Wordslinger Podcast, Episode 290Discover more at Wordslinger Podcast, Episode 290

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In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson explores how creativity, storytelling, and human expression can stay ahead in a world where AI is becoming increasingly capable of recognizing and replicating patterns. Drawing on personal experiences and musings about the evolving writing industry, [Speaker A] discusses the need for creators to disrupt patterns, break formulas, and seek authenticity that machines can’t replicate. Whether packing for a big move during a Texas freeze or reflecting on the changing landscape of publishing, it’s a thought-provoking look at the future of storytelling.

Show links:

* Writers’ Inc. Podcast (writersincpodcast.com) – [Speaker A]’s other show, featuring author interviews and discussion

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

Watch (and subscribe!) on YouTube:

Important Topics & Timestamps:

[00:00:01] – Introduction, Texas freeze & backdrop reveal

[00:01:08] – Packing, moving stories, and storage adventures

[00:02:27] – Weather, bitter cold & living with unpredictability

[00:03:20] – Writers’ Inc. Podcast mention

[00:04:18] – Why [Speaker A] shifted away from interviews on Wordslinger

[00:05:10] – Fun past podcast formats & spontaneous storytelling

[00:06:33] – How AI impacts creativity and the formulaic nature of writing

[00:10:17] – Pattern recognition as a human survival trait

[00:14:27] – The evolution of publishing & breaking old systems

[00:19:01] – Reinventing storytelling beyond formulas

[00:22:36] – Art movements that disrupted patterns in history

[00:23:38] – Authenticity, emotion, and embracing the soul in creative work

[00:25:07] – Wrap up, weather preps, and call to create with purpose

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

Wordslinger Podcast, Episode 289 – “Analog Rebellion”Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com

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In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson takes us deep into the heart of the “Analog Rebellion”—today’s growing movement to reclaim physical media and hands-on experiences in a world dominated by digital subscriptions, licensing, and relentless algorithms. From the resurgence of vinyl records to journaling by hand, Kevin shares personal stories and cultural insights on why tactile experiences and true ownership matter now more than ever.Tune in for a reflection on why so many are ditching the cloud, getting picky with their collections, and escaping the digital jail bars for creative freedom and authenticity.

Show Links:

* The Artisan Author by Johnny B. Truant - Book for artisan-minded authors: https://www.amazon.com/Artisan-Author-Johnny-B-Truant/dp/B09X5ZV56L

* Author Anchor (authoranchor.com) - VA service for authors: https://authoranchor.com

* Kevin’s Substack for updates and insights:

Watch (and Subscribe!) on YouTube:

Key Topics & Timestamps

[00:00:00] – Introduction: The “Analog Rebellion”[00:02:09] – Kevin’s lost vinyl collection story[00:05:15] – Renaissance of vinyl, Polaroids, and analog tech[00:06:19] – Digital jail bars: ownership v. licensing[00:07:32] – Resurgence of physical books and media[00:14:05] – Escaping the algorithm: media, ads, privacy[00:17:49] – Analog writing process: pen, paper, and mindset[00:22:01] – Typewriters, smart typewriters, and focused writing tools[00:26:08] – Building a personal media server; ditching streaming[00:28:10] – Subscription fatigue and digital ownership[00:30:20] – Dangers of algorithmic censorship[00:31:42] – Wrap-up: Call to action & listener engagement

✨ If the analog rebellion speaks to you—or you’re just tired of digital gatekeepers—hit subscribe and ring that notification bell for more Wordslinger goodness! Drop your comments below: What does “Analog Rebellion” look like in your life?

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.

This week on the Wordslinger Podcast, Kevin Tumlinson dives into the hands-on art of “Writing by hand” and why he’s experimenting with pen and paper for his next novel. If you’ve ever wondered whether going analog could boost your creativity or help beat writer’s block, this episode offers practical insights, personal stories, and a modern workflow that bridges handwriting with AI tools like ChatGPT and Scrivener.

Tune in as Kevin Tumlinson discusses how writing by hand connects him more deeply to his stories, helps prevent burnout, and changes the flavor of his fiction. He also shares tips for building new habits, staying creative, and pushing past plateaus with intentional experimentation.

Show links:

* Kevin’s Substack – https://kevintumlinson.substack.com Weekly essays, reflections, and updates from Kevin

* Wordslinger Podcast – https://wordslingerpodcast.com All Wordslinger episodes plus Substack links

* Author Anchor – https://authoranchor.com Hire a vetted author assistant for just $7.50/hr

Watch (and subscribe!) on YouTube:

Important Topics & Timestamps:

* [00:00:05] – Why Kevin experiments with his writing process and how it shaped his career

* [00:08:50] – Overcoming burnout, shifting genres, and finding new creative energy

* [00:11:22] – The spontaneity and benefits of writing fiction by hand

* [00:14:13] – How handwriting taps into creativity (and tips for journaling)

* [00:16:19] – Using ChatGPT for digitizing handwritten text and editing workflow

* [00:20:22] – Comparing writing by hand to cooking from scratch—intentional creativity

* [00:29:23] – The power of slowing down and embracing delayed gratification in writing

* [00:34:07] – Is this Kevin’s new permanent process? Why experimentation matters

* [00:36:03] – Subscribe, share, and connect with the Wordslinger community

Looking for fresh writing strategies and creative inspiration? Hit subscribe and tap the notification bell so you never miss an episode! 🔔

—

👆 Leave a comment below if you’ve ever tried writing by hand, or share your latest writerly experiment!

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

Episode Overview:

As 2025 comes to a close, Kevin Tumlinson opens up about his intentions for 2026—both as a writer and as a human seeking more meaning, joy, and flexibility in his craft. In this reflective solo episode, you'll discover how continual writing, true work-life integration, and conscious choices about happiness can revitalize not only your career, but your life. Whether you're a writer, creative, entrepreneur, or dreamer, this episode is packed with insights to inspire your year ahead.

Tune in to learn:

- Why productivity can be a double-edged sword—and how to keep your creativity alive- How Kevin Tumlinson is rethinking his writing process for maximum adaptability- The importance of letting life fuel your creative work- How to consciously choose joy, even during dark times- The value of pursuing passion over just chasing profit- Powerful stories and actionable wisdom for making 2026 your most intentional year yet

Links & Resources Mentioned:

Author Anchor – Virtual assistants for authors; book your free discovery callKevin's Substack – Essays, insights, and creative updates from KevinKevin's Books & Main Site – Find all Kevin’s novels, podcasts, and moreWordslingerPodcast.com – Archive of all back episodesKevin's YouTube Channel – Walking Kev shorts & more video content

Watch (and subscribe!) on YouTube:

Key Topics & Timestamps:

[00:00:00] – End of year reflections & new beginnings[00:02:12] – Relocation, flexibility, and new tech for creative work[00:02:43] – Embracing continual writing throughout the day[00:04:04] – The power of thinking as part of the writing process[00:06:08] – Letting go of toxic productivity & finding balance[00:07:56] – Career as integrated with life, not just a job[00:10:23] – The work must nourish your soul and others[00:11:43] – Taking risks, reigniting old passions, and being boldly creative[00:14:18] – Pursuing art, music, and new experiences[00:16:45] – Letting life fuel artistic output[00:18:43] – Committing to joy & the choice of happiness[00:21:01] – Story: Finding laughter during sorrow[00:26:12] – Redefining success for a portable, flexible career[00:29:02] – Community, connection, and call for listener interactionLooking for inspiration and practical guidance as you shape your writing—and your life—for 2026? Subscribe and join the Wordslinger community, and don’t forget to check out Author Anchor to level up your author business! 🔔

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.Merry Christmas, slingers! In this special holiday episode, Kevin Tumlinson shares what he learned in 2025 as a writer and creative. Tune in for real-world advice on creativity, outlining, maintaining momentum, avoiding burnout, and finding joy in continual writing. Whether you’re an indie author or just looking for inspiration for your creative career, these insights can help make 2026 your best year yet!

Show links:

WordslingerPodcast.com — Official site for episodes and commentsKevinTumlinson.com/books — Browse Kevin’s books and support his workAuthorAnchor.com — Author assistant service (sponsor; book a discovery call!)

Watch (and subscribe!) on YouTube:

Key Topics & Timestamps:

[00:00:00] — Holiday greetings & intro[00:01:20] — Lessons learned on outlining, pantsing, and finding your process[00:05:22] — “Because that happened, then this happened” method for propelling story[00:11:10] — Learning from Haruki Murakami: art vs. logic in storytelling[00:12:46] — James Patterson’s writing routine and overcoming burnout[00:15:21] — Embracing continual writing & making it a joyful habit[00:21:18] — Outlining as a creative sharpening stone[00:22:26] — Advice for nonfiction writers and integrating writing with life[00:24:02] — Why looking for blessings is key to winning at life[00:25:18] — Call to action: share what you’ve learned, support Kevin’s booksLooking for honest, practical writing advice and indie publishing inspiration? Subscribe and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes! 🔔

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! 🔔