Where's the line between an autobiographical comic and a semi-autobiographical one — between "based upon" and "inspired by"? And when does the whole thing veer directly into fiction?? Plus... Dave Kellett shares real numbers from his recent Kickstarter, and we arrive at a jaw-dropping conclusion: Bluesky is it.

The Webcomics Handbook will publish a visual breakdown of Dave's analytics on April 14th.

Today's show

• Where to draw the line on an autobio comic
• Malignant Procrastination
• Susan MacTaggart's Personal Affirmation
• Dave shares actual numbers from his Kickstarter
• The Wrong Way Show: Toy Story's Woody

Summary

In this episode of ComicLab, hosts Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar share insights on navigating autobiocomics, exploring the balance between fiction and fact in storytelling. The conversation highlights the significance of making personal stories compelling and meaningful for audiences. In this conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar explore the intricacies of storytelling in comics, mainly focusing on autobiographical narratives. They discuss the importance of engaging and meaningful stories, emphasizing that readers seek entertainment and context in narratives. The duo also addresses the common issue of procrastination among creators, urging them to take action and start their projects, regardless of the fear of failure. They highlight that creativity thrives on making choices and moving forward rather than getting bogged down in details.

After Susan MacTaggart drops by to share a personal affirmation for one of ComicLab's $10 backers, Dave Kellett discusses the success of Kellett's recent Kickstarter campaign for his book 'Anatomy of Dogs'. He and Brad explore the sources of backers, the impact of social media platforms like Blue Sky, and the importance of converting followers into actual supporters. The discussion highlights the effectiveness of Kickstarter as a platform for creators and the changing landscape of social media engagement. In this conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar discuss the intricacies of running a successful Kickstarter campaign, the impact of social media on funding, and the importance of maintaining quality in production. They share insights on financials, the long-term benefits of Kickstarter projects, and how to build a sustainable career as an independent cartoonist. The discussion emphasizes the need for careful planning and the value of mental health in the creative process.

Takeaways

• Small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact.
• Every interaction with fans can create memorable moments.
• Autobiocomics need to be engaging, not just factual.
• Never let the truth hinder a good story.
• Context and meaning are crucial in storytelling.
• It's essential to make personal stories relatable.
• Readers care more about the story than the facts.
• Becoming a writer means crafting meaningful narratives. Give yourself the leeway to make your story interesting.
• Readers care about the entertainment value of a story.
• Autobiographical comics often lack excitement and meaning.
• Injecting fiction can enhance storytelling.
• Stories should have a purpose for the reader's life.
• Procrastination can hinder creative aspirations.
• Start with small segments of your story to gain momentum.
• Character designs will evolve; start drawing.
• Don't let the fear of failure prevent you from creating.
• Every choice made in storytelling contributes to the overall narrative.
• This was my most successful Sheldon Kickstarter ever.
• I did not use Twitter at all.
• Blue Sky works for reaching backers.
• The second source was my Patreon for Drive.
• You need to be able to convert those readers into backers.
• Those numbers are fake numbers on social media.
• Kickstarter is a must-use for cartoonists.
• The highest percentage of backers came from Kickstarter sources.
• I was afraid to leave Twitter and Instagram.
• The impact of social media on crowdfunding is significant. The utility of Kickstarter must remain intact for success.
• Social media platforms can significantly impact funding outcomes.
• Quality production is crucial for maintaining a good reputation.
• Kickstarter profits can be amortized over several years.
• Building a mailing list from backers is essential for future campaigns.
• Mental health can improve by choosing the right social media platforms.
• Planning ahead for stretch goals is vital to avoid pitfalls.
• Every Kickstarter project contributes to a larger career strategy.
• Quality materials enhance customer loyalty and future sales.
• Understanding financials helps in making informed decisions.

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

• $2 — Early access to episodes
• $5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.

If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

As they attempt to save the marriage of one of their listeners, Brad and Dave consider the best path for a cartoonist who wishes to pursue a master's degree. Would a Master's in Fine Arts be the right choice, or would a Master's in Business Administration be the better option? Considering the expense, perhaps the best choice is to avoid both! After grappling with that dilemma, Susan MacTaggart stops by to share a personal affirmation with a member of the ComicLab community.

Today's Show

• Is a Master's Degree in comics worthwhile?
• Susan MacTaggart's Affirmation
• UPDATE: Brad and Dave's Wikipedia pages
• Mixing word-balloon styles

Summary

In this episode, the hosts discuss the importance of education for cartoonists, debating the merits of pursuing a Master's in Fine Arts (MFA) versus a Master's in Business Administration (MBA). The discussion highlights the value of writing skills in comics and the necessity of understanding business principles in today's publishing climate. In this episode, the hosts delve into the intersection of art and marketing, discussing the value of formal education, such as an MFA, in developing a creative career. They explore the importance of self-teaching versus structured learning, emphasizing personal growth and the impact of higher education on career paths. The conversation also touches on community engagement through personal affirmations and mid-show updates, culminating in discussing word balloon techniques in comics. In this episode, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett delve into the intricacies of comic storytelling, focusing on the use of word balloons and their aesthetic implications. They discuss the evolution of comic communication, the philosophy behind how comics convey messages, and the unique structure of two-panel comics. The conversation highlights the balance between visual elements and text, exploring how these components enhance storytelling in comics.

Takeaways

• Education in the arts should focus on writing, not just drawing.
• An MFA may not provide the specific skills needed for comics compared to an MBA.
• Understanding business and marketing is crucial for independent cartoonists today.
• Higher education can provide a shortcut to knowledge that would take years to learn otherwise.
• Not all education needs to have a direct financial return on investment.
• The subjective nature of art can complicate grading in MFA programs.
• Scholarships can help alleviate the financial burden of higher education.
• Choosing between an MFA and an MBA depends on personal career goals and interests. The art itself is not enough; marketing plays a crucial role.
• An MFA can provide valuable insights into salesmanship and marketing.
• The experience gained from an MFA depends on the student's openness to feedback.
• Many successful cartoonists do not have an MFA, indicating it's not essential for success.
• Self-teaching can be as effective as formal education, depending on the individual's learning style.
• Personal growth and happiness can come from pursuing higher education, even if it doesn't directly impact career success.
• Community engagement is vital for creators, as seen in the personal affirmations segment.
• Word balloon techniques vary based on the comic's style and background complexity.
• The hosts share humorous anecdotes about their Wikipedia pages, highlighting the challenges of self-presentation.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of adapting techniques to fit the evolving art style. Word balloons can affect the aesthetics of a comic.
• Using a floater can conserve space in a panel.
• Breaking up dialogue into multiple balloons improves readability.
• Floaters can convey whispers or asides effectively.
• Aesthetics sometimes dictate the choice between word balloons and floaters.
• The history of word balloons reflects the evolution of comic art.
• Comics often rely on a visual punchline that follows a setup.
• Two-panel comics can exist in greeting cards and other formats.
• The construction of comics can influence how they are perceived.
• The philosophy of comic communication is complex and evolving.

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

• $2 — Early access to episodes
• $5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.

If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

When does a running gag stop being funny — and where does it start, for that matter? Cartoonists Brad and Dave must first agree on what a running gag is! Next, they'll talk about aesthetics — in other words, how does one develop their editorial eye? Finally, Dave reviews his accounting from last year's San Diego Comic-Con and discusses how it influences his decisions for this year's show.

Today's Show

• When does a running gag go too far?
• Developing an editorial eye
• UPDATE: San Diego Comic-Con numbers

Summary

In this episode of Comic Lab, hosts Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar explore the nuances of humor in comics, focusing on the use of running gags and tropes. They discuss the importance of timing, audience familiarity, and the subjective nature of humor. The conversation also delves into the challenges of building an audience in webcomics and the significance of developing an editorial eye for creators. Through various examples, they highlight how running gags can engage audiences while cautioning against overuse. In the next topic, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett discuss the importance of critical reading and learning from excellent and poor comic industry works. They emphasize the need for creators to develop an editorial eye by consuming a wide range of content, understanding audience expectations, and being open to honest feedback. The episode finally touches on the economic realities of attending comic conventions, particularly San Diego Comic-Con, and how creators can navigate the changing landscape of the comic industry.

Takeaways

• Running gags can enhance humor but must be used wisely.
• Timing and audience familiarity are crucial in comedy.
• The rule of threes is a guideline for running gags.
• Developing an editorial eye takes time and practice.
• Reading a variety of comics helps improve your craft.
• Surprise is a key element in effective humor.
• Character-driven comedy can create memorable running gags.
• Webcomics require a different approach to running gags than print comics.
• Familiarity can trigger emotional responses beyond humor.
• The balance of surprise and familiarity is essential in comedy. Reading with a critical eye is necessary for creators.
• Learning from both great and poor works is valuable.
• Understanding why certain choices are made in storytelling is crucial.
• Diverse reading helps inform your creative process.
• Feedback is vital, but discernment is necessary to know what to take.
• Comic conventions can be economically challenging for creators.
• The landscape of comic creation has changed significantly over the years.
• Creators must adapt to modern audience expectations.
• Honest feedback can be hard to accept but is necessary for growth.
• Networking at conventions should be weighed against potential losses.

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

• $2 — Early access to episodes
• $5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.

If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Social media has convinced an entire generation of creators to focus on numbers — followers, subscribers, likes, shares, and other engagement metrics. However, focusing on numbers can often lead an artist to make bad decisions.

Today's Show

• Focusing on numbers
• Limiting comments on BSky
• UPDATE: Hoganmag.com
• Lost the Kickstarter mojo
• Comic book vs graphic novel

Summary

In this conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar discuss recent updates on Blue Sky, a social media platform, and how it offers a healthier commenting environment. They emphasize the importance of quality followers over quantity, sharing insights from their own experiences with Kickstarter campaigns and the ineffectiveness of traditional social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram. The conversation concludes with a focus on engagement metrics and the need for creators to prioritize passionate followers rather than simply chasing numbers. In this conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad discuss the importance of building the right audience for comics, emphasizing the shift from merely increasing follower counts to fostering passionate engagement. They explore the challenges of navigating social media changes, the necessity of embracing change in the webcomics industry, and the emotional toll of crowdfunding campaigns like Kickstarter. The discussion culminates in advice for rekindling motivation and finding joy in the creative process amidst uncertainty. In this conversation, Brad and Dave explore the emotional and practical aspects of running Kickstarter campaigns, the importance of market testing, and the structural elements that contribute to a successful project. They also discuss the significance of listening to one's inner voice during creative endeavors and reflect on the differences between comic books and graphic novels, emphasizing the evolution of sequential art.

Takeaways

• Organizing your workspace can be a form of avoidance.
• Blue Sky's new commenting features promote a healthier online environment.
• Quality followers are more valuable than a large follower count.
• Kickstarter success can be achieved without relying on traditional social media.
• Engagement metrics should focus on passionate followers, not just numbers.
• Turning off public comments can improve mental well-being for creators.
• Social media platforms should be evaluated based on their effectiveness for business.
• Creators should prioritize platforms that allow for direct engagement with their audience.
• The herd mentality in social media can lead to poor decision-making. Building the right audience is crucial for success.
• Focusing on passionate engagement is more important than follower counts.
• Social media platforms can change, and so should your strategy.
• Embrace change as a constant in the webcomics industry.
• Kickstarter campaigns can be emotionally exhausting but are part of the process.
• It's natural to feel doubt after a failed campaign.
• Finding joy in the creative process is essential for motivation.
• You are not alone in your struggles as a creator.
• Being pragmatic about social media is key to success.
• Every upheaval in the industry can lead to new opportunities. Challenges can ignite motivation and creativity.
• Finding personal motivation is key to success.
• Kickstarter serves as a valuable market testing tool.
• Emotional tolls are part of the creative process.
• Structuring your Kickstarter effectively can lead to better outcomes.
• Listening to your inner voice can guide your decisions.
• Evaluating past projects helps in future planning.
• The distinction between comic books and graphic novels is significant.
• Comic books are often seen as disposable, while graphic novels are more permanent.
• Creative paths may need reevaluation based on market feedback.

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

• $2 — Early access to episodes
• $5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.

If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Brad and Dave discuss finding the right balance between visual and verbal. Dave asks if too much worldbuilding is an excuse to avoid actually writing the story. And a listener asks if it's a good idea to approach your Patreon as a customer-service job.

Today's show

• Verbal vs. Visual
• UPDATE: DogKickstarter.com
• UPDATE: The Wrong Way Show draws Shrek
• Worldbuilding vs. actual writing
• Is Patreon like a customer service job?

Summary

In this episode, cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar delve into a discussion about the art of storytelling in comics, focusing on the balance between visual and verbal elements. The hosts explore how to effectively convey humor and plot points, emphasizing the importance of skill development in the medium of comics. In this conversation, Brad and Dave explore the intricacies of comic creation, emphasizing the importance of self-critique, the challenges of world-building versus storytelling, and the value of short stories in honing writing skills. They also discuss the excitement and strategies behind running a successful Kickstarter campaign, highlighting community engagement and personal anecdotes. In this conversation, Brad and Dave explore the intersection of customer service skills and creative work, particularly in the context of managing a Patreon. They discuss the importance of empathy, professionalism, and the balance between listening to customer feedback and maintaining creative integrity. Personal anecdotes from their early jobs provide insight into the skills that can be transferred to creative endeavors while emphasizing that the customer's perspective should not dictate creative decisions.

Takeaways

• Gardening can be a therapeutic hobby during tough times.
• Citrus grafting allows for the creation of unique fruit varieties.
• The balance between visual and verbal storytelling is crucial in comics.
• Some jokes are best conveyed visually, while others require words.
• Skill development is a continuous journey for comic creators.
• Reviewing past work helps identify growth and areas for improvement.
• Visual humor can create a more substantial impact than verbal humor in specific contexts.
• Understanding the audience's expectations is key to compelling storytelling.
• Experimentation is essential for growth in creative fields.
• Creating a compelling narrative often requires a mix of both visuals and text. Self-critique is essential for growth in comic creation.
• Bravery in execution can lead to improvement.
• World-building should not overshadow storytelling.
• Short stories are crucial for developing writing skills.
• Engaging with the community can enhance project visibility.
• Mistakes are part of the learning process in comics.
• Visual and verbal storytelling require different approaches.
• Kickstarter campaigns can be exhausting but rewarding.
• Feedback from peers is invaluable for improvement.
• The act of writing reveals the true nature of a story. Short stories allow for experimentation in world building.
• Customer service skills are valuable in managing Patreon campaigns.
• Empathy and professionalism are key in customer interactions.
• It's important to assume the best intentions from customers.
• Never listen to one reader; always consider the audience as a whole.
• The customer's always wrong when it comes to creative decisions.
• Feedback from patrons should inform, not dictate, creative choices.
• Maintaining creative integrity is essential for artists.
• Personal experiences shape our understanding of customer service.
• Rhetoric plays a powerful role in communication and engagement.

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

• $2 — Early access to episodes
• $5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.

If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

A listener seeks writing advice. How can you motivate readers to engage with a story that has an unhappy ending? Additionally, Dave's new DogKickstarter.com, tips for responding to inquiries from "civilians," and the importance of personal branding when posting on social media.

Today's Show

• How to write an unhappy ending
• UPDATE: DogKickstarter.com
• Questions from civilians
• Posting politics on social media

Summary

In this conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar explore the importance of character wants and needs in storytelling, and how to create satisfying yet unhappy endings that resonate with audiences. In this conversation, Dave  and Brad discuss various narrative techniques in storytelling, particularly focusing on how to engage audiences through subverting expectations, making journeys worthwhile, and crafting satisfying character arcs. They also touch on the importance of unhappy endings that feel earned, using examples from popular films. Additionally, they share insights on Kickstarter strategies for comic artists, emphasizing the significance of tracking engagement and adapting to audience responses. In this conversation, Brad and Dave explore the complexities of social interactions, particularly in the context of pursuing creative careers. They discuss the importance of understanding the motivations behind casual conversations and the superficial nature of social niceties. The dialogue shifts to the challenges of engaging with audiences on social media, especially regarding political discourse, and the pitfalls of seeking validation through online engagement. They emphasize the value of building a passionate audience over merely chasing numbers, and the dangers of slacktivism, where social media activity gives a false sense of accomplishment without real-world impact.

Takeaways

• Writing a tragedy involves the same principles as other stories.
• Character Wants and Needs are crucial in storytelling.
• Foreshadowing can create a sense of inevitability in narratives.
• Emotional hooks are essential for audience engagement.
• Not all stories need a happy ending to be satisfying.
• Catharsis can come from tragic outcomes.
• Characters can have bittersweet endings that resonate emotionally.
• The choice of where to end a story defines its genre.  Cinematic guilty pleasures can be surprisingly engaging.
• Subverting audience expectations can enhance storytelling.
• The journey in a narrative is as important as the ending.
• Unhappy endings can be satisfying if they feel earned.
• Character arcs should lead to emotionally satisfying conclusions.
• Kickstarter strategies can significantly impact project success.
• Tracking engagement helps identify effective promotional channels.
• Building a narrative involves using the same principles for different outcomes.
• Friendship and collaboration can enhance creative projects.
• Understanding audience expectations is key to effective storytelling. You don't need to justify yourself to others.
• Most people are just trying to be polite.
• Engagement on social media doesn't always translate to meaningful connections.
• It's okay to keep conversations superficial with strangers.
• Building a passionate audience is more valuable than a large one.
• Political posts can alienate potential fans.
• Slacktivism can give a false sense of accomplishment.
• Focus on your brand and what you want to communicate.
• Real-world actions are more impactful than social media posts.
• Everyone is navigating life awkwardly, regardless of age.

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

• $2 — Early access to episodes
• $5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.

If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

What are independent comic creators' most reliable revenue streams — and which are the worst? Brad ranks them from top to bottom, and Dave shares his own experiences with each. Also, the guys share the strategy that's making Patreon's "Collections" feature a solid income generator.

Today's show

• Webcomics Revenue Streams Ranked Best to Worst
• UPDATE: USPS Ground Advantage
• UPDATE: Patreon Collections 
• Should you include credits for digital fontmakers in books?

Summary

Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar delve into the various income streams available to comic creators, comparing crowdfunding platforms like Patreon and Kickstarter, and discussing the importance of commissions, freelance work, and merchandise sales. The conversation wraps up with a light-hearted mention of Comic-Con income and the challenges comic creators face in the industry. In the mid-show updates, Dave Kellett and Brad discuss the significance of USPS Media Mail for shipping and the recent developments in Patreon Collections amidst economic uncertainties. Brad and Dave discuss the economic challenges facing creators, particularly in light of rising costs and potential trade wars. They explore strategies for adapting to these changes, such as adjusting Patreon tiers to accommodate supporters' financial situations. The conversation then shifts to the often-overlooked topic of font credit in comics, questioning why font designers are not acknowledged in the same way as letterers. They emphasize the importance of recognizing the contributions of font creators and suggest that doing so could set a new standard in the industry.

Takeaways

• Patreon is a top income stream for creators.
• Kickstarter offers big swings in income.
• Digital commissions can be lucrative.
• Physical rewards on Patreon can be problematic.
• Sales of printed merchandise are important.
• Comic-Con can be a significant income source.
• Understanding income streams is crucial for success. Comic-Con can be profitable but comes with risks.
• Digital merchandise sales can provide better profit margins.
• Diverse income streams are crucial for financial stability.
• Merchandise sales often yield lower profits due to costs.
• Day jobs are a valid source of income for many artists.
• Media mail is essential for affordable shipping of books.
• Patreon collections can be a surprising revenue source.
• Economic challenges may impact artists' income streams.
• Understanding costs is vital for convention profitability.
• Experimenting with new income strategies is important.  Economic challenges are impacting creators' income.
• Adjusting Patreon tiers can help retain supporters.
• Hedging bets is a smart strategy in uncertain times.
• Font credit in comics is often overlooked.
• Acknowledging font designers could elevate the industry.
• Younger creators often follow the practices of established ones.
• Listing fonts used in comics could become a new norm.
• Digital lettering has changed how fonts are accessed.
• Creators should consider the impact of tariffs on their work.
• Engaging with supporters through lower tiers can maintain connections.

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

• $2 — Early access to episodes
• $5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.

If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Brad Guigar has categorized the information shared by creative individuals into three groups. Dave Kellett has a couple of his own to contribute. Of the five, only one is useful. Identifying the others can help you avoid making some significant mistakes.

Today's show

• Types of information creative people share
• UPDATE: Brad Guigar celebrates 25 years in comics
• Story pacing

Summary

In this episode, Brad and Dave discuss the information shared among creative individuals, categorizing them into facts, marketing, and herd mentality. The discussion highlights the importance of discerning between genuine facts and marketing tactics. Dave suggests the list should include misinformation and bad actors in the creative community. In this episode, Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar discuss the realities of book signings, networking, and celebrating milestones in one's career, particularly in the comic industry. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences and reflect on the mental health benefits of recognizing achievements. The conversation then shifts to writing advice, focusing on story pacing, exposition, and actionable strategies for aspiring writers to improve their craft.

Takeaways

• Sharing information among creatives is essential for growth and learning.
• Facts are verifiable truths that can help guide creative decisions.
• Marketing often skews perceptions and can lead to poor decision-making.
• Herd mentality can mislead creatives into following trends without critical thinking.
• Misinformation can come from well-intentioned but uninformed sources.
• Bad actors exist in the creative community, and caution is necessary.
• Understanding the difference between marketing and facts is crucial for success.
• Social media is primarily a marketing tool for many creators.  Book signings often don't attract large crowds.
• Celebrating career milestones can boost mental health.
• Reflecting on past achievements can provide motivation.
• Each page of a comic should be satisfying on its own.
• Writers should focus on manageable story lengths.
• Use visuals effectively to enhance storytelling.
• Avoid information dumps in storytelling.
• Create tension through micro-tension techniques.
• Leave breadcrumbs for readers to follow in the narrative.

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

• $2 — Early access to episodes
• $5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.

If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

This week's episode is sponsored by Hogan's Alley magazine! We'll discuss those moments in our careers when we said, "F*** me! That actually worked!" Also, a listener writes in to say that they want to take our advice and make the jump to Bluesky, but it causes too much anxiety.

Sponsor

Hogan's Alley magazine sponsors this week's episode!  In the next issue, they'll cover the Tijuana Bibles and much more! Get your copy now!

Today's Show

• Hogan's Alley magazine
• "F*** me! That actually worked!"
• UPDATE: Diamond Comics Distributors
• UPDATE: The Wrong Way
• "Bluesky stresses me out!"

Summary

In this episode, Dave and Brad are pleased to welcome the sponsorship of Hogan's Alley Magazine! The conversation starts with  a discussion about unexpected successes in the comics industry, sharing personal anecdotes and insights on what works in webcomics and the importance of niche topics. In this conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad discuss their evolving experiences with monetization in the comic industry, reflecting on their initial skepticism towards various platforms like T-shirts, advertising, and crowdfunding. They share personal anecdotes about their misjudgments regarding new technologies and trends, emphasizing the importance of humility and adaptability in their careers. Two mid-show updates touch on the recent bankruptcy of Diamond Comics Distributors and their new show, The Wrong Way. In this conversation, Brad and Dave discuss the challenges and anxieties surrounding social media for artists, particularly in building an online presence while focusing on their craft. They explore the importance of self-promotion, the consequences of delaying engagement with social media, and the potential of new platforms like Blue Sky. The discussion emphasizes the need for artists to balance their creative work with the realities of marketing and audience building while addressing the mental health aspects of sharing their work online.

Takeaways

• Hogan's Alley Magazine is a significant resource for comic history.
• Niche topics in webcomics can lead to unexpected success.
• Webrings can significantly boost site traffic and engagement.
• Comics history is often overlooked but is vital for understanding the medium.
• The internet favors focused, passionate content over general interest.
• Understanding your audience is key to successful cartooning.
• Comics can be both serious and joyful, reflecting their cultural impact. T-shirts as a monetization strategy were initially surprising.
• Advertising proved to be a lucrative avenue for comics.
• Skepticism towards Kickstarter was common in its early days.
• Technological advancements can change the way comics are created and consumed.
• Vertical scrolling comics have become a preferred format for mobile readers.
• Humility is crucial in recognizing when to adapt to new trends.
• Keeping an eye on peers can lead to valuable learning opportunities.
• The bankruptcy of Diamond Comics marks a significant moment in the industry.
• Independent comics are evolving beyond traditional distribution methods.
• Embracing discomfort can lead to growth and new opportunities. Focus on improving your craft before engaging on social media.
• If social media causes anxiety, it's okay to wait.
• Blue Sky is currently a growing platform for audience building.
• Social media fatigue is a common issue for artists.
• Self-promotion is essential for making a living from art.
• Building an audience takes time and effort.
• Sharing your work gets easier with practice.
• Consider the consequences of delaying social media engagement.
• It's important to find a balance between art and marketing.
• Artists can impact the world even as a hobby.

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

• $2 — Early access to episodes
• $5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.

If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

We're heading into a year promising significant upheaval — in business, social media, publishing, and more. But, after twenty-five years of self-publishing, cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar have learned an important lesson: Discomfort is crucial in growing as an artist — and as a businessperson.

Today's show

• Embrace discomfort
• Listifications on Bluesky —  https://bsky.app/profile/listifications.app

Summary

In this conversation, cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar explore the importance of discomfort in personal and artistic growth, emphasizing that taking risks is essential for creativity. The duo reflects on their experiences in the comic industry, discussing the challenges of adapting to change and the innovator's dilemma faced by established artists. They conclude with insights on the necessity of continuous learning and adaptation in a rapidly evolving landscape. In this conversation, Dave and Brad discuss the challenges and opportunities of innovation in creative careers, emphasizing the importance of embracing discomfort and taking risks. They explore various strategies for creative growth, including collaboration and mentorship, and share insights on navigating social media dynamics, particularly with new platforms like Blue Sky. The discussion highlights the significance of being proactive in one's career and the emotional complexities of online interactions.

Takeaways

• Discomfort is essential for growth as artists and individuals.
• Creativity thrives in uncomfortable situations.
• It's important to embrace change and adapt in the comic industry.
• The innovator's dilemma can hinder progress in established fields.
• Continuous learning is crucial for long-term success.
• Taking risks can lead to new opportunities and growth.
• Complacency can be detrimental to artistic development.
• Understanding the market is key to adapting one's work.
• Creativity is a superpower that can be harnessed through discomfort. Innovation can be hindered by comfort in established success.
• Bill Holbrook exemplified foresight in adapting to new media.
• Taking risks in creative projects can lead to personal fulfillment.
• Exploring new art methods can rejuvenate creativity.
• Collaboration can enhance productivity and creativity.
• Embracing discomfort is essential for growth in any career.
• Social media dynamics require careful navigation to maintain presence.
• Understanding audience reactions on social media is crucial.
• Mentorship can provide fresh perspectives and energy.
• Planning for future projects can prevent stagnation in creativity.

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• $2 — Early access to episodes
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Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.