Creator In Conversation

Eisner-nominated Comic Book Creator PJ Holden, joins us in today’s episode to discuss his creator-owned webcomic, ‘Terran Omega’ and his recent collaboration with Mark Russell on the Mad Cave comic, ‘Dog Tag’. Paul discusses his formative years in making comics and his approach as both writer and artist, as well as his use of both digital and traditional tools. This conversation will prove to be insightful for fans of comic book creation and process.SHOW NOTES: To see more of PJ’s work and support his projects, please visit www.pauljholden.com and patreon.com/pjholden

Today’s episode features a special recording from Dublin Comic Con August 2024. Several actors from the animated series Justice League and Justice League Unlimited; George Newbern (Superman), Maria Canals-Barrera (Hawkgirl) and Susan Eisenberg (Wonder Woman) were joined by Casting and Voice Director Andrea Romano in a panel discussing their work together and taking Fan Q&As. Originally the audio file was believed to be of too poor a quality to share but has now been edited for release.SHOW NOTES: This episode is best experienced with headphones due to varying audio quality.

Back in 2013, Robert Curley (Atomic Diner Comics, Sub-City Comics) launched an event called ‘Irish Comic Book Month’, celebrating Irish Comic Book Creators and books. Declan Shalvey and Eoin McAuley were invited to speak on RTÉ’s Morning Edition programme to discuss the Irish Comic Book Scene at the time. The interview was conducted by the late, great Keelin Shanley who sadly passed away in 2020. This recording is re-presented for archival purposes.SHOW NOTES: This episode is taken from an old recording so quality may vary.

Comic Book Artist Joel Folda joins us in today’s episode to share his personal journey as a professional artist and his experience teaching at TASQ Art. Joel has recently produced cover work for the legendary Lee Falk character ‘The Phantom’ and produced the artwork for the motion comic celebrating the 90th anniversary of the hero on this very podcast back in February. Joel also shares his experiences from participating in portfolio reviews.SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded via Zoom in June 2026. 

Owner and Founder of online retailer, Heroes and Villains, Jason Flood, joins us for this episode to discuss his career from comic book and toy retail to making props for film and television, set design for Dublin Comic Con and cosplaying. Jason also previews the upcoming ‘Masters Of The Universe’ film as well as sharing his review of The Mandalorian and Grogu and the films he is looking forward to from The Odyssey to Avengers: Doomsday.SHOW NOTES: For more information about Heroes and Villains visit: www.heroesandvillains.ie

Comic Book Creator, Digital Artist and Concept Designer Hal Laren, joins us for this episode to discuss his career ranging from producing his own books, working on covers for licensed IPs and designing concept work Star Trek: Discovery. Hal is currently running a Kickstarter campaign for his new book, Trojan Cobalt, and shares his experience from using the platform and provides useful advice for others who may be considering launching their own campaigns in the near future.SHOW NOTES: For more information on Hal’s work please visit: thelaren.square.site 

Fer García joins us in this episode to discuss the importance of entrepreneurship as a pathway to success for new and emerging comic book creators. Fer advises on the importance of building your audience and community in order to help support and grow your brand and the points to consider before launching your first crowdfunding campaign. This episode and conversation will prove valuable to creators both new to the field and seasoned professionals looking to expand their market reach.SHOW NOTES: For more information on Fer’s work be sure to search for El Comicólogo

Designer and branding expert Michael Donnelly, Founder of Woolly Mammoth Design, joins us in this episode of Creator In Conversation to discuss the points that rising comic book professionals should consider when preparing an online portfolio and the importance of having a consistent brand across all media channels. Michael also provides important insight in relation to how print files should be prepared for maximum effect.SHOW NOTES: For more information on Michael’s work with Woolly Mammoth Design please visit: www.woollymammoth.ie

Join TASQ Art President Eoin McAuley in this episode of ‘Creator In Conversation’ as he tours the collection of original artwork and movie props on display in the main studio of the academy. Intended as a source of inspiration and instruction for the members and students of TASQ Art, today’s episode is sure to serve as the envy of many collectors of original comic book art by esteemed creators.SHOW NOTES: For the optimal viewing experience, please check out this episode on our YouTube Channel youtube.com/@tasqart

To celebrate FREE COMIC BOOK DAY for May 2026, we present this special episode of 'Creator In Conversation' featuring a short fan-made audio comic featuring the origin of DOCTOR DOOM as originally told by STAN LEE and JACK KIRBY.This audio for this episode was performed by Matt Sheedy.Visit our YouTube channel 'TASQ Art', to see a short motion comic to accompany this episode.This project is a 'fan production' created for entertainment purposes only. We do not own, nor do we claim to own, any rights to the characters, music, or storylines from Marvel Comics. This content is a transformative, unofficial work and is not affiliated with or approved by Marvel Comics . No commercial, monetary, or profit-driven objective is intended.DOCTOR DOOM AND ALL RELATED CHARACTER ™ © AND ALL RIGHTS RESERVED MARVEL 

Author Michael Carroll returns to Creator In Conversation having first appeared in the third episode of the podcast. We catch up with Michael in regards to his latest projects, such as ‘New Adventures From The Trigan Empire’ with Tom Foster, his long-running blog ‘Rusty Staples’ and navigating the chaotic landscape of social media. This conversation provides great insight into the working life of a professional author and comic book writer.SHOW NOTES: For more on Michael’s work please visit: www.michaelowencarroll.com

Comic Book creator Will Sliney joins us for this episode to tease his upcoming tie-in comic with the highly anticipated film release of ‘Masters Of The Universe’ and provide advice for aspiring creators in considering how to curate their own portfolios and discover their own original style. This conversation offers to be both informative and inspiring for all listeners.SHOW NOTES: This episode was during a talk delivered to the students of TASQ Art in April 2026.

Data marketing consultant and lecturer, Sougata Bhattacharya joins us for this episode to discuss how comic book creators can use AI tools to obtain data-driven marketing information in order to better reach and understand their audience, and how to use these tools in as ethical a manner as possible without compromising creative integrity.SHOW NOTES: This episode was edited from a special talk delivered to the students of TASQ Art in April 2026

Comic book artist, lecturer, game and storyboard artist, Gary Erskine, joins us once more on Creator In Conversation to share his insight and approach towards character design and creation. This episode will really provide inspiration for anyone currently trying to develop their own unique characters. Practical advice and tips are also shared and not to be missed.SHOW NOTES: This episode was edited from a three-hour masterclass delivered to the students of TASQ Art in March 2026

The creator behind the critically acclaimed series Marineman Ian Churchill joins us to discuss the potential of a second volume for the series as well as exploring his career and approach to work. Fans of Marvel will enjoy Ian's recollection of working on Red Hulk with Jeph Loeb and co-creating Red She-Hulk. Ian also shares his experience working as a professional comic book artist in the USA during the era of ‘90s comics.SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded during a live Zoom interview in March 2026

Following a six-week fiction writing workshop with lecturer Samantha Brooks, the students of TASQ Art have recorded this reading of their own original stories composed throughout the duration of the course.If you enjoyed this episode featuring the TASQ Art Class of 2025/2026 you can also listen to the stories of the graduating class 2024/2025 in episode seven of Creator In Conversation.SHOW NOTES: The stories that you hear in this episode will be collected as Part of an original prose anthology TASQ TALES VOL. II in 2026

Award-winning and critically acclaimed writer Mark Russell joins us to discuss his routine and approach to writing, tease upcoming projects and provide a unique insight into what it is like to work as a professional comic book writer in the field today. Also explored are some of the themes and thought processes behind great books such as ‘The Flintstones’ and ‘Exit Stage Left: The Snagglepuss Chronicles’.SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded during a live Zoom Q&A with TASQ Art in February 2026

Writer Erica Schultz joins us to discuss her work on Rat City and Rogue and peel back the veil on the role of a writer and share fantactic insight into what it is like pursuing a professional career in comics and the difference between attending a convention as a fan vs as a professional in industry. This is a thoroughly insightful and revealing conversation that is sure to be of interest to any aspiring comics creator.SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded during a live Zoom Q&A with TASQ Art in February 2026

Editor-In-Chief of Todd McFarlane Productions, Thomas Healy, joins us in today’s episode with a very insightful discussion exploring the editorial pipeline and key advice for anyone seeking to pursue a career in comic book editorial. Thomas also shares his approach to writing comics and shines a spotlight on some upcoming projects from the Spawn universe. This is a discussion not to be missed!SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded during a live Zoom Q&A with TASQ Art in February 2026

Actor Jason O’Mara joins us in this very special episode to discuss his recent move back to Ireland and work on renowned projects such as Band Of Brothers, The Siege Of Jadotville, Terra Nova, Life On Mars, Agents of SHIELD and the Batman animated film franchise. With in-depth insight we explore how Jason approaches his roles and navigates the ever changing environment of TV and film.SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded live at The Edge Dublin in association with Podcast Dublin.

To Celebrate The 90th Anniversary of The Phantom, we’re pleased to present this short adaption taken form the introduction of ‘The Story of The Phantom’ from the Avon Novels. This audio recording was produced by Matt Sheedy of Media Vibe and a full motion comic illustrated by Joel Folda can be found on our YouTube Page @tasqart.This is a fan made production.The Phantom and all related characters © 2026 King Features Syndicate, Inc.™ Hearst holdings, Inc. All Rights Reserved.This video is adapted from an older work. It contains, or may contain, outdated cultural viewpoints, stereotypes, and language that are considered offensive by modern standards. These materials are preserved for educational and research purposes, reflecting the context in which they were created. Inclusion does not constitute an endorsement of the views expressed therein. Listener discretion is advised.

In this trailer we preview what is coming up in Season 2 of Creator In Conversation.Be sure to subscribe and follow us online under the handle @tasqart so that you will never miss an episode.

This bonus episode features two archival conversations recorded live at Dublin Comic Con with actress Jess Nesling and Co-Producer of The Simpsons Nikki Isordia, exploring the world of voice over acting for games, working in theatre and what goes into the behind the scenes production of shows live The Simpsons and featuring Q&A with attendees.SHOW NOTES: These episodes were recorded live via Zoom at Dublin Comic Con on August 2022 and March 2023

The legendary voice behind Wonder Woman, Susan Eisenberg, joins us for this special bonus episode of Creator In Conversation. Susan shares the story of how she was cast in the role of the Amazonian Princess as well her time collaborating with the cast during Justice League and Justice League Unlimited. This conversation also features a live fan Q&A.SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded live via Zoom at Dublin Comic Con in March 2023.

Writer John Jackson Miller joins us to discuss his writing of two Batman novels tying into the Burtonverse of films, Batman: Resurrection and Batman: Revolution, as well as his work on other franchises such as Star Wars and Star Trek. John also provides insight to his process in planning a story and working on licensed IPs.SHOW NOTES: This episode is the season finale for season 1 of Creator In Conversation.

Eisner-winning Writer John Layman joins us for this episode to share how his love of Star Wars led him on the path to becoming a comic book fan and eventually an editor and writer in the field. Learn all about John’s days as an editor for WildStorm, some of his key collaborations and hints at upcoming projects.SHOW NOTES: This episode is the first interview recording of the podcast for 2026.

For the 50th Episode of Creator in Conversation, host Eoin McAuley takes us behind the scenes of the podcast’s production and shares what he has learned along the way during the first year of podcasting.Tips and advice as to what microphones and software to use is also shared in this episode alongside the most watched episodes so far from Season 1.SHOW NOTES: This episode is technically episode 51 counting the bonus episode with Elliot S! Maggin in Ep. 16.1

Artist, Writer, Animator, Lecturer and Filmmaker Dave King joins us in this episode of Creator In Conversation to close out 2025. Dave shares some amazing stories such as working as an official Warner Bros. artist on the Looney Tunes comics and animating U2's music video for Batman Forever. This is a jam packed episode sure to delight storytellers everywhere.SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded via Zoom in December 2025

Comic Book Artist and Writer Nick Roche joins us in this episode to discuss his career covering his experiences in both comic books and animation and seeing his designs adapted for different mediums. Nick also shares his experiences working on notable IPs such as TRANSFORMERS but also his creator owned series SCARENTHOOD.SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded during a live panel for Dublin Comic Con March Edition 2023

Comic Book Artist and Writer John Stanisci joins the students of TASQ Art to share his experiences breaking into comics and his latest project GLADIATRIX, currently being published by HEAVY METAL MAGAZINE. John’s story is very inspiring as he shares the hurdles faced by all creators and the mentors that he was fortunate to meet along the way.

Comic Book Artist and Writer joins the students of TASQ Art for this in-depth discussion on comic book production. From conveying your ideas from script to finished page, this episode is a must-listen for any aspiring creator looking to create more of a flow in their sequential narrative. Steve also provides invaluable portfolio advice.SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded during a live class for TASQ Art in November 2025

Comic Book and Storyboard Artist Mike Collins joins us in this episode of Creator In Conversation to share the story of how he began his career as a professional artist and working for both comic books and the world of TV and film as a storyboard artist. Mike provides some fantastic stories not to be missed! SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded during a live panel at Dublin Comic Con March 2023

In this episode we are joined by Seán O’Reilly, an Irish comic creator and animator who serves on the committee of DCAF (Dublin Comics Arts Festival). Sean shares with us what goes into running DCAF and provides his own insights into the growing Irish Indie Comics Scene and parallels with animation.SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded during a live Zoom call in November 2025

On November 10th 2022, the world lost a great talent in Mr. Kevin Conroy. This special edition looks back on his life and career with extracts taken from previous interviews with both Mr. Conroy and his colleagues.Discover the story behind the man who gave the world one of the most definitive portrayals of one of the greatest characters in fiction.SHOW NOTES: This show uses archival recordings from Dublin Comic Con 2022 March Edition and a 2024 TASQ Art Masterclass.

John O'Brien, who has been a producer on the world building team at Larian Studios including working on Baldur's Gate 3, which won Game of the Year in 2023, joins us to discuss transferable skills applicable between animation and game design, what to consider in terms of portfolio preparation and audience Q&A.SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded before a live audience at Dublin Comic Con March Edition 2024

Dave Gibbons, the legendary artist behind Watchmen, The Originals, ‘For The Man Who Has Everything’ and many more, joins us in this special episode to share his career origins, how he tackles the blank page and the tools of the trade. We close out with a live Q&A from attendees at this exclusive talk.SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded before a live class in October 2025

Artist and Writer Stephen Mooney joins us to discuss his career from studying animation to working for Marvel and DC to launching his own creator-owned series Half Past Danger- now currently being developed into an animated film from Studio Meala.SHOW NOTES: This episode was pre-recorded back in October 2025

Co-Producer of hit sci-fi series, 'The Orville', Tom Costantino answers a series of fan questions ranging from the technical production of the show. This episode was recorded shortly after the third season of ‘The Orville’ concluded and was the perfect time for Tom to reflect on the show. Stream all three seasons now on Disney+SHOW NOTES: This episode was pre-recorded back in August 2022 and streamed before attendees of the Summer Edition of Dublin Comic Con.

This special episode of Creator In Conversation explores the story of William Lamport, the seventeenth-century adventure who served as the real life inspiration for pulp character Zorro. Learn how this man from Wexford, Ireland left such an impression on the people of Mexico and the efforts made to adapt his story into a graphic novel.SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded back in July 2020 as part of the Word Balloon podcast hosted by John Siuntres

This archival episode features acclaimed comic book writer and editor Tom Peyer.Tom shares about his career and work with AHOY COMICS and 'The Wrong Earth' while also offering advice for budding creators.For the latest offerings from AHOY COMICS, please visit: www.comicsahoy.comSHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded via a live Zoom Stream during a Dublin Comic Con March 2022 Panel.

Vincent Zurzolo joins us to discuss his work with ComicConnect and Metropolis Comics, overseeing record breaking comic book and original art auctions. Vincent also shares his own original comic series ‘The Addiction’ and his journey from selling comics from a sidewalk table to heading one of the most renowned comic book auction houses in the world.SHOW NOTES: To learn more about ComicConnect and their upcoming auctions please visit:www.comicconnect.com

Frank Miller, the legendary artist and writer behind 300, Ronin, Sin City, Daredevil: Born Again,The Dark Knight Returns and more joins us in this VERY special episode of ‘Creator In Conversation’ to discuss comic book creation, his influences and inspirations and connecting with his Irish roots while visiting Ireland. We also feature a great fan Q&A session.SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded in August 2025 as part of a special Masterclass Event hosted by TASQ Art

Returning to the podcast is Senior Creative Editor at Titan Comics, David Leach. Having recently attended Dublin Comic Con, David participated in a portfolio preparation discussion, sharing with aspiring creators what they should consider when presenting their work and also being candid in terms of the work expected of a professional in the field today.SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded during Dublin Comic Con Aug. 2025 as part of a live panel.

Reese Hannigan joins us this episode to discuss his journey of breaking into comics. From his early days of attending Dublin Comic Con in Artist Alley to now attending having worked on titles such as Star Wars Bad Batch for Dark Horse Comics.Along the way Reese shares his passion for the craft and appreciation for the fans who support his work.  SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded during Dublin Comic Con Aug. 2025 as part of a live panel.

Joining us this episode is Rapha Lobosco who shares with us what it has been like working on ‘Thundercats: Lost’ and his interactions with the Thundercats fandom.Rapha also discusses his process in drawing with digital tools and share memories of breaking into comics and working on the James Bond Dynamite series with Garth Ennis.SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded during Dublin Comic Con Aug. 2025 as part of a live panel.

Writer Ryan North joins us in this episode to discuss his current run on Fantastic Four and writing Krypto: The Last Dog of Krypton. We discuss what it was like writing for two comic book titles that both have received the big screen treatment this summer.Ryan also shares what it was like to visit the set of Fantastic Four: First Steps and takes some fan questions live as well.SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded during Dublin Comic Con Aug. 2025 as part of a live panel.

Mark ‘Zen’ Ditko joins us for the final installment of our miniseries, ‘Steve Ditko: Beyond The Myth’. As Steve Ditko’s nephew, Mark is uniquely positioned to dispel the myths often attributed to Steve Ditko and his philosophies. Mark also shares how the Ditko family are working to preserve the work and legacy of Steve Ditko for future generations, including a special project leading to his centennial.If you are a fan of the work of Steve Ditko or any of the many characters that he created, you will not want to miss this very special episode.  SHOW NOTES: THIS EPISODE IS PART 3 OF A 3-PART MINISERIES ON ‘CREATOR IN CONVERSATION’

Jack C. Harris is the author behind, ‘Working With Ditko’.Mr. Harris shares his experience working with Steve Ditko and the projects that they developed together including some projects which have remained unpublished. We learn about Mr. Ditko’s interest in cinema and storytelling, and through Mr. Harris’s unique experience as both a writer and editor, we discover great insight into how comic books were produced during the time of Steve Ditko and the impact that bristol board size held on an artist’s work. Check out our YouTube Channel to see some art samples shared by Mr. Harris.SHOW NOTES: THIS EPISODE IS PART 2 OF A 3-PART MINISERIES ON ‘CREATOR IN CONVERSATION’.

This episode is the start of a three-part miniseries STEVE DITKO: BEYOND THE MYTH.Exploring the career and legacy of one of the most influential creators in comics.Joining us for this episode is Dr. Zack Kruse is the author behind, ‘Mysterious Travelers: Steve Ditko And The Search For A New Liberal identity’.Dr. Kruse shares his experience corresponding with Steve Ditko and researching his works while also dispelling many myths about Steve Ditko the man in the process. In this episode we will explore the origins of characters such as Dr. Strange and how key plot points for the Green Goblin were planted very early on by Steve Ditko early on in the Spider-Man books- counter to what has long to be believed his reason for leaving the title.

Writer Ron Marz joins us to share his origin story of breaking into comics and his association with other great artists and writers such as Jim Starlin and the late great Bernie Wrightson. Ron also shares memories of writing his Superman short story “Only Child” for Adventures of Superman as well as writing for Silver Surfer and reading the original FF stories.Ron also delves into the creation of Kyle Rayner as a Green Lantern.This is one that comic book readers and aspiring writers won’t want to miss.SHOW NOTES: This episode was recorded during a live Zoom call in July 2025