The United States Department of Nerds Podcast

On this episode of The USDN Podcast, The Chairman sits down with Collin McLamore, creator of Skyline Comics and the growing Skyline Universe.Collin discusses the origins of his flagship character Outline, the personal and grounded themes shaping his first series, and what it means to start building a creator-owned comic universe at a young age. The conversation also explores the realities of indie comics, the challenge of marketing through social media, and the long-term vision for Skyline Comics.If you enjoy discovering new indie comic creators and hearing the stories behind the books, this is an episode you won't want to miss.Follow Skyline Comics:TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@skylinecomics Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialskylinecomics YouTube: https://youtube.com/@skyline-comicsCollector Tip of the Week: Protect your comics with BCW Supplies using the USDN affiliate link: https://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=usdn Use code USDN for 10% off.Affiliate disclosure: USDN may earn a commission if you use our link or code.

In this episode of The USDN Podcast, The Chairman sits down with Deece Casillas, stand-up comedian turned comic creator and founder of Inferno Comics.Deece discusses the origins of his indie comic Kill Stan, a dark character-driven story centered around trauma, purpose, and the complicated human desire to keep going even when everything feels lost.The conversation explores Dees' journey from comedy writing into the world of comics, the creation of Inferno Comics, and what it takes to build a creator-owned publishing label in the modern indie comic landscape.Topics include:• The inspiration behind Kill Stan • Launching Inferno Comics • The rise of indie and creator-owned comics • Marketing and selling comics independently • Why authentic storytelling matters more than everIf you're passionate about indie comics, creator journeys, and the future of independent storytelling, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.Support the showBCW Comic Book Supplieshttps://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=usdnUse code USDN for 10% off your orderAffiliate disclosure: USDN may earn a commission if you use our link or code.#IndieComics, #KillStan, #InfernoComics, #ComicBookPodcast, #CreatorOwnedComics, #IndependentComics, #ComicCreators, #GraphicNovels, #ComicCommunity, #NerdCulture

Welcome to The USDN Podcast - where indie comics come to life.On this episode of the USDN Podcast, The Chairman is joined by Akihiro Goska, director of Froglight Studio, an emerging indie manga studio from the Philippines.Akihiro shares how his creative journey began with Wattpad writing during lockdown, how Froglight Studio came together, and what it takes to build a collaborative manga project from the ground up. The conversation explores leadership, artistic growth, creative teamwork, and the studio's first major story, Snow's Warm Embrace.They also discuss the rise of manga creation outside Japan, the challenges of building recognition as a new studio, and Froglight's future plans in both manga and animation.Follow Froglight Studio: Facebook: Froglight Studio Instagram: Froglight Studio TikTok: Froglight Studio Subscribe and join the Council of Nerds for more interviews with indie comic creators, storytellers, crowdfunders, and rising voices in the world of comics. 

On this episode of the USDN Podcast, host The Chairman sits down with creator David Biggs, founder of Disco Punk Comics, to explore the origins of his upcoming indie comic series Once Upon a Hive in the West.Inspired by spaghetti westerns and the strange realities of insect life cycles, the series imagines a gritty frontier where bugs become gunslingers, outlaws, and legends of the Wild West.David shares the story behind launching Disco Punk Comics, the lessons he's learned navigating the indie comics scene, and how collaboration and community are shaping the future of his publishing label.The conversation also dives into the realities of indie comic production - crowdfunding, working with artists, building creative teams, and balancing the passion of storytelling with the business of comics.For anyone interested in indie comics, Kickstarter publishing, and creator-driven storytelling, this episode offers an inside look at what it takes to build a comic from the ground up.Follow David Biggs / Disco Punk ComicsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/discopunkcomics Website: https://discopunkcomics.com

Russell Berger joins The USDN Podcast to discuss A Knight's Title, his long-running independent sci-fi fantasy saga, and the realities of building a creator-owned universe without the backing of a major publisher.In this conversation, Russell shares how his love of creative writing began in elementary school, how influences like King Arthur, Star Wars, Highlander, anime, and comics helped shape his storytelling, and why A Knight's Title evolved into an episodic format instead of a traditional single-volume release.The episode also explores the business and mindset side of independent creation — from self-publishing out of necessity, to the difficulty of audience growth, to the importance of consistency, branding, and staying connected to readers.Russell also discusses the meaning of knighthood in his universe, the role of “blood abilities” in the story, his plans for future physical editions, and why he believes animation would be the ideal adaptation format for A Knight's Title.This is a strong conversation for anyone interested in indie publishing, worldbuilding, serialized storytelling, and the creator mindset it takes to keep going when no one hands you the opportunity.Follow Russell BergerInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/KingDarkhart Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KingDarkhart?mibextid=LQQJ4d X: https://x.com/KingDarkhart Official Website: https://www.aknightstitle.com/#indiecomics, #scififantasy, #selfpublishing, #authorinterview, #creatorowned, #worldbuilding, #indieauthor, #podcast, #fantasybooks, #scifiwriter

Mark C. Dooley - The Genesis of a Fanboy & The Actual Adventures of Mark and DeeMark C. Dooley joins The USDN Podcast to talk about growing up a comic book fan before fandom was mainstream — and how the 1960s Batman TV era temporarily turned bullying into popularity overnight.Mark is the creator of MARK AND DEE: GENESIS OF A FANBOY (an autobiographical comic strip series spanning childhood into the teen years) and THE ACTUAL, SEMI-TRUE ADVENTURES OF MARK AND DEE (a contemporary series centered around community, friendship, and comic shop culture).We dive into Batmania, creativity as survival, meeting Dee at age 12, turning real-life triumph and tragedy into comics, and why indie storytelling hits different when it's lived.We also spotlight Mark's current Kickstarter for GENESIS OF A FANBOY Volume One, collecting years of strips into a single book, plus what's next with THE ACTUAL Volume One and Issue #6 (the wedding story).Guest Links: Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/markanddee/mark-and-dee-genesis-of-a-fanboy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.c.dooley/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markcdooley/ Substack: https://substack.com/@markcdooley1 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mcdooley1.bsky.social Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/u10978651 Blogspot: https://deboss1.blogspot.com/

Doug Marcaida - LINEAGE, Martial Arts Philosophy & Bringing Real Combat to ComicsForged in Fire judge and martial arts expert Doug Marcaida joins The USDN Podcast to discuss LINEAGE: Brotherhood of the Blade — a grounded, action-driven comic series published by Kid Heroes Productions.Blending authentic Filipino Martial Arts philosophy with brotherhood, legacy, and intelligent combat storytelling, LINEAGE follows two estranged brothers forced to confront their past and the mysterious blade tied to their family history.We explore Doug's journey from weapons specialist to storyteller, the philosophy behind “Keep Everyone Alive,” Kickstarter success, cultural representation in comics, and the future of the series.Support LINEAGE: https://kidhero.es/lineage Follow Doug Marcaida: https://instagram.com/dougmarcaidaThe USDN Podcast spotlights indie comic creators, Kickstarter campaigns, and the real stories behind the panels.The USDN Podcast - Where Indie Comics Come To Life! #DougMarcaida #LineageComic #IndieComics #Kickstarter #MartialArts #ComicBooks #CreatorOwned #USDNPodcast

Braxton A. Cosby - The Yasuke Duology & Mythic Historical StorytellingHistory remembers warriors.Stories remember legends.On this episode of The USDN Podcast, bestselling author Braxton A. Cosby joins us to explore the YASUKE Duology, a bold reimagining of history's first African samurai, blending documented legacy with mythic fantasy.From the slave markets of India to feudal Japan…From loyalty under Oda Nobunaga to the supernatural realm of Elsewhere…We discuss:• Researching real historical figures• Expanding prose into graphic novels• The emotional themes behind Yasuke's journey• Indie comics publishing in today's market• Building a long-term storytelling careerWith over 20 books, multiple awards, and a growing transmedia footprint, Braxton shares insights for both readers and creators navigating the evolving comics and publishing landscape.Follow Braxton A. Cosby:www.braxtoncosby.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/braxtonacosby/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BraxtonACosbyThe USDN Podcast - Where Indie Comics Come to Life.#indiecomics #yasuke #graphicnovel #historicalfantasy #authorinterview #comiccreator #samuraihistory #worldbuilding #indiepublishing

Todd Black — Tokyo Blade Detectives #1–12 & The Future of Indie Sci-Fi ComicsIn this episode of The USDN Podcast, we sit down with comic creator Todd Black to discuss his cyberpunk detective series Tokyo Blade Detectives and the Kickstarter campaign collecting issues #1–12.Set 200 years in the future where guns are outlawed but violence still thrives, the series explores faction warfare, advanced technology, and the emotional consequences of conflict through the eyes of teenage detective Miko.We talk about:Building a long-running indie comic universeCrowdfunding strategy and Kickstarter lessonsCollaboration with international comic artistsExpanding creator-owned stories beyond comicsWriting the Thunder Rosa comic biographyAdvice for indie creators navigating today's industryIf you're passionate about indie comics, sci-fi storytelling, and creator-driven publishing, this conversation is for you.Support the Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/blackmagicwolf/tokyo-blade-detectives-1-12Follow Todd Black: X: https://x.com/Guardians_Comic Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/toddblack.bsky.socialThe USDN Podcast — Where Indie Comics Come to Life.

On this episode of The USDN Podcast, we sit down with indie comic creator Alfred Paige to discuss Hostile Assets — an upcoming crossover event uniting Gun Goth and Footpath in a brutal horror-action one-shot heading to Kickstarter this April.We explore Alfred's journey in indie comics, the collaboration with Mark Poulton of Haunted Pizza Comics, the creative process behind crossover storytelling, and what it takes to launch and sustain creator-owned comic projects through crowdfunding.This conversation dives into worldbuilding, indie publishing realities, horror storytelling influences, and the evolving landscape of Kickstarter comics.Kickstarter Links:https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/koniwaves/gun-goth-x-footpath-hostile-assetshttps://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jonathanhedrick/footpath-dangerous-nightshttps://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sixfifteencomics/the-bearGuest Socials:https://www.facebook.com/Paige1productionshttps://www.facebook.com/paige.dollarzThe USDN Podcast — Where Indie Comics Come to Life.

Legacy Rising: Building Gods, Monsters & Myth with Gary SeawardA story carried since 2008 finally takes shape.This week on The USDN Podcast, we welcome creator and artist Gary Seaward to discuss Legacy: Idols & Bones — a new indie comic universe blending superhero mythology, sci-fi scale, and horror-driven consequences.We explore the origins of the world, the characters shaping its future, and the Kickstarter campaign launching Issues #1 and #2.From Eidolon and Carcass to Pulse, Widow-Maker, and Re'Ordain — this is a deep dive into building modern indie mythology from the ground up.

He Was Dying… Then the Government Turned Him Into a Weapon | PorTroyal Smith – The Rogue RecordingsHe was dying.Then the government offered him survival.The price? Becoming a weapon.In this episode of The USDN Podcast, we sit down with PorTroyal Smith (Nathan Lebens), author of The Rogue Recordings, to explore a superhero saga grounded in military realism, moral ambiguity, and the true cost of power.From operating missiles in North Dakota to building a layered narrative about government-created super soldiers, PorTroyal shares the journey behind Shadowalker and Shadowar — and the question that defines the series:When survival changes who you are… are you still the hero?We discuss:• Military influence in storytelling• Weaponized humanity• Power and moral consequence• The evolution from Shadowalker to Shadowar• Writing stories that deepen on a second read

Raised to Kill, Fighting Monsters — Akemi & Indie Comics with John HollandSome stories are born from imagination. Others are forged through survival.In this episode of The USDN Podcast, we welcome writer and publisher John Holland of Die Bold Comics to the Council to discuss Akemi, his upcoming Fund My Comic crowdfunder launching around the time of this conversation.Akemi tells the story of a young woman raised as an assassin who escapes her past in Japan, only to find herself drawn into a hidden war against demons and monsters in the United States. We explore the emotional weight behind the story, the balance between action and trauma, and how monsters can serve as metaphors for the scars we carry.John also shares insight into his upcoming Die Bold Comics Digital Library campaign on Zoop — a digital collection of nearly 30 previously published works, including A Girl and Her Dog, Alma, Robot Sex, and more.This episode dives into legacy, longevity, crowdfunding strategy, and the realities of building a lasting indie comics career.If you care about bold storytelling and supporting creator-owned comics, this is a conversation you don't want to miss.

SaGia: Building an Anime-Inspired Indie World with Arnézia “wimbearn” WimberlyOn this episode of the USDN Podcast, The Chairman is joined by Arnézia “wimbearn” Wimberly, creator of SaGia, an anime-inspired indie sci-fi fantasy series blending dragons, fallen gods, alien races, and mythic relics into a bold original universe.Influenced by Akira Toriyama and Ken Sugimori, SaGia explores the fall of the Sagian Gods, the rise of the Drakens, and a cross-world conflict that threatens both Earth and Sariju. Through powerful character relationships, high-energy action, and deep lore, Arnézia is building a saga driven by legacy, consequence, and imagination.In this conversation, we cover:Artistic origins and anime influencesCharacter design and visual clarity in actionMythology, relics, and dragon legendsIndie creator realities and adviceThe future of the SaGia universe

Lighting the Shadows of Heroism: Dark City Comics & E.P.I.C ExplainedIn this episode of The United States Department of Nerds, The Chairman sits down with Lonnie Lowe Jr (Lo) — creator and founder of Dark City Comics — to shine a light on E.P.I.C (Earth's Protector in Crisis) and the philosophy behind Lighting the Shadows of Heroism.Dark City Comics is building a universe where grit meets greatness, where heroes are shaped by culture, crisis, and consequence. From street-level struggles to cosmic stakes, Lo shares how lived experience fuels storytelling — and why indie comics are still one of the most powerful creative spaces today.This episode explores:• The origins of Dark City Comics• Redefining heroism for a new generation• The creation of E.P.I.C • The indie grind and the upcoming Kickstarter • The future vision for the Dark City universeIf you believe comics should reflect the world we live in — this is a conversation you don't want to miss.

JUNKET: Hidden Worlds Revealed — Building Myth, Meaning & Indie Worlds with Ray ReynetOn this episode of The USDN Podcast, we're joined by Ray Reynet — independent comic creator, writer, illustrator, animator, and founder of Farlook Studios.Ray is the creator of JUNKET: Hidden Worlds Revealed, a creator-owned comic series that blends mythology, faith, adventure, and bold cartooning with the spirit of classic comics. Inspired by creators like Jack Kirby and Darwyn Cooke, JUNKET has earned a cult following in Florida comic shops and is now expanding into animation, short films, and other media.In this conversation, we explore: • Building an indie comic from the ground up • The realities of self-publishing and creative independence • Storytelling across comics, animation, and myth • Why creator-owned worlds matter now more than everThis episode is a deep dive into the mindset, process, and perseverance behind modern independent comics.

LAST GEN: The Rise of a New Superhero GenerationIn this episode of The United States Department of Nerds, The Chairman is joined by Matt Jasso and Ray MacKay to discuss LAST GEN, a bold new superhero team rising out of The Remnant Universe.The conversation explores legacy, pressure, and identity as a new generation of heroes steps out of the shadow of icons like Atoman and Atomic Thunderbolt. From the massive 92-page LAST GEN #0 to the team's first mission in LAST GEN #1: “Pest Problem,” this interview breaks down how character, creativity, and indie spirit power the series.We also discuss fan participation, visual storytelling, and what the future holds for LAST GEN and The Remnant Universe.

In this episode of The United States Department of Nerds, The Chairman welcomes Nathan Rouse, aka Mr. Unchainedunlimited, creator of JUPITERMAN and the ambitious shared universe known as The Idolverse.Nathan joins the Council of Nerds to discuss his journey as a creator, the importance of inclusive representation in comics, and why JUPITERMAN — an Indigenous Native American tribal hero — was the perfect character to launch a universe built on identity, culture, and purpose.This episode explores the responsibility of storytelling, the power of indie comics, and how creators can build worlds that truly matter.If you're passionate about independent comics, diverse heroes, and meaningful storytelling, this episode is for you.

Walking Dead with Superhumans: The World of Flamevolt with Bruno CatarinoIn this episode of The United States Department of Nerds, the Chairman welcomes back comic creator Bruno Catarino to talk about his latest project, Flamevolt Issue #1 — a brutal, cinematic indie comic described as The Walking Dead with superhumans.Bruno dives into the inspiration behind Flamevolt, how his previous projects shaped this new series, and the creative process behind building a world driven by survival, power, and humanity. We explore the themes, visual identity, and why Issue #1 serves as a powerful entry point for new readers.The conversation also covers the Flamevolt Issue #1 Kickstarter, what backers can expect, and why supporting indie comics at the crowdfunding stage is more important than ever.If you're passionate about indie comics, creator-owned storytelling, and discovering the next big voice in comics — this episode is for you.

Six Fifteen Comics: Creating Black Heroes, Culture, and CommunityOn this episode of The USDN Podcast — Where Indie Comics Come to Life, we're joined by Malcolm McFadden, creator and writer of Six Fifteen Comics, to talk independent comics, creative inspiration, and his latest Kickstarter project The King's Domain #1–2.Malcolm is a hip hop artist, writer, and audio engineer from Annapolis, Maryland, whose passion for comics began at a young age and evolved into a creator-owned comic company focused on telling dope, authentic stories centered around Black characters. Drawing inspiration from icons like Batman, Static, and Spider-Man, Malcolm blends real-life experiences with bold comic book storytelling.In this conversation, we explore:The creative origins of Six Fifteen ComicsThe story and meaning behind the name “Six Fifteen”How music influences comic book storytellingBuilding an indie comic brandA Kickstarter spotlight on The King's Domain #1–2Advice for aspiring comic creators

Quickwire Creator Matthew Jasso Talks Phantom Hawk, Apogee Comics & Indie Superheroes | USDN Podcast⚡

HEAVY METAL WORLDS & MUTANT WARLORDS — Jason Lenox on Lords of the Cosmos #5Enter the cyber-fantasy wasteland of Lords of the Cosmos #5, where mutant warlords, mythic warriors, biomechanical nightmares, and 80s-infused chaos collide. The Chairman sits down with creator and illustrator Jason Lenox to explore the origins of the series, the new arcs introduced in Issue #5, the explosive war on Aiden, and the meticulous line-art process that defines Lenox's unmistakable style.This episode dives deep into: • The birth and evolution of the LOTC universe • Mistress Zemba's rising popularity • “Aliens meets Ninja Turtles” — the Pulse storyline • Building an 80s world for modern readers • Fan-created characters and the dual-campaign strategy

ATRIUM #1 — Inside the High-Stakes Thriller | Steve Bynoe Interview | Comix Asylum x USDN PodcastIn this episode of the USDN Podcast, The Chairman sits down with Steve Bynoe — writer, educator, Editorial Director at Comix Asylum, and co-creator of the action-suspense thriller ATRIUM #1.ATRIUM marks Comix Asylum's transition from covering comics to creating them, delivering a high-stakes, cinematic miniseries where a single donor heart becomes the center of a deadly chase.

USDN Interview | Ben Lacy – Shark of War #9 (Kickstarter Live Now!)Welcome back to The United States Department of Nerds (USDN)!

Writing Imperfect Superhumans: The Story Behind Zip | USDN Interview with Mike ScraseHello Council Members! I'm The Chairman of The United States Department of Nerds (USDN), and today we're diving into the world of ZIP — the British comic about flawed superhumans that doubles as a smart commentary on disability.Joining me is Mike Scrase (Writer), the creator of Zip, published by Markosia Enterprises. With stunning art by San Espina and lettering by Ferran Delgado, Zip has already delivered three powerful issues — and now Issue #4 is heading to Kickstarter!In this episode, we'll explore:The origins of Zip and Mike's journey into comicsHow disability became central to the story of imperfect superhumansThe challenges and care taken when writing about disability responsiblyWhat's in store for Issue #4 (funerals, time travel, and huge twists!)The Kickstarter campaign, rewards, and why indie publishing mattersIf you've ever wanted to know how to write superhumans with depth, care, and realism — this is the episode for you.

Hello there, it's The Chairman of the United States Department of Nerds (USDN)—where we are for the people, by the people, and of the people!In this episode, I sit down with Bruno Catarino to talk about his brand-new comic book project, Crimson Bay—a dark, action-packed series inspired by 1990s fighting games and brought to life through Kickstarter.We dive into:

What happens when superheroes aren't perfect? In this deep-dive interview, The Chairman of the United States Department of Nerds sits down with Mike Scrase, writer of Zip—a British indie comic published by Markosia Enterprises that redefines what it means to be superhuman.Together, we explore:

VeVe x Star Wars: What's Next for Digital Collectibles? | Interview with Dan CrothersIn this exclusive interview, we sit down with Dan Crothers, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of VeVe, to explore what's coming to the platform—especially for Star Wars fans! From AR-enhanced Stormtrooper helmets to Mandalorian dioramas, this is your insider look into the galaxy of digital collectibles.