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.

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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.