Comic Lab

Latest Episodes:

Verbal vs. Visual Mar 13, 2025

Show notes

Brad and Dave discuss finding the right balance between visual and verbal. Dave asks if too much worldbuilding is an excuse to avoid actually writing the story. And a listener asks if it's a good idea to approach your Patreon as a customer-service job.

Today's show

Verbal vs. Visual
UPDATE: DogKickstarter.com
UPDATE: The Wrong Way Show draws Shrek
Worldbuilding vs. actual writing
Is Patreon like a customer service job?

Summary

In this episode, cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar delve into a discussion about the art of storytelling in comics, focusing on the balance between visual and verbal elements. The hosts explore how to effectively convey humor and plot points, emphasizing the importance of skill development in the medium of comics. In this conversation, Brad and Dave explore the intricacies of comic creation, emphasizing the importance of self-critique, the challenges of world-building versus storytelling, and the value of short stories in honing writing skills. They also discuss the excitement and strategies behind running a successful Kickstarter campaign, highlighting community engagement and personal anecdotes. In this conversation, Brad and Dave explore the intersection of customer service skills and creative work, particularly in the context of managing a Patreon. They discuss the importance of empathy, professionalism, and the balance between listening to customer feedback and maintaining creative integrity. Personal anecdotes from their early jobs provide insight into the skills that can be transferred to creative endeavors while emphasizing that the customer's perspective should not dictate creative decisions.

Takeaways

Gardening can be a therapeutic hobby during tough times.
Citrus grafting allows for the creation of unique fruit varieties.
The balance between visual and verbal storytelling is crucial in comics.
Some jokes are best conveyed visually, while others require words.
Skill development is a continuous journey for comic creators.
Reviewing past work helps identify growth and areas for improvement.
Visual humor can create a more substantial impact than verbal humor in specific contexts.
Understanding the audience's expectations is key to compelling storytelling.
Experimentation is essential for growth in creative fields.
Creating a compelling narrative often requires a mix of both visuals and text. Self-critique is essential for growth in comic creation.
Bravery in execution can lead to improvement.
World-building should not overshadow storytelling.
Short stories are crucial for developing writing skills.
Engaging with the community can enhance project visibility.
Mistakes are part of the learning process in comics.
Visual and verbal storytelling require different approaches.
Kickstarter campaigns can be exhausting but rewarding.
Feedback from peers is invaluable for improvement.
The act of writing reveals the true nature of a story. Short stories allow for experimentation in world building.
Customer service skills are valuable in managing Patreon campaigns.
Empathy and professionalism are key in customer interactions.
It's important to assume the best intentions from customers.
Never listen to one reader; always consider the audience as a whole.
The customer's always wrong when it comes to creative decisions.
Feedback from patrons should inform, not dictate, creative choices.
Maintaining creative integrity is essential for artists.
Personal experiences shape our understanding of customer service.
Rhetoric plays a powerful role in communication and engagement.

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.

Happily Writing Tragedy Mar 06, 2025

Show notes

A listener seeks writing advice. How can you motivate readers to engage with a story that has an unhappy ending? Additionally, Dave's new DogKickstarter.com, tips for responding to inquiries from "civilians," and the importance of personal branding when posting on social media.

Today's Show

How to write an unhappy ending
UPDATE: DogKickstarter.com
Questions from civilians
Posting politics on social media

Summary

In this conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar explore the importance of character wants and needs in storytelling, and how to create satisfying yet unhappy endings that resonate with audiences. In this conversation, Dave and Brad discuss various narrative techniques in storytelling, particularly focusing on how to engage audiences through subverting expectations, making journeys worthwhile, and crafting satisfying character arcs. They also touch on the importance of unhappy endings that feel earned, using examples from popular films. Additionally, they share insights on Kickstarter strategies for comic artists, emphasizing the significance of tracking engagement and adapting to audience responses. In this conversation, Brad and Dave explore the complexities of social interactions, particularly in the context of pursuing creative careers. They discuss the importance of understanding the motivations behind casual conversations and the superficial nature of social niceties. The dialogue shifts to the challenges of engaging with audiences on social media, especially regarding political discourse, and the pitfalls of seeking validation through online engagement. They emphasize the value of building a passionate audience over merely chasing numbers, and the dangers of slacktivism, where social media activity gives a false sense of accomplishment without real-world impact.

Takeaways

Writing a tragedy involves the same principles as other stories.
Character Wants and Needs are crucial in storytelling.
Foreshadowing can create a sense of inevitability in narratives.
Emotional hooks are essential for audience engagement.
Not all stories need a happy ending to be satisfying.
Catharsis can come from tragic outcomes.
Characters can have bittersweet endings that resonate emotionally.
The choice of where to end a story defines its genre. Cinematic guilty pleasures can be surprisingly engaging.
Subverting audience expectations can enhance storytelling.
The journey in a narrative is as important as the ending.
Unhappy endings can be satisfying if they feel earned.
Character arcs should lead to emotionally satisfying conclusions.
Kickstarter strategies can significantly impact project success.
Tracking engagement helps identify effective promotional channels.
Building a narrative involves using the same principles for different outcomes.
Friendship and collaboration can enhance creative projects.
Understanding audience expectations is key to effective storytelling. You don't need to justify yourself to others.
Most people are just trying to be polite.
Engagement on social media doesn't always translate to meaningful connections.
It's okay to keep conversations superficial with strangers.
Building a passionate audience is more valuable than a large one.
Political posts can alienate potential fans.
Slacktivism can give a false sense of accomplishment.
Focus on your brand and what you want to communicate.
Real-world actions are more impactful than social media posts.
Everyone is navigating life awkwardly, regardless of age.

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!

Webcomics Revenue Streams Ranked Best to Worst Feb 27, 2025

Show notes

What are independent comic creators' most reliable revenue streams — and which are the worst? Brad ranks them from top to bottom, and Dave shares his own experiences with each. Also, the guys share the strategy that's making Patreon's "Collections" feature a solid income generator.

Today's show

Webcomics Revenue Streams Ranked Best to Worst
UPDATE: USPS Ground Advantage
UPDATE: Patreon Collections
Should you include credits for digital fontmakers in books?

Summary

Cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar delve into the various income streams available to comic creators, comparing crowdfunding platforms like Patreon and Kickstarter, and discussing the importance of commissions, freelance work, and merchandise sales. The conversation wraps up with a light-hearted mention of Comic-Con income and the challenges comic creators face in the industry. In the mid-show updates, Dave Kellett and Brad discuss the significance of USPS Media Mail for shipping and the recent developments in Patreon Collections amidst economic uncertainties. Brad and Dave discuss the economic challenges facing creators, particularly in light of rising costs and potential trade wars. They explore strategies for adapting to these changes, such as adjusting Patreon tiers to accommodate supporters' financial situations. The conversation then shifts to the often-overlooked topic of font credit in comics, questioning why font designers are not acknowledged in the same way as letterers. They emphasize the importance of recognizing the contributions of font creators and suggest that doing so could set a new standard in the industry.

Takeaways

Patreon is a top income stream for creators.
Kickstarter offers big swings in income.
Digital commissions can be lucrative.
Physical rewards on Patreon can be problematic.
Sales of printed merchandise are important.
Comic-Con can be a significant income source.
Understanding income streams is crucial for success. Comic-Con can be profitable but comes with risks.
Digital merchandise sales can provide better profit margins.
Diverse income streams are crucial for financial stability.
Merchandise sales often yield lower profits due to costs.
Day jobs are a valid source of income for many artists.
Media mail is essential for affordable shipping of books.
Patreon collections can be a surprising revenue source.
Economic challenges may impact artists' income streams.
Understanding costs is vital for convention profitability.
Experimenting with new income strategies is important. Economic challenges are impacting creators' income.
Adjusting Patreon tiers can help retain supporters.
Hedging bets is a smart strategy in uncertain times.
Font credit in comics is often overlooked.
Acknowledging font designers could elevate the industry.
Younger creators often follow the practices of established ones.
Listing fonts used in comics could become a new norm.
Digital lettering has changed how fonts are accessed.
Creators should consider the impact of tariffs on their work.
Engaging with supporters through lower tiers can maintain connections.

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!

The Information We Share — And Why We Shouldn't Feb 20, 2025

Show notes

Brad Guigar has categorized the information shared by creative individuals into three groups. Dave Kellett has a couple of his own to contribute. Of the five, only one is useful. Identifying the others can help you avoid making some significant mistakes.

Today's show

Types of information creative people share
UPDATE: Brad Guigar celebrates 25 years in comics
Story pacing

Summary

In this episode, Brad and Dave discuss the information shared among creative individuals, categorizing them into facts, marketing, and herd mentality. The discussion highlights the importance of discerning between genuine facts and marketing tactics. Dave suggests the list should include misinformation and bad actors in the creative community. In this episode, Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar discuss the realities of book signings, networking, and celebrating milestones in one's career, particularly in the comic industry. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences and reflect on the mental health benefits of recognizing achievements. The conversation then shifts to writing advice, focusing on story pacing, exposition, and actionable strategies for aspiring writers to improve their craft.

Takeaways

Sharing information among creatives is essential for growth and learning.
Facts are verifiable truths that can help guide creative decisions.
Marketing often skews perceptions and can lead to poor decision-making.
Herd mentality can mislead creatives into following trends without critical thinking.
Misinformation can come from well-intentioned but uninformed sources.
Bad actors exist in the creative community, and caution is necessary.
Understanding the difference between marketing and facts is crucial for success.
Social media is primarily a marketing tool for many creators. Book signings often don't attract large crowds.
Celebrating career milestones can boost mental health.
Reflecting on past achievements can provide motivation.
Each page of a comic should be satisfying on its own.
Writers should focus on manageable story lengths.
Use visuals effectively to enhance storytelling.
Avoid information dumps in storytelling.
Create tension through micro-tension techniques.
Leave breadcrumbs for readers to follow in the narrative.

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!

"F*** me! That actually worked!" Feb 13, 2025

Show notes

This week's episode is sponsored by Hogan's Alley magazine! We'll discuss those moments in our careers when we said, "F*** me! That actually worked!" Also, a listener writes in to say that they want to take our advice and make the jump to Bluesky, but it causes too much anxiety.

Sponsor

Hogan's Alley magazine sponsors this week's episode! In the next issue, they'll cover the Tijuana Bibles and much more! Get your copy now!

Today's Show

Hogan's Alley magazine
"F*** me! That actually worked!"
UPDATE: Diamond Comics Distributors
UPDATE: The Wrong Way
"Bluesky stresses me out!"

Summary

In this episode, Dave and Brad are pleased to welcome the sponsorship of Hogan's Alley Magazine! The conversation starts with a discussion about unexpected successes in the comics industry, sharing personal anecdotes and insights on what works in webcomics and the importance of niche topics. In this conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad discuss their evolving experiences with monetization in the comic industry, reflecting on their initial skepticism towards various platforms like T-shirts, advertising, and crowdfunding. They share personal anecdotes about their misjudgments regarding new technologies and trends, emphasizing the importance of humility and adaptability in their careers. Two mid-show updates touch on the recent bankruptcy of Diamond Comics Distributors and their new show, The Wrong Way. In this conversation, Brad and Dave discuss the challenges and anxieties surrounding social media for artists, particularly in building an online presence while focusing on their craft. They explore the importance of self-promotion, the consequences of delaying engagement with social media, and the potential of new platforms like Blue Sky. The discussion emphasizes the need for artists to balance their creative work with the realities of marketing and audience building while addressing the mental health aspects of sharing their work online.

Takeaways

Hogan's Alley Magazine is a significant resource for comic history.
Niche topics in webcomics can lead to unexpected success.
Webrings can significantly boost site traffic and engagement.
Comics history is often overlooked but is vital for understanding the medium.
The internet favors focused, passionate content over general interest.
Understanding your audience is key to successful cartooning.
Comics can be both serious and joyful, reflecting their cultural impact. T-shirts as a monetization strategy were initially surprising.
Advertising proved to be a lucrative avenue for comics.
Skepticism towards Kickstarter was common in its early days.
Technological advancements can change the way comics are created and consumed.
Vertical scrolling comics have become a preferred format for mobile readers.
Humility is crucial in recognizing when to adapt to new trends.
Keeping an eye on peers can lead to valuable learning opportunities.
The bankruptcy of Diamond Comics marks a significant moment in the industry.
Independent comics are evolving beyond traditional distribution methods.
Embracing discomfort can lead to growth and new opportunities. Focus on improving your craft before engaging on social media.
If social media causes anxiety, it's okay to wait.
Blue Sky is currently a growing platform for audience building.
Social media fatigue is a common issue for artists.
Self-promotion is essential for making a living from art.
Building an audience takes time and effort.
Sharing your work gets easier with practice.
Consider the consequences of delaying social media engagement.
It's important to find a balance between art and marketing.
Artists can impact the world even as a hobby.

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!

Business Advice: Embrace Discomfort Feb 06, 2025

Show notes

We're heading into a year promising significant upheaval — in business, social media, publishing, and more. But, after twenty-five years of self-publishing, cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar have learned an important lesson: Discomfort is crucial in growing as an artist — and as a businessperson.

Today's show

Embrace discomfort
Listifications on Bluesky — https://bsky.app/profile/listifications.app

Summary

In this conversation, cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar explore the importance of discomfort in personal and artistic growth, emphasizing that taking risks is essential for creativity. The duo reflects on their experiences in the comic industry, discussing the challenges of adapting to change and the innovator's dilemma faced by established artists. They conclude with insights on the necessity of continuous learning and adaptation in a rapidly evolving landscape. In this conversation, Dave and Brad discuss the challenges and opportunities of innovation in creative careers, emphasizing the importance of embracing discomfort and taking risks. They explore various strategies for creative growth, including collaboration and mentorship, and share insights on navigating social media dynamics, particularly with new platforms like Blue Sky. The discussion highlights the significance of being proactive in one's career and the emotional complexities of online interactions.

Takeaways

Discomfort is essential for growth as artists and individuals.
Creativity thrives in uncomfortable situations.
It's important to embrace change and adapt in the comic industry.
The innovator's dilemma can hinder progress in established fields.
Continuous learning is crucial for long-term success.
Taking risks can lead to new opportunities and growth.
Complacency can be detrimental to artistic development.
Understanding the market is key to adapting one's work.
Creativity is a superpower that can be harnessed through discomfort. Innovation can be hindered by comfort in established success.
Bill Holbrook exemplified foresight in adapting to new media.
Taking risks in creative projects can lead to personal fulfillment.
Exploring new art methods can rejuvenate creativity.
Collaboration can enhance productivity and creativity.
Embracing discomfort is essential for growth in any career.
Social media dynamics require careful navigation to maintain presence.
Understanding audience reactions on social media is crucial.
Mentorship can provide fresh perspectives and energy.
Planning for future projects can prevent stagnation in creativity.

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!

How to start a webcomic in 2025 Jan 30, 2025

Show notes

Start your webcomic using the latest platforms, monetization methods, and social media strategies. If you're launching a new comic in 2025, this episode has all the information you'll need to get it off the ground!

How to start a webcomic in 2025

Don’t try to “game” your readership. Write about what YOU like
Building readership takes time and consistency. Creating for love is essential in the early years.
Focus on writing as the core of comic creation. Focus on creating comics for the love of the craft. The first comics may only be seen by you; embrace the process.
Mistakes in the early stages are recoverable.
Copyright
Own and control your work
You do NOT need to be on Webtoon/Tapas
Social media presence is important for comic creators. Today, that’s Bluesky and Substack. ComicLab has Collections that provide strategies for each platform** They’re free to members and available at a one-time fee for others.
Be active on social media to build your audience. Four Cs
How many updates FCS
Persistence is key; it's a marathon, not a sprint. If you need a schedule to post regularly, set a schedule and stick to it.
Don't rush into monetization; it takes time to build a following. Starting on Patreon or Kickstarter too soon is a common problem that derails a lot of creators.
Develop your aesthetic by studying good comics.
You don’t need a website immediately, but you’ll need one eventually. Start planning now.
Seek honest feedback to improve your work.
Reach out to other comics creators who are doing stuff that’s similar to yours and build networks.
Do it for love

Summary

In this episode of ComicLab, hosts Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar discuss the importance of passion in creating comics, the challenges of building a readership, and the necessity of starting your comic journey despite fears and anxieties. The conversation emphasizes the value of maintaining independence as creators and finding an audience that resonates with your unique themes rather than chasing trends. They address the challenges and strategies for comic artists navigating social media. They emphasize the importance of choosing the right platforms, such as Blue Sky and Substack, over TikTok for comic promotion. The hosts introduce the 'Four C's' of social media—Content, Curation, Commercial, and Kindness—as essential for building an audience. They also share acronyms like SWIG and FCS to guide effective promotion and posting frequency. The conversation concludes with a reminder that building a successful comic takes time and persistence, likening it to a marathon rather than a sprint. In this episode, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett discuss the essential steps for starting a webcomic in 2025. They emphasize the importance of focusing on the craft before monetization, developing a unique aesthetic, and the necessity of having a personal website. The hosts also highlight the value of networking, seeking feedback from peers in the comic community, and navigating the evolving landscape of social media and comic publishing.

Takeaways

Creating comics should stem from personal passion, not trends.
Building a readership is a gradual process that requires time and consistency.
Mistakes in the early stages of comic creation are normal and recoverable.
Your comic's idea is less important than your unique execution of it.
Independence in comic creation allows for greater control over your work.
Social media platforms are evolving; choose wisely for engagement.
Focus on writing as the core of comic creation.
Engagement and growth are key metrics for success in comics.
Don't let fear of theft prevent you from sharing your work. TikTok may not be suitable for comic artists.
Blue Sky and Substack are better platforms for engagement.
Social media requires a balance of content, curation, and kindness.
Persistence is crucial for building an audience.
Curation can enhance networking opportunities.
Promote by saying why your work is good.
Frequent, consistent, and significant updates are key.
Avoid rushing into monetization too soon.
Missing updates is forgivable; focus on quality instead.
Building a crowd is essential before seeking funding. Focusing on early monetization can distract from improving your craft.
Having a small number of Patreon backers can lead to poor decision-making.
It's crucial to develop your aesthetic by studying successful comics.
A personal website is essential for maintaining control over your work.
Networking with other comic creators can provide valuable feedback.
Feedback from peers is more beneficial than casual opinions from non-creators.
The comic landscape is evolving, and adaptability is key.
Do it for the love of comics to sustain motivation.
There are more opportunities in comics now than ever before.
Building a community around your work can enhance your growth as an artist.

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!

Introducing: The Wrong Way! Jan 23, 2025

Show notes

Cartoonists Brad Guigar, Dave Kellett and Kevin McShane are teaming up on a new show — The Wrong Way! We'll teach you how to draw your favorite cartoon characters without getting sued over copyright theft! Along the way, we'll share tips, tell stories, and roast each other mercilessly. Pay attention and you might learn how to draw The Wrong Way!

Today's Show

Wrong way
Clever vs funny

Summary

In this episode, Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett introduce fellow cartoonist Kevin McShane, announce their new YouTube show, 'The Wrong Way,' where they draw beloved characters in a legally safe manner. The conversation delves into the creative process behind the show, the dynamics of their friendship, and how they engage with their audience through Patreon, offering insights into the art of cartooning and the importance of community. In this conversation, the hosts delve into various themes surrounding their creative process, the audience for their new show, and the importance of learning from each other. They discuss the technical aspects of drawing, the competitive spirit that drives them to improve, and the launch of their new project, The Wrong Way Show, including its crowdfunding strategy. The conversation culminates in a discussion about the nuances of humor writing, specifically the difference between cleverness and funniness. In this conversation, the hosts explore the nuances of humor, particularly the distinction between cleverness and funniness. They discuss the importance of surprise in humor, the different levels of humor, and how experience shapes a comedian's ability to write effectively. The dialogue emphasizes the need for continuous improvement and the role of audience feedback in developing comedic skills.

Takeaways

The Wrong Way Show aims to teach drawing techniques while entertaining.
Friendship and camaraderie enhance the creative process.
Engaging with the audience is crucial for building a community.
Patreon offers a platform for deeper interaction with fans.
The creative process involves trial, error, and humor.
Constructive critique is essential in artistic growth.
The show combines entertainment with educational content.
Collaboration among artists can lead to innovative ideas. The deeper content on Patreon includes art supplies and business philosophies.
The Wrong Way Show is aimed at both beginners and experienced artists.
Learning from each other's techniques enhances the creative process.
Using new tools can be a challenge but also an opportunity for growth.
The competitive spirit among the hosts drives them to improve their work.
Crowdfunding is essential for projects that require significant time and effort.
Building an audience over years allows for successful project launches.
The difference between clever and funny is crucial in humor writing.
Cleverness is intellectual, while funniness is visceral and felt in the gut.
The Wrong Way Show promises to be a fun and engaging experience for viewers. Funny transcends cleverness and evokes genuine laughter.
Improv training is invaluable for honing comedic skills.
Learning to analyze comedy can diminish the enjoyment of it.
Cleverness is intellectual, while funniness is instinctual.
Surprise is a key element that elevates humor.
Puns can be effective if they have double meanings.
Writers must push beyond cleverness to achieve true humor.
Experience and practice are crucial in comedy writing.
Writing humor is different from being funny in real life.
Continuous self-assessment is essential for growth in comedy.

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!

Social Media: Business or Pleasure? Jan 16, 2025

Show notes

A ComicLab member complained about following too many people on Bluesky. It was too difficult for them to cultivate a feed that suited their interests! This brought up a topic that has Dave and Brad divided: Are you on social media for business or pleasure?

Today's Show

You're not on social media to read
UPDATE: Spice Rack Comics webring (NSFW) — special thanks to Matt Sowers at RCSI Publishing
UPDATE: Dave and Brad's transposed faces
Started too soon on Patreon

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar explore various themes related to comics, social media, and community building. They discuss the challenges of navigating Bluesky Starter Packs and the innovative idea of reviving web rings to foster community among comic creators. Their humorous banter and differing perspectives provide valuable insights for aspiring cartoonists and social media users. In the following conversation, they explore the dynamics of collaboration in creative projects, particularly focusing on establishing a webring for cross-promotion among cartoonists. They discuss the importance of lists, group agreements, and the balance between individual creativity and collective efforts. The conversation also delves into the challenges of managing a Patreon account, the significance of audience building, and the lessons learned from past experiences in comic creation. Ultimately, they emphasize the value of growth and learning from one's creative journey.

Takeaways

An authoritative accent can shape perceptions.
Social media should be used strategically, not just for reading.
Starter packs can lead to overwhelming follow lists.
Curating your social media feed is essential for focus.
Building a community is crucial for comic creators.
Webrings can enhance cross-promotion among creators.
Engagement on social media can lead to audience growth.
Being selective with follows can prevent overwhelm.
Humor and personality can enhance social interactions.
Experimenting with new strategies can yield positive results. Collaboration can enhance creativity but comes with challenges.
A webring can be a powerful tool for cross-promotion.
Clear agreements are essential in group projects.
The benefits of collaboration can outweigh the costs.
It's important to have a process for ad approval in a web ring.
Patreon should be approached with a focus on audience building first.
Reflecting on past experiences can lead to growth.
There is no such thing as wasted time in creative pursuits.
Learning from mistakes is crucial for future success.
Evaluating your creative direction is important after years of work.

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!

Predictions and goals for 2025 Jan 09, 2025

Show notes

As we begin a new year, cartoonists Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar make their predictions for 2025 and share their goals for the next twelve months.

Predictions

DAVE: Business planning anxiety
BRAD: Because of Dave’s prediction, the winners will be people who help address that anxiety. (That’s us!) Be the distraction/escape people need; they won’t forget you.
DAVE: Bluesky at 50M by the end of the year
BRAD: Substack gains prominence — rises to Kickstarter/Patreon levels
DAVE: we’ll all be playing reactionary, whack-a-mole life choices for the first two years of the trump admin. Until the midterm elections, when it might calm slightly.
BRAD: AI will go mainstream and start to gain acceptance among artists and writers
DAVE: Kickstarter and Patreon continue to be market leaders. No change on the horizon for that
BRAD: Printing is on the decline under tariffs. And we might be working with small US printers to do smaller books.
DAVE: in publishing, YA & kids will continue to dominate the career path of published cartoonists.
BRAD: Non-social media options will grow, hopefully including RSS
DAVE: Webtoons might begin to fall apart in the US market. Their Hollywood goals are not working, and they were playing the long game toward THAT in terms of accumulating debt
DAVE: I will have to raise prices on all my books. Or cut features in my books. No more metallic foils, spot gloss, or bookmarks…you’re just getting a bare-bones book.

Goals

BRAD: Survive
DAVE: Survive
BRAD: EiAD v3 or Webcomics Handbook
DAVE: ANATOMY OF DOGS Kickstarter
BRAD: Build Spice Rack Comics into an example of what you can do with the webring / collective concept. Suggest that this is the time to start building quasi-collectives.
DAVE: Triple down on Bluesky in the 4-6 years before enshittification
BRAD: Lean into KDP for After Dark books
DAVE: Triple down on Bluesky
DAVE: Launch and start building THE WRONG WAY. I have been planning it for over a year.
DAVE: Focus on one of the few things I can control: my family's happiness and health. Outlive the fuckers and try not to let them steal my joy. I find solace in friendships at Alaska Camp and SDCC.
DAVE: if we can’t do books, do we do more smaller Quickstarter?
DAVE: Is this the time to start on Substack?

Summary

In this episode, the hosts discuss a range of topics, including a personal quest for a long-lost book, Wimpy the Wellington, predictions for the comic industry in 2025, the anxiety surrounding business planning for cartoonists, and the evolving role of cartoonists in providing relief during turbulent times. They also explore the rise of new platforms like Blue Sky and Substack and the potential mainstream acceptance of AI in the creative fields. In this conversation, Brad Guigar and his co-host discuss the evolving role of AI in creative processes, emphasizing its potential as an assistant rather than a replacement for artists and writers.

They make predictions for 2025, including the impact of tariffs on print publishing, the continued dominance of YA and kids' books, and the uncertain future of Webtoons in the U.S. market. The discussion also touches on the concept of 'shrinkflation' in publishing, where features may be reduced due to economic pressures.

Ultimately, both hosts express a shared goal of survival in a changing industry landscape. In this episode, the hosts discuss their goals and predictions for 2025, focusing on the importance of social media platforms like Blue Sky, the launch of a new project called The Wrong Way, and the innovative approach of Spice Rack Comics. They also touch on adapting to market changes, personal goals, and the significance of community support in the creative industry.

Takeaways

Cartoonists have a significant impact on their audience's mental health.
Business planning in the comic industry is becoming increasingly complex.
The rise of platforms like Blue Sky may change social media dynamics.
Substack is poised to become a major player in content monetization.
Anxiety will be a common theme in the coming years for creators.
AI's acceptance in the creative industry is on the horizon.
The importance of community and support among creators is paramount.
Predictions for the future can help guide current decisions.
The role of humor and distraction in art is vital during tough times. AI will be used as a writing assistant, not a replacement.
Ethically sourced AI can enhance creative processes.
Print publishing is expected to contract significantly due to tariffs.
YA and kids' books will continue to dominate the market.
Webtoons may struggle in the U.S. market moving forward.
Shrinkflation will affect the features of published books.
Survival is the primary goal for creators in 2025.
Economic changes will force a reevaluation of publishing strategies.
The creative industry must adapt to new market dynamics.
The future of comics relies on navigating these challenges. Tripling down on Blue Sky is a strategic move for growth.
The Wrong Way project is set to launch in 2025.
Spice Rack Comics aims to innovate web rings and promote collaboration.
Adapting to market changes is crucial for sustainability.
Personal goals should focus on what can be controlled.
Community support is essential for success in creative fields.
Digital income sources are becoming increasingly important.
Maintaining joy and personal happiness is a priority.
Nostalgia can be a refuge during uncertain times.
Building a supportive network can enhance creative endeavors.