Capital of Comics

Join host Joel Rodriguez in an insightful conversation with game and comic writer Joshua Rubin. Discover his journey from Hollywood screenwriting to creating iconic characters like Ezio Auditore, and explore his innovative work in VR, AI, and comics. Learn valuable lessons on career pivots, collaboration, and the future of storytelling in the digital age.

In this episode, host Joel Rodriguez interviews Jesse Sosa, a versatile creator involved in both games and comics. Jesse shares his journey from working in the gaming industry at Gearbox, where he manages art outsourcing and direction, to transitioning into comics. He discusses his passion for storytelling across various mediums, inspired by his childhood love for comics and the desire to honor a late friend. Jesse also emphasizes the importance of balancing passion with production, managing time effectively, and the challenges of monetizing creative work in today's market.

In this episode, Shawn Hudachko shares his journey from Marine to successful comic book publisher, emphasizing discipline, risk-taking, and authentic branding. Discover practical advice on starting, growing, and innovating in the comic industry, including how to handle controversy and build a resilient business mindset.

Erika Lance shares her journey from novelist to publisher, offering invaluable insights into the publishing industry, marketing strategies, and how creators can succeed by understanding the business side of art.

In this episode, Rob Multari shares his extensive experience with Kickstarter campaigns, community building, and marketing strategies for creators. Discover actionable insights on campaign planning, audience engagement, variant covers, stretch goals, and overcoming creator fatigue.

In this episode, Joel interviews Eric Tapper, co-founder of GlobalComix. They discuss the evolution of GlobalComix, and share insights on innovation in the industry, emphasizing the importance of making digital publishing accessible and engaging. They also explore the impact of AI and machine learning in enhancing the reading experience.

In this episode, Kyle Willis shares his inspiring journey from artist to successful comic book retailer, emphasizing the importance of persistence, adaptability, and business mindset in the creative industry. Discover practical tips on managing multiple facets of a creative business, turning no into yes, and building a thriving community around your art. Kyle Willis shares his journey through various art mediums, the creative process behind his mosaic work, and insights into the comic industry, including trends, marketing, and political satire. This episode offers valuable lessons for creators and entrepreneurs alike.

In this episode, Joel Rodriguez interviews Laurie Foster, owner of Laguna Studios, about her journey from comic artist to business owner, the importance of vision, balancing creativity with business, and overcoming imposter syndrome. They discuss growth, diversification, and the mindset needed for success in the creative industry. Join us for an in-depth discussion as we explore innovative approaches to comics creation, community building, and industry trends. Discover how Laguna Studios is shaping the future of comics through community engagement, makerspaces, and strategic pivots.

In this episode, Erik Laidroo, a seasoned media producer and owner of Blue Rock Media, shares insights on building a successful media business, networking strategies, the impact of AI on media production, and lessons from the creative industry that apply to comics. Discover how small jobs can lead to big opportunities and the importance of quality and relationships.

In this episode of Capital of Comics, host Joel Rodriguez interviews David Byrne, a narrative strategist and lead writer at Metal Ninja Studios. They discuss David's journey into the comic industry, the evolution of his publishing company, W.i.N. Pictures, and the importance of team dynamics in creative projects. The conversation also delves into the challenges of adapting stories into different mediums, understanding publishing contracts, and the signs of a good publisher. Additionally, they explore the significance of building relationships within the industry and the process of finding and collaborating with artists. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of the comic book industry, discussing the rewarding aspects of writing and editing, the transformative power of crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter, and the challenges of navigating the direct market. They share insights on pitching to publishers, understanding IP licensing, and the ongoing debate about working for exposure. The importance of effective communication and building partnerships with artists is emphasized, along with practical advice on character design and collaboration.