Neighborhood Comics Convo

Waco O'Guin and the Paradise PD + Farzar Comic Kickstarter

Episode Guest: Waco O’Guin Waco O’Guin [https://www.instagram.com/wacooguin/] and I have a history. And luckily for me, we also have a present and a future. I’ve known animation tycoon/show runner/comedy writer/entrepreneur/serial day trader Waco O’Guin since junior high school. I’m extremely proud of all he’s accomplished. From winning a Butterfinger art contest to crashing the Music Video Awards, he was always the coolest guy in my rotation. These days we don’t see each other as often as I’d like, but when we do, we’re right back in the thick of things. In this episode of Neighborhood Comics Convo, we talk about Waco’s animation career, getting blackout in Savannah for his 21st birthday and his new Kickstarter graphic novel project. Paradise PD & Farzar: The Final Season Graphic Novel [https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/waco-roger/paradise-pd-and-farzar-the-final-season-graphic-novel] As a television creator, you don’t always get to end a show on your own terms. This graphic novel project allows Waco and his partner Roger the chance to tell one last story. If you’ve enjoyed their shows on Netflix, this is the (not so?) happy ending you’ve been waiting to enjoy. The campaign ends on April 2 and is fully funded. Damn Show Plus [https://damnshow.com/] We also discussed the underground phenomenon the Damn! Show and its second life on a custom streaming platform. If you want to see where Waco and Roger started, this is just for you [https://damnshow.com/]. Those Scruggs [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584017227828] You can check out Waco’s latest creation, Those Scruggs wherever you watch videos online. Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61584017227828] If you’re listening to the audio version, be sure to visit our website to see vintage photos of me and Waco in high school. We were very, very cool guys. And no, you can’t hear our rap album. Neighborhood Comics is a reader-supported indie comic shop. To receive new posts and support our work, become a subscriber. Get full access to Neighborhood Comics at convo.neighborhoodcomics.com/subscribe [https://convo.neighborhoodcomics.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

Deanna Soukiasian on the Best of 2025

I’m so excited to share the conversation that I had with comics superstar Deanna Soukiasian [https://www.instagram.com/heyyisdeedeehome] earlier this month. I hate the microphone that I used, but hey, you come for the yap, not the tech. And the yap with Dee is always stellar. Thanks for reading Neighborhood Comics! This episode is public so feel free to share it. In this episode, we discuss the state of comics, focusing on conventions, the rise of zines, the importance of libraries, and what’s next for indie comics. Deanna shares her experiences at MICE and CXC, her role in editing and teaching, and her passion for promoting young artists. Subscribe to the Convo and never miss an episode or update! Get full access to Neighborhood Comics at convo.neighborhoodcomics.com/subscribe [https://convo.neighborhoodcomics.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

Doughboys: The Comic Book with Artist Fred C. Stresing

Fred C. Stresing [https://neighborhoodcomics.com/search?q=stresing&options%5Bprefix%5D=last] is a long-time friend of the shop. He and partner Meg Casey are now working with one of our favorite podcasts, Doughboys, to bring its “kids club for adults” to life in 4 colors. In this week’s episode of Neighborhood Comics Convo we talk about Fred’s career - past, present and future - chatting about licensed comic work and what makes the Doughboys [https://birdfuck.com] so special. You can buy Doughboys the Comic Book: Mitch and Wiger Chew America / Crisis on Infinite Girths [https://neighborhoodcomics.com/products/the-doughboys-mitch-and-wiger-chew-america-crisis-on-infinite-girths-1-of-6] right now at Neighborhood Comics. Follow Fred at Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/fredcstresing/] Get full access to Neighborhood Comics at convo.neighborhoodcomics.com/subscribe [https://convo.neighborhoodcomics.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

Jamie Jones on Heroes Con, Power Pulp and Making a Scene

In this convo, Lee Heidel and Jamie Jones [https://www.bowtie.press/] chat on the significance of HeroesCon [https://www.heroesonline.com/heroescon/] — “Comic Book Homecoming” as Jamie calls it — the challenges and joys of being an independent creator, and the importance of community in the comic industry. Neighborhood Comics is a reader-supported comic shop. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. They discuss the evolution of comic book conventions, the role nostalgia plays in comic appreciation, and the innovative Power Pulp [https://powerpulpcomics.com/] distribution coop that supports independent comic creators creators. Jamie shares insights on building relationships at conventions, tips for new creators, and the success of community-driven events like Drink and Draw. We also realized that Jamie’s art is just like this podcast as “Moms are the target audience.” Follow Jamie over here → Jamie Jones [https://substack.com/profile/40981478-jamie-jones] and at artofjamiejones pretty much everywhere. Get full access to Neighborhood Comics at convo.neighborhoodcomics.com/subscribe [https://convo.neighborhoodcomics.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]

At the Bodega with Thao Hong

I was thrilled to chat with Savannah artist Thao Hong [https://www.thaohong.com/] about their work and recent tabling experience at DCAZ [https://www.dcazfest.com/]. In this Episode: * Thao Hong shares her creative process and workspace. * Thao’s collaboration with her fiancé enhances her artistic journey. * Listening to podcasts and music fuels her creativity. * Toy making evolved from a hobby to a significant part of her work. * The Egg Boys brand reflects her love for food and art. * Interactive tabling strategies engage audiences at conventions. * DCAZ provided a unique platform for artists to connect with the public. * Community support is vital for artistic growth and accountability. * Cohesive presentation of work enhances audience experience. Summary In this conversation, Lee Heidel speaks with Savannah artist Thao Hong about her creative journey, the importance of community, and her unique approach to art and toy making. They discuss her experiences at the DCAZ Fest, the concept behind her Egg Boys brand, and the interactive strategies she employs at conventions. Thao shares insights on the significance of collaboration, the joy of creating, and the role of accountability in artistic endeavors. The conversation highlights the vibrant art scene in Savannah and the importance of making art accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Choice Quotes * "I love a good podcast." * "Eggs are my artistic muse." * "Art should be fun and playful." Get full access to Neighborhood Comics at convo.neighborhoodcomics.com/subscribe [https://convo.neighborhoodcomics.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4]