Narrative Empire Feat. Erika Lance

Episode 023 - Joshua Malkin

In this episode, Joshua Malkin, editor-in-chief at AMP Comics and educator, shares his diverse journey through film, education, and comics. He discusses the business advantages of comics, the impact of AI on creative industries, and practical advice for aspiring creators looking to navigate the evolving landscape. ----more---- Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to the Creative Journey 02:53 - Embracing Opportunities in Creativity 06:06 - Navigating Shiny Object Syndrome 09:45 - The State of Comics: Myths and Realities 16:57 - Creative Processes: Film vs. Comics 21:08 - Choosing Your Medium: Insights for Aspiring Creators 25:47 - Market Research in Comics: The Kickstarter Advantage Connect with our Guest: Website: ampcomics.com  Ready to level up your comic career? Join the Concept to Comic Academy for exclusive Q&As, mentorship, and full masterclass archives. [Join the Academy here] [https://metalninjastudios.com/academy] Subscribe and follow for weekly insights into the business behind the panels.

Episode 022 - Rob Potchak

In this episode, Rob Potchak, VP of Partnerships at KeenSpot, shares his extensive experience in the comic industry, from his start as a creator to his current role. He discusses industry challenges, success strategies, and the importance of diversifying creative pursuits while staying true to your passion. ----more---- Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Background 03:10 - Journey into Comics: From Reader to Creator 05:57 - The Role of an Editor and Creative Growth 09:00 - Navigating Criticism and Self-Reflection 11:53 - Overcoming Setbacks in the Comic Industry 15:03 - The Indie vs. Mainstream Comic Landscape 18:10 - Building Connections and Finding Your Audience 21:01 - Creating for Yourself: The Heart of Storytelling 23:47 - Advice for Aspiring Creators 26:50 - The Reality of Comic Book Economics 30:11 - Conclusion and Future Aspirations 31:45 - The Joy of Publishing Dreams 32:30 - Connecting with Creators Connect with our Guest: Social Media: "Rob Pachak" or "Rob Potsy Pachak" on most social media, and on X (formerly Twitter) as "Pachak." Ready to level up your comic career? Join the Concept to Comic Academy for exclusive Q&As, mentorship, and full masterclass archives. [Join the Academy here] [https://metalninjastudios.com/academy] Subscribe and follow for weekly insights into the business behind the panels.

Narrative Equity Feat. Joshua Rubin

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. ----more---- Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Housekeeping 02:11 - Meet Joshua Rubin: The Creator Behind Ezio Auditore 04:10 - Joshua's Journey: From Novelist to Game Writer 08:02 - The Transition to Video Games and Learning the Craft 10:52 - Exploring New Frontiers: VR and Narrative Innovation 12:48 - Advice for Aspiring Creatives: Embrace Learning 13:39 - Lessons Learned: Navigating Different Mediums 16:30 - Balancing Ego and Teamwork in Creative Work 20:54 - Leading a Creative Team: Insights from Joshua 23:32 - The Joy of Connecting with Audiences in Comics Connect with our Guest: Social Media: @Joshua Rubin or Strangeland Comics Ready to level up your comic career? Join the Concept to Comic Academy for exclusive Q&As, mentorship, and full masterclass archives. [Join the Academy here] [https://metalninjastudios.com/academy] Subscribe and follow for weekly insights into the business behind the panels.

Panels & Pixels Feat. Jesse Sosa

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. ----more---- Chapters 1:01 Guest Introduction: Jesse Sosa 1:29 Jesse's Role in Games 2:55 Transition from Games to Comics 3:15 Inspiration and Early Influences 5:33 Honoring a Friend through Creativity 6:29 Comics vs. Games: Speed and Cost 9:35 Current Projects and Roles 11:48 Balancing Multiple Roles 12:20 Lessons from Gearbox 18:25 Managing Artists and Deadlines 25:28 Challenges in Comics Industry 29:20 Excitement about Comics Connect with our Guest: Website: thechancla.com [http://thechancla.com/] Store: dinoshop.store [http://dinoshop.store/] Instagram: @skankerzero Ready to level up your comic career? Join the Concept to Comic Academy for exclusive Q&As, mentorship, and full masterclass archives. [Join the Academy here] [https://metalninjastudios.com/academy] Subscribe and follow for weekly insights into the business behind the panels.

Mission: Comics Feat. Shawn Hudachko

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. ----more----Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Shawn Hudachko and Comics Elite 02:50 - Lessons from the Marine Corps: Discipline and Leadership 05:55 - Embracing Failure: The Path to Growth 08:59 - The Entrepreneurial Mindset: Seizing Opportunities 12:14 - The Importance of Asking for Guidance 14:59 - Navigating Controversy in the Comic Industry 17:50 - Vertical Integration: Expanding the Business Model 21:09 - The Art of Hiring: Finding the Right Talent 28:50 - Hiring and Training: The Foundation of Success Connect with our Guest: https://comicselitecomics.com/ [https://comicselitecomics.com/] Ready to level up your comic career? Join the Concept to Comic Academy for exclusive Q&As, mentorship, and full masterclass archives. [Join the Academy here] [https://metalninjastudios.com/academy] Subscribe and follow for weekly insights into the business behind the panels.