Wow, I really missed the mark on some of my 2025 goals. In this episode, I talk about what went wrong, what went right, and what I learned along the way.

00:00 Intro

00:54 Goals and Challenges: A Year in Review

01:42 Rewriting and Retitling: The Creative Process

03:27 Lessons Learned from Podcasting and Writing

07:14 Looking Ahead: Goals for 2026

09:42 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Connect with the Killer Prose at: https://www.killerprose.com

Connect with me and sign up for my newsletter at https://tannerrutledgebooks.com/

Email me at: killerpenbooks@gmail.com

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ1HGx45K7dwaYIRJg_VcYQ?themeRefresh=1

In this episode, Tanner discusses how dictation has significantly improved his writing speed, doubling or tripling his output in the first draft stage. He shares his initial challenges and the benefits he discovered, such as increased productivity and more effective use of liminal times. He provides practical tips for getting started with dictation using simple tools like a smartphone and earbuds, and highlights the pros and cons of incorporating dictation into a writer's workflow.

00:00 Introduction

00:48 The Struggles of Typing and Initial Attempts at Dictation

02:12 Overcoming Dictation Challenges

03:31 Dictation Success and Increased Productivity

04:39 Pros and Cons of Dictation

06:34 Setting Up for Dictation

08:00 Practical Tips for Effective Dictation

11:44 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Projects

Connect with the Killer Prose at: https://www.killerprose.com

Connect with Tanner and sign up for the newsletter at https://tannerrutledgebooks.com/

Check out the merch and support the show at: https://www.killerprose.com/store

Email me at: killerpenbooks@gmail.com

Connect with me on FB at: https://www.facebook.com/writingfright

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ1HGx45K7dwaYIRJg_VcYQ?themeRefresh=1

In this episode of Killer Prose, Tanner sits down with John Ward, author of the Scareville series, to discuss the nuances of writing middle-grade and adult horror. John shares his journey into writing, including early influences like Goosebumps, his writing process, and how he approaches crafting horror stories for younger audiences. They get into the challenges of transitioning between middle-grade and adult horror, the importance of updating horror for modern audiences, and practical advice for new writers. The episode also covers John's new projects, including his upcoming adult horror novel, 'Black and Heart, Black and Soul.'

Then, Tanner provides updates on creating a writer's community, moving live writing sprints to Discord, and his own experiences with using dictation to enhance productivity.

00:00 Happy Halloween and Introduction

01:07 Meet John Ward: Middle Grade Horror Author

01:25 John Ward's Writing Journey

03:21 Crafting Middle Grade Horror

05:06 Challenges and Insights in Writing for Young Audiences

12:05 Transitioning to Adult Horror

16:41 The Importance of Book Covers

24:30 John Ward's Upcoming Projects

25:34 Advice for Aspiring Horror Writers

26:28 Tanner's Writing and Show Updates

Connect with John and find his books at https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BZBG9DQN?ccs_id=4f6c145e-5a67-4996-8ee7-1e7534f1e303

Connect with the Killer Prose at: https://www.killerprose.com

Connect with Tanner and sign up for the newsletter at https://tannerrutledgebooks.com/

Check out the merch and support the show at: https://www.killerprose.com/store

Email me at: writingfright@gmail.com

Connect with me on FB at: https://www.facebook.com/writingfright

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ1HGx45K7dwaYIRJg_VcYQ?themeRefresh=1

Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/killerprosepodcast

In this episode of Killer Prose, Tanner sits down with author R.M. Galardo to discuss her latest book, 'Traveler,' and its development from her initial work, 'Sister.' They talk about the complexities of series writing, exploring how 'Heirloom' evolved into 'Traveler' and the lessons learned during the writing journey. The conversation also highlights the importance of writing courses and communities, particularly Holly's Writing Classes, and the specific tools, like the Octopus Map used for plotting.

Tanner wraps things up by sharing updates on his own writing process and the practicality of using dictation to manage workload and boost productivity.

00:00 Introduction and Overview

01:05 Welcome Back, Rebecca Lardo

01:17 The Journey from 'Sister' to 'Traveler'

02:05 Challenges and Rewrites

04:00 Planning the Series Arc

05:23 Character Development and Revisions

07:03 Writing Techniques and Inspirations

10:33 Balancing Artistic Vision and Market Demands

23:53 Balancing Creativity and Commerce

25:38 The Importance of Community in Writing

28:59 Navigating Critique Groups

31:25 Developing a Writing Process

34:25 Consistency and Motivation in Writing

40:37 Exploring Dictation for Writing

44:47 Upcoming Projects and Announcements

Links:

Intro & Outro music: Super Strange Synths by YellowTree -- https://freesound.org/s/482961/ -- License: Attribution 4.0

Connect with R.M. Garlardo at https://www.rmgalardo.com/

Check out Holly's Writing Classes at https://www.hollyswritingclasses.com/

Sign up for the free Flash Fiction Course at https://www.hollyswritingclasses.com/course/how-to-write-flash-fiction-that-doesnt-suck-the-free-class/

Checkout my author website and sign up for the newsletter at https://tannerrutledgebooks.com/

Connect with the Killer Prose at: https://www.killerprose.com

Check out the merch and support the show at: https://www.killerprose.com/store

Email me at: killerpenbooks@gmail.com

Connect with me on FB at: https://www.facebook.com/writingfright

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ1HGx45K7dwaYIRJg_VcYQ?themeRefresh=1

Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/killerprosepodcast

Time Management Episode: https://www.killerprose.com/managing-your-most-valuable-resource-as-a-writer-time/

In this episode of the Killer Pros podcast, Tanner updates listeners on his list of resources for writers in 2025. Tanner discusses valuable tools and platforms he uses for every stage of the writing process, from learning and drafting to editing and marketing. The episode includes his go-to classes, writing communities, and podcasts, as well as essential software and services for writing and publishing, such as Scrivener, AutoCrit, and ProWritingAid. Tanner also provides updates about changes to the podcast schedule and his website, focusing on making more time for Truly Odd and other writing projects.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Updates

02:34 2025 List of Writing Resources

02:44 Recommended Writing Classes

07:51 Podcasts and Blogs for Writers

12:41 Essential Books for Writers

15:51 Writing and Editing Software

19:11 Cover Design Tips

21:19 Marketing Strategies for Authors

26:54 Conclusion and Social Media

My Author Website: https://tannerrutledgebooks.com/

Email the show at killerpenbooks@gmail.com

Links to Resources

Classes

• Holly's Writing Classes: https://www.hollyswritingclasses.com/
• Udemy: https://www.udemy.com/
• Coursera: https://www.coursera.org/

Podcasts

• Helping Writers Become Authors: https://www.helpingwritersbecomeauthors.com/
• Writers Ink: https://writersinkpodcast.com/
• Self Publishing Insiders: https://www.draft2digital.com/blog/category/self-publishing-insiders-podcast/
• The Creative Penn: https://www.thecreativepenn.com/the-creative-penn-podcast-for-authors/
• The Writer Files: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-writer-files-writing-productivity-creativity/id984527862
• Writer's Routine: https://writersroutinedotcom.wordpress.com/
• Novel Marketing: https://www.authormedia.com/novel-marketing/
• The Night Crew: https://www.bradricks.com/podcast

Books

• Successful Self Publishing by Joanna Penn (free): https://a.co/d/iNH5W97
• The Anatomy of Genres by John Truly: https://a.co/d/2C0KnE5
• How to Write A Mystery edited by Lee Childs from Mystery Writers of America: https://a.co/d/gyyUwO5
• On Writing Horror from HWA: https://a.co/d/agbWqmN

Software

• Scrivianar: https://www.literatureandlatte.com/
• AutoCrit: https://www.autocrit.com/
• Pro Writing Aid: https://prowritingaid.com/
• Atticus: https://www.atticus.io/

Cover Design

• Get Covers Design: https://getcovers.com/
• Melbart: https://miblart.com/
• Ruth anna evens cover design: https://sites.google.com/view/ruthannaevans/home?authuser=0
• The cover collection: https://www.thecovercollection.com/

Marketing

• Book Bub: Author pages: https://authorwebsites.bookbub.com/
• Tertulia: https://tertulia.com/
• Story Origin: https://storyoriginapp.com/
• Kitt: https://kit.com/
• Substack: https://substack.com/
• Writer Word Media: https://www.writtenwordmedia.com/

In this episode of the Killer Pros podcast, Tanner provides an update on his time management strategies, leading to significant progress in his writing and author brand development. Tanner discusses his upcoming debut novel, the transition from writing 'Hant' to focusing on the 'Whisper Hollow Mystery' series, and the essential steps in setting up his author brand and publishing business. He touches on the complexities of ISBN acquisition, the importance of audiobooks, and the need for meticulous budget planning. Additionally, Tanner mentions the valuable writing courses he is taking to enhance his manuscript revision process. The episode concludes with teasers for future solo episodes focused on writing craft and a special 2025 resources list for writers.

00:00 Introduction and Time Management Update

01:04 Preparing for the First Book Release

02:28 Pivoting Book Releases and Author Brand

05:57 Setting Up Your Author Brand

09:39 Budgeting and ISBNs

14:12 Audiobooks and Distribution

14:52 Writing Courses and Resources

17:09 Upcoming Episodes and Conclusion

Intro & Outro music: Super Strange Synths by YellowTree -- https://freesound.org/s/482961/ -- License: Attribution 4.0

Checkout my author website and sign up for the newsletter at https://tannerrutledgebooks.com/

Connect with the Killer Prose at: https://www.killerprose.com

Check out the merch and support the show at: https://www.killerprose.com/store

Email me at: killerpenbooks@gmail.com

Connect with me on FB at: https://www.facebook.com/writingfright

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ1HGx45K7dwaYIRJg_VcYQ?themeRefresh=1

Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/killerprosepodcast

Check out Holly's Writing Classes at https://www.hollyswritingclasses.com/

Time Management Episode: https://www.killerprose.com/managing-your-most-valuable-resource-as-a-writer-time/

In this episode of the Killer Podcast, Tanner shares insights on how writers can take control of their time to enhance productivity and achieve their long-term goals. Tanner discusses his personal experience with time management, including how his chaotic day job and family life led him to conduct a time audit. He explains three powerful strategies: time audits to track where your time is going, time blocking to schedule important activities, and list-making to stay focused. Tanner also shares practical tips on identifying time-wasting activities, streamlining tasks, and ensuring that personal and family time are prioritized. Additionally, he offers a glimpse into his writing journey and emphasizes the importance of simplifying tools and tech to maintain focus on writing goals.

00:00 Introduction

03:00 The Importance of Time Audits

05:32 Analyzing and Adjusting Your Schedule

11:13 Implementing Time Blocking

14:36 Creating Effective To-Do Lists

18:32 Personal Updates and Future Plans

21:51 Conclusion and Call to Action

Intro & Outro music: Super Strange Synths by YellowTree -- https://freesound.org/s/482961/ -- License: Attribution 4.0

Connect with the Killer Prose at: https://www.killerprose.com

Check out the merch and support the show at: https://www.killerprose.com/store

Email me at: writingfright@gmail.com

Connect with me on FB at: https://www.facebook.com/writingfright

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ1HGx45K7dwaYIRJg_VcYQ?themeRefresh=1

Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/killerprosepodcast

In this episode of The Killer Prose Podcast, Tanner takes you into the world of audio productions, focusing on turning written stories into audiobooks, podcasts, or YouTube content. Tanner discusses the value and benefits of audiobooks, the process, and expenses involved, and details the equipment and setup needed for professional narration. He explains the difference between dynamic and condenser microphones, the importance of a sound-treated space, and his personal experiences with audio formats. Tanner also provides insightful tips for those considering hiring a voice actor or undertaking a do-it-yourself audiobook project, including setting a budget, finding the right voice actor, and practicing voice techniques. Additionally, he shares his plans for an upcoming audio fiction project and the benefits of engaging with a broader audience through audio media. The episode aims to equip authors with the knowledge to expand their reach and enhance their storytelling through audio.

00:00 Introduction to Audio Productions

00:49 The Value of Audio Formats

01:21 Personal Experiences with Audio

02:01 Podcasting Setup and Equipment

04:45 Inside the Sound Booth

06:44 Hiring a Production Team

13:46 DIY Audiobook Production

16:05 Recording Tips and Techniques

19:15 Conclusion and Resources

Intro & Outro music: Super Strange Synths by YellowTree -- https://freesound.org/s/482961/ -- License: Attribution 4.0

Links:

Finding a voice actor:

Voice 123: https://voice123.com/

Casting Call Club: https://www.castingcall.club/

ACX: https://www.acx.com/

Findaway Voices: https://www.findawayvoices.com/

Podcasting a audio elearning:

School of Podcasting: https://schoolofpodcasting.com/

Learn Voice Acting: https://learnvoiceacting.com/

Get Great Audio Equipment at Sweetwater: https://www.sweetwater.com/

Check out my other show Truly Odd: https://www.trulyoddpod.com/

Connect with the Killer Prose at: https://www.killerprose.com

Connect with me on FB at: https://www.facebook.com/writingfright

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ1HGx45K7dwaYIRJg_VcYQ?themeRefresh=1

Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/killerprosepodcast