Podcasts about artist alley

What belongs at the beginning of your book? Brad and Dave discuss whether an anti-AI statement offers creators any meaningful protection, break down the information that belongs on a copyright page, and explore the many ways cartoonists can approach the first page of a story or chapter. The best opening isn't determined by a universal rule—it should establish the right expectations, reflect the story you're telling, and give readers a reason to keep going. Topics include: Skunk Watch 2026 Do anti-AI statements offer creators legal protection? Why a standard copyright notice may already cover AI training The difference between creating, declaring, and registering a copyright What information belongs on a copyright page Copyright and trademark ownership When to use ™ and when to use ® Print location, printing numbers, and edition information ISBNs and Library of Congress numbers Combining copyright, title, credit, and dedication pages Should a comic begin with a splash page? Does the main character need to appear on page one? Using the opening page to establish tone and make a promise to the reader Why different stories require different kinds of openings Brad's two-page system for beginning a new Evil Inc chapter Creating separate covers for SFW and NSFW editions Using chapter openers as archive markers, promotional art, and production buffers Dave's approach to prologues, chapter openings, and world-building vignettes The difference between the first page and the first chapter ComicLab LIVE at the National Cartoonists Society Reuben Awards You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Cartoonist and author Dylan Meconis joins Dave Kellett to discuss marketing middle-grade webcomics, working with fans who offer to translate your work, and finding the right balance between control and accessibility. They also share practical advice for cartoonists creating an autobiographical avatar — including how simplification, posture, clothing, line quality, and tone can make a character feel unmistakably like you. Topics include: Marketing and monetizing middle-grade webcomics Reaching young readers through parents, newsletters, libraries, and local events Using print editions, zines, and snail-mail clubs to complement online comics Deciding whether to permit fan translations Maintaining quality control with beta readers and creator-hosted translations Balancing copyright concerns with the desire to reach new audiences Designing a cartoon version of yourself for memoir and autobiographical comics You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Send us Fan MailSomething felt off at Florida SuperCon 2026 and I wanted to say it out loud, carefully and honestly. I'm Anthony, flying solo for this mini episode while Dakota and Jenn take time to welcome their new son, and I'm using this buffer week to catch you up and then dig into my press-pass weekend at the biggest comic convention in South Florida.SuperCon still has a place in my heart. I've gone for years, and that's exactly why the small changes hit so hard. Even with a big guest list on paper, including names like Hayden Christensen, Rosario Dawson, and Charlie Cox, the experience didn't always translate on the show floor. I talk about what it's like when headliners feel hidden, when the panel schedule feels lighter than expected, and when the convention energy doesn't match what you'd expect from a ReedPop event. If you care about fan conventions, Comic Con culture, and what makes an event feel alive, this is a real-world case study.We also get into the practical stuff that determines whether a weekend feels worth it: vendor variety, Artist Alley growth, booth costs that may be pricing creators out, and why the gaming area and space layout choices matter more than people think. I share what worked, what didn't, and what I hope changes before Florida SuperCon 2027, especially for a region that doesn't have many major convention options.If you've ever left a convention feeling both grateful and frustrated, you'll relate. Subscribe for more Project Geekology, share this with your con-going friends, and leave us a five-star review if you want us to keep improving and keep showing up.Twitter handles:Project Geekology: https://twitter.com/pgeekologyAnthony's Twitter: https://twitter.com/odysseyswowDakota's Twitter: https://twitter.com/geekritique_dakInstagram:https://instagram.com/projectgeekology?igshid=1v0sits7ipq9yYouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@projectgeekologyGeekritique (Dakota):https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBwciIqOoHwIx_uXtYTSEbASupport the show

This week, Brad and Dave talk about the best business model for longform webcomics — and why putting your comic online for free is still the strongest way to build a sustainable career. Also: Kickstarter's late-pledge and pledge-manager tools, the difference between market research and mirror research, and how to keep going when your first posts get nothing but crickets. ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW... Dave's backyard skunk problem may or may not require Super Soakers What's the best business model for longform webcomics? Why fear of theft can stop creators from building an audience Why free-to-read comics remain the best foundation for a comics business “First comes the crowd, then comes the funding” Why readers who enjoy your work online are often first in line to buy the book How delayed access and early-access posts fit into a Patreon strategy Why exclusive side stories can work better than paywalling your main archive Avoiding physical rewards on Patreon and Substack Dave will be at San Diego Comic-Con booth 1228 with free ComicLab pins (use the super-easy mnemonic: 1BAT)  Kickstarter late pledges and Pledge Manager are bringing in real money Why charging shipping closer to fulfillment can be safer Market research vs. mirror research How to estimate Kickstarter shipping more accurately What to do when you start posting online and get “crickets” Why seven posts is not enough time to expect traction Reframing early work as building an archive for future fans Social-media advice for giving readers a reason to engage Why success in comics is a marathon, not a sprint You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Dave Kellett returns from his first-ever college reunion with a full heart — and a renewed appreciation for old friends, running jokes, and the occasional listener washing dishes through the cold open. From there, Brad and Dave dig into one of the trickiest parts of writing comics: how much work should the reader have to do to “get” the punchline? Using Brad's motorcycle-jump-over-a-ravine metaphor, they discuss why wider joke “canyons” can create bigger laughs, why shorter jumps can feel merely “technically funny,” and why the best cartoonists learn how to build strong launching ramps while understanding that every reader brings a different landing ramp. Also in this episode: How to show music in a silent medium, why semi-realistic comics should still embrace comics iconography, a quick San Diego Comic-Con update, Bluesky's expanded image carousel, and why obsessing over analytics can become a form of creative procrastination. Topics covered in this episode include: Writing punchlines that require inference from the reader Brad's “motorcycle jumping a ravine” metaphor for humor Why wider joke gaps can produce bigger laughs The difference between “funny” and “technically funny” Why some jokes land for one reader and miss for another How audience literacy, life experience, and context affect comedy Why “it took me a second” can be a feature, not a bug The danger of making every joke too obvious Why memorable comics often take bigger comedic swings Why being someone's “top three cartoonist” matters more than broad mild approval The difference between newspaper-era comics and webcomics-era audience building Dave's San Diego Comic-Con booth update The free ComicLab pin for listeners at Booth 1228 Bluesky expanding post image limits from 4 images to 10 How the new Bluesky carousel can help sequential artists How to communicate piano music in comics Why floating music notes are not “too cartoony” for semi-realistic comics Using established comics iconography instead of reinventing the wheel Why comics can suggest music but rarely reproduce the experience of music How manga and anime use visual language more freely Using musical notation as a visual “spice,” not the whole dish Why analytics can become creative avoidance Whether it matters how quickly a comic reaches its maximum views Why “magic number” thinking can distract from improving the next comic Why creators should spend less time dusting bookcases and more time making better comics What's better? A simple gag or one that requires the audience to think? UPDATE: Comic-Con International booth 1228 Update: Bluesky update... 10 images per post! Indicating music in a realistic comic How long does it take to achieve maximum views? You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

This week, Brad and Dave discuss one of the easiest traps for independent creators to fall into: Outsourcing important business or creative decisions to reader polls. Audience feedback can be useful, but when creators ask readers to steer decisions about Patreon tiers, Kickstarter rewards, publishing strategy, or creative direction, they often get noisy, contradictory advice that can lead them away from their own best judgment. Topics covered in this episode include: Why readers are experts in consumption, not creation The danger of asking your audience to make business decisions for you Brad's cautionary tale from his early days as a newspaper designer Why negative comments carry more psychological weight than positive ones The difference between listening to readers and asking readers to decide Why feedback should be treated as a compass, not a steering wheel How polling readers can create factions and resentment among backers Why creators should rely first on their own instincts, goals, and judgment The value of seeking advice from trusted peers and experienced professionals Why no single expert — including ComicLab — should be treated as the only authority Dave's hierarchy of advice: Heart and mind first, peers and pros second, passive reader feedback third Erika Moen's thoughtful counterpoint about social-media assistants How a social-media assistant can protect creators from harassment, criticism, and burnout The difference between a social-media assistant as a partner versus a replacement Plans and possibilities for future live ComicLab events Dave's San Diego Comic-Con appearance at Booth 1228, including free ComicLab pins for listeners A listener question about “boomer humor” and whether it should be taken as an insult The difference between old-fashioned joke structure and out-of-touch subject matter Why traditional setup-and-punchline comedy still works How Reddit comments often reflect meme culture more than thoughtful criticism When repeated criticism might be worth filtering for a useful grain of truth Why creators should protect their confidence while staying open to thoughtful feedback You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Neither of us is actually in Old Town today — but as Brady put it, we're there in spirit. On this Friends of Old Town edition of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael catches up with Brady Cloven (Executive Director, Friends of Old Town Winchester) via Zoom while he's at a tourism conference in Pennsylvania, pitching bus tours on coming to Winchester. The conversation is released just minutes before Brady cuts the ribbon on the South End Literacy Mural at the splash pad — the year-long project with United Way, the John and Janice Wyatt Foundation, and the Winchester Campaign for Grade-Level Reading that's already doing what it was designed to do (drawing kids and parents to a previously quiet end of the walking mall). Brady walks through Friends of Old Town's recent three-award sweep from Virginia Main Street — including milestone recognition for crossing 40,000 volunteer hours (about $1 million in volunteered time) and 10,000+ building projects across 40 years — plus the upcoming Friends of Old Town public art initiative at Taylor Pavilion (37 artist applications, narrowed to a top six). Then it's a full preview of the July 4th VA250 Downtown Jubilee — 12-to-10 PM with Made in Virginia vendors, two live music acts at Taylor Pavilion, the reading of the Declaration of Independence, a Cheerwine relay chug, a Snow White slider eating contest, and a laser-light show to close out the night. Plus details on the August 22 Dog Days of Summer Hot Dog Crawl, a teaser for the Monty Python pub crawl on July 17, and a friendly reminder that the parrot in the mural is wearing a pirate hat for a reason — though Janet is more than willing to take credit on Brady's behalf. EVENT LINEUP — JULY-AUGUST IN OLD TOWN WINCHESTER FIRST FRIDAY — Friday, July 3 • All That of Winchester at Taylor Pavilion (6:30–8:30 PM, with a break) • Artist Alley on Boscawen — curated by Tin Top in June; new partner each month • Sip and Stroll active throughout • Then head to Jim Barnett Park for Red, White & Boom fireworks VA250 DOWNTOWN JUBILEE — Saturday, July 4 • 12 PM–10 PM • Made in Virginia vendor fair (10–15 vendors throughout the mall) • Rebecca Porter (Americana/country) — Taylor Pavilion, 12–3 PM • Reading of the Declaration of Independence + presentation of colors (Sons & Daughters of the American Revolution) • Melissa and the Mothmen (honky-tonk) — Taylor Pavilion, 5–8 PM • Cheerwine relay chug race • Snow White slider eating contest • Laser-light show at dusk (between 9:00 and 9:30 PM) • Sip and Stroll active throughout MONTY PYTHON PUB CRAWL — Thursday, July 17 • Joint fundraiser with Friends of Old Town, United Way, Blue Ridge Cares, Winchester CCAP, and ARE. Costumes encouraged. Details via partner organizations. DOG DAYS OF SUMMER HOT DOG CRAWL — Friday, August 22 • 12:00–6:00 PM $30 ticket gets unlimited hot dogs at 8 participating Old Town businesses (plus a surprise import). Score the dogs, crown a champion, music at Taylor Pavilion. Best Dressed Hot Dog competition for costumed attendees. Limited tickets — buy early via the event page on Facebook (Eventbrite link). TAYLOR PAVILION MURAL — coming September 2026 • The next Friends of Old Town mural, going on the Mountain Trails building and the stucco above the wine room patio. Selected from 37 artist submissions. LINKS & RESOURCES • Friends of Old Town: friendsofoldtown.org (community calendar — events from across Old Town) • Friends of Old Town on Facebook (event pages for every gathering) • Friends of Old Town on Instagram: @friendsofoldtownwinc • Mural partners: United Way of the Northern Shenandoah Valley, John and Janice Wyatt Foundation, Winchester Campaign for Grade-Level Reading THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday

This week, Brad and Dave discuss what happens after a cartoonist achieves the dream: making a living from comics. They explain why success can create its own time-management problems, how to protect the thing that's already working, and why adding books, Kickstarter campaigns, merch, newsletters, or conventions should happen gradually. They also talk about practical systems for numbering webcomic pages, naming files, and keeping longform comics organized over time. Main topics covered Weird convention-reader encounters, including disputed signatures and free-sketch requests What to do when your comic and Patreon are working, but there's no time for anything else Protecting the “engine” of your business before adding new projects Avoiding concentration risk when most income comes from one platform Adding new business layers slowly instead of trying to do everything at once Using small projects, like enamel pins, as manageable learning experiences Why side projects can derail your main comic if you're not careful Finding extra time without wrecking your life or mental health Dave's San Diego Comic-Con booth and the free ComicLab enamel pin How to number pages for longform webcomics The difference between website numbering and book-page numbering Using SEO-friendly titles, focus keyphrases, transcripts, and alt text File-naming conventions for comics, including dates, chapters, pages, and vertical-scroll segments Planning ahead for long-running comics so your numbering system doesn't break later You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

In this special solo mini-episode of The Marvelists, host Eddie Wilson sits down with special guest Dave O'Hare for an in-depth conversation about one of New Jersey's biggest and coolest comic conventions: Garden State Comic Fest Summer 2026! Eddie and Dave break down everything fans need to know about the upcoming event — from the massive lineup of celebrity guests (including Amy Jo Johnson, the original Pink Power Ranger; TMNT co-creator Kevin Eastman; The Crow creator James O'Barr; Thanos creator Jim Starlin; and more) to the huge Artist Alley, killer vendor floor packed with comics, collectibles, and exclusives, cosplay celebrations, panels, and the air-conditioned comfort of the Richard J. Codey Arena in West Orange, NJ. Whether you're a longtime attendee or planning your first trip, this episode is packed with tips, highlights, and insider info to help you make the most of the show. Plus, Eddie and Dave share why GSCF stands out as New Jersey's premier comic convention. gardenstatecomicfest.com Garden State Comic Fest takes place June 27–28, 2026 at the Richard J. Codey Arena (560 Northfield Ave, West Orange, NJ). Tickets are on sale now! • Grab single-day or weekend passes (with VIP options for early entry and perks). • Kids 10 & under are free with a paid adult ticket. • Buy early to guarantee entry and skip the lines. Get your tickets here: gardenstatecomicfest.com/summer26tickets gardenstatecomicfest.com

What seems like a simple question about exclamation points opens up a much bigger discussion about the power of comics lettering. Brad and Dave talk about punctuation, word balloons, font choices, and the unique grammar of comics — and why cartoonists have tools that prose writers can only dream of. They also share thoughts on staying creative during major disruptions, from studio moves to home renovations. On today's show... Exclamation points in comics: how many is too many? Whether to use one, two, or three exclamation points Why comics grammar differs from prose grammar Using lettering, font size, bolding, and balloon shape instead of extra punctuation When punctuation becomes unnecessary in comics lettering Nate Piekos's The Essential Guide to Comic Book Lettering Question marks, exclamation points, and the interrobang How punctuation order can affect emotional meaning Writing dialogue for comics: numerals, abbreviations, and natural speech Jim Davis, Garfield, and simplifying comics language Meeting readers where they are through visual storytelling NCS Reuben Awards weekend in Columbus, Ohio Brad and Dave's panel: “Actionable Advice in a Time of Change” Remodeling, moving studios, and creative disruption Setting up a dedicated creative space during chaos Managing the cognitive load of unfinished studio/home projects Why working ahead matters before a move or remodel The danger of putting fun distractions in your studio The temptation of arcade cabinets, pool tables, and other creativity killers You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Hello Everybody This week, Ed talks about reviewing AnimeConUK Birmingham 2026 by discussing The Good, The Bad and The Ugly of the event. Join me as I recap the ultimate con experience! I'm breaking down my favourite activities, the star-studded voice actor panels, my Artist Alley hauls, and all the unforgettable moments. Music credit – Hotshot, produced by Scott Holmes Artwork by khemmings94 To support my podcast, please visit our Patreon page Food And Cosplay Links Website // BSky // Instagram // Threads // Facebook // Twitter

Today's show is sponsored by Huion, makers of the Huion Kamvas 22 (Gen 3) — a 21.5" pen display with a gorgeous 2.5K screen and really smooth performance. Bottom line: it feels great to draw on — and it punches way above its price. • Check it out at https://comiclabshop.com • Use code COMICLAB5 for an exclusive 5% discount! (Valid through June 14th) This week, Dave returns from Alaska Comics Camp — https://minicon.alaskarobotics.com/comics-camp/ — with a glowing review of what he calls one of the most meaningful experiences of his professional life. He explains how the camp blends education, community, mentorship, and artistic growth in a remote setting that forces attendees to disconnect from technology and reconnect with one another. Along the way, Brad and Dave discuss what makes the camp special, the value of peer-to-peer learning, the recent panic over Kickstarter's updated NSFW guidelines, Eisner nominations, and the realities of pursuing recognition in comics. Alaska Comics Camp Alaska Robotics Comics Camp is a four-night creative retreat in the southeast Alaska rainforest for comics pros, visual storytellers, and adjacent creators — writers, game devs, filmmakers, journalists, musicians, and more. You have to apply to attend. It's not a standard “buy a badge and show up” event; accepted campers attend after the Alaska Robotics Mini-Con in Juneau.  Cost: Camp is listed at $800, which includes four nights of lodging, meals, and transportation to/from downtown Juneau. Financial aid is available, and asking for aid does not affect application review.  What to expect: workshops, presentations, peer conversations, campfires, board games, hanging out, and wandering through the woods and nearby ocean beach — basically “a professional development conference for people who don't like conference rooms.”  Comfort level: rustic but not brutal — heated cabins, bunk beds with mattresses, flushing toilets, hot showers, power outlets, meals, snacks, coffee/tea, towels, and comfort items are provided. There's no regular Wi-Fi or cell service at camp, though service is reachable by hike or ride.  How to participate next year: watch the Alaska Robotics Mini-Con / Comics Camp site and their social channels for the next application window. Recent camps have used an application process with deadlines months ahead of the event, so don't wait until spring to start looking. https://minicon.alaskarobotics.com/comics-camp/ Topics Covered A complete tour of Alaska Comics Camp and how it evolved from a small Juneau event into an international gathering of cartoonists School visits, library presentations, the Alaska Robotics Mini-Con, and the camp experience itself Why the lack of cell service is one of the camp's greatest strengths Classes taught by attendees on topics including storytelling, lettering, humor writing, character development, publishing, and business An NSFW-comics discussion that impressed Brad with the camp's openness and professionalism The importance of "Comics Rules" (similar to Chatham House Rules) in creating a safe environment for sharing industry information Real-world discussions of publishing contracts, agents, income, and career sustainability The anonymous income survey that helps attendees understand the wide range of successful cartooning careers Why Alaska Comics Camp has become one of Dave's favorite events in all of comics Stories from ComicLab listeners who attended camp after hearing about it on the podcast Dave's observations about Alaska's landscape, culture, and strong sense of community The tale of a failed camp water pump and Pat Race's MacGyver-level solution involving a distillery, a fire department, and a garden hose The viral misinformation claiming Kickstarter had banned pornography What Kickstarter's updated NSFW guidelines actually said Why Stripe — not Kickstarter — is the real concern for adult-content creators Brad's emergency solo Pro Tips episode explaining the new guidelines How creators can avoid overreacting to social-media panic cycles Listener feedback about what Brad and Dave's voices sound like to non-Americans Congratulations to friends of the show, including Ryan North, Glenn Fleishman, Tony Cliff, and Steve Lieber, on their Eisner nominations A discussion about award submissions, advocacy, and why creators must nominate themselves The realities of comics awards, including Eisners, Ringo Awards, Hugos, Reubens, and Ignatz Awards Whether award nominations come from changing your work — or simply years of steady improvement and persistence You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Should cartoonists hire a social-media manager? Brad and Dave discuss the pros and cons of outsourcing social media and ultimately argue that most creators should handle it themselves. They explain why social media is an extension of a creator's voice, how direct engagement provides invaluable feedback about audience-building and marketing, and why improving your promotional skills makes you a better cartoonist overall. Along the way, they discuss shyness, self-promotion, audience growth, and the dangers of trying to be everywhere at once online. Topics Covered • The ComicLab newsletter and the “Five to Grow On” feature • Whether cartoonists should hire a social-media manager • Why social media is part of a creator's artistic voice • The value of learning promotion instead of outsourcing it • Why creative people often resist marketing and business skills • How marketing skills can improve artistic skills • The dangers of trying to maintain every social-media platform at once • Brad's “2-2-1” approach to social media • Platform-specific posting strategies and why one-size-fits-all promotion fails • Social-media feedback as a tool for improving your work • Shyness and discomfort with self-promotion • The “lipstick on a pig” problem: when promotion can't compensate for weak work • Why making a great comic remains the most important marketing strategy • Dave's upcoming Reddit AMA and his Hugo Award nomination • Using award nominations as promotional opportunities • Hugo Awards promotional support versus other industry awards • BlueSky starter packs and audience growth • Why cartoonists should do more cross-promotion • Whether creators should put award nominations on book covers • How long to keep promoting a completed comic project • Managing inventory and promoting older books • Long-tail sales and evergreen products • Using older books as bonuses, stretch goals, and loss leaders • When it makes sense to retire promotional efforts • Whether different creative projects need separate Patreons, newsletters, Substacks, and social-media accounts • The benefits and drawbacks of splitting projects into separate brands • Cognitive load, burnout, and managing multiple audiences • Using separate platforms to measure the success of different projects • When creators should keep projects under one roof and when they should branch out You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

With both Brad and Dave nominated for awards this year, the guys spiral into a surprisingly deep conversation about awards, marketing, ego, and whether creators should plaster “award nominee” stickers all over their books. Later, they tackle a listener question about using 3D models, digital sets, and reference material in comics production — leading to a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how both creators actually build comics pages in tools like Clip Studio Paint and Photoshop. Along the way, they discuss why imperfections matter in cartooning, how typography affects visual storytelling, and why “cheating” is often just another word for “working smarter.” Today's Show Should you put an award nomination on a book cover? UPDATE: Hugo Award voter packet "WSFS Membership"  Using sets and other pre-made background materials  UPDATE: Patreon Quips is now available on desktop You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Jason & Trish continue their adventures at The Calgary Expo, venturing down artist's alley to talk to up and coming talents about their past, present, and future projects. Plus SONIA travels past Mars for some target practice. 00:02:49 Cam Hayden talks about The Friends We Made Along the Way and Death Metal Duck! 00:10:35 Nickolej Villager tells stories through song with Radio Days. 00:16:13 Chase Kantor learns how to draw during Inktober and creating his series Jack of Spades. 00:21:44 Richard Fairgray is a Dick (short for Richard). 00:29:18 More from Chase Kantor and murder on the International Space Station. 00:31:15 Becka Kinzie talks about Wormhole Club Tragedy. 00:35:37 Anthony Ruttgaizer creates the Heroes of Homeroom C, remembers his favourite Strip Club Quotes, and Stone Cold Steve Austin! 00:40:48 Adrien Koleric has a comic book soundtrack, plus catches us up on Tod the Bond, The Sitter, and Spoon! 00:48:04 Jonathan Ball talks about Stranger Fiction, his upcoming Image book The Eye Collector, and his horror movie Princess and the Dragon. 00:56:00 Emilia Strilchuk just wants you to Be Yourself! Oh, Not Like That... 01:00:17 Alex Finbow of Renegade Arts has an exciting 2026 line up including Knight Terror, Shame, Fox Burrow and more from Hell Inc. and Modern Asian Family. 01:08:20 Stephano Jun talks about his second volume of his hit, award winning series Modern Asian Family! 01:12:11 Kieth Grachow talk Reponaut, Saltwater, and creating comics with his mom. 01:21:30 Trevor Fernandes-Lenkiewicz keeps things independent with Minutes to Midnight, Rise, and Area 51: The Helix Project at Pocket Watch Press. Support independent podcasts like ours by telling your friends and family how to find us at places like Apple Podcasts, iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tune In Radio, PodChaser, Amazon Music, Audible, Libsyn, iHeartRadio and all the best podcast providers. Spread the love! Like, share and subscribe! You can also help out the show with a positive review and a 5-star rating over on iTunes / Apple Podcasts. We want to hear from you and your opinions will help shape the future of the show. Your ratings and reviews also help others find the show. Their "earballs" will thank you. https://invasionoftheremake.wixsite.com/podcast Follow us on BlueSky: @invasionremake.bsky.social Follow us on X/Twitter: @InvasionRemake Like and share us on Facebook, Instagram & Tik-Tok: Invasion of the Remake Email us your questions, suggestions, corrections, challenges and comments: invasionoftheremake@gmail.com Buy a cool t-shirt, hoodies, hats, and other Invasion of the Remake swag at our merchandise store!

On this Friends of Old Town edition of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael and Brady Cloven are joined at Hideaway Café by Stephanie Novak — owner of Ritual Spa at the George Washington Hotel and Coven Salon on Millwood Avenue — for a wide-ranging chat about pampering, pirates, and a packed June in Old Town Winchester. Steph shares what's behind Ritual Spa's nearly-two-year run inside the historic GW (lymphatic drainage, customized facials, hot tub access, and 24/7 online gift certificates) and how its sister salon Coven brings the "wilder and edgy" side. Then Brady runs through everything coming up downtown — the newly (almost) completed childhood literacy mural by the splash pad, First Friday's return, Hop Blossom, KidzFest, Juneteenth, and the laser-light VA 250 Downtown Jubilee. Plus an honest update on why the splash pad is sidelined for the summer and what Friends of Old Town is doing about it. WHO'S ON THIS EPISODE Brady Cloven — Executive Director, Friends of Old Town Winchester Steph Novak — Owner, Ritual Spa (at the George Washington Hotel) and Coven Salon (on Millwood Avenue) IN THIS EPISODE Hideaway Café check-in + the new castle exhibit at the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum Meet Steph — how Ritual Spa came to live inside the historic GW Hotel What's on offer — massage, facials, and access to the hotel pool and hot tub Why a great facial can be just as relaxing as a massage Specialty massage — lymphatic drainage, zero balancing, and post-surgical healing For people who don't love being touched — how a good service provider makes it work 24/7 online gift certificates (and why you can't buy one at the front desk) Coven Salon — hair, lashes, permanent cosmetics, massage, facials, and a whole lot of social media chaos Hours and websites for both locations The new childhood literacy mural by the splash pad — a year in the making New public art guidelines for Old Town — the lasting win behind the mural Meet artist Annalise Buono, plus local collaborators Jill Savry and Alyssa Ruby The next mural at Taylor Pavilion — "past, present, performance" — open call Why the splash pad is closed this summer (and what's being planned in its place) First Friday returns June 5th — band, Artist Alley, vendor fair, Sip and Stroll Hop Blossom on June 6th + the Newberry building after-party KidzFest June 13th — dunk tank, free ice cream, free kids meals, and 30 vendors Juneteenth weekend with Hood Love VA 250 Downtown Jubilee — an all-day July 4th event with three laser-light shows Main Street Masterpieces — local artists in vacant storefronts Memorial Day weekend drone show at Jim Barnett Park (250 drones) New downtown openings — Revival Vintage, Winchester Tavern, Please Boutique, Mood and Moss OLD TOWN WINCHESTER — JUNE AT A GLANCE First Friday — Friday, June 5 • 5 PM onward • Raised on Analog 6:30–8 PM • Artist Alley curated by Tin Top Art • Moon Phase vendor fair Sip and Stroll Hop Blossom (13th annual) — Saturday, June 6 • Newberry building hosts the after-party with live music and merch Kids Fest — Saturday, June 13 • 30 vendors • dunk tank • face painting • street performers • free ice cream from Uncle Beehive's (first 200 kids) • free kids meals from Snow White Grill (first 200) Juneteenth weekend — Saturday, June 20 • event hosted by Hood Love (details on social) Memorial Day weekend — Jim Barnett Park drone show (250 drones) — follow Winchester City Parks on Facebook for weather updates VA 250 Downtown Jubilee — July 4 • all-day event • three 20-minute laser-light shows LINKS & RESOURCES Ritual Spa: theritualspawinchester.com Coven Salon: thecovensalon.com Friends of Old Town: friendsofoldtown.org Friends of Old Town on Facebook: "Friends of Old Town" Friends of Old Town on Instagram: @friendsofoldtownwinc Taylor Pavilion mural — open call for submissions (details on friendsofoldtown.org) Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum — castle exhibit running all summer Winchester City Parks on Facebook — drone show updates THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday

Today's show is sponsored by Huion, makers of the Huion Kamvas 22 (Gen 3) — a 21.5" pen display with a gorgeous 2.5K screen and really smooth performance. Bottom line: it feels great to draw on — and it punches way above its price. • Check it out at https://comiclabshop.com • Use code COMICLAB5 for an exclusive 5% discount! (Valid through June 14th) Brad and Dave tackle a listener question that gets to the heart of creative careers: Can you make a living telling shorter stories, or does success demand long-form work? As always, the answer is equal parts practical advice and creative philosophy — grounded in real-world experience and delivered with ComicLab's signature mix of humor and honesty. TODAY'S SHOW • Can you build a career on individual short stories? • Market expectations around story length (comics, film, TV) and perceived value • Creative problem-solving as a business tool — making unconventional formats work • Strategies for packaging short stories (genre consistency, shared setting, through-lines) • Examples of experimental storytelling formats (anthologies, vignette structures) • PROMO: Huion Kamvas 22 (Gen 3) — features, workflow integration, and discount code ComicLab5 at https://comiclabshop.com • Estate planning for cartoonists — what happens to your IP after death? • Debate: Should creative work become public domain sooner? • Should kids continue your comic… or make their own work? • The reality of legacy comics vs. modern independent publishing You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

A listener asks whether some words are inherently funnier than others—and it opens the door to a deep dive on word choice, dialogue, and how to make jokes land harder. Brad and Dave break down why shorter, punchier words tend to win, how sound and rhythm affect comedy, and why you should always end on the funniest word. They also walk through their real-world writing process—cutting aggressively, reading dialogue out loud, and constantly swapping in better word choices. From there, the conversation expands into how to write strong dialogue (hint: it's not about realism—it's about impact), plus a list of pitfalls to avoid, including gimmicky accents, overstuffed word balloons, and writing that slows the reader down. They also revisit a past take on political cartoons (turns out, they're thriving on Reddit), talk about the return of Web 1.0 strategies like guest comics, and reinforce a core principle: own your platform and your audience. TODAY'S SHOW • Writing funny words: Why word choice makes or breaks a joke • Psychologist vs. psychiatrist — choosing the funnier word (it's "shrink") • How to edit your way to stronger, tighter dialogue • Dialogue pitfalls: accents, gimmicks, and readability traps • Political cartoons are thriving on Reddit (and what that means) • The return of Web 1.0 tactics: Guest comics and cross-promotion • Reclaiming your platform: Why websites still matter You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

This episode examines a Bluesky thread where cartoonists self-reported their financial realities. While the original question was thoughtful — seeking insight into full-time and part-time comic careers — the resulting discussion revealed a common problem: an echo chamber of discouragement. Brad and Dave emphasize that these threads often skew negative due to self-selection bias. Many successful creators don't participate—either because they're busy, uncomfortable sharing income, or wary of backlash. The result? A distorted picture where it appears that no one is succeeding, even though many are. TODAY'S SHOW Nobody makes a living in comics ComicLab LIVE at the NCS Conference and Reuben Awards, Aug. 6-8, Columbus, Ohio — nationalcartoonists.com Tattoos Baby Blues and Zits announce retirement Death of syndication   You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Today's show is sponsored by Huion, makers of the Huion Kamvas 22 (Gen 3) — a 21.5" pen display with a gorgeous 2.5K screen and really smooth performance. Bottom line: it feels great to draw on — and it punches way above its price. *Check it out here: https://comiclabshop.com *Use code COMICLAB5 for an exclusive 5% discount! (Valid through June 14th) On Today's Show: Your comic is gaining traction — but now readers want answers faster than you can tell the story. Brad and Dave explain why that's actually a great sign — and how to turn audience curiosity into a powerful engine that keeps readers hooked instead of overwhelming your narrative. PLUS — CONGRATULATIONS TO DAVE KELLETT FOR HIS HUGO AWARD NOMINATION! TOPICS Dave Kellett has been nominated for a Hugo Award How much to share with an eager audience ComicLab Confab (609) DRY-ELB-0 Update: USPS fuel surcharge will *not* affect Media Mail prices New tariff worries NCS conference and Reuben Awards Aug. 6-8, Columbus, Ohio Different ways to present a scene A listener question leads into the episode's central topic: what to do when a new project suddenly starts attracting attention and readers begin asking lore questions faster than the story can answer them. Brad and Dave frame this as the best possible problem for a storyteller to have — not a crisis, but proof that the story is working. Their advice is to resist the urge to dump exposition too early, and instead use reader curiosity as fuel to keep them engaged and coming back for more. Another listener question asks how to make necessary exposition more entertaining in a history comic, and the hosts widen that into a general storytelling discussion. They explore how to handle “problem panels” — moments where important information must be conveyed, but the raw facts feel static or dull. Their answer is that exposition does not need to be delivered plainly: creators can change the point of view, alter the tone, insert found documents, frame facts through action, or even break into totally different storytelling modes if it makes the comic more engaging. The episode also includes a couple of business updates for cartoonists. Brad shares good news about USPS fuel surcharges not applying to Media Mail, which matters for creators shipping books, while Dave warns that new tariffs may affect imported book shipments and advises cartoonists to build more buffer into Kickstarter budgets for 2026. It's a practical reminder that making comics also means staying alert to the changing realities of fulfillment and production costs. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Today's show is sponsored by Huion, makers of the Huion Kamvas 22 (Gen 3) — go to https://bit.ly/41pXyI7 or https://comiclabshop.com and use the code COMICLAB5 to unlock an exclusive 5% discount! (Valid 4/6/2026 - 6/14/2026) The Kamvas 22 (Gen 3) is the New 22" Benchmark. A powerful yet accessible 21.5'' pen display featuring a 2.5K QHD 90Hz screen, PenTech 4.0, and Canvas Glass 2.0. Designed for smooth, precise, and true-to-life creation, it redefines what an entry-level display can deliver — professional performance without the premium price. TODAY'S SHOW How to do a two-page splash page Get your discounted Huion Kamvas 22 (Gen 3) at comiclabshop.com - COMICLAB5 UPDATE: Got a comment for ComicLab? Dial the ComicLab Confab! ‪(609) 379-3520‬... that's (609) DRY ELB-0 NCS in Columbus, Ohio, Aug 6-8 USPS fuel surcharge goes into effect April 26th and ends (maybe?) Jan. 17, 2027 (NOTE: This will not affect Media Mail pricing) Editorial cartoonists on social media What's the deal with Susan MacTaggart? Introducing Dr. Reginald Wigglesby Splash Pages Brad and Dave take a deep dive into splash pages — what they are, how they've traditionally been used, and how they function differently in print versus webcomics. They discuss classic first-page splash images as attention-grabbing devices, as well as the practical reality that they can help creators hit deadlines. Dave shares how he uses splash pages sparingly in Drive to give big moments room to breathe, while Brad explains how he uses them consistently at the start of chapters in Evil Inc, both as storytelling tools and promotional assets. The conversation also explores why two-page splash spreads can struggle online — especially on mobile — and reinforces a key principle: a graphic novel page is not the same as a webcomic update, and each must be designed with its medium in mind. ComicLab Confab (Listener Calls) The guys remind listeners about the ComicLab Confab — their voicemail line where creators can call in with questions, comments, or hot takes. It's an easy, low-pressure way for the community to participate in the show and potentially have their thoughts featured on-air. If you've got something to say about comics, business, or creative life, you can dial ‪(609) 379-3520 — that's (609) DRY-ELB-0. National Cartoonists Society — Columbus, Ohio Brad and Dave highlight the upcoming National Cartoonists Society event in Columbus, Ohio (Aug. 6–8), encouraging cartoonists to attend. They emphasize the value of in-person networking, camaraderie, and professional development that comes from gathering with other working cartoonists — something that can be hard to replicate online. https://nationalcartoonists.com/registration-now-open-80th-reuben-awards-ncs-conference/ USPS Fuel Surcharge Update A practical business note: the USPS fuel surcharge goes into effect April 26 and is expected to run (possibly) through January 17, 2027. This will impact many shipping rates for creators who sell physical goods, though Media Mail remains unaffected. For cartoonists running Kickstarters, online stores, or Patreon rewards, this is a reminder to factor rising shipping costs into pricing and planning. https://about.usps.com/newsroom/national-releases/2026/0325-usps-announces-transportation-related-time-limited-price-change.htm Editorial Cartoonists on Social Media The conversation touches on how editorial cartoonists are navigating social media — including the challenges of visibility, audience building, and platform changes. Brad and Dave reflect on how shifting algorithms and audience behavior can affect political and commentary-based comics, and what that means for creators trying to get their work seen. What's the Deal with Susan MacTaggart? In a classic ComicLab aside, Brad and Dave riff on the mysterious (and confusing) name “Susan MacTaggart,” using it as an example of how something presented without context can create intrigue — or just bewilderment. It ties back humorously to their broader discussions about clarity, audience expectations, and grabbing attention. Introducing Dr. Reginald Wigglesby The episode also features the introduction of Dr. Reginald Wigglesby — a comedic bit that adds to the show's ongoing tradition of playful world-building and running gags. It's a reminder that even in a craft-focused podcast, humor and character bits are part of what makes ComicLab feel like hanging out with friends. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

This week on ComicLab, veteran comic artists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett kick things off a discussion about something every cartoonist wrestles with: work-life balance. If you're juggling a day job, relationships, and your creative ambitions, Brad and Dave break down practical strategies that actually work — including: • Why consistency beats intensity • How to build a repeatable creative schedule • The power of small, daily wins • And why your health and relationships are just as critical as your drawing skills They also tackle a big-picture career question: What happens when a long-running comic ends? Dave shares his thoughts on winding down Drive, how to retain an audience, and the challenge of transitioning into your next project without losing momentum. Plus: • Smart ways to monetize short comics • Why finished is better than perfect • And how thinking long-term can transform your creative output Whether you're just starting your first comic or planning your next big move, this episode is packed with actionable advice — and a few chaotic detours along the way. Key takeaway: Three years are going to pass anyway… you might as well have a finished comic at the end of them. Today's Show • UPDATE: Enshittification of Bluesky begins • Work-Life balance • UPDATE: NCS Conference and Reuben Awards • Monetizing short comics • What will Dave do when Drive is over? For more information about joining the National Cartoonists Society, go to https://nationalcartoonists.com/how-to-join/ • Get on the mailing list  • More information on the 27 Club • 80th annual Reuben Awards and NCS Conference — August 6-8, 2026   You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

In this episode of ComicLab, Brad and Dave tackle a surprisingly practical question: How do you start a web ring for comics creators? With social media platforms becoming less reliable for discovery, the classic web ring is making a comeback as a way for creators to promote each other directly. Along the way, the guys discuss audience targeting, technical setup, and why the success of a web ring depends more on community alignment than on code. Plus: tattoo debates, Tolkien romance arguments, and the eternal challenge of drawing the right amount of detail in your comics.  Key  topics How to start a web ring UPDATE: Dave should read Tolkein as a romance How much detail should we include in our drawings? Amazon plagiarism Paid setup Matt Sowers, who created the Hot Box web ring software can install and host the software for you. Contact him at hotbox@rcsipublishing.com $50 — install on your server $100 — hosted setup (includes one year hosting). After that, hosting is $75/year. $75/year — ongoing web hosting for your comic You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

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"Yasuke" is a duology based on the real story of Yasuke, who was the first African samurai. The first book, "Dead Man Walking," is a prose novel, while its sequel, "Resurrection," is a graphic novel. Mitch talks with author Braxton Cosby about his creative process and some of his other works. Both of these books, as well as a side story in the "Yasuke" universe, are available now.   Follow us!

Join in the conversation!Welcome back to another episode of the Hella Chisme Podcast.In this episode of Hella Chisme, Dana sits down with artist Hail, also known as icametosin, for a conversation about queer art, body positivity, vampire aesthetics, creative process, and what it means to build a visual world rooted in representation.Kicking off during Women's History Month and International Women's Day, this episode opens with a reflection on women shaping culture, community, and sustainable change before moving into a rich artist spotlight conversation centered on creativity, identity, and artistic evolution.Hail shares how his journey as an artist began, from early creative influences and band merch design to building his signature style through digital illustration, dark aesthetics, queer representation, and bara-inspired artwork. Together, Dana and Hell talk about vampires, Anne Rice, Interview with the Vampire, queer desire in horror, body positivity, and the importance of showing Black and brown bodies, bigger bodies, and different forms of beauty in art.The conversation also dives into artistic process, commissions, entrepreneurship, social media burnout, algorithm struggles, and the reality of being an independent creative trying to grow a brand while still making meaningful work. Hell also shares more about preparing for his first Artist Alley at C2E2 and why getting his work in front of new audiences matters.This episode is for anyone who loves queer art, dark fantasy, vampires, artist interviews, creative entrepreneurship, and conversations about representation, identity, and building a creative life on your own terms.Follow Hail: https://www.instagram.com/icametosin/https://www.instagram.com/hailsvoid/Support Hail:https://gofund.me/4f91591a1Topics include: queer art, body positivity, vampires, dark art, bara art, digital illustration, Black and brown representation, artist process, creative entrepreneurship, social media for artists, C2E2, and independent queer creatives.LINK: https://linktr.ee/hellachismepodcastSupport the showFollow Hella Chisme for more culture, conversation, and creative storytelling. Subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube, and keep up with us on Instagram, Threads, and TikTok at @hellachismepod. Join the chisme, share the episode, and leave a review or comment to support the show.

Making friends in the comics community can be... complicated. After all, we're kind of an introverted bunch. When it comes to social interaction, Brad and Dave have made all the mistakes, so you don't have to! They'll talk about trying too hard, encountering hostility, and trying to fit into a community that's just not right for you. Speaking of realizing a community isn't a good fit, Dave just found out he was kicked off Amazon. And that's perfectly OK with him. Today's Show UPDATE: Dave has been kicked off Amazon! UPDATE: Our listeners recommend eBay for international shipping Making friends with other cartoonists What can a full-time self-published comic artist expect to earn? Summary In this engaging episode, cartoonists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett explore the complexities of social interactions within the creative community, the challenges of online publishing, and the evolving role of AI in content moderation. They share personal stories, practical advice, and insights on navigating friendships, social media, and the digital landscape as artists and creators. They share personal stories, industry insights, and humorous banter that will inspire and inform creators at all levels. Key Topics Social interactions among artists and creators Challenges of online publishing and content moderation Strategies for building and maintaining friendships in creative communities The financial realities of full-time cartooning The importance of evolving creatively and professionally Understanding the influence of zeitgeist on comic success You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

What's the difference between a concept and a conceit — and why does confusing the two quietly sabotage so many comics? In this episode, Brad and Dave break down one of the most important (and misunderstood) distinctions in storytelling. A concept is the engine that drives your story forward. A conceit is a clever wrapper that might look great… but doesn't go anywhere. If you've ever launched a comic that felt strong at first but ran out of momentum, this conversation will hit home. We talk about: Why constraints actually fuel creativity How to test whether your idea has real staying power The danger of building a comic around a gimmick And how to strengthen your story before you spend months drawing it Today's show: A comic without recurring characters UPDATE: ComicLab accent challenge UPDATE: Amazon Advantage UPDATE: DoubleDogBook.com How to do a sarcastic word balloon Takeaways Character design plays a crucial role in storytelling. Comics can thrive without a central protagonist. Idea-driven comics have historical precedence. Naming a comic can be a challenging but essential task. Feedback is vital in the creative process. Constraints can enhance creativity and focus. Monosyllabic titles are often more memorable. A good title can significantly impact a comic's success. The creative journey involves trial and error. Sharing ideas at smaller levels can reveal what resonates. Avoiding sunk cost fallacy is crucial in decision-making. Amazon Advantage can lead to unexpected losses. Understanding the costs of shipping is essential for profitability. Sarcasm in comics requires careful visual and textual cues. Bold lettering can enhance the impact of sarcasm. Walt Kelly's techniques in lettering were innovative but sometimes excessive. Comic creators should consider the visual presentation of dialogue. A well-crafted word balloon can convey emotion effectively. The legacy of past cartoonists informs current practices. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

This week, we welcome the brilliant Dylan Meconis, creator of Queen of the Sea and Bite Me. Here's what we cover: How most colorists actually break in (hint: it's not by “murdering another colorist in single combat” — though that was discussed) What “flatting” is — and why it's often your first step into paid coloring work Why networking is really just “being friends with cartoonists” Portfolio strategy: Why saying “I do everything” is less effective than saying “I do this brilliantly” Analog coloring techniques — watercolor paper, oil-based pencils, and why certain materials go extinct at the worst possible moment The realities of scanning physical art (and why scanners are basically cameras on an arm) How to handle black plates, rich black, and avoiding fuzzy type in print If you've ever wondered whether coloring could be an income stream for you — or how to level up your current process — this episode is a masterclass. Products and Programs mentioned on the show Note: Some of the links are affiliate links WildCraft Studio is in Portland, Oregon.  PITT monochrome oil pencils by Faber-Castell Watercolor paints, Daniel Smith brand Watercolor paper (cold press) by Arches White watercolor paper, Dick Blick house brand Epson scanner, Perfection series Epson scanner, Workforce series Colored pencils, Caran d'Ache Summary In this engaging conversation, the hosts welcome cartoonist Dylan Meconis to explore various topics including coloring techniques, the integration of digital and traditional media, and the importance of choosing the right materials for comic creation. Dylan shares insights into her unique artistic process, the challenges of color printing, and the significance of lettering in comics. The discussion also highlights the value of collaboration and the joy of discovering new art supplies. Takeaways Dylan Meconis emphasizes the importance of using various mediums in art. The process of creating 'Queen of the Sea' involved unique coloring techniques. Dylan's artistic process includes both traditional and digital methods. Choosing the right materials can significantly impact the final artwork. Scanners play a crucial role in capturing traditional art for digital use. Lettering is an essential aspect of comic creation that requires careful consideration. Collaboration with other artists can enhance the creative process. Experimenting with different art supplies can lead to unexpected discoveries. Understanding color printing challenges is vital for comic artists. Dylan's approach to art is influenced by her background and experiences.     You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

A listener writes in after a breakup, worried they've lost their creative spark for good. Brad and Dave unpack the emotional toll of heartbreak, why creative paralysis is normal, and how time, grief, and self-reflection can ultimately deepen your storytelling. Also: Dave is quitting Amazon Advantage, and he shares why he made that startling decision.Today's ShowComics Will Break Your Heart (and so will dating)Dave Kellett's "Double Dog Dare" bookAmazon AdvantageImposter Syndrome and mental healthTakeawaysIt's normal to feel creatively blocked after a heartbreak.Finding joy in solitude can help with creativity.Time is essential for healing after a breakup.Navigating international shipping can be complex and frustrating.Mental health is crucial for creative individuals.Imposter syndrome can hinder the creative process.Seeking professional help is important for mental health issues.Weather can significantly affect mood and creativity.Sharing experiences can help others feel less alone.Listener feedback can provide valuable insights for improvement. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

The Mel Brooks documentary, "The 99-Year-Old Man!" holds a lot of wisdom for cartoonists. Speaking of wisdom, it doesn't take much to avoid these common Kickstarter scams.Today's ShowWhat can cartoonists learn from Mel Brooks?KickstarterSummaryIn this episode of ComicLab, cartoonists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett discuss the challenges and joys of creativity, drawing inspiration from Mel Brooks' documentary. They explore themes of fear, kindness, and the importance of perseverance in artistic careers. The conversation also touches on the realities of navigating Kickstarter campaigns, including the rise of scams targeting creators. Throughout, the hosts emphasize the power of laughter and the need for support in the creative community.TakeawaysFear is a recurring theme in creativity.The fear of not trying is greater than the fear of failure.Kindness can have a profound impact on artists.Perseverance doesn't mean sticking to what's not working.You can reinvent yourself as an artist at any stage.Kickstarter scams are on the rise; be cautious.Laughter is a powerful tool for change.Support from friends is crucial in creative journeys.It's important to recognize the struggles behind success.Creativity often requires stepping out of comfort zones.   You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Thank you for your continued support as I try to work through getting new content out! I'm beyond happy to start off the new year strong with a really fun episode with one of my friends Donny otherwise known as SpvceVVitch online. He's trying to get into cosplay more and got to attend MAGFest last month for the second time. Pretty much we go into it in regards to what the convention was like, its theming, helping out at the Artist Alley with some of his friends and the things that make this festival a non stop party! Really had a blast talking and catching up with him. I hope you all enjoy this episode :)

In this episode of Con Job, Ryan and Jeremy break down how fan expectations have shifted, why quality and presentation matter more than ever, and what artists and vendors need to change if they want to stay profitable at conventions in 2026 and beyond.If you sell in Artist Alley, Vendor Hall, or rely on convention income, this episode isn't about hype it's about adapting...Adapt of Die....Enjoy!!

Cartoonists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett dig into the many ways we react to humor — from full-on belly laughs to the silent internal “that was good” response. After that the way, they tackle some big (and surprisingly relatable) topics:Are they actually going to use Patreon Quips?Dave's Bad 2025 — what went wrong, what he learned, and why it mattersWhy you never stop building an audience, even when things feel “established”And yes… being scared of Reddit comments is universal!SummaryIn this episode of Comic Lab, hosts Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar dive into the nature of humor in comics, prompted by a listener's question about whether funny comics truly elicit laughter or if they are simply enjoyable. Brad and Dave explore the subjective nature of humor, sharing their own experiences with laughter and recognition of craft in comedy. Next, they delve into the ongoing journey of building and maintaining an audience in the ever-evolving landscape of comics. They emphasize that there is no such thing as a 'built audience.' Audience engagement is a continuous process that requires constant effort and adaptation. Drawing on the metaphor of the Ship of Theseus, they discuss how creators must regularly replace and update their strategies to keep their audience engaged, acknowledging that audience members may leave for various reasons, including life changes or simply forgetting about the content.The conversation also touches on the emotional toll of negative feedback, particularly on platforms like Reddit, where creators often face harsh criticism. Brad and Dave share personal anecdotes about dealing with trolls and the importance of focusing on the positive aspects of audience engagement. They conclude by reinforcing the idea that the creative journey is ongoing, and that every creator must continually learn and adapt to thrive in the industry.Takeaways"Not every year is going to be gangbusters."There's no such thing as a built audience; you're always in building mode.Audience engagement is like the Ship of Theseus; it's constantly changing.You should aim to gain 2-6% new audience every month to replace those who leave.Negative comments often come from unhappy individuals; don't take them personally.Every creator must continually learn and adapt to thrive in the industry. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Hello Everybody This week, Ed talks about reviewing MegaConLive London 2026 by discussing what I felt was good and bad about the event. I chat about Artist Alley, the crowd levels, security, a strange smell and much more! If you want to add your views of the event, drop them in the Instagram post below. https://www.instagram.com/p/DT-WDTGjOM2/ Music credit – Hotshot, produced by Scott Holmes Artwork by khemmings94 To support my podcast, please visit our Patreon page Food And Cosplay Links Website // BSky // Instagram // Threads // Facebook // Twitter

"The Laundrymen" is a graphic novel series that follows Wade and Bryan, two monster hunters who use a laundromat as their home base. In their new story, Wade and Bryan get caught in the middle of a war between vampires and werewolves.   Comic creators Steven Kaul and Lyndon Radchenka come back to the Artist Alley Spotlight to talk about Book Two, which launches on Kickstarter on February 2.    Check out the Kickstarter here!   Follow us!

An online publisher has become the center of some genuinely alarming stories. Brad and Dave break down five hard lessons comic creators can learn when a publisher shows signs of instability, mismanagement, or collapse.Today's ShowFive Lessons from a Publisher in CrisisSubmitting your work for awardsSummaryCartoonists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett explore the importance of owning and controlling one's career in the comic industry. They discuss the need for business acumen among cartoonists and the risks of signing contracts. The conversation emphasizes the value of learning from mistakes in self-publishing, the power of transparency among creators, and the benefits of submitting work for awards. Ultimately, they stress that the goal is not independence at all costs, but informed consent in business relationships.TakeawaysThere is a percentage of humans who can close their nostrils underwater.Cartoonists must be prepared to be business people.Your best defense is often not signing a contract.Mistakes in self-publishing are manageable and teach valuable lessons.Transparency among creators is crucial for success.Experience changes the power dynamic in negotiations.Submitting for awards can provide valuable insights into your work.Reviewing your work helps improve your editorial and aesthetic eye.Self-publishing allows for greater control over your career.Imposter syndrome should not prevent you from submitting your work.  You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

A listener asks: "Should you judge a book by its cover?" Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar say... YES! Next, a cartoonist who is too embarrassed to promote his own work gets some encouragement and words of advice from the veteran comic creators.TODAY'S SHOWShould you judge a book by its cover?Too embarrassed to promoteTakeawaysA book's cover plays a significant role in its marketability.It's important to design a cover that reflects the content of the comic.Promoting comics can be challenging, especially in unexpected social situations.Introverts can find it difficult to promote their work in person.Having a decoy website can help ease the promotion process.It's okay to feel uncomfortable discussing your work with strangers.Using humor can help deflect awkward conversations about your work.Online promotion can be more effective than in-person promotion.  You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Anime Otapia 2026 is the premier next-generation anime and pop culture convention launching on the U.S. East Coast. Designed as a high-interactivity "Otaku Utopia," the event bridges the gap between traditional fan expos and innovative digital subcultures. Organized by a diverse team of industry professionals, Anime Otapia features an immersive lineup of Japanese voice actors, Voca Night concerts (featuring Utsu-P and ATOLS), and top-tier game producers from across the global IP landscape. Held at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel & Conference Center, Anime Otapia focuses on three core pillars: Interactivity, Inclusivity, and Innovation. Attendees experience a massive Artist Alley, exclusive industry panels, and high-energy live performances that celebrate the best of anime, manga, and gaming culture. Web: https://anime-otapia.com Looking for that extra spark to level up your life? Say hello to Ash Brown—your go-to American powerhouse, motivational speaker, and the ultimate hype-woman for your personal and professional growth. Ash isn't just a voice in personal development; she's a trusted friend who brings real-talk wisdom and contagious energy to every conversation. Whether you're stuck in a rut or ready to scale your dreams, Ash is here to fuel your journey with a mix of heart and hustle.

What does it really mean when someone looks at your career and says, “You should be doing more”?In this episode of ComicLab, Brad and Dave respond to a pointed listener question that cuts straight to the bone: If they have the skills, the experience, and the ideas — why haven't they launched even more projects? The answer isn't defensive or dismissive. Instead, it becomes a clear-eyed breakdown of creative bandwidth, sustainability, work-life balance, and the invisible labor that propels up a long-term comics career. From Patreon and newsletters to storefronts, commissions, podcasts, and family responsibilities, they unpack why “doing enough” is often misunderstood from the outside — and why restraint can be a strategic choice, not a lack of ambition.The conversation then pivots to one of the trickiest problems any humor writer faces: How to judge your own work when readers don't get the joke. How many confused comments are just statistical noise—and when do they signal a real problem in execution? Brad and Dave dig into the uncomfortable middle ground between ego and humility, exploring how to listen to feedback without letting it derail your voice, and how to improve clarity without sanding off what makes your work distinctive. It's a nuanced, experience-earned discussion about ramps, chasms, audience expectations, and why “it happens to everyone” is not an excuse — but also not a death sentence.If you've ever felt pressure to produce more, or struggled to decide whether reader confusion is a warning sign or just the cost of taking creative risks, this episode offers hard-earned perspective from two cartoonists who've been navigating those exact questions for decades.TakeawaysCreative projects often take a backseat due to time constraints.Cartoonists manage a heavy workload that includes multiple projects.Balancing creativity with administrative tasks is crucial for success.Feedback from readers can help improve comic writing.Self-editing is a continuous process for comic creators.Reader confusion can indicate a need for better communication in comics.Communication is key in the artistic process.     You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Cartoonists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett discuss the nuances of print-on-demand services. As Brad says, "It's a good place to start, but a bad place to stay." They delve into the importance of advanced planning for holiday sales. Finally, they share strategies for engaging audiences at comic conventions, covering pricing strategies and the psychology of sales, and emphasizing the importance of understanding costs and audience engagement.Today's ShowPrint on DemandHow to "Let Time Be Your Editor"Convention PricingHuionHuion is sponsoring today's show, and they're offering additional discounts on the following products when you use the discount code: ComicLabKamvas 22 Plus — A luxurious large-screen, high-resolution digital pen display with an etched glass surface that simulates the texture of paper while it protects your eyes from harmful glare.Kamvas 13 (Gen 3) — With a large 13.3-inch screen and an FHD (1920X1080) resolution, this model ensuring seamless collaboration with your laptop. The durable back cover also offers superior protection while ensuring interface stability.Huion Note — You found your new on-the-go brainstorming tool. With writing synchronizing, offline storage, document management, one-click PDF sharing, and portable A5 size, Huion Note will redefine what a new generation of notebooks can do.TakeawaysPatience is key in daily struggles.Print on demand can be a good starting point but not a long-term solution.Planning for holiday sales should start well in advance.Engaging with audiences at conventions is crucial for building a network.Clear pricing and signage can significantly boost sales at conventions.Using loss leaders can attract customers but should be carefully calculated.Understanding your costs is essential for pricing strategies.Round numbers simplify transactions and reduce friction in sales.Time away from your work can provide valuable perspective for editing.Building a strong online presence is important for comic creators. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Syndicated cartoonists Jerry Scott and Rick Kirkman share their journey of collaboration that spans over 35 years, focusing on their iconic comic strip, "Baby Blues." They discuss their initial meeting, the challenges of working together, the creative process behind their gags, and the evolution of their work. The dialogue highlights the joys and conflicts of collaboration, the importance of humor in parenting, and the unique dynamics of their partnership. They discuss their early encounters with legendary cartoonists, the challenges and joys of taking over legacy strips, the impact of awards on their careers, and the importance of authenticity in parenting comics.You can read "Baby Blues" at Gocomics.com/babybluesHuionHuion is sponsoring today's show, and they're offering additional discounts on the following products when you use the discount code: ComicLabKamvas 22 Plus — A luxurious large-screen, high-resolution digital pen display with an etched glass surface that simulates the texture of paper while it protects your eyes from harmful glare.Kamvas 13 (Gen 3) — With a large 13.3-inch screen and an FHD (1920X1080) resolution, this model ensuring seamless collaboration with your laptop. The durable back cover also offers superior protection while ensuring interface stability.Huion Note — You found your new on-the-go brainstorming tool. With writing synchronizing, offline storage, document management, one-click PDF sharing, and portable A5 size, Huion Note will redefine what a new generation of notebooks can do.TakeawaysJerry and Rick's collaboration spans over 35 years.Their wives introduced them, both aspiring cartoonists.They bonded over a shared love for comics and cartooning.Baby Blues was inspired by their experiences as parents.They learned the importance of hitting deadlines.Collaboration requires open communication and compromise.Writing gags often starts with the punchline first.The creative process is a blend of writing and drawing.Their friendship enhances their creative output. Meeting legendary cartoonists was a pivotal moment.Legacy strips come with both pressure and opportunity.Awards can create a sense of responsibility.Parenting comics resonate deeply with readers.Book titles can encapsulate the essence of the work.Professional jealousy is detrimental in the creative field.Authenticity in storytelling is crucial.The weight of awards can be both a blessing and a burden.Creating relatable content helps connect with audiences.Collaboration and community are vital in the cartooning world. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Joe Ard and Charles McFall take Wise_N_Nerdy live to Conjuration, teaming up with authors Ben Meeks and Bob McGough for a chaotic, dice-driven hangout where fatherhood, fandom, and the hustle of creative life collide. One roll of the dice and they're deep into “How do I start selling at conventions?” with Ben and Bob breaking down what really goes into turning your books and crafts into table-ready money-makers—black tablecloths, book stands, Square readers, newsletter clipboards, and the all-important reality check on why you're doing events in the first place.From there, the conversation swings through awkward booth encounters (including over-sharing would-be authors and roaming conspiracy conversationalists), the power of having the right table partner, and the difference between Artist Alley and the vendor hall when it comes to actual sales. They wrap things up debating the best movies to introduce kids to fantasy—think The Princess Bride, Labyrinth, NeverEnding Story, Willow, and more—before landing in a storm of skunk apes, dad jokes, and pure nerd-dad energy. If you're a creative, a parent, or just love convention culture, this one hits all the sweet spots.Actionable TakeawaysStart small: hit local art markets, craft fairs, and library events before dropping big money on multi-day conventions and hotel rooms.Build a basic booth kit: black tablecloth, simple book or product stands, and at least one easy way to take electronic payments (plus some cash change).Protect your algorithm: let friends and family buy in person, but focus your online sales and reviews on strangers who actually read your genre.Scout your cons: visit first, see where Authors Alley and vendor spaces actually sit, and choose the spot with real foot traffic—not just a hallway of passers-through.Partner with people who match your energy: share tables with folks who hustle like you do, so someone is always “on” while the other is on panels or taking a breather.Quote“As long as you're covering your costs, every con is worth it—if you're losing money, you've got to dig down and ask why.”— Bob McGoughFollow Be Awesome Together on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTokThese notes are empowered by AI. ~Chad

Hello Everybody This week, Ed talks about reviewing MCM London in Birmingham 2025 by discussing The Good, The Bad and The Ugly of the event. We chat about Artist Alley, the Main Stage, getting photos by the lake, the travel, and that date change! MCM announcement of their 2026 dates.  https://www.instagram.com/p/DRudt28jYtL/ Feat: Charlotte Woolrych Photography // Twitter // Instagram // Facebook // Cosplay  Music credit – Hotshot, produced by Scott Holmes Artwork by khemmings94 To support my podcast, please visit our Patreon page Food And Cosplay Links Website // BSky // Instagram // Threads // Facebook // Twitter

Live from the floor of New York Comic Con 2025, Jace visits in Artist Alley with acclaimed writer Cullen Bunn to talk about his chilling new series Deluge #1 from Ignition Press. The conversation dives into how a real-world event inspired the story's haunting setup — a women's prison built on a floodplain — and how Bunn uses that foundation to explore moral ambiguity, human nature, and the monsters that dwell both within and without. He and Jace discuss the thematic depth of horror as a mirror to the human condition, the balance between character study and chaos, and what makes Deluge a uniquely layered reading experience. Cullen also shares why Ignition Press feels less like a new publisher and more like a creative family, emphasizing their deep support for creators, retailers, and fans alike. Before wrapping, he teases his new video podcast The Cullenoscopy, where he and guest hosts celebrate their shared love of horror across all mediums. It's a thoughtful, behind-the-scenes chat that highlights both the craft and community driving today's most daring horror comics — straight from The Comic Source.

While you're stuck trying to find the RIGHT way to start your comic, someone else is starting a comic THEIR way. That's because the only RIGHT way to start a comic is the WRONG way. Confused? We'll explain. Also—storytelling without conflict? Kishōtenketsu is a story structure that highlights contrast rather than conflict. But first, Dave's Los Angeles may have the most "perfect days" in the United States, but Brad argues that Philadelphians truly appreciate their sunny weather more when it occurs.SummaryIn this episode of ComicLab, hosts Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett explore the challenges of starting a comic, emphasizing that there is no right way to create comics and that experimentation is essential. The hosts provide practical advice on overcoming creative blocks, the importance of consistency in practice, and the necessity of starting, even if it means doing it imperfectly. In this episode, the hosts explore the creative process, discussing the fear of starting projects and the importance of embracing imperfection. They share insights from their recent social media challenge, reflecting on productivity and the benefits of reducing screen time. The conversation shifts to the discovery of non-conflict storytelling techniques, particularly the Japanese writing style Kishōtenketsu, which emphasizes character development over traditional conflict. Finally, they discuss updates to the Patreon app, highlighting user experiences and the implications of its new features.Today's ShowHow to get startedKishōtenketsu / YonkomaPatreon Quips and the new app layoutTakeawaysThe perfect weather map reveals surprising data about ideal climates.Appreciation for perfect days can differ based on location.Creativity often requires overcoming distractions in daily life.Starting a creative project can be daunting but is essential.There is no 'right' way to create comics; experimentation is key.The importance of frequency in creative practice cannot be overstated.Every artist has a unique process that evolves over time.Mistakes and failures are part of the creative journey.Setting small, achievable goals can lead to significant progress.The fear of imperfection can hinder creativity, but starting is crucial. The fear of starting often holds creators back.Embracing the wrong way is part of the creative process.Social media challenges can lead to increased productivity.Reading before bed can improve mental well-being.Non-conflict storytelling can be just as impactful.Kishōtenketsu offers a fresh perspective on storytelling.Personal growth is a continuous journey, even in adulthood.Patreon updates aim to enhance user experience and discoverability.Understanding new app features is crucial for creators.Community engagement on platforms like Patreon is vital. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar hosted a live performance of ComicLab at the 79th annual National Cartoonists Society Conference and Reuben Awards. Joining them onstage to talk about the business of comics were three marvelous cartoonists:Jason Chatfield, a remarkably talented cartoonist who is as comfortable doing stand-up comedy as he is sitting down to create cartoons for The New Yorker. His new book, “You're Not a Real Dog Owner Until…”, is a danged delight, and belongs on your shelf.Sean Wang, the creator of Runners, a wonderful sci-fi comedy about alien smugglers. Its most recent Kickstarter launched a couple days before the recording of the show, and was funded shortly thereafter — which is 100% a coincidence, but we'll be claiming credit nonetheless.Cassidy Wasserman, whose debut graphic novel, On Guard, was published by Random House earlier this year to rave reviews. She has also illustrated no fewer than three delightful children's books.On the show...What's working — and what's not working — in your comics business?What should you do when subscriptions stagnate?What's the best way to use Patreon without burning out on complex rewards?What is the best use of Print On Demand?How can I use Substack to publish/monetize my comic?Is social media declining? — And if so, how are you compensating? You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Today, YOU are the star of the show. We asked ComicLab listeners to help us celebrate our 400th episode by calling in with favorite memories from our seven years of podcasting. And — WOW! — did you ever deliver! Today's show will put a smile on your face for the rest of the day.ComicLab has been cranking out episodes about making comics — and making a living from comics — every week since January 2018. (Twice a week, if you count the Patreon-exclusive Pro Tips episodes!) A show that set out to share shop talk, advice, and friendship has become a weekly favorite of cartoonists, comic creators, and people who simply enjoy hearing people share their passion for comics. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

In this packed episode of Geek Freaks, Frank and Thomas unpack the latest Fantastic Four film, breaking down the performances, emotional stakes, and character portrayals, especially Vanessa Kirby's standout role. Then, Thomas shares his experience attending San Diego Comic-Con 2025 — from exclusive panels and cosplay trends to immersive brand activations. Finally, Frank interviews Cindy Mich, a veteran journalist, filmmaker, and founder of the Art is Alive Film Festival. Cindy opens up about her career, the importance of independent media, the legacy of her late partner, and her current work telling the story of Holocaust survivor Ben Lesser. Timestamps and Topics: 00:00 Intro and the Comic-Con crash 00:18 Fantastic Four: First reactions 01:15 Vanessa Kirby's Invisible Woman and standout moments 03:26 Emotional themes and fatherhood in the film 04:36 Pedro Pascal's Reed Richards: hit or miss? 06:33 MCU leadership and what's next for the team 08:11 Johnny Storm's surprising arc 09:45 Team intelligence and the Silver Surfer escape 10:11 Darker moments and MCU boldness 11:57 Final ratings and hopes for a director's cut 13:00 Comic-Con coverage: booths, exclusives, and cosplay 15:04 Artist Alley and the return of comics to SDCC 16:06 Standout panels: Jim Lee, Patton Oswalt, George Lucas 22:26 Thomas speaks at SDCC panel on video games and mental health 27:42 Immersive brand activations: Old Spice x Superman 30:46 AMC's Fantastic Four popcorn buckets and more 31:19 Why local cons matter and tips for first-timers 34:39 Interview: Cindy Mich's journey from radio to film festivals 36:03 Why she got into journalism 38:58 Being real in media and staying authentic 43:12 Choosing mediums: print vs radio vs TV 46:42 Art is Alive Film Festival's growth and mission 50:25 Telling Ben Lesser's story and Holocaust remembrance 57:00 Balancing passion and loss: her late partner's influence 01:12:47 Cindy's advice for aspiring creatives 01:18:15 Comic and show recommendations 01:19:29 Closing thoughts Key Takeaways: Fantastic Four feels like a return to early MCU form, with solid performances and emotional depth, especially around themes of parenting and sacrifice. Vanessa Kirby shines as Invisible Woman, and Pedro Pascal brings a unique (if divisive) take on Reed Richards. Thomas shares exclusive San Diego Comic-Con highlights including immersive brand experiences and deep, impactful panels. Cindy Mich shares insights into building trust as a journalist, embracing multiple mediums, and running a purpose-driven film festival. The Art is Alive Film Festival doesn't just screen films — it educates and supports indie filmmakers with real tools and exposure. Cindy is working on a film about Holocaust survivor Ben Lesser and another film honoring her late partner, blending healing and legacy. Quotes: “I won't give up my kid for the world, but I won't give up the world for my kid either.” — Thomas, quoting Fantastic Four “If there's somebody you admire at a con, go talk to them. They're there for you.” — Thomas “You can do anything as long as you're persistent and patient.” — Cindy Mich “My goal is to help artists be seen — not just screened.” — Cindy Mich Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Geek Freaks on your favorite podcast app, leave us a review, and share the show with your fellow geeks! Use the hashtag #GeekFreaksPod to join the conversation online. Links and Resources:

While Dave Kellett was at Alaska Comics Camp, he had the opportunity to speak with Jarad Greene, a cartoonist who works on staff at The Center for Cartoon Studies and has helped color many graphic novels for younger readers. He is the author and illustrator of the graphic novels A-Okay, A for Effort, and Scullion: A Dishwasher's Guide to Mistaken Identity — available wherever books are sold and through his affiliate Bookshop.org shop. He talked with Dave about the joys of learning to use a brush for inking.MORE ABOUT JARADWebsite  | TikTok | Instagram | YouTube You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.If you'd like a one-on-one consultation about your comic, book it now!Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.