The Wordslinger Podcast

It's all about the story here.
  • 4.8 (56)
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  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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

  1. 1D AGO

    Minimalist Moves: Why Experience Matters More Than Possessions

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

    37 min

  2. SEP 25

    Rethinking the Writing Process: Dictation, Flash Fiction, and Speculative Fiction

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

    27 min

  3. SEP 4

    Twelve Years of Wordslinger: What Podcasting Has Taught Me

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

    27 min

  4. AUG 21

    How I’m Blending Indie and Traditional Publishing for Greater Success

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

    30 min

  5. AUG 7

    Fiction Faster: How Dictation Changed Sarah Elisabeth Sawyer’s Writing Process

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

    1h 3m

  6. JUL 24

    The Author Who Inspired Me Most

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

    38 min

  7. JUN 19

    Navigating Audio, Entrepreneurship, and Networking for Authors with Tim Heller

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

    1h 7m

  8. JUN 12

    Subversive Art and Indie Publishing with Johnny B. Truant

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

    1h 20m
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4.8
out of 5
56 Ratings

About

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

Information

  • Creator
    It's all about the story here.
  • Years Active
    2014 - 2025
  • Episodes
    272
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © J. Kevin Tumlinson
  • Show Website
    The Wordslinger Podcast

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