Advertise on podcast: The United States Department of Nerds Podcast

Three creators. Five years. One wonderfully twisted nightmare. The Council of Nerds welcomes back writers and co-creators E.B. Kogan and Jessica Silvetti, alongside illustrator Giuseppe “Sabè” Di Stefano, to celebrate the completion of Shockheaded Peter #1-3: The Complete Graphic Novel. Inspired by Heinrich Hoffmann's disturbing cautionary tales, Shockheaded Peter takes readers into the mysterious town of Winding Springs, where Ruby, a young girl born with a literal broken heart, encounters a world of grotesque punishments, complicated morality, and haunting beauty. In this special reunion, The Chairman sits down with the entire creative team to explore the five-year journey behind one of his favorite independent comics. Ethan and Jessica reflect on the evolution of their story, the emotional complexity of Ruby and Peter, and how their filmmaking backgrounds influenced their approach to creating a graphic novel. Sabè shares his artistic growth across hundreds of illustrated pages, his personal connection to Ruby, and the architectural details that helped transform Winding Springs into a living, breathing world. Together, the creators discuss the importance of creative trust, the challenges of completing an independent comic, and the responsibility of delivering a satisfying conclusion. And when The Chairman asks whether this truly marks the end of Shockheaded Peter, the team reveals that they have ideas for additional stories waiting beyond the final chapter. The conversation also explores the Kickstarter campaign for the complete graphic novel, including its collector's slipcase, signed bookplates, and special rewards. It's a celebration of independent storytelling, artistic collaboration, and the people who dedicate years of their lives to bringing extraordinary stories into the world. 📖 SUPPORT SHOCKHEADED PETER Kickstarter:https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ebkogan/shockheaded-peter-1-3-the-complete-graphic-novel?ref=creator_tab Official Website:https://www.shockheadedpetercomic.com/ 🎨 CONNECT WITH THE CREATORS E.B. KoganWebsite: https://www.ebkogan.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ebkfromla/ Jessica SilvettiWebsite: https://www.jessicasilvetti.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jess_silvetti/ Giuseppe “Sabè” Di StefanoInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/sabe_89_art/ 🎙️ ABOUT THE USDN PODCAST Welcome to the United States Department of Nerds, where we are for the people, by the people, and of the people. Hosted by The Chairman, the USDN Podcast goes beyond promoting comic books to tell the stories of the people creating them. Through in-depth interviews, we explore independent creators' personal journeys, artistic choices, challenges, and the determination required to bring original stories to life. Our mission is to give independent and creator-owned comics, and the writers, artists, letterers, and publishers behind them, the attention and respect they deserve. Join the Council of Nerds and discover the people behind your next favorite comic. USDN Links:https://linktr.ee/USDNPodcast 📧 BUSINESS & MEDIA INQUIRIES For interview requests, media inquiries, convention coverage, collaborations, and professional opportunities, contact The Chairman: [email protected] 📦 SUPPORT USDN WITH BCW SUPPLIES Protect your comic collection while supporting USDN. Shop BCW Supplies:https://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=usdn Discount Code: USDN Affiliate disclosure: USDN may earn a commission from qualifying purchases through our affiliate link. The USDN Podcast - Where indie comics come to life.

A Knight’s Title reaches its 50th episode! Independent sci-fi fantasy author Russell Michael Berger returns to the United States Department of Nerds Podcast to celebrate Season 9, discuss self-publishing and worldbuilding, and preview his upcoming Halloween spin-off, Souls of the Dying Star. Nine seasons. Fifty episodes. One independently created universe. Russell Michael Berger returns to the Council of Nerds for a conversation about the journey behind A Knight’s Title, his original science fiction and fantasy series, and what it takes to sustain an independent creative project across nine seasons. From the earliest episodes to reaching Episode 50, Russell joins The Chairman to discuss the challenges of independent publishing, the evolution of his storytelling, developing original characters, and expanding the Armory universe. We explore the lessons Russell has learned as a writer, the importance of consistency, how reader feedback influences his work, and the creative decisions behind Season 9. SOULS OF THE DYING STAR - A HALLOWEEN SPIN-OFF Russell also takes us inside Souls of the Dying Star, his new sci-fi fantasy spin-off arriving October 31. A blaze burns. A father fades. Two souls defy destiny. Jai and Kalsey Walker search the stars for the God's Stone, a mysterious relic capable of reshaping reality. But Imperius Admiral G.B. Vector is closing in, and the Dying Star threatens everything. We discuss the special's characters, conflicts, alternate-universe storytelling, and how expanding a fictional universe allows independent creators to explore new stories beyond their main series. INDEPENDENT PUBLISHING, WRITING & WORLDBUILDING Beyond the milestone, Russell and The Chairman explore the creative process behind long-running fantasy fiction, writing without a predetermined ending, comic book influences, manga's impact on modern storytelling, and what independent creators can learn from established franchises. This episode celebrates more than a number. It's a conversation about creative persistence, original storytelling, and what happens when an independent creator keeps building. ⚔️ TOPICS COVERED • Celebrating 50 episodes of A Knight’s Title• Russell Michael Berger's independent publishing journey• Season 9 and the significance of Episode 50• Maintaining consistency across a long-running series• Self-publishing and independent storytelling• Developing characters and expanding fictional worlds• Reader feedback and creative growth• Souls of the Dying Star Halloween special• Jai and Kalsey Walker• The God's Stone and Imperius Admiral G.B. Vector• Alternate universes and spin-off storytelling• Expanding the Armory universe• Writing without knowing the ending• Comic book influences and creative inspiration• Manga and modern storytelling• What's next for A Knight’s Title 🔗 CONNECT WITH RUSSELL MICHAEL BERGER Website: https://www.aknightstitle.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/KingDarkhart Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KingDarkhart?mibextid=LQQJ4d Linktree: http://linktr.ee/kingdarkhart 🔗 CONNECT WITH USDN YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@USDN_Podcast Everything USDN: https://linktr.ee/usdn_podcast Join the Council of Nerds: https://www.facebook.com/groups/usdnpodcast 📩 BUSINESS / MEDIA INQUIRIES [email protected] 📦 SUPPORT USDN - BCW SUPPLIES Protect your comics, cards, collectibles, and more with BCW Supplies. Shop BCW: https://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=usdn Use code USDN when you shop. Affiliate Disclosure: The United States Department of Nerds participates in the BCW Supplies affiliate program. Purchases made through our affiliate link may earn USDN a commission at no additional cost to you. 🎙️ JOIN THE COUNCIL OF NERDS Follow the United States Department of Nerds Podcast for independent comic creator interviews, publisher conversations, crowdfunding projects, convention coverage, and stories from across the creator-owned comics community. Welcome to the United States Department of Nerds, where we are for the people, by the people, and of the people. The USDN Podcast - Where Indie Comics Come to Life. #AKnightsTitle #RussellBerger #SoulsOfTheDyingStar #IndieAuthor #SciFiFantasy #SelfPublishing #Worldbuilding #IndieComics #CreatorOwned #USDNPodcast

Thomas Skelton has spent years building the mythology, music, characters, and cosmic world behind The Last Saijin. In this episode of the United States Department of Nerds Podcast, The Chairman sits down with Thomas to explore the story of Sai and Jin, two brothers connected to a much larger conflict involving gods, destiny, and the balance of the universe. Thomas explains what a Saijin is, the meaning behind the name, and how concepts including Saijin Force, karma, balance, and time became foundations of the mythology. The conversation also explores the creative influences behind The Last Saijin, including Dragon Ball, Star Wars, Invincible, Japanese manga, anime, and American comics, and how Thomas works to transform those influences into an original universe of his own. But The Last Saijin didn't begin as a comic. It began with music. Thomas takes us back to StrawberryMoon, formerly known as Auspicious, and the ambitious science-fiction concept that helped create the lore that eventually became The Last Saijin. Now that relationship has started working in reverse—the music inspired the comic, and the comic is beginning to inspire new music. We also discuss Thomas's experience as an independent musician, what those years taught him about creating and promoting independent work, and his vision for Last Leg Entertainment as a place where creators can collaborate while maintaining ownership of their work. Finally, Thomas discusses putting The Last Saijin into readers' hands, its physical and digital releases, what comes next for Sai and Jin, and the future of the universe he's building. Read & Follow The Last Saijin Official Site:https://www.thelastsaijinhq.com/ GlobalComix:https://globalcomix.com/c/the-last-saijin-1 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/thelastsaijinhq/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61566852425747 Protect Your Collection With BCW Supplies Shop BCW Supplies:https://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=usdn Use code USDN for 10% off your order. Affiliate Disclosure: USDN may earn a small commission if you use our affiliate link or code. This helps support the show at no extra cost to you. Follow the USDN Podcast https://linktr.ee/USDN_Podcast The USDN Podcast - Where Indie Comics Come to Life.

Michael Tivey's work has helped shape the visual identity of stories across Image Comics, DC Comics, professional wrestling, music, theater, and motorsports. In this episode of The USDN Podcast, The Chairman sits down with graphic designer Michael Tivey to discuss the craft of comic-book design, his longtime creative relationship with writer Chris Condon, and a career that has taken him from the pages of Image and DC Comics to the world of professional wrestling. Michael's comics work includes That Texas Blood, The Enfield Gang Massacre, News from the Fallout, and Of the Earth for Image Comics, along with The Peril of the Brutal Dark: An Ezra Cain Mystery for DC Comics. We go beyond the credits page to explore what a graphic designer actually contributes to a comic book, how design becomes part of storytelling, and how Michael finds a unique visual identity for projects that can look and feel completely different from one another. We take a deeper look at News from the Fallout and its extraordinary world-building. Set against the backdrop of 1962, the experience extends beyond the pages through an in-universe Department of Defense portal and interactive elements designed to bring readers inside the story. Michael also discusses his longtime friendship and creative collaboration with Chris Condon, how that relationship eventually brought him into comics, and his journey from early work on That Texas Blood and The Enfield Gang Massacre to News from the Fallout and Of the Earth. Then we're leaving the comic shop and stepping into the squared circle. Michael serves as Co-Producer and Lead Designer of AEW Presents The Last Match: A Pro-Wrestling Rock Experience, helping build the visual identity of an entire fictional wrestling world, including its championship titles. With experience spanning AEW, WWE, comics, music, theater, and motorsports, Michael explains what moving between completely different creative industries has taught him about visual storytelling and how those experiences influence his work. Most importantly for the Council, we bring those lessons back to independent comics. When should an indie creator start thinking about design? What separates a comic that simply looks finished from one that feels professional? And when money is limited, where should independent creators focus their resources? Because great comic-book storytelling doesn't stop at the edge of the panel. Sometimes the work you barely notice is the work making you believe in the world. 🎨 MICHAEL TIVEY 🌐 Portfolio: http://tiveyart.com 📸 Instagram: http://instagram.com/tivey_art 🦋 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/tivey.bsky.social 📚 Image Comics: https://imagecomics.com/creators/michael-tivey 🤼 AEW PRESENTS THE LAST MATCH: A PRO-WRESTLING ROCK EXPERIENCE 🌐 Official Site: https://www.thelastmatch.com/ 📦 PROTECT YOUR COLLECTION WITH BCW SUPPLIES Shop BCW Supplies: https://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=usdn Use code USDN for 10% off your order. Affiliate Disclosure: USDN may earn a small commission if you use our affiliate link or code. This helps support the show at no extra cost to you. 🎙️ ABOUT THE USDN PODCAST The USDN Podcast puts independent comic creators, writers, artists, publishers, and storytellers in front of the Council to discuss the stories, craft, challenges, and people behind creator-owned comics. 🔗 Follow The USDN Podcast: https://linktr.ee/USDN_Podcast 📧 Contact: [email protected] The USDN Podcast - Where Indie Comics Come to Life.

Comic creator Tommy Huls joins The Chairman on the United States Department of Nerds Podcast to discuss Kingsville, World at War Comics, independent comics, creator-owned publishing, and crowdfunding. Tommy Huls has spent years interviewing comic creators through World at War Comics. Now, the interviewer becomes the interviewee as Tommy takes us inside the creation and evolution of Kingsville. Kingsville is a superhero comic built around global power, political conflict, and Sycodone, a rare resource capable of making superhuman abilities possible. As the Alliance for Global Safety grows in influence, the small nation of Kingsville controls the resource everyone wants. What begins as cooperation becomes a struggle over power, security, sovereignty, and control. Tommy takes us inside the creation and evolution of Kingsville, Rodrigo's moral conflict within AGS, lessons learned producing his own comic book, and why Kingsville Issue #1 entered a new stage with Critical Entertainment. We also turn the microphone around on one of indie comics' most prolific interviewers. Through World at War Comics, Tommy has spent hundreds of episodes speaking with independent comic creators, writers, artists, publishers, industry veterans, and some of the biggest names in comics. We discuss what those conversations taught him about building something that lasts and how becoming a comic creator changed the way he interviews other creators. The conversation also explores the realities facing independent comics, including crowdfunding, comic book distribution, reaching new readers, working with comic shops, and why great creator-owned comics can still struggle to find an audience. At the time of this interview, Kingsville Issue #1 was in the final stretch of its Kickstarter campaign. That campaign has now concluded, but the conversation provides an inside look at the artwork, covers, rewards, crowdfunding strategy, and what reader support could make possible for the future of the series. The interviewer became the creator. Now the microphone turns around. Topics Covered • The creation and evolution of Kingsville • Tommy Huls and World at War Comics • The origins of Sycodone and the Alliance for Global Safety • Rodrigo and the moral conflict inside AGS • Creating and publishing independent comics • Comic book lettering and production • Crowdfunding and Kickstarter comics • Kingsville Issue #1 and its Kickstarter campaign • Kingsville and Critical Entertainment • Lessons from hundreds of comic creator interviews • Becoming a comic creator after years as an interviewer • Building relationships in the comic book industry • Reaching readers with independent comics • Comic shops and comic book distribution • Creator-owned comics and independent publishing • The future of Kingsville Follow World at War Comics 🌎 https://linktr.ee/Worldatwarcomics The Kingsville Issue #1 Kickstarter discussed during this interview has concluded. Follow the United States Department of NerdsKeep up with USDN interviews, indie comic coverage, new episodes, convention coverage, and everything happening before the Council: https://linktr.ee/usdnpodcast 📧 Business & Media Inquiries: [email protected] Protect Your Collection with BCW Supplies Need bags, boards, boxes, storage, or other supplies for your comic collection? Support USDN while protecting your collection through our direct BCW affiliate link: https://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=usdn Use code USDN at checkout to SAVE 10%. Affiliate Disclosure: USDN may earn a small commission if you use our affiliate link or code. This helps support the show at no extra cost to you. About the USDN Podcast The United States Department of Nerds Podcast puts independent creators where they belong, at the center of the conversation. Creator-owned comics. Independent publishing. Crowdfunding. Behind-the-scenes stories from the people actually making the books. The USDN Podcast - Where Indie Comics Come to Life

The dead don't always stay buried. Lucky Devil Comics returns to the United States Department of Nerds Podcast as Styles and Nicky join The Chairman before the Council for the next chapter of THE PLAGUE. When Lucky Devil Comics first joined USDN, THE PLAGUE #1: ILL FATE was a make-or-break independent comic fighting for the chance to exist. Now, Ill Fate is in readers' hands, THE PLAGUE has reached a new audience through GlobalComix, Lucky Devil Comics is taking the book directly to readers at conventions, and Issue #2 is already moving through production. This time, we're looking at what happens after you make the comic. Styles and Nicky discuss the response to Ill Fate, what readers understood about Diego that surprised them, lessons learned from producing their first issue, and how that experience is shaping Issue #2. We also dig into: ⚰️ What happened after THE PLAGUE #1: ILL FATE was released 💀 The moment Lucky Devil realized readers genuinely wanted more 🩸 What readers connected with beyond the blood, action, and revenge 🔥 Why reader demand brought the idea of a black-and-white edition back to life 📖 Bringing THE PLAGUE to GlobalComix and reaching a new digital audience 💼 The business realities of creating, marketing, and selling independent comics 💥 What conventions have taught Lucky Devil about reaching readers face-to-face ⚙️ Building an ecosystem around crowdfunding, direct sales, conventions, and digital distribution 🪦 Where THE PLAGUE #2 stands in production and where Diego's story goes next 😈 Why Issue #2 can become more visceral, brutal, and action-heavy now that the world has been established 🔮 The long-term future of THE PLAGUE and Lucky Devil Comics Issue #2 picks up with Diego still trying to understand what has happened to him and what he's capable of. As his personal vendetta continues, the larger conflict begins forcing him to confront the difference between revenge and becoming something closer to the hero others may need him to be. Lucky Devil Comics came before the Council the first time with a comic fighting for its chance to exist. This time, they came back with a next chapter. THE PLAGUE RETURNS. 🔥 SUPPORT & FOLLOW LUCKY DEVIL COMICS 🌐 Official Store: https://luckydevilstore.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luckydevilcomicsofficial/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LuckyDevilComics 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luckydevilcomics 🐦 X / Twitter: @LuckyDevilCmcs THE PLAGUE is also available digitally through GlobalComix. FOLLOW THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF NERDS Keep up with USDN interviews, indie comic coverage, new episodes, convention coverage, and everything happening before the Council: https://linktr.ee/usdnpodcast 🛡️ PROTECT YOUR COLLECTION WITH BCW SUPPLIES Need bags, boards, boxes, storage, or other supplies for your comic collection? Support USDN while protecting your collection through our direct BCW affiliate link: https://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=usdn Use code USDN at checkout to SAVE 10%. Affiliate Disclosure: USDN may earn a small commission if you use our affiliate link or code. This helps support the show at no extra cost to you. 🎙️ ABOUT THE USDN PODCAST The United States Department of Nerds Podcast puts independent creators where they belong, at the center of the conversation. Creator-owned comics. Independent publishing. Crowdfunding. Behind-the-scenes stories from the people actually making the books. THE USDN PODCAST - WHERE INDIE COMICS COME TO LIFE #ThePlague #LuckyDevilComics #IndieComics #HorrorComics #ComicBooks #GlobalComix #USDNPodcast

The universe is a dirty place, and somebody has to clean it up. Comic creator Jim Whiting joins The Chairman on the United States Department of Nerds Podcast to discuss Margo Intergalactic Trash Collector: Apocalypse in Pink, the new 112-page collected edition celebrating eleven years of Margo's independent comic-book adventures. From Margo's origins more than two decades ago to Kickstarter, the direct market, creator-owned publishing, and an all-new series planned for 2027, Jim takes us inside the evolution of Margo and the realities of building independent comics across more than four decades in the industry. 🚀 SUPPORT MARGO INTERGALACTIC TRASH COLLECTOR: APOCALYPSE IN PINK The Kickstarter launches September 8, 2026. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/whiting/margo-intergalactic-trash-collector-returns Margo Intergalactic Trash Collector follows an overworked, underpaid intergalactic trash collector whose routine assignments have a habit of turning into universe-threatening disasters. Apocalypse in Pink brings Margo's early adventures together in a 112-page, 6 x 9-inch trade paperback, along with character personnel files, ship schematics, alternative covers, behind-the-scenes material, and artwork from Joe Sinnott, Joe Staton, Rich Clark, and Marcelo Trom. Jim Whiting has spent more than four decades working as an illustrator, cartoonist, designer, publisher, letterer, colorist, and production artist. His creator-owned work includes Margo Intergalactic Trash Collector, SCAB, Shriek, and Lady Dracula, with a career spanning horror, science fiction, comedy, adventure, and independent publishing. TOPICS COVERED • The creation and evolution of Margo Intergalactic Trash Collector• Building the larger Margo universe• Silver Age comic-book influences• Margo's journey from Kickstarter to the direct market• Margo Intergalactic Trash Collector: Apocalypse in Pink• Keeping creator-owned comics in print• More than four decades working in comics and publishing• Working with Joe Sinnott and Joe Staton• Kickstarter and independent comics in 2015 vs. 2026• Building and nurturing an audience for crowdfunding• Kickstarter and traditional comic-book distribution• Source Point Press / Prana distribution• Independent comic publishing and production• The future of Margo Intergalactic Trash Collector• The all-new Margo series planned for 2027 FOLLOW JIM WHITING / WHITING STUDIO 🌐 Websitehttps://whitingstudio.com/ 🚀 Kickstarterhttps://www.kickstarter.com/projects/whiting/margo-intergalactic-trash-collector-returns 📰 Substackhttps://substack.com/@whitingstudio 📸 Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/whitingstudioart/ 📘 Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/james.whiting.313244/ PROTECT YOUR COLLECTION WITH BCW SUPPLIES USDN is a BCW Supplies Affiliate. Shop BCW Supplies:https://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=usdn Use code USDN at checkout to save 10%. As a BCW Supplies Affiliate, USDN may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through our affiliate link at no additional cost to you. SUPPORT THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF NERDS Subscribe, follow, and keep up with everything happening at USDN: https://linktr.ee/usdnpodcast Every subscription, share, comment, and follow helps us continue spotlighting incredible creators and keeping independent comics alive and thriving. The USDN Podcast - Where Indie Comics Come to Life. #MargoIntergalacticTrashCollector #ApocalypseInPink #JimWhiting #WhitingStudio #IndieComics #IndependentComics #CreatorOwnedComics #KickstarterComics #ComicBooks #Crowdfunding #SciFiComics #USDNPodcast

How human are you when your body can be replaced? Australian comic creator Stephen Kok of SigmaTestudio joins The USDN Podcast for an in-depth conversation about TRANSHUMAN Vol. 4: Betrayal, human augmentation, comic book lettering, crowdfunding, and the realities of creating independent comics. At the center of TRANSHUMAN is Rivka, a former soldier living in a world where technology can repair, augment, and increasingly replace the human body. But if our bodies can be replaced piece by piece, what actually makes us human? Stephen takes us inside the philosophy and science fiction behind TRANSHUMAN, Rivka's evolution across four volumes, and what Volume 4: Betrayal means for the next chapter of her story. We also go deep into Stephen's work as a professional comic book letterer. In an extended discussion on the art and psychology of lettering, Stephen breaks down how word balloons guide a reader's eye, how lettering affects pacing and storytelling, why placement matters, and how great lettering becomes an invisible part of the comic-book reading experience. Stephen also shares lessons from more than a decade of independent comics, Kickstarter fulfillment, building trust with crowdfunding backers, measuring campaign success by readers instead of dollars, and why creators need to stop waiting and start making their work. FOLLOW STEPHEN KOK / SIGMATESTUDIO Website: https://sigmatestudio.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sigmatestudio Instagram - @eskay8888: https://www.instagram.com/eskay8888/ Kickstarter - TRANSHUMAN Vol. 1-4: Betrayal: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1917428739/transhuman-vol-1-to-4-betrayal-sci-fi PROTECT YOUR COLLECTION WITH BCW SUPPLIES Looking for comic book bags, boards, boxes, storage, and other supplies to protect your collection? USDN is a BCW Supplies Affiliate. When you shop through our affiliate link or use code USDN, your purchase helps support The United States Department of Nerds at no additional cost to you. Shop BCW Supplies: https://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=usdn Affiliate Code: USDN As a BCW Supplies Affiliate, USDN may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through our affiliate link or code. SUPPORT THE UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF NERDS The USDN Podcast puts independent comic creators, writers, artists, publishers, and creator-owned comics in the spotlight. Subscribe or follow the show wherever you listen to podcasts and join the Council of Nerds. Find USDN everywhere: https://linktr.ee/usdn_podcast The USDN Podcast - Where Indie Comics Come to Life.

Christopher Reda joins the USDN Podcast to discuss the growth of Critical Entertainment, expanding into comic shops across the United States and Canada through Universal Distribution, the creation of the Indie Comic Alliance, the Zombie Zero Deluxe Hardcover campaign, Patriot Comic Books, K-Toon Studios, and the future of independent publishing. From building a catalog of original comics to creating new opportunities for independent publishers and reaching readers through retail, crowdfunding, and new publishing imprints, Christopher shares what it takes to grow an independent comic book company while maintaining its creative identity. In this episode, we explore Critical Entertainment's move into wider distribution, the mission behind the Indie Comic Alliance, bringing the complete Zombie Zero series to hardcover through Zoop, adapting films into graphic novels through Patriot Comic Books, bringing K-Comics to English-speaking audiences through K-Toon Studios, and what's next for Critical Entertainment. Topics Covered: • Christopher Reda and Critical Entertainment• Expanding into comic shops through Universal Distribution• The creation and mission of the Indie Comic Alliance• Zombie Zero Deluxe Hardcover Edition• Crowdfunding through Zoop• Taking Zombie Zero beyond comics• Patriot Comic Books• Adapting Blackout and God Is a Bullet from film to comics• K-Toon Studios and bringing K-Comics to new audiences• Building and growing an independent comic publisher• What's next for Critical Entertainment Support Zombie Zero - Deluxe Hardcover Edition:https://zoop.gg/c/zombiezero Visit Critical Entertainment:https://www.criticalentertainmentla.com/ Explore the Indie Comic Alliance:https://indiecomicalliance.com/ Visit Patriot Comic Books:https://www.patriotcomicbooks.com/ Follow Critical Entertainment: Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/criticalentertainment Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/criticalentertainment 🎙️ SUBSCRIBE & JOIN THE COUNCIL OF NERDS Stay connected with the USDN Podcast for more interviews with independent comic creators, writers, artists, publishers, and storytellers. 🌐 Connect with the USDN Podcast:https://linktr.ee/USDN_Podcast 📧 Business & Media Inquiries:[email protected] 📦 Protect Your Collection with BCW Supplies:https://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=USDN Use code USDN at checkout. Affiliate Disclosure: We may earn a commission from purchases made through our BCW affiliate link. The USDN Podcast - Where Indie Comics Come to Life.

One hero was only the beginning. Lo Plater, creator, writer, and founder of Dark City Comics & Multimedia, returns to the Council of Nerds to discuss E.P.I.C. #2: ARISE ALPHAS - Part 1 and the expansion of the Dark City Universe. When Lo first joined USDN, we introduced Chris Tayborne, a young archaeology student transformed by the ancient cosmic technology known as the Alpha Bands. Since then, E.P.I.C. #1 has gone from Kickstarter campaign to fulfilled comic, giving Lo firsthand experience with the realities of producing, crowdfunding, and delivering an independent comic. Now the story is getting much bigger. The activation of the Alpha Bands has awakened the mysterious Alpha Strand, triggering the emergence of super-powered Alpha Humans around the world. Some will become heroes. Some will become villains. Others will fall somewhere in between. Lo takes us inside the mythology behind the Alpha Strand, how Chris responds to discovering that his transformation wasn't an isolated event, and why building the Dark City Universe means creating a world that extends far beyond E.P.I.C. himself. We also get into the realities of independent comic publishing: Kickstarter fulfillment, unexpected shipping costs, communicating with backers, building the right creative team, planning rewards, printing and distribution, direct-to-consumer relationships, supporting fellow indie creators, and why Lo believes creators are ambassadors for independent comics. With multiple characters and projects already being developed across the Dark City Universe, ARISE ALPHAS - Part 1 represents the next step toward the larger world Lo envisioned when he first entered the Council. E.P.I.C. #2: ARISE ALPHAS - Part 1 heads to Kickstarter in September 2026. 🚀 Follow the E.P.I.C. #2 Kickstarter:https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/darkcitycomics/epic-2-arise-alphas-part-1?ref=23uxfb 🌆 Dark City Comics & Multimedia:http://www.darkcitychq.com Find everything USDN:https://linktr.ee/usdnpodcast 📚 Support USDN through BCW Supplies:https://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=usdn Use code: USDN Affiliate Disclosure: USDN may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through our BCW affiliate link at no additional cost to you. The USDN Podcast - Where indie comics come to life.

Bobby Campbell returns to the USDN Podcast to discuss Tales of the Illuminatus #3: Opus Chao and the journey of bringing the legacy of Robert Shea and Robert Anton Wilson's Illuminatus into comics. Bobby joins The Chairman to look back at how the series has evolved from Issue #1 to Issue #3, how his creative process has changed, and the challenge of honoring the original Illuminatus material while finding his own voice within its world. The conversation also dives into the realities of independent comics and crowdfunding. Bobby discusses why building a growing readership matters more to him than simply raising more money, how comic production has changed during his years in the industry, mistakes new creators make when starting out, and why creators preparing for Kickstarter should get as much of their book finished as possible before launching. We also explore Opus Chao, what makes Issue #3 different, where Tales of the Illuminatus goes next, and what Bobby hopes readers ultimately take away from the series. Support Tales of the Illuminatus #3: Opus Chao and Late Pledge on Kickstarter:https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/bobbycampbell/tales-of-illuminatus-3-opus-chao Explore Tales of the Illuminatus:https://talesofilluminatus.com/ Follow Bobby Campbell: BlueSky:https://bsky.app/profile/bobbycampbell.net Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bobbycampbell777/ 🌐 Connect with the USDN Podcast:https://linktr.ee/USDN_Podcast 📦 Protect Your Collection with BCW Supplies:https://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=USDN Use code USDN at checkout. Affiliate Disclosure: We may earn a commission from purchases made through our BCW affiliate link. The USDN Podcast - Where Indie Comics Come to Life.

How do you turn the stories in your head into an original fantasy universe and then convince people to care about it? Jesse Wolfe joins the USDN Podcast to discuss The Legend of Kyyden #2, his journey from writing novellas to creating independent comics, and everything he's learned while building a creator-owned fantasy series from the ground up. What began as stories Jesse simply needed to get out of his head has grown into an ambitious creator-owned fantasy world with a long-term story still waiting to unfold. With The Legend of Kyyden #2 launching on Kickstarter October 12, Jesse takes us behind the pages of Kyyden and the realities of turning an idea into a comic, finding an audience for it, and continuing to build when you're responsible for far more than simply writing the story. Topics Covered The journey from writing novellas to creating comicsThe origins and philosophy behind The Legend of KyydenBuilding an original fantasy universeIntroducing readers to Kyyden through DimitriLearning from constructive criticismProtecting your creative vision as an indie creatorBuilding an audience and community around independent comicsReturning to Kickstarter for Issue #2Creating different editions for different audiencesPlanning a long-form creator-owned comic seriesThe realities of learning every part of independent comic productionJesse's influences and the future of The Legend of Kyyden Support The Legend of Kyyden #2 🚀 Kickstarter - Launching October 12:https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ubwriter/legend-of-kyyden-1-2-a-robust-fantasy-action-comic-series?ref=72140z 🌐 Follow Jesse Wolfe:https://linktr.ee/jwstorytelling Connect with the USDN Podcast 🎙️ Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@USDN_Podcast 🔗 Follow USDN Everywhere:https://linktr.ee/usdn_podcast 👥 Join the Council of Nerds Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/usdnpodcast ❤️ Support the Channel:https://www.patreon.com/cw/thedfpn Support Our Affiliate Partner 📦 BCW Supplies Use code USDN to save on your next order. https://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=usdn USDN may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through this affiliate link. Business / Media Inquiries 📧 [email protected] If you enjoy conversations with independent comic creators, Kickstarter spotlights, worldbuilding, and behind-the-scenes looks at creator-owned comics, subscribe and follow the USDN Podcast wherever you listen. The USDN Podcast - Where Indie Comics Come to Life.

Ancient relics. Supernatural power. A thirteen-issue epic years in the making. In this episode of The USDN Podcast, The Chairman sits down with W. Frank Walk, creator of Hellstones, to discuss Hellstones #1: Into the Fray and the journey of building a long-form creator-owned comic series through Pigmacast Studio. From developing the mythology behind Hellstones to balancing the responsibilities of writer, creator, and colorist, Frank shares what it takes to produce an independent comic while building a world designed to tell a complete thirteen-issue story. The conversation also explores crowdfunding, earning long-term backer trust, comic book production, and the realities of independent publishing. Topics Covered • The creation of Hellstones• Expanding the world established in Hellstones #0• Writing, creating, and coloring an independent comic• Behind the scenes of comic book production• Building a planned thirteen-issue story• Crowdfunding and building backer trust• Independent publishing and creator-owned comics• The future of Pigmacast Studio Learn More 🚀 Kickstarter:https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/pigmacast/hellstones-into-the-fray-a-supernatural-action-comic 🌐 Pigmacast Studio:https://pigmacast.com Follow USDN 🌐 https://linktr.ee/usdn_podcast Business Inquiries: 📧 [email protected] Protect Your Collection with BCW Supplies Shop BCW Supplies:https://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=usdn Use code USDN at checkout for 10% OFF your retail order. Affiliate Disclosure: USDN may earn a small commission if you use our affiliate link or code. This helps support the show at no extra cost to you. The USDN Podcast - Where Indie Comics Come to Life. #Hellstones #WFrankWalk #PigmacastStudio #KickstarterComics #IndieComics #CreatorOwned #ComicBooks #ComicCreators #Crowdfunding #USDNPodcast

Joe Kazmer and Jarrod Burris join The USDN Podcast to discuss Collision Force #2, an action-packed creator-owned comic that's been described as an "R-Rated G.I. Joe." From building an original comic universe to crowdfunding and cinematic storytelling, Joe and Jarrod share the story behind the series, how their creative partnership began, the transition from screenwriting to comics, lessons learned through Kickstarter, and why action comics still have an important place in today's independent comic industry. In This Episode  The origins of Collision Force  Building an "R-Rated G.I. Joe" for indie comics  Creator-owned worldbuilding  Screenwriting vs. comic writing  Writing action for comics  Crowdfunding lessons  Why action comics still matter  The future of Collision Force Learn More 🚀 Kickstarter https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/rowdybroncocreative/collision-force-2 🌐 Official Website https://collisionforce.net Connect with the USDN Podcast 🎙️ Subscribe on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@USDN_Podcast 🔗 Follow USDN Everywhere https://linktr.ee/usdn_podcast ❤️ Support the Channel on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/cw/thedfpn Support Our Affiliate Partner 📦 BCW Supplies Use code USDN to save on comic book bags, boards, storage boxes, and collecting supplies. https://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=usdn USDN may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through this affiliate link. Business / Media Inquiries: 📧 [email protected] If you enjoy conversations with independent comic creators, creator-owned comics, Kickstarter campaigns, worldbuilding, and behind-the-scenes looks at making comics, be sure to follow the podcast, leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform, and share this episode with a fellow comic fan. The USDN Podcast - Where Indie Comics Come to Life.

Frederick Littles joins The USDN Podcast to discuss Wise Acre Comics, Dark Sentinel: Origins #2, Magnus Jakuta, independent comic publishing, crowdfunding, comic production, and the realities of building a creator-owned publishing company. As the founder of Wise Acre Comics, Frederick has spent years developing original comic book properties while building a publishing company dedicated to producing creator-owned stories with long-term vision and lasting impact. From flagship titles like Dark Sentinel and Magnus Jakuta to expanding into action figures and collectibles, Wise Acre Comics is focused on creating an interconnected universe of original characters that extends beyond the comic book page. But building comics is only part of the story. During this conversation, Frederick shares the realities of independent publishing, managing creative teams, coordinating production schedules, running successful crowdfunding campaigns, earning the trust of backers, and balancing the creative and business sides of the comic book industry. Frederick also reflects on his military service, finding a second mission through comics, and the passion that continues to drive Wise Acre Comics forward. During this conversation, The Chairman and Frederick discuss his journey into comics, the founding of Wise Acre Comics, the origins of Dark Sentinel and Magnus Jakuta, creator-owned publishing, comic production, crowdfunding, expanding into collectibles, building original intellectual property, leadership, perseverance, and the future of Wise Acre Comics. TOPICS COVERED • Frederick Littles' journey into comics• The founding of Wise Acre Comics• Building a creator-owned comic publishing company• The origins of Dark Sentinel• Magnus Jakuta and expanding original IPs• Independent comic production and publishing• Managing creative teams and production schedules• Crowdfunding strategies and lessons learned• Building trust with Kickstarter backers• Expanding into action figures and collectibles• Leadership, perseverance, and long-term vision• Military service and finding a second mission• Building sustainable creator-owned intellectual property• The future of Wise Acre Comics SUPPORT FREDERICK LITTLES & WISE ACRE COMICS Website:https://www.wiseacrecomics.com/ Campaigns:https://www.wiseacrecomics.com/pages/kickstarter-zoop Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/wiseacrecomics PROTECT YOUR COLLECTION WITH BCW SUPPLIES Shop BCW Supplies:https://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=usdn Use code USDN for 10% off your order. Affiliate Disclosure: USDN may earn a small commission if you use our affiliate link or code. This helps support the show at no extra cost to you. FOLLOW THE USDN PODCAST https://linktr.ee/USDN_Podcast CONTACT THE USDN PODCAST: [email protected] Follow The USDN Podcast for more conversations with independent comic creators, writers, artists, publishers, and storytellers exploring indie comics, crowdfunding, creator-owned publishing, comic production, worldbuilding, and the realities of the independent comic book industry. The USDN Podcast - Where Indie Comics Come to Life.