Neighborhood Comics Convo

It's an Art(s) on the Air collab!

Subscribe to Art(s) on the Air here: https://artontheair.podbean.com/

Join Kate Stanton Melendez for an interview with Lee Heidel, Owner and Managing Partner of Neighborhood Comics. 

Episode Guest: Waco O’Guin

Waco O’Guin and I have a history. And luckily for me, we also have a present and a future.

I’ve known animation tycoon/show runner/comedy writer/entrepreneur/serial day trader Waco O’Guin since junior high school. I’m extremely proud of all he’s accomplished. From winning a Butterfinger art contest to crashing the Music Video Awards, he was always the coolest guy in my rotation. These days we don’t see each other as often as I’d like, but when we do, we’re right back in the thick of things.

In this episode of Neighborhood Comics Convo, we talk about Waco’s animation career, getting blackout in Savannah for his 21st birthday and his new Kickstarter graphic novel project.

Paradise PD & Farzar: The Final Season Graphic Novel

As a television creator, you don’t always get to end a show on your own terms. This graphic novel project allows Waco and his partner Roger the chance to tell one last story. If you’ve enjoyed their shows on Netflix, this is the (not so?) happy ending you’ve been waiting to enjoy. The campaign ends on April 2 and is fully funded.

Damn Show Plus

We also discussed the underground phenomenon the Damn! Show and its second life on a custom streaming platform. If you want to see where Waco and Roger started, this is just for you.

Those Scruggs

You can check out Waco’s latest creation, Those Scruggs wherever you watch videos online. Facebook

If you’re listening to the audio version, be sure to visit our website to see vintage photos of me and Waco in high school. We were very, very cool guys.

And no, you can’t hear our rap album.

Neighborhood Comics is a reader-supported indie comic shop. To receive new posts and support our work, become a subscriber.

I’m so excited to share the conversation that I had with comics superstar Deanna Soukiasian earlier this month. I hate the microphone that I used, but hey, you come for the yap, not the tech. And the yap with Dee is always stellar.

Thanks for reading Neighborhood Comics! This episode is public so feel free to share it.

In this episode, we discuss the state of comics, focusing on conventions, the rise of zines, the importance of libraries, and what’s next for indie comics. Deanna shares her experiences at MICE and CXC, her role in editing and teaching, and her passion for promoting young artists.

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Fred C. Stresing is a long-time friend of the shop. He and partner Meg Casey are now working with one of our favorite podcasts, Doughboys, to bring its “kids club for adults” to life in 4 colors.

In this week’s episode of Neighborhood Comics Convo we talk about Fred’s career - past, present and future - chatting about licensed comic work and what makes the Doughboys so special.

You can buy Doughboys the Comic Book: Mitch and Wiger Chew America / Crisis on Infinite Girths right now at Neighborhood Comics.

Follow Fred at Instagram

In this convo, Lee Heidel and Jamie Jones chat on the significance of HeroesCon — “Comic Book Homecoming” as Jamie calls it — the challenges and joys of being an independent creator, and the importance of community in the comic industry.

Neighborhood Comics is a reader-supported comic shop. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

They discuss the evolution of comic book conventions, the role nostalgia plays in comic appreciation, and the innovative Power Pulp distribution coop that supports independent comic creators creators. Jamie shares insights on building relationships at conventions, tips for new creators, and the success of community-driven events like Drink and Draw. We also realized that Jamie’s art is just like this podcast as “Moms are the target audience.”

Follow Jamie over here → Jamie Jones and at artofjamiejones pretty much everywhere.

I was thrilled to chat with Savannah artist Thao Hong about their work and recent tabling experience at DCAZ.

In this Episode:

* Thao Hong shares her creative process and workspace.

* Thao’s collaboration with her fiancé enhances her artistic journey.

* Listening to podcasts and music fuels her creativity.

* Toy making evolved from a hobby to a significant part of her work.

* The Egg Boys brand reflects her love for food and art.

* Interactive tabling strategies engage audiences at conventions.

* DCAZ provided a unique platform for artists to connect with the public.

* Community support is vital for artistic growth and accountability.

* Cohesive presentation of work enhances audience experience.

Summary

In this conversation, Lee Heidel speaks with Savannah artist Thao Hong about her creative journey, the importance of community, and her unique approach to art and toy making. They discuss her experiences at the DCAZ Fest, the concept behind her Egg Boys brand, and the interactive strategies she employs at conventions. Thao shares insights on the significance of collaboration, the joy of creating, and the role of accountability in artistic endeavors. The conversation highlights the vibrant art scene in Savannah and the importance of making art accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Choice Quotes

* "I love a good podcast."

* "Eggs are my artistic muse."

* "Art should be fun and playful."

It was a treat to sit down with Keith Baudry Smith and learn about his background in various professions before becoming a coffee shop owner.

We totally vibed about the importance of community and relationships in business. Both of our shops aim to create a unique and immersive experience for customers. Community events and engagement opportunities are crucial for building a loyal customer base.

In order to grow, Keith is exploring innovative fundraising methods including building upon a character universe he created.

Visit: https://www.pourboycoffee.com/

Watch this episode on Youtube.

In this chat, Lee and Deanna discuss the launch of the Art Throbs Summer Reading Program, the importance of community in fostering creativity, and the role of comics in education and literacy. They explore the diverse reading list curated for the program, share insights on the Power to the Panel initiative, and reflect on Deanna's experience as an artist in residence. The discussion highlights the significance of mentorship, feedback, and community engagement in the creative process.

Follow Deanna Soukiasian at heyyisdeedeehome on Instagram and watch Editor… I Hardly Know Her at Youtube.

Takeaways

* The importance of community in fostering creativity.

* Summer reading programs can engage diverse audiences.

* Comics can be a powerful tool for literacy.

* Balancing professional work with personal projects is essential.

* The role of mentorship in the creative process.

* Diverse reading lists can attract a wider audience.

* Comics education is worthwhile for both youth and adults.

* Engaging with local artists can enhance community ties.

* Feedback and critique are crucial for growth in creative fields.

* Creating incentives can motivate participation in reading programs.

Our Guest: Stephen Robinson

Stephen Robinson is a journalist, playwright and columnist with his own Substack: The Play Typer Guy. Follow him there and subscribe to his podcast.

Summary

In this conversation, Lee and Stephen explore the legacy of Superman, drawing parallels between historical events and contemporary societal issues. They discuss Superman's origins, his role as a symbol of hope and justice, and the complexities of his character in relation to modern culture. The dialogue delves into themes of identity, immigration, and the evolution of superhero narratives, emphasizing the importance of understanding these characters within their historical and cultural contexts.

Takeaways

* The rise of fascism today mirrors historical events from the 1930s.

* Superman's creation was a response to societal fears and injustices.

* The character of Superman has evolved significantly over the decades.

* Superman embodies the immigrant narrative, representing hope and resilience.

* The duality of identity is a central theme in superhero stories.

* Superman serves as a reflection of societal values and challenges.

* The importance of legacy in shaping superhero narratives cannot be overstated.

* Modern storytelling must address contemporary issues through the lens of superheroes.

* Superheroes can inspire change and reflect our better selves.

* Understanding the historical context of superheroes enriches their narratives.

Chapters

* 00:00 Reflections on Modern Society and Historical Parallels

* 02:21 The Legacy of Superman: Origins and Evolution

* 03:08 Intro

* 05:15 Superman's Cultural Impact and Adaptations

* 08:19 Personal Connections to Superman: Childhood Memories

* 11:12 The Silver Age of Superman: A Unique Era

* 13:58 Superman's Powers and Storytelling Challenges

* 17:01 Superman's Rural Roots and Political Resonance

* 19:50 Immigrant Identity and Superman's Origin Story

* 28:33 Cultural Heritage and Identity in Superhero Narratives

* 31:29 The Evolution of Lex Luthor: From Mad Scientist to Billionaire

* 34:05 Superman’s Role in Society: A Reflection on Modern Issues

* 37:03 The New Superman: Exploring Absolute Superman

* 40:31 The Why Behind Superman: Arrogance and Responsibility

* 45:24 Reimagining Superheroes in a Modern Context

* 51:47 The Evolution of Superheroes and Their Stories

* 57:11 Secret Identities and Their Significance

* 01:03:09 The Role of Art and History in Superhero Narratives

* 01:07:19 The Complexity of Villains and Heroes

* 01:10:27 Closing Thoughts and Future Endeavors

Huge thanks to our pal Marin Smith for recording a video preview of the new X-Men comic Rogue: The Savage Land. You can follow Marin on Instagram at Strikixit.