An online publisher has become the center of some genuinely alarming stories. Brad and Dave break down five hard lessons comic creators can learn when a publisher shows signs of instability, mismanagement, or collapse.

Today's Show

Five Lessons from a Publisher in Crisis
Submitting your work for awards

Summary

Cartoonists Brad Guigar and Dave Kellett explore the importance of owning and controlling one's career in the comic industry. They discuss the need for business acumen among cartoonists and the risks of signing contracts. The conversation emphasizes the value of learning from mistakes in self-publishing, the power of transparency among creators, and the benefits of submitting work for awards. Ultimately, they stress that the goal is not independence at all costs, but informed consent in business relationships.

Takeaways

There is a percentage of humans who can close their nostrils underwater.
Cartoonists must be prepared to be business people.
Your best defense is often not signing a contract.
Mistakes in self-publishing are manageable and teach valuable lessons.
Transparency among creators is crucial for success.
Experience changes the power dynamic in negotiations.
Submitting for awards can provide valuable insights into your work.
Reviewing your work helps improve your editorial and aesthetic eye.
Self-publishing allows for greater control over your career.
Imposter syndrome should not prevent you from submitting your work.

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Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. He is available for personal consultations. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive. He is the co-director of the comics documentary, Stripped.

Five Lessons from a Publisher in Crisis