A ComicLab member complained about following too many people on Bluesky. It was too difficult for them to cultivate a feed that suited their interests! This brought up a topic that has Dave and Brad divided: Are you on social media for business or pleasure?

Today's Show

• You're not on social media to read
• UPDATE: Spice Rack Comics webring (NSFW) — special thanks to Matt Sowers at RCSI Publishing
• UPDATE: Dave and Brad's transposed faces
•  Started too soon on Patreon

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar explore various themes related to comics, social media, and community building. They discuss the challenges of navigating Bluesky Starter Packs and the innovative idea of reviving web rings to foster community among comic creators. Their humorous banter and differing perspectives provide valuable insights for aspiring cartoonists and social media users. In the following conversation, they explore the dynamics of collaboration in creative projects, particularly focusing on establishing a webring for cross-promotion among cartoonists. They discuss the importance of lists, group agreements, and the balance between individual creativity and collective efforts. The conversation also delves into the challenges of managing a Patreon account, the significance of audience building, and the lessons learned from past experiences in comic creation. Ultimately, they emphasize the value of growth and learning from one's creative journey.

Takeaways

• An authoritative accent can shape perceptions.
• Social media should be used strategically, not just for reading.
• Starter packs can lead to overwhelming follow lists.
• Curating your social media feed is essential for focus.
• Building a community is crucial for comic creators.
• Webrings can enhance cross-promotion among creators.
• Engagement on social media can lead to audience growth.
• Being selective with follows can prevent overwhelm.
• Humor and personality can enhance social interactions.
• Experimenting with new strategies can yield positive results. Collaboration can enhance creativity but comes with challenges.
• A webring can be a powerful tool for cross-promotion.
• Clear agreements are essential in group projects.
• The benefits of collaboration can outweigh the costs.
• It's important to have a process for ad approval in a web ring.
• Patreon should be approached with a focus on audience building first.
• Reflecting on past experiences can lead to growth.
• There is no such thing as wasted time in creative pursuits.
• Learning from mistakes is crucial for future success.
• Evaluating your creative direction is important after years of work.

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. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

As we begin a new year, cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar make their predictions for 2025 and share their goals for the next twelve months.

Predictions

• DAVE: Business planning anxiety
• BRAD: Because of Dave’s prediction, the winners will be people who help address that anxiety. (That’s us!) Be the distraction/escape people need; they won’t forget you. 
• DAVE: Bluesky at 50M by the end of the year
• BRAD: Substack gains prominence — rises to Kickstarter/Patreon levels
• DAVE: we’ll all be playing reactionary, whack-a-mole life choices for the first two years of the trump admin. Until the midterm elections, when it might calm slightly. 
• BRAD: AI will go mainstream and start to gain acceptance among artists and writers
• DAVE: Kickstarter and Patreon continue to be market leaders. No change on the horizon for that
• BRAD: Printing is on the decline under tariffs. And we might be working with small US printers to do smaller books.
• DAVE: in publishing, YA & kids will continue to dominate the career path of published cartoonists. 
• BRAD: Non-social media options will grow, hopefully including RSS
• DAVE: Webtoons might begin to fall apart in the US market. Their Hollywood goals are not working, and they were playing the long game toward THAT in terms of accumulating debt 
• DAVE: I will have to raise prices on all my books. Or cut features in my books. No more metallic foils, spot gloss, or bookmarks…you’re just getting a bare-bones book. 

Goals

• BRAD: Survive
• DAVE: Survive
• BRAD: EiAD v3 or Webcomics Handbook
• DAVE: ANATOMY OF DOGS Kickstarter 
• BRAD: Build Spice Rack Comics into an example of what you can do with the webring / collective concept. Suggest that this is the time to start building quasi-collectives.
• DAVE: Triple down on Bluesky in the 4-6 years before enshittification 
• BRAD: Lean into KDP for After Dark books
• DAVE: Triple down on Bluesky
• DAVE: Launch and start building THE WRONG WAY. I have been planning it for over a year. 
• DAVE: Focus on one of the few things I can control: my family's happiness and health. Outlive the fuckers and try not to let them steal my joy. I find solace in friendships at Alaska Camp and SDCC. 
• DAVE: if we can’t do books, do we do more smaller Quickstarter?
• DAVE: Is this the time to start on Substack?

Summary

In this episode, the hosts discuss a range of topics, including a personal quest for a long-lost book, Wimpy the Wellington, predictions for the comic industry in 2025, the anxiety surrounding business planning for cartoonists, and the evolving role of cartoonists in providing relief during turbulent times. They also explore the rise of new platforms like Blue Sky and Substack and the potential mainstream acceptance of AI in the creative fields. In this conversation, Brad Guigar and his co-host discuss the evolving role of AI in creative processes, emphasizing its potential as an assistant rather than a replacement for artists and writers.

They make predictions for 2025, including the impact of tariffs on print publishing, the continued dominance of YA and kids' books, and the uncertain future of Webtoons in the U.S. market. The discussion also touches on the concept of 'shrinkflation' in publishing, where features may be reduced due to economic pressures.

Ultimately, both hosts express a shared goal of survival in a changing industry landscape. In this episode, the hosts discuss their goals and predictions for 2025, focusing on the importance of social media platforms like Blue Sky, the launch of a new project called The Wrong Way, and the innovative approach of Spice Rack Comics. They also touch on adapting to market changes, personal goals, and the significance of community support in the creative industry.

Takeaways

• Cartoonists have a significant impact on their audience's mental health.
• Business planning in the comic industry is becoming increasingly complex.
• The rise of platforms like Blue Sky may change social media dynamics.
• Substack is poised to become a major player in content monetization.
• Anxiety will be a common theme in the coming years for creators.
• AI's acceptance in the creative industry is on the horizon.
• The importance of community and support among creators is paramount.
• Predictions for the future can help guide current decisions.
• The role of humor and distraction in art is vital during tough times. AI will be used as a writing assistant, not a replacement.
• Ethically sourced AI can enhance creative processes.
• Print publishing is expected to contract significantly due to tariffs.
• YA and kids' books will continue to dominate the market.
• Webtoons may struggle in the U.S. market moving forward.
• Shrinkflation will affect the features of published books.
• Survival is the primary goal for creators in 2025.
• Economic changes will force a reevaluation of publishing strategies.
• The creative industry must adapt to new market dynamics.
• The future of comics relies on navigating these challenges. Tripling down on Blue Sky is a strategic move for growth.
• The Wrong Way project is set to launch in 2025.
• Spice Rack Comics aims to innovate web rings and promote collaboration.
• Adapting to market changes is crucial for sustainability.
• Personal goals should focus on what can be controlled.
• Community support is essential for success in creative fields.
• Digital income sources are becoming increasingly important.
• Maintaining joy and personal happiness is a priority.
• Nostalgia can be a refuge during uncertain times.
• Building a supportive network can enhance creative endeavors.

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. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

At the beginning of the year, Dave and Brad made a series of predictions and set some personal goals for the year. The year is over, and it's time to see how they fared.

Predictions for 2024

• BRAD: Twitter will crash in 2023 2024
• DAVE: Social media will remain distributed over five or six platforms
• BRAD: Web users will begin to pivot away from social media
• DAVE: Patreon will move closer to an IPO
• BRAD: Kickstarter will remain #1 by continuing to avoid mentioning blockchain
• DAVE: SDCC will return to normal after an abnormal '23... and profits will plummet for creators

Things we DIDN'T see coming!

• AI snuck up on us in 2024 — No one predicted that!
• Bluesky snuck up on us, too!

Goals for 2024

• DAVE: Launch "Pickles" Kickstarter in Jan/Feb, launch "Drive 4" Kickstarter in summer
• BRAD: In Q1, Kickstart an Evil Inc book paired with an After Dark edition. Kickstart another book — Webcomics Handbook, Evil Inc After Dark or collection of single-panel comics — in Q2/Q3
• DAVE: Prepare for a 5-15% sales drop at Comic-Con International
• BRAD: Personal appearances, including SDCC and NCS
• DAVE: ComicLab Across America
• BRAD: Use NON-social-media alternatives to drive Patreon.
• DAVE: Revisit KIndle Direct Publishing
• BRAD: Start prepping website for a post-Patreon future
• DAVE: Build the ComicLab Patreon to 500 members

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. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

A father is concerned that comics no longer reach kids, suggesting that video games are the better value measured by engagement time. What can we do to reverse this trend? 

On today's show

• How can comics reach kids?
• UPDATE: Buffer (see addendum below)
• How can I avoid Trump's tariffs? (see other addendum below)

Addendum

One day after we recorded the drop that explained that Buffer did not support video uploads, they made an announcement. You guessed it — they've added that functionality. They still do not support adding content moderation labels.

Other addendum

During the campaign, President Trump made tariffs a large part of his platform. He pitched a wide range of tariffs and scenarios. He suggested a tariff of between 60 and 100% on goods imported from China, a tariff on cars imported from Mexico that ranged from 100% to 200%, he threatened John Deere with a 200% tariff if they outsourced to Mexico. During our discussion, we took the worst-case scenario — 200%. On Nov. 26, Trump solidified his economic plans, promising executive orders on Day One that would levy a 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada with an additional 10% tax on Chinese imports. The upshot of the conversation remains the same: These costs will be passed along to American consumers and businesspeople (like us), and you would be wise to build these additional expenditures into any Kickstarter campaigns you have planned for 2025.

Summary

In this conversation, the hosts explore how parents can encourage reading among kids, the value of libraries, and community initiatives to promote access to books. In this conversation, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett discuss the evolving landscape of social media, particularly focusing on the emerging platform Blue Sky. They share their experiences with various social media platforms, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changes and seizing opportunities for audience engagement. The discussion also touches on the potential of illustrated novels as an alternative storytelling medium, considering the labor-intensive nature of comics and the desire to share narratives more efficiently. In this conversation, Brad Guigar and ComicLab discuss the complexities of transitioning from comics to illustrated novels, emphasizing the importance of writing skills alongside illustration. They also delve into the potential impact of tariffs on printing costs, particularly for small publishers relying on overseas printing. The discussion highlights the challenges and realities of both creative and business aspects in the comic industry.

Takeaways

• Comics and graphic novels aimed at kids are a thriving print publishing sector. 
• Parents play a crucial role in fostering a love for reading in their children.
• Libraries are vital community resources that provide free access to books.
• Engagement with comics should not be measured solely by cost-effectiveness.
• Community initiatives like book exchanges can enhance access to literature.
• Encouraging kids to read requires active participation from parents.
• The comics industry is successfully reaching young audiences today.
• Creative solutions exist for parents to provide books without breaking the bank. Engagement on Blue Sky is currently very high.
• Deleting old social media accounts can be liberating.
• Scheduling posts is crucial for maximizing engagement.
• Blue Sky offers a unique opportunity for audience building.
• Social media fatigue is a common concern among creators.
• The landscape of social media is constantly changing.
• Illustrated novels could be a viable alternative to comics.
• It's important to adapt to new platforms quickly.
• Community moderation tools are essential for a healthy environment.
• Creators should always be on the lookout for new opportunities. You can be very successful in an illustrated novel situation.
• Writing is as complex as illustrating.
• Dunning-Kruger effect applies to perceptions of writing difficulty.
• Novelists can spend years honing their craft.
• Transitioning to a new art form requires significant time investment.
• Tariffs can drastically increase printing costs.
• Small publishers may struggle with rising costs due to tariffs.
• Navigating printing options requires careful consideration.
• Expect uncertainty regarding tariffs in the current political climate.
• Reshoring the printing industry is a complex challenge.

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. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Writing humor takes a lot of time and patience. We'll discuss ways to persevere.

Summary

In this episode, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett share insights on the creative process of writing humor, emphasizing that humor can be both an inherited trait and a learned skill. The conversation highlights the necessity of trial and error in developing a comedic voice and the various factors influencing one's ability to be funny. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the journey of mastering humor and comedy writing. They emphasize the importance of practice, analysis, and the willingness to learn from unfunny attempts. The hosts share practical tips for writing jokes, the significance of active watching in comedy, and the necessity of obsession with the craft. They also address the challenges some may face in writing humor and encourage aspiring comedians to find their unique path in the genre. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the emergence of Blue Sky as a promising social media platform, contrasting it with their experiences on Twitter and other platforms. They explore the emotional challenges of leaving behind established accounts, the importance of engagement, and the sunk cost fallacy that often prevents users from moving on. The discussion emphasizes the need to focus on platforms that bring joy and meaningful connections, ultimately advocating for a shift towards Blue Sky.

Takeaways

• Writing humor is a long-term process.
• Not everyone has an innate sense of humor.
• Trial and error is essential in humor writing.
• Humor can be developed through practice.
• A supportive environment fosters comedic skills.
• Personal experiences shape one's comedic voice.
• Learning from past failures is crucial.
• Engagement with the audience is key to success. Writing humor requires a long journey of trial and error.
• Analyzing unfunny work is crucial for improvement.
• Active watching of comedy can enhance joke-writing skills.
• Practice writing jokes daily to develop your craft.
• Improv classes can help students understand humor dynamics.
• Reading and analyzing successful comics can provide insights.
• Books on comedy writing can be helpful but may not suit everyone.
• Obsession with humor is essential for long-term success.
• You can't get worse at writing humor if you keep practicing.
• Finding joy in the process is critical to becoming a better comedian. Blue Sky is gaining traction as a new social media platform.
• Engagement on Blue Sky is significantly higher than on Twitter.
• The emotional weight of deleting social media accounts can be heavy.
• The sunk cost fallacy can prevent users from moving on from old platforms.
• It's essential to focus on platforms that bring joy and engagement.
• Many interesting creators are migrating to Blue Sky.
• The hosts emphasize the importance of audience engagement for success.
• Deleting old accounts can be a liberating decision.
• Social media should be a source of joy, not frustration.
• Building a community on new platforms is essential for growth.

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. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

What happens when your story gets too big for you to handle? Are you the right person for the job? (And if not you, then who??)

On Today's Show:

• In over your head
• UPDATE: It was FCS all along
•  Crossbar i technicality
• Advice to your older self

Summary

In this episode, the hosts discuss the challenges creators face, particularly when tackling complex themes such as systemic injustice in long-term comic projects. The hosts emphasize the importance of pushing through creative doubts and the value of learning from mistakes in the writing process. In this conversation, they explore the complexities of creativity, mainly focusing on the challenges creators face after a hiatus. They discuss the importance of embracing imperfection, the role of confidence in storytelling, and the value of completing projects. The dialogue emphasizes that it's normal to feel doubt and that taking breaks can be beneficial. Ultimately, they encourage creators to follow their instincts and permit themselves to explore new directions in their work.

In this episode, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett revisit a previous discussion about the frequency of comic updates, introducing the concept of FCS (Frequent, Consistent, Significant) as a guiding principle for creators. They delve into the nuances of typography in comics, particularly the use of the crossbar I, and emphasize the importance of clarity in communication. The conversation takes a philosophical turn as they explore what advice they would give to their future selves, reflecting on the nature of change and the importance of embracing it as artists. In this episode, the hosts explore the themes of establishment in the cartooning world, the importance of embracing change, and the value of taking risks. They reflect on the advice they would give to their younger selves, emphasizing the need to cultivate joy and not let life's challenges steal it away. The conversation also touches on the cyclical nature of life experiences and the lessons learned from past regrets.

Takeaways

• Steven Seagal movies can provide unexpected comfort during tough times.
• The absurdity of Seagal's later films highlights a decline in quality.
• Long-term projects can lead to self-doubt about creative abilities.
• It's important to seek permission from oneself to pivot in creative projects.
• Tackling heavy themes in comics requires courage and skill development.
• Backing away from challenges may hinder growth as a writer.
• Learning from mistakes is a crucial part of the writing process.
• The hosts encourage embracing creative challenges despite fears.
• Systemic injustice is a complex theme that requires careful handling.
• Humor can be found in the most unexpected places, even in bad movies. You can't expect purity from yourself.
• Mistakes help you become a better writer.
• Consider the reasons behind your creative hiatus.
• Social change comes from many small actions.
• Confidence can wane, and that's okay.
• Finishing a project has intrinsic value.
• Taking breaks can help clarify your creative direction.
• Art is never truly finished until the artist says so.
• It's normal to feel doubt about your work.
• Follow your heart and pursue what excites you.
• FCS stands for Frequent, Consistent, Significant updates.
• Two updates a week can enhance audience engagement.
• The crossbar I rule aids in clarity of communication.
• Typography choices impact the readability of comics.
• Clarity of communication should guide lettering choices.
• Change is a constant in an artist's journey.
• Embrace the evolution of your artistic style.
• Reflecting on past decisions can inspire future creativity.
• Maintaining a connection with your audience is crucial.
• Enjoy the present and acknowledge your achievements. We often feel like we're still figuring things out, regardless of our experience.
• Establishment is a perception; we must keep building our audience.
• Change is necessary for growth, even if it's uncomfortable.
• Advice to younger selves often revolves around reassurance and encouragement.
• Taking risks is crucial; regrets often stem from missed opportunities.
• Improv offers immediate feedback that cartooning lacks.
• Life experiences tend to repeat themselves in different forms.
• Cultivating joy is essential, especially during tough times.
• The wisdom of older selves often reflects universal truths.
• You miss 100% of the shots you don't take.

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. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Does an aspiring comics artist/writer need a college degree? And, if so, which degree is best? Next, a listener asks why Brad publishes his weekly comics page in half-page increments.

• What schools do we recommend ?
• Why does Brad publish twice a week?
• Substack and Bluesky

Summary

In this episode of ComicLab, hosts Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett explore the importance of higher education for aspiring cartoonists, debating the merits of specialized degrees versus a broader liberal arts education. They emphasize the significance of writing in comics, the value of community colleges, and the necessity for aspiring artists to actively create comics during their education. The episode concludes with a discussion on the optimal update frequency for comic creators, highlighting the balance between reader engagement and creative output. In this conversation, Brad Guigar and his co-host discuss the nuances of storytelling in comics, emphasizing the importance of finding a 'sweet spot' in panel structure and update frequency. They explore the challenges of conveying narratives in short formats, particularly in the context of webcomics, and the need to adapt to new platforms and formats for compelling storytelling. The discussion also touches on the evolving landscape of comic publishing, including the potential of platforms like Substack and Bluesky.

Takeaways

• Ramekins can elevate home dining experiences.
• Education is crucial for aspiring cartoonists.
• Writing is the backbone of successful comics.
• A liberal arts education provides a broad perspective.
• Community colleges offer valuable opportunities.
• Creating comics during college is essential.
• The frequency of updates can impact reader engagement.
• Specialized degrees may not be necessary for comic artists.
• Critical thinking skills are vital in education.
• Experience often outweighs degree prestige in job markets. Finding a sweet spot in storytelling is crucial.
• Panel structure significantly impacts narrative pacing.
• Short formats can hinder storytelling effectiveness.
• Adapting to new comic formats is essential for success.
• Webcomics require a different approach than traditional comics.
• Engaging the audience is key to retaining readers.
• Two updates a week can enhance audience interaction.
• Using social media effectively can boost comic visibility.
• Exploring new platforms can open up opportunities for creators.
• Understanding the limitations of formats helps in storytelling.

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. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

How do you explain to someone that you're a professional cartoonist? More importantly — should you even try?! Also, Dave and Brad share details about the software they use, and Brad extolls the virtues of a Patreon content exchange.

On Today's Show...

• How do you explain to people that you're a professional cartoonist?
• What software is best for comics?
• Take a break this holiday
• Patreon content exchange

Summary

In this conversation, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett discuss the challenges of explaining their profession as cartoonists to others, as well as the misconceptions surrounding the field. Next, they explain the significance of using the right software for comic creation. They emphasize the need for cartoonists to be aware of the technical aspects of their work, particularly when it comes to color formats and printing. Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett emphasize the advantages of tools like Clip Studio Paint and Adobe products. They also highlight the significance of taking breaks during the holiday season to recharge creatively. The conversation shifts to strategies for Patreon content exchanges, where they share insights on effectively reaching out to other creators and the benefits of collaboration in building audiences.

Takeaways

• Explaining the profession of cartooning can be challenging.
• Many people don't believe cartooning is a viable career.
• Using the right software is crucial for comic creation.
• Procreate has limitations for professional comic artists.
• CMYK vs. RGB is an essential distinction for printing.
• Cartoonists often face misconceptions about their work.
• The number of professional cartoonists is quite limited.
• It's essential to enjoy and embrace being a cartoonist. Robust software provides better control over comic creation.
• Clip Studio Paint excels in paneling and drawing processes.
• Adobe products are preferred for final layout and printing.
• Taking breaks during the holidays is essential for creativity.
• Patreon content exchanges can enhance audience engagement.
• Networking in real life can facilitate collaboration opportunities.
• Cross-promotion is a valuable strategy for creators.
• It's essential to under-promise and over-deliver to Patreon backers.
• Familiarity with tools leads to better results in comic creation.
• Long-term strategies yield better audience growth than short-term tactics.

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. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

When comic creators try to market their comics, they often confuse what their comic is about with who it's for. Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar offer some guidance on making compelling promotions that work. In the show's second half, the boys have a devil of a time talking about angel investing.

Summary

In this episode, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett explore how comic creators can broaden their audience beyond niche markets, emphasizing the significance of themes and relationships in storytelling. The conversation highlights the need for creators to identify their comic's appeal and engage with a broader audience.

In this conversation, the hosts explore the concept of angel investing, particularly in the context of cartoonists and creative industries. They discuss the nature of angel investing, the challenges cartoonists face in securing funding, and the potential roles that angel investors could play in their careers. The conversation also delves into alternative funding models like Kickstarter and Patreon and the importance of marketing versus production in growing a creative business. Ultimately, the hosts reflect on their experiences and the realities of managing growth in the comic industry. In this episode, the hosts delve into the complexities of comic creation, discussing the balance between marketing and content production, the impact of hiring assistants, and the challenges of delegating creative tasks. They explore the dynamics of collaboration in writing and the potential growth opportunities for their podcast, ComicLab, while acknowledging the realities of success and the risks involved in expanding their creative endeavors.

Takeaways

• Community engagement is crucial for comic creators.
• Your comic's audience can extend beyond niche interests.
• Identifying themes in your work can broaden its appeal.
• Marketing should focus on storytelling rather than just genre.
• Romance writers effectively use tropes to engage readers.
• Understanding relationships in your comic can enhance its depth.
• Creators should not limit themselves to specific reader demographics.
• Exploring broader human experiences can attract diverse audiences.
• Angel investing is often misunderstood as purely altruistic.
• Investors expect a return on their investment, which can complicate creative endeavors.
• Cartoonists may not have apparent uses for large sums of angel investment.
• Kickstarter and Patreon serve as modern alternatives to traditional angel investing.
• Hiring an assistant or marketing professional could be beneficial for growth.
• Understanding the costs of production is crucial for cartoonists.
• Marketing is essential for expanding reach and attracting new readers.
• Creative professionals often feel limited by their audience size.
• The animation industry presents unique challenges for cartoonists.
• Growth strategies should be tailored to individual business models. Marketing and content creation are interdependent.
• Hiring an assistant can significantly enhance productivity.
• The host is often the bottleneck in creative processes.
• Delegating inking is challenging due to personal attachment.
• A writer's room could invigorate the creative process.
• Growth opportunities exist but come with risks.
• More resources can lead to more problems.
• Collaboration can lead to better creative outcomes.
• The podcast could evolve with additional funding.
• Realistic expectations are crucial for success.

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. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

When a listener asks about Kickstarter strategy, the ComicLab guys are divided! Dave favors the traditional webcomics approach. Build your audience by posting the comic online, then monetize that engagement with a Kickstarter. Brad likes this, but he could also see using Kickstarter's strengths in Discovery to build the audience through a series of smaller campaigns that lead to a big one.

Summary

In this conversation, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett explore various aspects of creating and promoting comics, including the importance of audience engagement, the role of webcomics, and practical strategies for using platforms like Patreon and Kickstarter. They discuss the significance of consistent content release versus binge releases, emphasizing the emotional connection built through regular engagement with readers. The conversation also touches on personal anecdotes and humorous references, making it both informative and entertaining for aspiring comic creators.

In the second half of the show, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett discuss various topics related to comic creation, including the joys of attending the Alaska Comics Camp, the potential of drawing Q&A sessions for Patreon, the nuances of live streaming for community versus audience building, and strategies for overcoming comic paralysis. They emphasize the importance of community engagement, the legal considerations of using names in drawings, and the creative processes involved in writing and drawing comics.

Takeaways

• The concept of reality can sometimes feel simulated.
• Building an audience takes time and consistent effort.
• Sharing work for free can help monetize later through crowdfunding.
• Webcomics has a proven track record for audience engagement.
• Regular content release fosters deeper emotional connections with readers.
• Patreon should focus on ongoing support rather than one-time rewards.
• Binge reading can be appealing, but regular updates build stronger relationships.
• Marketing archived work is essential for ongoing engagement.
• Kickstarter can be used effectively for audience building.
• The emotional bond with readers is strengthened through consistent storytelling.
• Alaska Comics Camp is a unique experience for cartoonists.
• Drawing Q&As can enhance community engagement on Patreon.
• Avoid using patrons' names in drawings to prevent legal issues.
• Live streaming can serve both community and audience-building purposes.
• Comic paralysis may stem from a disconnect between writing and drawing.
• Consider introducing time between writing and drawing to refresh creativity.
• Not all drawn content is suitable for reuse in books.
• You might be a writer who illustrates rather than a cartoonist.
• Train your brain to associate writing with drawing to overcome paralysis.
• It's okay to explore other creative avenues if comics don't fit.

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. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.