The Wordslinger Podcast

• Subversive Art and Indie Publishing with Johnny B. Truant

  Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Sponsored by: ProWritingAid – Level up your writing with 20% off! Use code KEVIN20 at checkout In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson welcomes back Johnny B. Truant for a deep dive into the future of publishing, the rise of the "Artisan Author," and the power of subversive art in a rapidly changing industry. They explore how indie authors can thrive by embracing creativity, community, and direct reader relationships—plus thoughts on pricing strategies, career resilience, and why now is the time to go your own way. The conversation is filled with personal stories, industry insight, and actionable advice for writers who want to shape their own path.Show Links:- ProWritingAid (prowritingaid.com) - AI-powered editing tool for writers. Use code KEVIN20 for 20% off.- Johnny B. Truant Artisan Author Book/Kickstarter - (johnnybtruant.com/artisan) - Sign up for the upcoming Artisan Author Kickstarter and learn more about Johnny’s new book.- Kevin’s Substack (kevintumlinson.substack.com) - Regular updates, essays, and behind-the-scenes insights.Watch on YouTubeKey Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:00] - Opening & introduction to Johnny B. Truant [00:03:14] - Indie vs traditional publishing: the shifting landscape [00:07:25] - Sponsor mention: ProWritingAid [00:12:25] - The rise of the “Artisan Author” & subversive art [00:18:58] - Stories that change minds: subversion in fiction & comedy [00:26:32] - Commercial success vs. artistic integrity [00:41:06] - Book pricing: value, perception, and the artisan difference [00:51:57] - Direct sales, community building & launching on Kickstarter [00:59:13] - Using AI as a tool for indie authors [01:01:32] - The importance of creative network & peer support [01:10:00] - Following your passion despite challenges [01:17:28] - The case for betting on yourself and your dreamsLooking for more inspiration and savvy publishing strategies? Subscribe and hit the notification bell to join the Wordslinger community! 🔔Got feedback or questions? Drop them in the comments, and let’s keep the conversation going. Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

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  1:20:03
• Disrupting Healthcare PLUS Balancing Fiction and Nonfiction with Dr. Marschall Runge

  Full show notes and more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Check out our sponsor: ProWritingAid – Level up your writing and editing! Get 20% off using code KEVIN20 at checkout (visit: https://prowritingaid.com/?utm_source=wordslinger&utm_medium=partner-podcast&utm_campaign=YT-alwayson&utm_content=&utm_term=)In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson sits down with Dr. Marschall Runge—Dean of the University of Michigan Medical School, CEO of Michigan Medicine, and author of both fiction and nonfiction. Dive into a fascinating conversation about the future of healthcare, groundbreaking medical tech, the role of AI in medicine, and how writing thriller fiction compares to penning nonfiction. Whether you’re a writer or a health innovation enthusiast, this chat is packed with insights that could change the way you see both industries!Show Links:* Dr. Marschall Runge’s website: https://drmarschallrunge.com – Learn more about his books, including "The Great Healthcare Disruption" and "Coded to Kill."* ProWritingAid: https://prowritingaid.com/ – Powerful editing tools for writers; use code KEVIN20 for 20% off.* Kevin’s Substack: Weekly writing tips, updates, and Kevin’s blog.WATCH ON YOUTUBE:⏰ Key Topics & Timestamps:[00:01:09] – Marschall Runge’s medical background and dual writing career[00:06:55] – “The Great Healthcare Disruption”: Cost, access, and bold solutions[00:11:01] – Wearable technology, the rise of health apps, and consumer-driven medicine[00:14:36] – AI in healthcare: Shortages, efficiency, and the future doctor-patient relationship[00:18:53] – Preventive care, medical innovations, and gene therapies[00:22:10] – Comparing fiction and nonfiction writing as an expert in medicine[00:30:10] – Marschall’s next novel: The quest for longevity and the science behind it[00:34:11] – Lessons from Blue Zones and global health best practices[00:45:49] – Kevin on research, outlining, and how AI assists (but doesn’t replace) writers[01:14:23] – Closing thoughts: embracing new tools and storytelling evolutionReady for cutting-edge discussions in health and storytelling? Like, subscribe, and hit the bell to stay up-to-date on new episodes! 🔔Got story questions? Reach out at WordslingerPodcast.com—Kevin loves hearing from you! Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

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  1:17:49
• Career Pivots for Writers: Crafting the Same But Different Book for Future Success

  Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Our sponsor highlight: Author AnchorConnect with professional author assistants and VAs for just $7.50/hour! Boost your productivity, free up your time, and focus on writing.🔗 Author Anchor – Affordable virtual assistants for authorsReady to level up your writing career? In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson dives deep into the art (and necessity) of career pivots for authors. He opens up about his evolving approach to writing, strategic planning for new releases, and how authors can prepare for industry shifts and career transitions. Whether you're an indie writer or aiming for traditional publishing success, Kevin shares actionable insights for building a sustainable, flexible, and thriving creative career.Tune in for:Smart strategies for “same but different” booksThe real talk on switching up your writing processLessons from consulting in publishing & affiliate marketingInsights into using outlining versus pantsingTips for managing your creative evolution and author brandShow links:Author Anchor — Virtual assistant service for authors (Sponsor: connect with skilled VAs at $7.50/hr)Publisher Rocket — Discover profitable keywords and categories for your books; ask about affiliate opportunities!Kevin’s Contact Page — Send your questions for future podcast Q&AsWriters Inc Podcast — Weekly industry news and bestselling author interviews with Kevin, JD Barker & more⏰ Key Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:02] — Welcome and Austin weather update[00:04:13] — Consulting in publishing & Author Anchor overview[00:05:35] — Publisher Rocket affiliate tips[00:06:22] — Writing updates & prepping follow-up books[00:08:01] — “Same but different”: Building your career with strategic books[00:10:53] — Outlining versus pantsing and Kevin’s Scrivener method[00:18:06] — Avoiding typical story beats and rebooting your outline[00:20:40] — Publishing updates & upcoming opportunities[00:21:18] — How to submit questions for Writers Inc/WordSlinger[00:22:48] — Final thoughts and call to action🔥 Hungry for authentic writing advice and behind-the-scenes publishing intel? Hit subscribe, drop a comment, and ring that bell so you never miss an episode of Wordslinger!#writing #authorlife #publishing #WordslingerPodcast #KevinTumlinson Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

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  23:12
• Author Success Hacks: Using YouTube and Virtual Assistants for Growth

  Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯Meet the virtual assistants of Author Anchor in this live webinar. Join us Wednesday, 21 May at 10 AM Central!Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/0g2WVnGOQT2uAhCenEyuKg#/registrationIn this episode, Kevin Tumlinson sits down with author and YouTuber Keith Wheeler to dive deep into the world of low content books, building a thriving YouTube channel, and working with author assistants and virtual assistants (VA) to supercharge your author business. Keith shares insights into publishing puzzle books (like word searches and unique formats), creating children's books, and leveraging VAs for social media, newsletters, and content research. You'll get actionable advice on delegating tasks, integrating AI tools, and maximizing your writing and promotional efforts—no matter what stage you're at!Show Links:- Author Anchor (https://authoranchor.com) – Connect with vetted author assistants and virtual assistants- Book Brush (https://bookbrush.com) – Platform for author marketing tools, behind Author Anchor- K. Wheeler Books on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@kwheelerbooks) – Keith Wheeler’s YouTube channel for indie authors- Keith’s Socials (https://www.instagram.com/kwheelerbooks | https://www.tiktok.com/@kwheelerbooks) – Find Keith on Instagram & TikTok for more tipsThis episode's sponsor is ProWritingAid – Advanced editing for authors (Sponsor)Key Topics & Timestamps: [00:00:00] – Intro & Episode overview[00:03:58] – Sponsor: ProWritingAid[00:07:10] – Keith’s book catalog: Children’s, YA, puzzle books[00:10:09] – Low content vs. no content books explained[00:14:06] – Why Keith started his YouTube channel for authors[00:16:25] – Parallels between launching a book and launching a YouTube channel[00:20:14] – Newsletter, social media, & content repurposing with a VA[00:25:34] – How Keith’s VA supports research, author tasks & idea generation[00:27:03] – Integrating AI tools for efficiency in publishing[00:31:57] – Best practices for onboarding and working with a VA[00:34:52] – Social media growth & reporting with VA support[00:37:58] – Key lessons & perspective shifts after hiring a VA[00:38:58] – Where to find Keith online[00:41:40] – Writer community, conferences, & retreats[00:58:05] – More about Author Anchor & finding the right VA for you[01:00:42] – Final thoughts: Is a VA right for your author business?Looking for more actionable writing and publishing tips? Hit subscribe and tap the notification bell to never miss a Wordslinger episode! 🔔#writingtips #selfpublishing #authorbusiness #virtualassistant #YouTubeForAuthors #puzzlebooksWatch on YouTube: Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

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  1:03:02
• Harnessing Discipline and Flexibility for Creative Success as a Writer

  Discover more at WordslingerPodcast.com🎯 Check out our sponsor:ProWritingAid – Use code KEVIN20 for 20% off at checkout! CLICK HEREFeeling stuck or burnt out in your writing routine? In this episode, Kevin Tumlinson brings a refreshing perspective on the power of rest, reflection, and flexibility as part of the creative process. Drawing from both personal stories and professional practice, Kevin dives into how balancing discipline with downtime can actually make your writing life more fulfilling—and more productive. Whether you’re a seasoned author or just getting started, you’ll find practical tips on building healthy routines, aligning daily tasks with creative goals, and embracing the necessity of taking a beat to recharge.You’ll also hear:* Why rest and meditation are critical to creative work* The evolving routines of a full-time writer* How to use discipline and flexibility to reach your goals* Advice for integrating contemplation and journaling into your processShow Links:* WordslingerPodcast.com – Podcast home, past episodes, and more!* Kevin’s Substack – Regular updates, archives, and insights* ProWritingAid – Advanced editing tool for writers (Sponsor – Get 20% off with code KEVIN20)Key Topics & Timestamps: * [00:00:00] – Personal update & the inspiration for this episode * [00:06:37] – The challenge of balancing work, relationships, and routine* [00:08:55] – Building daily rituals: walks, journaling, and writing targets* [00:12:28] – Adapting writing discipline to real life * [00:14:03] – The value of rest: Sabbath, rhythm, and creative rejuvenation* [00:15:57] – Practical writing advice: flexibility and setting realistic goals* [00:22:20] – Editing processes, collaboration insights, and leveling up your craft * [00:25:31] – The joy of creation and embracing the beats between the notes * [00:26:13] – Connect, subscribe, and closing thoughtsLooking for more real-world strategies to supercharge your writing and enjoy the process?Subscribe, hit the notification bell, and join the Wordslinger community for future episodes! 🔔The Writer_ is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. Get full access to The Writer_ at kevintumlinson.substack.com/subscribe

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  28:22

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