What does it take to turn a haunted hotel idea into a hit indie comic? 👻📖

In this conversation, AJ Reimann interviews David Flores, an illustrator and co-creator of the comic 'Do Not Disturb'. They discuss David's journey from screenwriting to comic illustration, the creative process behind their projects, and the importance of collaboration in the comic book industry. They also touch on the challenges of publishing, the fear of rejection, and the freedom that comes with completing a creative project. AJ shares his own experiences in comic writing and the motivations behind his work, emphasizing the learning process and the joy of collaboration. In this engaging conversation, David and AJ explore the world of comics, storytelling, and the creative process. They discuss the importance of collaboration within the indie community, share personal anecdotes about their journeys as creators, and offer valuable advice for aspiring artists and writers. The dialogue flows into fun questions about comic book inspirations, favorite superheroes, and the idea of living in a comic book universe. They also touch on future projects and the significance of gratitude in their creative endeavors.

We dive into:

Writing comics vs screenplays

Finding the right creative collaborators

Pitching to publishers like Invader Comics

Horror storytelling & neo-noir influences

Advice for first-time comic creators

Whether you’re an aspiring comic creator or a fan of indie horror comics, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration.

📸 Connect with David: @sicmonkie in insta

📘 Do Not Disturb – Issue One releases January 28

📰 Read more on Substack

🎙️ Subscribe for weekly comic interviews, hauls, and creator stories

https://linktr.ee/Talkin_Comics_Podcast

Host: A.J. Reimann

Sponsors:

• AMPED Comics – Use code TCP10 for 10% off https://ampedcomics.com/discount/TCP10

• Allegra Printing – Printing The Chronicles of Panel Pete

👉🖨 For your comic book printing needs please visit Allegra Travers City (Tell them AJ Sent You) https://www.allegramarketingprint.com...

Printing-Comic Books-Fliers-Prints-Business Cards-Rack Cards-Promotional Items-Etc

🗨 Get your FREE preview of The Chronicles of Panel Pete https://talkincomicspodcast.substack.com/

👉 Watch the Panel Pete trailer now https://youtu.be/z1zDZuO_8hk

👉 Hit the Kickstarter “Remind Me” button to follow the project launch (coming early 2026). https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/641500179/the-chronicles-of-panel-pete

Hit like, subscribe, and check out all things Panel Pete below!

https://linktr.ee/Talkin_Comics_Podcast

Chapters

00:00 From Screenwriting to Comic Creation

02:29 Collaborative Writing: The Process Behind 'Do Not Disturb'

05:41 Pitching Ideas and Finding a Publisher

08:44 The Evolution of Storytelling in Comics

11:51 Learning and Growing in the Comic Industry

16:07 The Journey of Creation

23:06 Collaboration and Community in Comics

31:24 Navigating Publishing Options

43:17 From Hobby to Professional: The Evolution of a Writer

44:22 Navigating Production and Distribution Challenges

46:15 The Fear of Rejection in Creative Pursuits

48:44 The Importance of Believing in Your Work

52:56 Advice for Aspiring Creators

59:19 The Journey of a Storyteller

01:04:19 Fun Questions and Personal Favorites

01:10:00 Superpowers and Culinary Dreams

01:13:39 Creating a Pizza Shop in Asgard

01:15:44 Comic Book Sidekicks and Pizza Delivery

01:17:22 The Journey of Panel Pete

01:22:49 Future Comic Book Ideas and Inspirations

01:27:42 Giving Back to the Community Through...

Welcome back to Talkin' Comics Episode 79! This week AJ and Annkhan dive into weekly comic pulls, favorite reads, and a deep look at AJ’s Journey Into Mystery / Mighty Thor reading challenge—including epic collections, omnibuses, and classic Asgard tales.

We also introduce a new recurring segment, This Week in Comic History, explore comic-inspired board game trivia, and battle it out in a fun This or That: Comic Board Game Edition. Plus, we talk upcoming conventions, Substack exclusives, and what’s coming next for The Chronicles of Panel Pete.

Host: A.J. Reimann

Co-Host: Annakhan

👉 Subscribe for weekly comics, trivia, history, and behind-the-scenes comic creator talk

👉 Get a FREE preview & blog version of this episode on Substack https://talkincomicspodcast.substack.com/

👉 Watch the Panel Pete trailer now https://youtu.be/z1zDZuO_8hk

👉 Hit the Kickstarter “Remind Me” button to follow the project launch (coming early 2026). https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/641500179/the-chronicles-of-panel-pete

Hit like, subscribe, and check out all things Panel Pete below!

https://linktr.ee/Talkin_Comics_Podcast

Sponsors:

• AMPED Comics – Use code TCP10 for 10% off https://ampedcomics.com/discount/TCP10

• Allegra Printing – Printing The Chronicles of Panel Pete

👉🖨 For your comic book printing needs please visit Allegra Travers City (Tell them AJ Sent You) https://www.allegramarketingprint.com...

Printing-Comic Books-Fliers-Prints-Business Cards-Rack Cards-Promotional Items-Etc

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

01:48 Comic Conventions and Events

04:36 Weekly Comic Polls and New Releases

10:13 Reading Journey and Comic Collections

16:56 Gaming and VR Experiences

20:45 This Week in Comic History

23:33 Trivia and Question Time

37:06 This or That Game Discussion

45:14 Future Plans and Wrap-Up

#TalkingComics #ComicPodcast #ComicBoardGames #MarvelComics #DCComics #ComicTrivia #ThorOmnibus #JourneyIntoMystery #ComicHistory #BoardGameTrivia #WeeklyComicPulls #SubstackComics #PanelPete

Making comics is the dream—but can it actually pay the bills?

In this episode of Talking Comics, AJ Reimann sits down with Lauren Hazel (aka @knigtsofg) to break down the real business of comics, publishing, conventions, and creative survival. From why comics are called “the ghetto of publishing” to the infamous “chicken sandwich test,” Lauren pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to build a sustainable career as a creator.

We cover:

• Why talent alone isn’t enough

• The true cost of conventions

• Marketing vs sales for creators

• Why most creators lose money

• How to think like a business, not a hobbyist

If you’re a writer, artist, indie creator, or thinking about comics as a career — this episode is required listening.

📸 Follow Lauren on Insta and Tik Toc @knigthsofg

👉 Subscribe for more creator interviews & comic industry truth https://linktr.ee/Talkin_Comics_Podcast

👉 Watch the Panel Pete trailer now https://youtu.be/z1zDZuO_8hk

🗨 Get your FREE preview of The Chronicles of Panel Pete https://talkincomicspodcast.substack.com/

👉 Hit the Kickstarter “Remind Me” button to follow the project launch (coming early 2026). https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/641500179/the-chronicles-of-panel-pete

Sponsors:

• AMPED Comics – Use code TCP10 for 10% off https://ampedcomics.com/discount/TCP10

• Allegra Printing – Printing The Chronicles of Panel Pete

🖨 For your comic book printing needs please visit Allegra Travers City (Tell them AJ Sent You) https://www.allegramarketingprint.com...

Printing-Comic Books-Fliers-Prints-Business Cards-Rack Cards-Promotional Items-Etc

Chapters

00:00 Intro

03:06 Navigating Corporate Approval Processes

07:30 The Impact of COVID on Film and TV Production

10:43 Understanding the Comic Book Industry

13:30 The Evolution of Comics and Manga

16:19 Financial Realities for Creators

19:27 Marketing and Conventions for Creators

29:08 Creating an Educational Community for Creatives

30:12 Understanding the Comic Industry Dynamics

31:46 The Financial Realities of Comic Publishing

34:05 The Importance of Marketing in Creative Ventures

39:19 Navigating Contracts and Rights in Publishing

42:21 Understanding Your Audience and Their Needs

43:47 Building Relationships Through Marketing

49:41 Challenges in the Comic Industry Today

52:37 The Reality of Comic Book Stores and Conventions

59:09 Leveraging Email for Audience Engagement

01:11:39 Finding Your Audience: Strategies and Insights

01:26:20 Comic Characters and Personal Favorites

01:28:39 Current Comic Series and Recommendations

01:30:16 Living in Comic Book Universes

01:33:08 Superpowers and Sidekicks

01:35:54 Life as a Comic Book

01:37:34 Marketing in the Comic Industry

#TalkingComics #LaurenHazel #knightsofg #ComicCreators

#IndieComics #ComicBookPodcast #CreativeBusiness

#MakeComicsNotExcuses #ChickenSandwichTest

It’s Episode 77 of Talking Comics, and we’re kicking off 2026 with comic goals, blind bag chaos, and some serious collector frustrations.

We break down:

Major blind bag defects (glued comics, spine damage & missing variants)

New Year comic resolutions for 2026

AJ’s Thor reading challenge (one Thor comic a day!)

Weekly comic pulls & favorite reads

New Year comic trivia & This or That

Updates on The Chronicles of Panel Pete

📖 Get a FREE preview of our comic, The Chronicles of Panel Pete, on Substack https://talkincomicspodcast.substack.com/

🎬 Watch the trailer & full episodes on YouTube https://youtu.be/z1zDZuO_8hk

🎧 Listen wherever you get podcasts

👉 Like, subscribe, and tell us your comic goals for 2026! https://linktr.ee/Talkin_Comics_Podcast

👉 Hit the Kickstarter “Remind Me” button to follow the project launch (coming early 2026). https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/641500179/the-chronicles-of-panel-pete

Sponsors:

• AMPED Comics – Use code TCP10 for 10% off https://ampedcomics.com/discount/TCP10

• Allegra Printing – Printing The Chronicles of Panel Pete

👉🖨 For your comic book printing needs please visit Allegra Travers City (Tell them AJ Sent You) https://www.allegramarketingprint.com...

Printing-Comic Books-Fliers-Prints-Business Cards-Rack Cards-Promotional Items-Etc

Chapters

00:00 New Year Reflections and Background Changes

04:14 Comic Book Pulls and Weekly Reads

10:05 Reading Goals and Comic Resolutions

14:17 Media Consumption and Gaming Updates

15:24 Blind Bag Openings and Quality Issues

30:10 New Year's Trivia and Fun Discussions

#TalkingComics

#ComicPodcast

#ComicCollectors

#BlindBags

#ComicBooks

#MarvelComics

#DCComics

#ThorComics

#NewYearComics

#IndieComics

🗨 Get your FREE preview of The Chronicles of Panel Pete https://talkincomicspodcast.substack.com/

Welcome back to Talkin' Comics! This week, AJ sits down with Mr. Fish Comics, an indie comics creator known for his incredible work ethic, creative storytelling, and honest insights into the world of comics.

We dive deep into:

The indie comic creation process

Script changes, collaboration, and lettering

Comic convention wins, losses, and lessons

Pricing comics, selling at cons, and creator burnout

Building a sustainable life in comics

Whether you’re a creator, collector, or comic fan, this episode is packed with real-world advice and unforgettable stories.

🎙️ Subscribe for weekly comic talk, interviews, trivia, and more!

👉 Watch the Panel Pete trailer now https://youtu.be/z1zDZuO_8hk

Sponsors:

• AMPED Comics – Use code TCP10 for 10% off https://ampedcomics.com/discount/TCP10

• Allegra Printing – Printing The Chronicles of Panel Pete

👉🖨 For your comic book printing needs please visit Allegra Travers City (Tell them AJ Sent You) https://www.allegramarketingprint.com...

Printing-Comic Books-Fliers-Prints-Business Cards-Rack Cards-Promotional Items-Etc

👉 Hit the Kickstarter “Remind Me” button to follow the project launch (coming early 2026). https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/641500179/the-chronicles-of-panel-pete

Hit like, subscribe, and check out all things Panel Pete below!

https://linktr.ee/Talkin_Comics_Podcast

Chapters

00:00 Travel Tales and Family Connections

01:33 Comic Con Experiences and Recognition

04:33 Creative Collaborations and Script Changes

05:20 Artistic Process and Storytelling

08:18 Overcoming Challenges and Personal Growth

11:37 The Business of Comics and Conventions

14:30 Advice for Aspiring Creators

01:14:01 The Power of Collaboration

01:17:27 Creative Storytelling and Puzzles

01:21:27 The Lore of Characters

01:25:13 The Excitement of Comic Creation

01:30:25 The Journey of Printing Comics

01:34:22 The Joy of Comic Collecting

01:38:41 Favorite Characters and Inspirations

01:42:24 The Indie Comic Scene

01:46:19 The Art of Cover Design

01:50:16 The Challenges of Comic Creation

01:54:11 The Future of Comic Projects

01:58:12 Final Thoughts and Farewell

#TalkingComics

#IndieComics

#ComicPodcast

#MrFishComics

#ComicConLife

#IndieCreators

#MakingComics

#ComicBookCommunity

Celebrate the holidays with Talking Comics Episode 75, our festive Christmas comic book special! 🎄📚

AJ and Annakhan dive into weekly comic pulls, Harley Quinn covers, Thor deep dives, blind bag surprises, holiday trivia, and Christmas-themed “This or That.”

We talk classic and modern comics, Christmas comic history, Thor reading goals, convention finds, holiday gifts, and plenty of comic banter. Whether you’re a Marvel fan, DC fan, or just love comics during the holidays—this episode has something for you!

🎁 Sponsor Shoutouts

• AMP Comics – Use code TCP10 for 10% off https://ampedcomics.com/discount/TCP10

• Allegra Printing – Printing comics, cards, rack cards & more https://www.allegramarketingprint.com...

Printing-Comic Books-Fliers-Prints-Business Cards-Rack Cards-Promotional Items-Etc

👉 Hit the Kickstarter “Remind Me” button to follow the project launch (coming early 2026). https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/641500179/the-chronicles-of-panel-pete

Hit like, subscribe, and check out all things Panel Pete below!

https://linktr.ee/Talkin_Comics_Podcast

👉 Watch the Panel Pete trailer now https://youtu.be/z1zDZuO_8hk

🎄 Happy Holidays & Happy New Year from Talking Comics!

Chapters

00:00 Weekly Comic Pulls and Highlights

07:00 Diving into Comic Reading Goals

11:06 Convention Recap and Comic Finds

15:21 Christmas Gifts and Unboxing

19:58 Games and Shows Watched

22:14 Blind Bag Openings and Surprises

26:05 Comic Book Trivia Fun

35:39 This or That Game

40:42 Wrapping Up the Episode

#TalkingComics #ComicBookPodcast #ChristmasComics #HolidayComics

#MarvelComics #DCComics #HarleyQuinn #Thor

#ComicCollectors #WeeklyPulls #ComicTrivia #PodcastLife

Welcome back to Talkin' Comics! This week, AJ Reimann sits down with Dave Franchini, longtime comic creator and former publisher at Zenescope Entertainment, to talk all things indie comics, Kickstarter, and what it really takes to survive as a creator-owned publisher.

Dave shares his journey from intern to publisher, how he balances multiple books at once, why Kickstarter is both essential and exhausting, and how conventions, collectibles, and community fuel indie success. We also dive into writing process, artist collaboration, marketing struggles, and the reality of comic burnout—without losing the love of the medium.

Whether you're a comic creator, Kickstarter backer, or lifelong fan, this episode pulls back the curtain on the modern indie comics grind.

🎙️ Hosted by AJ Reimann

Follow Dave at https://weirdbrainentertainment.com/

📸 https://www.instagram.com/weird_brain_entertainment/

👉 Watch the Panel Pete trailer now https://youtu.be/z1zDZuO_8hk

Sponsors:

• AMPED Comics – Use code TCP10 for 10% off https://ampedcomics.com/discount/TCP10

• Allegra Printing – Printing The Chronicles of Panel Pete

👉🖨 For your comic book printing needs please visit Allegra Travers City (Tell them AJ Sent You) https://www.allegramarketingprint.com...

Printing-Comic Books-Fliers-Prints-Business Cards-Rack Cards-Promotional Items-Etc

🗨 Get your FREE preview of The Chronicles of Panel Pete https://talkincomicspodcast.substack.com/

👉 Hit the Kickstarter “Remind Me” button to follow the project launch (coming early 2026). https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/641500179/the-chronicles-of-panel-pete

Hit like, subscribe, and check out all things Panel Pete below!

https://linktr.ee/Talkin_Comics_Podcast

Chapters

00:00 Kickstarter Strategy and Comic Production

02:58 Dave Franchini's Journey in Comics

09:10 The Creative Process and Collaboration

21:36 Writing Techniques and Character Development

24:12 Crafting Comics: The Writing Process

28:51 Navigating the Convention Scene

32:37 Marketing Strategies for Creators

33:42 The Allure of Collectible Cards

38:59 The Challenges of Comic Production

48:21 The Challenges of Marketing in Creative Spaces

50:41 Navigating Self-Doubt and Building an Audience

55:27 Advice for Aspiring Creatives

59:47 Insights on Getting Published and Pitching Ideas

01:09:53 Pitching Unique Story Ideas and Upcoming Projects

01:14:02 Creative Inspirations and New Projects

01:15:24 Networking and Collaboration in the Comic Industry

01:16:49 Pitching Ideas and Storytelling Techniques

01:17:52 The Journey of Podcasting and Content Creation

01:18:55 The Importance of Community and Support

01:21:33 Fun Questions and Personal Insights

01:22:11 Favorite Characters and Influences

01:23:45 Current Trends in Comics and Reading Preferences

01:25:47 Living in a Comic Book Universe

01:28:30 Superpowers and Sidekicks

01:29:37 Final Thoughts and Future Endeavors

#TalkingComics #IndieComics #ComicPodcast #KickstarterComics #ComicCreators #panelpete

#DaveFranchini #SelfPublishing #ComicBooks #Zenescope #IndiePublishing

It’s our Birthday Episode of Talking Comics! 🎉

In Episode 73, we celebrate birthdays, comic anniversaries, and everything comics. We break down our weekly comic pulls, show off an epic comic haul, open blind bags, reveal a special slabbed surprise, and talk about the latest updates on The Chronicles of Panel Pete—including where to watch the trailer and how to get notified for the Kickstarter launch.

We also cover what we’ve been reading, movies and games we’ve been playing, Key City finds, DC trivia, Batman This or That, and plenty of laughs along the way.

👉 Watch the Panel Pete trailer now https://youtu.be/z1zDZuO_8hk

👉 Sign up for the newsletter for a free preview https://talkincomicspodcast.substack.com/

👉 Hit “Notify Me on Launch” on Kickstarter https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/641500179/the-chronicles-of-panel-pete

Like, subscribe, and comment with your favorite birthday comic moment!

Sponsors:

• AMPED Comics – Use code TCP10 for 10% off https://ampedcomics.com/discount/TCP10

• Allegra Printing – Printing The Chronicles of Panel Pete

👉🖨 For your comic book printing needs please visit Allegra Travers City (Tell them AJ Sent You) https://www.allegramarketingprint.com...

Printing-Comic Books-Fliers-Prints-Business Cards-Rack Cards-Promotional Items-Etc

🗨 Get your FREE preview of The Chronicles of Panel Pete https://talkincomicspodcast.substack.com/

👉 Hit the Kickstarter “Remind Me” button to follow the project launch (coming early 2026). https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/641500179/the-chronicles-of-panel-pete

Hit like, subscribe, and check out all things Panel Pete below! https://linktr.ee/Talkin_Comics_Podcast

Chapters

00:00 Birthday Celebrations and Comic Introductions

02:08 Comic Book Discoveries and Weekly Polls

05:31 Gift Exchanges and Comic Collecting

10:29 Blind Bag Openings and Surprises

29:18 Birthday Video

31:59 Trivia and This or That: Batman Edition

43:59 Wrap-Up and Future Plans

#TalkingComics #ComicBookPodcast #ComicCollecting #WeeklyPulls

#ComicHaul #BirthdayEpisode #DCComics #MarvelComics

#IndieComics #PanelPete #ComicSlabs #BlindBagComics