Happy Thanksgiving, slingers.This week’s Wordslinger Podcast is all about gratitude, found family, creative recovery, and some big updates for writers and entrepreneurs. I’m sharing what this year has really been like—personally and professionally—and what’s coming next for the podcast, my books, and this growing community.If you’re a writer, creative, or entrepreneur working your way through burnout, rebuilding your momentum, or trying to find your people… this one’s for you.

✨ Links Mentioned in the Episode

My personal YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/kevintumlinsonThe Kevin Show (playlist): https://youtube.com/kevintumlinson (see playlists section)My Substack: https://kevintumlinson.substack.comMy books: https://kevinTumlinson.com/booksCurated Shop (product stories + affiliates): https://kevintumlinson.com/curatedWordslinger Podcast on YouTube: https://youtube.com/wordslingerpodcastWriters, Ink Podcast: https://writersinkpodcast.com

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🕒 Timestamps

Use these as chapters so viewers can jump exactly where they want:00:00 — Welcome to the Thanksgiving Episode00:29 — Why this episode dropped early01:00 — My personal YouTube channel & Substack workflow02:00 — Should Substack be my website?03:20 — The “Curated” Shop and how it works06:11 — Thanksgiving plans & found family07:36 — Family, siblings, and what “family” really means08:58 — Gratitude for a year of growth (and grief)09:45 — This year in writing: books, burnout, and rebuilding10:20 — Film & streaming interest in Kotler and Evergreen11:39 — A career opportunity I can’t announce… yet12:14 — Writers, Ink news & simulcasting plans14:00 — My idea for a writers’ podcast network16:43 — The value of outside perspectives for writers18:19 — Why I build things: tools, platforms, opportunities19:26 — A look ahead at 2026 changes20:33 — How Word Slinger and Writers, Ink will fit together21:43 — A personal message: gratitude, hope, and found family22:29 — Final thoughts & Thanksgiving wishes

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, advertising, social media, and more. Book a free, zero-obligation discovery call now at https://authoranchor.com.

In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson dives deep into the world of scams targeting authors, artists, and creatives. From predatory legal firms to shady “publishers” with AI-generated websites and offers too good to be true, Kevin shares personal stories, red flags to watch for, and practical strategies to keep your money—and your work—safe. Whether you’re a new writer hoping to be discovered or a seasoned pro, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the publishing and creative landscape as scams become more sophisticated and pervasive.

Show links:

* Author Anchor (authoranchor.com) — Virtual assistant service for authors

* Draft2Digital (draft2digital.com) — Ebook distribution platform

* PublishDrive (publishdrive.com) — Ebook publishing & distribution

* Reedsy (reedsy.com) — Find trusted editors, designers, and book professionals

* 99designs (99designs.com) — Professional cover design and more

* LegalShield (legalshield.com) — Affordable legal services for contracts/review

* LegalZoom (legalzoom.com) — Legal support and contract review online

* Writer’s Digest (writersdigest.com) — Publishing news, Writer’s Market guides and agent info

* Wordslinger Podcast (wordslingerpodcast.com) — More episodes, contact, and resources

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Important Topics & Timestamps:

[00:00:05] – Welcome & episode overview

[00:00:25] – Why scams are a growing threat

[00:01:14] – Fake publishers & scam tactics

[00:01:59] – Kevin’s personal experience falling for a book scam

[00:03:33] – IRS debt scam: emotional manipulation explained

[00:06:04] – How scammers exploit dreams and fears

[00:08:56] – AI-powered scams: cloned voices, fake Zoom calls, and impersonations

[00:10:23] – How legitimate publishing works vs. scam warning signs

[00:13:16] – Everyday scam attempts targeting authors

[00:16:03] – Fake websites, hijacked business names, and AI-generated “staff”

[00:18:46] – Myth of “being discovered”—real path to success

[00:19:59] – Why contracts and legal reviews matter

[00:21:09] – Solar panel scam and red flags to look for

[00:22:19] – Actionable advice: Avoid scams, invest in trusted guides & services

[00:23:59] – Resource recommendations: where your money should go

[00:24:44] – Protecting your creative work and passion from predators

[00:25:27] – How to reach out to Kevin for scam advice

[00:26:15] – Legitimate service recommendations (Reedsy, 99designs, etc.)

[00:27:48] – Closing thoughts, support, and a call to subscribe

Looking for more creative protection and publishing wisdom? Like, share, and subscribe here on YouTube, and hit the notification bell to stay informed on future episodes! 🔔

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 tasks, promotion, editing, social media, and more. Book a free, zero-obligation discovery call now at https://authoranchor.com.

In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson sits down with accountant and author advocate Seth Norris to demystify the “business” side of the author journey. They dive into common money mistakes, why most authors avoid talking taxes, and how to turn scary finances into manageable habits. Whether you’re new to direct sales, seeking smarter tax strategies, or need systems to manage your indie career, this episode is packed with practical advice—plus an inside look at Author Unlimited and resources for building a sustainable author business!

Show links:

* Author CPA – Main hub for Seth’s services, newsletter signup, and YouTube channel

* Author Unlimited Community – Community & resources for authors on finances & systems

* Profit First (Book) – The money-management method discussed in this episode

* Seth’s Substack – Mindset, creative business tips, and the “week in Seth’s head”

* School (Community Platform) – Platform used by Author Unlimited

* Author Anchor – Author task and marketing assistant service (sponsor link)

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I Asked a CPA Why Authors Struggle With Money—His Answer Shocked Me

Important Topics & Timestamps:

[00:01:05] – Seth’s journey into author conferences[00:02:05] – Turning accounting skills into author niche (Author CPA)[00:03:09] – What does an “Author CPA” actually do?[00:04:53] – Trends & money mistakes indie authors make[00:07:00] – Hidden costs of direct sales & royalty comparisons[00:09:44] – Helping authors set up bookkeeping and automations[00:11:38] – The surprising power of authentic, low-fuss YouTube videos[00:15:42] – What “Profit First” means for authors[00:22:16] – Simple formula for setting aside tax money[00:24:46] – Building Author Unlimited (community for author business systems & finances)[00:27:31] – Getting the most out of community, templates, and automation[00:30:11] – Seth’s Substack: creativity, mindset, and life as an author CPA

Looking for more no-nonsense business tips for your author career? Subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay up on the latest strategies! 🔔

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com

🎯 Check out our sponsor: Author Anchor

You just want to write. Author Anchor matches you with a personal assistant for just $7.50 per hour, so you can delegate marketing, admin tasks, advertising, editing, social media, and more. Book a free, zero-obligation discovery call now at https://authoranchor.com.

In this special solo episode, Kevin Tumlinson broadcasts from Las Vegas during the Author Nation 2025 conference! With a raspy conference voice and coffee in hand, Kevin shares insights on the true value of attending author conferences—from networking and forming meaningful industry connections, to serving your community and embracing discomfort for personal growth. He offers actionable advice for writers hoping to make the most out of conference experiences, discusses the art of being a connector, and reflects on how kindness can generate unexpected opportunities.

Show links:

* Author Nation (authornation.live) – Event and ticket info for conferences

* Author Anchor (authoranchor.com) – VA service connecting authors with skilled virtual assistants

* Dave Cullen YouTube (youtube.com/@computingforever) – Computing Forever channel

* Wordslinger Podcast YouTube (youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast) – Subscribe for exclusive video episodes

* Wordslinger Podcast Archive (wordslingerpodcast.com) – Listen to all past episodes

SUBSCRIBE AND WATCH ON YOUTUBE

Why Every Writer Needs to Attend Conferences (Even When It Feels Useless)

Important Topics & Timestamps:

[00:00:00] – Conference intro & Vegas updates[00:01:16] – Details on Author Nation events and book signing[00:03:33] – The benefits of conference attendance[00:05:04] – Networking and refining your professional circle[00:09:26] – The value of connecting others[00:13:45] – Embracing discomfort and change of scenery[00:15:02] – Doing something kind for a friend[00:22:09] – Immersing yourself while traveling[00:23:43] – Community and collaboration at conferences[00:26:10] – Importance of serving the author community[00:27:53] – Sponsor plug: Author Anchor[00:30:24] – YouTube subscriber call-to-action & show support

Looking for more inspiration and insight for your writing career? Subscribe and hit the notification bell on YouTube—help us reach 1,000 subscribers and keep Wordslinger going strong! 🔔

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, taking care of marketing, admin, ads, editing, social media, and more! Book your free, no-obligation discovery call now at https://authoranchor.com.

In this special episode, Kevin Tumlinson sits down with fellow podcaster, author, and creative entrepreneur Donn King to unpack how to get all your creative work done—even when life is overflowing. They share personal stories about balancing writing, podcasting, family responsibilities, and unexpected challenges, revealing how true creativity thrives not despite the chaos, but often because of it. If you’re struggling with time management, work-life balance, or redefining your “career,” you won’t want to miss this thoughtful, inspiring conversation.

Show links:

* Donn King’s Site (donnking.com) – Learn more about Donn’s work and podcasting

* Creating While Caring: https://DonnKing.com/CreatingWhileCaring

* All Donn’s books: https://DonnKing.com/Books

* Publishing services: https://HiddenMentor.com/

* Wordslinger Podcast Substack (wordslingerpodcast.com) – Follow Kevin for updates & a free ebook

* Kevin’s Indie Spotlight at Writer’s Digest (https://www.writersdigest.com/j-kevin-tumlinson-effective-writing-avoiding-burnout) – Featured interview

* Author Anchor (authoranchor.com) – Connect with a virtual assistant for authors

* Wordslinger Podcast YouTube Channel (youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast) – Subscribe for more podcast episodes

* Author Nation Event (authornation.live) – Where Kevin will be appearing in-person

Watch on YouTube

Important Topics & Timestamps:

[00:00:00] – Welcome, intro, and Donn King’s background[00:01:09] – Handling creative work with a full plate[00:04:16] – The myth of free time and the “goldfish principle”[00:07:05] – Redefining ‘career’ for writers and creatives[00:08:55] – Seasons of opportunity and embracing life’s transitions[00:09:27] – Kevin’s events: Author Nation & Reader Nation[00:11:03] – Kevin featured in Writer’s Digest Indie Spotlight[00:12:31] – How to connect: Substack, YouTube, podcast apps[00:13:10] – Closing thoughts and what’s next for Wordslinger

— Looking for more inspiration and practical tips on writing, publishing, and thriving as a creative? Subscribe and hit the notification bell to never miss an episode! 🔔

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 tasks, advertising, editing, social media, and more. Book a free, zero-obligation discovery call now at https://authoranchor.com.

In this episode, host Kevin Tumlinson goes deep on the theme of being real and authentic—both in writing and life. Kevin shares his personal journey of downsizing, embracing minimalism, and letting go of unnecessary “stuff.” He talks about optimizing work with streamlined tech, the value of authentic connections, and what Gen Z is seeking in media. Plus, there’s a frank discussion of how authentic experiences and meaningful relationships can be cultivated in today’s world—and why Kevin believes it’s time to focus on what truly edifies us.

Show links:

* Author Anchor – VA service connecting authors with skilled virtual assistants

* Kevin’s Substack – Regular updates and insights, including Wordslinger Podcast content

* Wordslinger Podcast – Home base for the show, hosted on Substack

Watch on YouTube

🔑 Important Topics & Timestamps:

[00:00:00] – Introduction & authenticity[00:00:30] – Downsizing & minimalism journey[00:04:08] – Pricing possessions, sunk cost fallacy[00:06:29] – Tech talk: Using iPad for everything[00:11:53] – What Gen Z wants: Real, authentic media[00:13:10] – The experience of podcasting & listener connection[00:17:54] – Discoverability & authentic marketing[00:20:19] – Complaining vs. changing & positive reviews[00:24:23] – “Did Not Finish”: Navigating negative feedback[00:25:12] – Experiences vs. stuff: Minimalism & edification[00:31:19] – Experiences over ownership[00:33:07] – Upcoming interviews & events

Looking for more writing and publishing insights?Subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes! 🔔

―――Want to connect in person? Catch Kevin at Author Nation and Reader Nation in Las Vegas, Nov. 3–8!

#Authenticity #Minimalism #WritingLife #WordslingerPodcast #BookMarketing #AuthorCommunity

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com

🎯 Check out our sponsor: ProWritingAidSupercharge your writing with ProWritingAid—your all-in-one writing coach, style editor, and grammar checker. Plus, they’re the driving force behind the brand new “Novel November” event, helping you reach your writing goals faster! Learn more and kickstart your writing at https://bit.ly/novnov25.

In this episode, host Kevin Tumlinson dives deep into creative workflow and productivity for writers and creatives—covering everything from embracing minimalism to refining your tech setup and managing side projects. Kevin shares his process for balancing business planning, writing habits, and staying productive even when life gets busy. Whether you’re decluttering your studio or seeking the ultimate mobile writing setup, there’s inspiration and practical tips waiting for you here!

Show links:

* Novel November registration (bit.ly/novnov25) – Join the new month-long novel writing event replacing NaNoWriMo; access sessions with bestselling authors, prizes, and a supportive community!

* Kevin’s Substack (kevintumlinson.substack.com) – Get Kevin’s thoughts, podcast updates, and more in your inbox.

* Wordslinger YouTube (youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast) – Watch the show and subscribe for video content.

* Kevin’s YouTube Channel (youtube.com/kevintumlinson) – Follow Kevin’s personal channel for more insights and behind-the-scenes.

Watch on YouTube

⏰ Key Topics & Timestamps:

[00:00:22] – Announcing Novel November & ProWritingAid sponsorship[00:02:14] – Minimalism, decluttering, and clothing downsizing[00:05:13] – Upgrading tech, iPad vs. laptop workflow for writers[00:14:18] – Business planning, “Throughline” & Novelton Bookshop concepts[00:16:05] – Balancing business projects with consistent creative writing[00:20:48] – Outlining, quick notes system, and portable writing productivity[00:24:49] – Financial minimalism: budgeting, investing, and asset thinking[00:34:10] – Mentorship, choosing your influences & the value of podcasts[00:38:27] – Where Wordslinger is heading: minimalism, performance, tech topics

Ready to streamline your workflow and sharpen your creativity? Subscribe and hit the bell for fresh episodes every week. Have questions or ideas? Drop them in the comments or email Kevin—your input could shape future shows! 🔔

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.

In this episode, host Kevin Tumlinson dives deep into the power of perspective, sharing his personal journey through downsizing, letting go of the old to make way for the new, and how shifting routines can spark creative breakthroughs. Kevin offers candid reflections on the emotional challenges of parting with cherished possessions—including his legendary hand-built writing desk—and how embracing change leads to more freedom and growth, both as a writer and in daily life.

Tune in for actionable insights on:

* Streamlining your workspace for creativity and flexibility

* Overcoming the discomfort of letting go and welcoming new opportunities

* The psychology of attachment and forming healthier habits around possessions

* Creative inspirations behind Kevin’s current writing projects

* How changing your environment can reshape your mindset and writing process

Show links:

* Author Anchor (https://authoranchor.com) – Virtual assistant service for authors. Book your free discovery call now.

* Kevin’s Facebook Marketplace – Browse items mentioned for sale (search Kevin Tumlinson on Facebook Marketplace).

* WordslingerPodcast.com – More episodes and resources.

Watch on YouTube:

Important Topics & Timestamps:

[00:00:29] - Kevin reveals changes in his workspace and the decision to downsize[00:03:43] - Journaling, morning routines, and discovering new ergonomic setups[00:06:51] - Travel plans, van life, and shifting from full-time road living[00:08:24] - Letting go of tech and rethinking what’s essential[00:09:13] - Emotional attachment and the value of letting go[00:14:19] - Garage sale stories & practical tips for downsizing[00:21:10] - Life lessons on ego, identity, and the freedom of decluttering[00:23:57] - The challenge of letting go of beloved books[00:24:42] - Writing update: Library of Unwritten Books & speculative fiction[00:27:56] - Listener shout-outs and the value of community encouragement

Looking for more writing and publishing insights? Subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes! 🔔