Iron Age Marketing

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity As we wrap up our conversation Bryan and I get into more of the logistics and changes from his 20+ years in publishing. Luckily for people interested in self-publishing the quality of services available to small creators has improved dramatically and stabilized considerably in that time period. There is always a little angst in opening that first box of product, wondering what minute imperfection you're going to have to live with, but is that all that will be wrong? Since the production part of the process has improved, Bryan's real change has been learning the ropes of crowdfunding, which would have been handled in the past by a publisher. For Bryan, picking his crowdfund platform literally came down to the customer service he needed while learning. It was IndieGoGo's lack of customer service that led Bryan to choose FundMyComic for his crowdfunding campaign. Luke and the other staff did their best to help where needed but also created a platform that is easy enough to navigate on its face.

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity Diving deeper into Bryan's exit from his most recent publishing arrangement, we see that what some people dream about isn't always roses, even when we think it is. Even in the best of times, small publishers have a tendency to shut down. These aren't the best of times; now add that to the market, is a fickle mistress, and physical media goes out of vogue, and you've got a recipe for disappointment. An important factor to keep in mind is that relationships can change just as quickly. This all leads us to the conclusion that if you can make self-publishing work, you should. We tried our best to be honest about this part of the interview, but Bryan is a very nice guy who didn't feel comfortable going into too much detail about the departure. Still, I think we captured enough of the event to be useful to other creators considering the small publisher route.

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity When I begin talking horror, it's difficult to get me to change topics, as you know from my previous episode with Ali Sanguis. This conversation was no different. While we discussed Bryan's inspirations and how they have changed over time, we found our way to the topic of "video stores." More than video stores though, we reminisced on what it was like finding a video store with "that section" where the one employee would talk your ear off about whatever the weirdest stuff they had was. Having fully geeked out about video stores and my jealousy over Bryan's having actual original print EC comics, we finally get to Bryan's current campaign on fundmycomic.com. Bryan is continuing on with issues 10, 11, and 12 of his formerly Alterna Comics series Wulf And Batsy and recounts how the campaign was fully funded in under three days. Not without some sadness, we do begin exploring the reasons for leaving his publisher for the current run of Wulf And Batsy

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity For some, the journey into the realm of horror begins in childhood, where fascination intertwines with innocence, shaping perceptions and igniting a lifelong passion. Brian Baugh, creator of the comic book series "Wulf And Batsy," traces his love for horror back to his earliest memories. He recalls his father sharing with him the wonders of classic black-and-white monster movies. Through the lens of his father's guidance, Brian discovered not only the allure of the supernatural but also the artistry behind the creation of cinematic illusions. Driven by an innate fascination with monsters and a keen understanding of the boundary between fantasy and reality, Brian's journey into the world of horror was inevitable. From the chilling tales of werewolves to the haunting specters of vampires, he found his place in the macabre, embracing it as a foundational element of his interests in life.

Summary In this episode, Nicky P interviews Bryan Baugh, the creator of the comic book series Wolf and Batsy. Bryan shares his early fascination with monsters and horror movies, which led him to pursue a career in horror comics. He discusses the challenges of self-publishing and his recent crowdfunding campaign for issues 10, 11, and 12 of his comic series. Bryan also offers advice for new creators and shares where listeners can find more information about his work. Takeaways - Childhood fascination with monsters can shape a lifelong interest in horror - Self-publishing allows creators to maintain creative control and avoid conflicts with publishers - Crowdfunding campaigns can be an effective way to fund independent projects - Creating short stories as a test drive can help determine if a concept is worth pursuing Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:04 Early Fascination with Monsters 04:35 Love for Horror Movies 05:49 Interest in Different Types of Horror 08:09 Collecting Horror Memorabilia 09:20 Challenges of Self-Publishing 11:12 Crowdfunding Campaign 23:34 Difficulties in Self-Publishing 28:01 Custom Sketch Covers 30:18 Advice for New Creators 31:31 Where to Find More Information

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity Mark Twain remarked that there are no truly new stories; creators reimagine existing concepts through a kaleidoscope, infusing them with unique perspectives and twists. The essence lies in offering a fresh take on familiar themes, thereby resonating with audiences. Nicky P uses Stephen King's resolute cop in "Mr. Mercedes" as an example of the characters we resonate with that make the story unique. Beyond the gripping plotlines lies the heartbeat of humanity—the struggles, resilience, and imperfections that render characters relatable. Readers find solace in recognizing fragments of themselves mirrored in these fictional personas, forging an intimate bond that transcends the confines of the written page. As creators, we embark on journeys of discovery that mirror the odysseys of our characters. Through each narrative arc, we confront universal and personal truths, grappling with questions that transcend the boundaries of fiction. It's a journey marked by uncertainty and revelation, where the destination is not a foregone conclusion but a tapestry of possibilities waiting to unfold. Crafting characters akin to complex human beings, complete with virtues, flaws, and untold depths, is an endeavor fraught with both challenge and reward. Yet, within these depths, the true essence of storytelling emerges—a tapestry woven from the threads of human experience.

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity In the vast world of storytelling, certain characters stand out, etching themselves into our collective consciousness. Sherlock Holmes, the enigmatic detective created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, continues to captivate audiences worldwide. But what makes Holmes so timeless? It's not merely his deductive prowess or uncanny intellect; rather, it's the intricate layers of his personality that draw us in. Nicky P dives into how Holmes embodies the archetype of the misunderstood genius. Despite his brilliance, Holmes grapples with loneliness and social detachment, traits that render him both relatable and compelling. Beyond Sherlock Holmes, the discussion Nicky P extends his point to other beloved characters, such as those from the X-Men universe. Nightcrawler and Beast stand out for him. Daniel on the other hand chooses to talk about his favorite, Colossus, the stalwart X-Man known for his immense strength and unwavering dedication to protecting others. As Daniel reflects on Colossus' role, it becomes evident that his appeal lies not just in his superhuman abilities but in his underlying motivations and sense of duty. Daniel even laments Colossus' depiction in the Deadpool films. It's too easy to reduce him to comic relief in the movies. Daniel contends that his inclusion should have served more of a narrative purpose, juxtaposing his seriousness with Deadpool's irreverence. Shifting gears, Daniel explores the role of characterization in marketing, particularly in the realm of literature. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on characters rather than world-building when promoting books, citing the enduring appeal of well-developed protagonists throughout history. Looking into the art of characterization and its profound impact on storytelling. Whether it's the enigmatic allure of Sherlock Holmes or the heroic resolve of Colossus, memorable characters have the power to transcend time and resonate with audiences on a profound level.

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity In contemplating the trajectory of comic book superheroes over the past four decades, one cannot overlook the profound shifts in narrative and characterization that have unfolded. Daniel digs into how he constructed the characters in the world of Legacy Of Heroes. He uses the story of a young man affected by a single event of trauma where he was saved by the superhero Paragon. Daniel cites the plights Superman went through as the inspiration for so much of the adversity the character faced. Nick asks Daniel how he deals with the elements of realism when it comes to their costumes. Citing the example of Amy in the book Daniel mentions how he addressed a female character feeling embarrassed by the form fitting costumes that were customary of a female super hero. Ultimately she chose a full jacket over her outfit which called to mind characters like Rogue of the X Men. Nick asks if this undermines the essence of superheros being perfect physical specimens to accentuate goodness. Like the Greek gods before them beauty is a way of showcasing these being are good at living in the natural order.

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity What if we could infuse the ethos of a samurai into a futuristic setting? This was the intriguing premise that sparked the creation of "Gabriel" in Jisedai. His journey encapsulates the essence of samurai honor and duty set against the backdrop of a society grappling with the aftermath of technological upheaval. Gabriel emerges as the peak of a breed of cyber-enhanced assassins bred by mega-corporations vying for supremacy in a world where traditional firearms have been outlawed. The resurgence of feudal-style warfare becomes the arena for power struggles among these corporate entities. In many ways, the series is Daniel's love-letter to Kurosawa. Ever the romantic, Legacy of Heroes is Daniel's goodnight kiss to the modern subverted (often perverted) superhero. Modern writers seem to hate superheroes even more than the idea of good and evil itself. They have twisted every tale into a morally ambiguous exploration of how all the bad guys are misunderstood and the heroes are just dickheads with capes hiding behind charm and superpowers. The idea of a symbol of hope and virtue is a quaint remnant of a bygone era. Creators, like Daniel, are beginning to ask if maybe hope and virtue wouldn't be so bygone if we hadn't given up on the cornerstones of our modern mythology.

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity In this discussion, Daniel P Reilly, the proprietor of Whimsyland.org literary Coaching and Services, provides insight into his evolution as a writer. Despite harboring a lifelong passion for storytelling, Daniel embarked on his creative journey later in life, having put aside his ambitions to play it safe and raise his daughter. As a single parent balancing personal aspirations with raising a child often meant setting aside his dreams to prioritize his daughter's well-being. However, fueled by a desire to instill a sense of ambition in his growing child, Daniel embraced his creative calling. Reflecting on his journey as a parent and an author, Daniel underscores the transformative power of pursuing one's passions. As he navigated the complexities of single parenthood, he discovered that embracing his creative calling not only enriched his own life but also served as a source of inspiration for his daughter's aspirations. In a poignant testament to the rewards of independence and entrepreneurship, Daniel shares his journey of self-reliance in the face of professional uncertainty, by carving his path as an author and literary coach. Moving past the parenthood topic we discuss Daniel's literary repertoire, specifically how it encompasses a diverse array of genres, with a primary focus on science fiction and fantasy. Within these genres, he masterfully intertwines elements of adventure, horror, and futuristic technologies attempting to captivate readers of whatever genre he finds himself writing. We spend some time covering two of Daniel's most prominent works. His Jisedai series featuring a katana-wielding cybernetically enhanced assassin turned protector has expanded beyond the initial series of novels into the graphic novel space. Daniel also has begun expanding his Legacy Of Heroes world with a second novel on the way. The LOH world explores a young man trying to bring back the symbol of a hero long lost.

Summary In this episode, Nicky P and Daniel P Riley discuss Daniel's journey as an author and his expertise in writing science fiction and fantasy books. They explore the representation of superheroes in modern media and the importance of archetypes in storytelling. They also emphasize the significance of creating unique and compelling characters in marketing books and engaging readers. The conversation explores the importance of characters in stories, the process of creating complicated human characters, the balance between archetypes and complexity, the role of hope in comics and the real world, and some final thoughts from Daniel. Takeaways - Focus on creating unique and compelling characters in storytelling. - Consider the representation of superheroes in modern media and the impact on storytelling. - Understand the power of archetypes in connecting with readers. - Highlight the importance of characters in marketing books and engaging readers. Characters are the heart of a story and what makes it memorable. - Creating complicated human characters adds depth and realism to the story. - Balancing archetypes and complexity in characters can enhance the storytelling experience. - The presence or absence of hope in comics and the real world is interconnected. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:00 Daniel's Journey to Becoming an Author 06:01 The Importance of Pursuing Dreams as a Parent 12:11 Daniel's Books: G Said I and Legacy of Heroes 19:06 The Representation of Superheroes in Modern Media 25:23 The Power of Archetypes in Storytelling 29:16 The Portrayal of Characters in Movies and Books 31:39 Marketing Books: Focusing on Characters 36:31 Creating Unique Characters in Pulp-style Writing 39:34 The Importance of Compelling Characters in Storytelling 40:01 The Importance of Characters in Stories 41:03 Creating Complicated Human Characters 42:36 Balancing Archetypes and Complexity 44:05 The Role of Hope in Comics and the Real World 45:31 Final Thoughts and Where to Find Daniel

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity Jack Lloyd's venture into the world of comics traces back to a unique origin—an impromptu cosplay stint with his brother, advocating the mantra "taxation is theft." This whimsical beginning laid the foundation for what would later become the Voluntaryist series. The journey like all others was fraught with challenges, and Jack's odyssey was no exception. Balancing his passion for comics with the rigors of life, including studying for the bar exam, Jack embarked on a relentless pursuit to bring his vision to fruition. Despite encountering setbacks, failures, and the inevitable learning curves, he persevered, gradually refining his craft and honing the narrative essence of Voluntaryist. Jack Lloyd's voyage encapsulates a wealth of invaluable lessons for aspiring creators navigating the tumultuous seas of creativity. His advice resonates with a profound truth—that the journey toward artistic excellence is paved with experimentation, persistence, and a willingness to embrace failure. By heeding Jack's wisdom, creators can embark on their own transformative odyssey, inching closer to their creative zenith. In addition central to Jack's creative ethos is the embrace of constructive feedback as a catalyst for growth. He advocates discerning between genuine critique and baseless criticism, urging creators to heed the former while disregarding the latter. By fostering a culture of constructive feedback, creators can fine-tune their craft, rectify shortcomings, and evolve iteratively—a crucial aspect of the creative journey often overlooked.

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity In the dialogue between Nicky P and Jack Lloyd, the convergence of politics and marketing is a necessary bridge to cross given Jack's ideologically based brand. As an individual rooted in politics, he acknowledges the challenge of marketing to demographics with strong ideological inclinations. Nicky P wonders how Jack has navigated the waters during our particularly tumultuous time right now. Jack emphasizes the importance of staying principled even amidst divisive events that may cause rifts within the target demographics. While acknowledging the temptation to remain silent on controversial issues for the sake of business, Jack highlighted the value of unwavering principles. He emphasized the need to uphold personal values while carefully choosing words to avoid unnecessary alienation and warned against the detrimental effects of sporadic offense, which could ultimately erode long-term support and alienate genuine followers. In a digital age obsessed with metrics, Jack Lloyd advocates for prioritizing quality over quantity in audience engagement. He emphasizes the significance of cultivating a loyal and engaged audience over amassing superficial followers. Jack's approach underscores the importance of fostering genuine connections built on shared values and long-term commitment. Central to effective marketing strategies, Nicky P underscored the paramount importance of relationships. He emphasizes the need to invest in building genuine connections with both potential customers and supporters. Nicky stresses the value of reciprocity and discernment in fostering meaningful relationships, steering clear of those solely driven by self-interest.

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity As the conversation continues, Jack lets us in on what we can expect in this new Arc of his Voluntaryist comic series. The Suit Saga is, as the name would suggest, the story of how the titular character dons his costume. However, the story doesn't stop there. We can expect new villains and plenty of other new elements to be presented. In a thought-provoking exchange, Nicky P. and Jack Lloyd delve into the intersection of libertarian ideals and religious affiliations. Drawing from personal experiences and historical contexts, they explore the nuanced relationship between liberty and faith. From Protestant resistance to Catholic doctrine, the conversation navigates through intricate landscapes of belief and ideology. Despite ideological differences, there exists a common ground between libertarianism and certain strands of Christianity. Jack elucidates the parallels between Austrian economics and faith-based principles, highlighting shared assertions and foundational beliefs. Through a lens of mutual understanding, the dialogue transcends barriers, fostering an appreciation for diverse perspectives.

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity In the ever-evolving landscape of social media platforms, creators often find themselves grappling with the complexities of algorithms and audience engagement. Nicky P laments his infrequent interaction with Facebook due to algorithmic frustrations. He questions the authenticity of follower counts and highlights the erosion of trust caused by algorithmic manipulations, particularly evident during politically charged periods like elections. Jack Lloyd echoes this sentiment, acknowledging the frustration felt by creators whose content is overshadowed by algorithmic whims. Amidst the tumult of algorithmic uncertainties, Jack emphasizes the importance of purposeful curation for creators. Whether it's cultivating a fan base or maintaining authenticity amidst diverse interests, Jack Lloyd advocates for a strategic approach to content creation. He underscores the need for creators to adapt to evolving audience preferences while staying true to their core message. As the discussion unfolds, Jack Lloyd reflects on the evolution of content creation and the inherent challenges of diversification. He shares insights into navigating transitions between content genres and acknowledges the inevitable shifts in audience engagement. Citing Eric July as an example, he illustrates the frustrations some have had in the wake of Eric's transitioning from critiquing mainstream culture to venturing into business-oriented content. Jack also emphasizes the need for adaptability in an ever-changing digital landscape despite the fickle nature of some fans.

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity The conversation begins with Jack reflecting back on the past year. It was a good year for Jack. From headlining musical performances at porcfest to the successful completion of his nonfiction libertarian philosophy trilogy. He rounds things off with the acclaimed music video "Break the Great Reset" and the continuation of the Voluntaryist comic book with the campaign for it's newest arc the Suit Saga. Amidst the successes, Jack acknowledges the evolving landscape of marketing and the necessity for adaptation. He candidly discusses the shifts in his approach, emphasizing the importance of proactive outreach and direct engagement with potential supporters. In a world inundated with digital noise, Jack's strategy of personalized messaging stands out as a beacon of authenticity and connection that underscores the value of building meaningful relationships in a digital age dominated by algorithms and algorithms.

Summary In this episode, author James Krake discusses his journey as an indie creator and the challenges of self-publishing. He shares his experiences in the indie scene and the struggles of wearing multiple hats in the publishing business. James also talks about his cyberpunk series and how he reimagines the genre. He highlights the importance of reaching an audience and the difficulties of marketing and building a readership. In this conversation, Nicky P and Krake discuss various aspects of writing and storytelling. They explore the intrigue of drama and the appeal of creating new pulp. They also delve into the challenges of writing in established universes and the importance of good writing. The significance of memorable characters and the role of setting and tone are also discussed. They touch on the need for unique hooks and the value of nuanced conversations. The conversation concludes with a discussion on promoting and discovering books, engaging with readers, and the potential for book adaptations. Takeaways - Self-publishing requires authors to wear multiple hats and take on various roles in the publishing business. - The cyberpunk genre needs to evolve and address current technological advancements and societal concerns. - Reaching an audience is a major challenge for indie authors, as reading habits are declining and competition from other forms of entertainment is increasing. - Exploring other mediums, such as graphic novels and video games, can provide new opportunities for storytelling and reaching a wider audience. Creating new pulp can be intriguing and appealing to audiences. - Writing in established universes can be challenging, as comparisons to the original work are inevitable. - Good writing is essential for captivating readers and distinguishing oneself as a writer. - Memorable characters play a significant role in attracting and resonating with readers. - Setting and tone contribute to the overall atmosphere and impact of a story. - Unique hooks are necessary to differentiate one's story from others in the same genre. - Engaging in nuanced conversations can lead to finding common ground and helping others. - Promoting books and engaging with readers through fan art and contests can foster a sense of community. - Offering free content can be a way to generate interest and build an audience. - Fantasy and science fiction have different visual appeals, with fantasy often being more visually stimulating. - The Matrix has a complicated legacy, with the original film being highly regarded but the sequels receiving mixed reviews. - Book adaptations have the potential to bring stories to a wider audience. - Becoming an author is a personal journey that may involve rediscovering one's passion and pursuing writing as a career. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:00 The Challenges of Indie Publishing 08:00 The Value of Art and Pricing 12:00 Defining the Iron Age and the Indie Scene 16:00 Reimagining Cyberpunk 21:00 The Tech Noir Detective Story 26:00 The Challenges of Reaching an Audience 29:00 The Compulsion to Write and Exploring Other Mediums 33:00 The Frustration of Marketing and Building an Audience 34:41 The Intrigue of Drama 35:06 The Challenge of Writing in Established Universes 35:33 The Importance of Good Writing 36:38 The Significance of Memorable Characters 37:33 The Role of Setting and Tone 38:22 The Need for Unique Hooks 39:24 The Value of Nuanced Conversations 39:56 Promoting and Discovering Books 40:26 Engaging with Readers 41:46 Encouraging Fan Art and Engagement 42:14 The Decision to Offer Free Content 43:45 Differentiating Between Web Novels and Published Books 46:30 The Visual Appeal of Fantasy vs. Science Fiction 48:46 The Complicated Legacy of The Matrix 50:40 The Potential for Book Adaptations 50:49 The Journey of Becoming an Author

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity Opening the last segment of this weeks interview, Nicky P tried to dig in to what exactly James would like fans of his work doing for him. While he mentions the obligatory Amazon reviews so he can hit his minimums for Amazon to promote his books, he also calls out the artists in his community to stop wasting time drawing fan art of legacy brands in favor of ding the same for independent creators. He emphasized the importance of cultivating a community around independent intellectual properties, creating a space for artists to showcase their talents. The hosts delved into the intricacies of James Craig's storytelling approach. They discussed his epic fantasy series, "The Undying Emperor," and its unconventional narrative structure, the progression fantasy. James claims the style is akin to leveling up in Dungeons and Dragons. James elaborated on how he divided the story into standalone books, each representing a different region and adventure in the protagonist's journey. The web novel, available on rural road, offers a raw, unedited glimpse into his creative process. While he acknowledged potential quality issues, he highlighted the steady stream of content reaching an audience of around 1,400 readers per chapter. He likened this content stream to handling something similar to an email list. In contrast, the books available on platforms like Amazon undergo rigorous editing and polishing to meet higher standards. Find the full podcast episode @ https://ironagemarketing.com

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity "Why do you write?" This fundamental question becomes the endcap of this segment. Krake confesses to being internally compelled to write. Additionally, it's not just a mere expression; it's a business where where his decisions are made strategically. From prioritizing stories to marketing strategies, Krake acknowledges the multifaceted nature of the writing profession. The conversation hints at the inevitable tension between artistic passion and the practicalities of reaching an audience. Nicky P, never shy about taking the conversation for a fascinating turn, asks Krake about translating stories into different mediums. James expresses that for him, some stories find their home in prose novels, while others are destined for graphic novels and even board games. The challenges of funding and "audience reach" become a determining factor at this point in his career, however. Krake lets us into some of his challenges in relation to producing graphic novels in particular. The need for substantial funds to bring a vision to life is at the top of the list. The discussion touches upon the delicate balance of pricing, audience size, and the competitive nature of the market, revealing the uphill battle writers face when venturing into graphic storytelling. Find the full podcast episode @ https://ironagemarketing.com

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity In this segment, James Krake details his cyberpunk series: Bastion, featuring Detective Blackstone, a character navigating a highly urbanized society with tech-noir elements. The series focuses on stories and crimes existing in the cracks of the system, examining how individuals intentionally subvert technology. The protagonist, Detective Blackstone, emerges as the one cop striving to do the right thing in a broken society. With this type of setting and character it's hard not to touch on political themes within the series. James emphasizes that the narrative prioritizes entertainment. While addressing social-political aspects, the series aims to maintain an engaging and entertaining storytelling experience without leaning into controversial third-rail issues that pull readers out of the narrative. The discussion concludes with a poignant exploration of the elephant in any room when discussing publishing. The challenge of reaching an audience in a reading-scarce environment. James Krake expresses frustration with the declining interest in reading and the prevalence of alternative forms of entertainment. The speakers both acknowledge the uphill battle of promoting books in a world where reading competes with platforms like TikTok and Netflix. Find the full podcast episode @ https://ironagemarketing.com

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity The discussion kicks off with Nicky P sharing his insights on commissioning art and the challenges associated with assigning value to creative work. Both speakers agree that the worth of art is subjective and varies based on individual perceptions. Nicky P emphasizes the role of creators in communicating the value of their work to potential consumers. James Krake chimes in, detailing his experience with pricing his books, shedding light on the complexities of determining the optimal cost. They discuss the pitfalls of underpricing, which may lead potential readers to question the quality of a book, and overpricing, which might deter buyers. The duo even touches upon the strategy of using the first book in a series as a "loss leader" to attract readers, acknowledging the need to balance affordability with perceived value. The dialogue shifts briefly towards audiobooks, with their gaining prominence, but Nicky P expresses surprise at the minimal earnings authors receive for their efforts in producing audiobooks. James Krake provides insights into the suitability of audiobooks for different genres, emphasizing that certain genres benefit more from the audio format. James Krake ends the segment with his perspective on the cyberpunk genre, and his feelings that it has been trapped in the 1980s and struggles to resonate with contemporary audiences. He critiques the themes and concerns of traditional cyberpunk, highlighting its outdated portrayal of technology and the disconnect with the current era of the internet and advanced technologies like Neuralink. James Krake's cyberpunk series aims to break free from the aesthetics and constraints of the past, offering a more relevant and nuanced exploration of the intersection between humanity and technology. Find the full podcast episode @ https://ironagemarketing.com

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity The discussion kicks off with Nicky P highlighting the dual identity of James Krake as both a YouTuber and an author. James, known for his candid and incendiary takes on Twitter (at least by Nicky P,) sheds light on the struggles of wearing multiple hats in the business. He emphasizes the inherent difficulties faced by indie authors who must navigate the realms of marketing, networking, running a YouTube channel, and even critiquing fellow YouTubers' books. James unveils how a global catastrophe reminded him he wanted to be more than just an engineer. He wanted to be an author and began doing what engineers do: researching. Today he finds himself the creator of both an online fantasy series and a running science fiction series. Nicky P and James touch upon the accessibility of indie publishing, noting its low cost of entry as well as discussing the affordability of e-books for consumers, allowing them to access hours of entertainment at a reasonable price. James advocates for reasonable pricing and emphasizes the importance of investing time to hone one's craft before expecting success, especially when acknowledging the challenges of the developing indie system, which lacks the layers of support that traditional publishing has historically provided. Ending the first segment of the interview, James reflects on the biggest hurdle he faces in self-publishing—the danger of toxic positivity. He warns against surrounding oneself with individuals who provide unwarranted praise without constructive criticism. James shares his personal experience of launching his first book and acknowledges that seeking critical feedback could have led to a stronger initial launch. Find the full podcast episode @ https://ironagemarketing.com

In today's episode of Iron Age Marketing, I talk to Joseph Knowles, one of the men behind Silence And Starsong magazine. Let's Meet Iron Age Creator Joseph Knowles Joseph Knowles is a lawyer by training, but got into writing when he first attempted “National Novel Writing Month” in 2017. He grew up in Florida, but now lives in Virginia with his wife and three children. He talks to us today about Silence And Starsong magazine. From NaNoWriMo To Silence And Starsong Magazine Like so many people these days, Joseph Knowles begins his story with the National Novel Writing Month challenge. A lawyer by trade, he "made it work" but kept going until he was eventually able to sell some of his short stories. With this background behind him, he began making friends with other like-minded creators. In one of those groups, they started throwing around the idea of publishing a volume of the stories they were pitching each other. Fearing they might not have enough for a full release, they opened the doors to other authors to homage the type of stories in C.S. Lewis' space trilogy. Christian Values In Writing And Working From Home Joseph tells me that the key to differentiating themselves from other magazines out there is their adherence to Christian themes and not denigrating Christianity in their works. They don't adhere to any specific sect but treat each other as fellow travelers, much like Lewis & Tolkien. It's also exciting that Joseph acknowledges that too many creators put message before art. As Joseph tells me about the plans for a second edition, we turn the discussion towards his personal work/life balance. Nicky P is a bit taken aback at anyone who can find the time to put out a magazine and manage a career as a lawyer. The secret he says is being able to work from home. Marriage & The Creative And Growing A Magazine Audience Discussing relationships is a staple of this show. Healthy interpersonal relationships are the health and backbone of being successful as a creative. Nicky P asks Joseph how his marriage affects the creative process. As with many others, the support of a partner is a huge boon regarding stability and finding the time to work. As well as the marriage relationships we follow up by getting into all the different cliches online to grow the audience. These can include conservative pundits or Christian organizations. Joseph walks us through how Silence And Star Song's process progressed. Conservatives, Economics & Supporting The Arts With Your Dollars As the conversation wraps up, Joseph and Nicky P get into some of the deep economic concepts that are preventing conservatives from taking over the arts as they want to. They complain as they allow their own money to prop up left-wing art in both the public and private sectors. If economics isn't your bag, I understand, but stick around to find out what big plans Joseph & the gents at Silence And Starsong in store for us. Hopefully, today's episode with Joseph Knowles serves as both inspiration and education in your own journey to bring your creation to the world. Joseph Knowles Resources & Extra Media - silenceandstarsong.com Shill Need help connecting with your audience for your book, comic, TTRPG, or other creative endeavor? Check out Nicky P @ ironagemarketing.com

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity As the conversation wraps up, Joseph and Nicky P get into some of the deep economic concepts that are preventing conservatives from taking over the arts as they want to. They complain as they allow their own money to prop up left-wing art in both the public and private sectors. If economics isn't your bag I understand but stick around to find out what big plans Joseph & the gents at Silence And Star Song in store for us. Find the full podcast episode @ https://ironagemarketing.com

#ironage #indiecomics #writingcommunity Discussing relationships is a staple of this show. Healthy interpersonal relationships are the health and backbone of being successful as a creative. Nicky P asks Joseph how his marriage affects the creative process. As with many others, the support of a partner is a huge boon regarding stability and finding the time to work. As well as the marriage relationships we follow up by getting into all the different cliches online to grow the audience. These can include conservative pundits or Christian organizations. Joseph walks us through how Silence And Star Song's process progressed. Find the full podcast episode @ https://ironagemarketing.com