ATRIUM #1 — Inside the High-Stakes Thriller | Steve Bynoe Interview | Comix Asylum x USDN Podcast
In this episode of the USDN Podcast, The Chairman sits down with Steve Bynoe — writer, educator, Editorial Director at Comix Asylum, and co-creator of the action-suspense thriller ATRIUM #1.
ATRIUM marks Comix Asylum’s transition from covering comics to creating them, delivering a high-stakes, cinematic miniseries where a single donor heart becomes the center of a deadly chase.
🔥 ABOUT ATRIUM #1
Paramedics Naomi and Darnell are tasked with transporting a donor heart to a mysterious patient. But when a storm derails their route and a deadly strike team ambushes them, their mission turns into a desperate fight for survival — from city streets to the dark subway tunnels below.
A five-issue miniseries packed with tension, action, and character-driven storytelling, ATRIUM blends the energy of The Transporter with grounded, relentless suspense.
🎙️ IN THIS EPISODE WE DISCUSS:
• The creation and development of ATRIUM #1
• Comix Asylum’s shift from journalism to publishing
• Building a cinematic, action-suspense comic
• Assembling the creative team:
– Steve Bynoe (Writer)
– Peter Van Horne (Writer)
– Lucas Filappi (Artist)
– Nikos Koutsis & Mike Toris (Colorists)
– Gregory Parkin (Letters)
• What readers can expect from the 5-issue series
• Future plans for Comix Asylum
📲 FOLLOW STEVE BYNOE
Instagram: @stevebynoeart
Twitter/X: @SteveBynoe47
📡 FOLLOW COMIX ASYLUM
Instagram: @comixasylum
FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/comixasylum
Web site: https://www.comixasylum.com/
📢 INDIE CREATORS — WANT TO BE ON THE SHOW?
Email: thechairman@usdnpodcast.com
🎧 LISTEN & WATCH
This episode is available on:
✔️ YouTube
✔️ All major podcast platforms via Transistor
✔️ Facebook (Live Replay)
⚖️ OUTRO
This is The Chairman…
and the Council of Nerds is adjourned.
#ATRIUMComic, #ComixAsylum, #SteveBynoe, #IndieComics, #CreatorOwnedComics, #ComicCreators, #ComicBookInterview, #USDNPodcast, #ActionThrillerComics, #IndieComicPublishing, #LucasFilappi, #NikosKoutsis, #MikeToris, #GregoryParkin, #ComicBookCommunity
🎙️ USDN Podcast Interview — “SUPER CRAZY & A LITTLE WEIRD: Enter the World of N-Bolt”
Guest: James R Demery : Cartoonist / Illustrator
Host: The Chairman — USDN Podcast
Step into a world where imagination crackles with energy. In this episode, we sit down with James R Demery, the creator behind the electrifying, hyper-kinetic indie comic N-Bolt — a universe that’s super crazy, a little weird, and overflowing with style.
From his Baltimore origins to the creative spark that built the “Demeryverse,” James walks us through his artistic evolution, his storytelling philosophy, and the birth of one of the most original indie heroes on the scene.
Whether you’re an artist, writer, indie creator, or comics fan, this conversation is packed with insight, inspiration, and pure creative energy.
📚 ABOUT N-BOLT
A high-energy hero with power over raw electricity, N-Bolt’s world mixes fast-paced action, weird elements, and a vibrant art style that pops off the page. James reveals the inspirations, themes, and future plans for the character and the larger universe he’s building.
🔗 FOLLOW & SUPPORT JAMES R DEMERY
👉 Gumroad: https://jrdemery.gumroad.com/
👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jrdemery/
👉 Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/jamesrdemery
Support indie comics — creators like James make the scene powerful, diverse, and wildly imaginative.
🎧 FOLLOW THE USDN PODCAST
Where indie comics come to life and creators step behind the mic.
Subscribe for interviews, deep dives, creator spotlights, and more.
“N-Bolt is officially USDN Approved.
This is the Chairman… and the Council is adjourned.”
#IndieComics, #ComicBookCreator, #DigitalArt, #Illustration, #IndieArtist, #ComicBookInterview, #USDNPodcast, #NBolt, #JamesRDemery, #IndieComicsCommunity, #CreatorSpotlight, #ComicBookArt, #MakingComics, #Webcomics, #DigitalIllustration, #ComicBookUniverse, #ArtProcess, #DrawingComics, #ComicBookHeroes, #IndieComicsSpotlight, #BaltimoreArtists
🎙️ Horror-Holiday Launch: A VERY CARMILLA CHRISTMAS CAROL — Clay Adams & D.E. Schrader Interview
Snow falls… a candle flickers… and Carmilla rises again.
In this late-night horror-holiday special, the USDN Podcast welcomes Clay Adams : Co-Writer/Letterer and D.E. Schrader : Co-Writer/Filmmaker for the launch of their wicked new gothic one-shot:
🎄 A VERY CARMILLA CHRISTMAS CAROL
A sexy, spooky, sapphic, satirical reVamp of Dickens’ iconic ghost story — and the newest entry in the expanding Carmilla Unbound universe.
We dig into:
• How Carmilla collides with Dickens to create a new holiday nightmare
• The creation of villainous miser Elonezer Spooge
• Reinventing the Ghosts of Past, Present & Future
• Building the book’s wicked visual identity
• Variant covers and artistic themes
• Why this one-shot is a perfect entry point for new readers
• The evolution of Bloodline Comics
• What’s ahead for 2025–2026
🩸 Support the Kickstarter (Live Now)
🔗 Follow the Creators
@schraderopolis
@bloodlinecomics
@bloodlinecomicspictures
The USDN Podcast — Where Indie Comics Come to Life.
🎙️ USDN Podcast Interview — Giuseppe “Sabè” Di Stefano | Shockheaded Peter Vol. 2 | Indie Comics | Artist Spotlight
Step inside the creative world of Giuseppe “Sabè” Di Stefano, the dynamic Italian illustrator bringing haunting beauty, surreal atmosphere, and bold visual storytelling to the indie comic scene. In this USDN Podcast interview, The Chairman dives deep into Sabè’s artistic journey, his unique illustrative style, and his work on the striking new release Shockheaded Peter Vol. 2, written by E.B. Kogan and Jessica Silvetti.
Whether you're a fan of indie horror, expressive illustration, or international comic artistry, this episode delivers a rich behind-the-scenes look at a creator whose work stands out in every panel.
🖌️ What We Discuss
📘 Featured Project
Shockheaded Peter Vol. 2
A dark, surreal, visually stunning continuation of the cult-favorite horror-fantasy series. Sabè breaks down the artistic process, inspirations, and challenges behind crafting such a wildly imaginative world.
📅 Episode Details
📍 Recorded live on the USDN Podcast
🎙️ Hosted by The Chairman
⏰ Runtime: Approx. 60 minutes
🎨 Guest: Giuseppe “Sabè” Di Stefano (Artist/Illustrator)
🔗 Follow Sabè
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sabe_89_art/
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@sabe_89_art
🔗 Follow the USDN Podcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/usdn_podcast/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/usdepartmentofnerds
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/usdnpodcast
Threads: https://www.threads.com/@usdn_podcast
#USDNPodcast #GiuseppeDiStefano #Sabe #ShockheadedPeter #IndieComics #ComicBookArtists #HorrorComics #ComicArt #ArtistInterview #IndieCreators #ComicBookCommunity #DigitalArt #Illustration #ComicsInterview #USDN #CouncilOfNerds
🎙️ USDN Podcast Interview — “GENERAL WASHINGTON & THE LIBERTY TREE #1”
Guest: John Luzar — Writer/Creator
Originally streamed: Thursday, November 13 @ 7PM EST
🔥 ABOUT THIS EPISODE
What happens when a symbol becomes a battleground?
In this USDN Podcast interview, we dive deep into the new Kickstarter comic General Washington & The Liberty Tree #1, a bold and provocative superhero story that explores the weight of legacy, race, and national identity in a country struggling to define itself.
A decade after the original General Washington’s tragic death, the alien symbiont that granted his powers has remained dormant—until now.
We talk with writer John Luzar about:
⚡ Reimagining patriotic iconography in the modern era
⚡ The mythology behind the alien symbiont
⚡ Superheroes in politically charged times
⚡ Working with Jason Muhr, Mark Englert, Kelly Williams, and team
⚡ The Kickstarter campaign’s goals and stretch plans
⚡ Why this story resonates right now
📌 SUPPORT THE COMIC ON KICKSTARTER
Back it here ➜ https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/worthcost/general-washington-and-the-liberty-tree
Email for interviews: thechairman@usdnpodcast.com
General Washington and the Liberty Tree, John Luzar interview, Resistance Comics, patriotic superheroes, political superhero comics, indie comics, Kickstarter comics 2025, Jason Muhr art, alien symbiont comics, American identity comics, USDN Podcast interview, comic book podcast, comic book Kickstarter, new indie comic release.
🎙️ USDN Podcast LIVE from Cape Con!
The Chairman and the Council of Nerds hit the convention floor for USDN’s first-ever live panel!
Recorded live in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, this episode brings unfiltered energy and community spirit as the team dives into indie comics, TMNT nostalgia, and the storytelling roots of wrestling.
Now streaming on all podcast platforms.
Follow and connect:
IG: @usdn_podcast
FB: United States Department of Nerds
Threads: @usdn_podcast
Bluesky: usdn-chairman.bsky.social
Guests: @mac_aka_yaboy | @blakmakk
Event Partner: @cape_events1
#USDNPodcast, #CapeCon, #IndieComics, #PopCulturePodcast, #TMNT, #DFPN, #LivePanel, #WrestlingFandom, #ConventionCulture, #NerdCommunity, #ComicBookCreators
🎙️ USDN Podcast Interview: “POWERSCAPE — The Game That Rules the Future”
Guest: Donal Thoms-Cappello (Writer | Creator)
Runtime: ~60 minutes
Tone: Futuristic | Philosophical | Sci-Fi Spectacle
In the 28th century, survival means winning the game.
Join The Chairman of The United States Department of Nerds (USDN) for a deep dive with Donal Thoms-Cappello, creator of the visionary sci-fi saga POWERSCAPE — a series two decades in the making that explores competition, control, and civilization’s final play for survival.
⚡ About POWERSCAPE
It’s the year 2798 A.D. Earth is scorched, the air unbreathable, and humanity clings to life under the domes of franchise cities powered by alien energy known as C.O.R.E..
The only way to keep the lights on? A brutal, world-defining sport called Powerball — where entire civilizations compete for energy, power, and existence itself.
POWERSCAPE is a futuristic exploration of empire, identity, and spectacle — blending cyberpunk aesthetics, sociopolitical commentary, and philosophical storytelling in a universe where the line between entertainment and survival no longer exists.
🧠 In This Episode
💥 Support the Campaign
🔹 Kickstarter — POWERSCAPE Issue #2:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/65dollarfuneral/powerscape-issue-2?ref=nav_search&result=project&term=powerscape&total_hits=9
🔹 Patreon — Exclusive Content & Behind-the-Scenes:
https://www.patreon.com/cw/Powerscape_comic
🔹 Follow Donal Thoms-Cappello on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/donalthomscappello/
🎧 About USDN Podcast
The United States Department of Nerds is a cinematic podcast dedicated to the worlds of independent comics, creators, and imaginative storytelling. Hosted by The Chairman, each episode explores how creators build worlds, challenge genres, and redefine what storytelling can be.
#USDNPodcast, #Powerscape, #DonalThomsCappello, #SciFiComics, #IndieComics, #KickstarterComics, #CyberpunkComics, #FuturisticComics, #ComicBookPodcast, #ComicCreatorInterview, #IndieComicCreators, #ComicBookCommunity, #SciFiStorytelling, #USDNShorts, #TheChairman, #UnitedStatesDepartmentOfNerds, #PowerballGame, #CrowdfundedComics, #SciFiPodcast, #FutureSports, #ComicBookCulture
🎙️ USDN Podcast Interview: “ZombieCON Vol. 1 — Cosplay, Carnage & Con Culture”
Guests: Kyle Valle (Director & Co-Writer), Erin Áine (Lead Actor & Co-Writer)
Welcome to the United States Department of Nerds, where fandom meets the apocalypse.
This week, The Chairman sits down with Kyle Valle and Erin Áine — the creative forces behind 🧟♀️ ZombieCON Vol. 1, a blood-splattered love letter to convention culture, cosplay, and chaos.
🎬 About the Film:
When a group of die-hard fans accidentally unleashes a real zombie outbreak, the line between costume and corpse disappears.
Equal parts Shaun of the Dead and Galaxy Quest, ZombieCON Vol. 1 delivers practical effects, meta humor, and indie-horror heart.
💀 In This Episode:
The origins of ZombieCON Vol. 1 — where cosplay meets carnage
The creative partnership of Valle & Áine and their fandom-fueled vision
Indie filmmaking tricks that made a small-budget horror feel like a blockbuster apocalypse
Behind-the-scenes stories: gallons of fake blood, real convention chaos
Plus: Exclusive teases of ZombieCON Vol. 2
🧩 Where to Watch:
ZombieCON Vol. 1 is available now on all major VOD platforms in North America, with a DVD release on October 14th.
🔗 Watch, rent, or buy here → https://zombieconvol1.com
🎬 More links → https://linktr.ee/ZombieCONVol1
📲 Follow the Movie:
@zombieconmovie — across Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok & YouTube
Tag them and join the undead fandom!
#zombieconvol1
👥 Cast & Crew on Instagram:
🎥 @bigsquidfilms • 🎭 @kykyv71 • 🩸 @erin_aine
💀 @joebezko • 🧟 @mannyluke4 • 🧛 @punkiejohnson
🎬 @chriscasi • 🧠 @cmendez78 • 🎨 @nicholemcauley
📻 About USDN:
Hosted by The Chairman, USDN Podcast dives deep into indie comics, films, and the creative minds behind them.
Subscribe for cinematic interviews, fandom spotlights, and original genre storytelling.
🕯️ Watch Now — because at the end of the con… we all look a little undead.
#ZombieCONVol1, #ZombieCONMovie, #IndieHorror, #HorrorComedy, #USDNPodcast, #HorrorInterview, #Halloween2024, #CosplayHorror, #FandomCulture, #KyleValle, #ErinÁine, #BigSquidFilms, #IndieFilm, #ZombieMovie, #HorrorPodcast
🎙️ USDN Podcast: “Memoirs of the Morbid: The Orange Edition” — An Evening with Grant Lankard & The Ghoulmaster
Step inside the crypt with The Chairman of The United States Department of Nerds (USDN Podcast) as he sits down with Grant Lankard, creator of Beowulf, League of Cryptids, and the haunting horror anthology Memoirs of the Morbid.
This episode dives deep into The Orange Edition — the latest volume in Lankard’s macabre series inspired by classic 1950s EC horror. Expect twisted morality tales, dark humor, and ghoulish satire, all introduced by the delightfully dreadful host, The Ghoulmaster.
💀 In this chillingly fun interview, we cover:
The eerie origins of Memoirs of the Morbid and its EC horror inspiration
How Grant transitioned from graphic design to full-time indie comics
A behind-the-scenes look at The Orange Edition — including stories like Cubicle of the Damned, Bubble, Fiona’s Fantasy Forest, and Invaders
The incredible creative team: Brian K. Morris, Will Conway, Alberto Pessoa, Samir Simao, and David Schuler
The challenges (and joys) of creating a modern horror anthology in 2025
Tips for indie creators ready to bring their own nightmares to life
If you love Creepshow, Tales from the Crypt, or EC Comics classics, this episode is for you! 🕯️
🧠 Featuring:
Grant Lankard — Creator / Writer
🎙️ Hosted by: The Chairman of USDN Podcast
📘 Back the Campaign:
🧡 Memoirs of the Morbid: The Orange Volume on Kickstarter →
👉 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/mrgrantastic/memoirs-of-the-morbid-orange-volume?ref=discovery&term=memoirs%20of%20the%20morbid&total_hits=3&category_id=249
📸 Follow Grant Lankard on Instagram:
👉 https://www.instagram.com/gwlankard/
🪦 Follow the Team:
🌐 www.RisingTide.pub
🌐 www.willconway.co.uk
🎧 Subscribe for more indie comic interviews, horror spotlights, and creative deep dives — only on The USDN Podcast.
#USDNPodcast, #MemoirsoftheMorbid, #GrantLankard, #TheGhoulmaster, #horrorcomics , #indiecomics , #kickstartercomics , #comicbookinterview , #horrorpodcast , #independentcomics , #supportindiecomics , #eccomics , #TalesFromTheCrypt, #creepshow , #usdn , #indiehorror , #horroranthology , #usdnshorts , #comiccreators , #thechairman , #horrorfans
🎙️ USDN Podcast: The Speed of Independence with Apogee Comics
Buckle up and get ready to move at the speed of imagination! 🏁
In this episode of The USDN Podcast, The Chairman sits down with the creative team behind Apogee Comics — Nick Garber, Matthew Jasso, and Harshstroke — to talk about their electrifying new indie superhero series, Quickwire #1 ⚡.
From Apogee’s powerful merger of Guerilla ComX and Move The World to their mission of pushing the limits of independent storytelling, this conversation dives deep into creation, collaboration, and community. We explore how Quickwire came to life, the art of capturing motion on the page, and the upcoming Kickstarter campaign that will bring this lightning-fast hero to readers everywhere.
💬 Topics Covered:
The origins and philosophy of Apogee Comics
The creative journey behind Quickwire #1
How to balance speed, humor, and character depth in superhero storytelling
Insights into their Kickstarter campaign and what fans can expect
Whether you’re a long-time indie comics fan or new to the scene, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes that independent doesn’t mean slow.
🚀 Watch now and discover how Apogee Comics continues to redefine “The Height of Independent Comic Entertainment.”
🎧 Listen on all major podcast platforms & YouTube!
📍 Follow Apogee Comics:
🌐 Website: https://www.apogeecomics.com/
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apogeecomics/
📅 Featuring:
Nick Garber: Creator / Founder
Matthew Jasso: Writer
Harshstroke: Artist
🎙️ Hosted by The Chairman of The United States Department of Nerds (USDN)
#USDNPodcast, #ApogeeComics, #Quickwire, #IndieComics, #KickstarterComics, #ComicBookInterview, #ComicCreators, #NickGarber, #MatthewJasso, #Harshstroke, #MichaelWoods, #IndieComicSpotlight, #USDN, #ComicPodcast, #SuperheroComics, #Quickwire1, #IndependentComics, #ComicBookCommunity, #SupportIndieComics, #ApogeeUniverse, #USDNShorts, #USDNPodcastInterview, #TheChairman, #IndieComicCreators, #KickstarterLaunch, #BehindThePanels, #ComicBookCulture, #IndieComicPower, #TheSpeedOfIndependence
🎙️ USDN Podcast Interview: “THE PLAGUE: ILL FATE — Vengeance Rises in the Shadows of New Orleans”
A Halloween Special Presentation from the United States Department of Nerds (USDN Podcast)
🕯️ Step into 2030 New Orleans — a city drowning in corruption, sin, and smoke. From the ashes of betrayal rises THE PLAGUE: ILL FATE, a supernatural-action horror from Lucky Devil Comics that drags vengeance straight out of the grave.
In this hour-long Halloween special, The Chairman sits down with the Lucky Devil Comics team to unearth the dark origins behind their cursed avenger — a man executed for crimes he didn’t commit and reborn with hellish power.
🔥 What to Expect in This Episode:
The origin and evolution of The Plague — from concept to cursed legend
The moral decay of a futuristic New Orleans
The cost of revenge, justice, and damnation
The visual style and grimy VHS horror tone that define the series
The grind of indie creation and launching The Plague Kickstarter
What’s next for Lucky Devil Comics and their infernal universe
💀 Whether you’re a fan of Spawn, The Crow, Punisher, or Robocop, this episode dives deep into the art of crafting vengeance-fueled horror with indie grit and supernatural fire.
📢 Support the Creators:
Follow Lucky Devil Comics and back The Plague: Ill Fate on Kickstarter to help bring this dark vision to life.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1461695832/the-plague-1-ill-fate?ref=user_menu
🕸️ Watch / Listen Now — if you dare.
Because sometimes… justice doesn’t come from Heaven — it rises from Hell.
#USDNPodcast, #ThePlagueIllFate, #LuckyDevilComics, #IndieComics, #KickstarterComics, #ComicBookInterview, #HorrorComics, #HalloweenSpecial, #SupernaturalComics, #DarkComics, #ComicBookPodcast, #SpawnFans, #TheCrow, #Robocop, #Punisher, #NewOrleans, #RevengeStory, #IndieCreators, #USDN, #TheChairman, #ComicBookCommunity, #HorrorPodcast, #VengeanceFromHell, #ComicKickstarter, #IndieComicSpotlight
🎙️ USDN Podcast Interview: “Something Wicked Blooms in the Bayou” — A Halloween Special Presentation
Step into the haunted neon glow of 1980s New Orleans as The Chairman of the USDN Podcast sits down with Christopher R. Ford, creator of the hit Kickstarter comic DARK PINK — “The World’s Freshest New Comic Adventure.”
This cinematic Halloween episode dives deep into the supernatural streets of 198X New Orleans, blending noir mystery, 80s music, and monstrous horror into one unforgettable story.
🕯️ In This Interview:
The origins and inspirations behind Dark Pink
Why the 80s setting and music integration make it a one-of-a-kind comic experience
How Dara Pinkerton’s investigation leads to something far darker than she expected
The powerhouse art team featuring Keron Grant, Khari Evans, Robyn Smith, PJ Kaiowa, and more
What it takes to build a top 1% Kickstarter success story
And what’s next for the Dark Pink universe
💀 Whether you’re a fan of Blade Runner, The Crow, or True Detective, this is the perfect spooky season story you don’t want to miss.
Follow Dark Pink Comics:
https://www.instagram.com/darkpinkcomics/
🩸 Back the DARK PINK Kickstarter before it’s gone:
👉 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/darkpinkcomics/dark-pink-comics
#USDNPodcast, #DarkPink, #ChristopherRFord, #IndieComics, #KickstarterComics, #ComicBookInterview, #NoirComics, #HorrorComics, #NeonNoir, #80sNewOrleans, #HalloweenSpecial, #ComicBookCreators, #IndieComicSpotlight, #TheChairman, #USDN, #KickstarterSuccess, #SupernaturalStories, #ComicPodcast, #HalloweenPodcast, #BayouHorror
🎙️ USDN Podcast Interview — John McGuire: In Our Dreams Awake #3 | Dreampunk Indie Comic Kickstarter
Welcome back to the United States Department of Nerds Podcast, where we’re for the people, by the people, and of the people.
In this episode, The Chairman sits down with John McGuire, writer of In Our Dreams Awake #3 — a haunting, genre-bending dreampunk comic where two worlds collide: one ruled by magic, and one consumed by cyberpunk decay.
It’s a story that explores dreams, dual realities, and identity, asking the question: What if you could never be sure which world was real?
🌙 Episode Highlights
🚀 Support the Kickstarter
In Our Dreams Awake #3 is live now on Kickstarter!
👉 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ioda/in-our-dreams-awake-3-a-dreampunk-comic
Back the project, grab exclusive rewards, and help bring this dreampunk vision to life!
🧠 About the Guest
John McGuire is the writer behind In Our Dreams Awake, The Gilded Age, Hollow Empire, and The Dark That Follows. A lifelong storyteller of speculative fiction, he blends sci-fi, fantasy, and philosophical mystery to explore the border between reality and imagination.
💀 About the Series
In Our Dreams Awake follows Jason Byron, a man trapped between two worlds — one mystical, one mechanical. As both realities begin to collapse, Jason must uncover which life is real… and which is only a dream.
Blending fantasy, cyberpunk, and surrealism, it’s a must-read for fans of Inception, Sandman, and Blade Runner.
🎧 Available Now:
📺 Watch the full video here on YouTube
🎙️ Listen on all podcast platforms — just search USDN Podcast
#InOurDreamsAwake #JohnMcGuire #USDNPodcast #IndieComics #KickstarterComics #HorrorFantasy #Dreampunk #CyberpunkComics #FantasyComics #ComicBookInterview #GraphicNovel #ComicKickstarter #IndieComicInterview #ComicBookCreators #PodcastInterview #IndieComicPodcast #SpeculativeFiction #Dreamscape #CreativeWriting #HalloweenPodcast
🎙️ USDN Podcast Interview w/ E.B. Kogan & Jessica Silvetti — Shockheaded Peter Vol. 2
Film to Fantasy: E.B. Kogan & Jessica Silvetti on Shockheaded Peter
Welcome back to the United States Department of Nerds Podcast! I’m The Chairman, and today we’re diving into the haunting, fantastical world of Shockheaded Peter, the second installment of a 3-part horror-fantasy graphic novel series.
Joining me are E.B. Kogan (Empire, Ordinary Joe, In Our Blood) and Jessica Silvetti (Juego de las llaves, In Absentia) — a powerhouse writing duo with deep roots in film and television who are now unleashing their nightmarish vision into the indie comics scene.
About Shockheaded Peter Vol. 2
A chilling cautionary tale of marvelous retribution and dreadful delight, Shockheaded Peter conjures a crossbreed of Labyrinth and A Nightmare on Elm Street — by way of Studio Ghibli. The story follows Ruby, a teenage girl with an actual broken heart, as she’s drawn into the crusade of a mysterious harbinger of punishment.
With evocative art from Giuseppe Sabè Di Stefano, this series balances gruesome fates with strange whimsy, creating a horror-fantasy like no other.
In this interview, we cover:
How their Hollywood backgrounds shaped the pacing of the comic
The collaborative process behind creating a layered, surreal world
The inspirations that fuel Shockheaded Peter’s blend of horror, folklore, and fantasy
Ruby’s journey in Book Two — and hints at what’s to come in the finale
Bringing the series to readers through Kickstarter and the importance of fan support
📚 Support Shockheaded Peter Vol. 2 on Kickstarter: [Insert Kickstarter Link]
Follow the creators:
🔗 E.B. Kogan — https://www.instagram.com/ebkfromla/
🔗 Jessica Silvetti — https://www.instagram.com/jess_silvetti/
✨ Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to USDN for more indie comic spotlights, creator interviews, and nerd culture deep dives.
#ShockheadedPeter #IndieComics #USDNPodcast #KickstarterComics #HorrorFantasy
USDN Interview | Ben Lacy – Shark of War #9 (Kickstarter Live Now!)
Welcome back to The United States Department of Nerds (USDN)! 🎙️ Today we dive into one of the most outrageous, high-octane indie comics on the scene: Shark of War 🦈💥.
Joining me is Ben Lacy (writer/artist/creator) to talk about the epic finale of The Whales of War Arc in Shark of War #9, now live on Kickstarter!
In this episode, we discuss:
What makes Shark of War stand out in the indie scene
The rise of the Mega Whale of War 🐋 (the biggest villain yet)
Gnasher’s escape from the Lab of Terrors & what it means
How new readers can catch up with all 9 issues
Kickstarter rewards, campaign perks & indie comic insights
What’s next for Gnasher after this arc wraps
If you’re a fan of wild concepts, cyber-sharks, and boss-level storytelling, you don’t want to miss this one.
🔗 Back Shark of War #9 on Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/bitingcomics/shark-of-war-1-9-final-boss-battle?ref=discovery&term=shark%20of%20war&total_hits=12&category_id=250
🌐 Follow Ben Lacy & Shark of War:
Website: https://mailchi.mp/ed97fcc5707b/bitingcomics
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sharkofwar
👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more indie comic interviews and Kickstarter spotlights!
#SharkOfWar, #IndieComics, #KickstarterComics, #USDNPodcast, #ComicBooks, #IndieCreators, #SupportIndieComics, #MegaWhaleOfWar
Writing Imperfect Superhumans: The Story Behind Zip | USDN Interview with Mike Scrase
Hello Council Members! I’m The Chairman of The United States Department of Nerds (USDN), and today we’re diving into the world of ZIP — the British comic about flawed superhumans that doubles as a smart commentary on disability.
Joining me is Mike Scrase (Writer), the creator of Zip, published by Markosia Enterprises. With stunning art by San Espina and lettering by Ferran Delgado, Zip has already delivered three powerful issues — and now Issue #4 is heading to Kickstarter!
In this episode, we’ll explore:
The origins of Zip and Mike’s journey into comics
How disability became central to the story of imperfect superhumans
The challenges and care taken when writing about disability responsibly
What’s in store for Issue #4 (funerals, time travel, and huge twists!)
The Kickstarter campaign, rewards, and why indie publishing matters
If you’ve ever wanted to know how to write superhumans with depth, care, and realism — this is the episode for you.
🔗 Kickstarter for Zip #4 (Launching Sept 16th): https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/mikescrase/zip4?ref=discovery&term=zip&total_hits=5145&category_id=250
🌐 Follow The Creator & Project:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zipcomicuk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zipcomicuk
👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more creator interviews and indie comic spotlights!
#ZipComic #IndieComics #KickstarterComics #USDNPodcast #Superheroes #DisabilityRepresentation
📺 When Good Looks Kill: The Origin of Greg | Duke Electric Interview | United States Department of Nerds (USDN)
Hello There, it's The Chairman of the United States Department of Nerds (USDN)—where we are for the people, by the people, and of the people!
In this episode, we’re joined by the multi-talented Duke Electric—creator, writer, and artist behind the outrageous new independent comic series GREG Issue #0: The Delivery Room (now live on Kickstarter)!
GREG tells the story of a man so good looking… that if you see his face, your head will literally explode. In this in-depth interview, Duke shares the wild origins of GREG, his journey from animation and live music to comics, and why he chose Kickstarter to bring this explosive debut to life.
🧠 What You’ll Hear in This Episode
Duke’s creative journey through Warner Bros., Netflix, PBS, Nickelodeon, and DreamWorks
How his experience in animation and music shaped his comic-making process
The origin story of GREG and the tone, style, and inspirations behind it
A peek at the rewards, perks, and stretch goals in the GREG Kickstarter campaign
Duke’s long-term vision for the GREG series
📢 Support Independent Comics!
Back GREG Issue #0: The Delivery Room on Kickstarter and help bring this over-the-top, hilarious, and action-packed story to life.
Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/gregcomicofficial/greg-issue-0-the-delivery-room-massacre?ref=discovery&term=greg&total_hits=1252&category_id=250
🎨 Follow Duke Electric on social media for updates, art drops, and appearances during the campaign.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregcomicofficial/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/dukeelectric.bsky.social
📲 Follow USDN for More Creator Interviews & Comic Book Content
YouTube: Subscribe to USDN
💥 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more interviews with the minds behind the most creative indie comics on the planet.
#USDN #DukeElectric #GregComic #IndieComics #KickstarterComics #ComicBookInterview #SupportIndieComics #USDNPodcast #CreatorInterview #ComicBookCommunity
Hello there, it’s The Chairman of the United States Department of Nerds (USDN)—where we are for the people, by the people, and of the people!
In this episode, I sit down with Bruno Catarino to talk about his brand-new comic book project, Crimson Bay—a dark, action-packed series inspired by 1990s fighting games and brought to life through Kickstarter.
We dive into:
🔥 The origins of Crimson Bay
🔥 The unique characters and stories within the series
🔥 Bruno’s creative process and inspirations
🔥 What backers can expect from the Kickstarter campaign
🔥 The future vision of Crimson Bay beyond crowdfunding
Whether you’re a comic book fan, an indie comics supporter, or a backer who loves discovering fresh, creator-driven stories, this interview gives you everything you need to know about Crimson Bay and why it deserves a spot on your pull list.
👉 Don’t forget to check out Bruno Catarino’s Kickstarter for Crimson Bay and support indie comics!
📌 Follow USDN for more creator interviews, comic book spotlights, and weekly recommendations.
Support the Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/redwulfcomics/crimson-bay-1-martial-arts-comic-inspired-by-90s-vgs?ref=discovery&term=bruno%20catarino&total_hits=8&category_id=250
#USDN #CrimsonBay #BrunoCatarino #ComicBookInterview #IndieComics #KickstarterComics #ComicBookCommunity #ComicBookFans #NewComics #ComicCreators
What happens when superheroes aren’t perfect? In this deep-dive interview, The Chairman of the United States Department of Nerds sits down with Mike Scrase, writer of Zip—a British indie comic published by Markosia Enterprises that redefines what it means to be superhuman.
Together, we explore:
🔹 The Creator Origin Story – Mike’s comic book beginnings and how Zip was born
🔹 The Story Behind Zip – Themes of identity, disability, and realism in a superhero world
🔹 Writing Disability, Responsibly – Avoiding tropes, doing the research, and listening to readers
🔹 Publishing & Kickstarter – Why the team is going the crowdfunding route for Issue #4
🔹 Creative Process – Collaboration with San Espina (Art) and Ferran Delgado (Lettering)
🔹 Lightning Round – British comic favorites, casting dreams, and Mike’s writing playlist
🔹 Call to Action – Where to get Zip and how to support the upcoming Kickstarter
This is more than a comic—it’s a conversation about representation, creative independence, and crafting stories that matter.
📚 Issues 1–3 of Zip are available now on Amazon and DriveThruComics
🚀 Kickstarter for Issue #4 is coming soon—links below to stay updated!
🧠 Issue 1 Creative Credits:
🔗 Stay Connected:
📌 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/mikescrase/zip4?ref=discovery&term=zip&total_hits=5117&category_id=250
📌 https://www.instagram.com/zipcomicuk/
#ZipComic #MikeScrase #Markosia #IndieComics #BritishComics #ComicBookInterview #DisabilityInComics #RepresentationMatters #SuperheroStories #KickstarterComics #ComicBookWriters #USDNShorts #ComicsThatMatter
🎨 Inside the Mind of Vitalerium’s Artist: Francisco Hnilo Interview | Comic Book Art, Webtoons & More
In this exclusive USDN interview, we sit down with Francisco Hnilo—the talented artist behind Vitalerium—to dive deep into his creative origins, process, inspirations, and what's next for this visually stunning comic series.
From storyboards to posters and Webtoons, Francisco shares how he broke into the world of comic book illustration and why Vitalerium stood out to him as a project worth diving into. We explore everything from character design and artistic influences to his preferred tools and techniques.
Whether you're an artist, comic fan, or someone looking for behind-the-scenes insight into a futuristic, mythic, and visually rich indie title—this one's for you.
🔗 Follow Francisco Hnilo:
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fah_draws/
📢 Subscribe for more interviews, reviews, and comic book deep dives!
#Vitalerium #FranciscoHnilo #ComicBookArtist #USDNShorts #ComicInterview #IndieComics #WebtoonArtist #VisualStorytelling #MakingComics #BehindTheScenes #ComicArtProcess #ComicBookCommunity #DigitalArt #StoryboardArtist #SciFiComics #MythicSciFi #ComicBookDesign #USDN