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! 🔔

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!

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.

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!

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

🎯 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!

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! 🔔

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