Capital of Comics

In this episode, Kyle Willis shares his inspiring journey from artist to successful comic book retailer, emphasizing the importance of persistence, adaptability, and business mindset in the creative industry. Discover practical tips on managing multiple facets of a creative business, turning no into yes, and building a thriving community around your art. Kyle Willis shares his journey through various art mediums, the creative proce...

In this episode, Joel Rodriguez interviews Laurie Foster, owner of Laguna Studios, about her journey from comic artist to business owner, the importance of vision, balancing creativity with business, and overcoming imposter syndrome. They discuss growth, diversification, and the mindset needed for success in the creative industry. Join us for an in-depth discussion as we explore innovative approaches to comics creation, community b...

In this episode, Erik Laidroo, a seasoned media producer and owner of Blue Rock Media, shares insights on building a successful media business, networking strategies, the impact of AI on media production, and lessons from the creative industry that apply to comics. Discover how small jobs can lead to big opportunities and the importance of quality and relationships.

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In this episode of Capital of Comics, host Joel Rodriguez interviews David Byrne, a narrative strategist and lead writer at Metal Ninja Studios. They discuss David's journey into the comic industry, the evolution of his publishing company, W.i.N. Pictures, and the importance of team dynamics in creative projects. The conversation also delves into the challenges of adapting stories into different mediums, understanding publishing co...

In this episode, host Joel Rodriguez sits down with executive headhunter and podcast host Kip Knippel (Kip Search, Capitalist Culture) to dismantle the stigma around the business side of creativity.

Kip pulls back the curtain on the high-stakes world of executive recruitment and translates those corporate strategies into a blueprint for indie creators. Whether you are looking for your first artist or scaling a studio, this session ...

Success in comics isn't just about what you know, but who you grow with.

In this masterclass, host Joel Rodriguez sits down with prolific writer and community leader Travis Gibb (Broke Down And Four Dead Bodies, Voodoo Nations) to discuss the most undervalued asset in the indie comic industry: Community.

Travis pulls back the curtain on how building a genuine network of peers, fans, and collaborators acts as a force multiplier for ...

Ever wondered if your creative passion can actually pay the bills—without leading to total burnout?

In this episode, host Joel Rodriguez is joined by master illustrator and creator Eranga Devasurendra (Metal Ninja Studios) to demystify the business side of art. While many creatives shy away from the "F-word" (Finance), Eranga breaks down a powerful framework borrowed from the m...

In this episode of the Capital of Comics podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with my good friend Danny Martinez, the owner of Flashpoint Comics and Games. We delved into his journey from working at a comic book store to running his own, including the challenges of COVID-19 and balancing fatherhood. Danny shared his unique perspective on the importance of community in brick-and-mortar stores versus online retail, and how his lov...

In this episode of Capital of Comics, Joel Rodriguez is joined by Steve Colle, owner of Editor’s Eye View and THE Comics, for a deep dive into the often misunderstood world of comic book editing.

Joel and Steve break down the different types of editors across the industry, what each role actually does, and why strong editorial support can elevate a creator’s work far beyond the page. They also explore the growing need for accessibl...

In this episode of Capital of Comics, Joel Rodriguez is joined by Michael Zapcic, Manager of Jay and Silent Bob's Secret Stash, for an inside look at how passion for a fandom can bring people together.

They dive into the history of Jay and Silent Bob’s Secret Stash, the behind-the-scenes experience of Comic Book Men, and the unexpected ways a love for comics can open doors, build communities, and connect people who might never have...

In this special solo Christmas episode of Capital of Comics, Joel Rodriguez reflects on seven years of building Metal Ninja Studios and the lessons learned along the way.

From creative breakthroughs to hard-earned business realities, Joel shares how his understanding of creativity, entrepreneurship, and sustainable growth has evolved. He talks candidly about adaptation, resilience, and why long-term thinking matters more than chasi...

In this episode of Capital of Comics, Joel Rodriguez is joined by James Lamb, owner of Hive Comics, for an inside look at the evolving world of online comic retail.

They break down how online retailers have changed the way comics are discovered and sold, what creators often misunderstand about working with retailers, and how strong relationships are built on trust, professionalism, and mutual value. James also shares practical advi...

In this episode of Capital of Comics, Joel Rodriguez is joined by Mark Florio, Director of Instructional Design of Metal Ninja Studios, for a deep dive on building an educational resource for comic creators and creative entrepreneurs.

Together, they unpack why skill-building and continued education are no longer optional for creators who want longevity. Mark and Joel walk through the real-world thinking behind the creation of the C...

In this episode of Capital of Comics, Joel Rodriguez is joined by Dillon Mysliwiec, CTO of SeerNova Comics, and Brandon Bloxdorf, Brand and Community Director for Comix Wellspring, as they discuss Navigating Partnerships.

Together, they discuss the 2025 SNCC Virtual Expo, which brought them together as organizers. Joel, Dillon, and Brandon dive into how to find valuable partnerships, deliver value within them, and avoid the most co...

In this episode of Capital of Comics, Joel Rodriguez is joined by Dan Hills, CEO of Comix Wellspring, for a deep dive on the power of Vision.

Together, they explore how vision is formed, why staying committed to it is more challenging than most people expect, and how long-term vision shapes creative careers and entire industries. Dan and Joel share real-world insights from building businesses in comics, navigating uncertainty, and ...