Episodes

  • From Punk Art to Cosmic Horror: The Creative World of Dan Henk

    From Punk Art to Cosmic Horror: The Creative World of Dan Henk
    Jun 26 2025
    In this episode of Geek Freaks Interviews, Frank sits down with the multifaceted Dan Henk—an artist, dark fiction writer, and tattoo veteran—to explore a career built on punk rock attitude, bold art, and haunting stories. Dan walks us through his journey from satirical magazine art to becoming a staple in the tattoo and indie horror scenes. He discusses how personal tragedy and health battles shaped his storytelling and gives us a preview of his upcoming anthology The Joke is on Mankind. Along the way, he shares what it takes to blend visual art and fiction, how community plays a role in independent publishing, and what his future book plans involve—including alien invasions and guerrilla warfare inspired by his military father.Timestamps and Topics:00:00 Introduction to Dan Henk00:36 Dan’s daily creative routine01:13 Early work in punk magazines and political cartoons02:54 Transition to book covers and comics04:04 Tattoo career and NYC hustle05:08 Surviving personal loss and illness05:32 Shift toward dark fiction and The Black Seas of Infinity07:28 Artistic influences and the power of story08:53 How art inspires writing (and vice versa)10:01 How personal trauma shaped Dan’s writing urgency11:13 Preview of new anthology The Joke is on Mankind13:18 On curating diverse voices in indie horror14:38 Dan’s podcast and building a creative network15:43 Newsletter and staying connected with fans16:39 Future writing plans: Alien invasions and father-son dynamicsKey Takeaways:Dan Henk is an artist who channels his life experiences—punk roots, personal loss, and visual storytelling—into dark, compelling fiction.His creative process intertwines art and writing, often one inspiring the other.His new anthology The Joke is on Mankind draws influence from The Outer Limits and Lovecraftian horror with a focus on story over shock.Dan curates a balanced mix of indie and mainstream voices, creating space for underrepresented yet talented creators.He emphasizes authenticity over trend, aiming for lasting impact with each project.Future projects explore themes of societal collapse and alien invasions, merging real-world military insight with speculative fiction.Quotes:"I don’t care what genre it is—as long as it tells a strong story.""After Monica passed, I realized—I need to get these stories out now.""Art inspires my writing and writing brings new life to my art. They feed each other constantly.""You can talk about an idea forever, but at some point, you just have to make it real."Call to Action:If you enjoyed this conversation with Dan Henk, don’t forget to subscribe to Geek Freaks Interviews on your favorite podcast app. Leave us a review and share this episode with your fellow horror fans and creatives using the hashtag #GeekFreaksInterviews. For all updates and episode archives, head to GeekFreaksPodcast.com.Links and Resources:Dan Henk’s website and newsletter: danhenk.comPreorder The Joke is on Mankind (releasing late June)Podcast news source: GeekFreaksPodcast.comFollow Us:Instagram: @geekfreakspodcastTwitter: @geekfreakspodThreads: @geekfreakspodcastFacebook: Geek Freaks PodcastPatreon: Geek Freaks PatreonListener Questions:Have a question for our next guest or want to suggest someone to be interviewed? Message us on social or visit our site to drop us a line!Apple Podcast Tags:Dan Henk, tattoo artist, horror fiction, indie publishing, punk art, dark fiction, cosmic horror, art and writing, creative process, Geek Freaks Interviews
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    19 mins
  • Twisted Holidays and Galactic Chaos: Inside the Wild Worlds of Scott Wilke

    Twisted Holidays and Galactic Chaos: Inside the Wild Worlds of Scott Wilke
    Jun 12 2025
    In this episode of Geek Freaks, Frank sits down once again with comic writer Scott Wilke to talk about his latest installment in the Periwinkle Saga—Frost. Scott reveals the dark holiday-themed universe he's building with gritty one-shots like Cupid and Frost, blending inspiration from John Wick, Pulp Fiction, and classic holiday lore. He also shares what’s coming next in the saga (O’Hare), explores the storytelling challenges of single-issue comics, and teases other upcoming Bad Bug projects including Junk World, Murder Mary, and Xeno Geist. This one’s a must-listen for indie comic fans and anyone who loves morally complex heroes.Timestamps and Topics:00:00 Introduction and Scott’s return00:29 The origin and tone of Frost01:34 John Wick vibes and Arturo Meza’s vital role02:16 Expansion plans for the Periwinkle universe03:35 The mob power vacuum behind the Periwinkle stories04:07 Why holiday mythology makes a great sandbox05:13 Morally gray characters and relatability06:52 The human side of Jack Frost and father-son dynamics08:09 How Scott collaborates with artist Arturo09:43 Trusting the artist to elevate the vision12:09 Writing method and storyboarding for comics13:35 Film influences in structure and tone15:28 Why Periwinkle is still a must-read16:07 Preview of upcoming titles: Junk World, Murder Mary, Xeno Geist20:07 New artistic collaborations and creative challenges22:04 Where to follow Scott online23:10 Kickstarter's evolving role in indie comics25:10 Passion over profit and creative freedom25:47 If Scott could write for the Big Two: Superman or Punisher?27:34 Final thoughts and where to start in the Periwinkle SagaKey Takeaways:Frost is a gritty, John Wick-style one-shot starring Jack Frost as a hitman in a mythological mob war.The Periwinkle Saga is building toward crossover stories, but each one-shot can be enjoyed on its own.Artist Arturo Meza plays a huge role in maintaining the cohesive tone and world-building.Scott uses film structure and storyboard planning to craft compact, character-driven narratives.New titles like Junk World and Murder Mary reflect Scott’s range—from space smuggling to fourth-wall-breaking mayhem.Kickstarter provides unmatched creative freedom and direct reader engagement for indie creators.Despite writing morally gray stories, Scott's dream characters to write include Superman and Punisher.Quotes:🗯️ "Frost is my love letter to John Wick... He’s not just a killer—he’s trying to break free of his father’s shadow."🗯️ "Each one-shot tells its own story, but for those following closely, the saga is building toward something much bigger."🗯️ "Arturo learned English through Tarantino movies—so our comics were always going to be wild."🗯️ "Kickstarter is where indie comics thrive. It’s not about profit—it’s about passion and storytelling."Call to Action:Love comics with a gritty twist and deep mythology? Subscribe to Geek Freaks and don’t forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Share this episode with fellow comic lovers using #GeekFreaksPodcast and let us know which Periwinkle character you want to see return!Links and Resources:🔗 GeekFreaksPodcast.com — Source of all our news and updates📖 Follow Scott on Instagram: @scottwilke24🎯 Back his comics on Kickstarter and find his work via Bad Bug MediaFollow Us:📲 Facebook: facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcast📲 Threads: @geekfreakspodcast📲 Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast📲 Twitter: @geekfreakspod📲 Patreon: patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcastListener Questions:Have a question for Scott or want us to explore a specific indie comic on the next episode? DM us or email through GeekFreaksPodcast.com!Apple Podcast Tags:Scott Wilke, Periwinkle Saga, Frost Comic, Indie Comics, Bad Bug Media, Kickstarter Comics, Comic Book Writer, Comic Book Interview, John Wick Inspired Comics, Holiday Comic Universe, Geek Culture
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    28 mins
  • Comics, Classrooms, and Captain America: Teaching Through Fandom with Mark Domeier

    Comics, Classrooms, and Captain America: Teaching Through Fandom with Mark Domeier
    Jun 5 2025
    In this episode of Geek Freaks Interviews, Frank is joined by Mark Domeier, a passionate middle school English teacher from Minnesota who uses comic books and pop culture to bring reading and writing to life for his students. With a collection of over 14,000 comics, Mark shares how he leverages his love for superheroes and stories like Star Wars, The Outsiders, and even The Mandalorian to make literature relevant and fun. We explore how comic books support reading comprehension, creativity, and engagement, and how fandom can help students find their voice in writing. Whether you're an educator, comic lover, or lifelong geek, this episode is full of inspiration.Timestamps and Topics:00:00 – Intro and welcome00:22 – Mark’s comic collection and using comics in education01:08 – Visual storytelling and reading comprehension02:53 – Mark’s first comic subscription and lifelong love of Spider-Man04:22 – From Marvel to DC: Expanding fandom05:59 – What inspired Mark to become a teacher07:07 – Encouraging reading through comics and creative assignments08:01 – Teaching with Star Wars in the classroom09:57 – Using essays to analyze Star Wars and develop critical thinking11:29 – Comics in lessons: Drawing stories, analyzing narratives13:17 – Creative final projects: Comic books, screenplays, and songs16:08 – Fighting for creativity in the age of AI18:23 – Middle school creativity vs. deeper literary structures21:08 – MCU, Mandalorian, and how current media inspires students23:37 – From the classroom to pop culture essays and fandom discussion25:01 – Connecting WWII and Star Wars in teaching Anne Frank26:32 – Fandoms showing students what makes a good person29:07 – Using sports fandom in class to build engagement30:55 – Funko Pops, Stephen King, and knowing your students33:02 – Meeting students where they are and guiding them forward35:40 – Advice for teachers using fandom in education38:29 – Closing thoughts and gratitudeKey Takeaways:Comics can help students visualize and understand stories, boosting comprehension and engagement.Students are more likely to connect with material when they see their interests and strengths reflected in it.Pop culture like Star Wars and the MCU can be tools for teaching analysis, persuasive writing, and historical parallels.Offering students options in how they express learning—whether through art, comics, or music—promotes creativity.Teachers must adapt to their students’ learning styles and passions, especially in a world increasingly impacted by AI.Fandom isn’t just entertainment—it’s a pathway to deeper learning and connection.Memorable Quotes:“If you read 20 or 25 comic books, that’s the same as reading a novel.”“Every student should read The Outsiders. I’ve taught it almost every year of my career.”“I’m just going to go out kicking and screaming, fighting to make kids be creative.”“I remember being a kid and wishing that I could be bitten by a radioactive spider.”Call to Action:If you loved this episode, subscribe to Geek Freaks Interviews on your favorite podcast app. Leave us a review, share the episode with your fellow educators and comic fans, and tag us with your thoughts using #GeekFreaksPod!Links and Resources:🌐 GeekFreaksPodcast.com — Source for all our news and episodesFollow Us:📱 Facebook: facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcast📸 Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast🐦 Twitter: @geekfreakspod💬 Threads: @geekfreakspodcast🎧 Patreon: patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcastListener Questions:Have a question for Mark or thoughts on using comics in the classroom? Send them our way and we might include them in a future episode!Apple Podcast Tags:comics, education, Star Wars, Marvel, teaching strategies, pop culture in school, middle school reading, student creativity, graphic novels in education, Geek Freaks Interviews
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    41 mins
  • Barry Lyga on Outsiders, Origins, and Writing Superheroes for the Page

    Barry Lyga on Outsiders, Origins, and Writing Superheroes for the Page
    May 29 2025
    In this episode of Geek Freaks Interviews, Frank sits down with acclaimed author Barry Lyga to explore his multifaceted writing career spanning comics, YA thrillers, and prose adaptations of iconic superhero stories. Barry opens up about his journey from comics to novels, his work on the I Hunt Killers trilogy, how he crafted Thanos' backstory for Marvel Studios, and what it was like building an alternate DC Universe through The Flash book series. From creating Free Comic Book Day to writing some of the darkest scenes of his career, Barry brings insight, humor, and a deep love for the medium.Timestamps and Topics:00:00 Intro and Barry Lyga’s career overview00:32 From comics to novels: The origin of Fanboy and Goth Girl02:07 Common theme: Writing from the outsider’s perspective03:37 Writing Wolverine: Worst Day Ever and the young outsider angle04:24 How comics shaped his prose style and genre-blending06:27 Switching genres with I Hunt Killers08:11 Making dark characters likable09:15 Challenges writing from a new POV and writing Superman11:15 Behind the scenes of The Flash tie-in novels14:17 Using obscure DC characters like Ambush Bug18:14 Capturing Barry Allen’s voice and injecting science20:52 Writing Thanos: Titan Consumed for the MCU23:00 The challenge of creating Thanos without key Marvel characters27:17 Matching the tone of Infinity War without seeing it28:43 Thanos’ logic and why doubling resources wouldn't work29:32 The origin of Free Comic Book Day33:11 Modern comic book accessibility and barriers35:53 The limits of digital comics today38:16 The release of Before the Hunt and going indie40:31 Final thoughts and where to find Barry’s booksKey Takeaways:Barry Lyga’s stories consistently center around outsiders, a reflection of his own childhood.His novel Wolverine: Worst Day Ever explores being an outsider among outsiders.Writing Thanos: Titan Consumed required building a full backstory that matched the MCU without relying on comic continuity.The Flash book series was set in an alternate timeline to allow more creative freedom while respecting CW’s canon.Free Comic Book Day began as a brainstorm to unite the comic book industry and increase visibility for local shops.Barry's newest release, Before the Hunt, is a self-published anthology of prequel stories to I Hunt Killers.Memorable Quotes:“I think outsiders typically have a really interesting perspective on what’s going on.”“Creation is harder than destruction—that’s why Thanos didn’t double resources.”“You don’t have to be one kind of writer. It’s all about the story.”“I almost jumped out of my seat when I saw Infinity War. I thought, that’s my Thanos.”“Stop recommending Watchmen to new readers.”Call to Action:Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share the podcast using #GeekFreaksPod. Help us grow the show and bring on more amazing guests like Barry Lyga!Links and Resources:🔗 GeekFreaksPodcast.com – Your source for all the news we discuss📖 BarryLyga.com – See Barry’s full body of work📘 Before the Hunt – Order Barry’s latest release nowFollow Us:Instagram: @geekfreakspodcastTwitter: @geekfreakspodThreads: @geekfreakspodcastFacebook: facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcastPatreon: patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcastListener Questions:Got a question for our next guest or a topic you want covered? Message us on any platform or email contact@geekfreakspodcast.com.Apple Podcast Tags:Barry Lyga, I Hunt Killers, Thanos Titan Consumed, Wolverine Worst Day Ever, The Flash CW, comic book adaptations, superhero novels, writing tips, Marvel books, DC Universe books, Free Comic Book Day
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    41 mins
  • Worldbuilding, Warriors, and Wry Humor: Richard Sparks on 'New Rock New Roll' and the Fantasy Beyond

    Worldbuilding, Warriors, and Wry Humor: Richard Sparks on 'New Rock New Roll' and the Fantasy Beyond
    May 22 2025
    In this episode of Geek Freaks Interviews, Frank sits down with Richard Sparks, writer of the epic fantasy series New Rock New Roll, New Rock New Realm, and the upcoming New Rock New Rules. Richard, a seasoned screenwriter turned novelist, shares how his background in gaming and storytelling led him to build a world where RPG avatars become real. From crafting immersive friendships to battling ogres with orcs, Richard discusses the challenges of writing layered adventures and how great story structure is the foundation of it all. We also explore his creative process, his Tolkien influence, and the exciting potential for a film or series adaptation.Timestamps and Topics:00:00 Introduction to Richard Sparks and the New Rock series00:18 How gaming inspired the novels00:56 Writing the first book in two months01:40 The main characters and their transformation into avatars02:45 Orcs, magic, and humorous worldbuilding03:28 Expanding the world beyond the original story04:06 Upcoming third book and Halloween launch05:11 How the characters evolve beyond their real-life players06:00 Building fantasy stories using game mechanics and puzzles07:12 Mysteries and reader immersion08:19 Puzzles, prophecies, and foreshadowing in book three09:48 Reader and character discovery unfolding together10:33 Early love for Tolkien and fantasy inspiration12:01 Tolkien’s writing habits and influence on Sparks13:28 The film rights and hopes for adaptation15:26 Lessons from decades of screenwriting17:20 From showing to telling—shifting from script to novel19:32 Layering clues for long-term story payoffs21:04 Letting characters dictate their journey22:24 Scaling stories from epic to personal24:00 Narrative structure and balancing multiple storylines26:16 Lessons from directing and acting workshops30:00 Overcoming rejection and growing as a storyteller33:00 Adventures in publishing, writing, and surviving the industry36:15 Pranks, ogres, and organic character moments39:00 Planning ahead while leaving room for surprises40:30 The illusionist's trick—crafting a worthy ending41:02 Final thoughts and where to get the booksKey Takeaways:New Rock New Roll began as a fantasy inspired by online gaming but evolved into a layered, character-driven series with real emotional depth.Richard emphasizes the importance of story structure, learned from his decades as a screenwriter and director.Humor, mystery, and friendship are core pillars of the New Rock world.Writing ahead, knowing your ending, and embracing rewrites are essential to strong fantasy storytelling.Film and TV adaptations are in early development, with industry interest in building a new fantasy franchise from Sparks’ world.Tolkien’s influence runs deep, and Sparks shares personal connections and insights into the master’s creative legacy.Quotes:“You’ve got to learn how to get out of your own way as a writer.”“The readers deserve to be put on an armchair ride and given a good adventure.”“All the best stories are the same but different.”“The times when you’re not writing are the ones that hurt.”“You’re the illusionist. The whole time, you’ve got them looking one way while you’re building something else.”Links and Resources:📘 Visit GeekFreaksPodcast.com for all the latest episodes, articles, and news📚 Check out Richard Sparks’ books at RichardSparks.com🎉 Learn more about the upcoming launch at the World Fantasy ConventionFollow Us:Facebook: facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcastInstagram: @geekfreakspodcastThreads: @geekfreakspodcastPatreon: patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcastTwitter: twitter.com/geekfreakspodApple Podcast Tags:fantasy fiction, RPG novels, geek culture, author interview, Tolkien inspiration, writing advice, book series, screenwriting, story structure, podcast interview, fantasy author, creative writing, Geek Freaks
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    43 mins
  • From Hallmark to Thrillers: Caitlin Delaney on Building Canada’s Film Industry and Uplifting the Next Generation

    From Hallmark to Thrillers: Caitlin Delaney on Building Canada’s Film Industry and Uplifting the Next Generation
    May 20 2025
    In this episode of Geek Freaks Interviews, Frank sits down with powerhouse Canadian producer Caitlin Delaney. With over 90 films under her belt, Caitlin opens up about her start in Hallmark-style holiday films and her evolution into producing larger thrillers and studio features. She also shares how she’s paying it forward with her new mentorship platform, Up Light Academy, where she’s shaping the next generation of film professionals. This is a must-listen for aspiring filmmakers, indie creators, and anyone curious about how the industry really works behind the scenes.Timestamps and Topics:00:00 – Intro and Caitlin’s current work in film production00:58 – What a service producer does and Caitlin’s early days in Christmas films02:00 – Launching Up Light Academy: training the next generation of filmmakers03:30 – Caitlin’s own path from theater kid to producer04:50 – Challenges breaking into acting and shifting to behind the camera06:05 – Choosing projects, genre shifts, and following market trends07:45 – The pressure of being a production hub and managing multiple teams09:00 – Caitlin’s passion project on human trafficking10:08 – The importance of industry relationships and collaboration11:45 – Streaming’s influence on low-budget, high-return holiday content13:50 – Why story still matters most, not budget15:44 – The rise of character-driven drama in streaming17:10 – Pitching lessons: it’s about worldbuilding and story, not logistics18:11 – Caitlin’s admiration for actor Walton Goggins20:00 – Why mentorship matters more than ever21:20 – Surprising lessons about the business of film23:00 – Teaching respect between producers and creatives24:30 – How Caitlin teaches communication with large crews25:10 – Closing and where to find Caitlin onlineKey Takeaways:Caitlin’s career began in holiday films but now spans thrillers, studio features, and independent theatrical releases.As a service producer, she manages every physical part of a production—from talent deals to post-production.Her Up Light Academy offers free foundational video lessons and live weekly mentorship from industry professionals.Mentorship shortens the learning curve and provides real-world insight that no classroom can replicate.In modern filmmaking, every creator needs to understand producing and marketing.The industry is trending toward character-driven stories, with less emphasis on big-budget spectacle.Success in film still hinges on having a good story and being able to clearly articulate it.Caitlin highlights the value of collaboration, and the evolving role of streamers in creating community-driven content.Quotes:🎙️ “We just take years of onsite experience, crunch it down into 30 videos, and away you go.”🎙️ “You’re not going to make a movie without money. And you’re not going to spend the money without filmmakers.”🎙️ “Mentorship can shave off years of learning. But I’m still being mentored myself—I just spent four hours learning TikTok.”🎙️ “Story is what people care about. Not budget. Not logistics. If you don’t have a good story, you’ve lost them.”Call to Action:Love what you heard? Make sure to subscribe, rate, and review Geek Freaks Interviews wherever you get your podcasts. Share this episode with your fellow film enthusiasts and use #GeekFreaksPod to join the conversation online.Links and Resources:🔗 Visit GeekFreaksPodcast.com — your source for all things geek and film industry news.🔗 Learn more about Caitlin Delaney’s Up Light Academy.Follow Us:📱 Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast📱 Twitter: @geekfreakspod📱 Threads: @geekfreakspodcast📱 Facebook: Geek Freaks Podcast💬 Patreon: Support usListener Questions:Have a question for Caitlin or want to learn more about breaking into the film industry? Message us on social or email us via the website and we’ll feature your question in a future episode.
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    26 mins
  • Building a Free Planet: Aubrey Sitterson on Revolution, Freedom, and Sci-Fi Worldbuilding

    Building a Free Planet: Aubrey Sitterson on Revolution, Freedom, and Sci-Fi Worldbuilding
    May 7 2025
    In this compelling episode of Geek Freaks, Frank sits down with writer Aubrey Sitterson to discuss Free Planet, a new sci-fi epic from Image Comics. Aubrey dives deep into the book’s core themes of freedom, discipline, and revolution, sharing the research and inspiration behind his sprawling geopolitical space opera. From unreliable narrators and anthropological influences to the vital contributions of collaborators like artist Jed Dougherty, letterer Taylor Esposito, and colorist Vittorio Astone, this conversation unpacks how Free Planet became one of the most ambitious and layered comics of the year.Timestamps and Topics:00:00 – Introduction and welcome to Aubrey Sitterson00:19 – What is Free Planet? A saga meets East of West01:03 – The surprising popularity of Talon02:08 – The origins of Free Planet and its political lens04:30 – Revolutionary history and real-world inspirations06:02 – Exploring what freedom really means07:53 – Visual storytelling: spreads, charts, and page design09:46 – Conflict, compromise, and food shortages11:09 – The comic as literature and object12:30 – Sci-fi inspirations: Ursula K. Le Guin, Dune, and more14:17 – Research over aesthetics: grounding the story in truth16:29 – The balance between interpersonal drama and grand politics18:06 – How character dynamics reflect ideological tension20:14 – Page-by-page scripting and Jed’s visual genius22:34 – Weapon design, faction identity, and world-building layers24:49 – Collaborative storytelling and artistic contributions25:54 – Lettering innovations and layered voice design28:01 – Dr. August Ferrucci and the historical narration30:00 – On bias, narration, and the illusion of neutrality31:01 – Bonus material and hand-painted covers34:11 – Liefeld-inspired layouts and homage as design36:15 – The difference between mimicry and foundational homage39:07 – Talon and Basil’s contrasting voices in lettering42:00 – Robert Kirkman’s blurb and industry recognition43:01 – Print versus digital: Why Free Planet demands paperKey Takeaways:Free Planet explores the complexities of freedom, revolution, and post-war society through a sci-fi lens.Aubrey Sitterson researched real-world revolutions, anthropology, and political theory to shape the book’s nuanced world.The comic is intentionally designed as a print-first experience, leveraging double-page spreads, infographics, and layered visual storytelling.Artist Jed Dougherty's page compositions elevate the script, and his designs actively shape the story's evolution.The lettering by Taylor Esposito adds character distinction and thematic nuance, including subtle cues like font shifts and balloon changes.Dr. August Ferrucci’s backmatter essays expand the story’s lore, offering unreliable but informative narration akin to historical texts.Free Planet is “actively hostile” to digital—intended for readers who want to sit, think, and truly absorb a comic.Quotes:“It’s not just about what freedom is—but what we’re willing to sacrifice for it.” – Aubrey Sitterson“There’s not another comic on the rack like this.” – Frank“Talon was so popular early on that I rewrote the outline to give him more of the spotlight.” – Aubrey“We wanted Free Planet to be both art and literature.” – Aubrey“The narration is factual—but even neutrality is a choice.” – AubreyCall to Action:If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to Geek Freaks on your favorite podcast app, leave a review, and share it with fellow comic fans using #GeekFreaksPodcast. Help us spotlight indie creators pushing the boundaries of storytelling.Links and Resources:Visit GeekFreaksPodcast.com for all news and updates featured in this episodeLearn more about Free Planet from Image Comics and grab it at your local comic shop on May 7
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    46 mins
  • Building Worlds After Eden: Rich Davis on 'Angel/Hunter' and the Future of Indie Comics

    Building Worlds After Eden: Rich Davis on 'Angel/Hunter' and the Future of Indie Comics
    Apr 17 2025
    In this episode of Geek Freaks, Frank sits down with acclaimed horror comic writer Rich Davis to explore his newest dark fantasy project Angel Hunter. From its origins as a joke to a full-fledged manga-inspired saga, Rich opens up about the creative process, his love for horror, and the deep personal influences behind his storytelling. The conversation covers everything from kaiju and fallen angels to the future of comic publishing—and even includes a heartfelt tangent about rescued dogs. Whether you're a comic fan, aspiring writer, or lover of apocalyptic fantasy, this episode is packed with insight, passion, and humor.Timestamps and Topics:00:00 Welcome and intro with Rich Davis00:22 What is Angel Hunter?01:01 The surprising origins of the idea02:19 Convincing his collaborator Les to embrace manga style03:10 Dobby the rescue dog story04:24 From stage to screen to comics: Rich’s path through storytelling05:44 How Cult of Dracula was born07:29 Rich’s lifelong love of horror08:33 Nightmares as creative fuel09:48 Religious roots and mythological influences behind Angel Hunter11:10 How Rich respects religion in fantasy writing12:18 “Write what you know” and grounding fantasy in real emotion14:12 Spotlight on character Shiri Mojo16:00 The emotional weight behind character development17:54 Why Angel Hunter will be a multi-volume epic19:00 Why Rich is avoiding floppies and embracing the trade format21:00 Pricing, format decisions, and Kickstarter plans23:45 Industry trends: Trades vs floppies in comic book retail25:00 The creative brotherhood between Rich and Les25:43 Final thoughts and how to support Angel Hunter via KickstarterKey Takeaways:Angel Hunter blends manga-style art with Western storytelling, built on a foundation of religious mythology and kaiju battles.Rich’s storytelling is deeply influenced by personal experiences, including vivid childhood nightmares and a strong religious upbringing.He writes from a place of emotional truth, grounding fantasy in human emotion like fear, love, and loss.Floppies are no longer sustainable in indie comics—Angel Hunter will launch as full-volume trades to better serve readers.Rich and artist Les form a creative duo with a shared vision and dedication that drives their projects.Kickstarter is the primary launchpad for Angel Hunter, with volume one targeting an affordable price point despite high production quality.Memorable Quotes:“Everything that I write comes from a nightmare… Once you name the monster, the monster’s not scary anymore.” – Rich Davis“I treat the Bible, the Talmud, and the Quran like mythology—because I’m not preaching, I’m storytelling.” – Rich Davis“Floppies are dead. But give someone a $9.99 Image trade, and they’ll grab three.” – Rich Davis“Shiri Mojo… she's an amazing character—and also, yes, she's a hot blonde anime chick. We’re not going to pretend that’s not a draw.” – Rich Davis“Write what you know. I used to hate that phrase. Now I understand it’s how you put heart into your fantasy.” – Rich DavisCall to Action:Love discovering new worlds? Support Angel Hunter on Kickstarter and be part of a bold new vision in comics. Be sure to follow, rate, and review Geek Freaks wherever you listen to podcasts. Share your thoughts on today’s episode with #GeekFreaksPodcast.Links and Resources:🌐 GeekFreaksPodcast.com – Your source for all news covered in our episodes📢 Angel Hunter Kickstarter – https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/angelhunter/angel-hunter Follow Us:📲 Instagram: @geekfreakspodcast📘 Facebook: facebook.com/thegeekfreakspodcast🐦 Twitter: twitter.com/geekfreakspod🧵 Threads: @geekfreakspodcast💖 Patreon: patreon.com/GeekFreakspodcastApple Podcast Tags:comics, indie comics, horror comics, Rich Davis, Angel Hunter, dark fantasy, manga, kaiju, comic book interview, writing process, Kickstarter comics, Cult of Dracula, Nephilim, apocrypha, comic book podcast, storytelling, graphic novels
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    26 mins