Webcomics Reviews And Interviews

The big American comics are having problems and need some advice to get back on their feet. By looking at their distribution models, how they fail to use cross-platform promotion, and the businesses they ignore to their disadvantage, how they could be doing better is considered. Why spinner racks won't help is discussed as well as why some adopting some aspects of the manga business model would work while other aspects wouldn't. The success of indy comics is looked at and why not all of their tactics would work for the bigger companies.

It's easy to figure out who the villain is, but not everyone who opposes the heroes are villainous; some of them are just doing their job. We look at those whose very nature puts them in conflict with the heroes, be it cops, street gangs, or even activists.

The biggest problem for most self-publishers is where to actually publish their books. We look at the differences between print on demand, hybrid publishing, offset printing, vanity printing, and traditional printing. We also look briefly at the services you need to make your book look great and how to sell it.

I've been gone from podcasting and blogging due to colon cancer, and I'm coming back. Also, the state of the empire is discussed.The Zazzle Store: https://www.zazzle.com/store/jamaisjThe Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/creator-home

This episode is all about how to create your business from the beginning: It includes the kind of paperwork to look for, how to create business and marketing plans, and how to get people to your site. We also look at SEO and merchandise. In short, this podcast is for those serious about what they do.

Interview with the couple known as Metaphrog (John Chalmers and Sandra Marrs). We look at how they create some of the best comics together, why they use different media (from acrylics to digital), and how their personal histories link up to the history of comics in general. Their SIte; http://metaphrog.com/

We discuss how to grow your business with Daniel Vivarelli, and how you can grow it so that it helps not only you but also the environment. We discuss his history, his business theory, and what exactly "regenerative entrepreneurship" means for you. His sites: https://danielvivarelli.com/ and https://starloop.com/

Interview with Brandon Shapiro and Matt Miller about their musical podcast "Relying on the Benjamins". We discuss the importance of having a bible and a plan, when you should stick to your script and when to improvise. Lastly, we discuss how two people can make a great product. Their Site: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1492771359

We discuss how to create a successful business by taking small steps towards success and how "fake it until you make it" doesn't work. Also, the perfect chicken meal for dating is discussed, and we delve into voice acting (I had to; it's Spike FREAKIN' Spencer!). HIs site: https://www.spikespencer.com/

The extreme nuts and bolts of running your business are explored, such as the importance of a schedule, why you should look at numbers, how to use reviews to help your business (even bad ones), and why you should avoid rebranding.

We sit down with writer Boum, Canadian artist. She is mostly known for Boumeries, a journal webcomic, and for A Small Revolution. We discuss the fun and travails of putting out a journalistic webcomic, the scheduling issues, and how to make it work. We also look at the difference between working with a publisher and self-publishing, as well as how to move on. Her Portfolio: https://www.boumfolio.com/Shout out to her friend Cab: http://www.utowncomic.com/Toronto Comics Arts Festival: http://www2.torontocomics.com

Selling comics in the age of COVID-19 is impossible as conventions cancel and book shops are closed. We look at economic models to show how you can sell, how emotion can help you sell, why digital downloads are your friends, merch you can sell for those on a budget, how to promote using networks, and arguably the worst pep talk ever.

We sit down with prolific writer/illustrator Ryan Estrada and discuss his books "Student Ambassador", "Broken Telephone", "Banned Book Club". We look at the advantages of exploring the world, the importance of keeping in mind the differences in culture and language when writing, and ways of dealing with dialogue in your stories. http://www.ryanestrada.com/https://www.instagram.com/ryanestradadotcom/

We sit down with private investigator Michael "Ski" Jaczewski. We discuss the basics of interviewing a subject (great for writers), but also just how stringent companies guard their properties, what can happen if you get caught, and how to build a successful business. His SIte: https://toltec.net/

We sit down with writer David Doub. We discuss Dusk Comics (his company), writing in general and crossover specifically, and how to best catch the spirit of two comics in the same crossover. We also discuss his Kickstarter, Dusk vs Cheerleader Karate School (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/demonsinthedarkness/dusk-vs-cheerleader-karate-school).Please support WCRI by pledging our patreon page at https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows. There are plenty of mini-casts, additional tips and tricks, podcast transcripts, and even some unedited interviews. For a curated version of this podcast, subscribe to the Webcomics Reviews and Interviews YouTube channel. Not only is the podcast broken down into playlists to highlight different topics, but there are also additional mini-casts and quickies to help your writing and business.

We sit down with Kimberly Spencer. We discuss working from goals and the importance of failure and making mistakes when it comes to being successful. We also look at the importance of how your perception of yourself affects your success as well as the need for personal transformation. Also, some basic Amazon marketing tips are covered. Her Site: https://crownyourself.com/

We sit down with author Trent Gander. We discuss plot and character development, how to improve the quality of your stories, expanding on characters to improve your stories, and using table-top game-mastering techniques for better stories. His Site: https://gentlemansuniversityofmanliness.wordpress.com/

We talk with Jim Sweeney about his creation, the sports character Mike. We discuss how hard it is to create and market a character, how a character can fill a specific niche, and what it takes to create and market a character, as well as looking at weird ways to market your character. His Site: www.theemike.com

We sit down with Russel Nohety (http://thecompletecreative.com/) to discuss his new Kickstarter Project “Cthulhu is Hard to Spell: The Terrible Twos” (https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/russellnohelty/cthulhu-is-hard-to-spell-a-2nd-lovecraft-comic-anthology). We discuss how to run a successful Kickstarter campaign, how to keep a sequel fresh, and how to coordinate a team of writers and artists to create a comic anthology. Russel is a USA best-selling author (https://www.amazon.com/Russell-Nohelty/e/B00ACRFI5S?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_8&qid=1585534228&sr=8-8) and publisher of Wannabe Press. He has written numerous books, comics, and short stories, and has published various titles for his company. Please support WCRI by pledging our patreon page at https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows. There are plenty of mini-casts, additional tips and tricks, podcast transcripts, and even some unedited interviews. For a curated version of this podcast, subscribe to the Webcomics Reviews and Interviews YouTube channel. Not only is the podcast broken down into playlists to highlight different topics, but there are also additional mini-casts and quickies to help your writing and business.

Interview with Michael Son, Editor-in-Chief of Tapas Media (https://tapas.io/). We look at Tapas' latest releases, how it develops game and film projects based on its comic series, tips for indie creators, and how to brand new creators. Tapas is an app for comics, available from the Apple App Store and Google Play. Launched in October 2012, it boasts 2.2 million readers for its 76,000 series. Tapas provides a best-in-class reading experience for those using mobile devices and browsers. For those interested in starting a comic, Tapas is an excellent way to start. Please support WCRI by pledging our patreon page at https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows. There are plenty of mini-casts, additional tips and tricks, podcast transcripts, and even some unedited interviews. For a curated version of this podcast, subscribe to the Webcomics Reviews and Interviews YouTube channel. Not only is the podcast broken down into playlists to highlight different topics, but there are also additional mini-casts and quickies to help your writing and business.

Interview with Andrew Monroe, author of "A Leaf and Pebble" and podcaster ("Dead by Tomorrow"). We discuss how to build plots and character, some marketing, plotters versus pantsers, and general writing problems. Also, expect a lot of geeking out. https://www.andrewamonroe.com/https://www.deadxtomorrow.com

We sit down with writer/illustrator Perry Edwards and discuss his manga "Cold-Blooded", discuss who he is bringing his childhood dreams to fruition, and basically discuss what makes a good manga. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/perrys-hotter/cold-blooded-vol-1-manga-monster-battling-other-monsters/faqs

Interview with the co-founders of Macroverse, Matthew Eben and Adam Martin. We discuss the platform and how it hopes to revolutionize comics by adding a cinematic feel to your comics. We look at what the Macroverse is all about, how you can take advantage of it, and what it can mean for you. Also, why so many Kindles are discriminated against...but you should definitely check out https://macroverse.media/.

We discuss how to develop a story, how to work in elements of horror, and how to have fun writing. Basically, it's two nerds nerding out and having some fun. https://www.justincalcala.com/

Interview with crime writer Gary Phillips. We discuss just what it takes to write a great mystery, the hallmarks of different crime genres, and generally have some fun discussing the history and future of noir. https://gdphillips.com/

Basically, this is why I haven't been podcasting, my plans to catch up, and what the plans of the podcast are. Please subscribe to the Youtube channel (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVWgu5puur05skqpqgwQ36Q/about), check us out on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/wcripodcast/), and if you want to see more, definitely subscribe to the patreon (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows).

We sit down with Nicole Schaefer. All sorts of trademark issues are dealt with, ranging from the difference between trademark and copyright, the limitations of trademarks, why you want to trademark your comic and your characters, and some tips and tricks on how to do it effectively. Rhodan guest hosts. https://yellowdoglegal.com/

Interview with writer Yasmin Vorajee (https://www.yasminvorajee.com/). We discuss time management, how to use a schedule to run your comic so much easier, and have fun while doing it. We also talk about working around our individual distractions and even compare birds and kids. Yasmin is a published writer, and teaches people how to budget their time. If you would like to talk to her about helping you budget your time and better organize your business, please check out her blog. Please support WCRI by pledging our patreon page at https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows. There are plenty of mini-casts, additional tips and tricks, podcast transcripts, and even some unedited interviews. For a curated version of this podcast, subscribe to the Webcomics Reviews and Interviews YouTube channel. Not only is the podcast broken down into playlists to highlight different topics, but there are also additional mini-casts and quickies to help your writing and business.

We sit down with writer Lorna Rose-Hahn to discuss poetry basics, how to adapt your schedule to your kids, and the Write on the River non-profit writing organization. Also, a quick lesson on perspective involving seven blind men and an elephant. Write on The River: http://writeontheriver.org/boardLorna's Blog: https://lornarose.com/

Everyone has to start somewhere, and that means making the same mistakes everyone else does. Here's why we make those mistakes, what the big ones are, and how to correct them. Yes, we talk about sex, violence, politics, and authority issues; lots of ground is covered so there's something for everyone.

Interview with Ann Bernard, of 365firstschallenge.com. We discuss how to grow creativity, how to get unblocked when you get blocked, and how to have some fun doing art. We also discuss her app (365firsts) and how it can help you become a better artist.

The basic rules if you're interested in being interviewed by me.....

Adding a mythos to your comic adds a lot of great things that you can play with and enhance your theme. We look at how to build a mythology for your world, from gods to monsters, and look at how modern celebrities are the deities of the modern world. We also look at adding local legends to your stories for a little extra world-building.

We look at the importance of nudity when it comes to having fun with your characters, from character development to relating to your readers. We look at how stripping away all of the aritifice from your characters can leave them more vulnerable, and how that works in your favor. Your characters are at their finest when there is nothing else to consider and we expose how that works in your favor!Please support WCRI by pledging at our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows). We are also available on Facebook and Youtube!

We review the furry Supercell (https://www.supercellcomic.com (4/5/5/4.7)), the speculative Synthetic Life (http://www.slwebcomic.com/ (3/3/4/3.3)), and the cyberpunk Android Blues (https://www.theduckwebcomics.com/Android_Blues/ (4/4/3/3.7)).Please support WCRI by pledging at our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows).

Today's interview is with Kathe Todd, fantasy author and owner of Rip Off Press. We discuss the basic history of comix, how the Big Boys affected the Little Boys, and how developments in both the real world and comics world affected the indy comics scene. We also look at a way to get around the copyright issue when it comes to fanfiction as well as how to develop your own worlds. Please support WCRI by pledging at our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows).

Character designs can be hard. We look at how different materials can hep define characters, as well as add to plot elements such as themes as foreshadowing. We also look at how tight a character's clothes defines their confidence, and why naked characters are usually honorable ones. Throw in a quick look at their jewelry and we show how what you wear is important. Please support WCRI by pledging at our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows).

Critics don't always get it right. We look at why there's a difference between what critics, artists, and everyone else are looking for in a particular. I also look at why critics should avoid genres they don't like, shouldn't charge for reviews, and shouldn't go in with a bias. There's also a swipe at some director and a website of frozen women. Please support WCRI by pledging at our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows).

Comic artists tend to over-use the same basic medium and close shots. We look at expanding that a little bit by looking at how camera shots can be used in comics as well as some advanced concepts. ranging from insert shots to zoom-in/zoom-out transitions. We even look at narration and flashbacks. Hopefully, this will help you look for other ways to have fun with your art. Please support WCRI by pledging at our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows).

Interview with Arlen Schumer, pop historian and illustrator. We discuss the Twilight Zone's effect on pop culture, Scorsese issues with superhero movies, and generally have fun with a number of side topics.An unedited version is available at the Patreon page. Please support WCRI by pledging at our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows).

One of the problems a lot of comics have is limited consistency: They just aren't drawn in the same manner every time. That is, vehicles, bases, even uniforms are drawn different each time. As this creates readership issues, it's something that needs to be worked on. As such, we look at the importance of various details, as well as the basics on how to set up a visual bible, in hopes of maintaining readers and better art.The How To Create A Comic Workbook (https://www.amazon.com/dp/1092540938)Please support WCRI by pledging at our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows).

We discuss his upcoming comic Jarhead, a supernatural/military comic. Besides his comic, the role of black writers, some of his interview issues, and why we need more black representation in comics and movies is discussed. Note: A longer, more explicit version is available on Patreon. Please support WCRI by pledging at our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows).

It's Artists Month once again! Today we are stepping back and looking at the four traditional jobs artists have and how a comic artist can use them to do better comic art. This means looking at the penciller (he who does the roughs), the inker (he who takes it the finals), the colorist (master of tones of gray and color), and the letterer (ninja of the comic world), and how they communicate. We also look at the visual bible. Please support WCRI by pledging at our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows).

Interview with Juan Rosario of Juan Love Apparel (https://juanloveapparel.com/). We discuss the importance of having a story, why you need to consider constantly be updating your inventory, and the advantages of updating your goods, as well as some suggestions on how to handle your merch. Please support WCRI by pledging at our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows).

Diversity in comics is a touchy subject. On one hand, your comic can only benefit from having a wide range of characters but on the other you want to avoid token characters. We look at the problems with having diversity and how to solve those problems for better comics. Please support WCRI by pledging at our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows).

Interview with Chris Hazelton of Misfile (http://www.misfile.com/) and 6 Gun Mage (https://www.6gunmage.com/). We discuss what it takes to work at such a long-running series, concluding it, and then starting over. We also discuss how to make two comics look different and the problems with running two such different comics. Please support WCRI by pledging at our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows).

Where we discuss CGI comics, how important passion is when it comes to art, and the cost of a good comic. Bloodbound can be found at https://bloodboundcomic.com.Please support WCRI by pledging at our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows).

The Law of Nature is that every animal has a niche; when you look at political structures you note that every person fills a niche. We're exploring how people fit into the web of politics, and look at static versus dynamic structures, how political structures change depending on how well established they are, and even look at just how scary a person outside the chain of command can be. We're looking at politics and some of the stuff that you need to consider if you want some added depth.Please support WCRI by pledging at our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows).

In the episode, the following webcomics are reviewed: Lonely Vincent Bellingham (4/5/4/4-1/3, http://www.lonelyvincent.com), Misfile (4/3/4/3-2/3, http://www.misfile.com/), and The Adventures of Echo Callaway (4/5/3/4, https://echocallaway.tumblr.com/). [The numbers are grades for Writing/Art/Design/Total respectively.]If you are interested in having your webcomic reviewed, please drop me a link at jamaisj@gmail.com.Please support WCRI by pledging at our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows).

Your supporting characters can fill so many different roles: They can help define your characters and setting, add depth to your characters, and expand their abilities. We look at why sidekicks are hated and the difference between sidekicks and minions. We look at the different roles friends and families play in a story, and the differences between pets and familiars. We also show how hunters add to tension and even be allies. In short, we look at how the little people fill big shoes.Please support WCRI by pledging at our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows).

Writers strangely ignore all of the additional symbolism a solid fighting style can give their characters. We look briefly at the symbolism inherent to wearing armor, wielding weapons, and even how a character fights, and how looking at and specifying those can be used to create a much more solid character. Please support WCRI by pledging at our Patreon page (https://www.patreon.com/twosparrows).