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 writer, creator, and creative entrereneur. Every episode is a story. It's all about the story here.

  1. 2D AGO

    The Problem with Draft2Digital’s New Policy

    Draft2Digital just made a major change—and a lot of indie authors aren’t happy about it. In today’s Wordslinger 10-Shot, I break down the new Draft2Digital fees, what they actually mean, and why I believe this policy creates a serious problem for the very authors the platform was built to support. This isn’t outrage for the sake of outrage. It’s a real conversation about fairness, access, and the future of indie publishing in an era of AI-driven content overload. If you’re a writer, creator, or creative entrepreneur, this directly impacts you. Let’s dig in. What Draft2Digital’s new fees actually are Why the $12 annual fee is sparking backlash The real issue: who pays (and who doesn’t) How this affects new and low-earning authors The AI “slop” problem—and why this is happening now Practical advice on what you should do next 00:00 – The big Draft2Digital announcement01:10 – Breaking down the new fees02:15 – Why the optics are a problem04:20 – Who really ends up paying06:45 – The “tax on low earners” issue09:00 – AI spam and the real reason behind the change12:30 – Why this could push authors away15:10 – My stance (and why it matters)18:00 – What authors should do right now20:30 – Final thoughts on the future of indie publishing 🌐 Wordslinger Podcasthttps://wordslingerpodcast.com ✍️ ProWriting Aid (my go-to editing tool)https://tidd.ly/3NCdlk5 📖 Draft2Digitalhttps://draft2digital.com/wordslinger ⚓ AuthorAnchorhttps://authoranchor.com 📘 My books & author sitehttps://kevintumlinson.com 📰 Join me on Substackhttps://kevintumlinson.substack.com If you're serious about building a career as a writer—whether indie, traditional, or hybrid—this channel is where you’ll get real talk, hard truths, and practical strategies to help you succeed. 👉 Subscribe now for guidance on writing, publishing, and building a sustainable author business. What do YOU think about Draft2Digital’s new policy?Fair move… or a step in the wrong direction? Drop your thoughts in the comments. I read them. #indieauthors #selfpublishing #writingcommunity #draft2digital #amwriting 🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:⏱️ Timestamps:📚 Resources & Links Mentioned:🚀 Want More Like This?💬 Join the Conversation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    45 min

  2. APR 9

    Traditional Publishing Is Breaking (why I chose Indie-first)

    Traditional publishing is shifting… fast. And if you're a writer trying to decide your path, the rules you’ve been told may already be outdated. In this episode of the Wordslinger Podcast, I break down the real differences between traditional and indie publishing—and why I’ve chosen an indie-first strategy in today’s market. This isn’t theory. This is based on hard lessons, real contracts, and what I’m seeing happen right now across the industry.  If you’re serious about building a writing career that actually works, this is a conversation you need to hear. 00:00 – Introduction & upcoming book launch01:00 – Writing without a “perfect” setup03:20 – The publishing industry is changing (AI, disruption, uncertainty)04:30 – Should you traditionally publish first?06:00 – The hidden benefits of traditional publishing07:30 – The validation trap (and why it matters)08:00 – The “Shy Girl” controversy & industry response10:00 – Why AI detection tools don’t work11:30 – Where traditional publishing is failing13:00 – Publishers that are adapting (and why it matters)15:00 – The real cost of traditional publishing18:30 – Marketing reality: it’s still on YOU21:30 – Indie success stories (The Martian, viral breakouts)23:30 – Why indie-first is a powerful strategy25:00 – Building your platform (your true leverage)27:00 – Contracts, leverage, and protecting your rights30:00 – Ethics clauses, AI clauses, and what to watch for32:30 – My personal strategy moving forward35:30 – Final thoughts: choosing your path 🌐 Wordslinger Podcast: https://wordslingerpodcast.com✍️ ProWriting Aid: https://tidd.ly/3NCdlk5📚 Draft2Digital: https://draft2digital.com/wordslinger🤝 Author Anchor: https://authoranchor.com📖 My books & website: https://kevintumlinson.com📝 Join me on Substack: https://kevintumlinson.substack.com The real pros and cons of traditional vs indie publishing Why “getting a deal” isn’t the finish line How to think about publishing as a long-term strategy The role of platform, leverage, and ownership in your career What most writers misunderstand about making money from books If you're a writer, creator, or creative entrepreneur—and you want real, no-BS guidance on building a sustainable writing career—this channel is for you. 👉 Hit subscribe and join a community focused on writing smarter, publishing better, and building something that lasts. Which path are you on right now—indie, traditional, or hybrid?Drop a comment and tell me your strategy. ⏱️ Timecodes🚀 Resources & Links💡 What You’ll Learn🔔 Subscribe for More💬 Let’s Talk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    44 min

  3. MAR 26

    Your Author Platform Matters More Than Your Book

    Your author platform isn’t optional anymore—it’s everything. In today’s shifting landscape of AI, social media uncertainty, and changing reader behavior, the writers who win aren’t just the ones with great books… they’re the ones with a direct connection to their audience. In this Wordslinger 10-Shot, Kevin breaks down what an author platform really is, why it matters more than ever, and how you can start building one that actually works—without relying on platforms you don’t control. If you’re serious about writing, publishing, and building a long-term career, this is the conversation you need to hear. 🔑 What You’ll Learn What an author platform actually is (and what it isn’t) Why email lists still dominate everything else The hidden danger of relying on social media alone How AI is reshaping storytelling—and why that’s an opportunity Why authenticity and imperfection are your greatest assets The real goal: building an audience, not just selling books ⏱️ Timecodes 00:00 – Welcome + Pennsylvania (pun intended) 01:10 – Why Wordslinger 10-Shots exist 04:58 – What is an author platform? 06:37 – Why email lists still win 07:25 – The future of social media (and why it’s risky) 10:26 – Is writing dying? (AI + readership myths) 13:03 – Why physical books are making a comeback 15:42 – The rise of authenticity in a digital world 18:38 – Why imperfection beats AI 20:21 – The future of storytelling 23:33 – AI-generated content vs human connection 25:52 – The real focus: build your audience 🚀 Resources & Links 👉 Wordslinger Podcast: https://wordslingerpodcast.com 👉 Draft2Digital: https://draft2digital.com/wordslinger 👉 Author Anchor: https://authoranchor.com 👉 Kevin’s books & website: https://kevintumlinson.com 👉 Join Kevin on Substack: https://kevintumlinson.substack.com 💡 Final Thought Your book is the product… but your platform is the engine. Build the connection first, and everything else gets easier. 🔔 Subscribe for More If you’re a writer, creator, or creative entrepreneur looking to level up your craft, grow your audience, and build a sustainable career… 👉 Subscribe now—this channel is your hub for real-world, no-fluff guidance on writing, publishing, and thriving as a creator. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    34 min

  4. MAR 19

    You Don’t Need More Time—You Need This Instead

    Think you don’t have time to write? Think again. In today’s Wordslinger 10-Shot, I’m breaking down the real reason most writers struggle to finish their books—and it has nothing to do with time. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, stuck, or like your writing life is constantly being derailed by everything else going on… this one’s for you. I’ve written in hotel rooms, coffee shops, cars, and chaos—and I’ve learned something powerful along the way: the writers who succeed aren’t the ones with more time… they’re the ones who show up differently. Let’s talk about how to make that shift. ⏱️ TIMECODES 00:00 – Writing in chaos (and why it matters) 01:30 – The myth of “not enough time” 03:10 – The real power of consistency 05:00 – Why word count doesn’t matter (the way you think) 07:15 – Writing is art and business 09:30 – Stop overwhelming yourself (one skill at a time) 12:00 – The “juggling” method for writers 14:30 – Process vs flexibility (why you need both) 17:00 – Avoiding burnout and building momentum 20:00 – Transferable skills that make you a better writer 22:30 – Final takeaway: how to actually move forward 🧠 KEY TAKEAWAY You don’t need more time—you need consistency, clarity, and a process that works for your life. Master that, and everything changes. 🔗 RESOURCES & LINKS 🌐 Wordslinger Podcast https://wordslingerpodcast.com 📚 Draft2Digital (my preferred publishing platform) https://draft2digital.com/wordslinger 🤝 Author Anchor (get help with your author business) https://authoranchor.com 📖 My books & full catalog https://kevintumlinson.com ✍️ Join me on Substack https://kevintumlinson.substack.com 🚀 FOR WRITERS & CREATORS If you’re serious about building a writing career—finishing your books, growing your audience, and turning your creativity into something meaningful—you’re in the right place. 👉 Subscribe to the channel for straight talk, proven strategies, and real-world insight into writing, publishing, and the business of being an author. No fluff. No gimmicks. Just what actually works. Got a question about writing, publishing, or building your author career? Drop it in the comments—I read them, and your question might turn into the next video. Let’s get to work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    34 min

  5. MAR 12

    The Writing Trick That Unstuck My Novel

    Ever hit that moment in a story where everything just… stops? You’re tens of thousands of words into a novel and suddenly the story feels stuck. The momentum disappears. The next chapter won’t come. The whole thing feels like a pill stuck in your throat. In today’s Wordslinger 10-Shot, J. Kevin Tumlinson shares the writing breakthrough that helped him restart a novel he abandoned nearly two years ago—and the surprisingly simple storytelling technique that unlocked the entire book. The answer wasn’t rewriting the premise or scrapping the story. It was adding a subplot. In this episode, Kevin breaks down how B-stories and secondary plotlines can relieve pressure on your main story, deepen character relationships, and create the pacing that keeps readers turning pages. He also shares lessons about stepping away from a book when you're stuck—and why professional writers always come back to finish the story. If you're a novelist, storyteller, or creative entrepreneur trying to push through a stalled project, this episode will give you a practical way to get your momentum back. • Why writers get stuck in the middle of a novel• The storytelling technique that unlocked Kevin’s stalled book• How subplots improve pacing and tension• The real purpose of a B-story in fiction• Using secondary characters to deepen your narrative• Why stepping away from a manuscript can sometimes save it• The difference between amateur writers and professionals 0:00 – When a story feels “stuck”1:10 – Why this novel stalled for nearly two years2:35 – Coming back to the manuscript with fresh eyes3:50 – The subplot breakthrough6:05 – How B-stories improve pacing and tension9:10 – The importance of anticipation in storytelling11:40 – Learning from movies and TV subplots14:10 – Avoiding clunky exposition in dialogue17:20 – Giving readers breathing room in your story19:00 – The “House moment” storytelling technique21:20 – Why rewriting makes you look brilliant24:00 – When it’s okay to step away from a book26:00 – The difference between amateurs and pros27:00 – Writing as both art and business Wordslinger Podcasthttps://wordslingerpodcast.com Draft2Digitalhttps://draft2digital.com/wordslinger AuthorAnchorhttps://authoranchor.com Find Kevin and his bookshttps://kevintumlinson.com Join Kevin on Substackhttps://kevintumlinson.substack.com If you're serious about becoming a better writer and building a successful publishing career, this channel is for you. The Wordslinger Podcast is where writers, creatives, and storytellers come for practical advice on writing craft, publishing, marketing, and the business of being an author. Subscribe and join a community of writers committed to telling better stories and building lasting careers. 👉 Subscribe here and start your journey:https://youtube.com/@wordslingerpodcast Have a question about writing, publishing, or storytelling?Leave it in the comments. Your question might become the topic of a future Wordslinger episode. And remember… The world needs your stories. In This EpisodeTimecodesResources MentionedSubscribe for More Writing and Publishing Insights Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    35 min

  6. MAR 6

    3 Writing Habits That Work Better Than a Perfect Writing Routine

    Most writers are waiting for the perfect writing routine. The perfect desk.The perfect coffee shop.The perfect time of day. But here’s the truth: that routine probably doesn’t exist. In this episode of the Wordslinger Podcast, J. Kevin Tumlinson shares the three writing habits that have helped him stay productive through travel, career changes, conferences, van life, and the chaos of everyday life. Instead of chasing the ideal routine, Kevin explains how systems, consistency, and adaptability can keep your writing moving forward no matter what life throws at you.  If you're a writer, creator, or creative entrepreneur trying to stay productive in a busy world, this episode will help you rethink how you approach your writing habits. 0:00 – Welcome to the Wordslinger Podcast1:45 – Why the “perfect writing routine” is a myth3:40 – Habit #1: Build systems instead of routines6:10 – Habit #2: Focus on consistency, not word counts9:05 – Habit #3: Learn to write anywhere12:30 – The “write anywhere” mindset15:30 – Writing with your phone, notebooks, or anything available18:45 – Why constraints make you a stronger writer21:00 – Adapting to new environments and life changes24:00 – Final thoughts for writers who struggle with routine Visit the Wordslinger Podcast home base:https://wordslingerpodcast.com Publish your books with Draft2Digital:https://draft2digital.com/wordslinger Find author support through Author Anchor:https://authoranchor.com Find Kevin, his books, and writing resources:https://kevintumlinson.com Join Kevin on Substack for essays and insights on writing, creativity, and storytelling:https://kevintumlinson.substack.com If you're a writer trying to build a career in publishing, storytelling, or creative entrepreneurship, this channel is for you. Subscribe for practical advice on: • Writing craft• Publishing and indie author strategy• Productivity and creative habits• Building a sustainable writing career• Interviews with bestselling authors and industry experts 👉 Subscribe now and join the Wordslinger community. #writingtips #writerslife #amwriting #indieauthors #creativeentrepreneur #wordslignerpodcast In This EpisodeResources for WritersSubscribe for More Writing Guidance Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    34 min

  7. FEB 12

    Most People Don’t Actually Want to Be Writers

    Episode 293 A hard truth: Most people don’t actually want to be writers.They want to have written. There’s a difference. In today’s Wordslinger Podcast, we’re talking about what it really takes to be a writer — the long game, the lonely work, the unpaid seasons, and the identity shift that separates writers from dreamers. If you’ve ever wondered: Am I really cut out for this? Why does writing feel harder than I expected? Should I keep going? This episode is for you. Because writers write.Even when it’s inconvenient.Even when it costs money.Even when nobody’s watching. 00:00 – The uncomfortable truth about wanting to be a writer01:40 – Writers vs. Authors (the critical distinction)03:30 – The fantasy vs. the reality of writing05:00 – Why ideas alone are worthless (execution matters)07:45 – The danger of “write my idea” requests10:20 – The myth of overnight success14:00 – Would you still write if it never made money?16:45 – The power of the writing community21:00 – Practical strategy: play the long game24:30 – Stability, creativity, and Maslow’s hierarchy26:00 – Why writing full-time isn’t always easier Writer vs Author mindset Creative discipline Long-term publishing strategy AI and authorship Intellectual property pitfalls Making money as a writer Writing for free vs writing for income Sustainable creative careers 🎙 Wordslinger Podcast Home:https://wordslingerpodcast.com 📚 Publish Wide with Draft2Digital:https://draft2digital.com/wordslinger ⚓ AuthorAnchor (Real Human Support for Authors):https://authoranchor.com ✍️ Find Kevin & His Books:https://kevintumlinson.com 📰 Join Kevin on Substack:https://kevintumlinson.substack.com If you’re serious about: Becoming a better writer Publishing strategically Building a sustainable creative business Playing the long game instead of chasing hype You’re in the right place. This channel is for writers who are willing to do the work — who care about craft, community, and building something real. 👉 Hit Subscribe and join the Slingers.New episodes, 10-Shots, and practical publishing insights every week. ⏱️ Timecodes🧠 Key Topics Covered🔗 Helpful Resources & Links🚀 Subscribe for the Best Guidance on Your Writing & Publishing Journey Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    32 min

  8. FEB 5

    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

    30 min
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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 writer, creator, and creative entrereneur. Every episode is a story. It's all about the story here.

Information

  • Creator
    It's all about the story here.
  • Years Active
    2014 - 2026
  • Episodes
    297
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © J. Kevin Tumlinson
  • Show Website
    The Wordslinger Podcast

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