Turning Life Into Comics | Writing, Art, and the Indie Grind

In this episode of Talking Comics, AJ sits down with indie comic creator Brayden Viloria, the mind behind Haven and Sketch Night. Brayden shares how personal loss led him back to comics, how he built a shared comic universe, and what it really takes to write, fund, and publish indie comics today.We dive into comic writing styles, finding artists, pitching publishers, Kickstarter lessons, and the creative self-doubt every creator faces. Whether you’re an aspiring comic creator or just love indie comics, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and inspiration.👉 Plus: writing process breakdowns, shared universes, disability representation in comics, and why just starting matters.Follow Brayden and Stephanie on their adventure! https://linktr.ee/rookcityuniverseSponsors:• AMPED Comics – Use code TCP10 for 10% off https://ampedcomics.com/discount/TCP10• Allegra Printing – Printing The Chronicles of Panel Pete 👉🖨 For your comic book printing needs please visit Allegra Travers City (Tell them AJ Sent You) https://www.allegramarketingprint.com...Printing-Comic Books-Fliers-Prints-Business Cards-Rack Cards-Promotional Items-Etc🗨 Get your FREE preview of The Chronicles of Panel Pete https://talkincomicspodcast.substack.com/👉 Hit the Kickstarter “Remind Me” button to follow the project launch (coming early 2026). https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/641500179/the-chronicles-of-panel-peteHit like, subscribe, and check out all things Panel Pete below!https://linktr.ee/Talkin_Comics_PodcastChapters00:00 Introduction to Comic Creation16:06 The Journey of Writing Comics31:31 Artistic Collaboration and Process33:18 The Journey of Writing a Comic35:19 Overcoming Self-Doubt as a Writer40:59 Character Development and Representation46:04 The Experience of Publishing a Comic46:31 Marketing and Publishing Strategies50:20 The Creative Journey Begins52:34 Exploring Artistic Styles and Collaboration54:50 Pitching and Publishing in Comics58:18 The Hunger for Growth and Experience01:01:50 Support Systems in Creative Endeavors01:08:01 Inspiration for Aspiring Creators01:12:43 The Importance of Following Your Dreams01:13:37 Upcoming Projects and Future Aspirations01:21:02 The Launch of Rook City Universe01:23:28 Expanding the Universe: Hiring Writers01:28:54 Creative Collaboration and Parameters01:32:20 Marketing and Kickstarter Insights01:40:32 Fun Questions and Personal Favorites#IndieComics#TalkingComics#ComicPodcast#ComicCreators#MakeComics#HavenComic#SketchNight#IndieCreators#ComicBookCommunity