The Wordslinger Podcast

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com 🎯 Check out our sponsor:ProWritingAid – Use code KEVIN20 for 20% off at checkout! CLICK HERE Feeling 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 process Show 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 thoughts Looking 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover more at WordSlingerPodcast.com 🌟 This episode dives deep as Kevin Tumlinson takes you behind the scenes on what it means to face “toxic hope”—when you’re waiting on that big opportunity that never quite arrives—and the emotional toll it can take. From pandemic-triggered anxiety to the challenges of creative burnout, Kevin shares his personal struggles, revelations, and how he reframed hope as a powerful force (not a toxic one). Tune in for honest talk about mental health, storytelling, and how to keep your creative spark alive when life gets overwhelming. In this episode, you’ll hear about: * What “toxic hope” really means—and why the term might be misleading * Enduring deferred dreams, creative frustration, and the quest to stay motivated * How the pandemic and world events triggered a spiral into burnout and depression * Reflections on powerful storytelling (and what writers can learn from This Is Us) * Tips for authentic connection in writing and podcasting * The value of hope—even when things feel impossible * Updates on Kevin’s latest writing projects with J.D. Barker 📎 Show Links: * Author Anchor (authoranchor.com/promo) – Kevin’s sponsor! Get $50 off your first month of VA service—no contracts or obligations. Book your free discovery call now. * WordSlingerPodcast.com – Find every episode, leave a comment, or connect directly with Kevin. * Kevin’s Substack – Weekly posts & updates direct from Kevin. * Dave Cullen Show – YouTube channel for movie & TV reviews mentioned in the episode. 🔥 Sponsor Spotlight:Author AnchorVirtual assistance for authors, tailored to your needs!👉 Visit authoranchor.com/promo for your free discovery call and $50 OFF your first month! ⏱️ Key Topics & Timestamps: * [00:00:00] – Exhausting weeks & podcast marathon recap * [00:01:13] – Author Anchor plug & VA discovery call * [00:03:17] – The pain of deferred hopes & “toxic hope” defined * [00:07:12] – Hope and anxiety in today’s world * [00:08:26] – Storytelling lessons from This Is Us * [00:10:39] – Pandemic triggers, burnout, and lost hope * [00:13:47] – Dealing with depression & creative paralysis * [00:17:03] – Why podcasting and writing matter now more than ever * [00:19:46] – Hope, stress, and late-night writing anxiety * [00:22:46] – Updates on writing, Substack, and authentic connection * [00:25:02] – Spontaneity vs. over-preparation in creative work * [00:28:54] – Closing encouragement: why hope matters Looking for vulnerable, real stories and actionable insights for creatives? Subscribe, like, and share! Want to connect? Leave a comment at wordslingerpodcast.com or reach out on Substack. Hope isn’t toxic—sometimes, it’s just the spark you need. Watch on YouTube Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com 🎯 Check out our sponsors: ProWritingAid: Use code KEVIN20 for 20% off at checkout (visit: https://prowritingaid.com/?utm_source=wordslinger&utm_medium=partner-podcast&utm_campaign=YT-alwayson&utm_content=&utm_term=) In this exciting episode of the Wordslinger Podcast, hosts Kevin Tumlinson chats with Phil Marshall from Spoken about the future of audiobooks and AI technology in publishing. Dive into the world of AI-driven multicast audiobooks, the potential for custom voice generation, and democratizing the audiobook industry for indie authors. If you're an author or a creative looking to enter the audiobook space, this episode is packed with insights and opportunities you don’t want to miss! Show links: * Spoken (spoken.press) - AI-driven audiobook platform * Doctor Phil Marshall (drphilmarshall.com) - Personal and professional insights from Phil Marshall * Author Anchor (authoranchor.com/promotion) - VA service connecting authors with skilled virtual assistants Important Topics & Timestamps: * [00:00:00] - Introduction and purpose of the episode * [00:02:13] - Discussion about AI in audiobooks and introduction of Phil Marshall * [00:11:04] - Explanation of multicast and custom voices * [00:24:28] - Building listener engagement and platform growth * [00:33:08] - Monetization models and fair distribution * [00:40:39] - Call to action with promo code for beta access * [01:07:33] - Closing thoughts and call to action 🔔 Looking 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com 🎯 Check out our sponsors: ProWritingAid - Use code KEVIN20 for 20% off at checkout In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson delves into deep existential questions about the nature of reality and consciousness while introducing his unique "Render Theory." Kevin explores abstract concepts that marry philosophy and science, touching on multiverse ideas, quantum physics, and his personal writing processes. Whether you’re interested in the nature of existence or the philosophical underpinnings of creative writing, there's something for everyone in this thought-provoking discussion. Show links: * Author Anchor (authoranchor.com) - VA service connecting authors with skilled virtual assistants * Wordslinger Podcast (wordslingerpodcast.com) - Explore more episodes and updates * Kevin's Website (kevintumlinson.com) - Discover more about Kevin's work Important Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:00] - Introduction and welcome [00:01:06] - Exploring existential questions and Render Theory [00:10:06] - Inspiration from comic books and multiverse concepts [00:25:37] - Dualism and subjective vs. objective reality [00:32:13] - Writing journey with JD Barker [00:35:31] - Shifts in writing approach and overcoming creative block Looking for more intriguing discussions and writing 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com 🎯 Check out our sponsors: * ProWritingAid: Use code KEVIN20 for 20% off at checkout (visit: prowritingaid.com) - Your go-to tool for assistive editing * Author Anchor: (authoranchor.com/promo) - Connect with skilled virtual assistants and get $50 off your first month In this solo Slinger episode, Kevin Tumlinson dives into what he's calling the "Perspective Economy," examining the shift from the attention economy to a focus on genuine human connections and authentic experiences in content and business. He reflects on the insights gleaned from the writer MBA conference and discusses the impact of AI on the publishing landscape. Can authentic, human-driven content hold its ground against AI? Tune in to find out! Show links: * Author Anchor (authoranchor.com/promo) - VA service for authors with a $50 discount for Wordslinger listeners * ProWritingAid (prowritingaid.com) - Use code KEVIN20 for 20% off - A must-have tool for writers Important Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:00] - Introduction and returning from New Orleans [00:02:02] - Bringing fresh topics to the creative podcast scene [00:06:11] - Breaking the narrative: limits in creative careers [00:13:41] - The transition to the artisan age and perspective economy [00:21:19] - Politics, technology, and the call for authenticity [00:28:25] - Brand fatigue and changing consumer expectations [00:30:16] - Offering perspective as a commodity in business [00:32:49] - Final thoughts and sponsor messages Craving more insights into writing and entrepreneurship? 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Wordslinger Podcast, Episode 257Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com 🎯 Check out our sponsor: ProWritingAid - Use code KEVIN20 for 20% off at checkout In 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 insights Important 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 ideas Looking 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com 🎯 Check out our sponsors: ProWritingAid - Use code KEVIN20 for 20% off at checkout (visit: ProWritingAid) Join Kevin Tumlinson as he sits down with best-selling thriller writer Joseph Finder to discuss his new book, "The Oligarch's Daughter." Dive into the world of writing thrillers as they explore the persistence needed to write, unexpected plot pivots, and adapting to changing global events. Joseph shares insights from his journey and offers advice to aspiring authors navigating their path in the ever-evolving literary landscape. Show links: * Joseph Finder's Website (josephfinder.com) - Explore Joseph's works and updates * Kevin's Substack (kevintumlinson.substack.com) - Regular updates and insights Important Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:00] - Introduction to the episode [00:03:07] - ProWritingAid sponsor message [00:04:19] - Joseph Finder's beginnings in writing [00:14:43] - Crafting thrillers and tackling hurdles [00:32:48] - Inspiration behind "The Oligarch's Daughter" [00:46:43] - Embracing change and innovation in writing [01:11:32] - Closing thoughts and call to action Looking for more thrilling 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com 🎯 Check out our sponsors:ProWritingAid - Use code KEVIN20 for 20% off at checkout. Visit ProWritingAid to get started! In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson interviews YouTube golf sensation Eric Cogorno about how golf and personal development can intersect for self-improvement and success. From honing his craft to helping others via online platforms, Eric dives deep into the lessons golf teaches about life, patience, and moving forward. Show Links: * Eric Cogorno Golf on YouTube - Golf tips and coaching * Lessons I've Learned with Eric Cogorno - Personal development channel * Kevin's Substack (kevintumlinson.substack.com) - Regular updates and insights Important Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:00] - Kevin introduces the episode [00:02:00] - Discussion about the benefits of golf [00:05:15] - ProWritingAid sponsor message [00:06:55] - Interview with Eric Cogorno begins [00:12:05] - Eric talks about starting on YouTube [00:20:34] - Applying golf lessons to writing [00:28:01] - Defining moments and success [00:44:42] - Philosophies on persistence [01:00:44] - Eric discusses his upcoming book release Looking for more strategies to fuel your writing or business journey? Subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes! 🔔 WATCH IT ON YOUTUBE: Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com 🎯 Check out our sponsors: ProWritingAid - Use code KEVIN20 for 20% off at prowritingaid.com In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson chats with Evan Gow from StoryOrigin about book marketing, business evolution, and maintaining work-life balance as an entrepreneur. They discuss StoryOrigin's features including website building, direct sales capabilities, and beta reader management. The conversation explores the importance of simplifying business processes while maintaining quality and growth. Show links: - StoryOrigin (storyoriginapp.com) - All-in-one platform for authors - Author Anchor (authoranchor.com) - VA service connecting authors with skilled virtual assistants - Kevin's Substack (kevintumlinson.substack.com) - Regular updates and insights Important Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:35] - Introduction and weather talk [03:05] - ProWritingAid sponsor message [05:15] - Discussion about StoryOrigin's evolution [12:58] - Core principles of book marketing [21:38] - Discussion about direct sales features [41:38] - Talk about local marketing strategy [01:04:40] - Introduction of Author Anchor VA service [01:14:53] - Closing thoughts and call to action Looking 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 interview Special 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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.com Kevin's Books: https://kevintumlinson.com/books Follow 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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 speaker Featured Guest: Dr. Cristina LePort - Medical thriller author and former physician Links: * 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/3WqrKRh Subscribe for more interviews with authors and discussions about writing, storytelling, and the creative process. 00:00 Writing's Mystical Transformation 06:06 Doctor to Full-Time Author Transition 09:18 Journey from Novice to Author 13:09 Medical Thrillers: A Perfect Fit 16:02 Suspicious Organ Donation Suicides 17:00 Cyber Agent vs. Mobster Hack 21:26 Structured Writing Process Insight 25:12 "Unexpected Ending Insights" 27:39 Independent Stories with Recurring Characters 31:17 Retirement Fulfillment through Writing 34:15 "Transplant Inspirations: Writing Influences" 38:08 Book Discussion Conclusion & Author Info 42:22 "Evolution of the Cursor" 44:56 "The Writer and the Cursor" 48:55 Author Nation Podcast: AI's Impact 51:23 Embracing Writing in the AI Era 55:16 Building Resilience Through Adversity 57:41 Share, Comment, Stay Hopeful #WritingCommunity #MedicalThrillers #AuthorInterview #WritingPodcast #WordslingerPodcast Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SHOW NOTES The Writer_ is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Episode 249 of the Wordslinger Podcast features a conversation with returning guest Carla King about her new program "Your Publishing Compass" - a comprehensive year-long journey helping authors complete their manuscripts while simultaneously handling marketing, publishing, and promotion. Kevin and Carla discuss: * The importance of building your author platform the right way * How AI tools can enhance your writing and marketing efforts * The value of author communities and support systems * Smart ways to research your genre and connect with other authors After the interview, Kevin shares personal insights about limiting beliefs, emotional resilience, and maintaining perspective during challenging career transitions. Links mentioned: * Carla's website: CarlaKing.com * Your Publishing Compass program (affiliate link) https://carlaking.com/publishing-compass/?affiliate_code=b6bef6 * Carla’s blog post: https://carlaking.com/how-to-use-chatgpt-to-plan-draft-and-publish-a-blog-post-every-week-for-a-year/ * Listen to Carla’s FIRST Wordslinger Podcast interview: https://open.substack.com/pub/kevintumlinson/p/wpc-118-getting-author-friendly-with-c97 * Deep Dive: The Novel After Show: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvSjreJNEhuSqdNprOPYYfxgnKjWbrm_2 Subscribe for more author interviews, publishing insights, and authentic conversations about the writing life. New episodes weekly! #writing #publishing #selfpublishing #authorlife #writingcommunity #indieauthor Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SHOW NOTES When 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/drewdavishere More 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SHOW NOTES It’s the first episode of 2025! And I have the absolute honor of chatting with Robin Hamilton, documentary filmmaker and genuinely delightful, wonderful, amazing person. She’s sharing her story and her process, and you are going to be absolutely inspired. But stick around for the NOTE AT THE END, and I’ll talk your ear off about what 2024 taught me, and how I”m ditching “goals” for a mission. The Writer_ is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Watch this episode on YouTube: Show links: * Around Robin Production - https://www.aroundrobin.com * My Substack post, “Wiggling Toes” - https://kevintumlinson.substack.com/p/wiggling-toes More 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. KEY TAKEAWAYS Flexible Reading and Writing Goals: * Importance of understanding the purpose behind goals rather than focusing on numbers. * Suggestion to form daily habits without specific numeric targets to reduce pressure. * Enjoying activities like writing beyond achieving specific word counts. * Preference for a writing routine aligned with a broader mission. * Removing numerical pressure often leads to exceeding previous targets. * Personal intention and progress should guide one’s approach, not competition with others. * Kevin Tumlinson's career shift and personal challenges adapted through strategy. Podcast Focus and New Year Reflections: * Focus on storytelling, branding, writing, and personal redefinition. * Excitement for the new year, inviting listener reflections on 2024 and plans for 2025. Interview with Robin Hamilton: * Robin's background in documentary filmmaking and media. * Transition from journalism to documentaries due to unfulfilled interests. * Starting a production company and learning about business management. * Discussion of storytelling, inspiration, and technical documentary creation. * Journey of creating a notable film about an admired historical woman. Documentary Funding and Production: * Small grants and collaboration for project funding. * Filming a project as a love letter to a woman's legacy. * Success in film festivals and airing on PBS. * Breaking projects into smaller tasks for manageability. * Finding grant resources and importance of organization in grant-writing. Career Reflections and Future Plans: * Experiences with grant rejections and perseverance. * Unexpected success with FBI photos for a documentary. * Robin's film on Odessa Madre and unexpected career paths. * Plans to transform the Odessa film or explore podcast format. * Democratization of content creation through platforms like YouTube. Business Model and Challenges: * Balancing client work, fundraising, and grant applications. * Importance of recurring clients to maintain steady income. * Use of independent contractors for flexibility. * Kevin Tumlinson's experiences and challenges in TV and administrative tasks. Business Planning and Client Focus: * Business plan as a flexible guide for metrics and goals. * Emphasis on mission, core values, and client focus. * Success in nonprofit sector due to referral. * Importance of technology in lowering creative project barriers. Handling Personal and Financial Challenges: * Kevin's financial difficulties leading to depression. * Personal growth and transformation through therapy and self-realization. * Emphasis on intention and personal evolution. Entrepreneurship and Storytelling: * Entrepreneurship as storytelling. * Storytelling focus for 2025. * Use of a planner for ideas and alternative to traditional goal setting. * Insights from "The Courage to be Disliked" and impact of expectations. Writing Goals and Personal Mission: * High expectations leading to pressure and disappointment. * Preference for life mission over vague goals. * Encouragement to develop an ideal self as an ongoing mission. Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SHOW NOTES The FINAL EPISODE (of 2024). This week I chat with Jesse Lakes, founder of Genius Link—a tool that helps you send readers and customers to all the right places, from a single, very useful URL. Also in this episode, I talk about some of my own upcoming plans for 2025, including ways I intend to monetize this show and more of my work, and my “strategy is better than planning” approach. Some nice pearls of wisdom here, so don’t miss the “Note at the End.” Watch this episode on YouTube: Show links: * Genius Link: https://geniuslink.com More 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SHOW NOTES Ho-ho-ho, Slingers! It’s a Very Christmasy Wordslinger Podcast, and I can’t think of a better or more inspiring guest than Marco Gamboa. Here to talk about his book, “Within Normal Limits,” and the life-altering diagnosis that inspired him to write it. In this interview we chat about multiple sclerosis, writing as a legacy, and the most important topic of all… living in Texas. Find me on Substack at https://kevintumlinson.substack.com Watch this episode on YouTube: Show links: - Read “Within Normal Limits” - https://amzn.to/3ZLTZLf - Find Marco Gamboa online - https://wnlmarco.com More 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SHOW NOTES Some people are just my people. And that’s definitely true for this week’s guest. Julie Fingersh is a writer, journalist, and most recently, the author of “Stay: A Story of Family, Love & Other Traumas.” In this episode we talk about the one thing we all have in common, which is families that drive us nuts. We also talk about writing essays, managing careers, dealing with empty nests, and more. Tune in, don’t miss it, say hello in the comments. Watch this episode on YouTube: Show links: - Julie’s website: https://www.juliefingersh.com - Find the book: https://amzn.to/3BdMNzu More 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SHOW NOTES This episode, I had the chance to chat with a new friend, and someone who has a strong YouTube channel of his own. Dave Cullen—YouTuber, film critic, and now novelist—swings by to talk about his new book, and his new foray into writing fiction. From the woes of cover to design to the highs of holding your book in print, we run through it all. With Texas and Irish accents, to boot. Watch this episode on YouTube: Show links: * Buy “Deus V Machina” - https://amzn.to/3VqIPue * The Dave Cullen Show - https://www.youtube.com/@TheDaveCullenShow More 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SHOW NOTES Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast This week you get to eavesdrop on me meeting Pete Paschal for the very first time, in a chat about AI and marketing that I think will be eye-opening for just about everybody. And in my Note at the End, I talk about some things that come straight from the heart—covered in blood and everything. Oh, also, there’s Kevin Smith here. Find out what Kevin Smith smells like. Then ask me how I know. And finally, happy Thanksgiving 2024 to all the US folks (and ok, everyone else, too… I’m grateful for you, puddin’). Watch this episode on YouTube: Show links: * Books and Coaching: https://learn.mediacopilot.ai/ * Media Copilot - https://mediacopilot.ai/ 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 MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW! Download your copy at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here when you go to 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SHOW NOTES Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast My most popular and longest-running thriller novel series has been my Dan Kotler Archaeological Thrillers, which deal with threats emerging from ancient history to muck up the works in the modern world. So this new release from George K. Mehok, “Going Dark,” is my kind of novel. In this episode, we talk about the book and the real-world history and technology it explores. Watch this episode on YouTube: Show links: * Order “Going Dark” on Amazon (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/3CekEbo * George K. Mehok - Author Website: https://www.georgemehok.com * Author Nation: https://www.authornation.live * Author Natione RAVE - come get me to sign your books, and see Kevin Smith, Live! - https://www.authornation.live/RAVE * Dave Cullen’s video promoting my books - 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 MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW! Download your copy at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SHOW NOTES Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast I’ve read and studied a lot of both Greek philosophy and guides for writers. And in the Venn diagram of those two things, they overlap in a big way with Aristotle’s “Poetica.” So when Douglas Vigliotti approached me to talk about his book, “Aristotle for Authors,” I couldn’t wait to have the conversation. I think you’ll find this one hugely interesting and helpful, too. Watch this episode on YouTube: Show links: * Aristotle for Authors - AristotleforNovelists.com * Douglas Vigliotti - DouglasVigliotti.com * Books for Men Podcast - BooksforMen.org 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 MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW! Download your copy at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SHOW NOTES Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast I love memoirs. It’s an art to craft something that pulls from your personal, real-world experience in a way that’s fun, engaging, and entertaining to a reader. Doing it right takes skill. And that’s where Wendy Dale comes in. Wendy joins me for a conversation about doing memoir right, in this episode of the Wordslinger Podcast. Watch this episode on YouTube: Show links: * Memoir Writing for Geniuses - Geniusmemoirwriting.com * Sign up for a FREE class on writing memoir - FreeMemoirClass.com Find me on Substack at 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 MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW! Download your copy at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here when you go to 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: Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SHOW NOTES Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast James Blatch and Cara Clare are the creators and co-hosts of Indie Writers Club, a podcast for indie authors. And the two are more than qualified for the gig. In this episode of the Wordslinger Podcast, I chat with the two of them about podcasting, writing, spicey romance, and even a little AI just for fun. Watch this episode on YouTube: Show links: * Indie Writers Club Podcast: https://indiewritersclub.com * James Blatch: https://jamesblatch.com * Cara Clare: https://shadeandswoon.com Find me on Substack at 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 MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW! Download your copy at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SHOW NOTES Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast Things are changing, for sure. Changing back, actually. Just visit Target or Walmart, and it’s like 1994 in there. Vinyl records and CDs, Polaroid and disposable film cameras… it’s like slipping backward in time. But I think it has more to do with a trend toward wanting more tangle experiences. We all want to own things again, and virtual just isn’t cutting it. So how does this loop back to being a creative and making a living? I’m not giving you the answer for free, go tune in to the episode. Sheesh. Show links: * Here’s that Perky Beans Coffee ad spot: Find me on Substack at Writers! Tune in the Writers, Ink Podcast for great interviews and writing wisdom: https://writersinkpodcast.com The Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW! Download your copy at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SHOW NOTES Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast Sometimes I get to interview someone that I just click with, and this was definitely one of those times. Thriller author Taylor Moore lives in the Texas Panhandle, and draws on his experiences there as well as his background as a former CIA agent to craft stories that will keep you turning pages long after you should have gone to bed. I loved this chat with Taylor, and I look forward to many more in the future. Show links: ⁃ Find Taylor and his books online https://www.taylormoorebooks.com Find me on Substack at https://kevintumlinson.substack.com Writers! Tune in the Writers, Ink Podcast for great interviews and writing wisdom: https://writersinkpodcast.com The Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW! Download your copy at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SHOW NOTES Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast Small victories… sometimes they’re the only victories we get. So we should learn how to take every little victory and milk it for all the momentum we can get out of it. In this episode I talk about using tools like journaling, branding, AI, and just the act of opening a word processor to give you the leg up you need to write or do other creative work. Show links: * Get my Pumpkin Spice Novels at https://kevintumlinsion.com/books Find me on Substack at Writers! Tune in the Writers, Ink Podcast for great interviews and writing wisdom: https://writersinkpodcast.com The Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW! Download your copy at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SHOW NOTES Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast I’ve co-authored a book or two in my career, but now that I’m partnering with J.D. Barker on one, it’s an eye opening experience. Luckily, I have plenty of opportunity to get a sneak peek into the process as JD and our podcast co-host Christine Daigle are set to release their first co-authored book in November. And following on that, the two of them are writing a sequel to the 1990s film “Flatliners.” We talk about all of this in this special ANNIVERSARY episode of the Wordslinger Podcast. Show links: * Preorder “Heavy are the Stones: https://amzn.to/4e3tw1u * Tune in to the Writers, Ink Podcast: https://writersinkpodcast.com Find me on Substack at Writers! Tune in the Writers, Ink Podcast for great interviews and writing wisdom: https://writersinkpodcast.com The Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW! Download your copy at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SHOW NOTES Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast This didn’t start out as an “AI” episode, but it kind of veered that way. Here I’m talking about ways I use AI to help (not DO) my writing, and ways I think it can be beneficial to other writers and creatives. I also talk about what I call the “Artisan Age,” and the emphasis of quality over quantity. Perspective and experience are the new commodities. Show links: * Daniel Silva interview - Find me on Substack at Writers! Tune in the Writers, Ink Podcast for great interviews and writing wisdom: https://writersinkpodcast.com The Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW! Download your copy at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This didn’t start out as an “AI” episode, but it kind of veered that way. Here I’m talking about ways I use AI to help (not DO) my writing, and ways I think it can be beneficial to other writers and creatives. I also talk about what I call the “Artisan Age,” and the emphasis of quality over quantity. Perspective and experience are the new commodities. Show links: * The “Typewriter Rebellion” - * NINC (Novelists Inc) - https://ninc.com/ Find me on Substack at Writers! Tune in the Writers, Ink Podcast for great interviews and writing wisdom: https://writersinkpodcast.com The Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW! Download your copy at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s a Solo Slinger episode, and this week I’m talking about refiling your bucket, sharpening your axe and/or saw, and basically just improving your mental health and your creative work by finding hobbies and other experiences. We’e in the business of observing, contemplating, and expressing, so we could use some interesting things to observe. Also in this episode I talk about metal detectors and (oh so briefly and delicately) the current drama of politics. I promise, it’s painless. Show links: * Beau Miles (main channel): https://www.youtube.com/@BeauMiles * Beauisms: Finding money on roundabouts: Find me on Substack at Writers! Tune in the Writers, Ink Podcast for great interviews and writing wisdom: https://writersinkpodcast.com The Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW! Download your copy at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

JD Barker returns and this time he’s talking money. And since we all like money, I think we’re going to be in good shape. This episode we explore the side hustle, revenue diversity, eggs in baskets, the whole game. Here’s a way to keep oatmeal in the bowl even as the writing is finding its audience. Show links: * JD’s site: jdbarker.com * Writer’s Ink Podcast - writersinkpodcast.com * Bigger Pockets Podcast - https://www.biggerpockets.com/podcasts/real-estate MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW! Download your copy at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: The Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s a solo-slinger episode! I kind of ramble a bit about a lot of different things, but over all I give you my hot take on why you should focus less on being loyal to your employer and instead pour your time, energy, and effort into building a career you own. I’m a writer, so that’s the focus of most of my time. But whatever business you’re building, this applies. The point is, your employer is never going to be loyal to you. So you don’t own them any loyalty back. Make your passion your priority, and own your career outright. It’s worth any cost. Show links: * Find my books at https://kevintumlinson.com/books MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW! Download your copy at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: The Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dale Roberts has become a good friend to me over the past decade or so, and he’s certainly done a lot to help indie authors in their careers. His YouTube channel is superb, well thought out, and done with care. In this episode, though, Dale and I step back from the mic a bit and give you some of the behind the scenes of life in the self publishing space. Show links: * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKv8xcrFntOERL7NUXgkypg * Linktr.ee - https://linktr.ee/selfpubwithdale * Website: https://selfpublishingwithdale.com MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW! Download your copy at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: The Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Melanie Herschorn is someone I first met after interviewing her for the Writers, Ink Podcast, and I’m really glad I did. Because as much as it is wonderful to meet someone who helps authors market their books, it’s even more wonderful to meet someone who is genuinely a good and enjoyable person to have a conversation with. And in this chat with Melanie, we do talk marketing and more. She’s a new, good friend, and I hope you’ll love her as much as I do. Show links: * Website: https://vipbookmarketing.com MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW! Download your copy at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: The Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Find me on Substack at https://kevintumlinson.substack.com Joanna Penn, aka the Hose of the Creative Pen Podcast, aka author J.F. Penn… I could spend all day listing all the ways she’s influenced the indie publishing world. But her latest moves are opening eyes to a new way of thinking, and a whole new approach to writing and publishing. In this episode, Jo joins me to talk about what she’s doing with Kickstarter and direct sales, and also about what it has meant to serve the writing community. It’s a good one, so tune in and share. Show links: - Website: https://jfpenn.com - Kickstarter for “The Spear of Destiny”: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/thecreativepenn/spear-of-destiny-an-action-adventure-thriller-novel - Creative Penn Podcast: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/the-creative-penn-podcast-for-authors/ MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW! Download your copy at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: The Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s kind of weird how you can often find people who are living a life or working a career path that is eerily parallel to your own. That’s the case with me and my friend, Grant Faulkner. We both came to publishing around the same time and in roughly similar ways. We both ended up working for organizations that serve the writing community. And we both left those roles at roughly the same time, to pursue other facets of our dreams. In this episode, I talk to Grant about his journey, but I also talk to you about yours. Because it’s ok to step back and take a look at your dream, and realize, “This isn’t what I want anymore.” Show links: * Website: http://grantfaulkner.com * America’s Next Great Author: https://americasnextgreatauthor.com * Grant Faulkner on Substack: MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW! Download your copy at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: The Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I feel like the whole question of whether we live in a simulation is settled. We can see the pixels. And when we look closer at everything we ever thought of as being “the smallest thing that can exist,” we eventually look past it and see that the universe…. well, it stops making any sense. All the rules of order we think are fundamental to existence stop working altogether, at the quantum level. My good friend, author Ernest Dempsey, agrees with me on this. And in this interview we talk about simulation theory and more. Jump in. Tell me what you think. Show links: - Website: https://ernestdempsey.net - Find Ernie on YouTube: youtube.com/@ernestdempsey - MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” RELEASES MAY 15! Reserve your copy now at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: The Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I often tell people that poetry has never been my thing. But I’m learning that I’ve always been wrong about that. Because not only do I find myself reading more poetry, it turns out I’ve been writing my own poetry for years without quite realizing it. That’s not the case with my guest, Vance Monet. He’s a poet and he knows it. And he’s experimenting with something he calls “inversions metaphor,” crafting poems that bring a new perspective to everyday experiences. We talk about that and the San Francisco Forty-Niners (as poetic inspiration) in this episode of Wordslinger. Show links: - Website: https://vancemonet.my.canva.site/ - Vance Monet on Twitch: www.twitch.tv/Eskendale MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” RELEASES MAY 15! Reserve your copy now at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QMecGA2bptQ?si=u3iJ8Lq-qwL6rEi4 The Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Cameron Sutter is a kind soul. If you ever get a chance to sit and chat with him at a conference or anywhere else, I promise he’s going to surprise you. He’s an author of fiction, but in his quest to make writing just a little easier for himself he ended up creating software that can make writing easier for you, too. Plottr is a versatile and amazing application that even I, a lifelong and dedicated pantser, have found a use for. We talk about Plottr, otters, and more in this interview. Show links: * Try out Plottr to outline your next book (and get Otter Merch!): Plottr.com * Plottr on Facebook: facebook.com/plottrapp * Tune in to Plottr on YouTube: youtube.com/plottr * Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” RELEASES MAY 15! Reserve your copy now at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz The Wordslinger Podcast Playlist on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvSjreJNEhuQX5DnVehfdIoC0SfC4wEKu Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Johnny B. Truant has been in the DNA of self publishing almost from the start. He’s an author, a podcaster, a reluctant influencers. Great guy, too. And his series, “Fat Vampire,” has been adapted by the SyFy Channel as “Reginald the Vampire.” Success by almost any definition! But is it success by Johnny’s definition? We talk about that, and about the movement and evolution happening in the publishing industry, and what it means to be an “iconoclast author” (or an “artisan author,” if you’re me). This is a great conversation, and I think everyone (even non-authors) will get a lot out of it. Food for the soul. Show links: * Johnny’s Website: https://johnnybtruant.com * Johnny’s Substack: https://substack.com/@johnnybtruant * “We’re Entering the Age of the Iconoclast Writer” - Author Stack Post - MY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” RELEASES MAY 15! Reserve your copy now at https://bit.ly/forgottenruneaz The Wordslinger Podcast Playlist on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvSjreJNEhuQX5DnVehfdIoC0SfC4wEKu Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

JD Barker, New York Times and International best selling author, has had one of the most interesting lives and careers I can think of. From the time he was asked to write a Dracula novel by Bram Stoker estate to the time he solved a friend’s murder, and on to a prolific and successful career as a thriller writer, JD’s meandered along a path most of us couldn’t imagine. And then there’s the email… a slip, an accident, someone sent the wrong thing to the wrong list, and controversy ensued. In this episode of Wordslinger we’re diving deep in the history of JD Barker, celebrating the wins and learning from the mistakes. WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE Show links: * JD Barker’s website - jdbarker.com * Order your copy of “Behind a Closed Door” - https://jdbarker.com/books/behind-a-closed-door/ The Wordslinger Podcast Playlist on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvSjreJNEhuQX5DnVehfdIoC0SfC4wEKu Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Evans is a busy guy. Writing books. Recording podcasts. Founding and running a successful startup in the publishing space. And, oh yeah, graduating from Harvard. And yet he still had time to swing by and chat with me about how storytellers rule the world. And I agree. Take a listen to this episode of the Wordslinger Podcast, and stick around to hear this week’s 3 Things. Show links: Ream - reamstories.com Ream Podcast - subscriptionsforauthors.com Michaels Books - mevansinked.com The Wordslinger Podcast Playlist on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvSjreJNEhuQX5DnVehfdIoC0SfC4wEKu Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Story builds brand loyalty. Give your audience a good story and they’re a fan for life. And this isn’t just for writers—this is for content creators, entrepreneurs, even employees. Listen in and I explain. In this episode, I talk about the San Antonio Zoo, Buc-ees, and my quest for the world’s best chicken salad. I also talk about worry and despair, versus the choice of joy and hope. WATCH THE EPISODE ON YOUTUBE: Thank you for reading The Writer_. This post is public so feel free to share it. Show links: * Chicken Salad Chick - https://www.chickensaladchick.com * How I Made This interview with Stacy Brown (Founder of Chicken Salad Chick) - https://www.npr.org/2018/06/29/624713103/chicken-salad-chick-stacy-brown * Buc-ees - https://www.bucees.com/ * San Antonia Zoo - https://sazoo.org The Wordslinger Podcast Playlist on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvSjreJNEhuQX5DnVehfdIoC0SfC4wEKu Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Social media is not a sales and marketing tool—it’s a COMMUNITY tool. And if you want to promote something (a book, a business, a service), it’s going to help a whole lot to come at it from that angle. We’re also talking about my “3 things” for this episode. Ever been accused of something you didn’t do? Had someone badmouth you behind your back? Me too. And I think that taps us both into one of the most human things I can think of. This week on the Wordslinger Podcast, I talk about the new show format, and then answer listener questions in Ask Kevin Anything. WATCH THE EPISODE ON YOUTUBE: Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to 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 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Writer_ is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Four years ago, August 2020, I posted the last episode of the Wordslinger Podcast. I didn’t really know it would be the last episode, at the time. But 2020 changed everything for me, and not just in the ways it changed everything for all of us. The pandemic did disrupt things, for sure. But on top of that, Kara and I had started doing full-time van life, traveling the US, moving continuously. My work at Draft2Digital quadrupled at that time. My writing career went through some dramatic changes. And so did I. To be honest, that Fall of 2020 I found myself questioning everything about my life and career. And it all just got to be too much. Now, in 2024, I’m in such a different place, it’s almost like I’m a different person. I left Draft2Digital to be CEO of another company. And I’ve since left that company to go back to writing and creating full time. Kara and I built a house, and we now live in the Austin area. And my writing career has continued to evolve. It’s a new era. I’m a new Wordslinger. And I think it’s time to explore that. What will happen with the show? No idea. I’m winging this, to be honest. I plan to get back to weekly episodes, but I’m experimenting to figure out what that means, exactly. I’m learning a new platform, and I’m testing a new format. One thing you might like, I’m adding a segment I call “AKA: Ask Kevin Anything.” And I mean that… literally anything. What do the ancient Egyptians have in common with the ancient Mayans? Who was the first baseball player? What’s in an Irish Old Fashioned? Which Beetle wrote “Please Please Me?” (since no one realized this was a joke, here is a side note to say “this was a joke.” huazzh!) What’s the best way to write a novel—pants it or plot it? Anything. You can start right here. Just click the button below and ask your question in the comments. I won’t promise to answer every question, but I’ll put some good ones from various places. Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steve Berry is the New York Times and #1 internationally bestselling author of 13 Cotton Malone adventures and four stand-alone thrillers. His books have been translated into 40 languages with more than 22,000,000 copies in 51 countries. They consistently appear in the top echelon of The New York Times, USA Today, and indie bestseller lists. GUEST LINKS: Website:: www.steveberry.org Amazon Author page:: https://www.amazon.com/Malta-Exchange-Steve-Berry/dp/1250140269/ Facebook:: https://www.facebook.com/SteveBerryWriter/ YouTube Channel:: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi9nEHISaFpRqkEqTwPDvQ2-jrBrgM61R SHOW LINKS: Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: youtube.com/c/KevinTumlinson Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: youtube.com/c/wordslingerpodcast Author.Email: author.email Indie Author Blueprint: indieauthorblueprint.com AuthorOnTheRoad.com SPONSORS: INDIE AUTHOR BLUEPRINT: You are not alone! Find out where to start, and how to build and grow your indie author career. And we’ll be with you the whole way! http://indieauthorblueprint.com DRAFT2DIGITAL: Convert, publish, and distribute your book worldwide, with support the whole way. https://draft2digital.com/wordslinger ACORNS: Start an Acorns account today and get FREE MONEY! kevintumlinson.com/acorns AUDIBLE.COM: Get a FREE 30-day trial of Audible and listen to any audiobook in their vast library, when you go to http://audibletrial.com/wordslinger Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

PETER D. JOHNSTON is a renowned negotiation expert and bestselling author of Negotiating with Giants, a nonfiction guide to the art and science of negotiation. His pioneering expertise in asymmetric negotiations is sought worldwide by companies and governments. A former journalist and banker, he is a graduate of the Harvard Business School and has been interviewed by CNN, ABC, Fox, The Wall Street Journal, The Globe and Mail and Oprah & Friends. GUEST LINKS: Website:: https://weaponsofpeace-book.com/ Amazon Author page:: https://www.amazon.com/Peter-D-Johnston/e/B00MG4MKRO/ Twitter Handle:: @nailimited Facebook:: https://www.facebook.com/nailimited/photos/a.262102297613286/262103677613148/?type=1&theater YouTube Channel:: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdkmDk06hoE SHOW LINKS: Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: youtube.com/c/KevinTumlinson Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: youtube.com/c/wordslingerpodcast Author.Email: author.email Indie Author Blueprint: indieauthorblueprint.com AuthorOnTheRoad.com SPONSORS: INDIE AUTHOR BLUEPRINT: You are not alone! Find out where to start, and how to build and grow your indie author career. And we’ll be with you the whole way! http://indieauthorblueprint.com DRAFT2DIGITAL: Convert, publish, and distribute your book worldwide, with support the whole way. https://draft2digital.com/wordslinger ACORNS: Start an Acorns account today and get FREE MONEY! kevintumlinson.com/acorns AUDIBLE.COM: Get a FREE 30-day trial of Audible and listen to any audiobook in their vast library, when you go to http://audibletrial.com/wordslinger Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Casey Barrett is a crime novelist, Canadian Olympian, and the co-founder and co-CEO of Imagine Swimming, New York City's largest learn-to-swim school. He is the author of the Shamus-nominated Duck Darley series, set in present-day Manhattan, with the third, THE TOWER OF SONGS, to be released on August 27th. Casey has won three Emmy awards and one Peabody award for his work on NBC's broadcasts of the Olympic Games. He was the author of the popular swimming blog, Cap & Goggles, and was a regular contributor to the Village Voice. His work has also appeared in GQ, Rolling Stone, and Swimming World magazine. GUEST LINKS: Website:: www.caseybarrettbooks.com Amazon Author page:: https://www.amazon.com/Casey-Barrett/e/B07SX5VSSP Twitter Handle:: @CapandGoggles Facebook:: @CaseyBarrettBooks How can listeners join your mailing list?: Best way is through my website - caseybarrettbooks.com SHOW LINKS: Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: youtube.com/c/KevinTumlinson Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: youtube.com/c/wordslingerpodcast Author.Email: author.email Indie Author Blueprint: indieauthorblueprint.com AuthorOnTheRoad.com SPONSORS: INDIE AUTHOR BLUEPRINT: You are not alone! Find out where to start, and how to build and grow your indie author career. And we’ll be with you the whole way! http://indieauthorblueprint.com DRAFT2DIGITAL: Convert, publish, and distribute your book worldwide, with support the whole way. https://draft2digital.com/wordslinger ACORNS: Start an Acorns account today and get FREE MONEY! kevintumlinson.com/acorns AUDIBLE.COM: Get a FREE 30-day trial of Audible and listen to any audiobook in their vast library, when you go to http://audibletrial.com/wordslinger Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices