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The United States Department of Nerds Podcast
The United States Department of Nerds Podcast
Author: USDN_Chairman
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© 2023 The DFPN LLC
Description
USDN Podcast is a cinematic indie comics interview series hosted by the USDN_Chairman and the Council of Nerds — spotlighting the creators, storytellers, and worldbuilders shaping the future of independent comics.
Each episode dives beyond headlines into the real journeys behind the books — from Kickstarter launches and creative struggles to the philosophies driving today’s indie storytelling movement.
This isn’t about rumors or recycled news.
It’s about the people creating the worlds.
Through in-depth conversations, creator spotlights, and crowdfunding discussions, USDN explores:
• The rise of indie comics
• The business of crowdfunding
• The art of worldbuilding
• The realities of independent storytelling
USDN is where indie comics come to life — for the fans, by the creators, and powered by the community.
Each episode dives beyond headlines into the real journeys behind the books — from Kickstarter launches and creative struggles to the philosophies driving today’s indie storytelling movement.
This isn’t about rumors or recycled news.
It’s about the people creating the worlds.
Through in-depth conversations, creator spotlights, and crowdfunding discussions, USDN explores:
• The rise of indie comics
• The business of crowdfunding
• The art of worldbuilding
• The realities of independent storytelling
USDN is where indie comics come to life — for the fans, by the creators, and powered by the community.
75 Episodes
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🎧 S. Xing Xin. B — From Indie Rejections to Walmart Shelves | USDN Podcast InterviewRejected more than 200 times by the mainstream comic industry, S. Xing Xin. B chose persistence over permission — building his own publishing path and developing the Ximphonic Versus universe over a 32-year journey.With 17 volumes published, nearly 13,000 physical copies sold without crowdfunding, direct market distribution, streaming adaptations in development, and a toy line heading toward Walmart retail, his story reflects the long-game reality of independent comic creation.In this episode of The USDN Podcast, we explore:• Turning rejection into momentum• Building an indie audience without crowdfunding• Artistic craft and anti-AI perspectives• Expanding a comic IP beyond print• Direct market distribution realities• Creator endurance and legacyFollow the project:Website: www.ximphonicversus.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ximphonic_versusFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Dqg7XZHdY/Threads: https://www.threads.com/@ximphonic_versusThe USDN Podcast - Where Indie Comics Come to Life.#IndieComics, #ComicPodcast, #CreatorOwnedComics, #IndependentPublishing, #ComicBookIndustry, #IndieComicInterview, #ComicCreators, #USDNPodcast
Legacy Rising: Building Gods, Monsters & Myth with Gary SeawardA story carried since 2008 finally takes shape.This week on The USDN Podcast, we welcome creator and artist Gary Seaward to discuss Legacy: Idols & Bones — a new indie comic universe blending superhero mythology, sci-fi scale, and horror-driven consequences.We explore the origins of the world, the characters shaping its future, and the Kickstarter campaign launching Issues #1 and #2.From Eidolon and Carcass to Pulse, Widow-Maker, and Re’Ordain — this is a deep dive into building modern indie mythology from the ground up.🔗 Kickstarter Pre-Launch: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/garyseaward/legacy-idols-and-bones-issues-1-and-2🔗 Read Issue #1: https://globalcomix.com/c/legacy-idols-bonesThe USDN Podcast — Where Indie Comics Come to Life.#IndieComics, #ComicPodcast, #USDNPodcast, #KickstarterComics, #ComicCreators, #CrowdfundedComics, #IndieStorytelling
He Was Dying… Then the Government Turned Him Into a Weapon | PorTroyal Smith – The Rogue RecordingsHe was dying.Then the government offered him survival.The price? Becoming a weapon.In this episode of The USDN Podcast, we sit down with PorTroyal Smith (Nathan Lebens), author of The Rogue Recordings, to explore a superhero saga grounded in military realism, moral ambiguity, and the true cost of power.From operating missiles in North Dakota to building a layered narrative about government-created super soldiers, PorTroyal shares the journey behind Shadowalker and Shadowar — and the question that defines the series:When survival changes who you are… are you still the hero?We discuss:• Military influence in storytelling• Weaponized humanity• Power and moral consequence• The evolution from Shadowalker to Shadowar• Writing stories that deepen on a second read📚 Featured Works — The Rogue Recordings Series📘 Shadowalker (2019) Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08163LFPSAudible: https://www.audible.com/pd/B0CQMDQSJY/?source_code=AUDFPWS0223189MWT-BK-ACX0-380067&ref=acx_bty_BK_ACX0_380067_rh_us📕 Shadowar (2025) Kindle: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FWJ7K91KGoodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18185383.PorTroyal_SmithPower always comes with a cost.The USDN Podcast — Where Indie Comics Come to Life.#USDN, #PorTroyalSmith, #Shadowalker, #Shadowar, #IndieAuthor, #SciFiFiction, #SuperheroBooks, #PodcastInterview, #WritingCommunity, #Storytelling, #BookPodcast
Raised to Kill, Fighting Monsters — Akemi & Indie Comics with John HollandSome stories are born from imagination. Others are forged through survival.In this episode of The USDN Podcast, we welcome writer and publisher John Holland of Die Bold Comics to the Council to discuss Akemi, his upcoming Fund My Comic crowdfunder launching around the time of this conversation.Akemi tells the story of a young woman raised as an assassin who escapes her past in Japan, only to find herself drawn into a hidden war against demons and monsters in the United States. We explore the emotional weight behind the story, the balance between action and trauma, and how monsters can serve as metaphors for the scars we carry.John also shares insight into his upcoming Die Bold Comics Digital Library campaign on Zoop — a digital collection of nearly 30 previously published works, including A Girl and Her Dog, Alma, Robot Sex, and more.This episode dives into legacy, longevity, crowdfunding strategy, and the realities of building a lasting indie comics career.If you care about bold storytelling and supporting creator-owned comics, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.🔗 Support John Holland & Die Bold Comics🌐 Website: https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ 📰 Substack: https://jholland.substack.com/ ☕ Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/dieboldcomics 🦋 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/dieboldcomics.bsky.social 🧵 Threads: https://www.threads.com/@john.holland.1481 🐦 X / Twitter: https://x.com/dieboldcomics 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/john.holland.1481 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dieboldcomics/🔥 Support Akemi on Fund My Comic: https://www.fundmycomic.com/campaign/944/akemiSubscribe for more indie creator interviews, weekly comic recommendations, and deep dives into the stories shaping independent comics.The USDN Podcast — where indie comics come to life.
SaGia: Building an Anime-Inspired Indie World with Arnézia “wimbearn” WimberlyOn this episode of the USDN Podcast, The Chairman is joined by Arnézia “wimbearn” Wimberly, creator of SaGia, an anime-inspired indie sci-fi fantasy series blending dragons, fallen gods, alien races, and mythic relics into a bold original universe.Influenced by Akira Toriyama and Ken Sugimori, SaGia explores the fall of the Sagian Gods, the rise of the Drakens, and a cross-world conflict that threatens both Earth and Sariju. Through powerful character relationships, high-energy action, and deep lore, Arnézia is building a saga driven by legacy, consequence, and imagination.In this conversation, we cover:Artistic origins and anime influencesCharacter design and visual clarity in actionMythology, relics, and dragon legendsIndie creator realities and adviceThe future of the SaGia universe🎨 Creator: Arnézia “wimbearn” Wimberly🔗 Follow & Support 🌐 https://sagiaofficial.weebly.com/ 🦋 https://bsky.app/profile/wimbearn.bsky.social 🧵 https://www.threads.com/@wimbearn 📸 https://www.instagram.com/wimbearn/ 📘 https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557516137152 This has been the USDN Podcast — where indie comics come to life.
Lighting the Shadows of Heroism: Dark City Comics & E.P.I.C ExplainedIn this episode of The United States Department of Nerds, The Chairman sits down with Lonnie Lowe Jr (Lo) — creator and founder of Dark City Comics — to shine a light on E.P.I.C (Earth’s Protector in Crisis) and the philosophy behind Lighting the Shadows of Heroism.Dark City Comics is building a universe where grit meets greatness, where heroes are shaped by culture, crisis, and consequence. From street-level struggles to cosmic stakes, Lo shares how lived experience fuels storytelling — and why indie comics are still one of the most powerful creative spaces today.This episode explores:• The origins of Dark City Comics• Redefining heroism for a new generation• The creation of E.P.I.C • The indie grind and the upcoming Kickstarter • The future vision for the Dark City universeIf you believe comics should reflect the world we live in — this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.🔗 CONNECT WITH DARK CITY COMICS🌐 Website: https://www.darkcitychq.com 🚀 Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/darkcitycomics/epic-1-the-alpha-strand 🎵 TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@dark.city.comics 📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/darkcitycomics 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/darkcitycomics ❌ X: https://x.com/DarkcitycomicsThe USDN Podcast — Where indie comics come to life.
JUNKET: Hidden Worlds Revealed — Building Myth, Meaning & Indie Worlds with Ray ReynetOn this episode of The USDN Podcast, we’re joined by Ray Reynet — independent comic creator, writer, illustrator, animator, and founder of Farlook Studios.Ray is the creator of JUNKET: Hidden Worlds Revealed, a creator-owned comic series that blends mythology, faith, adventure, and bold cartooning with the spirit of classic comics. Inspired by creators like Jack Kirby and Darwyn Cooke, JUNKET has earned a cult following in Florida comic shops and is now expanding into animation, short films, and other media.In this conversation, we explore: • Building an indie comic from the ground up • The realities of self-publishing and creative independence • Storytelling across comics, animation, and myth • Why creator-owned worlds matter now more than everThis episode is a deep dive into the mindset, process, and perseverance behind modern independent comics.🔗 CONNECT WITH RAY REYNETInstagram (Creator): https://www.instagram.com/rayreynet/ Instagram (Studio): https://www.instagram.com/farlookstudios/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Farlook-studios Website: https://farlookstudios.com/ Store: https://farlook-store.myspreadshop.com/ JUNKET Paperback: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DGQWPC1J The USDN Podcast — Where indie comics come to life.
🎙️ USDN INTERVIEW: Alim Leggett — Every Panel Counts: Building The Diary of Sweet PeaHello there — I’m The Chairman, and this is The United States Department of Nerds, where indie comics come to life.This week, the council sits down with Alim Leggett, the creator, writer, and art director behind The Diary of Sweet Pea. In a powerful and introspective conversation, Alim unpacks his creative philosophy, the emotional core of his work, and why he believes every panel counts.We dig into the origins of Sweet Pea, a story about grief, memory, and unintended power, following a young girl whose loss manifests into something far larger than she understands. From art direction and visual language to production management, fatherhood, and creative balance, this episode is a masterclass in intentional storytelling.With a Kickstarter campaign launching in March, Alim also shares how crowdfunding allows him to protect the heart of the story — not dilute it.If you’re passionate about indie comics, creator ownership, and stories built with purpose, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.🔗 Follow & Support Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sweetpeacomic Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetpea_comic/ Kickstarter (Pre-Launch): https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sweetpeacomic/the-diary-of-sweet-pea-1-3?ref=profile_created&category_id=250&tab=prelaunch-updates🎙️ The USDN Podcast — Where indie comics come to life.
LAST GEN: The Rise of a New Superhero GenerationIn this episode of The United States Department of Nerds, The Chairman is joined by Matt Jasso and Ray MacKay to discuss LAST GEN, a bold new superhero team rising out of The Remnant Universe.The conversation explores legacy, pressure, and identity as a new generation of heroes steps out of the shadow of icons like Atoman and Atomic Thunderbolt. From the massive 92-page LAST GEN #0 to the team’s first mission in LAST GEN #1: “Pest Problem,” this interview breaks down how character, creativity, and indie spirit power the series.We also discuss fan participation, visual storytelling, and what the future holds for LAST GEN and The Remnant Universe.🔗 Links Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/grokcomics/last-gen/description Tribulation Task Force: https://www.tribulationtaskforce.com/#/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grokcomics YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CyiworldwideInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/raymackaywrites/ 🎧 Subscribe for more indie comic interviews, creator spotlights, and deep dives into the worlds shaping the future of comics. 🎙️ The United States Department of Nerds — where indie comics come to life.#indiecomics #comicinterview #indiecomiccreators #lastgen #theremnantuniverse# #mattjasso #raymackay #superherocomics #indiesuperheroes #comicpodcast #usdnpodcast #comicbookcommunity #creatorinterview #indiecomicspotlight #kickstartercomics #comicbooktalk #comicfans #indiecomicscene #comicbookyoutube
In this episode of The United States Department of Nerds, The Chairman welcomes Nathan Rouse, aka Mr. Unchainedunlimited, creator of JUPITERMAN and the ambitious shared universe known as The Idolverse.Nathan joins the Council of Nerds to discuss his journey as a creator, the importance of inclusive representation in comics, and why JUPITERMAN — an Indigenous Native American tribal hero — was the perfect character to launch a universe built on identity, culture, and purpose.This episode explores the responsibility of storytelling, the power of indie comics, and how creators can build worlds that truly matter.If you’re passionate about independent comics, diverse heroes, and meaningful storytelling, this episode is for you.🔗 OFFICIAL LINKSFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mr.unchainedunlimited Instagram (Idolverse): https://www.instagram.com/idolverze/ Instagram (Mr. Unchainedunlimited): https://www.instagram.com/mr.unchainedunlimited/ Threads: https://www.threads.com/@mr.unchainedunlimited Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/idolverze.bsky.social📌 Subscribe for more indie comic interviews👍 Like & Share to support independent creators💬 Comment and join the Council of NerdsThe United States Department of Nerds — where indie comics come to life.
🎙️ From Art to Darkness: Lloyd Cheatham on Brother To The NightThis episode of The United States Department of Nerds features artist and self-publishing creator Lloyd Cheatham, the force behind Cheat Designs and AngryArtist74.Lloyd joins The Chairman to discuss his creative journey, using art as emotional expression, and the creation of his self-published indie comic Brother To The Night — a story rooted in darkness, purpose, and personal truth. We explore his artistic identity, the challenges of self-publishing, and what it means to build stories that resonate beyond the page.🦇 Topics Covered: • Artistic origins and creative identity • Emotional storytelling through comics • The world and themes of Brother To The Night • The realities of self-publishing indie comics • Advice for creators and supporters alikeSupport indie creators.The USDN Podcast - Where indie comics come to life.🔗 CONNECT WITH THE CREATORFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AngryArtist74Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cheat_designs TikTok: @cheat_designs
Walking Dead with Superhumans: The World of Flamevolt with Bruno CatarinoIn this episode of The United States Department of Nerds, the Chairman welcomes back comic creator Bruno Catarino to talk about his latest project, Flamevolt Issue #1 — a brutal, cinematic indie comic described as The Walking Dead with superhumans.Bruno dives into the inspiration behind Flamevolt, how his previous projects shaped this new series, and the creative process behind building a world driven by survival, power, and humanity. We explore the themes, visual identity, and why Issue #1 serves as a powerful entry point for new readers.The conversation also covers the Flamevolt Issue #1 Kickstarter, what backers can expect, and why supporting indie comics at the crowdfunding stage is more important than ever.If you’re passionate about indie comics, creator-owned storytelling, and discovering the next big voice in comics — this episode is for you.🎨 Guest: Bruno Catarino 📘 Project: Flamevolt Issue #1 🚀 Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/redwulfcomics/flamevolt-1-walking-dead-with-superhumans?ref=profile_saved_projects_live&category_id=Q2F0ZWdvcnktMjUwThe United States Department of Nerds — where indie comics come to life.
🎙️ USDN Podcast Interview: Michael J. Williams Writing Balance, Editing Power & Building Indie Comics That LastOn this episode of The USDN Podcast — Where Indie Comics Come to Life, we’re joined by Michael J. Williams, comic writer, editor, screenwriter, and Editor-in-Chief at Inked Studios.Michael has worked with Advent Comics, Grok Comics, Champion Comics, Alter Ego Arts, Super Serious Comics, Mazzi Productions, and has assisted on 40+ crowdfunding campaigns, contributing to projects connected to Wesley Snipes, Austin St. John, and Justin Gray.We dive deep into:Balancing writing, editing, and marketing as an indie creatorWhat makes a Kickstarter campaign succeedBuilding creator-owned worlds like Wild Oni and Iron JaguarEmbedding philosophy, mythology, and accountability into comicsThe current state — and future — of indie comicsMichael also shares insights from hosting the Comics’N’Poptarts podcast, mentoring through the Mississippi Gulf Coast Writers Guild, and advice for creators striving for sustainability in a demanding industry.🚀 Support Michael J. Williams🔗 Kickstarter https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sweetpeacomic/the-diary-of-sweet-pea-1-3📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mixchael_f4thght/📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mjfloriocomics4life🎧 Subscribe to The USDN Podcast New interviews spotlighting indie comic creators, crowdfunding projects, and creator-owned storytelling.🎙️ The USDN Podcast - Where Indie Comics Come to Life
Six Fifteen Comics: Creating Black Heroes, Culture, and CommunityOn this episode of The USDN Podcast — Where Indie Comics Come to Life, we’re joined by Malcolm McFadden, creator and writer of Six Fifteen Comics, to talk independent comics, creative inspiration, and his latest Kickstarter project The King’s Domain #1–2.Malcolm is a hip hop artist, writer, and audio engineer from Annapolis, Maryland, whose passion for comics began at a young age and evolved into a creator-owned comic company focused on telling dope, authentic stories centered around Black characters. Drawing inspiration from icons like Batman, Static, and Spider-Man, Malcolm blends real-life experiences with bold comic book storytelling.In this conversation, we explore:The creative origins of Six Fifteen ComicsThe story and meaning behind the name “Six Fifteen”How music influences comic book storytellingBuilding an indie comic brandA Kickstarter spotlight on The King’s Domain #1–2Advice for aspiring comic creators🚀 KickstarterThe King’s Domain #1–2 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sixfifteencomics/the-kings-domain-1-2🔗 Connect with Six Fifteen ComicsInstagram: @sixfifteencomicsFacebook: Sixfifteen ComicsTwitter/X: @615comicsTikTok: @yoanerd🎙️ The USDN Podcast — Where Indie Comics Come to Life.
🎙️ USDN PODCAST INTERVIEW — MARK BERTONInto the Heart of the Unknown: Cryptid Horror, Conspiracies & AROUGHCOUNEAuthor and former journalist Mark Berton joins the United States Department of Nerds Podcast to discuss Aroughcoune, a chilling cryptid horror novel that blends secret government experimentation, survival horror, Indigenous folklore, and ethical consequences rooted in reality.Set in the wilderness of Western Pennsylvania, Aroughcoune explores what happens when science pushes too far — and when ancient knowledge collides with modern secrecy.In this episode, we discuss:The real-world inspiration behind AroughcouneCryptids born from government experimentsJournalism’s influence on believable horrorSurvival horror in isolated environmentsFolklore as a counterbalance to scienceEthics, secrecy, and consequencesWhat’s next for Mark BertonThis isn’t just horror — it’s horror that feels possible.🔗 FEATURED LINKS🌐 Official Websites https://www.markberton.com https://www.roswellpublishing.co.uk📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/markbertonauthor📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/FrogElixir🧵 Threads https://www.threads.net/@FrogElixir🦋 Bluesky https://bsky.app/profile/markberton.com🎧 USDN PODCAST Exploring the strange, the dangerous, and the unknown. The USDN Podcast — Where Indie Comics Come to Life.#USDNPodcast,#MarkBerton,#Aroughcoune,#CryptidHorror,#IndieHorror,#HorrorAuthors,#FolkHorror,#CreatureHorror,#ConspiracyFiction,#WeirdHorror,#IndieBooks,#PodcastInterview,#HorrorCommunity,#SupernaturalFiction
🎙️ Indie Comics Spotlight: Evan Quiring Talks Murder City Devil & Lucha Mystery | USDN PodcastIn this episode of the USDN Podcast, The Chairman sits down with Evan Quiring, creator of Murder City Devil and Lucha Mystery, to talk noir horror, masked mythology, and over 20 years of grinding in indie comics.From Winnipeg, Manitoba to working with publishers like Antarctic Press, Dynamite, Markosia, and Big Bang Comics, Evan shares his journey as a writer/artist, the challenges of freelancing, and what it means to finally see his creator-owned series picked up by Studio Comix Press in 2025.We cover:The creation of Murder City DevilThe pulp-inspired world of Lucha MysteryVisual storytelling, process, and toolsSurvival, discipline, and advice for indie creatorsThe USDN Podcast — Where Indie Comics Come to Life. 🔗 Evan Quiring LinksYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@psyclonecomicsstudios Website: https://www.psyclonecomicsstudios.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/psyclone_comics_studios/ Studio Comix Press: https://www.instagram.com/studiocomix/#IndieComics,#EvanQuiring,#MurderCityDevil,#LuchaMystery,#IndieComicsPodcast,#CreatorOwnedComics,#ComicCreatorInterview,#NoirComics,#HorrorComics,#LuchaLibreComics,#MaskedHeroes,#PulpComics,#StudioComixPress,#FreelanceComicArtist,#WriterArtistComics,#USDNPodcast
🎙️ USDN PODCAST — Indie Comic Spotlight: Grinding Against The Marrow w/ Snake | USDN Podcast InterviewCreator of Grinding Against The Marrow“In every town, there’s a darkness people pretend not to see. A walkway they don’t walk down. A story they’re too afraid to hear. But sometimes… a storyteller shows up who’s willing to drag that story into the light.”This episode of the USDN Podcast features Snake — the UK indie comic creator behind Grinding Against The Marrow, a raw, poetic, street-level character drama published by Markosia.The story follows Soma, a homeless ex-junkie Muslim woman navigating the violence, prejudice, and claustrophobic hostility of her hometown. Blending parkour-driven action, poetry-infused narration, and brutal realism, Grinding Against The Marrow is quickly earning attention for its honesty, movement, and emotional weight.In this conversation, we explore:• The origins of Grinding Against The Marrow • Creating Soma and writing survival with authenticity • Using poetry as narrative muscle, not decoration • Building the oppressive world of Marrow • Working with Markosia and Webtoon Canvas • Audience feedback and creator growth • What’s next for Soma — and for SnakeThis is a story born from fractures — and shaped by resilience.The USDN Podcast — Where Indie Comics Come to Life. This is The Chairman, and the Council of Nerds is adjourned.🔗 GUEST LINKS📖 Grinding Against The Marrow (Webtoon): https://www.webtoons.com/en/canvas/grinding-against-the-marrow/list?title_no=1025007📸 Scott Matthew Watson (Snake) — Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/snake87smw/🛒 Publisher (Markosia): https://markosia.com/2025/10/17/grinding-against-the-marrow-1-on-drivethrucomics-and-comixology/
Quickwire Creator Matthew Jasso Talks Phantom Hawk, Apogee Comics & Indie Superheroes | USDN Podcast⚡🦅 THIS WEEK ON THE USDN PODCAST We sit down with Matthew Jasso, the mind behind the lightning-charged comedy of Quickwire and the shadow-soaked vengeance of Phantom Hawk Resolute from Apogee Comics.From reckless speedsters to brutal vigilantes, Jasso’s storytelling proves that indie comics don’t stay in one lane — they dominate all of them.⭐ Featured TitlesQuickwire #1 – “Electron Dance”A fast, hilarious, high-charge superhero debut starring Tyler Bao — a snack-loving speedster who never expected to become a hero.Phantom Hawk Resolute #1A dark vigilante rebirth filled with conspiracies, violence, and personal vengeance as Phantom Hawk targets Baseline Pharmaceuticals.🎤 What We Discuss:Building comedy, action, and emotion in QuickwireCrafting a darker vigilante world in Phantom Hawk ResoluteJasso’s writing processThe creative evolution of Apogee ComicsThe USDN Final Question🔗 Follow Matthew JassoYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheJassoman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejassoman/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Matthewjasso🔗 Follow the USDN PodcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@USDN_PodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/usdepartmentofnerdsTwitch: https://www.twitch.tv/usdn_chairman🎙️ The USDN Podcast — Where Indie Comics Come to Life. ⚡🦅 The Council of Nerds is adjourned.
HEAVY METAL WORLDS & MUTANT WARLORDS — Jason Lenox on Lords of the Cosmos #5Enter the cyber-fantasy wasteland of Lords of the Cosmos #5, where mutant warlords, mythic warriors, biomechanical nightmares, and 80s-infused chaos collide. The Chairman sits down with creator and illustrator Jason Lenox to explore the origins of the series, the new arcs introduced in Issue #5, the explosive war on Aiden, and the meticulous line-art process that defines Lenox’s unmistakable style.This episode dives deep into: • The birth and evolution of the LOTC universe • Mistress Zemba’s rising popularity • “Aliens meets Ninja Turtles” — the Pulse storyline • Building an 80s world for modern readers • Fan-created characters and the dual-campaign strategy🔗 OFFICIAL LINKS — SUPPORT & FOLLOW JASON LENOXIndiegogo (Lords of the Cosmos #5): https://www.indiegogo.com/en/projects/jasonlenox/lords-of-the-cosmos-issue-5Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lenoxartist/Press & Reviews: https://jasonlenox.com/pressandreviews/The USDN Podcast — Where Indie Comics Come to Life.
🎙️ USDN Podcast — “Horror Unbound” feat. Francisco Hnilo (@fah_draws) The Chairman returns with another deep-cut dive into the world of modern horror comics — from Boom Studios nightmares to Image Comics psychological terrors. Artist & storyteller Francisco Hnilo joins the Council to break down the books redefining fear in the 21st century.🔥 Topics Covered: • Boom Studios’ domination of modern horror • Psychological dread vs supernatural terror • Experimental horror from Bad Idea & IDW Dark • Image Comics creators rewriting the genre • Underrated indie horror comics you should be reading • Francisco Hnilo’s must-read horror recommendation📚 Featured Titles & Publishers: Boom Studios — Be Not Afraid, Grim, Hello Darkness, SIKTC, House of Slaughter, When I Lay My Vengeance Upon Thee, The Graveyard Club: Fresh Blood, Marian Heretic Oni Press / EC Comics — Blood Type, Catacombs of Torment, Epitaphs from the Abyss, Plague House Bad Idea & IDW Dark — Cul-De-Sac, Event Horizon: Dark Descent, The Exorcism at 1600 Penn Image Comics — Exquisite Corpses, Hyde Street, Fashion School Serial Killer, Sleep, Universal Monsters, W0rldtr33, Mommy Blog, The Deviant, Creepshow, Blood Train Indie Highlights — Lilith, Monsters, Don’t Run With Scissors, Masterminds, Vatican City, Let This One Be A Devil, Seance in the Asylum, Grimm Tales of Terror, The Nice House by the Sea📌 Follow the Guest: Instagram: @fah_draws🕯️ Keep the lights dim, keep your comics bagged… and remember: curiosity is the beginning of every horror story.#HorrorComics, #USDNPodcast, #HorrorUnbound, #ComicBookPodcast, #BoomStudios, #ImageComics, #IndieComics, #HorrorFans, #JamesTynionIV, #HorrorCommunity, #PodcastInterview, #ComicBookReviews, #DarkHorseComics, #VaultComics, #HorrorArt, #GraphicNovels






















