The story behind Self Publishing with Dale Roberts // Wordslinger ep 228 The Wordslinger Show 2024-06-21 | SHOW NOTESFind me on Substack at kevintumlinson.substack.com Dale Roberts has become a good friend to me over the past decade or so, and he’s certainly done a lot to help indie authors in their careers. His YouTube channel is superb, well thought out, and done with care. In this episode, though, Dale and I step back from the mic a bit and give you some of the behind the scenes of life in the self publishing space.Show links:- YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCKv8xcrFntOERL7NUXgkypg- Linktr.ee - https://linktr.ee/selfpubwithdale- Website: selfpublishingwithdale.comMY NEW NOVEL, “THE FORGOTTEN RUNE,” AVAILABLE NOW!Download your copy at bit.ly/forgottenruneaz Watch “Who is Dan Kotler?” on YouTube: youtu.be/QMecGA2bptQ?si=u3iJ8Lq-qwL6rEi4 The Wordslinger Podcast on YouTube: youtube.com/wordslingerpodcast Find more from me, and find ways to support what I’m making here, when you go to Wordslingerpodcast.com Got a topic or question for the show? Want to AKA (Ask Kevin ANYTHING?) Send it to me at kevintumlinson.com/contact Follow me online:- Buy my books at kevintumlinson.com/books- Read me on Substack: kevintumlinson.substack.com - See me: youtube.com/kevintumlinson - X me out: x.com/kevintumlinson (@kevintumlinson)- Face me: facebook.com/kevintumlinson - Link me: linkedin.com/in/kevintumlinson
How to Be an Anonymous Author and Still Sell Books The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-29 | A WORDSLINGER 10-SHOTCan you build an author career without putting your face, real name, and personal life all over the internet? Absolutely—but anonymity takes more than choosing a pen name.In this Wordslinger 10-Shot, I break down practical ways authors can market their books while protecting their identity. We’ll talk about building a brand around your pen name, keeping your author life separate from your personal life, creating ways for readers to connect with you without revealing who you are, and treating anonymity as an ongoing practice rather than a one-time setup.You can still build an audience. You can still run ads, use social media, appear on podcasts, create videos, grow an email list, and sell books. You just need to be deliberate about how you do it.Visit the Knovelton Bookshop at knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSTIMECODES:00:00 Can an author really stay anonymous?01:44 Build your brand around your pen name02:43 Separate your author accounts from your personal accounts03:45 How anonymous authors can connect with readers04:42 Avatars, author photos, and faceless branding05:39 Websites, domains, and anonymous email06:43 Treat anonymity as an ongoing practice07:25 How to market books without showing your face08:03 Ads, interviews, TikTok, and faceless content09:06 Why separating your personal and professional lives matters09:54 Final thoughts for anonymous authorsIf you're a writer trying to build a career, publish better books, grow an audience, and navigate the business side of being an author, subscribe to the channel. Wordslinger is here to give you practical, experience-based guidance for every stage of your writing and publishing journey.FIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWritingAid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books (and more!) at Author Anchor:authoranchor.com
When Should an Author Hire a Virtual Assistant? The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-28 | A WORDSLINGER 10-SHOTWhat if the thing keeping you from writing more books isn’t the writing—it’s everything else that comes with being an author?In this Wordslinger 10-Shot, Kevin talks about working with a virtual assistant, or author assistant, to take some of the business of being a writer off your shoulders. Marketing, social media, video editing, graphic design, administrative work, Kickstarter campaigns, online stores, and more can potentially be delegated—giving you more time and energy for the work only you can do.But hiring help isn’t just about getting rid of tasks. Kevin breaks down how to decide whether an assistant makes financial sense, what you should expect to pay, how to choose the right person, and how to avoid some of the biggest mistakes authors make when they start outsourcing.You’ll also learn a simple way to onboard an assistant, test your communication and workflow, document repeatable processes, and gradually build a working relationship that can grow along with your author business.If the business of being an author is starting to take more time than the writing, this episode will help you figure out what you can hand off—and when.Visit the Knovelton Bookshop at knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSTIMECODES00:00 Writing anywhere—and why authors need help00:32 What is a virtual assistant or author assistant?01:13 What does an author assistant cost?03:20 What can an author assistant do?04:04 Why Author Anchor was created04:51 Tasks authors can delegate06:11 How to know when you’re ready to hire help07:14 Think in terms of return on investment08:20 How to start working with an assistant09:30 Why small test projects matter10:03 Document your processes11:08 Don’t overload your assistant11:53 Match the assistant to the skills you actually need12:46 One assistant doesn’t have to do everything14:06 How to prepare for a discovery call15:31 Interviewing and choosing an assistant16:32 When outsourcing can help you break through17:31 Final thoughts and author assistant adviceSUBSCRIBE TO WORDSLINGERIf you’re a writer trying to write better books, publish smarter, build an audience, and create a sustainable career around your work, subscribe to the Wordslinger channel. This is where writers come for practical, experience-driven guidance on the writing and publishing journey.FIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWritingAid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books (and more!) at Author Anchor:authoranchor.com
The Weird Way I Start Writing a Novel The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-24 | A WORDSLINGER PODCASTMost writers start with a character, a premise, a scene, or maybe an ending.I often start with the title.In this episode of the Wordslinger Podcast, I talk about the weird way I begin many of my novels, why a good title can sometimes unlock an entire story, and what happens when the title changes halfway through the book.I also get into what I’m working on right now, including a commissioned historical novel, the Wordslinger book, short fiction, and the challenge of keeping multiple creative projects moving at once.Along the way, we talk about discovery writing, research, productivity, batching content, building repeatable workflows, marketing your books, growing an audience, and finding ways to make a creative career sustainable.If you’re a writer, creator, or creative entrepreneur trying to produce more work without letting everything else fall apart, there’s plenty here you can put to work.Visit the Knovelton Bookshop at knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSTIMECODES00:00 Welcome to the Wordslinger Podcast01:38 Rapid-Fire Newsflash with Dale Roberts04:01 Franklin, Tennessee and what I’m working toward06:36 Why environment affects my productivity07:38 Writing a fictionalized story from real history09:20 When research needs to end and writing needs to begin09:59 Why I love “having written”11:19 The weird way I start writing a novel11:58 How thriller titles can create the story13:38 Why titles matter so much14:37 What happens when a book changes titles15:26 Writing the Wordslinger book18:19 Why I’m experimenting with short fiction21:35 Batching videos, podcasts, and creative work23:02 Building templates and repeatable workflows24:16 Why systems make creative work easier25:20 What marketing really means for writers26:10 Why marketing is more than advertising27:20 The value of building a local readership28:24 Turning readers into your best marketing29:29 How I balance multiple projects30:20 What I’m reading right nowRAPID-FIRE NEWSFLASH WITH DALE ROBERTSDale Roberts joins the show with a quick roundup of important developments in self-publishing, including changes to KDP title creation limits, identity verification problems, KDP account termination and reinstatement, and free audiobook creation tools available through Spotify for Authors.KDP Community: Update on KDP Title Creation Limitskdpcommunity.com/s/article/KDP-Title-Creation-Limits-Update?language=en_USKDP Help: Troubleshoot Identity Verification Errorskdp.amazon.com/en_US/help/topic/GFN5MYGPJ4MV7PSPAmazon Terminated My KDP Account. Here’s How I Got It Back.hiddengemsbooks.com/amazon-terminated-kdp-account-how-to-get-it-backSpotify for Authors: Draft2Digital authors: your audiobook starts here.authors.spotify.com/draft2digitalThe Self-Publishing with Dale Podcastyoutube.com/@selfpubwithdaleSubscribe to Dale Roberts:youtube.com/@selfpubwithdaleSUBSCRIBE TO THE WORDSLINGER SHOWIf you’re serious about becoming a better writer, publishing smarter, reaching more readers, and building a creative career that lasts, subscribe to the channel.The Wordslinger Show is about practical, experience-tested guidance for writers at every stage of the writing and publishing journey.FIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWritingAid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books (and more!) at AuthorAnchor:authoranchor.com
Why Do You Write? This Answer Changes Everything The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-23 | A WORDSLINGER 10-SHOTWhy do you write?It sounds like a simple question, but your answer may be the thing that keeps you going when the words aren’t coming, the sales aren’t happening, and nobody seems to notice the work you’re putting in.In this Wordslinger 10-Shot, I talk about an unexpected encounter with a reader that reminded me of something every writer needs to remember: there’s a real human being on the other side of the book. Someone is reading your words, entering the worlds you create, learning from you, laughing with you, or seeing something differently because you decided to sit down and write.Your income can be part of your why. Your ambition can be part of it. Your need to tell stories can absolutely be part of it. But when the work gets difficult, it helps to remember who you’re doing it for.Figure out your why. Remember your reader. Then keep writing.Visit the Knovelton Bookshop at knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSTIMECODES:00:00 An unexpected encounter with one of my readers01:13 Being recognized as a writer02:01 Remember the person on the other side of the book02:58 Stephen King and the idea of the ideal reader04:47 You may already be reaching readers without realizing it05:36 Writing is about more than fame or money06:15 Who are you really writing for?07:20 Recognition isn’t what makes your writing worthwhile08:11 Why every writer needs a strong “why”10:04 The human being on the other side of your work10:32 What’s your why?If you’re a writer trying to build a career, publish better books, grow your audience, and navigate the writing and publishing world without all the noise, subscribe to the Wordslinger channel. This is where writers come for practical, experience-driven guidance on writing, publishing, marketing, and building a creative career.And leave a comment: Why do YOU write? What keeps you going when the work gets hard?FIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWritingAid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books (and more!) at AuthorAnchor:authoranchor.com
This SECRET makes writers successful The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-22 | A WORDSLINGER 10-SHOTWhat do successful writers have in common? They surround themselves with writing.In this Wordslinger 10-Shot, I talk about one of the most useful habits I’ve developed over the years: reading books by writers about the writing life, learning from other authors, attending conferences, listening to interviews and podcasts, and immersing yourself in the experiences of people who understand what it means to do this work.I’ve recently been reading Larry McMurtry’s Walter Benjamin at the Dairy Queen, and I’m moving on to Ray Bradbury’s Zen in the Art of Writing. Books like these aren’t necessarily about teaching you how to construct a plot or write better dialogue. They give you something different: perspective.And perspective matters.Every writer struggles. Every writer wonders whether they’re doing it wrong. Every writer hits periods when motivation disappears and the work gets harder. Hearing how other writers think, work, struggle, and keep going can remind you that there are a million different ways to build a writing career—and help you discover your own.We’ll also talk about why you should read outside your genre, why writers’ conferences can be transformative, why you shouldn’t compare your career to someone else’s, and why you should take every writer’s success story with at least a small grain of salt.Because writers are storytellers.And storytellers sometimes polish the story.If you’re building a life around writing, publishing, creativity, and storytelling, subscribe to the Wordslinger channel. This is the place for practical, experience-driven guidance to help you become a better writer, navigate publishing, build your career, and keep going when the work gets difficult.Visit the Knovelton Bookshop at http://knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSTIMECODES:00:00 Why I’m reading books by writers about writing00:52 Larry McMurtry and Walter Benjamin at the Dairy Queen01:33 Writers should read far and wide02:14 What different genres can teach you03:38 Why successful writers are worth studying04:23 Don’t compare yourself to other writers04:53 Why writers need other writers06:00 How writers’ conferences can reignite your creativity07:02 You’re probably not doing writing wrong08:11 Surround yourself with writers and writing08:51 Writers are liars09:51 Learn from the lesson, not just the success story11:16 Build an environment that keeps you inspiredFIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWriting Aid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books (and more!) at AuthorAnchor:authoranchor.com
Hate Marketing? Here’s What I Do Instead. The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-21 | A WORDSLINGER 10-SHOTHate marketing your books? You’re probably thinking about marketing the wrong way.A lot of writers hear “book marketing” and immediately think about running ads, posting constantly on social media, chasing TikTok trends, finding reviewers, testing campaigns, and spending money they may never earn back. No wonder authors get exhausted.But marketing doesn’t have to mean any of that.In this Wordslinger 10-Shot, I talk about a simpler way to think about marketing: reaching the right reader at the moment they’re most ready to discover your work. That can mean email. It can mean social media. It can mean a local book signing, a farmers market, your library, or simply asking your existing readers to tell someone else about your books.If you wrote something you believe matters, then part of the job is helping people find it.00:00 Can I just write my books?00:37 Why authors feel buried by marketing01:11 What writers usually mean by “marketing”02:02 What marketing actually is03:16 Why your email list matters so much04:04 Start local and find readers nearby04:51 Creative ways to sell books in your community05:52 Libraries, farmers markets, and local events06:34 Ask your readers to help spread the word07:26 Marketing is really a conversation08:34 Why writers have an obligation to share their work09:26 What are your biggest marketing pain points?Visit the Knovelton Bookshop at http://knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSIf you’re a writer looking for practical, experience-tested guidance on writing, publishing, marketing, and building a sustainable creative career, subscribe to the Wordslinger channel. This is where we talk honestly about the work, the business, and the long game of becoming the writer you want to be.FIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWritingAid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books and more at AuthorAnchor:authoranchor.com
I Wrote This Novel in ONE DAY (No AI). Here’s What I Got Wrong The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-18 | A WORDSLINGER STORY CUTI wrote my novel Evergreen—about 60,000 words—in a single 18-hour day.Years later, it remains one of the books readers mention most often, one of my wife’s favorites, and one of my stories that has attracted the most interest from film and television. But that doesn’t mean I got everything right.In this Wordslinger Story Cut, I turn the microscope on my own work. I break down what I think Evergreen does well, where the storytelling falls short, and what decades of additional writing experience have taught me about pacing, character development, exposition, coincidence, setup and payoff, escalating stakes, and endings.I even let AI critique the book—and sometimes I agree with it. Sometimes I don’t.If you’re interested in why stories work, why they sometimes don’t, and what writers can learn by looking critically at their own work, this one is for you.Visit the Knovelton Bookshop at knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSTIMECODES00:00 Why I’m reviewing one of my own novels00:53 How I wrote a 60,000-word novel in one day02:32 Why Evergreen became one of my most memorable books04:10 Letting AI critique my own work05:16 The storytelling hook: stealing memories with a touch06:12 Using inner voices to handle exposition08:06 Escalating from street-level stakes to the President09:22 Creating an emotional spine for the story10:15 Building memorable set pieces11:20 How ticking clocks create tension12:51 Why limitations make powers more interesting15:15 Weakness #1: Mid-book sprawl16:51 Weakness #2: Coincidence and convenience20:09 Weakness #3: Supporting characters22:35 Weakness #4: Setup and payoff came too late24:43 Weakness #5: An ending that wrapped things up too neatly26:42 The “ship in a bottle” storytelling problem28:31 What I changed when writing the sequel29:34 What I learned from critiquing my own novelWant more conversations about storytelling, writing craft, publishing, marketing, and building a creative career? Subscribe to the Wordslinger Show. If you’re a writer, this is where you’ll find practical guidance for every stage of your writing and publishing journey—from putting words on the page to getting those words into readers’ hands.Subscribe and explore the channel:youtube.com/@WordslingerShowFind Evergreen and Kevin’s other books:kevintumlinson.com/booksFIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWritingAid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books (and more!) at AuthorAnchor:authoranchor.com
How I Keep Multiple Writing Projects Moving at Once The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-17 | A WORDSLINGER PODCASTHow do you keep multiple writing projects moving without losing momentum—or your mind?In this episode, I’m breaking down the systems I use to manage several creative projects at once, including nonfiction, historical fiction, novels, short stories, YouTube, research, and everything else competing for attention.The key isn’t working harder. It’s building systems that reduce friction and make it easier to sit down, do the work, and keep moving.I talk about how I break larger books into manageable daily pieces, why historical fiction requires a different approach to outlining, how I’m experimenting with short fiction as part of my publishing strategy, and why reading, journaling, notebooks, reminders, and even AI have become important parts of my creative workflow.If you’re a writer, creator, or creative entrepreneur trying to balance multiple projects while still producing meaningful work, this episode is for you.Visit the Knovelton Bookshop at knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSTIME CODES:00:00 Multiple projects, travel, and making time to create01:55 Turning years of Wordslinger topics into a nonfiction book03:46 Breaking books into manageable daily conversations04:47 Researching and writing historical fiction06:59 Why timelines can become your outline07:57 My Kindle Short Reads strategy09:58 Using short fiction to attract new readers11:34 Writing short stories between novels12:48 Filling the income gap between book launches13:41 The secret is building systems14:22 My morning reading and writing routine15:07 Why I’m deliberately reading more16:59 Using reminders to build habits17:54 Journaling as a tool for creative strategy19:05 Why physical books may help us remember more20:50 Building a “second brain”22:35 Why I carry a notebook everywhere23:37 Stop trying to organize your creative notebook24:46 Capturing ideas with audio and AI25:32 Building your own writer-business systems26:49 How do you keep your projects moving?If you’re serious about becoming a better writer, publishing smarter, building an author career, and creating work that matters, subscribe to the channel. Wordslinger is here to give writers practical, experience-based guidance for every stage of the writing and publishing journey.FIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWritingAid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books—and more—at AuthorAnchor:authoranchor.com
Way too busy for writing The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-16 | A WORDSLINGER 10-SHOTWay too busy for writing?Travel, work, family, deadlines, vacations, and plain old life can wreck even the best writing routine. But staying productive doesn’t always mean forcing yourself to sit down for a full writing session every single day.In this Wordslinger 10-Shot, I share some of the ways I keep my writing moving even when I’m traveling or my normal routine gets disrupted. That might mean getting up early, writing ahead, shifting from drafting to outlining or editing, carrying portable writing tools, or taking advantage of those little gaps in the day that would otherwise disappear.The important thing is forward progress.But there’s another side to this: Don’t let the writing interfere with the living. Your life is where the material comes from. Sometimes taking the trip, enjoying the moment, and looking up from the screen is exactly what your writing needs.Visit the Knovelton Bookshop at knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSTIMECODES00:00 Writing when life gets busy01:19 Keeping your normal routine while traveling02:25 Why you don’t have to write every single day03:02 Writing ahead when you know life will get busy04:03 Double-timing your writing before a trip04:59 Outline, edit, or revise when drafting isn’t practical06:05 Portable tools for writing anywhere06:49 Turning your phone into a writing setup07:40 Finding spare moments to write08:58 All forward progress is good progress09:09 Don’t let writing interfere with living09:51 Simple ways to keep writing on the goIf you’re a writer looking for practical, experience-based guidance on writing, publishing, building an author career, and navigating the creative life, subscribe to Wordslinger. This is the place for straight talk and useful advice to help you keep moving forward on your writing and publishing journey.And leave a comment: How do you keep writing when you’re traveling, overloaded, or completely out of your normal routine?FIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWriting Aid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books (and more!) at AuthorAnchor:authoranchor.com
BETA READERS - Heres how you find them The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-15 | A WORDSLINGER 10-SHOTHow do you actually find beta readers for your book?In this Wordslinger 10-Shot, I break down the practical ways I’ve built a beta reader and street team over the years—from starting with friends and family, to recruiting readers who already send useful feedback, to finding potential beta readers in reader and writer communities.But finding them is only half the job. You also need to give your beta readers clear expectations: what kind of feedback you need, how you want them to report errors, what they should and shouldn’t do with the manuscript, and when you need their notes back.A good beta reader can help you catch typos, continuity problems, logic issues, and those little things that might knock a reader out of the story. And the big secret to building a reliable team is simpler than most writers think: ask.If you’re writing, publishing, or building a career as an independent author, subscribe to Wordslinger. This channel is here to give writers practical, experience-based guidance for every stage of the writing and publishing journey.00:00 What is a beta reader?01:32 Alpha readers vs. beta readers03:02 Start with friends and family04:18 Turn helpful readers into beta readers05:10 Finding beta readers in reader and writer groups06:49 Set clear rules and expectations07:38 The best way to receive corrections08:48 How I process beta reader feedback09:45 Set deadlines before publication10:23 The real secret to finding beta readersVisit the Knovelton Bookshop at knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSFIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books: kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack: kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page: wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWriting Aid: tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital: draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books (and more!) at AuthorAnchor: authoranchor.com
AI isnt going to replace you The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-14 | A WORDSLINGER 10-SHOTAI isn’t going to replace you.At least, not if you’re doing the part of writing that actually matters.In this Wordslinger 10-Shot, Kevin Tumlinson talks about the fear that AI will replace writers, artists, and other creative professionals—and why he thinks that fear is aimed at the wrong target.Yes, AI may replace some types of high-volume, formula-driven content. But real creative work comes from human experience, judgment, emotion, taste, perspective, and the strange synthesis of ideas that happens inside an actual human life.AI can assist you. It can help with research, brainstorming, proofreading, editing, and expanding ideas. It can act as a production tool. But it cannot live your life, carry your memories, or bring your particular perspective to the page.The writers who thrive in the years ahead may not be the ones who fight AI the hardest. They may be the ones who learn how to use it without surrendering the human part of the work.So the question isn’t whether AI can write.The question is: What can you bring to the page that AI never can?Visit the Knovelton Bookshop at knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSIf you’re a writer looking for practical, honest guidance on writing, publishing, building an audience, and creating a sustainable creative career, subscribe to the Wordslinger channel. This is where writers come to get better at the craft, understand the business, and keep moving forward.TIMECODES:00:00 Why writers are afraid of AI00:50 The “fiction factory” model02:17 The kind of writing AI may replace02:58 Why human writers are different04:07 Accidental art and the “broken clock” problem04:49 Stop fighting the existence of AI05:10 What “AI slop” gets wrong05:52 AI as a creative production tool06:55 How writers should actually use AI08:02 AI as an enhancement tool for writers08:42 Why human experience still matters09:20 What AI cannot replicate10:01 Why businesses replacing humans may regret it11:15 AI should assist excellence, not replace itFIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWriting Aid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books (and more!) at AuthorAnchor:authoranchor.com
Theo of Golden Proves You Don’t Need Action to Create Drama The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-11 | A WORDSLINGER STORY CUTCan a novel keep you turning pages without explosions, car chases, monsters, or constant high-stakes action?Theo of Golden by Allen Levi proves that it can.In this Wordslinger Story Cut, I take a storyteller’s look at one of my new favorite novels and examine why such a quiet, heartfelt story works so well. Theo arrives in the small town of Golden, Georgia, and begins purchasing hand-drawn portraits of local people, returning those portraits to their subjects and asking one simple thing in return: Tell me your story.That deceptively simple device becomes the engine for an entire novel.We’ll look at how attention itself can become dramatic action, how secondary characters can briefly take center stage without derailing the main story, how repetition can create anticipation instead of boredom, and how a carefully constructed mystery can keep readers moving forward even when the stakes are almost entirely emotional.I also dig into one of the book’s potential weaknesses: Theo’s unusual ability to get strangers to reveal some of the deepest wounds of their lives. Is it realistic? Is it too sentimental? Or does the novel earn our willing suspension of disbelief through the strength of its characters and its underlying message about human connection?And finally, we talk about one of my favorite storytelling techniques: the kind of ending that makes you look backward through the entire story and realize the clues were sitting there all along.If you love great novels, movies, television, streaming shows, and conversations about what makes stories actually work, this episode is for you.Visit the Knovelton Bookshop at knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSTIMECODES:00:00 Welcome to Wordslinger Story Cuts00:25 Why Theo of Golden is worth talking about01:16 From self-published novel to bestseller02:11 The portrait device that drives the story04:47 How attention becomes dramatic action05:55 Why Theo’s encounters work emotionally08:56 The realism problem: Would people really open up this much?10:24 Kindness, connection, and what Theo gets in return12:08 Willing suspension of disbelief12:57 Repetition, predictability, and the novel’s unusual structure15:00 How the portraits create a portrait of an entire community15:57 Writing memorable secondary characters17:38 How repetition and escalation keep readers engaged18:52 The mystery of Theo20:02 How to make a twist feel satisfying21:48 Leaving breadcrumbs without giving away the ending24:35 My rating for Theo of Golden25:51 The biggest storytelling lesson from the novelIf you’re a writer, storyteller, or creator who wants to better understand why some stories grab us and refuse to let go, subscribe to the Wordslinger channel. This is where we talk honestly about writing, storytelling, publishing, creative careers, and the craft and business of building a life around your work.FIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWritingAid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books and more at AuthorAnchor:authoranchor.com
Writers: You’re Running a Business Whether You Like It or Not The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-10 | A WORDSLINGER PODCASTIf you want people to read your books, buy your books, and help you build a sustainable writing career, then you’re already in business—whether you like that idea or not.In this episode of the Wordslinger Podcast, I talk about why writers need to start thinking like entrepreneurs, what marketing really means, and why building your own platform matters more than chasing individual book sales.We get into mailing lists, reader ownership, Amazon exclusivity versus wide distribution, advertising, lead magnets, local marketing, the power of asking, and why your long-term goal should be to build an audience you can actually reach without depending entirely on Amazon, Facebook, YouTube, or anyone else’s algorithm.If you’ve ever said, “I just want to write,” but you also want readers, income, and a real career from your work, this episode is for you.Visit the Knovelton Bookshop at knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSSubscribe to the Wordslinger Show for practical, experience-based guidance on writing, publishing, book marketing, indie publishing, storytelling, and building a creative career that lasts.TIMECODES:00:00 Welcome to the Wordslinger Podcast01:15 Indie publishing, traditional publishing, and marketing02:21 What marketing really means for writers03:21 Building a deep and wide author platform04:36 Why you need to own your audience05:54 Social media is not your platform06:42 Why email is still the foundation07:48 Building 1,000 true fans09:05 Why writers need their own sales platform11:14 KDP Select and Kindle Unlimited explained12:59 The downside of Amazon exclusivity13:56 Are Amazon ads still worth it?14:52 Why I use ads to build my mailing list16:03 Lead magnets and free books16:56 Building and expanding your reader base18:03 Lookalike audiences and finding more readers18:41 Asking is a superpower19:15 Why giving people a “because” works20:24 Marketing, business, and the writer mindset21:30 Why writers need to treat writing like a business22:08 If you want readers and money, you have a business22:57 The myth that self-publishing ruins traditional publishing chances24:34 Embrace your inner capitalist25:43 How indie publishing changed the industry28:06 AI, low-quality books, and standing out29:14 Three things every indie author needs to do30:10 Why building a platform beats chasing one sale32:59 Nobody owes you a reader33:47 The Wordslinger Show and what’s coming nextFIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWriting Aid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books and more at AuthorAnchor:authoranchor.com
You Don’t Need to Buy ISBNs The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-09 | A WORDSLINGER 10-SHOTDo indie authors really need to buy their own ISBNs? For most self-published authors, the answer is probably no.In this episode, J. Kevin Tumlinson breaks down the real differences between purchasing your own ISBN and using a free ISBN from services such as Draft2Digital or Amazon. We’ll look at what “publisher of record” actually means, whether an ISBN affects copyright or ownership, how ISBNs work across paperback, hardcover, ebook, and audiobook editions, and when paying for your own ISBN might actually make sense.If you’re building an indie publishing career, trying to control costs, or wondering whether owning your ISBN gives you some hidden advantage, this episode will help you make a smarter decision.00:00 Should indie authors buy their own ISBNs?01:02 What “publisher of record” actually means01:52 ISBNs, Bowker, and the cost of buying your own02:48 Why every format needs its own ISBN03:56 Moving your ISBN between distributors05:19 ISBNs, bookstores, libraries, and wide distribution06:30 Using free ISBNs with Draft2Digital07:15 Metadata and long-term catalog control08:13 The cost of owning your ISBNs09:03 Do you even need an ISBN?09:47 What an ISBN actually does10:22 What happens if you switch ISBNs later11:20 Why Kevin recommends free ISBNs for most authors12:06 A warning about platform-specific free ISBNs13:04 Kevin’s recommendation for indie authors14:49 Final thoughts and questions about ISBNsVisit the Knovelton Bookshop at knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSIf you’re a writer trying to build a career, publish smarter, improve your craft, and navigate the business of being an author, subscribe to the Wordslinger channel. This is where writers come for practical, experience-driven guidance on writing, publishing, marketing, and building a sustainable creative career.FIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWritingAid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books (and more!) at AuthorAnchor:authoranchor.comSubscribe, leave a comment with your own experience using free or paid ISBNs, and share this episode with another writer who may be spending money they don’t need to spend.
Amazon, Kobo, D2D: Here’s How I Distribute My Books The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-08 | A WORDSLINGER 10-SHOTWhat’s the best way for an indie author to distribute their books?In this Wordslinger 10-Shot, I break down the book distribution strategy I actually use—including why I go direct to Amazon and Kobo, use Draft2Digital to reach Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, libraries, and thousands of other outlets, and maintain my own direct storefront.We’ll also talk about KDP Select and Kindle Unlimited, the tradeoffs of Amazon exclusivity, the advantages of going wide, why I prefer having access to readers across multiple platforms, and how indie authors can build a simple distribution system without making things unnecessarily complicated.There are plenty of ways to distribute a book. This isn’t the only way. It’s the system that works for me after years of publishing books and working professionally in the indie publishing industry.If you’re an author trying to decide between Amazon exclusivity, wide distribution, Draft2Digital, Kobo, direct sales, or some combination of all of them, this episode should help you think through your options.00:00 How I distribute my books00:59 Why indie authors need a distribution strategy01:57 Using Draft2Digital to go wide03:01 Why I use D2D for some retailers but not others03:49 Why I distribute directly to Kobo04:58 Libraries, OverDrive, and wider distribution06:03 KDP vs. KDP Select06:44 Kindle Unlimited and Amazon exclusivity07:40 The upside and downside of Kindle Unlimited09:33 Other distribution options and Draft2Digital fees10:59 My complete book distribution setup11:59 Selling books directly through your own storefrontVisit the Knovelton Bookshop at knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSIf you’re a writer looking for practical, experience-based guidance on writing, publishing, marketing, building an author career, and navigating the creative life, subscribe to the Wordslinger channel. This is where writers come to get useful advice for every stage of the writing and publishing journey.Subscribe and join the conversation:youtube.com/@WordslingerShowFIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWriting Aid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books (and more!) at AuthorAnchor:authoranchor.com
AI Isn’t Why Your Books Aren’t Selling The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-07 | A WORDSLINGER 10-SHOTIs AI really the reason your books aren’t selling?Writers have plenty of legitimate reasons to be concerned about artificial intelligence, AI-generated books, changing algorithms, publishing platforms, and an increasingly crowded marketplace. But blaming AI for a struggling writing career won’t help you build a better one.In this Wordslinger 10-Shot, J. Kevin Tumlinson talks about why writers should stop thinking in terms of competition and start building something far more valuable: a direct relationship with their readers.Instead of depending entirely on Amazon, advertising platforms, algorithms, or whatever marketing tactic happens to be working this month, writers can build their own ecosystem through mailing lists, direct sales, strong reader relationships, and a platform they control.AI may be an obstacle. But the obstacle can become the way forward.If you’re an author, indie publisher, creator, or creative entrepreneur trying to build a sustainable career around your work, this episode is about focusing your energy on the things you can actually control.00:00 Welcome to the Wordslinger 10-Shot00:41 Is AI responsible for writers struggling?01:29 Writers aren’t really competing with each other02:31 Marketing is much bigger than advertising03:22 Why marketing strategies stop working03:51 Stop blaming AI for your lack of success04:35 Quality, craft, and finding the marketing that fits you05:43 Build your own reader ecosystem06:44 Protect yourself from platform dependence07:27 Build your mailing list and direct reader relationships08:07 The obstacle is the way: turning AI into an advantage09:16 Final thoughts and the challenge for writersJoin Kevin’s mailing list and get a free book:kevintumlinson.com/joinmeVisit the Knovelton Bookshop at knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSIf you’re serious about writing better books, finding readers, navigating publishing, and building a sustainable creative career, subscribe to Wordslinger. This channel is dedicated to practical, experience-driven guidance for writers at every stage of the writing and publishing journey.Subscribe, leave a comment, and tell me: Has AI changed the way you approach your writing or publishing career? And what are you doing to build a relationship with readers that you control?FIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWritingAid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books and more at AuthorAnchor:authoranchor.com
Marvel Ruined What Made Endgame Matter (Avengers Endgame: Encore) The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-04 | A WORDSLINGER STORY CUTMarvel spent more than a decade building toward Avengers: Endgame—and when it finally arrived, the movie gave its characters real consequences, real sacrifice, and real endings. So why does it feel like Marvel has spent the years since then undoing the very things that made Endgame matter?With Avengers: Endgame Encore bringing the film back to theaters and Avengers: Doomsday on the horizon, Kevin Tumlinson takes another look at Endgame from a storyteller’s perspective: what Marvel got right, where the movie stumbled, and what writers and filmmakers can learn from one of the biggest franchise finales ever made.We’ll look at the incredible decade-long setup that made the Avengers work, the importance of the five-year Blip, why consequences give stories weight, what went wrong with Thor and Hulk, the incredibly convenient rat that saved the universe, and why time travel and the multiverse may have done more damage to Marvel storytelling than good.Most importantly: When you give a beloved character a satisfying ending, should you ever open that door again?Because if death can always be undone, timelines can always be rewritten, and another version of any character can simply walk in from another universe... what happens to the stakes?And what can Avengers: Doomsday learn from Endgame before it’s too late?Visit the Knovelton Bookshop at knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSTIMECODES:00:00 Welcome to Wordslinger Story Cuts00:53 Avengers: Endgame Encore and why Endgame still matters03:06 How Marvel spent 10 years earning the payoff06:33 The importance of developing characters before the crisis10:51 The Snap and the power of a great cliffhanger11:52 Why the five-year Blip made Endgame stronger14:28 Where Endgame went wrong with Thor16:48 What happened to Hulk?18:38 Hawkeye, Black Widow, and character sacrifice19:31 The rat that accidentally saved the universe20:36 Did time travel weaken Endgame?22:03 What Endgame Encore could reveal23:02 Why the multiverse makes death meaningless24:27 Why satisfying character endings should stay ended26:15 The Avengers story Marvel should have told29:05 What writers can learn from Marvel’s shared universe31:15 Marvel needs a new generation, not the old one32:29 Final thoughts on Endgame Encore and DoomsdayIf you love great stories—or you’re a writer learning how to build better characters, stronger worlds, satisfying endings, and stories readers can’t put down—subscribe to the channel. Wordslinger is where writers and storytellers come for practical guidance on writing, publishing, storytelling, and building a creative career.MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Kevin’s books:kevintumlinson.com/booksThe Dave Cullen Show and Computing Forever on YouTubeFIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWritingAid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books (and more!) at AuthorAnchor:authoranchor.com
The JAWS Trick That Makes Characters More Powerful The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-03 | A WORDSLINGER PODCASTWhat can JAWS teach you about writing better characters? More than you might think.In this episode of the Wordslinger Podcast, Kevin Tumlinson sits down with Donn King for another Kevin on Craft conversation, this time exploring what makes fictional characters feel real—and why writers may be describing far more than they need to.Just as Steven Spielberg discovered that the unseen shark in JAWS could be more frightening than the mechanical shark itself, writers can harness the reader’s imagination to make characters more vivid, personal, and powerful. Kevin and Donn dig into character creation, discovery writing, physical description, character consistency, planting details during revision, and what happens when fictional people begin making decisions the writer never planned.You’ll discover why Kevin rarely gives detailed physical descriptions of his characters, how readers unconsciously fill in missing details, why characterization should drive description, and how seemingly brilliant setups and payoffs are often created after the first draft is finished.They also explore what happens when characters become so developed that they seem to take on lives of their own—and why character may ultimately be the engine that drives the strongest stories.If you’re a writer, author, storyteller, creator, or creative entrepreneur looking to strengthen your craft and build stories readers actually care about, subscribe to the Wordslinger channel. This is where writers come for practical, experienced guidance on writing, publishing, storytelling, creativity, and building a sustainable creative career.CHAPTERS:00:00 Why character is the foundation of story04:52 Kevin on Craft begins11:39 Why characters can take over the story15:08 When fictional characters start making their own decisions17:25 Imaginary friends, tulpas, and creating people who feel real22:08 How writers visualize characters24:08 Why Kevin rarely describes what his characters look like26:41 Letting the reader create the character28:34 When physical description actually matters30:58 The JAWS trick: let the audience imagine it33:36 Why movie adaptations can clash with the reader’s imagination38:48 The dirty secret of planting details after the fact40:21 Why revision makes discovery writers look brilliant45:03 Keeping characters consistent across a long series51:48 What Kevin wishes he’d known about writing characters53:27 Using appearance to reveal character57:55 Character growth across a series59:32 How do you write a character smarter than you?Donn King also hosts The Alignment Show and can be found on Substack and YouTube. Those platforms are mentioned in the episode, though specific URLs were not provided in the recording.Visit the Knovelton Bookshop at knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSFIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWriting Aid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books (and more!) at AuthorAnchor:authoranchor.com
Indie Author Career Advice: Traditional vs. Independent Publishing #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-03 | Starting as an indie author? Navigate traditional publishing's downsides while building your dream career. Protect your work and your vision from day one. #IndieAuthor #PublishingTips #AuthorLife #WritingCommunity
Dont Let Bad Books Ruin Your Author Legacy #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-03 | A low-rated book can tank future publishing deals. Perfect your manuscript using the right process before you launch. Your legacy depends on it. #AuthorTips #Publishing #BookMarketing #Writing
Leveraging Rejection: Turn Book Rejections into Success #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-03 | Don't fear agent rejections! Use them as feedback to improve your book. Many agents will tell you why they passed, giving you valuable insights to refine your manuscript and try again. #WritingTips #Publishing #BookMarketing #AuthorLife
Author Name Secrets: Regret My Simplification! #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-03 | Ever wonder why some author names stand out? It's not just luck. It's about crafting a unique identity, a strategy that can make or break your brand. Sometimes, simplification isn't best. #AuthorBranding #WritingTips #AuthorName #BookMarketing
Publishing Strategy: 12 Books a Year Plan #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-03 | Securing publisher buy-in for a 10-12 book per year co-author strategy, inspired by James Patterson. Focused on leveraging the business for maximum impact. #Publishing #BusinessStrategy #BookDeals #Authors #JamesPatterson
Word Slingers: My Formula for a Great Show #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-03 | What happens when a guest keeps coming back? This episode features a familiar face, already a fan favorite and practically a co-host on Word Slinger! #WordSlinger #PodcastGuest #ShowInsider #FanFavorite
Book to Screen: Shopping & Option Agreements Explained #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-03 | Ever wonder how books become films? Producers can offer a 'shopping agreement' to explore movie potential, a crucial first step before a formal option deal. #BookToMovie #HollywoodDeals #Publishing #FilmMaking
Book Publishing Strategy: Reaching New Readers Cheaply #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-02 | Streamlining publication for wider reach. By offering affordable paperbacks, I'm attracting a new audience who previously found hardcover prices prohibitive. It's a strategic way to expand my readership. #BookMarketing #AuthorLife #Publishing #ReaderEngagement
Author Collaboration: Unlocking Deeper Storytelling Potential #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-02 | Discover how co-authors bring unique expertise, like a neuropsychologist's insights, to enrich stories beyond what one person can achieve alone. Authentic voices elevate writing to new heights. #Collaboration #Storytelling #WritingTips #AuthorLife
Brandings Lost Art: Why Sales Dip Without It #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-02 | Once a cornerstone of sales in the '80s and '90s, branding has significantly diminished. A decline in focus on branding likely correlates with dips in sales and discoverability. #SalesStrategy #Branding #BusinessGrowth #MarketingTrends
Author J.D. Reveals Writing Business Secrets & Book! #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-02 | J.D. Vance's new book sparks a discussion on writing careers. He advocates for traditional publishing first, while I champion starting with indie routes. Divergent paths, same goal: a writing career. #Publishing #WritingCommunity #IndieAuthor #TraditionalPublishing
MONEY The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-02 | A WORDSLINGER 10-SHOTWriters spend a surprising amount of money trying to build a writing career—but how much of that spending is actually helping the business?In this Wordslinger 10-Shot, Kevin shares the simple question he’s using to audit every expense in his own creative business: Does this help me make money, or increase my ability to make money? From AI tools and virtual assistants to software subscriptions, podcast production, and annual plans, it’s a practical way to decide what stays, what goes, and what’s actually worth the investment.If you’re treating your writing, publishing, YouTube channel, podcast, or creative work like a business, this is a financial habit worth adopting.Visit the Knovelton Bookshop at http://knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSSubscribe to the Wordslinger channel for practical, experience-driven guidance on writing, publishing, building an author career, and navigating the business of being a creative professional.TIMECODES00:00 Why writers need to talk about money00:43 The question to ask about every business expense01:54 Does the expense increase your ability to earn?03:07 Why Kevin pays for multiple AI tools04:05 When hiring a virtual assistant makes financial sense04:57 Buying back your time as a writer06:02 When an expense actually helps you write more07:15 Separating personal and business expenses08:20 The hidden costs of running a creative business08:55 When a monthly subscription is worth keeping09:41 Monthly vs. annual plans—and buying outright10:31 The bottom-line test for every expenseFIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWriting Aid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books (and more!) at AuthorAnchor:authoranchor.com#Writing #Writers #AuthorBusiness #SelfPublishing #CreativeEntrepreneur #WritingCareer #IndieAuthors #Publishing #Wordslinger
Publishing Secrets: Traditional Route for Beginners #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-02 | New to publishing? Start with the traditional route. See your book get picked up, published, translated, and learn the industry inside out before going independent. Essential for your first book. #PublishingIndustry #TraditionalPublishing #BookPublishing #AuthorTips
Indie Authors: DONT Self-Publish Before This! #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-02 | Many indie authors self-publish after rejection, a major mistake. Their rejected books, flaws unaddressed, get 5-star reviews from friends, then plummet to 2 stars from real readers, dooming sales. #IndieAuthor #SelfPublishing #BookMarketing #WritingTips #AmazonKDP
Book Publishing Secrets: The Amazing Hardcover Quality! #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-02 | Beyond the print-on-demand quality, hardcover books offer a tactile experience with raised text and cloth-like paper. Publishers are elevating quality to keep up. #Bookbinding #Publishing #HardcoverBooks #Printing
Industry Experts Share Diverse Career Paths & Perspectives #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-02 | Navigating your career? Even industry experts like us have different takes. What works for one path might not for another. Find your unique journey. #CareerAdvice #IndustryExperts #ProfessionalDevelopment #BusinessStrategy
Brand Trust: Why Your Special Font Matters! #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-02 | Why do we trust brands? It's the trained eye recognizing the special font, the professional look. Even without knowing the name, the brand signals quality and expertise, distinguishing it from amateur efforts. #BrandRecognition #Marketing #ConsumerTrust #Branding
Stallones Company Picks Up Book Series! #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-02 | Discover how a top film agent streamlines the process, from approving projects to bringing books to life with icons like Stallone. A glimpse into the fast-paced world of Hollywood deal-making. #FilmAgent #HollywoodDeals #Stallone #MovieProduction #BehindTheScenes
Sylvester Stallone Buys 4MK Book Series! #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-02 | Sylvester Stallone's company has acquired the rights to the entire 4MK book series. Negotiations led to the inclusion of the newly written prequels, expanding the cinematic universe. #SylvesterStallone #4MK #BookSeries #EntertainmentNews
Option Agreements: The Secret to Evergreen Book Income! #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-02 | Discover how author Dallas Mayer revealed a lucrative income stream: option agreements for books. Earn checks repeatedly as your work gets optioned, even without sales. Some options fetch millions! #BookDeals #AuthorLife #OptionAgreements #WritingCommunity #Publishing
Branding Secrets: Licensing Your Name & Art #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-01 | Publishers license my trademarked font and commissioned artwork for book covers. My name, in a distinct font, outsells standard text, proving branding truly impacts sales. #PersonalBranding #AuthorTips #BookMarketing #Publishing #Trademarks
Indie vs. Trad Publishing: Which is Better for Authors? #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-01 | Indie authors earn significantly more per book (around 70%) compared to traditional publishing (10-15%). While traditional publishers sell more copies, indie authors often see better long-term profits due to higher royalty rates. #IndieAuthor #TraditionalPublishing #BookSales #AuthorLife #Publishing
Book to Movie: Understanding Option Agreements Explained #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-01 | Ever wondered how a book becomes a movie? It starts with an option agreement, giving a studio exclusive rights for a set period. Learn the process and potential pitfalls. #OptionAgreement #BookToMovie #FilmIndustry #Publishing #Hollywood
Unlock Your Career: Learn from James Pattersons $500 TV Ad Strategy #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-01 | Discover how a $500 TV commercial launched James Patterson's career. Learn how applying business strategies like marketing funnels and flywheels can revolutionize traditional publishing and boost print sales. #JamesPatterson #Publishing #MarketingStrategy #BookSales #BusinessTips
Indie Publishing: The Business of Your Books! #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-01 | The 'wizardry' of indie publishing? It's a business model. Treat it like one, and the work becomes manageable. You're the CEO, writer, and everything in between. Enjoy the process. #IndiePublishing #SelfPublishing #Authorpreneur #BookBusiness
Nobody Tells Writers How to Do This The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-01 | A WORDSLINGER 10-SHOTNobody really teaches writers how to build the relationships that can change a career.In this Wordslinger 10-Shot, Kevin Tumlinson breaks down how writers can meet authors, agents, publishing professionals, and other people who can help them grow—not by begging for introductions or asking for favors, but by building genuine relationships over time.Kevin shares lessons learned from more than a decade of podcasting, speaking at author conferences, and connecting with writers and publishing professionals around the world. You’ll learn why conferences can be one of the most valuable investments in your career, how to approach successful people without making things awkward, why you should bring something to the relationship instead of immediately asking for something, and how simply following up can turn a quick introduction into a long-term professional connection.Most importantly: Ask. Be kind. Be useful. Accept the no. Keep building your circle.If you’re a writer trying to build a career—not just publish one book—this is a skill worth learning.Subscribe to the Wordslinger channel for practical, experience-based guidance on writing, publishing, building an audience, and creating a sustainable author career.TIMECODES00:00 How do writers meet the right people?01:45 Who should writers connect with?02:55 Asking successful authors for advice03:42 Agents, representation, and making connections04:56 How to approach an agent05:39 Why writers should attend conferences06:17 Relationships take time07:00 Network with writers at your level—and above08:03 Bring something to the relationship08:43 How to meet publishing professionals09:54 Keep track of the people you meet10:50 Following up and accepting rejection11:46 The best networking advice: Ask12:04 Final thoughtsVisit the Knovelton Bookshop at knoveltonbooks.comGET 15% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER AT CHECKOUT WITH CODE STORYCUTSFIND Kevin:Find Kevin and his books:kevintumlinson.comJoin Kevin on Substack:kevintumlinson.substack.comWordslinger Podcast home page:wordslingerpodcast.comSERVICES FOR AUTHORS:Polish your writing and make it ready for publishing with ProWritingAid:tidd.ly/3NCdlk5Publish your book to every major retailer online, get your book into print and ebook, and get support the whole way at Draft2Digital:draft2digital.com/wordslingerFind a virtual assistant to help you market your books (and more!) at AuthorAnchor:authoranchor.comWhat’s the hardest part of networking for you as a writer? Meeting people? Starting the conversation? Following up afterward? Tell me in the comments—and if there’s a writing conference you’d love to attend, drop that in there too.Subscribe and join the Wordslinger community for some of the best practical guidance available for navigating your writing, publishing, and creative career.
Author Reveals Secrets Behind The First Scarlet Door #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-01 | Discover 'The First Scarlet Door,' the newest release from an author with so many projects, they need a poster to remember! Featuring stunning hardcover editions with raised text. This is the book to focus on. #NewRelease #AuthorLife #BookLover #TheFirstScarletDoor
James Pattersons Secret: Accelerate Your Writing Career! #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-01 | From genre choices to business strategy, James Patterson guides a budding author. He shares his wins and losses, streamlining the path to success. It's like fast-lane learning instead of slow-lane guessing. #JamesPatterson #AuthorLife #WritingTips #Mentorship
Finance to Publishing: My Imprint Strategy! #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-01 | From Chief Compliance Officer to publishing powerhouse. Leveraging a legacy publisher's machine for a new imprint with co-authored titles and innovative deals. Embracing the future of publishing. #PublishingDeals #AuthorLife #BusinessStrategy #MediaIndustry #FinanceToPublishing
From Napkin to IPO: Startup Success Secrets Revealed #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-01 | Witness the journey of a napkin sketch transforming into a multi-million dollar public company. The core steps for success remain the same, whether selling bananas or CPUs. #StartupJourney #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #VentureCapital #Innovation
Author Branding Secrets: Why Your Name Matters MORE #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-01 | A unique author name font creates an impression of authority and draws the eye, differentiating you from standard fonts. It builds trust and improves discoverability, much like the Kraft logo. #AuthorBranding #BookMarketing #PublishingTips #AuthorLife
Stallone Producing 4MK Series: HUGE News! #shorts The Wordslinger Show 2026-09-01 | Get ready! Sylvester Stallone's company has acquired the rights to the entire 4MK book series, including prequels. Award-winning showrunner Channing Powell is on board, and Stallone himself might direct! #SylvesterStallone #4MKSeries #BookAdaptation #ChanningPowell #MovieNews
