The Wordslinger Podcast

It's all about the story here.
  • 4.8 (57)
  • ARTS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

From award-winning and bestselling author J. Kevin Tumlinson, this weekly podcast explores the stories that shape us into who we are, and shape the world into what it can become. There are interviews with authors and non-authors, deep dives into useful ideas, and solo-slinger episodes that are authentic and real, aimed at giving you the best, most honest advice about life as a creator. Every episode is a story. It's all about the story here. kevintumlinson.substack.com

  1. 2D AGO

    3 Ways to Know If You Should Finish, Pause, or Abandon Your Book

    Wordslinger Podcast, Episode 292 Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com 🎙️ In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson tackles a topic every writer understands: when (and why) we abandon books before they’re finished. Should you push through the muddy middle, press pause and return with fresh eyes, or shelve your project for good? Kevin Tumlinson opens up about his process, shares practical strategies for overcoming creative roadblocks, and invites you to rethink your relationship with unfinished work. Whether you’re on your first novel or your fiftieth, this episode will help you navigate the emotional and strategic choices behind finishing—or leaving behind—your books. Show links: - Plottr — https://plottr.com - Visual book outlining software, mentioned as a tool for plotting and story organization - Kevin’s Substack — https://kevintumlinson.substack.com - Where Kevin Tumlinson shares regular writing insights and updates - Find Kevin and his books - https://kevintumlinson.com Important Topics & Timestamps: 00:07 - Introduction: Why we abandon books 01:14 - When to push through vs. when to pause 04:07 - Tools for outlining and the muddy middle 07:17 - Shiny Object Syndrome and how to avoid it 09:02 - Taking productive breaks and using reminders 13:16 - Signs it’s time to abandon a book 16:19 - The sunk cost fallacy in writing 20:19 - Repurposing unfinished work 24:05 - The power of finishing (even bad) first drafts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    27 min

  2. JAN 29

    6 Ways I Use AI While Writing My Books (Not What You Think)

    Wordslinger Podcast, Episode 291 – AI Tips for Writers Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson (Kevin Tumlinson, the Wordslinger) dives deep into practical, creative, and sometimes surprising ways writers can use AI tools to supercharge their writing process—without letting AI write the book for you! Whether you’re seeking richer scene descriptions, faster transcription, or a fresh take on editing and cover design, this episode is packed with actionable tips and real-world examples. Tune in to discover: How to use AI for research and authentic descriptions when you can’t visit a place Ways AI can streamline handwritten manuscripts and transcriptions AI-driven editing to catch typos, plot holes, and logical inconsistencies Creative strategy for using AI’s predictive power to defy formulaic storytelling Insights on ethical considerations and how to keep your unique voice at the forefront of your art 🔗 Show Links: ProWritingAid — Writing, editing, and grammar tool for authors NotebookLM — Google’s AI for manuscript analysis and creative brainstorming ChatGPT — AI assistant for research, editing, formatting, and more MidJourney — AI-powered art generator for book covers Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube — Subscribe for episodes, show notes, and creative tips Watch (and subscribe!) on YouTube ⏰ Important Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:00] – Intro, weather talk, and what’s coming up [00:01:28] – Why authors are talking about AI (and addressing the controversy) [00:02:24] – AI tips for writers: research, worldbuilding, and scene-setting [00:06:48] – Using AI for handwriting transcription and audio dictation [00:08:43] – AI as your copy editor: grammar, style, and error catching [00:11:44] – Deep-dive: NotebookLM for manuscript analysis [00:13:37] – Why you shouldn’t fully trust AI (and how to use it instead) [00:15:33] – Subverting AI’s predictions to keep your stories fresh [00:21:07] – Cover design and AI-generated art: ethics and best practices [00:23:31] – Navigating publishers’ AI policies and platform rules [00:28:17] – AI and authenticity: writing, art, and originality [00:32:10] – Wrap-up, call for audience AI tips & feedback Looking for more writing and publishing strategies? 👍 Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell on YouTube, or follow the Wordslinger Podcast on your favorite platform to never miss an episode! Have your own AI tips (or creative hacks) for writers? Share them in the comments and help our community grow together! Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    35 min

  3. JAN 22

    AI Is Beating Writers at Their Own Game (Here’s the Only Way to Win)

    Wordslinger Podcast, Episode 290Discover more at Wordslinger Podcast, Episode 290 🎯 Check out our sponsor: Author AnchorYou just want to write. Author Anchor matches you with an author assistant for just $7.50 per hour, so you can hand off marketing and promotion, admin tasks, advertising, editing, social media, and more. Book a free, zero-obligation discovery call now at authoranchor.com. In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson explores how creativity, storytelling, and human expression can stay ahead in a world where AI is becoming increasingly capable of recognizing and replicating patterns. Drawing on personal experiences and musings about the evolving writing industry, [Speaker A] discusses the need for creators to disrupt patterns, break formulas, and seek authenticity that machines can’t replicate. Whether packing for a big move during a Texas freeze or reflecting on the changing landscape of publishing, it’s a thought-provoking look at the future of storytelling. Show links: * Writers’ Inc. Podcast (writersincpodcast.com) – [Speaker A]’s other show, featuring author interviews and discussion * Author Anchor (authoranchor.com) – VA service connecting authors with skilled virtual assistants Watch (and subscribe!) on YouTube: Important Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:01] – Introduction, Texas freeze & backdrop reveal [00:01:08] – Packing, moving stories, and storage adventures [00:02:27] – Weather, bitter cold & living with unpredictability [00:03:20] – Writers’ Inc. Podcast mention [00:04:18] – Why [Speaker A] shifted away from interviews on Wordslinger [00:05:10] – Fun past podcast formats & spontaneous storytelling [00:06:33] – How AI impacts creativity and the formulaic nature of writing [00:10:17] – Pattern recognition as a human survival trait [00:14:27] – The evolution of publishing & breaking old systems [00:19:01] – Reinventing storytelling beyond formulas [00:22:36] – Art movements that disrupted patterns in history [00:23:38] – Authenticity, emotion, and embracing the soul in creative work [00:25:07] – Wrap up, weather preps, and call to create with purpose Looking for more writing and publishing insights? Subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes! 🔔 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    29 min

  4. JAN 15

    The Analog Rebellion: Why Creators Are Walking Away from Big Tech

    Wordslinger Podcast, Episode 289 – “Analog Rebellion”Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com 🎯 Sponsor Spotlight: Author AnchorWant to focus on your craft and ditch the admin grind? Author Anchor connects you with a skilled author assistant for just $7.50/hr. Delegate marketing, promotions, editing, social media, and more. Book your FREE, no-obligation discovery call at https://authoranchor.com. In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson takes us deep into the heart of the “Analog Rebellion”—today’s growing movement to reclaim physical media and hands-on experiences in a world dominated by digital subscriptions, licensing, and relentless algorithms. From the resurgence of vinyl records to journaling by hand, Kevin shares personal stories and cultural insights on why tactile experiences and true ownership matter now more than ever.Tune in for a reflection on why so many are ditching the cloud, getting picky with their collections, and escaping the digital jail bars for creative freedom and authenticity. Show Links: * The Artisan Author by Johnny B. Truant - Book for artisan-minded authors: https://www.amazon.com/Artisan-Author-Johnny-B-Truant/dp/B09X5ZV56L * Author Anchor (authoranchor.com) - VA service for authors: https://authoranchor.com * Kevin’s Substack for updates and insights: Watch (and Subscribe!) on YouTube: Key Topics & Timestamps [00:00:00] – Introduction: The “Analog Rebellion”[00:02:09] – Kevin’s lost vinyl collection story[00:05:15] – Renaissance of vinyl, Polaroids, and analog tech[00:06:19] – Digital jail bars: ownership v. licensing[00:07:32] – Resurgence of physical books and media[00:14:05] – Escaping the algorithm: media, ads, privacy[00:17:49] – Analog writing process: pen, paper, and mindset[00:22:01] – Typewriters, smart typewriters, and focused writing tools[00:26:08] – Building a personal media server; ditching streaming[00:28:10] – Subscription fatigue and digital ownership[00:30:20] – Dangers of algorithmic censorship[00:31:42] – Wrap-up: Call to action & listener engagement ✨ If the analog rebellion speaks to you—or you’re just tired of digital gatekeepers—hit subscribe and ring that notification bell for more Wordslinger goodness! Drop your comments below: What does “Analog Rebellion” look like in your life? Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    34 min

  5. JAN 9

    I Stopped Typing My Novels — Here’s What Happened

    Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com 🎯 Check out our sponsor: Author AnchorYou just want to write. Author Anchor matches you with an author assistant for just $7.50 per hour, so you can hand off marketing and promotion, admin tasks, advertising, editing, social media, and more. Book a free, zero-obligation discovery call now at https://authoranchor.com. This week on the Wordslinger Podcast, Kevin Tumlinson dives into the hands-on art of “Writing by hand” and why he’s experimenting with pen and paper for his next novel. If you’ve ever wondered whether going analog could boost your creativity or help beat writer’s block, this episode offers practical insights, personal stories, and a modern workflow that bridges handwriting with AI tools like ChatGPT and Scrivener. Tune in as Kevin Tumlinson discusses how writing by hand connects him more deeply to his stories, helps prevent burnout, and changes the flavor of his fiction. He also shares tips for building new habits, staying creative, and pushing past plateaus with intentional experimentation. Show links: * Kevin’s Substack – https://kevintumlinson.substack.com Weekly essays, reflections, and updates from Kevin * Wordslinger Podcast – https://wordslingerpodcast.com All Wordslinger episodes plus Substack links * Author Anchor – https://authoranchor.com Hire a vetted author assistant for just $7.50/hr Watch (and subscribe!) on YouTube: Important Topics & Timestamps: * [00:00:05] – Why Kevin experiments with his writing process and how it shaped his career * [00:08:50] – Overcoming burnout, shifting genres, and finding new creative energy * [00:11:22] – The spontaneity and benefits of writing fiction by hand * [00:14:13] – How handwriting taps into creativity (and tips for journaling) * [00:16:19] – Using ChatGPT for digitizing handwritten text and editing workflow * [00:20:22] – Comparing writing by hand to cooking from scratch—intentional creativity * [00:29:23] – The power of slowing down and embracing delayed gratification in writing * [00:34:07] – Is this Kevin’s new permanent process? Why experimentation matters * [00:36:03] – Subscribe, share, and connect with the Wordslinger community Looking for fresh writing strategies and creative inspiration? Hit subscribe and tap the notification bell so you never miss an episode! 🔔 — 👆 Leave a comment below if you’ve ever tried writing by hand, or share your latest writerly experiment! Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    39 min

  6. JAN 1

    Why Productivity Almost Killed My Creativity

    Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Check out our sponsor: Author AnchorYou just want to write. Author Anchor matches you with an author assistant for just $7.50 per hour, so you can hand off marketing, admin, editing, social media, and more. Book a free, zero-obligation discovery call now at authoranchor.com. Episode Overview: As 2025 comes to a close, Kevin Tumlinson opens up about his intentions for 2026—both as a writer and as a human seeking more meaning, joy, and flexibility in his craft. In this reflective solo episode, you'll discover how continual writing, true work-life integration, and conscious choices about happiness can revitalize not only your career, but your life. Whether you're a writer, creative, entrepreneur, or dreamer, this episode is packed with insights to inspire your year ahead. Tune in to learn: - Why productivity can be a double-edged sword—and how to keep your creativity alive- How Kevin Tumlinson is rethinking his writing process for maximum adaptability- The importance of letting life fuel your creative work- How to consciously choose joy, even during dark times- The value of pursuing passion over just chasing profit- Powerful stories and actionable wisdom for making 2026 your most intentional year yet Links & Resources Mentioned: Author Anchor – Virtual assistants for authors; book your free discovery callKevin's Substack – Essays, insights, and creative updates from KevinKevin's Books & Main Site – Find all Kevin’s novels, podcasts, and moreWordslingerPodcast.com – Archive of all back episodesKevin's YouTube Channel – Walking Kev shorts & more video content Watch (and subscribe!) on YouTube: Key Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:00] – End of year reflections & new beginnings[00:02:12] – Relocation, flexibility, and new tech for creative work[00:02:43] – Embracing continual writing throughout the day[00:04:04] – The power of thinking as part of the writing process[00:06:08] – Letting go of toxic productivity & finding balance[00:07:56] – Career as integrated with life, not just a job[00:10:23] – The work must nourish your soul and others[00:11:43] – Taking risks, reigniting old passions, and being boldly creative[00:14:18] – Pursuing art, music, and new experiences[00:16:45] – Letting life fuel artistic output[00:18:43] – Committing to joy & the choice of happiness[00:21:01] – Story: Finding laughter during sorrow[00:26:12] – Redefining success for a portable, flexible career[00:29:02] – Community, connection, and call for listener interactionLooking for inspiration and practical guidance as you shape your writing—and your life—for 2026? Subscribe and join the Wordslinger community, and don’t forget to check out Author Anchor to level up your author business! 🔔 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    32 min

  7. 12/25/2025

    What 2025 taught me about writing

    Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Check out our sponsor: Author AnchorYou just want to write. Author Anchor matches you with an author assistant for just $7.50 per hour, so you can hand off marketing and promotion, admin tasks, advertising, editing, social media, and more. Book a free, zero-obligation discovery call now at https://authoranchor.com.Merry Christmas, slingers! In this special holiday episode, Kevin Tumlinson shares what he learned in 2025 as a writer and creative. Tune in for real-world advice on creativity, outlining, maintaining momentum, avoiding burnout, and finding joy in continual writing. Whether you’re an indie author or just looking for inspiration for your creative career, these insights can help make 2026 your best year yet! Show links: WordslingerPodcast.com — Official site for episodes and commentsKevinTumlinson.com/books — Browse Kevin’s books and support his workAuthorAnchor.com — Author assistant service (sponsor; book a discovery call!) Watch (and subscribe!) on YouTube: Key Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:00] — Holiday greetings & intro[00:01:20] — Lessons learned on outlining, pantsing, and finding your process[00:05:22] — “Because that happened, then this happened” method for propelling story[00:11:10] — Learning from Haruki Murakami: art vs. logic in storytelling[00:12:46] — James Patterson’s writing routine and overcoming burnout[00:15:21] — Embracing continual writing & making it a joyful habit[00:21:18] — Outlining as a creative sharpening stone[00:22:26] — Advice for nonfiction writers and integrating writing with life[00:24:02] — Why looking for blessings is key to winning at life[00:25:18] — Call to action: share what you’ve learned, support Kevin’s booksLooking for honest, practical writing advice and indie publishing inspiration? Subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes! 🔔 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    28 min

  8. 12/18/2025

    No One Is Watching—So Why Should You Keep Creating?

    Wordslinger Podcast, Episode 285Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com 🎯 Check out our sponsor: Author AnchorYou just want to write. Author Anchor connects you with a skilled author assistant for just $7.50/hour—let them handle marketing, admin tasks, advertising, editing, social media, and more. Book a free, zero-obligation discovery call at https://authoranchor.com. In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson dives deep into one of the hardest parts of the creative journey: keeping yourself motivated when it feels like your work isn’t having an impact. He shares hard-earned lessons from his own career, talks about reframing discouragement, and explores the difference between being “productive” and being “fruitful.” Plus, Kevin Tumlinson reflects on building real connections, benefiting from the unseen ripple effects of creative effort, and finding meaning in your work even when the rewards seem slow in coming. If you’re a writer, creator, or anyone struggling to push through the silence between feedback, this episode is for you. Show links:: * Author Anchor (https://authoranchor.com) – VA service matching authors with reliable virtual assistants * Joanna Penn’s Creative Penn Podcast (https://www.thecreativepenn.com/podcasts/) – Inspiration and advice for writers * Kevin’s Substack (https://kevintumlinson.substack.com) – Articles, updates, and personal insights Watch on YouTube (and subscribe!) Key Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:06] - “Keep Going”—Why impact matters, and why it’s hard [00:01:33] - Shifting podcast landscape and long-term value [00:02:07] - How connection and community pay off [00:03:31] - Battling discouragement and the reality of creative work [00:05:09] - Why feedback and financial returns can be slow [00:08:12] - Changing your attitude: purpose beyond quick success [00:09:59] - The power of consistency and fighting for long-term success [00:12:10] - “Fruitful vs. Productive”: A better way to frame your efforts [00:16:18] - Avoiding burnout and rebuilding with better foundations [00:18:38] - Growth, regret, and seeing how your work evolves [00:20:03] - Outlining vs. pantsing—finding what works for you [00:22:04] - Christmas message and gratitude Looking for more inspiration for your writer’s journey? Subscribe, leave a review, and hit the bell so you never miss an episode! 🔔 Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    26 min
See All (290)

4.8
out of 5
57 Ratings

About

From award-winning and bestselling author J. Kevin Tumlinson, this weekly podcast explores the stories that shape us into who we are, and shape the world into what it can become. There are interviews with authors and non-authors, deep dives into useful ideas, and solo-slinger episodes that are authentic and real, aimed at giving you the best, most honest advice about life as a creator. Every episode is a story. It's all about the story here. kevintumlinson.substack.com

Information

  • Creator
    It's all about the story here.
  • Years Active
    2014 - 2026
  • Episodes
    290
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © J. Kevin Tumlinson
  • Show Website
    The Wordslinger Podcast

You Might Also Like