Podcast

Killer Prose

Hosted by Tanner Rutledge · EN

Killer Prose is the podcast dedicated to the art and busness of indie horror and crime writing, hosted by author/voice actor Tanner Rutledge. Join Tanner 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.

15episodes

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Episodes

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Newest first

Maximizing Your Audiobook's Potential: A Guide to Working with Narrators with Alice Sockett
2w ago00:49:56Tap to summarize
In today's episode, I interview award winning audiobook narrator, Alice Sockett. We talk about what it's like to work with a professional narrator, how to find the right voice, and mistakes to avoid so you get the most out of your audiobook. Connect with Alice:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alicesockettaudio/?hl=enCompanies mentioned in this episode:ACX: https://www.acx.comAudible: https://www.audible.com/SAG Aftra: https://www.sagaftra.org/Speaks and Squeaks: Subscribe on IG - https://www.instagram.com/alicesockettaudio/?hl=enConnect with the showJoin the Discord Community for live Writing Sprints: https://discord.gg/xkm9TPMzzbKiller Prose Podcast: https://www.killerprose.com/Tanner Rutledge: https://tannerrutledgebooks.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KillerProse6645Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/?hl=enNarration IG: https://www.instagram.com/tannerrutledgevo/?hl=enemail me: killerpenbooks@gmail.com
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Writing Series People Want to Read with Brad Ricks
4w ago00:36:02Tap to summarize
In the episode, I talk to author Brad Ricks about his series, The Night Crew. We chat about what it's like to write a series vs. a stand-alone, writing a monster/case of the week format while weaving in overarching plot points, and the importance of strong, relatable characters.Connect with Brad and his books athttps://bradricks.comhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GX2YGMYG?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallbackJoin Brad's FB Group: http://facebook.com/groups/bradricksbookcryptConnect with the showJoin the Discord Community for live Writing Sprints: https://discord.gg/xkm9TPMzzbKiller Prose Podcast: https://www.killerprose.com/Tanner Rutledge: https://tannerrutledgebooks.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KillerProse6645Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/?hl=enNarration IG: https://www.instagram.com/tannerrutledgevo/?hl=enemail me: killerpenbooks@gmail.com
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Word Choice: Elevate Your Fiction Writing
Jul 700:14:47Tap to summarize
Word selection in fiction writing profoundly influences the narrative's tone and atmosphere, guiding the reader's emotional experience. Specificity in language allows for deeper insights into character. In this episode, I dig into word choice and how it can help you craft vivid worlds that keep your readers connected.Connect with me:Join the Discord Community for live Writing Sprints: https://discord.gg/xkm9TPMzzbKiller Prose Podcast: https://www.killerprose.com/Tanner Rutledge: https://tannerrutledgebooks.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KillerProse6645Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/?hl=enNarration IG: https://www.instagram.com/tannerrutledgevo/?hl=enemail me: killerpenbooks@gmail.com
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Why I'm Hiring a Publishing Coach
Jun 3000:15:47Tap to summarize
In this episode, I talk about the crucial role coaching has played in my voice acting and audiobook narration journey, and the importance of investing in the same professional guidance for writing. I look back on my six-year journey as a writer and how my initial focus on craft (while important) didn't help me with the business side of publishing, which is essential for success.Resources mentioned in this episode:Voice Acting Academy: https://learnvoiceacting.com/Speaks and Squeaks: https://www.instagram.com/alicesockettaudio/?hl=enSelf Publishing Show: https://www.learnselfpublishing.com/podcast-sps-audioLearn Self Publishing/Self Publishing Launchpad Class: https://www.learnselfpublishing.com/AutoCrit Novel 90: https://www.autocrit.com/novel-90-writing-challenge-summer-g/?gc_id=23224406104&h_ad_id=&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23215107735&gbraid=0AAAAABeZvfwnP34TEf9M-MRmdoWdm_6S1&gclid=CjwKCAjw0o3SBhBVEiwAh28-jehMSFfpHhmYmiMzlNSNT-I7N0b1URj0SCJCegGSQ4mtxldR8zgvERoCobAQAvD_BwEConnect with me:Killer Prose Podcast: https://www.killerprose.com/Tanner Rutledge: https://tannerrutledgebooks.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KillerProse6645Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/killerprosepodcast/?hl=enNarration IG: https://www.instagram.com/tannerrutledgevo/?hl=enemail me: killerpenbooks@gmail.com
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Become a Better Writer With Feedback
Apr 1500:18:10Tap to summarize
In 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 summarize
In 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 summarize
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 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 summarize
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 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 summarize
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 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 summarize
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 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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