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! 🔔

Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com

🎯 Check out our sponsor: Authors AIReady to level up your manuscript? Authors AI’s Marlowe Pro gives you developmental editing feedback powered by advanced, pattern-recognizing AI. Get a full report for less than $30 or subscribe for ongoing insights. Wordslinger listeners get 25% off any purchase with code SLINGER at checkout—visit https://authors.ai.

In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson is joined by Alessandra Torre and JD Lasica for a deep-dive into the evolving world of artificial intelligence in authorship. The trio unpacks the ethics and uses of AI for writers, explores the difference between analytical and generative AI, and offers clarity on how AI can support, not replace, the creative process. If you’re curious about AI’s role in book development—or just want practical tips on ethical engagement—this conversation is for you.

Show links:

* Authors AI (authors.ai) – AI-driven feedback and editing for authors

* Marlowe Pro (authors.ai/marlowe-pro) – Advanced AI-powered manuscript critique

* Use code SLINGER for 25% off sitewide

Watch on YouTube (and subscribe!):

Important Topics & Timestamps:

[00:01:18] – Meet Authors AI: Origin story and Marlowe explained

[00:06:25] – Marlowe’s main use case: Developmental manuscript critique

[00:08:13] – Ethics & industry reactions: AI acceptance, resistance, and class actions

[00:12:02] – Analytical vs. generative AI: What authors need to know

[00:14:17] – Where ethics get fuzzy (translation, narration, disclosure)

[00:19:08] – How Marlowe uses AI differently (pattern recognition, rights-cleared corpus)

[00:23:17] – Publisher boundaries: Where traditional houses draw the AI line

[00:24:11] – Do authors need to disclose AI use?

[00:25:49] – How to access Marlowe + exclusive Wordslinger discount

Subscribe for more author insights, ethical debates, and the latest in writing technology. Smash that notification bell so you 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 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, Kevin Tumlinson sits down with thriller author Luke Richardson for an energizing discussion on writing adventure fiction, weaving travel experiences into stories, and mastering the art of sensory detail. Tune in for practical tips on engaging readers, finding work-life balance as a writer, and the inside scoop on plotting vs. pantsing your next book. Plus, hear more about Luke’s Eden Black series and exciting podcast and travel plans!

Show links:

* Luke Richardson Official Site (https://lukerichardsonauthor.com) — Explore Luke’s adventure books and podcast.

* Author Anchor (https://authoranchor.com) — VA service connecting authors with skilled virtual assistants.

* Writers Ink Podcast (https://writersinkpodcast.com) — Roundtable writing advice from pro authors.

* Kevin’s Substack (https://kevintumlinson.substack.com) — Updates and writing insights from Kevin Tumlinson.

WATCH (AND SUBSCRIBE) ON YOUTUBE:

Key Topics & Timestamps:

[00:00:04] - Introduction: Garage sale shenanigans & Wordslinger welcome

[00:03:32] - Luke Richardson on travel, adventure writing, and series updates

[00:07:14] - Inspirations: Indiana Jones, Lara Croft, and Dan Brown

[00:09:17] - Travel as creative fuel & using local experiences in fiction

[00:13:07] - How to integrate all five senses into your storytelling

[00:17:19] - Writing tips: Avoiding info dumps and engaging reader modalities

[00:19:43] - Staying focused: Productivity, work habits, and burnout

[00:22:16] - Word count targets vs. process-based writing routines

[00:26:01] - Plotter vs. Pantser: The eternal writer’s debate

[00:31:33] - Luke’s podcast: The Adventure Story Podcast and upcoming projects

[00:33:25] - Writing fiction that becomes real: The “zeitgeist” phenomenon

[00:35:47] - Personal notes: Repurposing, decision fatigue, and creative repurposing

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

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

Watch on YouTube:

🕒 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

Watch on YouTube

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)

Watch on YouTube

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! 🔔