Under the Mask

My guest today is a published writer and creator. He first got on the scene with Junior Braves of the Apocalypse, which he describes as a “The Goonies meets The Walking Dead.”His latest series, Starlite, features a group of former child superheroes trapped in space with space cat-pirates and trans-dimensional spider-wizards.Starlite is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through 6/2/21. Go support it HERE!LINKS:Starlite's Kickstarter Page - www.starlitecomicbook.comSOCIAL MEDIA:Twitter - @ThatAmazingTwitInstagram - @ThatAmazingTwitStarlite on Twitter - @StarliteComicStarlite on Instagram - @StarliteComic

My guest today is Curtis “Specks” Thompson, the writer and creator of the comic series Legacy of the View. His series follows southern high school student Chaz Johnson, as he comes to terms with his new superpowers while just wanting to live his normal teenage life as a baseball player.After his first foray on Kickstarter failed, Curtis took measurable steps to increase his audience, and relaunched to success. We find out exactly how he did it in this episode (his current Kickstarter just passed his funding goal, and he's on to stretch goals!).Enjoy!Legacy of the View is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through 6/3/2021. You can support it HERE!SHOW NOTES:Legacy of the View on Kickstarter - www.kickstarter.com/projects/specks706/legacy-of-the-view-3Legacy of the View's Website - www.legacyoftheview.comSOCIAL MEDIA:Facebook - @LegacyOfTheViewInstagram - @LegacyOfTheView

KJ Kaminski had a problem. His first series, The Resistants (along with its spin-offs), had been fairly well received. KJ found himself attending conventions all across America.But what do you do when your new title is coming out?It's totally new and totally different, so you might be worried about whether your existing audience will jump on board for another series!KJ and I talk about his fears and apprehensions with launching his new series, Sophia Saturn, and what steps he took to launch this new title to the stars!Enjoy!Sophia Saturn is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through 4/30/21. You can support it HERE!SHOW NOTESSophia Saturn #1 - 5 Kickstarter - www.sophiasaturn.comBig Blue Comics' Website - www.bigbluecomics.comSOCIAL MEDIAFacebook - @BigBlueComicsTwitter - @BigBlueComicsKJ on Twitter - @KJKaminski11Instagram - @BigBlueComics

Enenra is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through 3/26/21. You can support it HERE!LINKS:Enenra’s Kickstarter Page - www.kickstarter.com/projects/a-aron/enenra-issue-3-and-4SOCIAL MEDIA:Twitter - @Aaron_WrobFacebook - @EnenraGNovelFacebook - @AJRoblewski1

Nicholas Mueller had a problem.He had just launched his first book, Demon Hunter Raven, but it was barely getting any traction! After his first campaign barely funded, he realized something needed to change.Now, Nicholas is four issues into his comic series, and his latest crowdfunding launch funded in mere days. We’re talking with him about his work and career, and how he grew his fanbase and built momentum by just “being a real person.”If you’re looking for some strategies to build your brand, this is the one to listen to!Enjoy!Demon Hunter Raven is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through 3/19/21. You can support it HERE!SHOW NOTES:Demon Hunter Raven #0 - 3 Kickstarter - www.kickstarter.com/projects/dhrchap1/demon-hunter-raven-chapter-3BMR Comics Website - www.bmrcomics.comSOCIAL MEDIA:Facebook - @BMRComicsTwitter - @NicholasMulle7Instagram - @BMRComics

My guest today is a comic book artist, writer, and creator who left her hometown in the United States to live abroad in Kushima, Japan. She’s the creator of Maiden in Disguise, a comic book following the coming-of-age story of a gamer girl and her epic hero avatar in an online MMORPG.We talk about the highs and lows of writing AND creating, the differences between American and Japanese comics and culture, and so much more!Maiden in Disguise is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through 3/11/21. You can support it HERE!SHOW NOTES:Maiden in Disguise Kickstarter - www.kickstarter.com/projects/thebitzr/maiden-in-disguise-manga-1-gamer-girl-or-epic-heroEotera Website (Home of Bitsy’s Multiverse) - www.eotera.comSOCIAL MEDIA:Instagram - @BitsyTandem_TheBitzrTwitter - @TheBitzrFacebook - @theBitzr

In this episode of Under the Mask, we’re taking you back to a time where comic titles were liberally littered with colorful adjectives. Words like uncanny, fantastic, and sensational!Randy Stone is a comic book writer and creator, known for his works Champion, published by Arcana, and Eskimo Kisses, published by Scout Comics. He’s also the creator of the crime-noir comic anthology Crime Pays.His latest work, The Sensational Swan #1, features a psychiatrist by day who’s also a superhero when the sun goes down? How would he diagnose himself? We discuss The Sensational Swan as well as finding a creative team, how this and his last anthology have raised his visibility in the comics scene.The Sensational Swan #1 is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through 2/28/21. You can support it HERE.Enjoy!LINKS:The Sensational Swan Kickstarter - www.altruistcomics.com/swanAltruist Comics Website = www.altruistcomics.comSOCIAL MEDIA:Facebook - @altruistcomicsTwitter - @altruistcomicsRandy Stone’s Twitter - @randystonecotw

This week, I’m talking with Gustavo Soria, a comic book writer, creator, and artist based out of Guatemala.Soria released his debut comic book, The Table, as a webcomic. He recently printed the book and put it on the #1 online sales platform, Amazon. We talk about his process behind creating, how an editor helped him focus, and also how the Guatemalan comic book scene is different than America.Enjoy!The Table is available to read for free as a webcomic HERE. You can also buy a physical copy of The Table on Amazon HERE.SHOW NOTES:The Table Webcomic - www.zigmacomics.com/thetableThe Table on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Table-Gustavo-SoriaSOCIAL MEDIA:Facebook - @TheZigmaComicsInstagram - @Zigma_Comics

This is a candid discussion with J.W. Sims that was cut from the final episode. J.W. Sims has had a tough couple of years: he was diagnosed with cancer, and had to deal with several personal losses. I didn’t know this when going into the interview with him, and our talk took a small detour discussing those issues.I’m sharing this mostly unedited because, even though we are comic creators, above all we are HUMAN, and oftentimes this is information that wouldn’t be shared.I am sharing this in the hopes that, if you need to hear one of the many messages in this conversation, you hear it. And know that if you are in a bad place, there is help.

This week, I’m talking with comic book artist and colorist J.W. Sims, colorist of Broke Down and Four Dead Bodies. He’s also the owner of Hooligan Alley Comics, publishing books like Darkest Night and Project 34.In latest work, Omni #1, we find out what happens when comic book geek Floyd Miller gains superpowers, and models himself after his favorite fictional superhero, Mega.Omni #1 is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through 1/28/21. Go support it HERE!SHOW NOTES:Omni #1 Kickstarter - www.kickstarter.com/projects/hooliganalleycomics1/omni-1Hooligan Alley Comics’ Website - www.hooliganalleycomics.comSOCIAL MEDIA:Facebook - @TheHooliganAlleyComicsTwitter - @JWSims34Instagram - @HooliganAlley_Comics

This week, I’m speaking with professional artist Patrick Beurmeyer about how networking, marketing, and just a little bit of luck have led to him being a full-time artist.Patrick is the full-time artist for Dark Tidings Press, celebrating this holiday season with the brand new Discordia Holiday Special: The Rotted Lyre and Apocrypha #1.Enjoy!The Rotted Lyre and Apocrypha #1 is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through 12/29/20. Go support it HERE!LINKS:Discordia Winter Special’s Kickstarter - www.kickstarter.com/projects/darktidingspress/the-rotted-lyre-and-apocrypha-1-a-discordia-winter-specialPatrick’s Professional Website - www.patrickbuermeyerart.comSOCIAL MEDIA:Instagram - @PatrickBuerArtTwitter - @Polywags86

This week, I’m talking with Sam Johnson, a UK based comic book writer and creator. Sam’s the creator of Geek Girl, where popular girl Ruby finds a pair of high-tech glasses which grant her super powers, but also super kutziness!Enjoy!Geek Girl is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through December 18th! Go support it HERE!SHOW NOTES:Geek Girl’s Kickstarter Page - www.geekgirlcomics.comSOCIAL MEDIA:Facebook - @geekgirlcomicTwitter - @GKickstarterInstagram - @SamJohnsonComics

Imagine a world where fictional characters are invading our real world, and there’s only two librarians who can stop it…and save the world. That’s the concept behind the latest project of today’s guest.Will Allred is a comic book writer and creator, whose previous credits include Diary of Night, a vampire story, and he’s contributed multiple stories to the anthology series Always Punch Nazis. We talk about his books and process, how he got started in comics, and his seemingly never-ending search to find knowledge and also find the good in everything.Crossover Division is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through 12/11/20. Go support it HERE!LINKS:Crossover Division’s Kickstarter - www.crossoverdivision.com/ksCrossover Division’s Website - www.crossoverdivision.comWill Allred’s Professional Website - www.willallred.comDiary of Night’s Website (also written by Will) - www.diaryofnight.comSOCIAL MEDIA:Facebook - @wallredTwitter - @wallred

Today’s guest is a real renaissance man. He’s a musician, filmmaker, comic book creator - and he even was the Aflec Duck on social media! This week, I’m talking with comic book writer and creator George O’Connor. We’re talking about his crazy career spanning music, film, and comics, how he gathers his creative teams to elevate the entire project, and how even Neil Gaiman suffers from imposters’ syndrome!George’s latest work, Charlie’s Spot, follows a homeless veteran who goes on an unusual adventure to reclaim his busking spot. It’s a little quirky, a little magic, but all heart!Charlie’s Spot is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through 11/30/20. Go support it HERE!Enjoy!SHOW NOTES:Homeless Comics’ Website - www.homelesscomics.comGeorge’s Personal/Professional Website - www.makingstuffwithgeorge.comSOCIAL MEDIA:Twitter - @LazyHordeFacebook - @HomelessComics

In this episode, Under the Mask Podcast is heading Down Under, and talking with an award-winning comic writer and creator, and the director of Australian-based publisher Comics2Movies. Shaun Keenan’s book, XCT, recently won “Best Comic” at the AFIN International Film Festival.He’s launching a brand new book, Talos of Sparta, and we’re talking about the trials and tribulations of balancing a writing career while also starting up a publishing house.My only regret is Shaun never once said “Crickey” in the entire episode…Talos of Sparta is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through 11/29/20. You can support it HERE!Enjoy!SHOW NOTES:Talos of Sparta Kickstarter Campaign - www.kickstarter.com/projects/2067957354/talos-of-spartaComics 2 Movies Website - www.comics2movies.com.auSOCIAL MEDIA:Facebook - @Comics2MoviesTwitter - @comics_2_moviesInstagram - @comics2movies

In this episode, I’m talking with Tart writer and creator Kevin Joseph. Kevin has published and crowdfunded a dozen issues of Tart, which is a huge accomplishment for an independent comic.We talk about how he did it, and why your fans and followers are always the most important piece of the puzzle!Enjoy!Tart is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through 11/27/20. Go support it HERE!SHOW NOTES:Tart #1 - 12 Kickstarter - www.kickstarter.com/projects/tartcomic/tart-1-12-demons-devils-and-demagoguesSOCIAL MEDIA:Twitter - @KevinJosephCMXFacebook - @tartofficialInstagram - @KevinJosephCMX

Wailing Week’s finale is with Under the Mask’s interview with Tyler James, host of the ComixLaunch podcast and publisher for ComixTribe. Tyler has been publishing comics for over a decade, so he’s a treasure trove of knowledge and information.Join us as we talk about the story behind ComixTribe’s his latest book, Wailing Blade.Wailing Blade, Volume 1 is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER thru 11/20/20. Go support it HERE!SHOW NOTES:The ComixLaunch Podcast - www.comixlaunch.com OR where ever you listen to your podcasts (seriously, one of the best podcasts out there. Check it out!)Wailing Blade’s Kickstarter Page - www.comixtribe.com/wailingbladeSign up for ComixLaunch’s FREE Kickstarter Class - www.comixlaunch.com/classJoin the ComixLaunchers Facebook Group - www.comixlaunch.com/groupSOCIAL MEDIATwitter - @ComixTribeInstagram - @ComixTribe

Wailing Week begins with Under the Mask’s interview with Rich Douek, the writer of Gutter Magic, Road of Bones, Sea of Sorrows, and of course, Wailing Blade.Wailing Blade, Volume 1 is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER thru 11/20/20. Go support it HERE!SHOW NOTES:Wailing Blade’s Kickstarter Page - www.comixtribe.com/wailingbladeSign up for Rich’s Newsletter HERE!Rich’s Professional Website - www.rdouek.comSOCIAL MEDIATwitter - @rdouekInstagram - @rdouek

In this episode of Under the Mask, I talk with acclaimed writer Frank Gogol, writer of Grief, Dead End Kids, and No Heroine. Frank’s first work was nominated for a Ringo award, and his next works won him Best Writer and Best New Series at the Independent Creator Awards. We talk about how’s built up his career as a writer, his relationship with Source Point Press, and his latest book coming out next year!Dead End Kids: The Suburban Job is coming to your local comic book shop on January 27th, 2021. Don’t get left behind; Source Point Press books are notorious for selling out! Be sure to pre-order DEK, and to make it extra easy for your shop, bring them the preview code NOV201523 to make their job extra easy!SHOW NOTES:Sign up to Frank’s Newsletter “Caption Boxes” HEREFrank Gogol’s Professional Website - www.frankgogol.comSOCIAL MEDIA:Facebook - @frankgogolTwitter - @frankgogolInstagram - @frankgogol

This November, Under the Mask is kicking it up a notch by offering not one, but TWO interviews the first two weeks of the month. There’s just that many creators reaching out to me to be on the show! Thank you for you support!This episode, I’m talking with Lawrence James King, the owner and CEO of Constant Hustle Comics, and the writer and creator of the comics Avery the Amazing and The Last Line.Constant Hustle has teamed up with Wingless Comics and Concept Moon Studios to create an epic indie crossover unlike any you’ve ever seen. NIGHTFALL follows the three company’s biggest hitters as they face a secret order with plans to dominate the world…and threaten existence itself!SHOW NOTES:The Multi-Company Crossover, Nightfall, Part 1 is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through 11/14/20. Go support it HERE!Constant Hustle Comics’ Website - www.constanthustlecomics.comSOCIAL MEDIAFacebook - @ConstantHustleComicsTwitter - @CHustleComicsInstagram - @C.H.Comics

HAPPY HALLOWEEN! This week, I’m talking with up-and-coming comic creator Chuck Pineau. He’s the writer and editor of the audio drama, Essence House, and his latest project, an action-adventure comedy comic called Belial, is live on Kickstarter.Chuck’s no stranger to networking. After his first work failed to launch successfully, he realized he needed to build a name for himself. He’s since signed on to edit countless independent comics, and is a mainstay on videos, podcasts, and livestreams on social media and beyond! We talk about his process writing, what an editor brings the the table, the importance of networking and actually getting yourself out there, and so much more!Belial is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER now through 11/11/20. Go support it HERE!Enjoy!SHOW NOTES & LINKS:Belial #1 - 2 on Kickstarter - www.kickstarter.com/projects/1551820313/belial-2-make-mine-a-doubleEssence House Audio Drama Website - www.essencehousestory.comCheck out Chuck’s YouTube Channel - Chuck’s Raw ReviewsBonfire Press’ Professional Facebook - www.facebook.com/BonfirePress/SOCIAL MEDIAFacebook - @chuckpineauTwitter - @chuckypinInstagram - @chuckpineau

Since we’re officially entering spooky season with Halloween later this week, I figured I’d produce a BONUS HALLOWEEN EPISODE, featuring Bayron Calderon and Chris McAulie of 123GO! Publications. This was an interesting interview, as Bayron is relatively new to comics, and Chris has worked for several publishers as a colorist, most notably 2000AD (Judge Dredd).Both Bayron and Chris contributed stories to 123GO’s Halloween anthology book, 13th Moon. The book looks like a lot of fun, and I had a great time talking with these two creators. On a side note: this is another Under the Mask first - my first time interviewing two creators at the same time!Enjoy!13th Moon is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER now through November 5th. Go support it HERE!SHOW NOTES:13th Moon on Kickstarter - www.kickstarter.com/projects/13thmoon/13th-moon-halloween-anthologySOCIAL MEDIABayron Calderon’s Instagram - @BayronIllustrations*Personal Note - This episode had some technical difficulties when recording the interview. The first video conferencing software crashed, and we had to change. If you hear some changing audio quality, or things sound a bit more sliced together than normal, you aren’t hearing things! Thanks for listening!

This week, I’m speaking with Nathan Lueth, co-creator and artist of Impure Blood, a webcomic fantasy series turned printed book. An enslaved gladiator carries the blood of an ancient and mystical race. With his allies, they race to track down an artifact that may hold the key to Roan’s ancestry, battling an army of golems along the way!Nathan has been drawing Impure Blood since 2009, and it’s become quite the webcomic sensation. We talk about his process, how he interacts with his writing collaborators, and tips and tricks he’s picked up along his own journey.Enjoy!Impure Blood, Volume 2 is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through 11/11/20. Go support it HERE!SHOW NOTES AND LINKS:Impure Blood’s Kickstarter Page - www.bit.ly/impureblood_v2Read Impure Blood in it’s original webcomic form - www.impurebloodwebcomic.comNathan’s Professional Website - www.nathanluethillustration.comSOCIAL MEDIAFacebook - @nathanluethillustrationTwitter - @nathanluethInstagram - @nathanluethillustration

I’m very lucky that, by producing this podcast, I’m able to talk to many professional (and semi-professional) creators. But today we have a special opportunity to talk to a creator who is on the cusp of his very first launch!Our guest this week is Mike McCarthy, founder of Wingman Magazine and writer and creator of DINO-THRASHERS. Dino-Thrashers features good and evil anthropomorphic dinosaurs fighting for the fate of the world, and humanity is caught in the crossfire!We’re talking with Mike about how it feels to launch his very first comic, how he hooked up with his art team, and how his first work was picked up to be published through Ageless Comics Publishing!Enjoy!Dino-Thrashers is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER now through 10/31/20. Go check it out HERE!SHOW NOTES & MORE INFOMike’s also the founder of Wingman Magazine. Check it out belowWingman Magazine - www.wingmanmagazine.comSOCIAL MEDIADino-Thrashers on Twitter - @DinoThrashersDino-Thrashers on Instagram - @DinoThrashers_ComicMike’s Personal Instagram - @MJMPhotographsNH

It sounds cliché, but this episode’s guest truly needs no introduction. Writer and artist has worked in comics professionally for over 30 years, drawing for big name properties like Superman and Wonder Woman for DC Comics, and the Alien and Predator franchise comics for Dark Horse. But Ron is probably most well known for his creator-owned comic sci-fi adventure that debuted with Dark Horse, TREKKER.Trekker stars kick-ass bounty hunter Mercy St. Clair on her galaxy-hopping adventures. And she’s back in her latest chapter in the Trekker saga: Trekker: Hunter’s Moon.Trekker: Hunter’s Moon in LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through 10/29/20. Go check it out HERE!Enjoy!—You can also check out the official Trekker website - www.trekkercomic.comSOCIAL MEDIATwitter - @Ron_RandallInstagram - @RandallShots

Can a humble comic book creator make the ultimate heel-face turn?!This week, we’re talking wrestling and comic books with Joe McFee, owner and founder of Xigency Studios, which produces several comic series including Primetime Saturday Night and AWF. Xigency’s latest work is a 10th Anniversary Edition of their very first comic published, Amazonia #1.Amazonia #1 is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through 10/17/20. Be sure to check it out HERE!Thanks for listening!LINKS & SHOW NOTES:Amazonia #1 Kickstarter - www.kickstarter.com/projects/293753405/amazonia-1-10th-anniversary-editionXigency Studios Website - www.xigencystudiosonlinestore.comYouTube Channel “From the Desk of a Small Publisher” - www.youtube.com/user/silvboltSOCIAL MEDIA:Xigency Studios on Facebook - @XigencyStudiosDeviantArt - @silverbolt14Instagram - @silvbolt

This is a conversation with Russell Nohelty that was left on the cutting room floor. The conversation deals with some serious topics, but both of us agree it's an important conversation to have.

This week, I’m speaking with USA Today Best Selling Author Russell Nohelty, owner of Wannabe Press and writer/author of over a dozen novels, and even more comic books. Since starting Wannabe Press, Russell has raised cumulatively over $200,000 on Kickstarter, and he really is a creator that I look up to. We find out how he did it, how he stays so prolific, and his process when it comes to writing!Russell’s latest work, Ichabod Jones: Monster Hunter is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER now through October 1st, 2020. Go check it out HERE!Enjoy!SHOW NOTES AND CONTACT INFO:Russell Nohelty’s Website - www.russellnohelty.comWannabe Press Website - www.wannabepress.comCheck out Ichabod Jones: Monster Hunter at www.russellnohelty.com/ichabodvolume2SOCIAL MEDIA:Facebook - @russellnoheltyTwitter - @russellnoheltyInstagram - @russellnohelty

This week, I’m speaking with Brant Fowler, co-publisher of Last Ember Press. He’s also the writer of the comic books The Last Ember and co-writer of Celestial Falcon, live now on Kickstarter. He’s also a graphic designer as well as prolific letterer, having worked jobs for Image Comics, Action Lab, and more. Truly, Brant is a guy who knows the comic process inside and out, and he’s got a lot to teach us!Thanks for listening!Brant’s latest work, CELESTIAL FALCON, is LIVE ON KICKSTARTER through 9/21/20. Be sure to check it out HERE.Brant’s Publishing Website - lastemberpress.comSOCIAL MEDIAFacebook - @LastEmberPressTwitter - @LastEmberPressInstagram - @LastEmberPress

This week features a very special episode - we bring on an artificial intelligence to interview Under the Mask Podcast host and Kinetic writer Bill Coulombe. We talk about how he got started out writing, and what keeps him going, even when the times seem rough!Bill’s most recent work is as the the writer on KINETIC:IDENTITITES #1, and it’s available for preorder at our Kickstarter, or just visit www.kineticomic.com now through 9/12/20.Thanks for listening, and checking out our Kickstarter campaign!SOCIAL MEDIAFacebook - @ycomics.netTwitter - @seattle_ycomicsInstagram - @ycomics.seattleWebsite - www.ycomics.net

This week, professional comic book artist Luis Rivera helps break down what it takes to draw comic books professionally.

Our special episodes featuring interview with members of the Kinetic teams continues, as I sit down and talk with professional cover artist Jason Metcalf. Jason has don’t work for IDW, Zenescope, Valiant, and even a variant cover for DC Comics, and we talk to him about how he made the leap from construction to professional artwork, and what it takes to maintain that artistic career.Jason recently made a Variant Cover for KINETIC:IDENTITITES #1, and it’s available for preorder at our Kickstarter, or just visit www.kineticomic.com now through 9/12/20.Thanks for listening, and checking out our Kickstarter campaign!Jason’s Website can be found HERESOCIAL MEDIAFacebook - @jason.metcalf.925JASON STREAMS ON FACEBOOK WITH THE ARTIST ALLEY SHOPPING NETWORK (AASN), AND IS AVAILABLE FOR COMMISSIONS, EVERY MONDAY 1PM - 3PM EST (10 AM - NOON PST):AASP Facebook Page - @AASNInstagram - @metcalfjason

For the next few weeks, we’re trying something a little different here at Under the Mask. Bill has hand-selected a few of his past and current collaborators to talk about their process when working on Kinetic and other projects.This week, we’re speaking with Omi Remalante. Omi is a professional comic book colorist with over a decade in the industry, having worked with such companies as Zenescope, Dynamite, Aspen Comics, Image Comics, and BOOM! Studios. We ask him how he did it, and how he continues to balance his impressive workload.KINETIC: IDENTITIES #1 IS LIVE ON KICKSTARTER THROUGH 9/12/20. Check it out HEREwww.kineticcomic.comFind Omi Remalante’s YouTube ChannelFacebook: @omi.remalanteInstagram: @omi0318

This week, I’m speaking with Phoebe A. Xavier, the owner of 123GO! Publications. She’s also the writer and creator of the comics Sidereal Apogee, Gunmetal Black Ops, and Trouble. Though 123GO! has only been around a few short years, they already have an extensive catalog, and plans for future releases.All books by 123GO! are available on IndyPlanet! Check them out HERE!SOCIAL MEDIAFacebook - facebook.com/123gopublications/Instagram - @123gopublicationsTwitter - @aurora_phlox

This week, I’m speaking with my good friend and fellow comic creator, Travis Gibb. Travis is the writer and creator of Broke Down and Four Dead Bodies, as well as an extensive catalogue of shorter stories he’s had published through numerous anthologies. Travis’ latest work, VOODOO NATIONS, is Live on Kickstarter through 8/13/20. We talk about Voodoo Nations, Broke Down, and discuss how his anthology pitches did more than just expand his portfolio.Had a lot of fun talking with Travis - be sure to check him out at the links below. As always, thanks for listening!VOODOO NATIONS is live on Kickstarter through 8/13/20. Check it out HERE!Voodoo Nations’ Website: www.voodoonations.comBroke Down and Four Dead Bodies Website: www.brokedownandfourdeadbodies.comSOCIAL MEDIATwitter: @JesterLouInstagram: @JesterLou

This week, I’m talking with Nick Macari. Nick is a freelance story consultant, developmental editor, narrative designer, and writer - and he’s been doing this for over 20 years. As you’d expect, Nick has a TON of experience helping others make the best books they possibly can. I had the chance to pick his brain for about an hour, and this episode is full of practical tips and tricks to up your creative game.Nick’s most recent work, PEERLESS, is a dark fantasy martial arts comic packed to the brim with all-out action. It’s also live on Kickstarter through 8/10/2020.Go show some support for Peerless HERE: www.peerlesskungfucomic.comNick’s Website - www.nickmacari.comWant to Level Up Your Storytelling?! Check out his professional workshop for writing and story development: www.storytoscript.com

NOTE: The audio had some volume level issues during recording the interview. I tried my hardest to correct them, but despite my valiant efforts, you may hear a bit of distortion. Sorry! - Bill

This week, I’m talking with Daniel Kalban, writer and creator of AMERICAN DREAMS. Daniel published his first professional work through Short Fuse Media, and we’re going to talk about it, along with his inspiration of setting the series in the Gilded Age of the early 20th Century.American Dreams #1 - 3 is LIVE on Kickstarter HERE: www.bit.ly/AmericanDreamsKSSOCIAL MEDIAAmerican Dreams’ Facebook Fan Page - @AmericanDreamsComicTwitter - @DanielKalban

This week, I talk with Damian Wampler, writer and creator of such graphic novels as Sevara and Monitor, and the upcoming projects Monsterly and The Rum-Running Queen. We talk about how he’s hooked up with such publishers as Broken Icon Comics and one of the UK’s leading publishers of graphic novels, Markosia.Monitor is available now, and we have a special treat for you! When you buy Monitor at www.brokeniconcomics/monitor - use the code “FBOMB” at checkout for some extra savingsRead Monsterly for FREE on Webtoons - www.webtoons.com/en/challenge/monsterly/list?title_no=440718Damian’s Professional Website - www.damianwampler.comSOCIAL MEDIAFacebook - www.facebook.com/sevarawillrise/YouTube - www.youtube.com/user/damianwampler

This week we speak with Ruben Romero, writer and creator of The Agency. After spending some time on the convention scene, The Agency was picked up to be distributed nationwide by the comic juggernaut Diamond Distribution.He’s now taking everything back to basics by launching The Agency #6 on Kickstarter, which just fully funded!His journey is pretty incredible, and I’m sure you’ll love hearing about it!The Agency #6 is LIVE on Kickstarter through 6/27/20 - Check it out HEREOr check out THE AGENCY at his website: www.theagencycomicbook.com/SOCIAL MEDIAInstagram - @RandomJedi_SoloFacebook - @RubenWriterTwitter - @thinkalikepro

This week we speak with writer and creator of NEOTHERIC, described as "an R-rated cartoon from the 80s." Inspired by such works as Dinosaurcers and Treasure Island, Michael self-funded the first volume of his book, and we talk about the rollercoaster it has been!

This week, we talk with visual effects aftist Farhan Qureshi, who has worked on several Hollywood blockbusters such as Alien vs. Predator, Batman Begins, and Harry Potter. His latest project, a comic book named Digitopia, tackles fake news head on through a dystopian lens. Digitopia is live on Kickstarter through June 28, 2020.

In this episode, we talk with Will O'Shire, an urban fantasy author with several novels in his Fae Awakening Universe. After being diagnosed with depression, Will found a creative outlet to help him cope.

Our guest this week is Melissa J. Massey, the creator of the webcomics BLACK BALL and THE ALCHEMIST OF AURELIA. Melissa’s first Kickstarter didn’t raise the funds needed, but she didn’t let that slow her down.Melissa found lessons in failure, and used them to reevaluate and retool her plan. Her relaunched Kickstarter for The Alchemist of Aurelia is already fully funded in her first few days of launch! How did she do it? Find out here!Happy Listening!Check out her Kickstarter HERE: www.alchemistcomic.melissajmassey.com (Through June 11, 2020)Check out Black Ball HERE: www.welcometoblackball.com (New pages every Thursday!)Or at her personal website: www.melissajmassey.comSOCIAL MEDIAInstagram - @ByzantineTifosiTwitter - @MelissaJMasseyFacebook - @VaticanAssassinsComic

Under the Mask talks with Dan Ekis, celebrated YouTube content creator and writer and artist of the webcomics Soul of the World and Odyssey, Inc.

Today we speak with Clay Adams, accomplished actor, screenwriter, and co-founder of Fried Comics. His Kickstarter for his new book Dead Skins raised it’s funding goal in less than 12 hours. We learn the secrets behind his success, as well as talk about his writing process and how to foster a creative team.CHECK OUT HIS KICKSTARTER HERE - www.friedcomics.com/kickstarter/dsCheck out Fried Comics Here - www.friedcomics.comSOCIAL MEDIA:Twitter - @ClaysEvilTwin

We talk with Kenny Aitken, whose crazy idea for an anthropomorphic cybernetic samurai owl has turned into a comic book, now live on Kickstarter!

We talk with Rob Multari, writer of the coming-of-age werewolf story, Night Wolf.

This week, we talk with Moana McAdams, writer of Fishing Day with Papa Ray, and creator of Moana's Masks

This week, we talk with Kris Jerome, writer and founder of Dark Tidings Press.We talk about his new graphic novel, TARNISHED, and the joys and challenges of running your own small press.Please note: We had some technical difficulties recording the audio. It doesn’t pop up much, but when you hear the audio distort, just know there was nothing we could do about it!Check out Kris’ work HERE:ON AMAZON - www.amazon.com/s?k=kristopher+jeromeON FACEBOOK - www.facebook.com/darktidingspress/Thanks for listening!

Under the Mask Podcast interviews Ben Lacy. writer, artist, and creator of Shark of War. It’s Jaws meets Robocop…with about 95% more shark! You’ll want to sink your teeth into this interview!Find Ben Lacy online:Facebook.com/SharkofWarTwitter.com/blacy1Instagram.com/benlacy1And get the book HERE:sharkofwar.bitingcomics.com