The Xero for Hire Podcast

More Story, Less Art


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Total Runtime: ~10 min

(00:00–00:40) – Intro & Framing

* Zero starts while listening to a video by YouTuber Perch, who discusses improving the comic industry.

* Notes that Perch often speaks to large publishers—those who already operate at scale (10–15K sales per title).

(00:40–01:30) – His Reality vs. Industry Expectations

* Shares his 2023 Indiegogo campaign: raised ~$500, but spent over $2K producing a 22-page comic.

* Covered the rest from personal funds—something he can’t do again this year.

(01:30–03:00) – Options Moving Forward

* Recognizes crowdfunding again (Kickstarter, etc.) may only raise ~$500.

* Considers scaling back: a 10-page installment for the Apocalyptiverse Magazine September issue—but even that costs ~$1K at $100 per B&W page.

* Notes many quality artists charge $125–$150/page, making 10 pages unattainable under his budget.

(03:00–04:20) – The Team vs. Solo Creator Dilemma

* A collaborative zine model could work if multiple artists chip in resources—but not all creators share that vision.

* As a solo writer without art skills, he's left with limited options.

(04:20–05:30) – The Crowdfund Critique

* Pushes back on the cynical attitude that "if you can't afford it, don't make it."

* Emphasizes he’s not asking whether to make it—he’s asking how to make it, as a writer who depends on artists.

(05:30–07:00) – Budget Breakdown & Hybrid Format Idea

* Can’t afford full comics, but may be able to fund 5–6 pages over time.

* Suggests a novella or short story printed in book format (6x9), filled with select, high-quality illustrations instead of full-page comics.

(07:00–09:00) – Rethinking Visual Storytelling

* Challenges the “filler panels” of standard comics.

* Proposes a hybrid model: write the story in prose, then insert intentional, richly illustrated moments—like double-page splashes—only where needed.

* Art should show key moments, not just decorate.

(09:00–10:06) – Call for Feedback

* Asks fans for feedback on this format shift.

* Wants to know: Would you enjoy a story-driven novella that includes only a few powerful comic-style illustrations?

* Signs off open-ended, looking forward to reader comments.

🧠 Key Takeaway:

“What if I skip the filler panels and just tell the story—with only the best art I can afford, at the exact moments it matters?”A compelling case for a hybrid prose/art model in indie publishing.



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The Xero for Hire PodcastBy J. K. Slaughter