Geek Freaks Interviews

Danny Trejo stopped in the middle of a video game recording session to tell Keith Arem he wanted to make a comic together, and that moment became Year of the Devil, a five-issue supernatural action-horror graphic novel starring Trejo as Diego, a warrior bound to the Devil. Keith Arem (Call of Duty, The Exiled) and Chris Yates (Marcus Walker: Kingslayer Protocol) join Frank to talk about building the story from Trejo's family history, his tattoos, and his lifelong love of history.

The conversation covers how Diego stays himself across five historical eras, why Etzel is more than a plot device, and how the team approached the Toxcatl massacre with help from historian Matt Torres. Keith and Chris also talk about Frank Mazzoli's interior art, the macuahuitl they plan to build and test on conquistador helmets, and why publishing through PCB Entertainment lets them run riddle contests with the Devil and surprise fan meetups at Trejo's Cantina in Hollywood.

Chapters

• 0:00 Meet Keith Arem and Chris Yates
• 0:47 How Year of the Devil Came Together
• 4:10 Where Danny Ends and Diego Begins
• 7:31 Etzel, the Devil, and the Heart of the Story
• 15:00 Five Eras and the Four Horsemen
• 20:37 Built for Games, Film, and Beyond
• 23:11 Aztec History and Cultural Authenticity
• 29:08 Frank Mazzoli's Artwork
• 31:07 PCB, BackerKit, and Trejo's Cantina Surprises

Key Takeaways

• Year of the Devil started when Danny Trejo, recording for the Like a Dragon games, saw Keith's graphic novel The Exiled with Wesley Snipes and asked to make one of his own.
• Diego carries Trejo's tattoos and attitude, and the Devil's mark on his body changes each time he kills one of the Four Horsemen.
• Diego dies and returns younger in each issue, landing in a new real-world era, while Etzel and Death act as his conscience between lives.
• Every cover artist on the book is of Latino descent, and historian Matt Torres consulted on the Aztec weapons, language, and relationships.
• PCB builds every property with games, animation, and film in mind, and Keith says they are already fielding those calls but refuse to treat the book as a cash grab.
• Publishing independently through BackerKit lets the team run fan experiences like the Devil riddle contest at San Diego Comic-Con and exclusive drops at Trejo's Tacos, Trejo's Donuts, and Trejo's Cantina.

Pull Quotes

• "We really felt like it had to have something like some dirt under the fingernails." (Chris Yates)

• "He's not really a clean superhero. He's super violent. He's flawed, and he's haunted, and he's also searching for this redemption path." (Keith Arem)

• "What's interesting about a comic book is that the story doesn't progress unless you turn the page." (Keith Arem)

• "Sometimes a story is better told when you read it, and sometimes it's better when you watch it, and sometimes it's better when you play through it." (Keith Arem)

• "He made Diego feel like a part of this world. It felt like it was seamless, instead of just insert Danny Trejo." (Chris Yates, on artist Frank Mazzoli)

Links and Resources

• GeekFreaksPodcast.com is the source for all news discussed on the podcast.
• Back Danny Trejo's Year of the Devil on BackerKit: https://www.backerkit.com/c/projects/pcb-entertainment/danny-trejo-s-year-of-the-devil

Support the Show

If you enjoyed hearing how Year of the Devil came together, subscribe to Geek Freaks Interviews and leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It helps new listeners find the show. Know someone who grew up on Machete and From Dusk Till Dawn? Send them this episode and tag us with #GeekFreaksPodcast.

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Ken M from the Ocho Duro Parlay Hour joins Frank to unpack how ODPH started, why the long title became “the O.D.P.H.,” and what it takes to keep a show thriving for years. We get into releasing that first episode on Memorial Day 2017, the shift toward video, editing choices that keep conversations human, and how community support has changed since the early “podcast Twitter” days. Ken also shares a favorite New York Comic Con memory and talks about leadership at Nerd Initiative and what’s next.

00:00 — Meet Ken M and the ODPH origin story, including an early detour and why the show finally launched in 2017.
01:25 — Naming the show: craps “hard 8,” parlay, and why they shortened it for listeners.
04:41 — Rehearsals, buying gear, and the decision to ship on Memorial Day 2017.
05:57 — “Day and night”: how episode one compares to today and crossing 800 episodes.
08:03 — Still nervous sometimes, and why that spark matters; an NYCC moment with Scott Snyder.
13:19 — Money talk and podfade: expectations, Patreon, and why consistency wins.
17:19 — From retweet rings to real support: how the community evolved.
22:38 — Video vs audio: what changed after 2020 and why audio isn’t going anywhere.
31:16 — Editor in Chief in 2023, creative freedom, and moving on in good standing.
42:11 — Editing philosophy: keep the “ums,” fix the facts, sound natural.

• Ship it before it’s “perfect.” Momentum beats perfection, especially early on.

• It’s normal to feel some nerves. That’s part of what keeps interviews exciting and honest.

• Audio isn’t dying. Video grew fast after 2020, but audio remains a core, durable medium.

• Edit for clarity, not polish. Keep natural cadence and correct only what truly needs it.

• Community has matured. Shoutouts with substance beat retweet loops every time.

• Consistency over vanity metrics. Focus on craft and cadence to outlast podfade.

• “The audio will be here till the end of time.”

• “If we make it sound too perfect, people are going to think it’s not.”

• “If your goal is all monetary, you’re in the wrong business.”

• “He has a fantastic podcast. You need to check it out.” (Scott Snyder at NYCC)

Enjoying the episode? Follow and subscribe, leave a quick review, and share this one with a friend using #GeekFreaksPodcast. It helps more listeners find the show.

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TV & Film, Entertainment News, Interviews, Podcasting, Geek Culture, ODPH, New York Comic Con, Editing Tips, Video Podcasting, Community Building

Timestamps and TopicsKey TakeawaysQuotesCall to ActionLinks and ResourcesFollow UsListener QuestionsApple Podcast Tags

Voice actor Eliah Mountjoy joins us to talk about bringing the Winter Soldier to life in Marvel Rivals, why Bucky’s duality resonates with him, and what it actually takes to nail lines when you’re alone in the booth. We get into the craft behind anime dubbing, how directors guide performance in fast-moving game sessions, and his thoughtful stance on where AI helps and where it harms. He closes with grounded advice for anyone thinking about voice acting as a career.

00:00 Intro and why Eliah’s Bucky leaves a mark on players
00:55 How he landed Winter Soldier and learned it was Bucky mid-callback
02:22 Building a take that isn’t a Sebastian Stan voice match
05:20 Playing a century-old, battle-worn hero with real baggage
06:05 Community with the Rivals cast and that “donut video” origin story
10:21 Recording solo vs ensemble and learning to “act to no one”
12:20 Why fast sessions still feel grounded, plus getting scripts early
14:15 Calibrating banter vs in-battle reads with the director’s context
15:14 What Eliah brings to Bucky from real-world tactical training
19:15 Quiet confidence vs “flip mode” for big moments and ults
20:25 The Bucky stories he still wants to tell with Natasha
21:17 Dubbing anime: timing, intent over mimicry, and “spoken-word karaoke”
29:59 AI in voice work: the line in the sand, compensation, and the uncanny valley
36:30 Practical steps for aspiring voice actors: classes, improv, and knowing your “why”

• Winter Soldier wasn’t a voice-match job. Eliah built a take rooted in Bucky’s history and weight rather than mimicking the MCU.

• Real tactical training informed his performance: calm, capable, and dangerous until it’s time to flip the switch.

• Directors matter. Fast, line-heavy sessions still feel truthful when context is clear and actors get material in advance.

• In anime dubbing, timing rules everything. He aims to match intent, not the original voice.

• On AI, the bright line is human performance. Use tools without replacing actors, and protect credit and compensation to avoid hollow, uncanny results.

• If you want to voice act, start acting. Take classes, do improv, study the craft, and be honest about your motivation.

• “Voice acting is acting… you have to find a way to do that with your voice.”

• “He’s the killer of killers… and very relaxed until it’s time to ramp it up.”

• “We have to find a way to protect human performance and the people who bring it to life.”

• “I try to match the intent, not the exact voice.”

If you enjoyed this conversation, follow the show, rate us, and leave a short review. Share the episode with a friend and tag your post with #GeekFreaksInterview so we can find it.

• All news discussed on our shows comes from GeekFreaksPodcast.com

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TV & Film, Pop Culture, Interviews, Voice Acting, Marvel, Anime, Video Games, Entertainment News

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Voice actor Jordan Reynolds joins Geek Freaks to unpack his role as Adam Warlock in Marvel Rivals, how he built the character’s calm, reliable presence, and what it takes to deliver clean, useful callouts that help players in the moment. He talks audition mindset, working with voice director Michael Sirieix at Brightskull Studios, and shaping performance to match gameplay. We also get fun stories from his early days on the Warner Bros. lot, meeting Crispin Freeman, and his World of Warcraft gigs, from Highmountain Tauren to the mead-obsessed Dr. Brandt.

00:00 Welcome and setup. Adam Warlock in Marvel Rivals is top of mind.
01:13 The audition grind and why booking one feels great.
02:18 Avoiding “vanilla” reads and the “submit it and forget it” mindset.
04:35 Building Adam’s voice as a hopeful, stable anchor within game limits.
05:24 Banter vs barks and keeping warmth in slower lines.
08:26 Playing a methodical healer and letting that inform delivery.
09:34 Working with voice director Michael Sirieix at Brightskull Studios.
12:05 Making “Born Again” crystal clear for teammates while keeping emotion.
17:43 World of Warcraft roles, from Highmountain Tauren to Dr. Brandt in The War Within.
19:40 Pitch shifting, finding old lines, and fans spotting his work.
23:56 First in studio gig at Warner Bros., “Countdown to Geostorm,” and meeting Crispin Freeman.

• Adam Warlock’s voice sits in a steady, reliable pocket that uplifts the team even when the action spikes.

• Functional clarity matters. Short barks like “Born Again” must be instantly readable and still feel human.

• Great sessions balance instincts with direction from the studio to align reads with gameplay needs.

• Auditions should reflect what resonates with you. Chasing every note leads to safe reads that blend in.

• “Submit it and forget it” helps you stay sane when audition volume is high.

• Early studio moments matter. That first WB lot gig and meeting heroes like Crispin Freeman fueled the journey.

• In WoW, he has credits from Highmountain Tauren to Dr. Brandt’s mead mission in The War Within.

• “He is hopeful, he is uplifting, and he’s an anchor.”

• “Everything is very clinical, methodical.”

• “Submit it and forget it.”

• “Countdown to Geostorm in five, four, three, two, one.”

If you enjoyed this episode, follow the show, leave a rating and review, and share it with a friend. Tag us with #GeekFreaksPodcast so we can highlight your post.

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• All news discussed on our podcast is sourced from GeekFreaksPodcast.com.

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Got a question for Jordan or a topic you want us to cover next time? Send it our way, and we’ll feature your question in a future episode.

Apple Podcast tags: Geek Freaks, Jordan Reynolds, Marvel Rivals, Adam Warlock, Voice Acting, World of Warcraft, Brightskull Studios, Michael Sirieix, Crispin Freeman, Interview

Timestamps and TopicsKey TakeawaysQuotesCall to ActionLinks and ResourcesFollow UsListener Questions

Frank sits down with developer and former podcaster Alex Austin to talk about BitCade, a podcast app for iOS and Android that blends listening, creator monetization, and a built in social feed. Alex explains how token based unlocks, short term subscriptions, and low cost in app ad slots help indie shows earn, why BitCade values follow back over follower counts, and how the platform plans to grow with video, live features, and community moderation. Frank also announces a giveaway for 28 Years Later codes on BitCade and Alex pledges to sponsor an extra prize. They wrap with trends across TikTok, YouTube, and video podcasting, plus Alex’s side quest running a trading card shop.

00:00 Introduction and guest welcome
00:18 Alex returns to the mic
00:34 What BitCade is and how Apple Podcast search powers discovery
00:52 Monetization with token bundles and bonus galleries
01:52 Three and six month gallery unlocks
02:22 Why add a social feed and how it differs from typical platforms
03:10 Keeping networks small and easy to filter
03:53 Rewarding mutual follows instead of chasing follower counts
04:07 Bot fatigue and why engagement beats vanity numbers
05:00 TikTok vs Twitter and centering creators in the feed
05:32 How podcasters can use the social feed daily
05:52 Indie ad slots, token costs, and seven day placements
06:59 Extra promo in the feed and merch link options
07:28 Frank’s results after buying a trending slot
08:03 Giveaway on BitCade for 28 Years Later digital codes
08:36 Alex adds a sponsored prize under fifty dollars
09:14 What is next for BitCade and scaling with creators
09:57 Live streams as a likely premium feature
10:11 Building an in house RSS API as usage grows
10:46 Plan to donate most net profits to rotating charities after recouping costs
11:12 Community voting on monthly charities and regional focus
13:00 Moderation approach and future network admin roles
14:58 Keeping the community welcoming and inclusive
16:00 Algorithm whiplash and follower fatigue
16:45 Video uploads, bandwidth realities, and premium bitrates
18:39 YouTube’s share of podcast consumption and what it means
19:33 Why audio still rules for listeners who multitask
20:26 Trend planning and real world data use
21:28 Alex’s trading card shop and pack pulling stories
23:33 The shop with the giant wizard and a dream location
25:43 Geek culture catch up and casting chatter
28:04 How to reach Alex inside the app and episode close

• Alex will sponsor an additional prize under fifty dollars to boost the giveaway.

• Roadmap items include live streaming as a premium feature and a homegrown RSS API to handle scale.

• After recouping development costs, Alex plans to donate most net profits to charities chosen by the community, potentially by region.

• Moderation focuses on safety, verified podcaster admin tools, and daily checks to keep the feed clean and welcoming.

• Video podcasting demand is growing, but audio remains the primary way most people listen while doing other tasks.

• “It should be about the content and about the podcaster.”

• “We reward follow back, not follower counts.”

• “If you are serious about podcasting, grab an indie ad slot and make it work for you.”

• “Once I make my principal back, I want to give the net profits to charity.”

• “Audio is still king for listeners who multitask.”

• GeekFreaksPodcast.com for news mentioned on our shows and network updates

• Find BitCade in the iOS App Store and on Google Play

• Need help claiming your show on BitCade
  Message Alex Austin inside the app

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What creator tools or features would help you most on a podcast app

In this episode of Geek Freaks, we continue our conversation with the crew from Distance Nerding. Liam, Jen, and Matt (aka Graveyard) join us to share how their live show has evolved since its start in 2020, the importance of networking in the podcasting world, and how community engagement fuels their growth. From their origins in online fandoms to running a safe space for geeks to hang out, the team opens up about the challenges and benefits of going live, their favorite fandoms, and their ambitious future plans. We also wrap things up with some fun “Geek Box” questions, revealing the fictional worlds they’d live in, the franchises they’d reboot, and their ultimate comfort shows.

00:00 Introductions to the Distance Nerding crew
01:00 Lessons learned from years of podcasting
02:00 Networking and building a geek community
04:00 How the hosts joined the show and their unique backgrounds
06:00 What makes Distance Nerding’s community different
07:00 Balancing niche passions like horror and sci-fi
09:00 The benefits of going live and engaging with chat
11:00 Conventions and in-person fan interactions
12:00 Live streaming vs. pre-recorded content
14:00 Handling live show challenges and improv moments
16:00 In-person vs. online podcasting dynamics
18:00 Post-pandemic podcast advantages
19:30 Future goals for Distance Nerding
23:40 “Geek Box” question – Fictional universes they’d live in
28:40 “Geek Box” question – Franchises they’d reboot or continue
33:38 “Geek Box” question – Comfort TV shows and movies
39:10 Closing thoughts and where to find Distance Nerding

• Networking is essential to building and sustaining a podcast community.

• Live streaming encourages organic bits, ongoing jokes, and strong audience connections.

• The team blends niche fandoms, from horror to sci-fi, creating a well-rounded geek space.

• In-person convention appearances help expand their reach beyond the live chat.

• Post-pandemic podcasting has opened doors for remote hosting without losing audience engagement.

• Creative future plans include live play RPG content with immersive sound design.

• “Networking is so vital, especially when you’re trying to build community. That’s a big part of podcasting nowadays.” – Liam

• “We’re a lot more casual… it’s how you talk to your geek friends about random matchups.” – Matt (Graveyard)

• “Live is better for off-the-cuff moments. That’s when we’re at our most ourselves.” – Jen

• “I want the terror back in Nightmare on Elm Street. Bring back the fear.” – Matt (Graveyard)

• “Ted Lasso is my go-to feel-good show when I’m feeling down.” – Liam

If you enjoyed this conversation, subscribe to Geek Freaks on your favorite podcast app, leave a review to help others discover the show, and share this episode with your fellow geeks. Use #GeekFreaksPodcast when posting about the episode so we can join in on the conversation.

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What fictional universe would you want to live in for a year? Send your answer to us through social media or our website for a chance to be featured in a future episode.

Apple Podcast Tags:
Distance Nerding, geek culture podcast, live podcasting, podcast community building, networking for podcasters, horror fandom, sci-fi fandom, comic book fandom, convention culture, post-pandemic podcasting, live streaming tips, geek interviews, podcast improv, comfort TV shows, fictional universes

Timestamps and Topics:Key Takeaways:Quotes:Call to Action:Links and Resources:Follow Us:Listener Questions:

In this powerful episode of Geek Freaks, we sit down with Cindy Mich—award-winning journalist, indie filmmaker, author, and founder of the Art Is Alive Film Festival. Cindy opens up about her roots in writing, the transition into broadcasting, and how she's building platforms to elevate unheard voices. From launching her own magazine, Elegant Expressions, to writing a screenplay for Holocaust survivor Ben Lesser, Cindy shares how personal loss, deep compassion, and sheer determination have shaped her career.

This conversation is packed with insights on independent media, the realities of the film festival world, and how storytelling can create real change.

Timestamps and Topics:
00:00 Welcome and intro to Cindy Mich
00:54 Cindy’s origin story and early influences
02:13 Breaking into journalism without a degree
03:10 Staying authentic in the age of social media
04:18 Jumping into broadcasting via Blogtalk Radio
05:50 Looking back on 450+ interviews
06:53 Radio vs. podcasting in the modern era
08:13 Why writing is still Cindy’s first love
09:03 Choosing the right medium for a story
10:24 The mission behind Elegant Expressions magazine
11:56 Giving voice to indie filmmakers, small businesses, and survivors
13:13 How journalism shaped Cindy’s approach to filmmaking
15:09 Bridging the gap between media and film
17:35 The growth of Art Is Alive Film Festival
19:02 Hybrid distribution model and outreach
21:29 Long-term community building through festivals
23:18 Debunking film festival misconceptions
25:22 Creating lasting connections through collaboration
27:01 The evolution of Cin’s Chat Corner
29:07 Cindy’s work with Holocaust survivor Ben Lesser
31:01 Writing Ben’s screenplay and preserving legacy
33:06 Balancing projects after personal loss
35:28 Healing through storytelling
37:43 Cindy’s personal legacy and final advice

Key Takeaways:

• Cindy built a successful media career through authenticity, persistence, and a commitment to elevating others.

• Art Is Alive isn’t just a festival, it’s a launchpad for indie creators looking to break through the noise.

• Independent filmmakers often don’t understand the business side—Cindy is actively helping them learn.

• She’s currently writing a screenplay about Holocaust survivor Ben Lesser, guided by trust and respect for his voice.

• Personal grief led her to deepen her mission to lift up others who feel invisible.

Memorable Quotes:
🗣️ “Words are magic. They can make people feel, inspire, and move forward.”
🗣️ “If you’re not seen, you’re forgotten. My job is to make sure that doesn’t happen.”
🗣️ “Never do anything for money. Do it because it matters.”

Call to Action:
Enjoyed this conversation with Cindy Mich: https://cindy-mich-award-winning-journalist.yolasite.com/
Subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Visit GeekFreaksPodcast.com for the latest geek culture news.

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Have a question or want to be featured on a future episode? Email us at [email protected] or DM us on any of our socials.

Apple Podcast Tags:
Cindy Mich, Art is Alive Film Festival, indie film, journalism, Elegant Expressions, podcast interview, Holocaust survivor, Ben Lesser, public access TV, indie filmmakers, Geek Freaks, inspirational stories, filmmaking journey, media careers, podcast guest, creative storytelling, geek culture

This week on Geek Freaks Interviews, actor and producer Chris Maher joins Frank to talk about balancing passion and practicality in the film world. From his early days in Omaha theater to earning an economics scholarship in China, Chris shares how his unlikely journey shaped the way he builds a career in indie film. They dive into Nova, his upcoming sci-fi romance that’s grown from a short to a full feature, and talk about his business-minded approach to acting, producing, and investing in his own work. Chris also gets candid about rejection, screen tests, self-funded stunts, and why a headshot and a good class can change your career.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Welcome and intro
00:40 – Chris’s acting roots in Omaha
01:48 – Almost became a veterinarian
02:25 – Why he left the arts to study business
05:00 – How modeling brought him back to acting
06:31 – What Nova is and how it evolved into a feature
09:00 – Producing the feature and finding cast
10:25 – Differences between shorts and features
12:26 – Editing, logistics, and post-production
15:05 – Using his background in economics and crypto to fund films
17:06 – Favorite genres: comedy, action, and the struggle of being “big” on camera
20:01 – Doing his own stunts (yes, even jumping out of a car)
21:38 – Constantly auditioning, staying positive
23:00 – When a role is written just for you
24:11 – What it’s like being flown in for a screen test
27:10 – Best advice for new actors (hint: headshots and classes)
30:58 – Upcoming projects: Boardwalk Winter, Vindicator, Hack Job

Key Takeaways:

• Nova is a passion project being developed into a feature after sweeping festivals.

• Chris’s economics degree helps him invest smartly in indie films.

• He emphasizes that auditioning is the real job, and consistency is key.

• His favorite genre to perform is comedy, but he has major respect for dramatic subtlety on camera.

• Acting classes aren’t just educational—they’re networking gold.

• Doing your own stunts might be easier if you grew up without a smartphone.

Quotes to Pull:

• “Auditioning is the real job. Filming is the reward.”

• “Shorts are practice. Features are war.”

• “This business is about longevity. Talent matters, but business acumen keeps you in the game.”

• “They wrote the role for me. That’s the dream.”

Call to Action:
Enjoy the conversation? Subscribe, rate, and review Geek Freaks Interviews wherever you get your podcasts. Tag us with your favorite moment using #GeekFreaksInterviews and check out Chris’s projects like Nova and Boardwalk Winter.

🎙️ Visit GeekFreaksPodcast.com for all our latest news and episodes.

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Apple Podcast Tags:
Chris Maher, Nova Movie, Indie Actor Interview, Sci-Fi Film, Acting Advice, Boardwalk Winter, Vindicator Film, Geek Freaks Interviews, Indie Film Hustle, Acting Career Tips

In this Geek Freaks Interviews episode, Frank sits down with filmmaker Pascal Bergamin, the creative force behind Portraits of Dangerous Women. Inspired by a collection of quirky vintage photographs, Pascal shares how the idea evolved into a film about grief, connection, and the quiet power of flawed characters.

They dig into the meaning behind the word “dangerous,” what it takes to keep authenticity alive on set, and how indie filmmakers survive the chaos of production and distribution. It’s a deep look at what it means to tell human stories with limited resources but unlimited passion.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 Intro and warm-up

• 06:24 Meet Pascal Bergamin

• 07:00 The inspiration behind Portraits of Dangerous Women

• 08:19 A photo book that changed everything

• 10:13 Humor as the bridge between grief and absurdity

• 12:54 Redefining “dangerous”

• 14:23 Letting characters be flawed and real

• 17:10 Casting without auditions and trusting instincts

• 23:00 The unforgettable dog scene

• 25:17 Creating a world that feels familiar but offbeat

• 29:45 How the U.S. release differs from the UK

• 31:02 What indie filmmaking still teaches Pascal

• 36:51 What’s next (and why he’s not rushing it)

Key Takeaways:

• Pascal was inspired by real vintage photographs of women doing unusual things—not crime, but acts of boldness and humor.

• The word “dangerous” in the title reflects unpredictability and spontaneity, not violence or threat.

• His indie film set prioritized time and space for actors, leading to honest performances.

• The cast came together without formal auditions, chosen for chemistry and instinct.

• Distributing an indie film requires just as much hustle as making it.

Memorable Quotes:

• “You don’t have enough time to be nervous.”

• “They’re not trying to be heroes. They’re reacting to life as it comes.”

• “Dangerous doesn’t mean violent. It means unexpected.”

• “Sometimes you just knock on a door with your script in hand and hope for kindness.”

Call to Action:
If you love indie films, bold characters, or the behind-the-scenes grind of filmmaking, don’t miss this conversation. Portraits of Dangerous Women is now available in the U.S. and Canada. Watch the film, then come back and let us know what you think.

Subscribe to Geek Freaks Interviews, leave a rating, and share the episode using #GeekFreaksInterviews.

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Apple Podcast Tags:
Pascal Bergamin, portraits of dangerous women, indie filmmaking, director interview, filmmaking podcast, women in film, behind the scenes, Geek Freaks Interviews, creative process, movie interview

In this episode of Geek Freaks Interviews, Frank sits down with the multifaceted Dan Henk—an artist, dark fiction writer, and tattoo veteran—to explore a career built on punk rock attitude, bold art, and haunting stories. Dan walks us through his journey from satirical magazine art to becoming a staple in the tattoo and indie horror scenes. He discusses how personal tragedy and health battles shaped his storytelling and gives us a preview of his upcoming anthology The Joke is on Mankind. Along the way, he shares what it takes to blend visual art and fiction, how community plays a role in independent publishing, and what his future book plans involve—including alien invasions and guerrilla warfare inspired by his military father.

Timestamps and Topics:
00:00 Introduction to Dan Henk
00:36 Dan’s daily creative routine
01:13 Early work in punk magazines and political cartoons
02:54 Transition to book covers and comics
04:04 Tattoo career and NYC hustle
05:08 Surviving personal loss and illness
05:32 Shift toward dark fiction and The Black Seas of Infinity
07:28 Artistic influences and the power of story
08:53 How art inspires writing (and vice versa)
10:01 How personal trauma shaped Dan’s writing urgency
11:13 Preview of new anthology The Joke is on Mankind
13:18 On curating diverse voices in indie horror
14:38 Dan’s podcast and building a creative network
15:43 Newsletter and staying connected with fans
16:39 Future writing plans: Alien invasions and father-son dynamics

Key Takeaways:

• Dan Henk is an artist who channels his life experiences—punk roots, personal loss, and visual storytelling—into dark, compelling fiction.

• His creative process intertwines art and writing, often one inspiring the other.

• His new anthology The Joke is on Mankind draws influence from The Outer Limits and Lovecraftian horror with a focus on story over shock.

• Dan curates a balanced mix of indie and mainstream voices, creating space for underrepresented yet talented creators.

• He emphasizes authenticity over trend, aiming for lasting impact with each project.

• Future projects explore themes of societal collapse and alien invasions, merging real-world military insight with speculative fiction.

Quotes:

"I don’t care what genre it is—as long as it tells a strong story."
"After Monica passed, I realized—I need to get these stories out now."
"Art inspires my writing and writing brings new life to my art. They feed each other constantly."
"You can talk about an idea forever, but at some point, you just have to make it real."

Call to Action:
If you enjoyed this conversation with Dan Henk, don’t forget to subscribe to Geek Freaks Interviews on your favorite podcast app. Leave us a review and share this episode with your fellow horror fans and creatives using the hashtag #GeekFreaksInterviews. For all updates and episode archives, head to GeekFreaksPodcast.com.

Links and Resources:

• Dan Henk’s website and newsletter: danhenk.com

• Preorder The Joke is on Mankind (releasing late June)

• Podcast news source: GeekFreaksPodcast.com

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• Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast

• Twitter: @geekfreakspod

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Listener Questions:
Have a question for our next guest or want to suggest someone to be interviewed? Message us on social or visit our site to drop us a line!

Apple Podcast Tags:
Dan Henk, tattoo artist, horror fiction, indie publishing, punk art, dark fiction, cosmic horror, art and writing, creative process, Geek Freaks Interviews