Podcast
Killer Prose
Hosted by Tanner Rutledge · EN
Killer Prose is the podcast dedicated to the art of crafting mystery and horror fiction, hosted by author Tanner Rutledge. Join Tanner bi-weekly as he delves into the secrets of suspenseful storytelling, featuring interviews with authors, editors, and publishers who specialize in keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
Whether you’re weaving intricate mysteries or conjuring spine-tingling horror, Killer Prose offers practical advice on finishing your manuscript and getting it in front of readers. From plot twists to terrifying atmospheres, this show equips you with the skills and inspiration to captivate your audience and expand your readership.
Tune in and discover how to create gripping, unforgettable stories in the worlds of mystery and horror.
11episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Become a Better Writer With Feedback
Apr 1500:18:10Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Tanner talks about how seeking out feedback has helped him bcome a better writer and audiobook narrator.Connect with the show at https://www.killerprose.comJoin us on Discord: https://discord.gg/9ZnxYbJjEmail me at killerpenbooks@gmail.comFollow my work at https://www.tannerrutledgebooks.comHolly's Writing Classes: https://www.hollyswritingclasses.com/Autocrit: https://www.autocrit.com/Pro Writing Aid: https://prowritingaid.com/Speaks and Squeaks Audiobook Narration / Alice Sockett Audio IG: https://www.instagram.com/alicesockettaudio/reels/Find Philip Tetlock's book at https://www.amazon.com/s?k=expert+political+judgment&adgrpid=185084504103&hvadid=792698172367&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=9013250&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=10890679551762733175--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=10890679551762733175&hvtargid=kwd-302029149257&hydadcr=4574_13551743_2437509&mcid=9f8838a2178930258d8c92023f0a3c14&tag=googhydr-20&ref=pd_sl_w7oyl1kqk_e
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Audiobook Narration: From Setup to Performance
Feb 800:14:11Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Killer Prose, Tanner shares his one-year journey into audiobook narration. He details his initial struggles with recording quality and his gradual shift from podcasting to high-quality VO work. Tanner gets into the technical and financial aspects of setting up a professional recording environment, debunking myths about costly setups. He offers practical advice on equipment, room treatment, and skill development, explaining how he created a professional VO booth on a budget. Tanner also discusses the benefits of producing audio-first content, allowing for a direct connection with audiences and bypassing traditional publishing channels.00:00 Introduction to Audiobook Narration00:58 Setting Up a Professional Recording Studio02:05 Differences Between Podcasting and Audiobook Narration03:11 Building a Home Studio on a Budget09:16 Improving Your Voice Acting Skills10:39 Embracing Audio-First Content13:16 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsConnect with the Killer Prose at: https://www.killerprose.comConnect with me and sign up for my newsletter at https://tannerrutledgebooks.com/Email me at: killerpenbooks@gmail.comConnect with me on FB at: https://www.facebook.com/writingfrightPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/VO Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tannerrutledgevo/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ1HGx45K7dwaYIRJg_VcYQ?themeRefresh=1Joe Zieja's Voice Acting Academy: https://learnvoiceacting.com/
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Author Lessons I learned in 2025
Dec 3000:10:05Tap to summarizeWow, 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 Intro00:54 Goals and Challenges: A Year in Review01:42 Rewriting and Retitling: The Creative Process03:27 Lessons Learned from Podcasting and Writing07:14 Looking Ahead: Goals for 202609:42 Final Thoughts and EncouragementConnect with the Killer Prose at: https://www.killerprose.comConnect with me and sign up for my newsletter at https://tannerrutledgebooks.com/Email me at: killerpenbooks@gmail.comConnect with me on FB at: https://www.facebook.com/writingfrightInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ1HGx45K7dwaYIRJg_VcYQ?themeRefresh=1
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Supercharge Writing Productivity with Dictation
Nov 2500:13:46Tap to summarizeIn 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 Introduction00:48 The Struggles of Typing and Initial Attempts at Dictation02:12 Overcoming Dictation Challenges03:31 Dictation Success and Increased Productivity04:39 Pros and Cons of Dictation06:34 Setting Up for Dictation08:00 Practical Tips for Effective Dictation11:44 Final Thoughts and Upcoming ProjectsConnect with the Killer Prose at: https://www.killerprose.comConnect 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/storeEmail me at: killerpenbooks@gmail.comConnect with me on FB at: https://www.facebook.com/writingfrightInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ1HGx45K7dwaYIRJg_VcYQ?themeRefresh=1
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Middle Grade Horror with Author John Ward
Oct 3000:32:56Tap to summarizeIn 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 Introduction01:07 Meet John Ward: Middle Grade Horror Author01:25 John Ward's Writing Journey03:21 Crafting Middle Grade Horror05:06 Challenges and Insights in Writing for Young Audiences12:05 Transitioning to Adult Horror16:41 The Importance of Book Covers24:30 John Ward's Upcoming Projects25:34 Advice for Aspiring Horror Writers26:28 Tanner's Writing and Show UpdatesConnect with John and find his books at https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0BZBG9DQN?ccs_id=4f6c145e-5a67-4996-8ee7-1e7534f1e303Connect with the Killer Prose at: https://www.killerprose.comConnect 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/storeEmail me at: writingfright@gmail.comConnect with me on FB at: https://www.facebook.com/writingfrightInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ1HGx45K7dwaYIRJg_VcYQ?themeRefresh=1Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/killerprosepodcast
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Story Evolution and Writing Processes with R.M. Galardo
Oct 1300:46:50Tap to summarizeIn 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 Overview01:05 Welcome Back, Rebecca Lardo01:17 The Journey from 'Sister' to 'Traveler'02:05 Challenges and Rewrites04:00 Planning the Series Arc05:23 Character Development and Revisions07:03 Writing Techniques and Inspirations10:33 Balancing Artistic Vision and Market Demands23:53 Balancing Creativity and Commerce25:38 The Importance of Community in Writing28:59 Navigating Critique Groups31:25 Developing a Writing Process34:25 Consistency and Motivation in Writing40:37 Exploring Dictation for Writing44:47 Upcoming Projects and AnnouncementsLinks:Intro & Outro music: Super Strange Synths by YellowTree -- https://freesound.org/s/482961/ -- License: Attribution 4.0Connect 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.comCheck out the merch and support the show at: https://www.killerprose.com/storeEmail me at: killerpenbooks@gmail.comConnect with me on FB at: https://www.facebook.com/writingfrightInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ1HGx45K7dwaYIRJg_VcYQ?themeRefresh=1Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/killerprosepodcastTime Management Episode: https://www.killerprose.com/managing-your-most-valuable-resource-as-a-writer-time/
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Essential Resources for Writers 2025: Updates and Tools
Aug 1500:27:27Tap to summarizeIn 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 Updates02:34 2025 List of Writing Resources02:44 Recommended Writing Classes07:51 Podcasts and Blogs for Writers12:41 Essential Books for Writers15:51 Writing and Editing Software19:11 Cover Design Tips21:19 Marketing Strategies for Authors26:54 Conclusion and Social MediaMy Author Website: https://tannerrutledgebooks.com/Email the show at killerpenbooks@gmail.comLinks to ResourcesClassesHolly's Writing Classes: https://www.hollyswritingclasses.com/Udemy: https://www.udemy.com/Coursera: https://www.coursera.org/PodcastsHelping 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/id984527862Writer's Routine: https://writersroutinedotcom.wordpress.com/Novel Marketing: https://www.authormedia.com/novel-marketing/The Night Crew: https://www.bradricks.com/podcastBooksSuccessful Self Publishing by Joanna Penn (free): https://a.co/d/iNH5W97The Anatomy of Genres by John Truly: https://a.co/d/2C0KnE5How to Write A Mystery edited by Lee Childs from Mystery Writers of America: https://a.co/d/gyyUwO5On Writing Horror from HWA: https://a.co/d/agbWqmNSoftwareScrivianar: https://www.literatureandlatte.com/AutoCrit: https://www.autocrit.com/Pro Writing Aid: https://prowritingaid.com/Atticus: https://www.atticus.io/Cover DesignGet Covers Design: https://getcovers.com/Melbart: https://miblart.com/Ruth anna evens cover design: https://sites.google.com/view/ruthannaevans/home?authuser=0The cover collection: https://www.thecovercollection.com/MarketingBook 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/
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Behind the Scenes: Setting Up My Author Brand
Aug 100:18:54Tap to summarizeIn 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 Update01:04 Preparing for the First Book Release02:28 Pivoting Book Releases and Author Brand05:57 Setting Up Your Author Brand09:39 Budgeting and ISBNs14:12 Audiobooks and Distribution14:52 Writing Courses and Resources17:09 Upcoming Episodes and ConclusionIntro & Outro music: Super Strange Synths by YellowTree -- https://freesound.org/s/482961/ -- License: Attribution 4.0Checkout my author website and sign up for the newsletter at https://tannerrutledgebooks.com/Connect with the Killer Prose at: https://www.killerprose.comCheck out the merch and support the show at: https://www.killerprose.com/storeEmail me at: killerpenbooks@gmail.comConnect with me on FB at: https://www.facebook.com/writingfrightInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ1HGx45K7dwaYIRJg_VcYQ?themeRefresh=1Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/killerprosepodcastCheck 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/
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Managing Your Most Valuable Resource as a Writer: Time
Jul 1500:22:42Tap to summarizeIn 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 Introduction03:00 The Importance of Time Audits05:32 Analyzing and Adjusting Your Schedule11:13 Implementing Time Blocking14:36 Creating Effective To-Do Lists18:32 Personal Updates and Future Plans21:51 Conclusion and Call to ActionIntro & Outro music: Super Strange Synths by YellowTree -- https://freesound.org/s/482961/ -- License: Attribution 4.0Connect with the Killer Prose at: https://www.killerprose.comCheck out the merch and support the show at: https://www.killerprose.com/storeEmail me at: writingfright@gmail.comConnect with me on FB at: https://www.facebook.com/writingfrightInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ1HGx45K7dwaYIRJg_VcYQ?themeRefresh=1Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/killerprosepodcast
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Transforming Your Stories into Audiobooks
Jul 200:21:50Tap to summarizeIn 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 Productions00:49 The Value of Audio Formats01:21 Personal Experiences with Audio02:01 Podcasting Setup and Equipment04:45 Inside the Sound Booth06:44 Hiring a Production Team13:46 DIY Audiobook Production16:05 Recording Tips and Techniques19:15 Conclusion and ResourcesIntro & Outro music: Super Strange Synths by YellowTree -- https://freesound.org/s/482961/ -- License: Attribution 4.0Links: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.comConnect with me on FB at: https://www.facebook.com/writingfrightInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ1HGx45K7dwaYIRJg_VcYQ?themeRefresh=1Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/killerprosepodcast
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