In this conversation, Mike D. Perkins, Editor-In-Chief of Invader Comics, shares insights on indie publishing, multimedia expansion, and building a sustainable comic business. Discover how they navigate the post-Diamond world, engage with fans, and innovate with unique projects like A Field Guide to Legendary Creatures.

https://www.invadercomics.com/

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/invader/the-digger-eyes-of-the-devil-collected-trade-and-ttrpg

https://www.lunardistribution.com/home/search?term=field%20guide

Invader Comics Social Media: X - @InvaderComics Instagram - @InvaderComics TikTok - @Invader.Comics 

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Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to Mike Perkins and Invader Comics

01:50 Invader's Growth and Rebranding Journey

04:05 Navigating Distribution Challenges Post-Diamond

06:53 Impact of Massive Indies and Lunar on Readership

10:02 Supporting Creators and Building Relationships

12:51 Expanding into Multimedia and New Formats

16:02 The Power of Creator-Owned and Creator-Driven Content

18:58 Innovative Publishing: Compact Comics and Hybrid Novels

21:57 Supporting Local Shops and Personal Connections

25:04 Digital Strategies and Online Presence

27:54 Kickstarter Campaigns and Exclusive Editions

32:00 Upcoming Titles: The Digger and Field Guide

35:51 The Unique Appeal of Cryptids and Horror

38:52 Building Long-Term Relationships with Creators

45:05 The Future of Invader Comics and Industry Trends

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In this conversation, Daniel Kalban shares insights into his Jewish-themed comic anthology, the creative process behind Vesper in the Summit universe, and the challenges of managing a comic book Kickstarter during conventions. Daniel Kalban insights into his creative process, universe-building, and upcoming projects like Vesper. We discuss the challenges of managing multiple fictional universes, the importance of editing, and the future of indie comics.

Daniel Kalban’s Social Media: X - @DanielKalban Instagram - @DKalban BlueSky - @DKalban.BSky.Social FaceBook - @Daniel.Kalban

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Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to Daniel Kalban and his work

00:07 Introduction to Daniel Kalban and his creative universe

00:31 The inspiration behind the Jewish anthology and its success

00:32 Cultural representation in comics and its significance

00:33 The creative process and themes of the anthology

00:36 Managing a Kickstarter campaign during a convention

00:59 Introduction to Vesper and the Summit universe

01:14 Vesper's character, influences, and story arcs

01:15 The future of Summit Comics and upcoming projects

02:29 The separation of Libertyverse from Summit and reasons behind it

07:16 Managing crossover potential and universe boundaries

12:01 The role of editors and quality control in indie comics

17:41 Future plans for American Dreams and other projects

22:32 Incorporating classic monsters into comic stories

26:58 Building a cohesive universe with multiple characters and stories

32:14 The upcoming Vesper Kickstarter campaign and its rewards

37:07 Challenges of indie publishing and distribution

42:29 The importance of community and conventions in indie comics

47:00 Closing thoughts and where to find Daniel online

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Jeremy Haun, a comic book creator and the creative director for Ignition Press, shares insights on building a successful comic publishing company, the importance of creator-driven content, and the future of multimedia adaptations. This conversation offers valuable lessons for creators and fans alike.

https://www.jeremyhaun.com/

https://ignitionpress.com/

https://prhcomics.com/book/?isbn=81019628029803011

Jeremy Haun’s Social Media: X - @JerHaun Instagram - @JerHaun BlueSky - @JerHaun.BSky.Social FaceBook - @JerHaun

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Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to Jeremy Hahn and Ignition Press

01:08 The origins of Ignition Press and its mission

02:04 Building a new publisher with a team that shares a vision

03:04 Timing, preparation, and avoiding bad habits in publishing

04:33 Creating a creator-friendly culture at Ignition

05:48 The North Star: Content driven by creators' passions

07:20 Long-term thinking and the book's lifecycle

08:46 Community, connection, and industry support

11:00 Innovative marketing: Ash cans and accessibility

13:10 Retailer relationships and the importance of communication

16:39 Post-COVID industry revival and community building

17:59 Digital comics and meeting fans where they are

20:00 The value of physical comics and digital offerings

22:04 The appeal of compact comics and their place in the market

25:50 Long-form stories and the power of a singular voice

30:10 The diversity of comic genres beyond superheroes

33:36 Multimedia plans: From TV to video games

37:00 Expanding into multimedia and Hollywood

40:00 Supporting creators and exploring new properties

44:30 Jeremy Hahn's new book The Folk of Dooney Hollow

49:03 Inspiration from folk horror and cryptids

55:30 Atmospheric storytelling and personal experiences

01:00:07 Publishing schedule, issues, and retailer support

01:07:45 Future plans, new releases, and conventions

01:11:01 Seasonal recommendations and horror books

01:12:12 Follow Jeremy Hahn and upcoming events

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In this episode, Kohl King shares his journey from a storyteller to a comic creator, the importance of building an audience through one-shots, and the creative process behind his sci-fi comic Empty Stars. Discover tips on crowdfunding, storytelling, and working with professionals in the industry.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/kohlking/empty-stars/description

https://www.kickstarter.com/profile/kohlking/created?ref=project_creator_tab

Kohl King’s Social Media: X - @OldKingComics 

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In this episode, Daniel Dockery discusses the cultural significance of Batman the Animated Series, its influence on modern storytelling, and the process of writing his book about the show. He shares insights from interviews with creators and explores why the series remains a timeless masterpiece.

https://www.danieldockery.com/https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250409652/iamthenight/

Daniel Dockery’s Social Media: Instagram - @TheDanielDockery X - @DanDock

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Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to Daniel Dockery and his book

00:35 The importance of Batman the Animated Series for fans

01:18 What makes the series a unique take on Batman

02:17 The series' influence on Batman's portrayal in culture

03:43 The show's timeless aesthetic and storytelling approach

04:29 The process of creating the book and interviews with creators

09:45 Talking to the show's creators and cast

17:31 Surprising insights from interviews about the show's production

22:52 What the book aims to teach about adaptation and animation

25:53 The future of animation and its cultural importance

34:29 Where to find the book and final thoughts

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In this conversation, David Whalen shares his journey of creating a long-form indie comic series, The Offspring, and discusses the challenges and rewards of self-publishing, storytelling, and building a community. He also talks about his creative process, dealing with trauma themes, and plans for future projects.

https://www.correcthandedcomics.com/

https://www.amazon.com/Offspring-OMNIBUS-Issues-1-13-ebook/dp/B09B8QDRG5/ref=sr_1_6?dchild=1&keywords=offspring+whalen&qid=1628605719&s=digital-text&sr=1-6

David Whalen’s Social Media: Instagram - @Correct_Handed X - @Correct_Handed FaceBook - @CorrectHandedComics 

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Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to David Whalen and his work

01:23 Updates on The Offspring series and focus on long-form storytelling

02:37 The themes of childhood trauma and character development

03:39 Starting the series at 17 and the journey to 50 issues

05:57 The story's deeper themes of trauma and healing

07:06 The importance of stubbornness and perseverance

08:03 Personal influences and childhood experiences in storytelling

09:44 Depression, mental health, and representation in comics

11:20 Research and authenticity in portraying mental health issues

13:42 Using supernatural elements as metaphors for real-world issues

15:38 Robin Williams, trauma, and mental health awareness

17:40 The significance of community and safe spaces in trauma recovery

20:39 Character relationships and the theme of trust and family

23:14 Distribution channels: print, digital, and future plans

25:06 The creative process and working solo as a comic creator

27:14 Challenges and benefits of being a one-man operation

29:17 Future projects, omnibus collections, and long-term goals

32:36 The importance of physical copies and legacy planning

34:25 Creating quality work quickly and efficiently

37:04 Final season of The Offspring and upcoming release plans

39:26 Post-series projects and new ideas

41:43 Collaborations, commissions, and supporting other creators

43:55 The power of social media and visual marketing

46:18 Engaging with fans and the comic book community

48:14 The cultural landscape of comics and libraries

52:43 The diversity of comic genres and audience interests

55:45 The future of indie comics and distribution strategies

57:02 Upcoming conventions and ways to follow David Whalen

58:17 Final thoughts and encouragement for indie creators

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In this conversation, C.E. Massari shares his journey from martial arts enthusiast to comic creator, discussing his latest graphic novel 'The Mafia versus the Clan,' the challenges of indie publishing, and how martial arts philosophy influences his storytelling. C.E. Massari shares his journey of creating the graphic novel 'Mafia versus the Clan,' exploring family history, mafia stories, and innovative publishing models. Discover how he combines personal history with gritty storytelling and the strategic approach to indie publishing.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/cemassari/the-mafia-vs-the-klan?tab=prelaunch-story

https://cemassari.com/

C.E. Massari’s Social Media: Instagram - @C.E.Massari

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Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to Mafia versus the Clan and creator's background

00:07 Introduction to guest and his works

01:45 The story behind 'The Six Swords' and publishing journey

02:12 Family history and mafia stories: Frankie Flowers and Chicken Mantesta

03:32 Transition from publisher to self-publishing and lessons learned

04:57 Personal family trauma and its influence on storytelling

05:24 Building relationships with Source Point Press

07:05 Martial arts as a philosophy and its influence on storytelling

10:01 Researching family history and uncovering Augustina's story

11:11 The passion for MMA and martial arts from childhood

15:05 Creative process: blending history with gritty graphic novel style

18:16 The creative process and artistic influences in comics

20:04 Strategic indie publishing: Kickstarter, print runs, and distribution

24:25 Incorporating martial arts themes into comic stories

24:51 Use of black and white noir art with selective red accents

30:03 Building a community and exclusive content for Kickstarter backers

35:07 Future plans: sequels, merchandise, and expanding the Mafia universe

37:30 Overview of 'The Mafia versus the Clan' and its historical basis

39:59 Final thoughts: supporting indie creators and storytelling importance

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In this conversation, Matt Frank shares his journey in the kaiju art world, his experiences working on Godzilla comics, and the creative process behind his latest Kickstarter project, State of the Monsters. Discover insights into comic creation, fandom, and the art of designing original monsters.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/lagunastudios/state-of-the-monsters?ref=android_project_share

https://www.mattfrankart.net/

https://www.deviantart.com/kaijusamurai

Matt Frank’s Social Media: Instagram - @Mattzilla85 X - @Spankzilla85

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Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction and guest background

01:02 Matt Frank's early work and Godzilla comics

03:50 Fandom and childhood influences

09:14 Experience working on Rulers of Earth

13:39 Art style, deadlines, and influences

20:26 Designing original kaiju and creative challenges

40:20 Kickstarter success and project overview

42:39 Setting of State of the Monsters

46:56 Designing monsters with Texas influence

52:40 Choosing Laguna Studios and crowdfunding

57:43 Follow and support Matt Frank

01:00:04 Closing remarks and upcoming events

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In this episode, Brian Wolf from Summit Comics shares insights into their current projects, crowdfunding strategies, and plans for expanding their universe through comics, merchandise, and community engagement. Brian discusses his journey as a comic artist and writer, the challenges of creating and finishing his projects, and the evolving landscape of comic book publishing through Kickstarter and traditional markets. He shares insights on storytelling preferences, the importance of community, and future plans for Summit Comics.

https://readsumm.it/

https://readsummit.substack.com/

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/thedragonfly/the-go-to-guys-1-summit-comics?ref=profile_saved_projects_prelaunch&category_id=Q2F0ZWdvcnktMjUw

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/orangecone/summit-comic-upheaval-1-3-action-adventure-superhero?ref=discover_saved_projects&category_id=250

Summit Comic’s Social Media: Instagram - @ReadSummit X - @ReadSummit FaceBook - https://www.facebook.com/summitcomics

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Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to Brian Wolf and Summit Comics

00:07 The debate over graphic novels vs. ongoing comics

02:35 Current Campaigns and Projects at Summit Comics

05:00 Crowdfunding Strategies and Campaign Management

08:07 Using Substack and Mailing Lists to Grow Audience

10:53 Developing New Series: Jetpack Morgan and Summit Rogues

14:30 Merchandising Ideas and Corner Box T-Shirts

17:45 Handling Production, Deadlines, and Editorial Process

21:00 Community Engagement and Fan Interaction

24:33 Future Projects and Campaigns Planning

27:59 Closing Remarks and How to Support Summit Comics

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In this conversation, Joseph Schmalke shares his journey from working with Scout Comics to founding Midnight Factory, his creative process, and insights into the indie comic industry. Discover how he balances Kickstarter and direct market strategies, and get a behind-the-scenes look at his popular titles like Seven Years in Darkness and Murder Hobo.

https://midnightfactorypress.com/

https://josephschmalke.com/

https://www.lunardistribution.com/home/search?term=midnight+factory

Joseph Schmalke’s Social Media: Instagram - @Schmalke

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Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction and guest background

00:44 Journey from Scout to Midnight Factory

02:26 Creating and publishing Seven Years in Darkness

04:22 Evolving genres and titles

07:52 Balancing Kickstarter and direct market

11:24 Marketing strategies and audience outreach

16:45 Focus on horror, sci-fi, and the bizarre

22:44 The importance of accessibility in comic size

28:57 Future projects and upcoming releases

35:57 Murder Hobo series and role-playing game influence

44:17 Prophets of Doom and creative collaborations

52:26 Final thoughts and advice for indie creators

Thanks for Listening!