Comics That Influence – Episode 002 - Alfredo Alcala & Jack Kirby Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2026-09-29 | Comics That Influence – Episode 002 - Alfredo Alcala & Jack Kirby
Indie Creator Exchange 052 Interviews Ian Cinco | Filmmaker to Indie Comics a Journey to Neon Spring Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-10-06 | If you would like to be a guest on the Indie Comic Exchange, please follow this link and fill out the form kurtbrugel.com/indie-comic-book-creator-exchangeIan's website iancinco.com Ian's Instagram instagram.com/ian_cinco In this episode, Jake and Kurt speak with Ian Cinco, an artist and former filmmaker who transitioned into the indie comics world with his sci-fi series Neon Spring and expansive art book series Eratica. Ian recounts his creative evolution, from childhood influences like Calvin and Hobbes to studying illustration at Pratt, working in film, and rediscovering comics during the pandemic. He discusses the genesis of Neon Spring, a dystopian story involving AI, corporate power, and human experimentation, and explores the craft of making comics—blending traditional and digital techniques. Ian shares lessons about self-belief, persistence, and the importance of building community through conventions, Kickstarters, and direct outreach. He emphasizes the value of publishing physical books, selling original art, and nurturing fan connections. Ultimately, Ian views the future of comics optimistically, seeing it as an expanding landscape for creators to connect directly with audiences.3 Educational Points from the Podcast1. Creative Growth Through Transition: Ian’s shift from filmmaking to comics shows how creative skills evolve and intersect across disciplines, enriching storytelling and visual expression.2. Self-Publishing as Empowerment: Building an audience via conventions, direct messaging, and crowdfunding demonstrates how creators can bypass traditional industry gatekeepers and succeed independently.3. Value of Original Art: Selling original pages and building relationships with collectors offers an important revenue stream beyond book sales, underscoring the art’s long-term value.
Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE: Episode 176 | Hand Lettering & Layoing Out Prose Section Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-10-06 | Buy a copy of our Second Printing of our 2nd Turbo Teaser kurtbrugel.com/teaser-comics-black-and-white-indie-home-printed@kenlandgraf6908 We’re live every Sunday at 10 AM EST building our post-apocalyptic indie comic, Turbo Pit-fighter, right on stream.In Episode 177, Jake (writing, penciling, inking, producing) has finished laying out the lettering plan for the Ken Landgraf 6-pager and will begin laying out the illustrated prose pages. Kurt will be hand-lettering Ken’s 6-pager live, focusing on balloon placement, caption flow, and page rhythm.What to expect:Final lettering pass setup for the Landgraf 6-pagerLive hand-lettering: balloons, captions, SFX, and readability tweaksBuilding illustrated prose page layouts and type/image balanceReal-time discussion of workflow, tools, and design decisionsJump into chat with your questions about lettering, page flow, and indie production. Watch Turbo Pit-fighter come together—panel by panel, page by page.Buy a copy of CROM The Barbarian from cromthebarbarian.com
Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE: Episode 176 | Lettering the DOOM and Inking the End Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-29 | Buy a copy of our Second Printing of our 2nd Turbo Teaser kurtbrugel.com/teaser-comics-black-and-white-indie-home-printed@kenlandgraf6908 In this episode of Making Turbo Pit-fighter, Jake dives into finalizing the 6-page comic story "The Casualties", completing the lettering and finishing touches on Ken Landgraf’s dynamic artwork for DOOM Magazine #1: End of the World Anthology. Meanwhile, Kurt gets his hands dirty with spot inking for the prose section of the anthology—bringing vivid, end-times energy to the illustrated narratives that accompany the written word.We talk process, creative pacing, and what it’s like collaborating on two sides of a massive apocalyptic-themed indie project. Whether you’re into hand-lettered comics, gritty end-of-the-world vibes, or the raw reality of indie comic production, this one’s for you.🗓️ Live every Sunday @ 10AM ESTBuy a copy of CROM The Barbarian from cromthebarbarian.com
The Berserkonaut Monster Hunter, Zombies, and an Unfinished Indie Epic #indiecomics Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-27 | In this clip, Jeff Lafferty reveals the original concept for his indie comic The Berserkonaut. The story begins with a monster hunter who discovers bodies in a museum, only to be drawn into a brutal fight with a creature attacking a woman. What follows was planned as a six-issue mini-series: a dark tale of a wealthy mastermind intent on unleashing a zombie apocalypse to take over the city.As the mystery unfolds, the monster hunter teams up with the woman—both battling henchmen and unraveling the sinister plan. With themes of horror, action, and love, The The Berserkonaut was set to become a gripping saga. Though unfinished, its vision offers a powerful look at the kind of bold storytelling indie comics can achieve.@JeffLafferty
Showing My First Comic Pages to Sam Kieth #indiecomics #comicinsights #comicpodcast Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-26 | In this clip, Jeff Lafferty shares the story of one of his earliest breaks into comics. A postcard for a local convention led him to pack up his oversized 18x24 pages—drawn after studying Will Eisner’s How to Draw Comics—and bring them to show Sam Kieth, then rising to fame on Wolverine and later The Max.Jeff recalls standing in line, nervous and inexperienced, only to be met with Kieth’s kindness and encouragement. Instead of dismissing the work, Kieth saw potential and told Jeff he had the talent to pursue a career in comics. That moment of support and generosity made a lasting impact, shaping Jeff’s path as an indie creator.@JeffLafferty
Risking It All on Stop Motion Animation #indiecomics #comicinsights #comicpodcast Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-25 | Jeff Lafferty recalls a turning point in his creative journey when his YouTube channel began generating steady income. After saving $10,000, he saw it as a sign to pivot and pursue a passion project—stop motion animation. For six months, he lived off those savings while pouring his time and energy into the experiment.Although the project was completed, Jeff admits it did not meet his expectations. The results were not as strong as he had hoped, and when the money ran out, he returned to creating art to make a living. This story highlights the risks and realities of following creative impulses, the uncertainty of chasing new directions, and the lessons learned from taking bold chances in an indie career.@JeffLafferty
Rediscovering the Drive to Create Beyond Commissions #indiecomics #comicpodcast Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-24 | Jeff Lafferty reflects on how the grind of commissions once drained the joy from his art. While some projects felt inspired, others left him frustrated and disconnected from his creative goals. Over time, he realized that the key to fulfillment wasn’t simply completing work—it was continually striving to improve, challenge himself, and aim for the next level.In this segment, Jeff discusses the importance of risk, growth, and pushing past complacency. His renewed focus is not just on producing pieces but on rekindling the hunger to outdo himself with every project. It’s an honest look at the struggles and rewards of staying committed to artistic growth in the indie comics world.@JeffLafferty
Discovering Comics on the Spinner Racks #indiecomics Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-23 | Jeff Lafferty shares how his love for comics first began. As a kid, his dad would take him to the gas station and point him toward the spinner racks, letting him pick up four comics for a dollar. Titles like The Avengers and Fantastic Four sparked his imagination, while early encouragement from his mom—teaching him how to draw simple things like a gorilla face—planted the seed for a lifelong interest in art.Seeing that comics were drawn worlds full of adventure, Jeff realized he could create his own stories through art. This moment marked the beginning of his journey into comics, blending childhood wonder with the discovery of storytelling through drawing.@JeffLafferty
Celebrating 50 Interviews with Indie Comic Creators Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-23 | We’re celebrating 50 episodes of the Indie Creator Exchange! What started with Robin Ator’s Kyra Jungle Woman has grown into a weekly series highlighting the journeys of indie comic creators. Over the past year, we’ve learned so much from the artists, writers, and visionaries who shared their experiences with us—covering everything from creative influences and character development to promotion, visibility, and the business side of comics.Join Jake and Kurt as they reflect on the first 50 interviews, thank the creators who’ve appeared (some two or three times already), and look forward to another 50 and beyond. Whether you’re making comics, reading them, or dreaming of your own creative path, this milestone episode is for you.See you on Sundays for more indie comics conversations!
Indie Creator Exchange 051 Interviews Jeff Lafferty | Painter, Beserkonaut, Stop Motion Animator Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-22 | If you would like to be a guest on the Indie Comic Exchange, please follow this link and fill out the form kurtbrugel.com/indie-comic-book-creator-exchangeJeff's Instagram instagram.com/jeff_lafferty Jeff's YouTube channel youtube.com/@JeffLafferty @JeffLaffertyThis episode of Indie Creator Exchange features artist Jeff Lafferty, tracing his journey from discovering comics on spinner racks in Colorado to working in the industry with Malibu, Continuity, and Marvel. Jeff candidly shares how early encouragement, mentors like Sam Kieth, and indie opportunities shaped his path. His career has been defined by cycles of art, commissions, and pivots—moving from comics to painting, airbrush work, prints, commissions, YouTube artcasts, and even stop-motion animation. Jeff speaks openly about financial struggles, the pressures of commissions, and the delicate balance between passion and survival as an indie creator. His project The Berserker Knot embodied this tension: launched with promise through “100 Days of Comics” but ultimately unfinished due to burnout and economics. Today, Jeff embraces painting with less financial stress, focusing on creative fulfillment. His story highlights persistence, reinvention, and the ongoing challenge of balancing artistic freedom with financial realities.3 Educational Points1. Networking and Mentorship – Jeff’s story shows how mentorship (Sam Kieth) and networking at conventions can provide crucial early opportunities.2. Diversified Income Streams – Success often comes from combining commissions, prints, online shops, and videos rather than relying on one source.3. Art vs. Survival Balance – The recurring theme is balancing financial needs with creative passion—highlighting that “no stress, no deadlines” projects often fuel longevity.
Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE: Episode 175 | Guest Host Alex Trubin & The DUKE for DOOM Mags 1 Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-21 | Buy a copy of our Second Printing of our 2nd Turbo Teaser kurtbrugel.com/teaser-comics-black-and-white-indie-home-printed@kenlandgraf6908 @alexturbin04401 Episode 175 goes LIVE with special guest host Alex Trubin, who is hard at work on his 11-page story The DUKE for DOOM Magazine #1: The End of the World Anthology. Jake, Kurt, and Alex dive into the creative process—breaking down art, storytelling, and the apocalyptic vision behind this new indie project.Catch behind-the-scenes updates on Turbo Pit-Fighter and DOOM Magazine, plus live discussion about building comics from concept to page.Join the live chat, ask questions, and watch as the last steps come together for one of the standout stories in DOOM Magazine #1.🗓️ Live every Sunday @ 10AM ESTBuy a copy of CROM The Barbarian from cromthebarbarian.com
Indie Comic Book Creator Update Reel 004 - September 16th, 2025 Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-16 | Welcome to the Indie Creator Update Reel – a fast-paced spotlight series featuring some of the most exciting voices in independent comics, zines, and visual storytelling. Jason Schoonover - www.schoon.arthttps://www.schoon.art/ YouTube channel @SCHOONdotARTTC Pescatore - Instagram @tcpeskyinstagram.com/tcpeskyPat O'Malley – punchpublishing.compunchpublishing.comYouTube channel @PatOMalley D Moses – pastitch.compastitch.comPat Higgins – pat-higgins.compat-higgins.comChris Anderson – chrisandersoncomics.comchrisandersoncomics.comYouTube channel @chrisandersoncomicsJay Bethke – shadeplantstudios.blogspot.comshadeplantstudios.blogspot.com Rick Lopez – Instagram @doomdazedinstagram.com/doomdazedEach creator shares a quick 1-minute update on what they're working on, what’s available now, and what’s coming next. Whether it's a new comic, zine release, art drop, or indie publishing launch, this series is all about celebrating DIY creativity and keeping you connected to the heart of the underground comics scene. Hosted by Turbo Pit-fighter creators Kurt Brugel and Jake Jacobs, the Update Reel brings you behind-the-scenes energy, project announcements, and real-time indie momentum. Subscribe to catch every update and discover your next favorite creator. ?Want to send us your update reel? Reach out at kurtbrugel.com/indie-comic-book-creator-exchange ?New reels drop regularly!
Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE: Episode 174 | Finishing Touches | Ken Landgraf’s The CASUALTIES Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-15 | Buy a copy of our Second Printing of our 2nd Turbo Teaser kurtbrugel.com/teaser-comics-black-and-white-indie-home-printed@kenlandgraf6908 @comicspeopleNYC Welcome to Episode 174 of Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE—the only comic podcast where the creators meet every Sunday at 10AM EST to make comics in real time.This week, Jake Jacobs (writer/penciler) and Kurt Brugel (inker/producer) are putting the finishing touches on Ken Landgraf’s artwork for the short comic The CASUALTIES, which will appear in the upcoming DOOM Magazine #1: The End of the World Anthology.Expect behind-the-scenes insights into:Final lettering and polish for Landgraf’s raw, outlaw pagesEditing for clarity while respecting the original artPreparing the story for inclusion in the anthologyJoin the live chat, ask questions, and watch as the last steps come together for one of the standout stories in DOOM Magazine #1.🗓️ Live every Sunday @ 10AM ESTBuy a copy of CROM The Barbarian from cromthebarbarian.com
Indie Creator Exchange 050 Interviews Scott Harris-King | Crime Busters, Quest, Cthulhu vs Uncle Sam Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-08 | If you would like to be a guest on the Indie Comic Exchange, please follow this link and fill out the form kurtbrugel.com/indie-comic-book-creator-exchangeScott's Instagram instagram.com/the_crimebusters Scott's website crimebustercomics.com Scott's Kickstarters kickstarter.com/profile/thecrimebusters/created?ref=project_creator_tab In this Indie Creator Exchange episode, comic creator and small publisher Scott Harris-King opens up about the harsh realities of growing an indie comic brand in an oversaturated market. Known for series like The Crimebusters and Cthulhu vs. Uncle Sam, Scott shares how his love for comics drives him forward despite recent struggles with visibility, reach, and sustaining momentum. Unlike others who may view indie comics as a path to quick success, Scott is candid about the emotional toll, marketing challenges, and constant effort required to stay afloat. He reflects on using platforms like Kickstarter, balancing passion with practicality, and fighting creative burnout. This conversation offers a raw look into what it takes to keep making comics when the industry feels stacked against you, and why personal drive and love for the medium might still be enough to persevere—even when the path forward is uncertain. 3 Educational Points (Scott Harris-King Episode)1. Saturation is RealScott outlines how the sheer volume of indie comics today makes it increasingly difficult for any creator to gain traction without serious marketing strategy.2. Kickstarter is a Double-Edged SwordCrowdfunding can be helpful, but it’s not a guarantee of success. Scott discusses how reliance on it can also cause fatigue.3. Consistency vs. VisibilityMaking books consistently isn’t enough—you also need to be constantly visible in communities and online, which can burn out even the most devoted creators.
Comics That Influence LIVE: Episode 059 | Pheobe Zeit-Geist, Bizarre Adventures 25 & BIG Comic Hauls Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-08 | Buy a copy of our Second Printing of our 2nd Turbo Teaser kurtbrugel.com/teaser-comics-black-and-white-indie-home-printedIn Episode 059 of Comics That Influence LIVE, Jake Jacobs and Kurt Brugel sit down to flip through more comics that shaped their love for the medium and continue to inspire their own creative work.This week:Jake brings two wild picks—The Adventures of Phoebe Zeit-Geist, a groundbreaking underground satire, and Marvel Bizarre Adventures #25, one of the oddest and most experimental runs Marvel ever published.Kurt digs into three recent comic hauls he scored from eBay and MyComicShop.com, sharing his impressions, hidden gems, and what these books bring to the table as influences on Turbo Pit-fighter and beyond.Join us as we celebrate the comics that fuel our storytelling—unearthing forgotten treasures, discussing their impact, and connecting the dots between past creativity and today’s indie comics scene. Buy a copy of CROM The Barbarian from cromthebarbarian.com
Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE: Episode 173 | Continue Working on the Ken Landgraf 6-Pager Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-08 | Buy a copy of our Second Printing of our 2nd Turbo Teaser kurtbrugel.com/teaser-comics-black-and-white-indie-home-printedWelcome to Episode 173 of Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE—the only comic podcast where the creators meet every Sunday at 10AM EST to make comics on air.This week, Jake Jacobs (writer/penciler) and Kurt Brugel (inker/producer) continue work on the 6-page story with art by indie legend Ken Landgraf for DOOM Magazine #1: End of the World Anthology.Follow along as they refine lettering, page flow, and visual storytelling—balancing raw, outlaw art with the demands of tight panel layouts. Expect discussions on creative problem-solving, editing for clarity, and the craft of making post-apocalyptic comics in real time.Join the live chat, ask your questions, and see the process unfold from script to page.🗓️ Live every Sunday @ 10AM ESTBuy a copy of CROM The Barbarian from cromthebarbarian.com
Why Ken Landgraf’s Comics Are an Eyeball Feast | Old School #Outlawcomics Artist #comicinsights Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-07 | In this clip, Kurt Brugel shares why he’s so inspired by the legendary indie artist Ken Landgraf.Ken’s work is iconographic—his entire page layout becomes a compositionally complete feast for the eyes. Every panel pulls you in, full of action, detail, and energy—without wasting space on static talking heads. His style embodies an old school outlaw approach to comics, where the storytelling never slows down.Kurt explains how Ken takes a script and sketches as starting points, then runs with them, making bold choices in pacing and panel composition. Even when some elements are left out, the end result is always dynamic, layered, and unmistakably Landgraf.If you’ve never experienced Ken’s work, you’re missing one of the most raw, exciting, and uncompromising voices in comics.@kenlandgraf6908
What Counts as a Gundam? | Giant Robots vs Mobile Suits #gundam #mobilesuit #comicinsights Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-06 | In this clip, Kurt Brugel and Jake Jacobs get into a fun side discussion about Gundam and the difference between giant robots and mobile suits.Is every mechanized battle suit a “Gundam”? Or is Gundam specifically a piloted suit you live inside, as opposed to a towering robot like Godzilla’s mechanical rivals? Kurt admits Gundam wasn’t really his territory growing up—that was his brother’s obsession—but the debate opens up the bigger question of how mech design impacts storytelling.Whether you’re a diehard Gundam fan or just someone who loves giant robots in comics and anime, this conversation explores where the definitions blur, and why terminology matters when designing big machines for epic battles.
The Unsung Role of Comic Letterers | Comics That Influence Podcast #comicinsights #indiecomics Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-05 | In this clip, we dive into the overlooked but essential role of the comic book letterer—the person often sitting right next to the editor, making sure every word is spelled correctly, every balloon flows, and the story reads smoothly.Lettering may not always be the “sexy” side of comics, but without it, even the most beautiful art can fall flat. From typos to flow, the letterer’s craft shapes the reader’s experience—and people are noticing more than you think.Join us as we talk about how editors and letterers worked side by side in the old days, why their job is often underappreciated, and why comic fans are finally starting to give lettering the respect it deserves.
The Overlooked Art of Word Balloons | Why Lettering Matters in Comics #comicinsights #indiecomics Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-04 | In this clip, Kurt Brugel and Jake Jacobs dig into one of the most overlooked aspects of comic creation—lettering and word balloon placement.Too often, creators focus on making their art look like a comic but then gloss over lettering, treating it as an afterthought. But as Kurt and Jake explain, great comics start with planning where narration boxes and word balloons will go. Placement shapes flow, rhythm, and clarity, while poor choices can ruin pacing, cover critical art, or leave empty, awkward spaces.This conversation highlights why lettering isn’t just about putting words on a page—it’s part of the art itself. From balancing design with readability to respecting the artwork underneath, lettering decisions can make or break the reader’s experience.If you want your comic to look polished and professional, don’t skip the details—this discussion explains why.
Testing Mixam Printing | Lower International Shipping for Indie Comics #printingcomics #indiecomics Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-03 | In this update, Kurt Brugel shares his experience testing out Mixam for printing comics and why it could be a game-changer for indie creators.After seeing Jamie Barrows and the Crom Brotherhood successfully release Brutal Blade of Crom #2 through Mixam, Kurt decided it was time to try them out firsthand. The biggest potential breakthrough? Mixam has print shops in Canada, England, Australia, and New Zealand, meaning fans in those countries could order comics locally and save big on shipping.Instead of paying international rates, readers could soon pay local postage—like Royal Mail in the UK for just $5.25—making indie comics more affordable and accessible worldwide.This could dramatically reduce costs for both creators and fans, reshaping how small press comics are produced and delivered across the globe.@Just.Jamie.Comics
Indie Creator Exchange 049 Interviews Alfred Carcieri | Renegade & Defective Comics Anthology Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-03 | If you would like to be a guest on the Indie Comic Exchange, please follow this link and fill out the form kurtbrugel.com/indie-comic-book-creator-exchangeAlfred's Instagram instagram.com/alfredcomicAlfred's website alfredcomic.comDefective Comics website defectivecomics.netIn this episode, Alfred Carieri passionately discusses the deep, personal reasons behind pursuing indie comic book creation—not as a profession, but as a calling. The conversation dives into how storytelling, childhood nostalgia, and creative expression drive creators more than fame or profit. The speaker reflects on the formative experience of discovering comics on a spinner rack, the intoxicating smell of paper and ink, and how those moments shaped a lifelong love for the medium. Creating comics, they say, is a compulsion—something one must do to feel whole, even without financial reward. The discussion contrasts professional ambitions with artistic fulfillment and explores how creators balance day jobs while tirelessly working on their comics at night. This episode is an ode to the indie comic community—those who build worlds not for clout but because it’s who they are at their core.3 Educational Points from the Podcast1. Comics Can Be a Calling, Not a Career: Many creators pursue comics not for commercial success but because it’s a vital part of their identity and self-expression.2. Nostalgia as Creative Fuel: Early exposure to comics—through spinner racks, newsstands, or corner stores—often imprints deeply and inspires lifelong creativity.3. Balancing Creativity and Reality: Indie creators often maintain full-time jobs while dedicating late nights and weekends to their comics, proving dedication and resilience.
Lettering Details That Matter | Fonts, Spacing, and Comic Readability #indiecomics #comicinsights Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-02 | In this clip, Kurt Brugel discusses the finer points of comic lettering—from kerning and line spacing to font size inconsistencies.Even when fonts are set at different point sizes, the actual height and weight of letters can vary, requiring adjustments by eye. Sometimes that means lowering the type height while increasing horizontal width to achieve balance and readability.The conversation highlights how Marvel, DC, and indie creators alike approach lettering differently—some putting in careful attention, others simply typing out a font. But at every level, the goal is the same: to avoid lettering that distracts from the story.If you’ve ever wondered why lettering can look inconsistent across comics, or how to tweak type to make it flow naturally, this breakdown gets into the often-overlooked craft that holds comics together.
Turbo Pit-fighter Teaser | 2nd Mixam Printing + Bonus Material #indiecomics #zine #postapocalyptic Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-02 | The 2nd Mixam Printing of the 2nd Turbo Teaser is here! This 16-page zine features the first 12 pages of the Turbo Pit-fighter saga, packed with post-apocalyptic action and exclusive bonus content. Printed by Mixam, bagged and boarded, and perfect for indie comic collectors.Purchase here: kurtbrugel.com/teaser-comics-black-and-white-indie-home-printed/turbo-pit-fighter-2nd-turbo-teaser-2nd-printing-by-mixamCreated by Jake Jacobs (story & pencils) and Kurt Brugel (co-author & inks). At just $5.00, this release is a chance to own a piece of indie comic history in authentic zine format.
Indie Comic Book Creator Update Reel 003 - September 1st, 2025 Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-01 | Welcome to the Indie Creator Update Reel – a fast-paced spotlight series featuring some of the most exciting voices in independent comics, zines, and visual storytelling. Chance Priest – wotu.toyshttps://www.wotu.toys/ Jay Bethke – shadeplantstudios.blogspot.comshadeplantstudios.blogspot.com Gautam Sheoran – pulp2pixel.compulp2pixel.com Stephen Cullis – nectarcomics.comnectarcomics.comKurt Brugel – cromthebarbarian.comcromthebarbarian.comEach creator shares a quick 1-minute update on what they're working on, what’s available now, and what’s coming next. Whether it's a new comic, zine release, art drop, or indie publishing launch, this series is all about celebrating DIY creativity and keeping you connected to the heart of the underground comics scene. Hosted by Turbo Pit-fighter creators Kurt Brugel and Jake Jacobs, the Update Reel brings you behind-the-scenes energy, project announcements, and real-time indie momentum. Subscribe to catch every update and discover your next favorite creator. ?Want to send us your update reel? Reach out at kurtbrugel.com/indie-comic-book-creator-exchange ?New reels drop regularly!
Indie Creator Update Reel #2 | 48+ Interviews and the Exchange Project #indiecomics #postapocalype Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-01 | The biggest news this week is that the Indie Creator Update Reel #2 is finished and going live tomorrow.Kurt Brugel and Jake Jacobs break down what’s happening behind the scenes with the Indie Creator Exchange—their ongoing project where they swap their own Turbo Teaser comic for another creator’s work, then come together to talk comics.So far, they’ve recorded nearly 48 interviews (with some repeat guests), creating an ever-growing archive of conversations with indie creators from across the scene. At the end of almost every interview, they always say, “we’ll have you back on”—and they mean it. The Update Reel is a way to keep those conversations flowing while spotlighting even more voices from the indie community.Tune in for news, updates, and a look at what’s next for the Indie Creator Exchange.
Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE: Episode 172 | Building an Indie Comic Page by Page | Doom Mags Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-09-01 | Buy a copy of our Second Printing of our 2nd Turbo Teaser kurtbrugel.com/teaser-comics-black-and-white-indie-home-printedWe’re back with Episode 172 of Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE—the only comic book podcast where the creators meet every Sunday at 10AM EST to actually make the comic on air.Join Jake Jacobs (writer/penciler) and Kurt Brugel (inker/producer) as they continue building their post-apocalyptic indie comic Turbo Pit-fighter page by page, panel by panel.This week’s session dives into the ongoing production process: writing, penciling, inking, and refining new pages in real time. Along the way, Jake and Kurt discuss creative decisions, storytelling choices, and the behind-the-scenes challenges of bringing a creator-owned comic to life.Come hang out, watch the process unfold, and ask questions live in the chat. This is your front-row seat to indie comics being made from the ground up.🗓️ Live Every Sunday @ 10AM ESTBuy a copy of CROM The Barbarian from cromthebarbarian.com
Indie Creator Exchange Updates | Upcoming Guests Alfred Cercieri, Scott Harris King, & Jeff Lafferty Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-08-31 | In this update, Kurt Brugel and Jake Jacobs share what’s coming up on the Indie Creator Exchange podcast.We’re lining up an incredible series of guests—starting with Alfred Cercieri on our follow-up episode, followed by Scott Harris King. Both are creators we met and connected with at IC3, and we’re excited to bring them into the conversation.Then, a long-overdue highlight—Jeff Lafferty of Berserkonaut—joins us for what’s sure to be one of our biggest episodes yet. Jeff’s art, dedication, and creative journey have been a huge inspiration, and we can’t wait to talk shop with him.Stay tuned as we continue to spotlight the indie comic creators who are shaping the scene today.@JeffLafferty @theclassiccomiccollector
Handmade Lettering vs Digital Type | Finding the Right Aesthetic in Comics #indiecomics Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-08-30 | In this clip, Kurt Brugel shares his approach to lettering and how he blends traditional and digital techniques to keep his work reading as a single cohesive object.By typing text, lowering the opacity, hand-lettering over it, and then overlaying the final work in Photoshop, he ensures the lettering feels natural and handmade rather than distracting. While it may look a little “janky” at times, that imperfection is part of the aesthetic—adding character and consistency to the art.The discussion also touches on balancing personal style with audience expectations, and the reality that no approach will please everyone.If you’re curious about comic lettering workflows, the balance between digital polish and handmade grit, or how to make your art feel unified, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the process.
Designing the Giant Automaton | Duke Story Planning for DOOM Magazine #1 #indiecomics #postapocalye Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-08-29 | In this behind-the-scenes discussion, Kurt Brugel and Jake Jacobs talk through the creative challenges of designing the giant automaton that will play a pivotal role in the Duke story for DOOM Magazine #1: End of the World Anthology.Should it be a massive Gundam-style mech? A towering War of the Worlds–inspired tripod? Or something else entirely? The design doesn’t just shape the visuals—it may also influence how the script is written and how the Duke’s attack on de-Hubergen headquarters unfolds.Tune in as we explore the back-and-forth of design choices, collaboration with Alex, and how big creative decisions like this ripple through both art and story.@alexturbin04401
Indie Comic Book Creator Update Reel 002 - August 25th, 2025 Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-08-25 | Welcome to the Indie Creator Update Reel – a fast-paced spotlight series featuring some of the most exciting voices in independent comics, zines, and visual storytelling. Gorka Uztarroz – linktr.ee/cosmogol666 https://linktr.ee/cosmogol666 Steve Mcardle - Instagram @steveacemcardleinstagram.com/steveacemcardle Jason Schoonover - www.schoon.arthttps://www.schoon.art/ TC Pescatore - Instagram @tcpeskyinstagram.com/tcpeskyNoah Luciani – linktr.ee/artofnlhttps://linktr.ee/artofnlPat O'Malley – punchpublishing.compunchpublishing.comEach creator shares a quick 1-minute update on what they're working on, what’s available now, and what’s coming next. Whether it's a new comic, zine release, art drop, or indie publishing launch, this series is all about celebrating DIY creativity and keeping you connected to the heart of the underground comics scene. Hosted by Turbo Pit-fighter creators Kurt Brugel and Jake Jacobs, the Update Reel brings you behind-the-scenes energy, project announcements, and real-time indie momentum. Subscribe to catch every update and discover your next favorite creator. ?Want to send us your update reel? Reach out at kurtbrugel.com/indie-comic-book-creator-exchange ?New reels drop regularly!
Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE: Episode 171 | Light Edits on Ken Landgraf’s Pages | DOOMMag #1 Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-08-25 | Buy a copy of our 2nd Turbo Teaser kurtbrugel.com/teaser-comics-black-and-white-indie-home-printedWe're back with Episode 171 of Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE—the only comic podcast where the creators meet every Sunday at 10AM EST to actually make the comic on air.Today, Jake Jacobs (writer/penciler) and Kurt Brugel (inker/producer) are tackling lettering and light editorial adjustments on Ken Landgraf’s pages for DOOM Magazine #1: End of the World Anthology. We’ll walk through balloon placement, caption hierarchy, SFX choices, and page flow—making sure the text enhances, not fights, Ken’s high-energy line work.What you’ll see:Establishing a lettering style guide for DOOM #1Balloon shapes, tails, and reading order fixesSFX integration that complements the inksMicro-edits for clarity and pacing (without stepping on the art)Join the chat, ask technical questions, and watch the process unfold in real time.Live Sundays @ 10AM ESTBuy a copy of CROM The Barbarian from cromthebarbarian.com
FEMBAT! The Go-Go Dancer Turned Vampire Slayer #powercomics #indiecomics Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-08-21 | Meet Fembat—a Catholic schoolgirl turned go-go dancer who was bitten by a vampire in 1968 and cursed with powers she never asked for. After waking to sunlight that burned her skin, she vowed to hunt the vampire who turned her and reclaim her humanity. For 50 years, she’s traveled the world slaying monsters, demons, and the undead—armed with high-tech battle armor crafted by a rogue scientist.If you love retro pulp heroes, supernatural lore, and badass women with jetpacks, Fembatch is your next obsession.
Indie Creator Exchange 048 Interviews Brett Cantrell | Fembat Executor & Femme Fatales Power Comics Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-08-20 | If you would like to be a guest on the Indie Comic Exchange, please follow this link and fill out the form kurtbrugel.com/indie-comic-book-creator-exchangeBrett's Fembat #1 Fundmycomic campaign fundmycomic.com/campaign/270/fembat-volume-1 Brett's YouTube channel youtube.com/@apexcomix3200@apexcomix3200In this episode of Indie Creator Exchange #48, Brett Cantrell shares his lifelong journey in comics, beginning with early influences like Little Abner, Conan the Barbarian, and Swamp Thing. Inspired by newspaper strips and spinner rack discoveries, Brett taught himself to draw before pursuing art courses in high school and college. He recalls his first publication in 1996, a flipbook titled Executor and Femme Fatale, printed in limited numbers before moving on to larger runs. Brett discusses his love for black-and-white indie comics, his later creations like Fembat and Blue Cat, and his experience crowdfunding through FundMyComic. Alongside sharing stories about distribution challenges and the rarity of his earliest books, Brett emphasizes the value of indie communities, conventions, and collaboration. He also highlights his influences, from Jack Kirby to Billy Tucci, and his dedication to traditional pen-and-ink artistry that keeps the classic comic craft alive.3 Educational Points from the Podcast1. Self-Taught Learning – Many indie creators begin with inspiration from mainstream comics but build their skills independently through practice and persistence.2. Publishing Challenges – Printing, distribution, and managing small print runs remain core hurdles for indie publishers, often requiring direct sales at conventions or crowdfunding.3. Community Importance – Groups, conventions, and platforms like FundMyComic provide critical support, exposure, and collaboration opportunities for independent creators.
The Spinner Rack That Changed My Life: Discovering Conan in Coleman, Texas #powercomics #indiecomics Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-08-19 | In this nostalgic reflection, we revisit a childhood moment in Coleman, Texas, where a small-town convenience store named Ratchens became a comic book gateway. Hear how a humble spinner rack full of Marvel comics—featuring Conan the Barbarian #6 and Swamp Thing—left a lasting impact and sparked a lifelong love for comics.
Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE: Episode 170 | Lettering Ken Landgraf’s Pages for DOOM Magazine Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-08-18 | LIVE stream of Making Turbo Pit-fighter, an exciting journey into the world of our post-apocalyptic sci-fi comic. Written and penciled by Jake, with inks and storyline support by Kurt, Turbo Pit-fighter explores a gritty, lawless future where survival depends on fighting skill and grit. In this live session, we'll dive into the creative process behind the scenes, talk about our inspirations, and answer your questions about building a comic from the ground up. Don't miss this insider look into the making of an indie comic that's as action-packed as it is visually thrilling! Watch live on YouTube and Instagram.Buy a Copy of Turbo Teaser #2 - PRINT or PDF -kurtbrugel.com/teaser-comics-black-and-white-indie-home-printed/2nd-turbo-pit-fighter-teaser-12-pages-plus-bonus-materialBuy a copy of CROM The Barbarian from cromthebarbarian.com@kenlandgraf6908
Comics That Influence LIVE: Episode 058 | Power Pulp Haul | Heavy Metal & Mothra Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-08-18 | Welcome to Episode 058 of Comics That Influence LIVE—where Kurt Brugel and Jake Jacobs sit down every week to flip through the comics, magazines, and pulp treasures that inspire them as creators.In this episode, we’re diving into a new Power Pulp haul, pulling out some gems that continue to shape our approach to indie comic-making. From the raw imagination of Heavy Metal Magazine to the monster-sized spectacle of Mothra, we’ll talk about how these books spark ideas, influence storytelling, and fuel the creative energy behind Turbo Pit-fighter and beyond.If you’re into comic book history, creative process talk, and seeing what inspires working creators in real time, you’re in the right place.Buy a Copy of Turbo Teaser #2 - PRINT or PDF -kurtbrugel.com/teaser-comics-black-and-white-indie-home-printed/2nd-turbo-pit-fighter-teaser-12-pages-plus-bonus-materialBuy a copy of CROM The Barbarian from cromthebarbarian.com
Indie Comic Book Creator Update Reel 001 - August 11th, 2025 Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-08-11 | Welcome to the Indie Creator Update Reel – a fast-paced spotlight series featuring some of the most exciting voices in independent comics, zines, and visual storytelling. Mike White – keenspotshop.com/collections/mike-white keenspotshop.com/collections/mike-whiteEli Schwab - cosmiclionproductions.comcosmiclionproductions.comAlex Turbin - patreon.com/Alexturbin patreon.com/AlexturbinJason Lego - jasonlego.bigcartel.comjasonlego.bigcartel.comAllen Robinson - instagram.com/allenrobinsonartinstagram.com/allenrobinsonartGeoff Mosse - markosia.com/in-the-valley-of-deathmarkosia.com/in-the-valley-of-death Each creator shares a quick 1-minute update on what they're working on, what’s available now, and what’s coming next. Whether it's a new comic, zine release, art drop, or indie publishing launch, this series is all about celebrating DIY creativity and keeping you connected to the heart of the underground comics scene. Hosted by Turbo Pit-fighter creators Kurt Brugel and Jake Jacobs, the Update Reel brings you behind-the-scenes energy, project announcements, and real-time indie momentum. Subscribe to catch every update and discover your next favorite creator. ?Want to send us your update reel? Reach out at kurtbrugel.com/indie-comic-book-creator-exchange ?New reels drop regularly! Music for Geoff Mosse's reel by AudioCoffee @audiocoffeemusic audiocoffee.net
Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE: Episode 169 | Talking with Alex Turbin about The Duke Story Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-08-11 | Welcome to Episode 169 of Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE—the only comic book podcast where the creators meet every Sunday at 10AM EST to actually make the comic in real time.In this episode, Kurt Brugel and Jake Jacobs are lettering the incredible pages by indie comics legend Ken Landgraf for DOOM Magazine #1: End of the World Anthology.Jake walks through the pacing and story beats while Kurt live-letters the pages, showing how text, placement, and design bring the art to life. This is your inside look at the craft of comic-making—from pencils to inks to final lettering.Whether you’re here to learn, get inspired, or just love gritty post-apocalyptic comics, pull up a seat and watch the process unfold.
Indie Creator Exchange 047 Interviews James Coats | Galaxy Gods Kickstarter & Power Pulp Comics Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-08-04 | Galaxy Gods Kickstarter kickstarter.com/projects/galaxygods/galaxy-gods-2?ref=discovery&term=Galaxy%20Gods&total_hits=11&category_id=250 If you would like to be a guest on the Indie Comic Exchange, please follow this link and fill out the form kurtbrugel.com/indie-comic-book-creator-exchangeJames' Instagram instagram.com/jacoats Power Pulp Comic's Website powerpulpcomics.com James' website dinobeasts.com Honorable Mentions:IC3 / Indie Creator Comic Con indiecomicscreatorcon.comIn this Indie Creator Exchange episode, Kurt and Jake interview James Coats, one half of the Coats Brothers, to explore his comic journey and collaboration with his twin brother, John. James shares early influences like 80s cartoons, Doug Wildey's Johnny Quest, and stop-motion dinosaur films, leading to the creation of DinoBeasts, a prehistoric barbarian comic. He also discusses Ninja IV, inspired by classic ninja cinema, and Galaxy Gods, a cosmic superhero book influenced by Jack Kirby. The brothers’ creative process includes traditional inking and digital coloring, emphasizing speed and spontaneity. James also elaborates on Powerpulp Comics—a creator-driven indie comic distribution collective aimed at bypassing traditional publishing bottlenecks. They discuss the mechanics of distribution, shipping tools like Pirate Ship, and the use of media mail to reduce costs. The conversation highlights the importance of community, self-determination, and keeping the energy and authenticity of underground comics alive.3 Educational Points Made1. Indie Distribution Model: Powerpulp Comics demonstrates how creators can organize grassroots comic distribution without relying on traditional publishing channels like Diamond.2. Comic Creation Workflow: James explains the step-by-step process of making comics traditionally—penciling and inking by hand, scanning, and digitally coloring with Clip Studio Paint.3. Collaborative Storytelling: Insights on how family collaborations (especially between twins) allow for smooth creative synergy and trust, aiding faster comic development.
Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE: Episode 168 | Lettering The Casualties | Ken Landgraf Artwork Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-08-04 | Welcome to Episode 168 of Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE—the only podcast where the comic actually gets made while you watch, every Sunday at 10AM EST!In this episode, Kurt Brugel and Jake Jacobs are live-lettering the gritty and powerful Casualties story—featuring jaw-dropping artwork by legendary indie comics veteran Ken Landgraf (WOLVERINE, MICRONAUTS, Nightcrawler, Rock Comics).Jake breaks down the story’s raw emotional beats, while Kurt refines the visual flow with lettering that ties it all together. Whether you’re here to learn about layout, get inspired, or just love post-apocalyptic action comics—this is your weekly front-row seat to indie comics in the making.
Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE: Episode 167 - From Teaser to Anthology Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-07-28 | Thanks for joining our exclusive live broadcast. Feel free to share your questions and interact with other participants in the chat.
PART 2 Look Inside PowerPulpComics.com: The Future of Indie Comic Distribution | Artist Line-up Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-07-20 | BUY HERE powerpulpcomics.comFOLLOW HERE powerpulp.substack.comThis episode continues the in-depth discussion of Powerpulp Comics, a new collective platform for indie creators to sell and distribute their work more efficiently. Hosts Kurt and Jake, joined by Matt King (creator of Tales to Enlighten), explore the website PowerpulpComics.com, showcasing a wide variety of unique comics from 14 creators. The collective model gives artists full ownership and freedom while centralizing shipping and promotion, reducing shipping costs and increasing visibility. They scroll through and review books like New Sphere, Ninja 4, Dino Beast, and The Baboon, highlighting the art styles, genres, page counts, and inspirations. They also discuss the group’s grassroots growth, use of Substack for newsletters, and media plans to expand awareness. This episode not only promotes the creators but celebrates a model of creative independence and practical distribution, inspiring indie comic creators to collaborate rather than compete.3 Educational Values This Podcast Gives ViewersDistribution Strategies – It introduces creators to alternative, grassroots methods of comic distribution outside mainstream publishers.Creator Autonomy – It teaches the importance of retaining creative control while still benefiting from collective infrastructure.Marketing and Promotion – It shows how tools like Substack, catalogs, and coordinated branding can expand reach and visibility.
PART 1 Look Inside PowerPulpComics.com The Future of Indie Comic Distribution | Promo & Discussion Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-07-13 | BUY HERE powerpulpcomics.com FOLLOW HERE powerpulp.substack.comThis podcast episode spotlights Powerpulp Comics, a self-publisher-led collective of indie comic creators aiming to solve the biggest issue in independent comics—distribution. Hosts Jake and Kurt and guest Matt King (creator of Tales to Enlighten) discuss how 14 creators formed Powerpulp to consolidate shipping, simplify purchasing, and provide retailers and readers a one-stop platform for weird and pulp-style comics. Unlike traditional publishers, each creator maintains ownership and control over their work, while the Coates brothers manage logistics from a central website location. They’ve already reached five indie-friendly comic shops and are working on growing awareness via a website, printed/digital catalogs, and a Substack newsletter. The conversation dives into startup challenges, transparency, shared labor, and the importance of keeping communication and branding unified. The collective is selective but open to growth. The overarching goal? Make indie comics easier to buy, discover, and distribute without sacrificing independence.3 Educational Values for the ViewerUnderstanding Distribution Models: Learn the challenges indie creators face with shipping, retail access, and customer reach.Collective Action in Comics: Gain insights into how collaborative business models function outside traditional publishing.DIY Comic Entrepreneurship: Discover how creators can maintain control, reduce costs, and reach audiences more effectively through decentralized efforts.
Future Airbike Privateers and a Taxed Airspace #indiecomics #postapocalyptic #comicwriter Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-07-07 | doommags.substack.com
Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE! | Episode 166 | Getting Covers Done for Doom Mags Anthology #1! Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-07-07 | LIVE stream of Making Turbo Pit-fighter, an exciting journey into the world of our post-apocalyptic sci-fi comic. Written and penciled by Jake, with inks and storyline support by Kurt, Turbo Pit-fighter explores a gritty, lawless future where survival depends on fighting skill and grit. In this live session, we'll dive into the creative process behind the scenes, talk about our inspirations, and answer your questions about building a comic from the ground up. Don't miss this insider look into the making of an indie comic that's as action-packed as it is visually thrilling! Watch live on YouTube and Instagram.Buy a Copy of Turbo Teaser #2 - PRINT or PDF -kurtbrugel.com/teaser-comics-black-and-white-indie-home-printed/2nd-turbo-pit-fighter-teaser-12-pages-plus-bonus-materialBuy a copy of CROM The Barbarian from cromthebarbarian.com
Is Indie Art Roughness a Strength or a Weakness #indiecomics #postapocalyptic #comicwriter Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-07-06 | doommags.substack.com
Intense Storytelling Rejection, Revenge, and Triumph #indiecomics #postapocalyptic #comicwriter Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-07-05 | doommags.substack.com
Developing Hawkwind Tragedy, Science, and Origin Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-07-04 | doommags.substack.com
Making TURBO Pit-fighter Comic LIVE! | Episode 164 | End of the World Timeline | Elevena 2222 Turbo Pit-fighter Comic 2025-06-23 | LIVE stream of Making Turbo Pit-fighter, an exciting journey into the world of our post-apocalyptic sci-fi comic. Written and penciled by Jake, with inks and storyline support by Kurt, Turbo Pit-fighter explores a gritty, lawless future where survival depends on fighting skill and grit. In this live session, we'll dive into the creative process behind the scenes, talk about our inspirations, and answer your questions about building a comic from the ground up. Don't miss this insider look into the making of an indie comic that's as action-packed as it is visually thrilling! Watch live on YouTube and Instagram.Buy a Copy of Turbo Teaser #2 - PRINT or PDF -kurtbrugel.com/teaser-comics-black-and-white-indie-home-printed/2nd-turbo-pit-fighter-teaser-12-pages-plus-bonus-materialBuy a copy of CROM The Barbarian from cromthebarbarian.com
