ProWritingAid (prowritingaid.com) - Assistive editing tool for writers* Kevin's Substack (kevintumlinson.substack.com) - Regular updates and insightsImportant Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:00] - Introduction to solo Slinger episode [00:01:21] - Details on the Writer MBA conference [00:07:06] - The need for author autonomy [08:07] - The efficiency of AI combined with human intelligence [22:15] - Author Anchor overview and pricing [28:50] - Benefits of working with a VA [35:34] - Kevin's thoughts on the author industry changes [36:42] - Call for next big franchise ideasLooking for more writing and publishing insights? Subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes! 🔔WATCH ON YOUTUBE Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

8 snips
Mar 6, 2025 • 1h 13min
From Rejection to Success: Joseph Finder's Path as a Thriller Writer
Joseph Finder, a bestselling thriller writer known for "The Oligarch's Daughter," discusses his journey from aspiring author to bestseller. He shares insights on the persistence required in writing and adapting to global events. Listeners will discover the intricate balance between planning and spontaneity in storytelling, as well as the impact of modern themes like politics on narrative. Finder also reflects on the role of AI in content creation and the importance of embracing innovation in the ever-evolving publishing landscape.

8 snips
Feb 27, 2025 • 1h 6min
Mastering Your Craft: Learning from Eric Cogorno's Golf and Personal Development Journey
Eric Cogorno, a YouTube golf sensation and personal development enthusiast, joins to share his insights on merging golf and self-improvement. He reveals how lessons from the golf course foster patience and resilience in life. The discussion touches on his transition from one-on-one coaching to impactful content creation on social media. With an intriguing look at his upcoming book, Cogorno emphasizes the joy of writing and navigating personal challenges, blending nostalgia with practical advice for overcoming everyday frustrations.

6 snips
Feb 20, 2025 • 1h 16min
Simplifying Author Marketing: Evan Gow on the Power of StoryOrigin
Evan Gow, the creator of StoryOrigin, shares his expertise in simplifying author marketing and enhancing business processes. He dives into the platform's innovative features like website building and direct sales capabilities. The discussion highlights the importance of balancing writing with business demands while preserving creativity. Evan emphasizes the value of local engagement and building a supportive writing community. He also offers insights into leveraging virtual assistants for increased productivity and personal growth.

Feb 13, 2025 • 1h 12min
Steve Berry Discusses His Writer’s Journey and New Book "The Medici Return"
Join Kevin Tumlinson for an enlightening conversation with bestselling author Steve Berry about his new book "The Medici Return" and his 35-year journey in publishing. Steve shares insights about his path to success, including overcoming 85 rejections, how Dan Brown's "The Da Vinci Code" changed the thriller genre, and his approach to crafting tighter, more compelling novels.In the Note at the End, Kevin provides updates on several exciting projects, including his role as Chief Branding Officer for AuthorAnchor.com, consulting work with Plottr's new StorySnap tool, and upcoming speaking engagements.Links mentioned:* Buy Steve Berry’s “The Medici Return” - https://amzn.to/3EPzOFe * Steve Berry’s website: https://steveberry.org* Find an author VA - AuthorAnchor.com * Try out Storysnap - Plottr.com * Get your tickets for the Author Nation Conference, 2024 - AuthorNation.live * KevinTumlinson.Substack.com * KevinTumlinson.com/contact Key Topics: 0:00 - Introduction 2:19 - ProWritingAid sponsor message 4:10 - Interview with Steve Berry begins 13:56 - Steve's writing journey and rejections 21:32 - Impact of Dan Brown on the thriller genre 34:21 - Writing process and craft discussion 36:35 - Note at the End begins - Kevin's updates 54:30 - AuthorAnchor VA service details 1:05:44 - ThruLine Consulting overview 1:10:10 - Closing thoughts and where to find Kevin online#writing #publishing #authors #thriller #SteveBerry Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Feb 6, 2025 • 44min
Healing Through Words: Sally McQuillen's Memoir Journey
In this episode, I sit down with Sally McQuillen, a psychotherapist and author of the upcoming memoir "Reaching for Beautiful: A Memoir of Loving and Losing a Wild Child." Sally shares her powerful journey of processing grief through writing after losing her son Christopher, and how journaling on her phone eventually evolved into a full memoir.Key Topics & Timestamps:[05:01] Sally discusses her connection to "wild" personalities and her son Christopher[15:57] The therapeutic benefits of journaling through grief[21:52] How Sally's writing group helped shape her memoir[26:54] Working with She Writes Press and editor Brooke Warner[31:21] The special significance of the book's April 2025 release date[34:01] End of interviewSpecial Note at the End [35:40]: Discussion about changes coming to the podcast format and reducing interview frequency in favor of more solo episodes.Don't miss next week's episode featuring bestselling author Steve Berry! Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Jan 30, 2025 • 48min
Shifting Platforms: Kevin's Decision to Prioritize Substack for Writing Success
The Writer_ is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Welcome to another insightful episode of the Wordslinger Podcast, hosted by none other than the dynamic Kevin Tumlinson. In this solo Slinger episode, Kevin dives deep into the power of process over goals and how our strategies shape our creative journeys. Tune in as he shares his personal experiences with various platforms like Substack, exploring how embracing authenticity can elevate a writer's journey. From local domination strategies to capturing a global audience, Kevin unravels the philosophy of effortless living and how to rise to the level of your process. Whether you're a writer, creator, or just an enthusiast of storytelling, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom on building an enduring, creative career. Join us for an engaging exploration of identity, transformation, and the pursuit of meaningful connections.In this episode of the Wordslinger Podcast, Kevin Tumlinson discusses his evolving strategy as an independent creator and why he's going "all in" on Substack. Key topics include:• The importance of having the right process over just setting goals• Why gaming social media algorithms isn't always the best approach • His "Total Local Domination" strategy for building readership• The significance behind "the writer_" branding• Thoughts on authentic connection with readers• Why Substack works better for independent creators than traditional social platforms• Reflections on being careful about who we look up to in the creative space📌 Important Links:Kevin's Substack: https://kevintumlinson.substack.comKevin's Books: https://kevintumlinson.com/booksFollow Kevin:→ Join the Writer_ newsletter on Substack→ Read the "About" page to learn the story behind the cursor→ Connect locally if you're in the Georgetown, TX area🎙️ The Wordslinger Podcast celebrates authentic storytelling and building genuine connections with readers. New episodes release regularly.#writing #indieauthor #creativity #authortube #substack #writingcommunity Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

Jan 23, 2025 • 59min
From Medicine to Mystery: Cristina LePort's Journey into Writing
In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson interviews Dr. Cristina LePort, who transitioned from a 45-year medical career to becoming a full-time thriller author. They discuss her new medical thriller "Change of Heart" (releasing February 4th), her writing process, and how her medical background influences her storytelling.Watch on YouTube:Key Discussion Points:* Dr. LePort's journey from practicing medicine to writing medical thrillers* Her latest book "Change of Heart" and its premise involving heart transplants* How her medical expertise informs her thriller writing* The overlap between skills needed as a doctor and as an author* Her writing process and approach to character development* The challenges of writing in English as a native Italian speakerFeatured Guest: Dr. Cristina LePort - Medical thriller author and former physicianLinks:* Website: www.cristinaleport.com (without an h)* New Book: "Change of Heart" - Available February 4th in hardcover* Ebook available for pre-order as of January 21st* Preorder here: https://amzn.to/3WqrKRhSubscribe for more interviews with authors and discussions about writing, storytelling, and the creative process.00:00 Writing's Mystical Transformation06:06 Doctor to Full-Time Author Transition09:18 Journey from Novice to Author13:09 Medical Thrillers: A Perfect Fit16:02 Suspicious Organ Donation Suicides17:00 Cyber Agent vs. Mobster Hack21:26 Structured Writing Process Insight25:12 "Unexpected Ending Insights"27:39 Independent Stories with Recurring Characters31:17 Retirement Fulfillment through Writing34:15 "Transplant Inspirations: Writing Influences"38:08 Book Discussion Conclusion & Author Info42:22 "Evolution of the Cursor"44:56 "The Writer and the Cursor"48:55 Author Nation Podcast: AI's Impact51:23 Embracing Writing in the AI Era55:16 Building Resilience Through Adversity57:41 Share, Comment, Stay Hopeful#WritingCommunity #MedicalThrillers #AuthorInterview #WritingPodcast #WordslingerPodcast Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

12 snips
Jan 16, 2025 • 1h 13min
Your Publishing Compass with Carla King
Carla King, an accomplished author and creator of "Your Publishing Compass," shares her insights on guiding authors through the intricate journey of manuscript completion and promotion. She emphasizes the importance of building an authentic author platform and leveraging AI tools for writing and marketing. The discussion dives into the value of author communities for support and collaboration, as well as personal stories highlighting the evolution of relationships in the self-publishing landscape. Carla’s expertise offers invaluable resources for aspiring writers.

Jan 9, 2025 • 1h 3min
From Jim Henson to Keynotes: Andrew Davis's Journey to Storytelling Mastery
SHOW NOTESWhen you meet a guy like Andrew Davis, you can’t help but wonder, “How did he do that?” That was exactly what I was thinking after introducing him at the Author Nation conference in Vegas. His keynote presentation was one of the best I’ve ever scene. I knew within minutes that I had to get this guy on the show. So I did. Also in this episode, I talk about why you don’t have to finish a bad book or a bad movie or even a bad podcast. I even worked in some health tips for diabetics at one point. Tune in for that, if nothing else. See you inside.Watch this episode on YouTube:Show links:- Follow Andrew on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drewdavishereMore for you from J. Kevin Tumlinson- Writers! Tune in to the Writers, Ink Podcast for great interviews and writing wisdom: https://writersinkpodcast.com- The Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast - Visit WordslingerPodcast.com Got a topic or question for the show? Want to AKA (Ask Kevin ANYTHING?) Send it to me at kevintumlinson.com/contact Follow me online:- Buy my books at kevintumlinson.com/books- Read me on Substack: kevintumlinson.substack.com - See me: youtube.com/kevintumlinson - X me out: x.com/kevintumlinson (@kevintumlinson)- Face me: facebook.com/kevintumlinson - Link me: linkedin.com/in/kevintumlinson Thanks for reading The Writer_! This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe