Storycomic Weekly Newsletter: April 13th
ALWAYS POSTED A WEEK EARLIER ON PATREON
Podcast Updates
Due to my bout of catching the winter crud from my kids, I had to delay a couple of interviews last week. This meant that I had a big catch-up of conversations. This past week, I had four interviews!
Kim Ward
In Episode 347 of Storycomic Presents, I had the distinct pleasure of welcoming Kim Ward, a revered poet and playwright who has left an indelible mark on Vermont's literary scene. Celebrated for her debut collection "Fire on a Circle," Kim unveils a universe where poetry becomes a beacon of hope, guiding us through the intricacies of survival, self-discovery, and a profound reverence for ancestral ties.
Grounded in the lush landscapes of Vermont, "Fire on a Circle" is a testament to Kim's dedication to exploring the spiritual roots of existence. Through her mastery of free verse, verse monologue, and ancient Nordic formats, she weaves a tapestry rich with the struggles against addiction, the legacy of her family's matriarchs, and the essence of pagan practices. Her work, praised for its passionate and hopeful tone, offers sharp insights into the human spirit's resilience.
Kim's journey from founding the Vermont Playwrights Circle to teaching English at Norwich University showcases her multifaceted contributions to the arts. "Fire on a Circle" is a powerful reminder of poetry's ability to illuminate the darkest corners of our lives, offering solace and understanding. Kim Ward's voice is a fresh addition to Vermont's poetic landscape, inviting readers to find solace in the shared human experience of navigating life's fiercest fires.
Fugitive Poems
Episode 348 of Storycomic Presents marks a thrilling moment for comic book enthusiasts. I sat down with the creative trio behind Fugitive Poems Comics: Christian De Matteo, James Lines, and Mark Capitelli. This episode is not just a reunion with these incomparably talented creators; it's a platform for some groundbreaking announcements that are set to stir the comic book community.
Fugitive Poems Comics, known for their innovative and collaborative storytelling approach, has already made waves with their unique narratives and captivating art. The team came together to share the evolution of their creative endeavors, from individual passions to forming a comic book entity that defies conventional storytelling. With projects like "Finis" showcasing their ability to blend the surreal with the profoundly human, Fugitive Poems has carved a niche in readers' hearts.
This particular episode offers listeners exclusive insights into what lies ahead for Fugitive Poems. The team's eagerness to unveil their upcoming projects and announcements adds an electrifying anticipation to the discussion. As they peel back the curtain on their future plans, De Matteo, Lines, and Capitelli affirm their commitment to pushing the boundaries of the comic book genre.
Join us for this revealing episode as we celebrate the art of storytelling with Fugitive Poems Comics and discover what surprises they have in store for their growing legion of fans.
Ryan Drost
In Episode 349 of Storycomic Presents, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Ryan Drost, the visionary behind the enchanting all-ages comic Stealth Hammer. What began as a playful nickname for his wife, Jami, blossomed into a sprawling superhero saga that invites readers into a world of wonder, adventure, and discovery.
"Stealth Hammer" tells the story of Jami Taylor, a college student whose ordinary life is upended when she inherits extraordinary powers, unveiling a family legacy shrouded in mystery and magic. Ryan's narrative is not just about the birth of a superhero; it's a heartfelt exploration of identity, legacy, and destiny, meticulously crafted for readers young and old.
Throughout the interview, Ryan delved into the creative odyssey of birthing Stealth Hammer, from the initial spark of inspiration to the collaborative effort of bringing the comic to life. His passion for storytelling shines through in his detailed world-building and the richly developed characters that inhabit the Stealth Hammer universe.
Ryan's dedication to creating an engaging, all-ages comic reflects his belief in the power of comics to inspire and entertain. As Stealth Hammer continues to expand its reach, Ryan and his team at Stealth Hammer are committed to providing a space where imagination knows no bounds, and every reader can find a piece of themselves within the pages.
Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos
Episode 350 of Storycomic Presents opens a portal to the universe of 'Event Horizon: Stories of No Turning Back' as I sat down with the acclaimed Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos. This unique collection, currently featured on Kickstarter, invites readers to explore the vastness of space and the depths of the human condition through a mix of prose, comics, and visual art. Inspired by the concept of black holes' event horizons, Pitsirilos collaborates with various celebrated artists to ponder the ultimate cosmic question: what lies beyond the point of no return?
'Event Horizon' transcends traditional storytelling, creating a kaleidoscopic experience that blends scientific curiosity with profound human insights. Stephanie's ability to navigate the complexities of astrophysical phenomena and existential dilemmas makes this collection a must-read for science fiction and literary art fans. The book promises a journey as unpredictable and mesmerizing as the cosmos itself, encouraging readers to reflect on their own "event horizons" in life.
With her fifth appearance on Storycomic Presents, Stephanie continues to support and inspire the podcast community with her visionary work. 'Event Horizon' is a literary exploration and a visual feast promising to captivate readers with its astrophysical accuracy and imaginative storytelling. Join Stephanie and delve into the cosmic wonders and human truths awaiting in 'Event Horizon.'
Project Updates
Just a quick update on the 'Daddest Jokes' front: progress is steady but slow. I'm still in the thick of gathering and curating those groan-worthy one-liners and puns that dads everywhere love to share. It's a labor of love, sifting through the classics and uncovering new gems to ensure the next book is packed with fresh laughs. Thanks for hanging in there with me. More updates will come as I inch closer to completion!
"Tintin in the Land of the Soviets": A Spirited Beginning
Diving into "Tintin in the Land of the Soviets" is like opening a time capsule, offering a glimpse into the nascent stages of one of the most iconic characters in comic history. As Hergé's inaugural foray into the adventures of Tintin, this black-and-white comic strip is both a historical artifact and a testament to the enduring charm of Tintin's world.
The simplicity of the storyline, coupled with its raw artistic style, marks the humble beginnings of Tintin's journey. It's fascinating to see a character we've come to know and love in his formative stage, not yet fully realized but brimming with the potential that would captivate readers for generations. The adventure, set against the backdrop of the Soviet Union, is a thrilling ride that showcases Tintin's innate knack for navigating through difficult situations with his faithful companion, Snowy, by his side.
What stands out in this early work is the essence of Tintin's character—his courage, wit, and unwavering sense of justice. Though presented in a more rudimentary form, these elements are the building blocks of the complex narratives and richly drawn worlds that would later define the Tintin series. The comic's engagement with the political landscape of its time adds a layer of depth, making it an entertaining read and a commentary on the era's geopolitical tensions.
While the black and white drawings may seem stark compared to the vibrant colors of later adventures, they possess a charm that draws the reader into the story, encouraging a deeper appreciation for Hergé's artistic evolution. "Tintin in the Land of the Soviets" is more than just a comic; it's a collector's item and a must-read for anyone interested in the origins of this beloved character.
Reading "Tintin in the Land of the Soviets" offers a unique joy akin to watching a beloved series from its pilot episode—you witness the raw, unpolished beginnings and the promise of what's to come. It's a fun, international adventure that lays the groundwork for Tintin's future escapades, making it an essential read for fans and newcomers alike.
Spring Stirrings: From Snowstorms to Speedway Sponsors
This week has been a whirlwind of activity, both at the radio station and at home. There have been exciting developments and the challenges of late-season weather.
We've been preparing for the upcoming Bear Ridge Races this summer at the station. Securing sponsors is always a bit of a dance—part negotiation, part relationship building. It's a process that requires patience and persistence, but when it all comes together, it's gratifying. The excitement of live racing, coupled with the support of local businesses, really brings the community together in a way that's hard to beat.
In addition to the races, we're exploring the idea of starting a gift certificate program with the radio station. The concept is to create a platform where listeners can purchase gift certificates from local businesses, promoting local shopping and supporting the economy in our backyard. It's an exciting venture with much potential to strengthen the ties between the station and the community we serve.
On a more personal note, we've been dealing with what I hope is the last big snowstorm of the season. Spanning close to three days, it's made getting around more than a little treacherous. There's something about a late-season snowfall that feels a bit more daunting, perhaps because we're all so ready for spring. Yet, there's also a beauty to it—the quiet of the snow-covered landscape, the way life slows down a bit, even if just for a few days.
Navigating the snowy roads, coordinating with potential sponsors, and brainstorming new ways to engage with our listeners have made for a busy week. But it's also been a week full of potential and promise. As we look forward to the races and warmer days ahead, I'm reminded of the resilience and adaptability that are so characteristic of our community. Here's to the adventures and opportunities that lie ahead: snow or sunshine.
Cheesecake for breakfast!
I am growing my Patreon and offering an excellent way for my independent creative community to sustained advertise their work!
The website of your choice will be featured in the show notes of all of our podcasts for as long as you are a member of the Storycomic Patreon. The Founders Club offer is only for the first 15 subscribers. This is at any Patreon Subscription level.
Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons,
Higgens802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Andrew Gronosky of Shewstone Publishing, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at:
https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/
https://www.vonallan.com/
https://higgins802.com/
https://shewstone.com/
Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!