The Casual Author

Adjusting Your Schedule When Life Changes (Homestead + Author Update) | Podcast Ep. 164Dan Kenner shares episode 164 (recorded Friday, February 20, 2026) about staying productive as an author when life changes force schedule adjustments. He explains a recent break in posting, his desire to keep the podcast going, and his ongoing interest in interviews. He gives homestead updates, including an unusually warm, muddy winter in Idaho affecting animal care; the kids enjoying spring-like weather but missing sledding; and animals doing well overall. He describes taking over afternoon hand-milking of their cow Lucy to help streamline evenings and get to bed earlier, including the learning curve and physical strain, along with updates on muddy pigs, water issues in the pig pen, and replacing the battery in the chickens’ automatic coop door after months of manual opening/closing. He notes recent archery competitions and a shift toward a busier homestead season. On the author side, he’s continuing to write (about 1,000 words on weekdays), working to get ahead on short stories for his Ream subscription, and planning to return to finishing book six of the Hidden Heritage Series. He mentions improved website purchasing options (dankenner.com or dankennerbooks.com), growing local word-of-mouth readership, and positive feedback comparing his Libber Chronicles to Ranger’s Apprentice. He also uninstalled Instagram and TikTok due to distraction and stress. The main topic focuses on flexibility: adjusting sleep and work routines, breaking tasks into smaller time blocks as work stress increases, accepting slower progress, and maintaining a consistent connection to writing rather than stopping entirely. He encourages listeners to trust their instincts, shift writing times as needed, avoid turning creativity into only checkboxes, reevaluate regularly, and share their own strategies and feedback.00:00 Welcome Back Episode 16400:50 Podcast Hiatus Update02:18 Homestead Winter Weirdness04:09 Learning To Milk Lucy07:20 Mud Pigs And Butcher Plans09:04 Chicken Door Fix10:50 Archery And Seasonal Pace11:13 Author Progress And Ream12:08 Website Wins And Reader Praise14:19 Quitting Social Media Apps15:34 Flex Your Schedule19:31 Two Choices When Life Changes21:00 Find The Writing Magic22:51 Trust Your Gut And Reevaluate24:39 Wrap Up And Listener Call

Optimizing Non-Writing Time for Maximum Writing ProductivityBuy my clean fantasy books www.dankennerbooks.comJoin my Ream community for exclusive short stories and early access chapters! https://reamstories.com/dankennerIn this episode of the Casual Author, Dan Kenner discusses the importance of using time outside of writing sessions to improve productivity during writing sessions. Despite a busy lifestyle with homesteading activities and authoring tasks, Dan emphasizes the need to give the brain space for creativity and imagination through activities like chores, exercising, and periods of quiet reflection. He also shares updates on his writing projects, including new releases and his experiences with setting up a direct sales platform. Additionally, Dan talks about the practical challenges of managing livestock and the impact of fluctuating weather on their care. This episode offers insights on maintaining creativity and productivity as a busy author.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:01 Weather and Animal Management02:18 Feeding Strategies for Livestock07:04 Pig Watering Challenges10:55 Author Updates and New Releases16:32 Maximizing Writing Productivity33:29 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

SummaryIn this episode, Dan Kenner engages with KimBoo, a seasoned author and productivity expert, to discuss her insights on time management and the writing process. KimBoo shares her unique approach to setting guideposts for her writing projects, emphasizing the importance of saying no to distractions and focusing on what truly matters. She reflects on her journey from fan fiction to original works, highlighting the evolution of her writing career and the impact of technology on storytelling. The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing personal life with writing ambitions, as well as the significance of maintaining a holistic view of productivity that integrates both work and life responsibilities.Throughout the discussion, KimBoo provides practical advice for aspiring writers, including the value of serialization in storytelling and the necessity of having a structured system for managing projects. She encourages listeners to reflect on their goals and the decisions that shape their writing journeys, ultimately advocating for a mindset that embraces both creativity and discipline. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to enhance their writing practice and navigate the complexities of the authorial life.Buy my books at www.dankennerbooks.comGet exclusive short stories and early chapters at https://reamstories.com/dankennerFind out more about KimBoo and her books at https://houseofyork.info/Check out my previous episode with KimBoo - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0oElAkawGPkChapters00:00:00 Introduction and Background and Homestead Update00:09:08 Author and Book Update00:13:55 Interview with KimBootime management, writing process, productivity 

SummaryIn this episode of The Casual Author, Dan Kenner shares insights on managing life as an author while dealing with the chaos of family and homesteading. He discusses the importance of keeping creativity fresh to combat burnout, shares updates on his authoring journey including the publication of his new book 'Dwarf Blooded', and offers practical tips for maintaining productivity and creativity in writing.TakeawaysFollow my Ream Page to read The Measure of Control! - https://reamstories.com/dankennerPurchase my newest book, Dwarf Blooded - https://dan-kenner-books.myshopify.com/products/dwarf-blooded-paperback?variant=43918598340707Keeping it fresh helps you be more productive.Burnout is a real thing that many authors face.It's important to manage life chaos while writing.Taking breaks can help rejuvenate creativity.Writing short stories can cleanse your creative palette.You can still be productive even with a busy life.Engaging with different projects can spark new ideas.It's okay to step back from a project if you're feeling stuck.You don't have to publish everything you write.Feedback from listeners is valuable for content improvement.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Keeping It Fresh15:32 The Journey of Authoring and New Releases20:09 Burnout and Creativity: Finding Fresh Perspectives

SummaryIn this episode, Dan Kenner discusses the challenges of managing overwhelm, particularly in the context of indie authoring and self-publishing. He shares personal anecdotes from his life on the homestead, updates on his publishing journey, and insights into the importance of setting realistic goals and taking breaks to maintain creativity and productivity. The conversation emphasizes the need for balance between work and personal well-being, especially for those juggling multiple responsibilities.www.dankenner.comwww.dankennerbooks.comwww.reamstories.com/dankennerTakeawaysOverwhelm affects everyone to varying degrees.Managing overwhelm is crucial for productivity.Setting realistic goals can help mitigate overwhelm.Taking breaks is essential for creativity.Social media may not align with everyone's goals.It's important to celebrate achievements in publishing.Family responsibilities can add to feelings of overwhelm.Understanding personal limits is key to managing stress.Finding joy in writing can help combat overwhelm.Regularly reviewing goals can clarify priorities.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Overwhelm in Authoring13:09 Updates on the Homestead and Authoring Journey17:52 Understanding Overwhelm and Its Impact33:24 Strategies for Managing Overwhelmoverwhelm, indie authoring, self-publishing, productivity, managing stress, Dwarf-Blooded, Kenner Homestead, writing tips, author updates, family life

Summary In this episode of The Casual Author, Dan Kenner discusses effective time management strategies for authors, emphasizing the importance of celebrating small milestones and making progress in short bursts. He shares his personal experiences with productivity, the challenges of balancing writing with family life, and the significance of having a prioritized task list. Dan encourages listeners to embrace flexibility in their planning and to be patient with themselves as they navigate their writing journeys.Find my books at www.dankenner.comTakeaways* Using 15-minute increments can help manage time effectively.* Celebrating small wins is crucial for motivation.* Productivity can be achieved in small time blocks.* Creating a prioritized task list can enhance focus.* Flexibility in planning is important for busy lives.* Finding the right time of day for tasks boosts efficiency.* Reading in small increments can help maintain focus.* It's essential to be patient with oneself during the process.* Using tools like app blockers can minimize distractions.* Progress is more important than perfection.Chapters00:00Introduction and Context10:21Celebrating Milestones in Writing16:29Productivity Strategies for Authors30:39Final Thoughts and Encouragementwriting, productivity, author, milestones, time management, Dwarf Blooded, casual author, podcast, Dan Kenner, creativity

SummaryIn this episode of The Casual Author, Dan Kenner shares updates from his homestead, discussing the challenges of cold weather and its impact on livestock care. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in the author business, sharing personal experiences and insights on how being true to oneself can lead to greater success in connecting with readers and selling books. Dan also reflects on the challenges of social media and the value of podcasting as a more authentic platform for engagement. He invites listeners to join the community and share their experiences as aspiring authors.TakeawaysCheck out my books and other information at www.dankenner.com Get early access to my books and monthly short stories at https://reamstories.com/dankennerAuthenticity is key to connecting with your audience.Cold weather presents unique challenges on the homestead.Pigs can be surprisingly destructive in winter.Cows have interesting behaviors to stay warm.Chickens are generally easier to manage in cold.Social media can feel inauthentic for some.Podcasting allows for more genuine connections.Success looks different for every author.Engaging with the community is vital for growth.Writing should align with your authentic self.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Updates on Homestead Life09:52 Navigating the Challenges of Cold Weather on the Homestead19:52 The Importance of Authenticity in Authoring23:45 Final Thoughts and Community Engagementauthenticity, author business, homestead life, writing tips, podcasting, community engagement, productivity, personal updates, cold weather challenges, author success

SummaryIn this conversation, Charles Hack discusses his unique approach to time management, emphasizing the importance of working in 15-minute increments. He shares how this method allows him to balance various aspects of his life, including family time and personal discipline, ultimately enhancing his productivity.TakeawaysWorking in 15-minute increments can enhance productivity.Time management is crucial for balancing work and personal life.Discipline is key to maintaining focus on tasks.Increments of time can include personal activities like dinner and sleep.Concentration is essential for completing tasks effectively.Creating a structured approach to time can lead to better outcomes.Personal discipline can be developed through consistent practice.Balancing multiple responsibilities requires effective time allocation.Time management techniques can be tailored to individual needs.Finding a method that works for you is essential for success.Link to Kickstarter Page for Honor Anthology https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/zsdiamanti/honor-special-edition-sci-fi-and-fantasy-anthology?ref=5xunbe

Keywordscreativity, writing, self-discovery, authenticity, author updates, productivity, indie publishing, personal growthSummaryIn this episode of The Casual Author, Dan Kenner shares personal updates about his life on the homestead, including the challenges of managing animals and family activities. He transitions into discussing his creative journey, emphasizing the importance of understanding oneself as a creative individual. Dan reflects on the noise and advice that can overwhelm new authors and stresses the significance of trusting one's intuition and authenticity in the creative process. He concludes by encouraging listeners to embrace their unique paths in writing and creativity.Takeawayswww.kindlepreneur.comThe Creative Penn Podcast, by Joanna Pennhttps://selfpublishingformula.com/Understanding yourself is crucial for creativity.Trusting your intuition can enhance productivity.The creative process is often filled with noise and advice.Editing can be a daunting task for many authors.Authenticity is key in creative expression.It's important to filter advice based on personal resonance.Finding what works for you is a journey of self-discovery.Engaging with your audience authentically is more rewarding than social media.Creative output can improve when you embrace your unique style.Don't feel pressured to conform to others' methods. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Updates on Life09:23 Creative Progress and Writing Journey16:02 Understanding Yourself as a Creative28:46 Navigating Feedback and Advice31:06 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this conversation, Dan Kenner discusses the challenges faced by aspiring authors and introduces the 'little by little' principle as a strategy for overcoming time constraints. He emphasizes the importance of defining personal success, setting clear goals, and recognizing that progress can vary for each individual. By focusing on small, consistent steps, writers can maintain motivation and satisfaction in their journey.TakeawaysSpecial Kick Starter - https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/zsdiamanti/honor-special-edition-sci-fi-and-fantasy-anthology?ref=5xunbeFollow Dan on Ream for Monthly fantasy stories and early chapters - https://reamstories.com/dankennerThe little by little principle helps aspiring authors manage time.Success looks different for everyone; define it personally.Setting clear goals is crucial for progress.Progress can be small leaps; consistency matters.Feeling comfortable with your direction is important.Understanding personal progress is key to motivation.Time management is essential for writers.Celebrate small victories in your writing journey.Define what success means to you as an author.Stay motivated by focusing on your unique goals.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Little by Little Principle00:47 Embracing Progress: The Little by Little Mindset