The Wordslinger Podcast Most People Don’t Actually Want to Be Writers
23 snips
Feb 12, 2026 A frank take on why wanting to have written is different from wanting to be a writer. Short bursts on the lonely, long-haul grind and why execution beats ideas. Practical talk about AI, idea liability, and when collaborations make sense. Tips on daily habits, protecting your work, and choosing stability while you build a writing life.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Writers Versus Authors
- Kevin Tumlinson distinguishes 'writers' (who write continuously) from 'authors' (who have written once).
- Writing is an active identity you maintain by doing the work regularly.
Don't Use AI To Replace Your Craft
- Avoid outsourcing creative work to AI if your goal is to be a working writer.
- Use AI only if your goal is merely to see a story exist, not to practice craft or build a writing career.
Protect Yourself From Idea Requests
- Decline requests to 'write my idea' without clear partnership terms or contracts.
- Use NDAs or IP agreements if you must hear someone else's idea to avoid later claims.
