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Dive into the complete episode list for Comic Lab. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Kickstarter mistake — confusing rewards with add-ons29 Aug 202400:56:43

Brad and Dave discuss using rewards and add-ons in a Kickstarter campaign. Then, they tackle the problem of whether your dialogue should feature proper English or your character's "natural" speech.

Today's show

  • Kickstarter mistake — confusing rewards with add-ons
  • Check out Dave's Kickstarter at Newdrivebook.com
  • Should you write in proper English?
  • UPDATE: Reuben Awards — two live ComicLab shows on Thursday, Aug. 22
  • How to start at the very beginning

Summary

In this conversation, Brad and Dave discuss their experiences with building Lego sets and building a gaming PC. They also talk about the importance of structuring Kickstarter rewards and add-ons, and the psychology behind offering choices to backers. They emphasize the need to make a profit on add-ons and to account for them in the Kickstarter goal. They also mention the upcoming live shows at the National Cartoonist Society Reuben Awards and discuss the possibility of future speaking engagements. In this part of the conversation, Brad and Dave discuss the balance between writing in proper English and writing dialogue that sounds natural. They emphasize the importance of considering the audience and the potential reach of the comic. They also discuss the use of slang and specific language choices, highlighting the need to make slight modifications to appeal to a wider audience. They stress the importance of using punctuation properly, especially in comedy, where timing is crucial. They also provide advice for aspiring comic creators, encouraging them to start making comics and to seek opportunities for publication, even if it means facing potential embarrassment.

Takeaways

  • Building LEGO sets and a gaming PC can be challenging and require attention to detail.
  • When structuring Kickstarter rewards, it's important to offer a variety of options and price tiers to appeal to different backers.
  • Add-ons can be a profitable addition to a Kickstarter campaign, but it's crucial to ensure they are priced to make a profit.
  • Digital rewards can be a significant source of income for a Kickstarter campaign and have the advantage of no shipping costs.
  • Live shows and speaking engagements can be exciting opportunities for cartoonists to connect with their audience and expand their reach. When deciding on the language and dialogue choices for your comic, consider the audience and potential reach of your comic.
  • Making slight modifications to appeal to a wider audience can help you reach more readers.
  • Proper punctuation is crucial, especially in comedy, as it affects timing and delivery.
  • Start making comics and learn from your mistakes. Seek opportunities for publication to improve your craft.
  • Embrace the potential for embarrassment as a learning experience and a way to improve your skills.

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.

Special Guest Co-Host Kevin McShane22 Aug 202401:03:09

As Brad Guigar travels to Bad Axe, Michigan, to spend a fun-filled week with his family, Kevin McShane steps in to talk comics with Dave Kellett. 

In this conversation, David and Kevin discuss various topics related to comics, including their experiences with "Love Is" comics at their weddings, the potential future advancements in comic-making technology, and different marketing strategies for sharing comics. They explore the idea of using VR technology to create a more immersive drawing experience, the enduring appeal of 2D comics, and the importance of building an audience through platforms like mailing lists and social media. Kevin discusses the various social media platforms he uses to share his comics, including Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, Mastodon, Twitter, and Imgur. He explains that Imgur is like a nicer version of Reddit and that he uses it to drive traffic to his website. David is intrigued by Imgur and asks Kevin for a pitch on why he should be posting there. Kevin explains that Imgur started as an image hosting service for Reddit and has a social media aspect to it. They also discuss their motivations for posting on social media and the validation they seek from likes and engagement. They explore the idea of creating books and the number of comics needed for a book. They also discuss the possibility of changing their approach to comics if compensation wasn't a factor. They end the conversation by addressing a question from a listener who creates gardening advice cartoons and wonders if she should reduce the number of panels to cater to social media attention spans. In this final part of the conversation, David and Kevin discuss the different types of content that perform well on social media, including informative, emotional, and aspirational content. They also provide advice on interviewing other creators, emphasizing the importance of research and making the interviewee feel comfortable. The hosts share funny anecdotes about their experiences with interviews and express their pride in not discussing AI in the conversation.

THIS WEEK

  • "Love Is" comics at Weddings
  • The Future of Comic-Making Technology: VR and AI
  •  The Enduring Appeal of 2D Comics
  • Building an Audience: Mailing Lists and Social Media
  • Navigating Social Media Platforms
  • Balancing Panel Count for Social Media
  •  The Power of Different Content Types
  • Interviewing Other Creators
  • Avoiding AI in Comics Technology Discussions
  • Funny Anecdotes from Interview Experiences

TAKEAWAYS

  • Love Is comics can add a unique and nostalgic touch to weddings and other events.
  • The future of comic-making technology may involve advancements in VR and AI.
  • 2D comics have a timeless appeal and can survive alongside other forms of media.
  • Building an audience through platforms like mailing lists and social media is crucial for sharing and promoting comics. Kevin uses various social media platforms to share his comics and drive traffic to his website.
  • Kevin recommends Imgur for sharing comics. It allows linking and has a nicer community than Reddit.
  • Both Kevin and David seek validation through likes and engagement on social media.
  • The number of comics needed for a book can vary, but it's important to have a substantial amount of quality content.
  • If compensation wasn't a factor, Kevin would quit his day job to dedicate more time to creating comics.
  • Reducing the number of panels in a comic may compromise the usefulness of the content, so it's important to find a balance that works for the creator's goals and the audience's attention spans. Different types of content perform well on social media, including informative, emotional, and aspirational content.
  • When interviewing other creators, it's important to do thorough research and ask unique and engaging questions.
  • Making interviewees feel comfortable and creating a safe space for them to share is crucial for a successful interview.
  • Avoiding discussions about AI in the context of comics technology can be refreshing and indicative of the current fatigue with AI.
  • The hosts share funny anecdotes about their experiences with interviews, highlighting the importance of building rapport and creating a relaxed atmosphere.

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.

Are dad jokes ~bad~ jokes?20 Jun 202401:01:56

A new father asks if his baby will change how he writes. "Hey, Comics Dads, I'm worried," he says. "Hey, Worried, we're Comics Dads," we reply. And then Dave invites Brad to pull his finger. After they discuss the effects of parenthood on creativity, a friendly zinester writes in to take Brad to task over his dismissal of zines as "nutty."

ON TODAY'S SHOW

  • How does fatherhood affect writing?
  • UPDATE: Google's AI meltdown
  • UPDATE: Zines are not "nutty"
  • UPDATE: Dave may have been wrong about Patreon's free membership tier
  • "Why is my audience so small?"

CHAPTERS

00:00 Parenthood and Writing: Impact and Misconceptions

20:24 Navigating Parenthood: Challenges and Joys

22:20 The Evolution of Humor: From Wit to Dad Jokes

25:00 The Importance of Socializing for Personal Growth

32:30 AI and Social Media: Implications for Users

38:13 Navigating Social Media Privacy and Bulk Deletion

40:27 The Impact of Government Action on Data Protection

42:05 Reconsidering Patreon's Free Membership Tier

52:22 The Value of Passionate Readership and Audience Growth

SUMMARY

The conversation covers the topic of parenthood and its impact on creativity and writing. It explores the fear of change in writing tone, the influence of life milestones on writing, and the misconceptions about parenthood. The discussion also delves into the broadening of horizons and empathy through parenthood, and the impact on character development in writing. The conversation covers various topics related to fatherhood, humor, and socialization

Then  the hosts deliver an update on the impact of AI on social media. The hosts share personal experiences and insights on these subjects, providing valuable perspectives for listeners. The conversation covers topics related to social media privacy, Patreon's free membership tier, and the growth of an audience for comics. It delves into the challenges of bulk deleting content on Instagram, the impact of government action on data protection, and the reconsideration of Patreon's free tier. The hosts also discuss the significance of passionate readership and the gradual growth of an audience.

TAKEAWAYS

  • Parenthood can influence a writer's perspective and writing style, but it doesn't necessarily mean a shift to saccharine or toothless content.
  • Life milestones, such as parenthood, bring about changes in a writer's approach and perspective, leading to a broader and more empathetic understanding of characters and storytelling.
  • Misconceptions about parenthood, such as the fear of losing personal interests and creative pursuits, can be dispelled through a balanced approach to time management and a deeper appreciation for the human experience.
  • Parenthood broadens a writer's horizons and empathy, allowing for a deeper understanding of character viewpoints and moral codes, ultimately enhancing the quality of writing and storytelling. The initial months of parenthood may be challenging, but the long-term benefits are rewarding.
  • Humor evolves over time, and dad jokes are a natural expression of finding joy in everyday moments.
  • Socializing is essential for maintaining wit and humor, and it contributes to personal growth.
  • The impact of AI on social media platforms like Instagram raises concerns about privacy and user experience. Bulk deleting content on social media platforms can be challenging and time-consuming.
  • Government action is crucial for protecting user data from exploitation by large tech companies.
  • Reconsidering the value of Patreon's free membership tier can lead to a change in perspective and understanding of its potential benefits.
  • Passionate readership is more valuable than audience size, and it can contribute to the gradual growth of an audience for comics and other creative content.

 

 

 

 

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.

Feeling a little Ziggy29 Sep 202201:06:50

Being lonely in a large city has a listener feeling a little Ziggy — and cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar have some advice.

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • Feeling a little Ziggy
  • Making money while on government assistance
  • The secret success is... failure
  • Making a board game or card game based on your comic
  • Sheldon... the movie?

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

Has Publishing Become Vanity Press?22 Sep 202201:08:02

A recent statistic about the print publishing industry have cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar thankful they self-publish. Also... the NFT comics company that reached out to Dave at San Diego Comic Con folded eight days later. 

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • Publishing statistics report 90% of published books sell under 2,000 copies
  • What are the disadvantages to self-publishing?
  • UPDATE: NFT company dies in 10 days
  • Audiobook versions of comics
  • Creating videos of comics

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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 Butso Method of writing15 Sep 202200:58:26

Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar discuss the fabulously underrated Butso Method for writing. 

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • The Butso Method
  • When should you launch a side project?
  • UPDATE: Dave shares his Kickstarter stats
  • How many pages on launch day of longform?

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

Marketing with feeling08 Sep 202201:05:28

People make decisions based on emotions first, and then they back it up with logic afterwards. So cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar discuss effectively marketing your comic with feelings over facts. 

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • Using emotions to promote your comic (based on this Reddit thread)
  • Growing Patreon 10% with Brad's advice
  • Clip Studio Paint goes to the subscription model
  • Offering help to someone who may not want it
  • Contractual obligations for using another person's character

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

Have we become the people we fought?01 Sep 202201:10:30

Cartoonists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett start a discussion about  trying to avoid becoming the people they used to fight, only to slowly realize... it had already happened.

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • Don't become your heroes
  • What is the dominant publishing format?
  • How much life experience goes into writing?
  • How do you keep the sex fresh in NSFW comics?

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

When a Passive Revenue Stream is "Set it and regret it"25 Aug 202200:58:00

Cartoonists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett get a case of déjà vu when a new crowdfunding service reminds them of an old scheme that crashed and burned. Then, a listener writes in to complain "It's Friday and I'm not famous!"

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • Subless — A new crowdfunding service based on an old idea
  • "It's Friday and I'm not famous!"
  • Weekend Web traffic

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

"I made a plagiarism — but I LIKE it... can I KEEP it??"18 Aug 202201:02:25

Cartoonists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett give advice to a comics artist who realizes that they'd accidentally plagiarized a character from someone else... but they like their character so much they just don't want to change it! Is there a plagiarism loophole? But FIRST... there's a lot of news and updates to cover!

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

San Diego Comic Con review11 Aug 202201:23:00

Cartoonist Dave Kellett has returned from Comic-Con International in San Diego, and talks about his first convention since the pandemic began.

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • Dave Kellett reviews Comic-Con International in San Diego
  • Live show at the Schulz Museum Nov. 12
  • Sacrificing aesthetics for time
  • Re-thinking vertical scroll?

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

"My friends won't buy my comics!"04 Aug 202200:55:28

Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar give some advice to a cartoonist whose friends want his comics for free. Is this an entitlement issue? It is... but not in the way he thinks.

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • My friends won't buy my comics!
  • UPDATE: dinokickstarter.com
  • UPDATE: A rolling stone does NOT gather moss
  • UPDATE: "Brad Guigar Stole My Woman"
  • Presenting an archive of older work
  • Dream goals.

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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 Decoy Effect28 Jul 202201:07:56

Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar discuss the Decoy Effect and wonder how this economic phenomenon could be applied to crowdfunding. 

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • Using the Decoy Effect on Patreon and Kickstarter
  • Should you pay a collaborator MORE than they ask for?
  • Comics-Prose hybrid
  • Identifying success so you know how to look for it
  • Messaging new patrons

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

It's Friday — am I famous yet?13 Jun 202400:59:46

After six weeks of working on their comic, a listener asks how soon they can expect to make a living doing this — and gets an earful from Brad and Dave.  Plus, Brad and Dave share more of their picks for Reuben Award nominees.

In this episode, Brad and Dave discuss the importance of having realistic expectations and enjoying the creative process when making comics. They share their own experiences of how long it took them to see financial success and build an audience. They caution against starting a Patreon too soon and making decisions based solely on trying to gain more backers. They emphasize the need to focus on the love of creating and the joy of storytelling rather than solely focusing on financial success. Overall, they encourage the listener to have patience and enjoy the journey of creating comics.

Also, Brad and Dave explore the potential impact of AI on search engine optimization and the web ecosystem. Next, they discuss the importance of giving artists creative freedom when commissioning art.  The conversation touches on the challenges of communication between commissioners and artists, as well as the spectrum of visual thinking. The hosts share personal anecdotes and insights, highlighting the need for clear communication and understanding between both parties involved in a commission.

ON TODAY'S SHOW

  • It's Friday; am I famous yet?
  • UPDATE: More Reuben picks
  • UPDATE: Google’s new AI search is gonna kill a lotta websites
  • Commissioning original art

TAKEAWAYS

  • Building an audience and achieving financial success in comics takes time, often several years.
  • Having realistic expectations and not solely focusing on financial goals is important.
  • Enjoying the creative process and the love of storytelling is crucial for long-term success.
  • Starting a Patreon too soon can lead to disappointment and creative compromises.
  • Focus on improving your craft and building a small, dedicated audience before seeking financial support.
  • Patience and perseverance are key in the journey of creating comics. When commissioning art, it's important to find a balance between providing enough detail and allowing the artist creative freedom.
  • Clear communication is key in ensuring that both the commissioner and the artist are on the same page.
  • Understanding the artist's style and approach is crucial when commissioning art.
  • The impact of AI on search engine optimization and the web ecosystem is a topic of concern and uncertainty.
  • The spectrum of visual thinking varies among individuals, and it's important to be aware of different perspectives and preferences.

 

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 if practice DOESN'T make progress?21 Jul 202201:01:49

Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar field a question from a listener who is worried that they'll lose readers as they improve their skills!

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • Raising prices to match inflation
  • Desigining background "sets" for comics
  • What if practice *doesn't* make progress?
  • How to keep from going stir-crazy while working from home.

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

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  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

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You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

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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.

We need to talk about Webtoons14 Jul 202201:06:15

Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar field a question from a listener who is worried that they'll lose readers as they improve their skills!

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • We need to talk about Webtoons
  • UPDATE: SDCC reached out saying I can't use the ™ "Comic-Con" on packaging
  • UPDATE: Backerkit launches a crowdfunding platform
  • How page design effects the layout of a book.

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

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  • $5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

Word balloon aesthetics07 Jul 202200:50:45

Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar discuss word balloons! How do you find the look that suits your comic best?

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • Word balloon aesthetics
  • Kickstarter stretch goals
  • UPDATE: Free ComicLab pins at SDCC
  • UPDATE: Gannett slashes op-ed pages
  • Do Patreon milestone rewards still work?
  • Is Ziggy the best comic of all time?

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

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  • $5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

"Why won't the world let me be awesome?"30 Jun 202201:03:50

Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar discuss the importance of mindset in building a career. If you search for excuses, you'll find excuses. If you search for solutions, you'll find solutions.

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • Choosing to find solutions instead of wallowing on failure
  • Great How-to books for comics
  • Releasing a longform comic one panel a day??
  • Participating in a critique as a novice

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

NFTs ... They keep stepping on the same landmine!23 Jun 202200:53:55

Toronto Comics Arts Festival has become the latest comics organization to step on the NFT landmine! When will they learn?! Also, how do you rebuild after a social-media hijacking?

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • TCAF and NFTs
  • Rebuilding after a social-media hijacking
  • Are long stories or short stories better for improving your writing?

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

Hostage-holding for fun and profit16 Jun 202201:03:31

Dave accidentally held his website hostage for 7 days... and gained 30 new Patreon backers! Also, we'll discuss landing-page strategies and much more

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • Dave accidentally held his site hostage for 7 days... and gained thirty new Patreon backers!
  • Landing page strategies
  • UPDATE: Comic Con International
  • UPDATE: Comic shops aren't dead... yet
  • Frequent/Consistent/Significant Patreon posts
  • Dad is living vicariously through a creative kid

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

Ending a comic after 25 years09 Jun 202201:02:11

Cartoonist Dave Kellett asks if it's time to end his comic after 25 years.

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • Ending a comic after 25 years
  • Writing dialogue

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

"Help! I used a digital brush and now I'm not an artist anymore!"02 Jun 202201:06:43

Cartoonists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett share a little Truth about digital art.

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • "Help! I used a digital brush and now I'm not an artist anymore!"
  • Best news websites for comics creators
  • How do I find longform comics
  • One-tier Kickstarter?

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

Haunted by Impostor Syndrome26 May 202200:59:01

Cartoonists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett talk about what to do when you just can't avoid Impostor Syndrome.

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • Impostor Syndrome
  • Support-based Patreon vs Exclusive-reward Patreon
  • UPDATE: Brandon Sanderson's $41m Kickstarter
  • Where to get feedback on your comics
  • Zoop

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

"I can't make time for Patreon rewards!"19 May 202200:55:51

Cartoonists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett talk about what to do when you just can't make time to create Patreon rewards.

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • Can't make time for Patreon rewards?
  • Avoiding overdrawing
  • Update: Pineapple juice
  • Update: Elon Musk's plan to buy Twitter
  • Update: Managing an email newsletter
  • Reruns on social media
  • "When do I need a website?"

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

They can't all be winners06 Jun 202401:09:57

How much of your work would you consider "top tier?" Fifty percent? Twenty percent? And speaking of the top tier, Brad and Dave share a partial list of people they think should be nominated for a Reuben Award this year.

In this episode, Brad and Dave discuss the ratio of their work that they consider to be top-tier. They also talk about the benefits of posting comics panel by panel. Next, they share their lists of cartoonists who should be considered for the golden Reuben Award. They also touch on the ethical dilemma of selling redrawn original art and the importance of original art in the collector's market.

ON TODAY'S SHOW

  • How much work is "top tier"?
  • Posting panels vs pages
  • Who would Brad & Dave pick for the Reuben Award?
  • Redrawing pages to sell as originals?

TAKEAWAYS

  • Pickleball is a fun and inclusive game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
  • The ratio of top-tier work to average work varies for each cartoonist, but striving for improvement over time is important.
  • Posting comics panel by panel is beneficial for mobile readers and helps capture new readers.
  • The Reuben Award is a prestigious recognition in the cartooning industry. Nominations are based on the best work of the year.
  • Sarah Anderson, the creator of Sarah's Scribbles, should be a strong contender for the Reuben Award due to her consistent and unique voice in the industry. The hosts discuss their top picks for cartoonists who should be considered for awards
  • They mention Dana Simpson, Phoebe and Her Unicorn, Tauhid Bondia with Crabgrass, Asher Perlman, Darren Bell, Jonathan and Elizabeth from War & Peas, and several manga cartoonists
  • They also touch on the ethical dilemma of selling redrawn original art and the importance of original art in the collector's market

CHAPTERS

00:00:00 Introduction and Pickleball

00:06:07 Striving for Improvement in Your Work

00:28:49 Nominations for the Rubin Award

00:32:38 Sarah Anderson: A Strong Contender for the Reuben Award

00:34:25 Top Picks for Cartoonists Who Should Be Considered for Awards

00:49:36 The Ethical Dilemma of Selling Redrawn Original Art

 

 

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.

"Do I really need fans?"12 May 202200:57:47

Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar discuss the importance of audience building before a crowdfunding.

ON THIS WEEK'S SHOW...

  • Do I really need a fan base to launch a Kickstarter?
  • Four-panel longform story comics
  • The Four Cs used by a $1b software start-up
  • Balancing SFW and NSFW storytelling
  • Selling plushies and stuffed animals

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

Our Biggest Mistakes05 May 202201:04:16

Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar devote the entire show to discuss the biggest mistakes they made in their career. Also: Brad is launching a six-week session for creators of NSFW comics.

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

Balancing storytelling and personal taste28 Apr 202201:06:12

Cartoonists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett talk about how to balance good storytelling with your own personal taste.

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • Balancing storytelling and personal taste
  • Line weight
  • Top webcomic list sites

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

Livestreaming21 Apr 202201:01:43

Cartoonists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett discuss the pros and cons of livestreaming your comics-creating process. 

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • Livestreaming
  • Giving advice to someone doing negative social media
  • Should you use your own personal email address on newsletters?
  • Visual humor / non sequiturs vs punchlines

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

Nine Patreon Mistakes that are Costing You Money14 Apr 202201:04:20

Cartoonists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett discuss mistakes that comic creators are making on Patron that are costing them money. Today's show is brought to you by Wacom, the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • Stop saying "Support me on Patreon!"
  • People want things for their money — stop talking about what's in it for YOU, and start talking about what's in it for the BACKERS.
  • Get rid of your $1 tier
  • The $2 level is a Support tier. Don't give away rewards at this level
  • Too many tiers
  • Too much CHATTER in your tiers
  • Don't offer Physical rewards
  • Social media messaging  — frequent, consistent and significant
  • Inconsistent delivery — Want a monthly pledge? Then you need to offer a monthly reward.
  • Successful Patreon strategies that work
  • How to UNpublish a Patreon tier
  • Encouraging a young cartoonist

Pro Tips: 15 Things to Post of Patreon When You Don't Know What to Post on Patreon: Great ideas for exclusive rewards

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

"I've tried nothing, and it isn't working!"07 Apr 202201:04:16

Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar talk about how understanding self-publishing can make or break your career in comics. Today's show is brought to you by Wacom, the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • Understanding self-publishing can make or break your career in comics
  • Dividing your readers into groups -- early vs late... active vs passive
  • Kickstarter conundrum

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

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.

Exclusive is not forever31 Mar 202201:07:24

Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar talk about using exclusive Patreon rewards as merchandise. Today's show is brought to you by Wacom, the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • When to turn exclusive Patreon rewards into merchandise
  • Closing loopholes in a story
  • The trials of an Eisner judge
  • Planning a new character design
  • Surviving the ebb and flow of a freelance life

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patrioneon

  • $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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

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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.

How to Build Narrative Tension24 Mar 202201:00:51

Cartoonists Brad Guigar and  Dave Kellett talk about building tension in your writing. Today's show is brought to you by Wacom, the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • Building tension
  • What do we WISH our listeners would ask?
  • What did Brad learn at newspapers?
  • Torn between commissions and comics
  • Losing Patreon support

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the editor of Webcomics.com Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

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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.

How to write a good book title17 Mar 202201:05:45

Cartoonists  Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar talk about writing a great title for you book. Today's show is brought to you by Wacom, the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • Writing the title for a book
  • Writers on social media
  • Brad's prediction on Kickstarter
  • Vertical scroll for NSFW comics
  • Digital rewards vs physical rewards

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the editor of Webcomics.com Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

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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.

These flipping comics are making me crazy!10 Mar 202201:18:31

Cartoonists  Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar talk about how to improve your art by flipping it over. But... do you fix on the flip, or do you flip, flop and then fix? We're flummoxed! Today's show is brought to you by Wacom, the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One 

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • These flippin' comics are driving me crazy!
  • Generic or niche?
  • UPDATE: TopatoCo becomes the first Kickstarter competitor of 2022
  • Bonus panel
  • Artistic Identity Crisis

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Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the editor of Webcomics.com Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

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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.

Survivorship Bias30 May 202401:02:23

We've all heard successful creators complain that younger hopefuls "just don't want to do the hard work." They disregard the complicated nature of achieving their status and dismiss aspiring novices on the basis of one single factor. Survivorship bias is undoubtedly a result of flawed reasoning. ...But is it bad advice?

Brad and Dave discuss survivorship bias in the creative community and its impact on success. They acknowledge that survivorship bias exists but argue that it is not the sole determinant of success. They emphasize the importance of hard work, honing skills, and making adjustments based on feedback. They also discuss external factors that can impact a creative career, such as personal circumstances and societal biases. The hosts share their own experiences and offer advice for aspiring creators. In this part of the conversation, the hosts discuss the importance of perseverance and being consistent in order to achieve success in comics.

Also, they also address the question of working below one's artistic skill level and offer advice on finding a style that balances speed and quality. The hosts then share their thoughts on the transition from traditional to digital art, including the benefits and drawbacks of each. Finally, they discuss the value of selling original art and the potential challenges of leaving a legacy through physical artwork.

ON TODAY'S SHOW

  • Survival bias
  • Working below your artistic skill level
  • Leaving original art in favor of digital

CHAPTERS

00:00:00

Introduction: Dumpster Pools in Philadelphia

00:05:37

Chapter 1: Understanding Survivorship Bias

00:13:06

Chapter 2: The Importance of Hard Work and Skill Development

00:22:52

Chapter 4: Challenging Survivorship Bias and Acknowledging Others' Struggles

00:26:57

Chapter 5: Advice for Aspiring Creators: Listen, Learn, and Adapt

00:31:03

Perseverance and Consistency

00:34:31

Working Below Your Skill Level

00:46:24

Transition to Digital Art

00:48:08

Selling Original Art

00:56:29

Leaving a Legacy Through Artwork

TAKEAWAYS

  • Survivorship bias exists in the creative community, but it is not the only factor that determines success.
  • Hard work, honing skills, and making adjustments based on feedback are crucial for success.
  • External factors, such as personal circumstances and societal biases, can impact a creative career.
  • It is important to be aware of survivorship bias and not dismiss the challenges faced by others.
  • Listening to advice from experienced creators and being open to course corrections can increase the chances of success. Perseverance and consistency are key to achieving success in comics.
  • Finding a balance between speed and quality is important when working below your artistic skill level.
  • Transitioning from traditional to digital art offers benefits in terms of control and quality.
  • Selling original art can be a way to generate income and share your work with others.
  • Leaving a legacy through physical artwork may not always be practical or desired by loved ones.

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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.

Long term success with short comic stories?03 Mar 202200:57:08

Cartoonists  Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett talk about how social media can make you crazy. Today's show is brought to you by Wacom, the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One This week, we talk about building a comics career from unrelated 10-12-page stories

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • Short comic stories
  • Adding animation effects
  • How much work should be done before the Kickstarter?
  • Subscription-based social media
  • Creating a pilot episode for your comic

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the editor of Webcomics.com Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

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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 Bad Tweets Game24 Feb 202201:00:05

Cartoonists  Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar talk about how social media can make you crazy. Today's show is brought to you by Wacom, the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One This week, we're playing the Bad Tweets game — once we can identify lazy social media, we can focus on strategies that work.

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • The Bad Tweets Game
  • Update: Dave HATES being a small-business shipper
  • Update: Dave is going to a SciFi convention!
  • How to respond to a compliment
  • Starting an epic storyline.

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the editor of Webcomics.com Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

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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.

Gumroad's NFT problem17 Feb 202201:03:04

Cartoonists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett discuss the recent self-immolation of Gumroad on Twitter — over NFTs!  Today's show is brought to you by Wacom, the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One After Gumroad, we'll be talking about cartooning after retirement.

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • Gumoad's NFT problem
  • UPDATE: Dave comes out of the podcast closet
  • UPDATE: Bruce Willis got his own category in the '21 Razzies
  • UPDATE: Facebook loses users and reports a $1 billion loss
  • Drawing boards
  • cartooning after retirement
  • Numbering comic-update posts on your website

Possible Gumroad alternatives

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the editor of Webcomics.com Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

ComicLab is hosted on Simplecast, helping podcasters since 2013. with industry-leading publishing, distribution, and sharing tools.

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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.

Social Media is Making Me Crazy10 Feb 202201:14:21

Cartoonists  Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett talk about how social media can make you crazy. Today's show is brought to you by Wacom, the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • Social media is making me crazy!
  • How do I get maximum impact on my first post?
  • Wordless comics
  • How to handle two protagonists
  • Spreading yourself too thin

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the editor of Webcomics.com Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

ComicLab is hosted on Simplecast, helping podcasters since 2013. with industry-leading publishing, distribution, and sharing tools.

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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.

Is fanart legal?03 Feb 202201:11:18

Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar tackle one of the great debates in comics — Is fanart legal? Today's show is brought to you by Wacom! Wacom is the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • Is fan art legal?
  • Should you allow others to do fan art of your characters?
  • Is posting on Reddit worth the effort?
  • Distributing PDFs
  • Should I leave Tumblr?
  • Studio snacks! What are the best comics-friendly refreshments?

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the editor of Webcomics.com Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

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ComicLab is hosted on Simplecast, helping podcasters since 2013. with industry-leading publishing, distribution, and sharing tools.

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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.

Predictions for 202227 Jan 202201:05:16

Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar share their predictions for the new year! How will Kickstarter, Patreon, Cryptocurrency, NFTs and Substack fare in 2022? Today's show is brought to you by Wacom! Wacom is the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • Prediction: Kickstarter
  • Prediction: Patreon will launch a Kickstarter competitor
  • Prediction: Cryptocurrency and NFTs will recede... for different reasons!
  • Prediction: Substack creators who took the signing deal in 2021 will grapple with their "Day 366"
  • Prediction: Comic conventions will attempt a comeback... and have disappointing results
  • Prediction: Paper shortages and shipping delays will continue to vex creators' ability to create physical goods
  • Prediction: Because of the preceding prediction, Patreon's base of creators will take another big jump
  • In a couple years, "Sheldon" will turn 25 — does Dave Kellett have any special plans?
  • What would your character actually *do*?

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the editor of Webcomics.com Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

ComicLab is hosted on Simplecast, helping podcasters since 2013. with industry-leading publishing, distribution, and sharing tools.

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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.

Kickstarter's blockchain announcement20 Jan 202201:02:00

Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar share their thoughts on Kickstarter's recent announcement that they're switching their service to blockchain technology. Today's show is brought to you by Wacom! Wacom is the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • Kickstarter's blockchain announcement
  • Dave's plans for SDCC 2022
  • What if you DON'T want to "make a living from comics"?
  • Social media networking vs Comic con networking

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

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  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the editor of Webcomics.com Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

ComicLab is hosted on Simplecast, helping podcasters since 2013. with industry-leading publishing, distribution, and sharing tools.

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

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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.

Making NSFW Comics with Special Guest Erika Moen13 Jan 202201:35:13

Today's show is brought to you by Wacom! Wacom is the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One This week, Erika Moen joins us for a show dedicated to questions about creating NSFW comics! If you've ever wanted to make sexy comics for the 18+ crowd, this show is for you!

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • Erika Moen's new project focusing on her mental health journey
  • How to build a comfort level with NSFW work
  • The importance of good art in 18+ comics
  • How to draw a vaginal orgasm
  • The legalities of NSFW publishing
  • Audience building for a sex oriented comic
  • Getting feedback on your adults-only comic

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the editor of Webcomics.com Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. Erika Moen's work can be found here. Buy her books here. Her book "Let's Talk About It" is a must-have for parents.

Listen to ComicLab on...

ComicLab is hosted on Simplecast, helping podcasters since 2013. with industry-leading publishing, distribution, and sharing tools.

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  • $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.

Planning Out 202206 Jan 202201:00:38

Today's show is brought to you by Wacom and Comicraft! Wacom is the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One And you're not going to want to miss Comicraft's Jan. 1 sale when all of their fonts are $20.22 each at Comicbookfonts.com This week, Dave and Brad share their plans for the coming year.

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • Comicraft sale
  • Brad's plan for 2022
  • Dave's plan for 2022
  • Kellett's Law of Word Balloon Xs
  • Bolding punctuation

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the editor of Webcomics.com Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

ComicLab is hosted on Simplecast, helping podcasters since 2013. with industry-leading publishing, distribution, and sharing tools.

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

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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.

Drawing naked30 Dec 202101:06:25

Today's show is brought to you by Wacom and Comicraft! Wacom is the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One And you're not going to want to miss Comicraft's Jan. 1 sale when all of their fonts are $20.22 each at Comicbookfonts.com This week, we discuss the role that clothing plays in character design

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • Should my character wear clothes?
  • Changing my name... should I change my brand?
  • Guide to a first-time collaboration
  • Drawing backgrounds

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

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  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the editor of Webcomics.com Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

ComicLab is hosted on Simplecast, helping podcasters since 2013. with industry-leading publishing, distribution, and sharing tools.

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

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  • $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.

Are we 'there' yet?23 May 202401:01:16

How did Brad and Dave know when they'd "made it"? ALSO: Now that you have a website with a blog... what do you write??

Brad shares a heartwarming story about his dad's induction into the Michigan High School Bowling Hall of Fame. They discuss the concept of 'making it' as a cartoonist and the different definitions of success. They also address the challenges of rating one's comic in terms of age appropriateness and content warnings. In this part of the conversation, the hosts discuss how to handle sensitive content on websites and social media platforms. They mention using content warnings, marking sensitive posts, and utilizing tools provided by social media platforms. They also talk about the importance of considering the audience's age range and the different standards and gradations of content in various mediums. In the second part of the conversation, they discuss the use of blogs on websites and how they have evolved over time. They mention the historical use of blogs for SEO purposes and the shift towards social media for quick and easy sharing. They suggest using blogs to share a variety of content, including transcripts of comics, reposts of social media content, and updates on Patreon or other platforms. They emphasize the importance of not overthinking blog content and using the four C's: content, commercial, curation, and kindness.

ON TODAY'S SHOW:

CHAPTERS

00:00:00 Introduction:  Brad's Heartwarming Story

00:07:29 The Definition of 'Making It' as a Cartoonist

00:11:13 Navigating Age Appropriateness and Content Warnings in Comics

00:44:30 The Evolution of Blogs

00:49:27 Using Blogs to Share Content

TAKEAWAYS

  • The concept of 'making it' as a cartoonist is subjective and can vary from person to person.
  • Financial stability is often key to feeling like you've 'made it' as a cartoonist.
  • There is no universal standard for rating comics in terms of age appropriateness and content warnings.
  • Considerations for rating your comic include societal norms, personal values, and the expectations of different platforms.
  • Content warnings can be placed on the cover of your book, the top of your website, or your social media profile page. Consider using content warnings and marking sensitive social media posts to allow readers to view or avoid certain content.
  • Take advantage of built-in tools on social media platforms to flag sensitive content and provide warnings.
  • Be mindful of your audience's age range and consider the different standards and gradations of content in various mediums.
  • Use blogs on websites to share a variety of content, including comic transcripts, reposts of social media content, and updates on Patreon or other platforms.
  • Don't overthink blog content; use the four Cs: content, commercial, curation, and kindness.

You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon

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  • $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.

Happy holidays!23 Dec 202101:01:20

Today's show is brought to you by Wacom and Comicraft! Wacom is the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One And you're not going to want to miss Comicraft's Jan. 1 sale when all of their fonts are $20.22 each at Comicbookfonts.com This week, we discuss the importance of taking a break for the holidays.

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • Holiday content
  • Using Blender for backgrounds -- is it cheating?
  • Wholesome comics
  • Co-creators have left, but want input
  • Banking woes of the indie creator

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the editor of Webcomics.com Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

ComicLab is hosted on Simplecast, helping podcasters since 2013. with industry-leading publishing, distribution, and sharing tools.

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 Nice Gesture16 Dec 202101:13:21

Today's show is brought to you by Wacom and Comicraft! Wacom is the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One And you're not going to want to miss Comicraft's Jan. 1 sale when all of their fonts are $20.22 each at Comicbookfonts.com This week, we discuss all of the hidden challenges in signing a book!

Questions asked and topics covered...

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the editor of Webcomics.com Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

ComicLab is hosted on Simplecast, helping podcasters since 2013. with industry-leading publishing, distribution, and sharing tools.

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.

Composing scenes09 Dec 202101:07:28

Today's show is brought to you by Wacom and Comicraft! Wacom is the maker of the powerful, professional, portable Wacom One And you're not going to want to miss Comicraft's Jan. 1 sale when all of their fonts are $20.22 each at Comicbookfonts.com

This week, we'll discuss composing a scene inside of a panel.

Questions asked and topics covered...

  • Art editing
  • Dave's writing process
  • How to get engagement on social media
  • Releasing a book in January and February
  • Victorian-era Comics History

Today is a great time to bump up your ComicLab membership to the $10 tier! Patreon backers at that level will get exclusive access to livestream recording sessions — as well as an archive of previous livestreams!

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.
  • $10 — Gain access to the ComicLab livestreamed recording sessions (including an archive of past livestreams), plus $5-tier rewards

Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the editor of Webcomics.com Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Listen to ComicLab on...

ComicLab is hosted on Simplecast, helping podcasters since 2013. with industry-leading publishing, distribution, and sharing tools.

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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