Comic Crusaders Podcast

WEPA! On this episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast, Al Mega welcomes back indie comics creator Jorge Medina to talk about his latest Kickstarter campaign, The Shameless Plug is back! This full-color graphic novel follows Joaquin, a young boy trying to fit into a new world, and Pana, The Shameless Plug, the wildly imaginative hero who helps him find courage, confidence, and the power to be himself. Al and Jorge dive into the creative journey behind the project, the evolution from first chapter to full graphic novel, the emotional heart behind the comedy, the madness of crowdfunding, and why indie comics continue to be one of the most exciting spaces in storytelling today. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vndVySL_Rec Back the Kickstarter and support indie comics! https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/wonder-duck/the-shameless-plug-is-back Website: www.getyourmedz.com Don't forget to like, comment, subscribe, and share! The Crusade Never Ends! Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host: Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega #KickstarterComics #ComicCrusaders #IndieComics

Comic fans, conspiracy lovers, sci-fi comedy junkies, and everyone who ever looked at Area 51 and said, "Yeah, something weird is going on over there," this one is for you. Today on the Comic Crusaders Podcast, Al Mega welcomes back writer Ernie Altbacker and illustrator Josh White to talk all about their newest Kickstarter campaign, AREA 51 STUDIOS Issue #3. The campaign is currently live, already funded, and still has time left for fans to jump in, back the project, and help push this cosmic comedy adventure even higher. AREA 51 STUDIOS takes one of the most famous conspiracy locations in pop culture and flips it into something hilariously fresh. In this universe, Area 51 is not just a secret government base hiding aliens. It is a working studio where aliens come to produce low-budget galactic entertainment. Reality shows, movies, genre chaos, and cosmic nonsense collide as alien producer Zephril Boon tries to turn humanity into must-see interstellar content. Issue #3 raises the stakes as ZB's show, "The Human Race," becomes a galactic sensation. That sounds like good news until you remember this is AREA 51 STUDIOS, where success usually comes wrapped in disaster, ego, satire, and one giant "wait, did they just put Earth in danger for ratings?" moment. Ernie Altbacker brings a deep background in animation, storytelling, and genre entertainment, while Josh White continues to expand the visual universe with more alien worlds, characters, environments, and comedic energy. Issue #3 is bigger than the previous chapters, giving the team more room to explore the characters, sharpen the comedy, and push the sci-fi madness further into the galaxy. This is the kind of indie comic project crowdfunding was built for: bold concept, passionate creators, direct fan support, and a story that feels like it escaped from a classified file and landed right on the comic rack. Tune in as Al Mega talks with Ernie and Josh about the journey behind AREA 51 STUDIOS, the growth of the series, the madness of crowdfunding, the fun of building a universe from scratch, and why fans should back Issue #3 before the campaign beams back up into the unknown. Support the Kickstarter, share the campaign, and help keep this alien studio rolling. The truth is out there but the comics are on Kickstarter. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fy3EGtdhRy0 Back AREA 51 STUDIOS Issue #3 on Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ernie-altbacker/area-51-studios-issue-3 Secret Podcast Prints: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ernie-altbacker/area-51-studios-issue-3?secret_reward_token=afd27ddc Secret Podcast Digital: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/ernie-altbacker/area-51-studios-issue-3?secret_reward_token=cfbfd694 Follow Ernie on: FaceBook: @ernie.altbacker X/Instagram/Linkedin @ErnieAltbacker Follow Josh on: Instagram: @ joshwhiteillustration Website: https://jwillustration.com Visit the Website at Area51comic.com Follow Comic Crusaders for more indie comics, creator interviews, reviews, and pop culture coverage. 💥 Don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit that bell to never miss the hype! Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host: Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega #Area51Studios #KickstarterComics #ComicCrusaders #IndieComics #ErnieAltbacker #JoshWhite #SciFiComics #CrowdfundingComics #ComicBookPodcast #WEPA

WEPA! Comic Crusaders is going full indie publishing powerhouse with this one as Al Mega welcomes Bragi Schut and Lewis Fenton, the founders of Mythos Comics, an independent publisher bringing cinematic genre storytelling to the comic book world. Mythos Comics is known for Samaritan, the graphic novel that inspired the Sylvester Stallone film on Prime Video, but this creative crew is not a one-title wonder. Their growing catalog dives deep into horror, noir, sci-fi, supernatural fantasy, and historical adventure with titles like Vamp, Sulfur, Deep Blue, Magick, and The Brave. In this episode, Al talks with Bragi and Lewis about their individual creative journeys, how Mythos Comics came together, what it takes to build an independent publishing company, and how comics continue to be one of the strongest launchpads for big ideas in film, television, and beyond. From vampire-run casinos to machines searching for the soul, from Hell-born secrets to ancient languages that rewrite reality, Mythos Comics is building a universe full of danger, imagination, and serious storytelling fire. This is one for indie creators, comic fans, genre junkies, and anyone who believes the next big thing in entertainment might already be sitting in a comic book longbox. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymTRzOP4um8 Support Mythos Comics and check out their catalog. Subscribe to Comic Crusaders for more creator interviews, comic book culture, indie spotlights, and pop culture conversations. https://www.mythoscomics.com https://www.facebook.com/MythosComics/ Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: /comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at: : https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912 #ComicCrusaders #MythosComics #Samaritan #IndieComics #ComicBooks #BragiSchut #LewisFenton #SylvesterStallone #GraphicNovels #CreatorOwnedComics

WEPA, Crusaders! The Comic Crusaders Podcast is firing up the cosmic engines for a new episode packed with heart, humor, and enough alien drama to make Earth ask, "Why is it always us?" Al Mega welcomes back Eisner-nominated creator/writer Jeremy Whitley and welcomes artist/illustrator Jamie Noguchi to discuss their newest graphic novel adventure, School for Extraterrestrial Girls Vol. 3: Girls in Space from Papercutz. This latest volume sends Tara, Misako, Summer, Kat, and their friends into the kind of summer vacation nobody puts on a brochure. The beach sounds nice, but the incoming Lacertillian Empire? Not exactly sunscreen-and-sandcastle vibes. With battlecruisers heading toward Earth and only days to figure out why, the girls are thrown into a mission that blends galactic stakes with the emotional core that has made this series connect with readers. Jeremy and Jamie dig into the evolution of the series, the balance between sci-fi action and personal identity, and what it means to create stories where young readers feel seen, empowered, and entertained. Jeremy also reflects on his creative journey since his last Comic Crusaders appearance, while Jamie breaks down how he brings the characters, alien worlds, and big emotional moments to life on the page. If you love graphic novels with heart, humor, friendship, self-discovery, and cosmic danger served with style, this is an episode you do not want to miss. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unpr89Feibg Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: /comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at: : https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912

On this episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast, Al Mega welcomes L.K. Indigo, a multi-hyphenate creator whose work spans speculative fiction, comics, poetry, and music. Known for her love of fairytales, myths, dark tales, and the bizarre, L.K. brings that exact energy into Fangs & Foul Play, a light-horror comic from Headless Gnomes that introduces readers to Richard Bluth and one dangerously unforgettable vampiric cat named Fang. In this conversation, we dig into L.K.'s creative journey, how horror and humor can work together without losing their bite, what makes Fang such a delicious little menace, and how her voice as a poet and singer influences the rhythm and feel of her comic storytelling. We also talk about collaboration, worldbuilding, weirdness, and why creators should lean harder into the stories only they can tell. If you're into indie comics, gothic flavor, dark humor, strange fiction, and creators who are building their own lane with passion and personality, this is an episode you do not want to miss. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i8C38d4DwiI Follow on Social at: @elleindigo.singer | @headlessgnomes Visit the wesibtes at https://headlessgnomes.com & https://elleindigo.com Like, subscribe, share, and support indie creators! Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: /comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at: : https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912 #LKIndigo #FangsAndFoulPlay #HeadlessGnomes #ComicCrusaders #HorrorComics #IndieComics #VampireCat #SpeculativeFiction

WEPAAA! Gabe Cheng is back on the Comic Crusaders Podcast, and this time the chaos has leveled up like somebody fed a comic book after midnight and gave it espresso. After joining Al Mega on episode #582 to talk about THIS SEEMS NORMAL #1, Gabe returns to discuss his latest Kickstarter, THIS SEEMS NORMAL #1-2: The Adventure Begins Continues! This new chapter keeps the wild family comedy rolling while expanding the adventure with superpowers, super siblings, big laughs, heart, and the kind of wonderfully strange ingredients only indie comics can deliver. Written by Gabe Cheng with art by Elisa Meneghel, THIS SEEMS NORMAL is built for readers who love animated comedy energy, heartfelt character chaos, and stories where the absurd somehow makes perfect emotional sense. This is indie comics doing what indie comics does best — taking a big swing, having fun, and inviting readers into a world that refuses to be boring. In this episode, Al Mega talks with Gabe about his journey since his last Comic Crusaders appearance, the evolution from issue #1 to issue #2, writing comedy for comics, collaborating with Elisa, running a Kickstarter campaign, and why backers should jump aboard this beautifully abnormal adventure. Support the Kickstarter, share the campaign, and help keep indie comics loud, weird, funny, heartfelt, and unstoppable. The Crusade Never Ends! YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yGLFUF2lNTk Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Hosted by Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: /comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Website: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at: : https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912

WEPAAAA! On this episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast, Al Mega chats with independent artist, author, musician, and worldbuilder Mike Salsbury, creator of Boundless / Boundless Adventure a science and folklore-inspired fantasy webcomic filled with heart, humor, adventure, and one unforgettable fox named Rudy. Mike is building Boundless as more than just a comic. He writes the story, creates the artwork, develops the characters, and even produces original music for the project himself. This conversation dives into the creative process behind the series, the importance of story before art, all-ages storytelling, worldbuilding, audience connection, indie creator survival, and the dream of growing Boundless into something even bigger. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UnduTzT_nzg Support independent comics. Support original stories. Support creators building worlds with passion, grit, and imagination. Subscribe to Comic Crusaders World for more interviews with comic creators, artists, writers, musicians, filmmakers, and pop culture visionaries. The Crusade Never Ends! YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvwoMr54MPcxLo60wVI63xg/videos Instagram: @mike__salsbury Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, SUBSCRIBE, and hit that bell so you never miss another creator-powered episode from Comic Crusaders!

WEPA! On this episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast, Al Mega welcomes legendary Marvel color artist and creator Jason Keith to talk about his funded Kickstarter project, The Enchanted Circus of Wonder #1-2: The Quest for Knowledge! This creator-owned adventure takes readers into a magical steampunk circus filled with myth, mystery, prophecy, pirates, performers, danger, and one seriously wild pirate king with a mighty mech suit. Yeah, this circus came prepared! Jason Keith has brought color and energy to some of Marvel's biggest comic book worlds, and now he is stepping into the spotlight with his own world of spectacle and imagination. In this conversation, Al Mega talks with Jason about his creative journey, coloring for Marvel, building an original universe, the Kickstarter experience, visual storytelling, all-ages adventure, and the future of The Enchanted Circus of Wonder. Step into the spectacle and support creator-owned comics! The circus is open. The magic is real. The Crusade continues. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3jT-BGfG_YY Issue #2 Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jasonkeith/the-enchanted-circus-of-wonder-2-the-quest-for-knowledge Issue #3 Prelaunch Page: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jasonkeith/the-enchanted-circus-of-wonder-1-3-secrets-from-the-past Salvaged Prelaunch Page: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jasonkeith/salvaged-rise-of-a-pirate-king-1-6-dark-steampunk-comic Follow Jason on Instagram at @JasonRayKeith Visit Jason's website at: https://mythandmetalpress.myshopify.com/ Follow CL on Instagram @CLZeno Visit his website at: Clzeno.com Previous Kickstarter Campaign: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jasonkeith/the-enchanted-circus-of-wonder-2-the-quest-for-knowledge Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT, SUBSCRIBE, and hit that bell so you never miss another creator-powered episode from Comic Crusaders! #ComicCrusaders #JasonKeith #CLZeno #TheEnchantedCircusOfWonder #KickstarterComics #IndieComics #ComicBooks #ComicsPodcast #SteampunkComics #FantasyComics Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at: : https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912

WEPA! Comic Crusaders is stepping onto the bridge, but don't worry we brought backup, snacks, and enough indie comic energy to scare every troll back into customer service training. On this episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast, Al Mega welcomes comic creator Jonathan Colton, the creator behind Paul Bunyan vs. Dracula, Captain Arizona, and the new fantasy comic campaign Three Brothers Gruff – Troll-Hunters for Hire. Colton's latest project takes the classic Three Billy Goats Gruff fairy tale and cranks the dial from bedtime story to full-blown fantasy adventure, starring three satyr brothers who work as legendary troll hunters. Their mission? Rescue Princess Brynhild from the monstrous troll Ulif and his mountain fortress. Simple job, right? Of course not. In comics, "simple job" usually means somebody is lying, somebody is bleeding, and somebody forgot to read the fine print. What makes this project pop is the mix of classic folklore, brotherhood, sharp humor, and brutal fantasy action. The campaign description positions the book as a 24-page comic packed with loyalty, betrayal, troll-slaying battles, and that big adventure flavor that feels like Narnia meets Conan with a dose of wild indie comic personality. Jonathan Colton brings more than imagination to the table. His real-life path includes growing up across multiple countries as part of an Air Force family, studying at Academy of Art University, working as a freelance illustrator, serving as a California Corrections Officer, working as a police forensic/composite artist, and teaching art. That is the kind of résumé that gives a creator a serious toolbox: observation, discipline, tension, character, movement, and a deep understanding of how faces, choices, and consequences tell stories. During the interview, Al and Jonathan dive into his creative journey, the influence of folklore and martial arts on his storytelling, the challenge of reimagining a classic fairy tale, and what it takes to bring an indie comic campaign to life through Fund My Comic. They also explore how Three Brothers Gruff – Troll-Hunters for Hire expands the Colton Comics universe and what readers can expect from this wild fantasy adventure. If you love indie comics, fantasy stories, creator-owned worlds, monster fights, mythic adventure, and books that take familiar tales and give them a fresh punch to the jaw, this is an episode you do not want to miss. Support Jonathan Colton's Three Brothers Gruff - Troll-Hunters for Hire campaign on Fund My Comic, share the episode, and help independent comics keep charging forward. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGdssyCsM10 Because around here, the bridge belongs to the storytellers. The Crusade NEVER Ends! Support the campaign at: www.fundmycomic.com/campaign/889/3brosgruff Follow Jon on X: https://x.com/JonathanJColton Visit Jonathan's Website at: www.coltoncomics.com Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

WEPA! The Comic Crusaders Podcast is bringing the heart, the nostalgia, and the big-screen inspiration as Al Mega sits down with producer Kim Dawson for a powerful conversation about storytelling, legacy, and the new coming-of-age film Better Together. For pop-culture fans, Kim Dawson's name carries serious weight. He was part of the producing team behind the original live-action Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles films, the 1990s big-screen phenomenon that helped turn four sewer-dwelling heroes into movie icons. From practical effects and franchise instincts to the kind of character-first storytelling that sticks with audiences for decades, Dawson has been connected to films that shaped childhoods and packed theaters. Now, Dawson is helping bring audiences a very different kind of adventure with Better Together, a film arriving in select theaters nationwide on May 15, 2026. The story follows Jesse and his friends as they set out on a quest tied to his father, the mysterious Zion Point, and a legendary meteor shower. But beneath the adventure is something deeper: friendship, grief, identity, hope, and the internal battles many young people are facing today. Written by Sean Thiessen and directed by Emmy Award-winner Kyle William Roberts, Better Together explores teen struggles through a story built around connection and courage. The film stars Gattlin Griffith, Bart Johnson, Ricardo Hurtado, Giselle Torres, LaRonn Marzett, Katie Burgess, and Juan Graterol. This episode dives into Kim Dawson's creative journey, what it takes to believe in a project before the world understands it, and how a producer moves from pop-culture legacy projects to films designed to spark meaningful conversations. Al and Kim also explore why stories about mental health, friendship, and family connection matter now more than ever. So grab your headphones, gather the crew, and join the Crusade for a conversation that reminds us all of one major truth: we are not built to fight every battle alone. Better Together opens in select theaters nationwide on May 15, 2026. Visit the website: https://bettertogethermovie.com/ The Crusade Never Ends! YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QE6PRlIiM20 Don't forget to like, subscribe, comment, and share! The Crusade NEVER Ends! Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

WEPAAAA! Comic Crusaders is opening the door to one of the wildest haunted houses in comics as Al Mega welcomes writer, artist, designer, and publisher Dan Goldman to the show to discuss Red Light Properties: Unfinished Business, a massive 340-page, full-color oversized hardcover collecting the first season of his cult-favorite tropical horror series. Presented by Kinjin Storylab, Red Light Properties is not your average ghost story. This is a sun-bleached, psychedelic, emotionally charged ride through Miami Beach where haunted homes, real estate pressure, family stress, capitalism, and supernatural shamanism all collide in one beautifully bizarre package. The story follows Jude Tobin, a psychic who sees ghosts, and his wife Cecilia, a realtor who sees an opportunity. Together, they run Red Light Properties, a Miami Beach agency that exorcises haunted homes and sells them at discounted prices to people priced out of the housing market. Sounds like a dream, right? Not exactly. Because while Jude is powerful in the spirit world, Cecilia is stuck carrying the brutal weight of the business, their marriage, and their family's survival. Dan Goldman's return to this universe feels personal, ambitious, and creatively fearless. With over 100 pages of previously unpublished work, 50 new pages of epistolary worldbuilding, and a design-forward hardcover presentation, Unfinished Business is more than a collection. It is a full immersive experience that pulls readers into the strange, sweaty, haunted soul of Miami. In this episode, Al and Dan dig into the origins of the series, the emotional power behind Jude and Cecilia's relationship, the weird beauty of tropical horror, the pressure of creator-owned publishing, the launch of Kinjin Storylab, and what fans can expect as Season Two begins. If you love horror comics with heart, humor, satire, and visuals that feel like they were cooked under the Florida sun with a ghost whispering in the background, this is an episode you do not want to miss. The Crusade NEVER Ends! Grab the book: https://shop.kinjin.co/ Follow Red Light Properties on Facebook at @RedLightProperties Follow Dan on Instagram at @DanGoldman Don't forget to like, subscribe, comment, and share! The Crusade NEVER Ends! Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

WEPA! The Comic Crusaders Podcast is taking flight with a truly magical episode as Al Mega welcomes acclaimed storyteller and animation powerhouse Nora Twomey to discuss My Father's Dragon, the upcoming Titan Comics graphic novel adaptation inspired by the Netflix film from Cartoon Saloon. This is one of those conversations that feels like opening a storybook and having the pages glow back at you. My Father's Dragon follows Elmer, a young boy struggling after a move to the city with his mother, who runs away in search of Wild Island and a young dragon waiting to be rescued. Along the way, the story opens the door to adventure, fear, friendship, family, and the kind of emotional courage that hits kids and adults right in the heart. Nora Twomey's work with Cartoon Saloon has helped shape some of the most beloved and visually distinct animated storytelling of the modern era. From The Secret of Kells to Song of the Sea, The Breadwinner, and beyond, Cartoon Saloon has built a reputation for animation that feels handcrafted, emotionally honest, and deeply rooted in imagination. Nora's creative voice brings a rare balance of wonder and weight, making stories that never talk down to young audiences and never forget the adults watching alongside them. In this episode, Al and Nora explore the journey of My Father's Dragon, the emotional layers behind Elmer and Boris, the visual magic of Wild Island, and the unique experience of seeing an animated story live again as a graphic novel. They also dive into adaptation, artistic identity, the power of children's stories, and why imagination remains one of the strongest tools we have when life gets complicated. The Titan Comics release gives fans a new way to experience this heartfelt adventure, and for readers discovering it for the first time, it may just become the kind of story that stays with them long after the final page. So grab your backpack, check your dragon snacks, and join the Crusade as we head toward Wild Island with Nora Twomey and My Father's Dragon. The Crusade NEVER Ends! Pre-Order NOW: https://amzn.to/4uGMrrb Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

WEPA! Comic Crusaders family, this is one of those episodes where the passion jumps right out of the screen, grabs a pencil, sharpens it dramatically, and says, "Let's make art the hard way because the hard way has soul." Al Mega welcomes back animator, filmmaker, and traditional 2D animation champion Tina Nawrocki to talk about her short film Syrenka: Legend of the Warsaw Mermaid, an indie hand-drawn animated project rooted in Polish folklore, feminist storytelling, and the belief that human-made art still matters in a world moving faster than everybody's attention span after two cups of coffee. Tina is known for her work in animation, including her connection to the beloved hand-drawn world of Cuphead, but Syrenka is a deeply personal creative mission. This short film brings the legendary Mermaid of Warsaw to life through traditional frame-by-frame animation, with a story that explores resilience, gendered power, myth, identity, and the beauty of craftsmanship. In this episode, Tina and Al dive into why she is making an indie hand-drawn film, how far the project has come, the team helping bring this vision to life, and the importance of the new and final crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter. This is not just about finishing a film. This is about supporting artists, funding passion projects responsibly, and reminding audiences that every frame of traditional animation carries the fingerprint of the person who made it. The conversation also highlights the value of community in crowdfunding. For creators with dream projects sitting in sketchbooks, hard drives, or folders labeled "someday," Tina's journey is a reminder that funding art is possible, building a team is possible, and pushing forward is possible — even when the mountain looks like it came with extra boss levels. For fans of animation, indie film, folklore, creator-owned projects, and human-made art, this episode is a must-watch. Syrenka: Legend of the Warsaw Mermaid is the kind of project that deserves attention because it carries beauty, purpose, and that rare creative fire you can't fake. Watch the full interview, support the Kickstarter, share the campaign, and help bring this mermaid-powered vision across the finish line. The crusade never ends and this time, it swims with a sword and shield. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbPt50x_Kg0 Support the campaign: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/tinanawrocki/syrenka-legend-of-the-warsaw-mermaid-animated-short-film Please like, comment, subscribe, and share this episode. Most importantly, check out the Kickstarter and help support indie hand-drawn animation! Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega #TinaNawrocki #Syrenka #HandDrawnAnimation #Kickstarter #ComicCrusaders #IndieAnimation #WarsawMermaid #SupportIndieArtists

WEPA! On this episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast, Al Mega chats with Jeff Mullen, CEO and Founder of The Authority, a real-time, vertically integrated collectibles marketplace designed to help collectors vault, purchase, encapsulate, authenticate, grade, sell, and fulfill collectibles faster and with more confidence. Jeff brings a unique background in engineering, law, patents, business, and technology to the collectibles world, and The Authority is aiming to solve some of the biggest headaches in the hobby: grading uncertainty, fraud, marketplace friction, slow turnaround times, and the lack of clear standards. We talk about the future of collecting, the Universal Public Grading Standard, authenticated vaulted collectibles, comics, trading cards, TCGs, figurines, marketplace trust, and why transparency could be a game-changer for collectors of every level. If you collect comics, cards, toys, TCGs, memorabilia, or pop culture treasures, this is an episode you do NOT want to miss! YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GbnRXD2Qifo Drop a comment: What collectible would YOU vault first? Subscribe for more interviews with creators, innovators, collectors, publishers, artists, writers, filmmakers, and pop culture game-changers. https://www.theauthority.com/ https://www.collectforver.com Instagram/Facebook/LinkedIn: authoritycollect X: authcollect Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

WEPA! The Comic Crusaders Podcast is back with another creator-focused conversation, and this one brings history, crime, comics, family legacy, and indie publishing power straight to the table. Al Mega welcomes author and creator C.E. Massari to the show to discuss his upcoming graphic novel THE MAFIA VS. THE KLAN, a bold new project set to launch on Kickstarter in September 2026 as a premier title in the relaunch of Source Point Press, before moving toward worldwide release through SPP's distribution channels. Massari, known for work connected to THE SIX SWORDS and KAYFABE VOL. 3, brings a storyteller's eye and a creator-owned spirit to a project that immediately demands attention. With a title like THE MAFIA VS. THE KLAN, you already know this is not a quiet little stroll through the funny book aisle. This is a graphic novel built around conflict, history, identity, hate, survival, and the type of personal storytelling that gives comics their emotional punch. In this episode, Al and C.E. dig into the creative journey behind the book, how the project evolved, the responsibility of telling stories connected to real-world hate and historical trauma, and what it means to transform powerful personal and cultural material into sequential art. The conversation also explores the indie comics grind, the Kickstarter process, and the excitement surrounding Source Point Press' renewed focus on creator-owned graphic novels. What makes this episode special is the balance between big comic book energy and real storytelling weight. Yes, there is crime drama. Yes, there is pulp attitude. Yes, there is that cinematic "you better keep reading" hook. But underneath it all is a creator working to tell a story with purpose, edge, and respect for the history behind it. Al also talks with Massari about the lessons learned from previous projects, the creative team behind the graphic novel, and what fans can expect when the Kickstarter campaign launches. For readers who love indie comics, historical fiction, crime stories, creator-owned graphic novels, and books that bring something different to the shelf, THE MAFIA VS. THE KLAN is absolutely one to keep on the radar. This is the kind of conversation Comic Crusaders lives for: creators building something from the ground up, stories that take risks, and comics that remind the world the medium can entertain, challenge, inspire, and still hit like a freight train with great page layouts. Make sure to follow C.E. Massari, keep an eye out for THE MAFIA VS. THE KLAN on Kickstarter in September 2026, and support the creators pushing comics forward one bold idea at a time. The Crusade never ends and this one is coming with history, heat, and a whole lot of WEPA. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpwZFKNeIBM Support the creator. Follow the campaign. Share the episode. The Crusade never ends! THE MAFIA VS. THE KLAN project will launch on Kickstarter in September 2026! https://cemassari.substack.com/ Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega #ComicCrusaders #CEMassari #TheMafiaVsTheKlan #SourcePointPress #KickstarterComics #IndieComics #GraphicNovel #ComicBooks #CreatorOwnedComics #AlMega

WEPA!!! Some stories never die… they just wait in the shadows for the perfect creator to resurrect them. And this Halloween season, creator Norm Konyu is opening the crypt and inviting readers into the beautifully twisted world of Edgar Allan Poe with the upcoming Edgar Allan Poe: A Tale of Mystery and Intervention from Titan Comics, arriving October 6, 2026. This isn't your dusty classroom version of Poe. Norm Konyu delivers a darkly playful graphic novel experience where humor, dread, melancholy, and beauty dance together like ghosts at a masquerade ball. The project serves as both a celebration of Poe's legendary literary legacy and a modern exploration of why strange stories continue haunting generation after generation. Even better, the graphic novel reportedly includes a reflective postscript where Konyu breaks down literary references and his personal connection to Poe's work. Norm Konyu has once again proven he's one of the most unique creative voices in comics today, blending emotional storytelling with visually atmospheric worlds that stay with readers long after the final page. Comic Crusaders readers looking for something spooky, smart, emotional, and visually unforgettable should absolutely keep this one on their radar. October can't come fast enough. 💥 THE CRUSADE NEVER ENDS! 💥 YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aM3HBMuSMh0 Follow Norm on Instagram at @NormKonyu 🔔 Subscribe for more comic creator interviews! Edgar Allan Poe: A Tale of Mystery and Intervention 📅 Release Date: October 6, 2026 Visit Titan Comics at https://titan-comics.com/ Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

 IF DESTRUCTION BE OUR LOT, Robot Abe Lincoln, and the End of Humanity Wepaaaa, Crusaders! Today on the Comic Crusaders Podcast, Al Mega welcomes comic book writer and podcaster Matthew Rosenberg for a conversation about one of the strangest, funniest, and most emotionally charged new Image Comics books on the horizon: IF DESTRUCTION BE OUR LOT… Created with Mark Elijah Rosenberg, Andy MacDonald, Francesco Segala, and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou, the series introduces readers to a world where humanity has vanished, but the robots that once served us continue their daily routines. The twist? One animatronic Abraham Lincoln believes there is more to existence than maintenance, repetition, and a society of machines pretending everything is fine. In this episode, Matthew dives into the origins of the idea, the emotional heart behind Abe's journey, collaborating with his brother Mark, and why this bizarre post-human world is really about purpose, loneliness, friendship, and hope. Al and Matthew also discuss creator-owned storytelling, the power of Image Comics, and how a robot Lincoln can somehow make you laugh one minute and question your entire existence the next. Comic fans, sci-fi lovers, and anyone who has ever wondered if their smart fridge is judging them should absolutely check this one out. IF DESTRUCTION BE OUR LOT #1 is a big, bold, weird, heartfelt creator-owned launch that deserves a spot on your pull list. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kl-pDvG53wA Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

WEPAAAA! The Comic Crusaders Podcast brings back the multi-talented Adam Wallenta to break down his latest release, Punk Taco Vol. 2, a high-energy continuation of his cosmic comic universe. At its core, Punk Taco is unlike anything else: a sentient alien taco who rocks out across the galaxy, fighting evil and spreading positive vibes through music. In this episode, Adam dives into how his journey has evolved as a creator with over 30 years in comics, sharing insights into storytelling, growth, and the challenges of indie publishing. Volume 2 raises the stakes with bigger adventures, deeper character moments, and even more of that signature punk energy fans love. It's not just a comic—it's a movement of creativity, individuality, and passion. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, this episode is packed with inspiration, laughs, and real talk about what it takes to keep creating in today's comic landscape. 👉 Read it. Support it. Live it. The Crusade NEVER Ends! YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bOKfCyJ89Bo Follow Punk Taco on Facebook/Instagram at @therealpunktaco Follow Adam on Bluesky: adamwallenta.bsky.social Visit Papercutz today for Vol. 1: https://papercutz.com/product/punk-taco-adventures-vol-1 Pre-OrderPunk Taco Adventures Vol. 2: Big Problems Now! Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

Comic Crusaders steps into a world of Martian terror and human resilience with Matthew Hardy and Rob Jones, the creative minds behind War of the Worlds: Thunder Child. Expanding the universe of H.G. Wells' classic, this gripping new series from Titan Comics brings readers aboard the HMS Thunder Child as it faces impossible odds in a desperate stand against alien invaders. Hardy and Jones discuss their creative journey, their collaboration process, and the challenge of telling a parallel story to one of the most iconic sci-fi novels ever written. With themes of sacrifice, courage, and humanity under pressure, Thunder Child offers both spectacle and emotional depth. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfL5HbpfrTc 📅 In Shops: June 2, 2026 Follow Matt on Facebook at @Paul.Hardy.184 Follow Rob on Instagram at @RobJonesWrites Visit Titan Comics website : https://titan-comics.com/ Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at: : https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912

WEPAAAAA!!! 🚨 If you're out here grinding but STILL feel invisible… this one's gonna hit different. Christine Blosdale doesn't just talk branding she BUILDS authority. With 25+ years in media and a mission to help people get seen, heard, trusted, and paid, she's flipping the game on what it means to stand out. This episode dives deep into why most personal brands crash and burn and spoiler alert it ain't the algorithm. It's strategy. Christine breaks down her Authority Framework and shows how creators can stop playing small and start positioning themselves as the go-to expert. From podcast guesting hacks to building trust FAST, this convo is packed with real moves you can apply TODAY. Bottom line? Visibility = opportunity. Authority = income. And if you're not building both… what are you doing? ðŸ'€ Link to book a FREE Expert Authority Clarity Call http://www.ChatWithChristineB.com Link to the new book The Expert Authority Code http://ExpertAuthorityCode.com/ The Social Media and Branding Survival Guide: Digital Marketing So Irresistible, Even Your Ex Will Want To Follow You: https://amzn.to/4t4NhMY Assess your influence, see where you rank and how to improve your positioning. It's FUN and FREE. https://forms.fillout.com/t/g77G9QD1yjus Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at: : https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912

WEPAAAAA! 🚀ðŸ"¥ The Comic Crusaders Podcast is back and this episode is straight-up ELECTRIC as Al Mega sits down with Eisner-nominated creator Campbell Whyte to break down his latest graphic novel, Luna Express! This ain't your average comic conversation this is a full-on creative explosion. Campbell dives into the origins of Luna Express, a story that's been living in his head since he was a kid, and how it evolved into a visually wild, emotionally real, and unapologetically bold graphic novel. From magical girl chaos to real-world struggles, this episode hits on identity, purpose, and that "what am I doing with my life?" energy that so many readers connect with. Expect laughs, deep insights, and behind-the-scenes gems about building a story that blends humor, heart, and social commentary. Whether you're a comic fan, creator, or just someone trying to figure it all out this episode is for YOU. ðŸ'‰ Watch the full episode now and don't forget… The Crusade NEVER Ends! Follow Campbell on Social at: @campbellwhyte Visit the websites at: www.campbellwhyte.com www.milk-tooth.com www.pcaf.org.au Get your copy of Luna Express NOW Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at: : https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912

On this episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast, Al Mega sits down with writer Aaron Cohen and return guest Alex Schumacher to talk about Schticks & Stones Holiday Special, a currently live Kickstarter that has already hit its funding goal and keeps building momentum. Spun out of their earlier The Cloak Room collaboration "Crime & Passover," the new comic is a 28-page holiday mystery special built around Purim, Passover, and Hanukkah, with humor, heart, and one unforgettable family at the center of it all. Aaron and Alex break down their creative chemistry, the challenge of making something deeply personal and widely relatable, and why this project feels like the start of something much bigger. Support the Kickstarter at https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/… Follow Aaron on X at @TheACohen Visit Aaron's Website at www.schticksnstones.com Follow Alex on X at @@AJSchumacherArt Visit Alex's website at https://alexschumacherart.com Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at: : https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912

On this episode of Comic Crusaders, Al Mega welcomes Ted Brandt and Ro Stein, the duo behind Brandt&Stein, to talk about their upcoming Titan Comics graphic novel Worst Man. Known for work across major comics publishers and for the acclaimed Crowded, the team breaks down their creative journey, how they function as a true collaborative unit, and how Worst Man became a wild blend of romance, farce, crime-story energy, and emotional messiness. With Radcliffe Raleigh racing against the clock to sabotage a wedding before catching feelings for the best man, this book already sounds like a delicious disaster in the best possible way.   Pre-Order your copy today:https://amzn.to/3QAri2S This title will be released on August 25, 2026. Follow Brandt & Stein on Instagram/BlueSky: @brandtandstein Visit their website at https://www.brandtandstein.com/ Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at: : https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912

The Comic Crusaders Podcast is swinging into the Spider-Verse with Roseanne A. Brown to talk about Ghost-Spider: Broken Chords, a graphic novel that gives Gwen Stacy a lot more than a villain to punch. This story puts Gwen between her life as Ghost-Spider, her place in The Mary Janes, pressure at home with George Stacy, the legacy of her late mother Helen, and the complicated arrival of music superstar Trixie St. Dixie. Add in Spider-Punk, Arachnid, and the battle over Magnolia House, and this book becomes a sharp, emotional, music-fueled ride with real heart. What makes this episode special is how much the conversation goes beyond surface-level Marvel talk. Roseanne gets into character, emotional stakes, music as identity, the lure of fame, and how Gwen's journey becomes a story about choosing who you are before somebody else makes that choice for you. If you love Spider-Verse stories with actual soul, this one is for you. Get your copy of Ghost-Spider: Broken Chords by Roseanne A. Brown Now! Follow Roseanne on Instaram at @rosiesrambles & Facebook at @roseanneabrown Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at: : https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912

Trevor Mueller is back on the Comic Crusaders Podcast, and this episode hits that sweet spot where imagination, education, and straight-up fun all collide. The Chicago-based comics writer has been building serious momentum with Papercutz through Secret S.T.E.A.M. Society: Horses and Secret S.T.E.A.M. Society: Music, two all-ages graphic novels that turn learning into full-on adventure. Trevor's no stranger to crafting engaging stories, with credits that include the multi-Harvey Award nominated Albert the Alien, and these new books show off another side of his game: teaching through excitement instead of talking down to kids. The Secret S.T.E.A.M. Society setup is already a winner. A crew of smart students teams up with their alien exchange-student friend Toot to explore the world, the universe, and everything in between. In Horses, Trevor and artist Gabriel Mayorga take readers through a wild journey that spans time, microscopic detail, and massive imagination to understand these incredible animals. In Music, Trevor teams with Christian Colbert for a volume that dives into sound waves, instruments, vocal cords, the ear, and even the brain. That's not just educational — that's sneaky-smart storytelling with swagger. What makes this conversation pop is that Trevor doesn't just talk about the books he gets into the why behind them. Why younger readers deserve stories that respect their intelligence. Why comics are such a beast of a medium for teaching complicated ideas visually. Why curiosity matters. And how you make something like horses or music feel cinematic instead of classroom-flat. There's also great insight into his collaborations, from Gabriel Mayorga's visual versatility on Horses to Christian Colbert helping transform music into something readers can practically hear with their eyes. This episode is for comic fans, parents, educators, creators, and anybody who loves seeing stories do more than one job at once. Trevor Mueller came through with heart, humor, and a real understanding of how to make books matter. Secret S.T.E.A.M. Society: Horses is out now, and Secret S.T.E.A.M. Society: Music is right around the corner. That means now is the perfect time to jump in, get curious, and see why Trevor keeps making noise in the world of all-ages storytelling. Get your copy of Secret S.T.E.A.M. Society: Horses or Secret S.T.E.A.M. Society: Music NOW! Follow Trevor at @TrevorAMueller on ALL social sites Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at: : https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912

On this episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast, Al Mega steps into the nightmare economy with director, writer, and producer Ben Nabors to talk about Dream Feeds, the new creator-owned sci-fi horror comic from This Is It. The book follows Joshua Caldwell, a teenager from rural Appalachia who becomes an overnight sensation by uploading his nightmares to a platform powered by dream-recording technology. What starts as a shot at escape becomes something darker, messier, and way more dangerous once fame, corporate attention, and the public appetite for private pain get involved. Ben and Al dig into the book's central idea the monetization of dreams and why the premise feels uncomfortably close to the reality of the creator economy. They also discuss why real places matter in high-concept storytelling, how Appalachia grounds the series emotionally, and what makes Dream Feeds such a sharp example of body horror for the algorithm era. Dream Feeds is also a milestone release for the This Is It imprint, marking the label's third title after Translunar and Frontierra. The episode also shines a light on the book's stunning physical craft. Artist Dalts Dalton hand-inks pages on large-format paper, with some sequences built through collage, giving the comic a rough, visceral quality that fits the story's emotional danger. If you like your sci-fi with brains, your horror with bite, and your indie comics with something real to say, this is one episode you do not sleep on. Follow Ben on: Website: www.grouptheory.com Social Media: @grouptheory Substack: https://thisisitcomics.substack.com/ Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

Amin Amat is back on the Comic Crusaders Podcast, and this one is for the fantasy fans who like their magic with a little dust, danger, and emotional damage. We're diving into The Road to Oz: Chapter Three, Amin's currently live Kickstarter campaign that continues his darker, cinematic reimagining of Oz this time throwing Dorothy and Scarecrow into 1930s Kansas where the storms aren't just violent, they feel alive. On top of that, the Kickstarter edition includes an exclusive 6-page epilogue made specifically for backers, giving collectors one more reason to jump in now. This episode also digs into Amin's creative journey as an illustrator, designer, and web professional, and how all of those skills help shape the way he builds worlds, presents his work, and connects with fans. With credits that include CodeWord: Geronimo, Kolchak The Night Stalker, Buckaroo Banzai Origins, and Grimm Universe #3, Amin brings both veteran experience and indie fire to everything he touches. We also talk Puerto Rico Comic Con 2026, where Amin brought The Road to Oz to fans as part of the first stop of his 2026 tour. From the convention floor energy to fandom trends to what comes next for the series, this is a fun, insightful conversation with a creator building his universe one bold chapter at a time. Support the Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/theroadto/the-road-to-oz-chapter-three Follow Along on Facebook/Instagram: @The RoadToOzComic Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

WEPAAAA! The Comic Crusaders Podcast locks onto one of the most iconic franchises in pop culture as Al Mega sits down with Skybound Editorial Director Alex Antone to talk the continuing power of G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero. From handling a legacy run tied to Larry Hama, to bringing Cobra front and center in Sssilent Missions, to helping guide blockbuster compendium campaigns, Alex gives us a look behind the curtain at how this franchise keeps evolving without losing the pulse fans love. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ahmz7Mug9go Support the Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/skyboundent/gi-joe-a-real-american-hero-compendium-1-2 Follow Alex on Instagram/X at @alex_antone Follow Skybound on Instagram: @Skybound_Ent Visit Skybound website at https://www.skybound.com/ Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega #GIJoe #ARealAmericanHero #Skybound #LarryHama #ComicCrusaders #AlexAntone #Comics #Cobra

Some comics whisper. Ghostwood walks in, kills the lights, and dares you to keep reading. On this episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast, Al Mega links up with Zach Zeman and RJ Silvers, the creative team behind the indie horror comic Ghostwood, for a conversation about monsters, mystery, collaboration, and what it takes to build a world that feels bigger, darker, and more dangerous than the average cape-and-cowl sandbox. Zach brings a filmmaker's eye and a monster-maker's imagination to the writing, while RJ delivers the kind of visual storytelling that can make a nightmare feel one panel away from real. The result is a book with teeth. Ghostwood drops readers into a paranatural pressure cooker where weirdness is rising, the IPC is back in play, and every case feels like it could open a much bigger door. This episode digs into the team's creative journey, their collaborative process, and why this book has the kind of indie energy fans should be paying attention to right now. Check out the book on GlobalComix:https://globalcomix.com/c/ghostwood Follow along on Social Media: Instagram:   https://www.Instagram.com/ghostwood_comic   Threads:https://www.threads.com/@ghostwood_comic WorldAnvil Wiki: https://www.worldanvil.com/w/ghostwood-doctorborpo RJ:https://rjsilvers.newgrounds.com Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

The creator and comic book letterer returns to break down the collected edition of Corvus, his emotionally charged space horror graphic novel from Dead Sky Publishing. Buddy Beaudoin is back on the Comic Crusaders Podcast, and this conversation goes way deeper than spaceships and monsters. With CORVUS: The Collected Edition now available from Dead Sky Publishing, Buddy joins Al Mega to talk about grief as a survival language, gaming as emotional escape, the power of a reluctant Black nerd hero in science fiction, and how psychological horror can be built not just through art, but through pacing, silence, lettering, and emotional truth. The book follows Daryn Dall, a grieving young gamer who gets dragged into a galactic war he never asked for and discovers that pain can make you powerful — but it can also make you vulnerable to forces that know exactly how to break you. With art by Christopher Sassman and Rebecca Sotira, and colors by Allison Hu, Corvus is the kind of creator-owned comic that brings spectacle and substance to the same fight. In this episode, Buddy opens up about building Daryn as a different kind of sci-fi lead, moving from lettering major titles into creator-owned storytelling, and why Corvus had to be emotionally raw to work. This one is for readers who love horror with heart, sci-fi with teeth, and comics that know survival is never just physical. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YuBC4Yu2Pzg Check out Buddy's Website at https://www.buddybeaudoinlettering.com/ Follow Buddy on Social at: @BuddyOrDie Check out Dead Sky Publishing at https://deadskypublishing.com/ Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

Some stories hit different because they are not polished fairy tales they are built out of grit, faith, and straight-up refusal to quit. That is exactly why today's Comic Crusaders spotlight on Samantha Thompson, known in the industry as Lady Leo Films, matters. Samantha's journey is the kind of story creatives need to hear. Publicly, she has described starting with nothing more than an iPhone and a dream back in 2015, then deciding in 2019 to take filmmaking seriously a decision that helped shape the growing body of work now connected to Prime Video, Tubi, and YouTube. That kind of rise does not happen by accident. It takes guts, patience, and the willingness to do the work when nobody is clapping yet. It takes the kind of creator mentality that says, "I may not have everything, but I have enough to start." That energy is all over Lady Leo Films. From Life Over Death to Lick The Series, The Invite, and DM (Direct Message), Samantha has been putting in the reps and laying down the kind of foundation that turns passion into presence. Now she is pushing forward with QR CODE, a chilling crime thriller built around exploitation, power, and the cost of silence in a world where even human value can be reduced to a transaction. That premise alone tells you this is not just another surface-level thriller. This is a project with weight, danger, and something to say. It is the kind of story that aims directly at the ugly truths people would rather scroll past. What makes Samantha's current moment even more compelling is that she is not pretending the journey is easy. Her public messaging has made it clear that she is calling on ambitious creators, sponsors, and donors who believe in building from the ground up. That speaks to a bigger truth inside the independent film world: sometimes the most powerful thing a creative can ask for is not pity it is partnership. Real support. Real belief. Real community. That is why this episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast is one to watch. It is not just about film. It is about vision. It is about betting on yourself before the room understands the play. And it is about hearing from a filmmaker who is actively carving out her own path instead of waiting for permission. Samantha Thompson, Lady Leo Films, is building. And if you respect hustle with purpose, this is absolutely a conversation you need in your orbit. Follow Lady Leo on Social Media at: Instagram: @ms.ladyleofilms Tik-Tok: @ladyleofilms YT: Lady Leo Films TV Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

Comic Crusaders welcomes back Conor McCreery for a lively conversation about The Last Witch: Blood & Betrayal, the collected BOOM!Box edition of the latest chapter in his acclaimed YA fantasy saga with artist V.V. Glass. In this episode, we dig into Saoirse's evolution, the emotional cost of magic, family conflict, mythic danger, and the creative challenge of bringing a character face to face with everything she was taught to fear. The trade paperback collects issues #1–5, runs 208 pages, and frames this arc as a major concluding chapter in Saoirse's journey. McCreery, a former journalist turned comics writer, has built a career across major publishers and fan-favorite titles, and here he opens up about character growth, collaboration, and why fantasy works best when the emotions are as dangerous as the monsters. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=424KghelxQE Get your copy of at The Last Witch: Blood & Betrayal: https://amzn.to/4skgbIG Follow Conor on Social at: / therealconor https://x.com/ConorMcCreery Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

Dennis Robinson is back, and he is not playing small. The Hive Head Studios creator has officially closed out a successful Kickstarter for Lycan: Solomon's Odyssey Chapters 1–4, the latest major step in his ambitious horror-mythology saga centered on Solomon, the world's first werewolf. The campaign ran from March 1 through April 1, 2026 and finished funded, giving readers another strong sign that Dennis is building something with real bite in the indie comics space. For those new to the series, Lycan: Solomon's Odyssey is not just a werewolf comic trying to coast on fangs and blood splatter. The book has been framed by Dennis and Hive Head Studios as a mix of horror, mythology, adventure, and history, following Solomon's long and painful journey after a desperate act transforms him into the first lycanthrope in human history. Solomon was born around 8,000 BC, and his story stretches through an alternate version of our world where folklore, monsters, magic, and gods are not just whispers in the dark—they are very real problems. That big-swing concept is a huge part of what makes the project stand out. Rather than staying stuck in one lane, the series keeps evolving. Chapter 2 brought in Arabic mythology, grief, PTSD, and magic. Chapter 3 expanded the universe with gods and cosmic horror, described by the official site as an alternate take on The Epic of Gilgamesh mixed with H.P. Lovecraft. Now, Chapter 4 sends Solomon into ancient Egypt, where he seeks out the gods themselves in hopes of finally finding a cure for his curse. Of course, this is Solomon we're talking about, so peace was never going to come easy. Instead, he runs into new weaknesses, new monsters, and more trials trying to tear him apart. And that's really the magic of Lycan. Dennis Robinson is using the werewolf myth not as a finish line, but as the front door to a much bigger story about pain, consequence, identity, survival, and the long shadow of history. Every chapter feels like it wants to ask a new question while still dragging Solomon deeper into the cost of what he has become. Dennis also brings a distinct creator energy to the table. According to Hive Head Studios, he's the creator/writer of the series, a founder connected to other geek-space projects, and a guy who clearly loves channeling horror, storytelling, and nerd passion into something personal and cinematic. That passion shows in Lycan's scope. This is not a safe little indie comic trying to whisper for attention. This is a full-throated monster odyssey trying to carve its name into the wall. So yeah, if you like your comics with mythology, monsters, blood, history, and enough ambition to make your pull list nervous, Lycan: Solomon's Odyssey should be on your radar. Dennis Robinson came back to the Comic Crusaders Podcast with a recently funded campaign, a growing universe, and plenty to talk about. And trust me, this wolf still has miles to go. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KMTxwuaBXAI Follow Dennis Robinson and Hive Head Studios for more on Lycan: Solomon's Odyssey and future projects. Subscribe to Comic Crusaders for more interviews with comic creators, indie voices, and pop culture powerhouses. www.hiveheadstudios.com www.lycanbook.com (for the Kickstarter page) www.instagram.com/hiveheadstudios Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

There are indie games that look cool on a storefront, and then there are indie games that come with a whole philosophy behind them. Astro Burn is shaping up to be one of those. On this episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast, Al Mega sits down with Hasraf "HaZ" Dulull, founder and director of Beyond The Pixels, to talk about the making of the game, the value of agile development, and why the team is now bringing Astro Burn to Kickstarter with a physical edition built around ownership, preservation, and the joy of opening a game like it's the 16-bit era all over again. The campaign messaging emphasizes a physical copy outside digital platforms, plug-and-play simplicity, and a collector-focused experience that revives the ritual of getting a new game. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GeXVfJ7bOf4 Peep the game at: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3810660/Astro_Burn/ Upcoming Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/beyondthepixels/astro-burn-limited-edition-physical-indie-game Website: https://www.beyond-the-pixels.com/ Follow Haz on X: @HaZ_Dulull | Instagram: hazdazzle | Tik-Tok: @beyondthepixels | Facebook: @BeyondThePixelss Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

In episode 678, we dive deep with creator Rade Ravello. Known for the "Assegai Program" and "Dominican Diablo," Rade shares his journey crafting bold, diverse heroes and pushing boundaries. His passion for authentic storytelling and representation makes this episode a must-hear. Check it out and get inspired by his path and creations! YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fK3waGEkkX8 Follow on Social at: Tiktok: Radenkomix0794 IG: Radenkomix Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

Alim Leggett Returns to Comic Crusaders to Talk The Diary of Sweet Pea #3 and the Expanding Sweet Pea Universe There are indie creators, and then there are creators out here building full-blown emotional universes with patience, purpose, and serious artistic intent. That's exactly why having Alim Leggett back on the Comic Crusaders Podcast is such a win. Alim returns to the show with a brand new Kickstarter campaign, The Diary of Sweet Pea #3, the newest chapter in his growing Sweet Pea universe, and this one is coming with grief, intensity, inner demons, and the kind of emotional pressure that can crack a character wide open. According to the campaign, Imani is forced to confront her inner demons after refusing to accept that her father is no longer among the living. That alone tells you this is not just another "cool indie comic." This is personal. Alim has steadily built a reputation as more than just a comics creator. Across recent interviews and creator spotlights, he's described as a writer, artist, art director, founder of Alter Ego Arts, and father of five, with a strong focus on visual storytelling and making every panel matter. That creative philosophy fits Sweet Pea perfectly because the series isn't just trying to look cool it's trying to make you feel something. The larger Sweet Pea saga has been described in prior campaign materials as an apocalyptic sci-fi epic, but what makes it memorable is that all the scope and danger still revolve around very human pain, choices, and consequences. That's what makes this return conversation so interesting. Alim isn't just promoting another issue. He's showing what growth looks like when a creator sticks with a world, sharpens his storytelling tools, and gets bolder about the emotional core of the material. The Diary of Sweet Pea #3 looks like the kind of project that can hook readers with its genre edge and then land the real punch with character work. That combo is always dangerous in the best way. For Comic Crusaders listeners and readers, this is the sweet spot: creator-owned comics, real conversation, and a Kickstarter campaign fans can support right now while it's live. If you love seeing independent creators push their storytelling further and refuse to play small, this is absolutely one to keep on your radar. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1mW4_t4oivM Support the Campaign at: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sweetpeacomic/the-diary-of-sweet-pea-1-3 Follow Sweet Pea Comic and Alter Ego Arts on: Facebook: @sweetpeacomic | AAlimalteregoarts and Instagram: @sweetpea_comic | @_alteregoarts Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912

There's sci-fi that blows up planets, and then there's sci-fi that hits you right in the soul. Ben Crane's Scattered Futures looks like one of those books that understands the future is not just built with machines, war, and shiny helmets—it's built with people, with choices, and with the small acts of kindness that keep us from turning into emotionally expired space jerky. On this episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast, we sit down with writer and editor Ben Crane to talk about his new Kickstarter project, Scattered Futures, a 32-page collection of three full-color science fiction comics that explores hope and human connection in a harsh and fractured universe. The anthology features art by Sierra Barnes, Jenny Fleming, and Martyn Lorbiecki, and adds another strong chapter to Crane's growing body of work, which also includes Cosmic Cadets, A Man of Lies, and editing the sci-fi anthology Systemic. What makes this project stand out is that it isn't just selling cool concepts—it's selling emotional truth. In a recent interview, Crane explained that Scattered Futures came out of a period of personal hopelessness and became a way to imagine a better world through small, quiet moments of optimism. That's a powerful hook right there, because the best comics don't just entertain us—they give us language for what we're surviving. And that's exactly why this conversation matters. We talk with Ben about his creative journey, what it means to work across prose and comics, how editing sharpens storytelling, and why collaboration is everything when building a project like this. We also dig into the DNA of Scattered Futures how three short stories can still feel emotionally rich, why gentleness can be radical in fiction, and how science fiction can reflect the fears of today while still offering a glimpse of tomorrow that doesn't feel totally doomed. For indie comics fans, this is the sweet spot. You've got a creator with real storytelling range, a project with a strong emotional identity, and a Kickstarter that proves readers are hungry for thoughtful, human-centered science fiction. The campaign is already funded and runs through April 4, 2026, which means now is the perfect time for readers to jump in, support the book, and help push this thing even further into orbit. If you love comics with heart, ideas, and purpose, keep your eyes on Scattered Futures. This one feels like it's coming from a real place and those are the books that stay with you. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VauRys2VXU Support the Kickstarter: Ben Crane's Scattered Futures Campaign: ends April 4, 2026: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/672640705/scattered-futures-3-short-sci-fi-comics-32-pages Follow Ben on Social: Bsky: @bencranewrites.com Instagram: @benacrane Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at:  https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912

Patrick Coyle is back, baby, and he's bringing more mystery, monsters, and moody comic-book greatness with Bixby Grant: Fangs & Brimstone #1-4: A Supernatural Mystery, now live on Kickstarter. The campaign runs from March 17, 2026 through April 16, 2026, giving fans a fresh chance to jump into one of indie comics' coolest supernatural noir worlds. honest this book had us at the pitch: "Mummy Detective. Vampire sidekick." That's the kind of concept that doesn't politely knock on your door. It kicks it open, throws fog into the room, and demands your attention. ough RNM Press, Bixby Grant: Fangs & Brimstone blends hardboiled detective fiction, occult horror, and monster politics into a sharp supernatural mystery with a pulp heart. RNM Press describes the series as "HELLBOY meets THE SPIRIT, with the tone of BATMAN: THE ANIMATED SERIES," which is one spicy creative cocktail and a pretty clean snapshot of the vibe Patrick Coyle is throwing down here. nters on Bixby Grant, a mummy private eye navigating a world full of secrets, strange powers, and trouble that never seems to stay buried. In the opening chapter, Bixby takes what should be a routine snoop job while trying to ignore a traumatic anniversary from his past, but things go sideways fast when Diego his rockabilly vampire sidekick inserts himself into the case and the pair collide with a poltergeist and a ritual killing. That's not a bad day. That's a supernatural IRS audit. xby Grant stand out is that it's not just running on "cool monster detective" energy. There's real character work here, real atmosphere, and a real affection for the storytelling traditions of noir and horror. Recent coverage around issue #4 describes the larger Fangs & Brimstone run as a six-issue follow-up to the earlier graphic novel Bixby Grant, Private Eye: Wolf, She Cried, showing that Patrick Coyle isn't just building a gimmick he's building a world. e thinking fits Patrick perfectly. In prior interviews, he explained that launching RNM Press was part of taking control of his own creative destiny rather than waiting around for traditional gatekeepers to decide what gets made and how. That independent spirit is all over this project. It's bold, specific, stylish, and made with the kind of passion comic fans can feel in the pages. o supernatural mystery, noir storytelling, indie comics, or books that sound like they were created by someone who looked at genre walls and said "Nah, I'm good," then Bixby Grant: Fangs & Brimstone #1-4 deserves a serious look. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6KN005xz4LM Back the campaign. Support indie comics. And get ready to follow one mummy detective and his vampire sidekick straight into the weird. https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/rnm-press/bixby-grant-fangs-and-brimstone-1-4-a-supernatural-mystery Follow Patrick on Social Media at: @patrickcoyle71 Subscribe to Comic Crusaders for more interviews with comic creators, indie legends, rising stars, and the wildest voices in pop culture. Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

The returning creator breaks down the newest Star Noir Kickstarter, the evolution of Alan Miller and Ellis Tate, and why Book Four raises the stakes in his six-part detective saga. When Tony James pulls up to the Comic Crusaders Podcast, you already know something cool is about to happen. And this time, he's bringing fresh smoke, fresh secrets, and fresh trouble with Star Noir: Book Four, the newest chapter in his gripping creator-owned sci-fi noir series. For those just stepping into the shadows, Star Noir is a slick genre-bending comic that follows 1940s homicide detective Alan Miller and his grey alien partner Ellis Tate as they investigate a shapeshifter murdering LAPD officers in Central Station. It's a pulpy mash-up of noir tension, alien mystery, detective grit, and serialized suspense that Tony has described as a six-part detective story set across 1940s Los Angeles. And here's the big news: Star Noir: Book Four is live on Kickstarter right now. The campaign launched on March 17, 2026, runs through April 16, 2026, and has already cleared its funding goal, making this another strong step forward for a series that keeps building momentum with readers. Kicktraq's campaign tracking and update listings also indicate this has been the strongest launch of the series so far. That matters, because indie comics live and die by consistency, trust, and the ability to keep readers hungry from book to book. Tony isn't just launching another issue—he's proving that Star Noir has staying power. This campaign also gives readers the chance to grab Books 1 through 4, making it a perfect entry point for new fans who want to dive into the mystery from the beginning while longtime readers push deeper into the case. On this episode of Comic Crusaders, Al Mega and Tony James get into the real good stuff: how a series like Star Noir evolves by the fourth book, how you keep a noir world feeling dangerous and fresh, how character dynamics change as the pressure rises, and what it takes to build a lasting creator-owned comic in today's crowdfunding world. And let's be real, any creator whose body of work includes aliens, detectives, and lunar cowboys was never going to come in here playing it safe. Tony's broader creator identity and project descriptions point to a storyteller who likes genre with guts, and that exact fearless energy is part of what makes Star Noir stand out. If you love creator-owned comics, sci-fi noir, indie ambition, and stories that know how to pull you into a world fast, this is an episode you need in your life. And if you haven't backed Star Noir: Book Four yet, now is the time to stop playing games with destiny and go support a project that's clearly connecting with readers. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87vpewx24YM Back Star Noir: Book Four on Kickstarter now and support bold indie comics: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/starnoir/star-noir-book-four?ref=recommendation-ended-project-1&category_id=Q2F0ZWdvcnktMjUw Follow Tony On: @bananabat (Instagram) The Menu is Not the Meal (substack) Subscribe to Comic Crusaders for more interviews with comic creators, indie legends, rising stars, and the wildest voices in pop culture. Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

Molly Arbuthnott Brings Heart, Craft, and Children's Literature Wisdom to Comic Crusaders Comic Crusaders is thrilled to welcome Molly Arbuthnott to the show, an award-winning author, teacher, editor, and academic from Scotland whose work proves that children's literature is anything but small. Public bios and her official site describe a creative career built around storytelling, education, workshops, books, audio, and direct engagement with young readers and aspiring authors. Molly's journey stands out because she has experience across multiple lanes of the storytelling world. She has taught in classrooms, built books from personal inspiration, developed interactive reading sessions for schools and nurseries, and expanded her work into audiobook and screen-adjacent storytelling. Her official site also highlights workshops that combine story readings, sounds, activities, Q&A, and follow-on educational materials, showing that her work is not simply about publishing a book but creating a memorable literary experience. During this conversation, Al Mega and Molly explore the leap from teaching to authorship, the truth about traditional publishing versus self-publishing, how stories shaped by real life can still feel magical, and why children's books matter so deeply in a distracted age. They also discuss collaboration with illustrators, marketing strategies for authors, how to connect with readers through school outreach, and the exciting process of developing work beyond the printed page. Molly's current public-facing creative world includes books such as Eamonn the Bat, ongoing school visits, her "My Favourite Books" podcast presence, and an animation premiere linked to Oscar the Ferry Cat. That mix of literary passion and practical execution makes this episode especially valuable for authors who need both inspiration and strategy. This episode is a reminder that stories are not passive things. In the right hands, they become tools for empathy, courage, learning, and joy. Molly Arbuthnott is building exactly that kind of work, and this interview is packed with insight for anyone trying to turn imagination into impact. VOTE For Molly for The People's Book Prize: https://www.mollyarbuthnott.co.uk/the-peoples-book-prize-please-vote/ Follow Molly Arbuthnott Website: MollyArbuthnott.co.uk Instagram: @molly_arbuthnott_books Facebook: Molly Arbuthnott Books X: @mollyarbuthnott Subscribe to Comic Crusaders for more interviews with comic creators, indie legends, rising stars, and the wildest voices in pop culture. Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

Michael Dolce pulled back up to Comic Crusaders with not one project, not two, but a whole creative three-piece combo meal. First up is Ones & Zeroes #1 a Sci-Fi / Horror, his recently funded Kickstarter, which is pitched around the idea of an A.I. secretly overtaking humanity. That alone gives the book some timely teeth, because it's playing in that sweet spot where paranoia, sci-fi, and real-world tech anxiety start hanging out together like they pay rent. Then there's Plan 59 From Outer Space Super Deluxe Edition, which isn't just a dust-off job. Michael's own Substack says this new edition adds 30+ extra pages, includes the new Journey of the Ghoul story, and offers a Kickstarter-only hardcover for collectors. That makes it a genuine event release, not just a rerun with lipstick. And because apparently Michael hates boredom, there's also Dungeons & Dimwits – Clownpocalypse Now, an upcoming campaign from the Dren side of the universe that's been publicly teased as a story involving demon-possessed clowns. Which, let's be honest, is already enough to make people say "absolutely not" and then click anyway. Michael's broader public bio reflects a creator who's been building for years across comics, podcasting, and creator-owned work through The Sire, Descendant, and Sire Studios. That makes this episode bigger than simple promotion. It becomes a conversation about momentum, range, and what it looks like when a creator keeps stacking worlds instead of waiting for permission. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OohjP9DWKEI Kickstarter Links: Plan 59 From Outer Space Super Deluxe Edition https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/mdolce/plan-59-from-outer-space-super-deluxe-edition Dungeons & Dimwits – Clownpocalypse Now (Part 1) https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/drenproductionsgames/dungeons-and-dimwits-clownpocalypse-now Ones & Zeroes #1 https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/mdolce/ones-and-zeroes-1 Guest Links Website: MichaelDolce.com Sire Studios: SireStudiosInc.com Instagram: @sirestudios X: @Sire_Studios Bluesky: sirestudios.bsky.social Subscribe to Comic Crusaders for more interviews with comic creators, indie legends, rising stars, and the wildest voices in pop culture. Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

Chris Yates is stepping into the creator-owned spotlight in a big way with Marcus Walker: Kingslayer Protocol, a kinetic sci-fi comic that blends explosive mech-versus-kaiju action with family drama, buried secrets, and the kind of emotional weight that gives giant-robot stories real soul. Set in New Honolulu City, Marcus Walker: Kingslayer Protocol follows Marcus as a war between Kaijus and Kingslayer Mechs rages around him. But instead of putting the obvious hero in the obvious seat, Yates builds a more layered story: Marcus is not the mech pilot. His older brother Kaleb is. That choice alone gives this series a different kind of heartbeat, one rooted in distance, identity, survival, and the pressure of legacy. Yates comes into this project with a fascinating background. Before launching his own book, he worked at The Walt Disney Company and United Talent Agency, specializing in comic book adaptations, non-traditional IP media rights, and creator representation. In 2025 alone, he helped develop, launch, and market four indie publishing Kickstarters that raised more than $87,000 collectively. That experience now feeds directly into this campaign, which feels built with both creator passion and strategic clarity. Artist Simone Ragazzoni brings the visual blast radius, and Yates has openly praised that collaboration as one of the healthiest and most rewarding creative partnerships he's had. The result is a book that promises spectacle, but not empty spectacle the kind where every punch, transformation, and monster clash is tied to something personal. For fans of Ultraman: Rising, Big Hero 6, and Power Rangers, this Kickstarter looks like a sharp mix of nostalgia, modern emotional storytelling, and collector appeal, with variant covers and premium reward tiers helping turn the launch into a real event. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jbKSBeaTtPg Comic Crusaders is hyped to talk with Chris Yates about the road that brought him here, what Marcus Walker challenged him to do creatively, and why this project could be the start of something much bigger. Support the kickstarter at https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/crushyourgoals/marcus-walker-kingslayer-protocol-a-kinetic-sci-fi-comic Chris Yates on Instagram: @cyg47 Chris Yates website: Www.crushyourgoals.com Artist Simone Ragazzoni on Instagram: @simoneragazzoni Subscribe to Comic Crusaders for more interviews with comic creators, indie legends, rising stars, and the wildest voices in pop culture. Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at: : https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912

Joe Illidge Breaks Down Dakota's Legacy and the Future of Milestone in DC's New History of the DC Universe Comic book history is full of legendary moments, but few were as revolutionary as the arrival of Milestone Media in the 1990s. Created by industry visionaries including Dwayne McDuffie, Denys Cowan, Michael Davis, and Derek Dingle, Milestone introduced a wave of heroes that reflected communities and perspectives rarely seen in mainstream comics. Now, that legacy continues with New History of the DC Universe: The Dakota Incident #1, a powerful new anthology exploring Dakota City's place within the larger DC mythology. At the center of this project is Joe Illidge, a respected creative voice in the comics industry who has worked across editorial, writing, and cultural advocacy roles throughout his career. Illidge has long been connected to the spirit of Milestone storytelling — stories that combine superhero action with real-world themes about identity, community, and social change. In The Dakota Incident, the narrative digs deeper into the events surrounding Dakota City and the heroes who protect it, exploring how these characters intersect with the broader history of the DC Universe. For longtime fans, the story represents a powerful return to one of comics' most important cultural milestones. For new readers, it offers an opportunity to discover why characters like Static, Icon, Rocket, and Hardware remain so influential today. As Illidge and the creative team expand the mythology of Dakota, they also reaffirm something fans have always known: Milestone isn't just a comic imprint. It's a movement. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4vlc6tw7tw If you love comic book history, storytelling, and behind-the-scenes industry insights, this episode is for you. Subscribe for more creator interviews and comic book news! Follow Joe on Social Media at @illmasterone Get your copy of THE DAKOTA INCIDENT is #1 On Sale Now! Also check out ILLUMINOUS at https://www.illuminousideas.com. The Milestone Revolution: A Visual Timeline of Dakota City 1993 — Milestone Media Is Born In 1993, four visionary creators Dwayne McDuffie, Denys Cowan, Michael Davis, and Derek T. Dingle launched Milestone Media, a publishing initiative designed to bring new voices, authentic communities, and diverse perspectives into superhero comics. Partnering with DC Comics for distribution, Milestone quickly became one of the most culturally important imprints in comics history. Their mission was simple but revolutionary: Create Superheroes that reflected the REAL World! 1994 — Dakota City Debuts The world is introduced to Dakota City, a fictional urban setting inspired by real American cities. Four major series launch almost simultaneously: • Static – teenage hero Virgil Hawkins becomes the electrifying voice of a new generation • Icon – an alien with the perspective of a Black conservative intellectual • Hardware – a corporate genius turned armored vigilante • Blood Syndicate – a street-level gang of superpowered antiheroes These comics brought social commentary, urban realism, and cultural authenticity rarely seen in superhero books at the time. 2000 — Static Shock Hits Television The character Static explodes into mainstream pop culture with the animated series Static Shock. The show runs for four seasons and introduces Dakota City and its heroes to an entirely new generation of fans. For many viewers, Static Shock becomes their first Black teenage superhero role model on television. 2020 — Milestone Returns After years of absence, Milestone Media returns with a major revival initiative. New series reintroduce Dakota City for modern readers: • Static Season One • Icon and Rocket Season One • Hardware Season One The revival reconnects the characters to the modern DC Universe while maintaining the cultural themes that made Milestone iconic. 2026 — The Dakota Incident Expands the DC Universe   With New History of the DC Universe: The Dakota Incident #1, Dakota City's heroes are woven deeper into the mythology of the DC Universe. This anthology explores how Dakota's heroes and history intersect with the larger DC timeline expanding the legacy of Milestone while opening new doors for future storytelling. For longtime fans, it's a celebration of a revolutionary imprint. For new readers, it's a reminder that Dakota City remains one of the most important settings in comic book history. Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at: : https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912

The digital age has turned everyone into a broadcaster. Cameras are always rolling. Phones are always recording. But what happens when the footage captures something it was never meant to see? That chilling idea is at the heart of PICK-UP, the new crime thriller one-shot from AWA Studios, written by Michael Coast and arriving in comic shops on March 18. In this episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast, Al Mega sits down with Coast to explore the inspiration behind the story and the dangers hiding inside our always-online world. PICK-UP dives headfirst into the collision between social media fame and violent crime. The story follows an influencer whose carefully curated online life spirals out of control when background footage captures a dangerous secret. Suddenly, the camera that once fueled his success becomes the key to unraveling everything. For Coast, the project marks an exciting shift from editor to creator. As a Senior Editor at AWA Studios, he has played a key role in shaping projects from other writers and artists. With PICK-UP, he steps forward as the storyteller himself, bringing a tense, modern thriller to readers. During the conversation, Coast shares insights into the creative process behind the comic, the influence of classic suspense storytelling, and how modern technology has changed the way crime stories can be told. The episode also explores: • Michael Coast's journey into comics • The transition from editor to writer • The influence of Hitchcock-style storytelling • The role of social media in modern thrillers • How technology reshapes crime narratives PICK-UP promises a suspenseful ride that blends psychological tension with a chillingly realistic premise. If cameras truly record everything, sometimes they capture truths people would rather keep hidden. PICK-UP arrives March 18 from AWA Studios. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOl7wjhdwe0 Check out a preview of Pick-Up HERE Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

The Hidden Struggles Behind Comics: C.J. Standal Explores the True Cost of the Industry For most fans, comics are magic. Colorful worlds. Incredible heroes. Epic adventures. But behind every comic book page lies a reality most readers never see. Late nights. Creative battles. Financial uncertainty. And a constant tug-of-war between artistic passion and economic survival. That's exactly what writer C.J. Standal explores in his powerful new book Comics: The Call and the Cost, a thought-provoking collection of essays examining the history and struggles of comic book creators. Standal returns to the Comic Crusaders Podcast with host Al Mega to dive deep into the stories behind the medium. Originally written for the Cartoonist Cooperative Journal, these essays explore the deeper forces shaping the comics industry. The book tackles topics like: • The history of the comic book labor movement • The intersection of art and capitalism • The sacrifices creators make for their craft • The real-life politics surrounding comics creation One of the most fascinating essays in the collection, "The Cost of Comics: A History of the Comic Book Labor Movement," reveals the often overlooked battles creators have fought for recognition and fair compensation. Another essay explores the artistic and business philosophies of legendary creators Charles Schulz, Jim Davis, and Bill Watterson, examining how each navigated the complex relationship between creativity and corporate influence. Standal's work reminds readers that comics are more than entertainment. They are the product of dedication, resilience, and artistic conviction. The book will be available in print, ebook, and audiobook formats, with narration by Nancy Bober bringing the essays to life in a new medium. For fans of The Comics Journal, TwoMorrows, and comics scholarship, this is an essential read. But even casual readers will find themselves gaining a deeper appreciation for the people who dedicate their lives to making comics. Because behind every panel… There's a creator answering the call—no matter the cost. Subscribe for more interviews with creators across comics, film, gaming, and pop culture. Follow CJ on Scoail Media at Bluesky, Instagram, Tiktok, X, Threads: @cj_standal |CJ Standal and CJ Standal Productions on Facebook Website: cjstandalproductions.com Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

Alternia Rises: Abelard Alexis Talks Growth, Grit, and a Funded Kickstarter Abelard Alexis is back on Comic Crusaders and this time, he's coming in victorious. With Alternia #1 officially funded, Abelard joins Al Mega for a high-energy, no-filter conversation about growth since his last appearance, lessons learned the hard way, and what it really means to level up as an indie comic creator. From sharpening his creative process to mastering the chaos of Kickstarter campaigns, Abelard breaks down how Alternia came together and why this project represents a major turning point in his journey. We dive deep into storytelling challenges, community support, creative confidence, and the mindset shift that happens when preparation finally meets opportunity. This episode isn't just about one comic it's about evolution, resilience, and building something that lasts. If you're an indie creator, a Kickstarter supporter, or just love discovering new voices in comics, this conversation is a must-watch. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAvAqD23VMs Follow Abelard on Instagram at @abeillustrations_ Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

The Comic Crusaders Podcast reaches a fitting milestone with Episode #666, and what better way to celebrate this devilishly fun episode than by diving into a chilling new horror series. Host Al Mega welcomes writer Simon Birks and artist Willi Roberts, the creative team behind the upcoming Top Cow / Image Comics mini-series The Thing On The Doorstep. The five-issue series brings readers into a haunting world of psychological dread and supernatural mystery, inspired by classic cosmic horror traditions while delivering a fresh modern storytelling approach. During the episode, Birks and Roberts discuss their creative journeys, how the project came together, and the challenges of translating horror into the visual language of comics. Roberts also shares insight into crafting the atmosphere and tension that make horror comics truly effective. The conversation explores the unique collaborative process between writer and artist, the importance of pacing and mood in horror storytelling, and what readers can expect as the story unfolds across its five-issue run. For fans of horror comics and psychological thrillers, The Thing On The Doorstep promises an unsettling and unforgettable ride. Follow the team on Social Media at: @sbirkswriter | @willirobertsart ðŸ"š Learn More: The Thing On The Doorstep #1 (of 5) https://imagecomics.com/comics/releases/the-thing-on-the-doorstep-1-of-5 Check out their website at: https://bluefoxbookstore.com/ Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at: : https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912

In this high-energy episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast, we sit down with Nicholas Casbarro, creator of the Vitalerium Series, a bold, emotionally driven sci-fi universe inspired by classic and modern science fiction. We talk world-building, creative risk, indie hustle, and what it takes to build a universe that actually means something. If you love sci-fi with depth, this episode is for you. Website: https://vitaleriumseries.com/ Amazon: https://a.co/d/g33NvYP Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Vitalerium-Descent-into-the-Void-Audiobook/B0DKL8YR1R?source_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/vitalerium-descent-into-the-void-nicholas-keating-casbarro/1146017414?ean=9798891323926 BAM!: https://www.booksamillion.com/p/Vitalerium-Descent-into-Void/Nicholas-Keating-Casbarro/9798891323926 Patreon: patreon.com/InsideVitalerium -Social Media- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vitaleriumseries/ @vitaleriumseries FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553020843285 The Vitalerium Series Threads: https://www.threads.com/@vitaleriumseries @vitaleriumseries X: https://x.com/vitalerium @vitalerium TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vitaleriumseries?_t=8lyB9h4ckjG&_r=1 @vitaleriumseries   Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host: Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

Braxton A. Cosby Brings Yasuke to Life on Comic Crusaders Multi-award-winning and international bestselling author Braxton A. Cosby has built a dynamic career spanning novels, comics, and screenplays. With over 18 projects under his belt, Cosby continues to push storytelling boundaries. On this episode of Comic Crusaders, Cosby discusses his latest work, Yasuke, a powerful retelling of the legendary African samurai who rose through the ranks of feudal Japan. We explore: • The creative evolution of Braxton A. Cosby • Writing across multiple storytelling mediums • The research and discipline behind Yasuke • Representation in historical fiction • The future of cinematic adaptations Cosby's passion for storytelling and commitment to honoring history while delivering cinematic drama make Yasuke a must-read. YASUKE: DEAD MAN WALKING YASUKE: RESURRECTION (GRAPHIC NOVEL) The YASUKE Duology (2 book series) Kindle Edition Follow Braxton on Instagram: @braxtonacosby Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 664 in an unlimited series! Host: Al Mega, Follow on X | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: / comiccrusadersworld Twitch: / comiccrusaders Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​

Angel Studios continues its streak of audience-powered success with DAVID, the animated epic that has already surpassed $70 million at the box office. At the heart of the film's emotional and spiritual weight is veteran actor Brian Stivale, who lends his commanding voice to the Prophet Samuel. In an exclusive Comic Crusaders interview, Stivale opens up about the discipline required to voice such an iconic figure, how his theater background strengthened his vocal performance, and why DAVID represents a turning point in animated storytelling rooted in timeless themes. Stivale shares insight into the technical demands of voice acting, the emotional preparation necessary to portray spiritual authority with humanity, and the surprising intensity of recording sessions. As DAVID continues its successful run, Stivale's portrayal of Samuel stands as a powerful reminder that voice alone can move millions. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0XIAwNB-p4 Keep up to date with Brian on Instagram: @brianstivale Check out David on Angel Studios: https://www.angel.com/movies/david Thank You for Watching / Listening!   We appreciate your support! Episode 663 in an unlimited series! Host: Al Mega, Follow on X | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: / comiccrusadersworld Twitch: / comiccrusaders Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ #AngelStudios #DavidMovie #BrianStivale #VoiceActing #Animation #ComicCrusaders