Iron Age Marketing

Welcome to Episode 005. Stephanie Bloom runs Walk With Me Conversations - a podcast that's absolutely not about small talk. She's going into season three with about 130 guests under her belt, and she just published a book today. (Literally today, as we're recording this.) Here's what makes Stephanie's story different: She grew up downwind of a nuclear munitions plant that didn't dispose of waste properly. Streams, creeks, playgrounds, flower beds - all contaminated. Families succumbing to illness. Brain tumors. Sudden death. She lost nearly three dozen people in her life to suicide. That's not a light origin story for a business podcast. But here's the thing - people who've actually dealt with and resolved their big stuff come out the other side with wisdom and a wicked sense of humor. That's what Stephanie discovered after 130 conversations. Her format: First 15 minutes, childhood and family structure. Next 15, the big trauma or theme. Next 15, how they overcame it and what they learned. Last 15, they share whatever they want - their content, their work, their way to connect. Here's what we dig into: The unexpected business impact. Stephanie started the podcast and landed a 35-hour-a-week sales role a few months later. Podcasting prepared her for being on video constantly. Now it's second nature. The dopamine hit of novelty. Her brain is wired so that every new conversation gives her a dopamine reward. That's what keeps her coming back for 130+ episodes. The worldview expansion. She talks to people worldwide. Struggles vary from culture to culture. It's broadened her perspective in ways she couldn't have predicted. Single serving friends. If you know Fight Club, you know the reference. One opportunity with each guest. She's not talking about the weather - she wants to know what moved them, what changed them, what they struggled through and overcame. From podcast to book. Time and time again, different methods worked for different people. Healing isn't linear or one-size-fits-all. The book isn't recycled content - it's a jumping off point, backed by studies and clinical trials, accessible for both laypeople and professionals. The financial reality. It pays the mortgage. Not retirement money, but better than nothing. And when you're doing work that matters to you, that's enough to keep going. What stuck with me: Stephanie doesn't get starstruck easily, but she's interviewed doctors, lawyers, paraplegics, people who've been set on fire. What they've overcome amazes her every single time. She's finally at the point where she feels it's good enough to scale. Three years in, 130 guests, ironclad processes - now she's ready to grow. Oh, and she owns like 80 URLs but doesn't have one for the book yet. That's the marketing conversation we need to have. Website Referenced: WalkWithMeConversations.com

Welcome to Episode 003 Dave Gulas runs a logistics company. Third-party fulfillment, warehousing, transportation - the kind of business you'd never guess could use a podcast. That's exactly why I wanted to talk to him. Dave's the president and co-founder of EZDC 3PL. When he started his founder journey, the biggest help came from conversations with other entrepreneurs going through the same thing. So he thought: what if those conversations were public? The audience benefits, the guest gets exposure, and it creates evergreen content. From idea to first published episode? Less than 30 days. No equipment. No background. Just started. Two years later, his show Beyond Fulfillment is ranked in the top 2% globally with over 200 episodes. He went from a 5% acceptance rate (asking 20 people for every yes) to having a waiting list of 5-10 people weekly asking to be on. Here's what we dig into: The logistics puzzle. In an industry with 10,000+ faceless, nameless three PLs, having the founder out there interviewing successful entrepreneurs and providing value changes everything. When your clients are trusting you with their entire inventory - their livelihood - that visibility builds credibility before you ever have a sales conversation. The digital handshake. People know, like, and trust you before you've done any work. That parasocial relationship puts you three steps ahead in sales because the trust is already built. Broad beats narrow. Dave interviews founders across all industries - pre-launch to multiple exits. The best business lessons often come from industries you'd never expect. You don't have to be in the same space to learn something valuable. The bond of storytelling. Everyone wants to be heard. When guests share their journey - the dark nights, the failures, the pivots - something happens. Dave's had guests tell stories they've never shared on any other podcast. That creates a friendship that lasts beyond the episode. Celebrate your own progress. One of the best lessons from 200+ conversations: don't compare yourself to someone 20 steps ahead on social media. Stories of people going to the depths of despair and coming back through perseverance and resilience - those hit different than Instagram highlights. The messenger matters as much as the message. Clichés are clichés because they're true. But 30 people can tell you the same thing, and only one will make it stick because that's the person you resonate with. What stuck with me: Dave's the last person you'd expect to start a podcast. No knowledge, no equipment, no background. Just started. Kept doing it. The world's a mucky place sometimes. Podcasting builds relationships that leave you walking away thinking "that was an awesome person, my life is enriched for knowing them." That positivity compounds. Want to check out what Dave's doing? Beyond Fulfillment is available everywhere podcasts live. Website Referenced: Beyond Fulfillment Podcast & EZDC 3PL @ https://davegulas.com/

Welcome to the reboot. After two years talking to authors, I'm shifting Iron Age Marketing toward the people I actually want to work with: coaches, creatives, and business owners using podcasting to build authority and generate real leads. And what better way to kick off Season 2 than by bringing on the competition? Vince Quinn runs SBX Productions. He does exactly what I do - podcast production for small businesses. Sports talk radio background, national shows, the whole nine yards. Meanwhile, I come from music, Dungeons & Dragons, and Magic: The Gathering. We could not be more different. And that's exactly the point. The word gets overused, but there's no escaping it right now: authenticity. It's the only thing that matters when you can't compete with Pepsi's billion-dollar advertising budget. When Vince talks sports radio, my eyes glaze over. When I mention Magic: The Gathering, he's probably thinking "what kind of weird person does the exact same job I do?" But that's why we both have businesses. My people aren't his people. His background attracts a completely different client than mine does. Here's what we dig into: The signal to noise ratio. The best thing podcasting gives you is the ability to put out an honest signal. Not the polished corporate BS. Not the Walmart version of your personality. The real you, with all the nuances and failures and things that make you human. Why pop music is designed to make you like it. Heavy rotation triggers familiarity in your brain. Familiarity breeds fondness. That's the Pepsi model - play it until people accept it. But when you're a small business? You can't afford that. You need the 10,000 true fans who find you authentic and stick around forever. The depth problem. Most people aren't pushed to examine why they think what they think. Vince's example: you need to explain what the letter A is in detail when you're a true expert. The most basic thing to you is mind-blowing for someone else. Marketing has flipped. The old model was surface-level - smile, wave, sell, move on. That only works when you have a war chest. Now? You need to be everywhere organically. TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify. The only way to cut through is genuine voice. Both of us came from dying industries. Radio was hemorrhaging jobs when we got into it. We both saw the writing on the wall and jumped into something we barely understood - running an actual business. Five years later? The podcast production space is getting crowded because more people see the value. But there's room for all of us because we're all attracting different clients based on who we actually are. If you have any personality and willingness to market yourself, saying no to podcasting is nuts. Want to check out what Vince is doing? FreePodcastHelp.com - best URL I've ever seen. Otherwise, welcome to Season 2. Let's build something real. Website Referenced: FreePodcastHelp.com

In today's episode of Iron Age Marketing, I talk to C S Johnson, genre-defying novelist of multiple young adult series'. Let's Meet Iron Age Creator C S Johnson C. S. Johnson is the award-winning, genre-hopping author of several novels, including young adult sci-fi and fantasy adventures such as the Starlight Chronicles series, the Once Upon a Princess saga, and the Divine Space Pirates trilogy. With a gift for sarcasm and an apologetic heart, she currently lives in Atlanta with her family. Navigating Indie Publishing with Author C. S. Johnson In this first of three segments of episode 50 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P talks with guest C. S. Johnson as she shares her extensive experience in writing, discussing her journey from vanity press beginnings in 2007 to crafting a vast collection of 40 books and multiple audiobooks. She delves into her strategies for maintaining creative control, her perspectives on traditional versus indie publishing, and the importance of genres in making money as a writer. The conversation also touches on balancing being a homeschool mom with writing, the challenges of staying disciplined, and the need for hopeful characters in fiction. Don't miss insights into her favorite genres, particularly romance, and her views on the evolving landscape of modern storytelling. The Power of Independent Writing & Crowdfunding: A Conversation on Creativity In this second of three segments of episode 50 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P & author C S Johnson discuss the significance of the "Iron Age" ethos coined by RazörFist and how it benefits all writers, regardless of political leanings. The dialogue touches upon the downsides of the 'story by committee' approach and why individual creativity matters. The conversation highlights Brandon Sanderson's remarkable Kickstarter success, underscoring the potential of self-publishing. They delve into the importance of character connection in storytelling and the emerging popularity of graphic novels among younger readers. The discussion wraps up with insights on the critical role of family support and the value of investing in one's creative vision, despite the associated financial risks. Navigating Your First Book Release: Insights for Aspiring Authors In this third and final segment of episode 50 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P discusses with guest C S Johnson her advice for authors who are gearing up to release their first book. They discuss common pitfalls to avoid, such as lack of passion and poor character development, emphasizing the importance of writing what you believe in. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by new authors, comparisons with established names like Stephen King, and the significance of creating relatable protagonists. The speaker also reflects on their own journey, including lessons learned from their initial publication and the influence of cultural phenomena like Marvel and Harry Potter on their writing. The discussion concludes with thoughts on staying true to oneself and engaging with social media in the post-COVID era. Hopefully, today's episode with C S Johnson serves as both inspiration and education in your own journey to bring your creation to the world. C S Johnson Resources & Extra Media https://www.csjohnson.me https://www.substack.com/@writercsjohnson https://www.x.com/writercsjohnson https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/writercsjohnson/slumbering-the-starlight-chronicles-1-the-graphic-novel Shill Need help connecting with or growing your audience for your book, comic, TTRPG, or other creative endeavor? Check out Nicky P @ ironagemarketing.com

In today's episode of Iron Age Marketing, I talk to Hannah Parry, a trained pediatric nurse and thriller writer. Let's Meet Iron Age Creator Hannah Parry Hannah Parry trained as a pediatric nurse and then did a master's in creative writing at Birkbeck College, University of London. She has had four short stories published. Farrukh and the Matchmaker made the longlist of the BBC Short Story Award 2021. The Chrysalis was awarded a Pushcart Prize nomination in 2021. She does beta reading for established authors and was part of the editorial team on Mechanics' Institute Review Short Story Anthology in 2018. Hannah has written two middle-grade historical thrillers - Winter's Bite and Fever Quest - and two commercial fiction novels which she will publish as H.P. Parry. She developed Breathing for Both of Us, a psychological thriller, on the Curtis Brown Creative course in London and it was published in December 2023. The Baby Exchange, an upmarket fiction manuscript will be published in December 2024. An Insight into Self-Publishing with Hannah Parry In this first of three segments of episode 48 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P talks with guest, writer, Hannah Parry, who has self-published multiple books, including middle-grade historical fiction thrillers and adult commercial psychological fiction. Hannah discusses her journey from attempting the traditional publishing routes to embracing self-publishing, the advantages of faster release times and higher royalties, and shares some of her personal and professional background, including her experiences as a nurse and her process of finding her readers. The conversation highlights the challenges and nuances of both traditional and self-publishing in today's literary landscape. Writing, Editing, and Horror: A Conversation with Author H P Parry In this second of three segments of episode 48 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P & Hannah Parry discuss her previous output as well as current projects including her upcoming release 'The Baby Exchange,' scheduled for this month. The conversation explores the themes of her new book, including reality TV and the challenges of young adulthood but shifts quickly to the importance of appropriate endings in horror storytelling, with Nicky P referencing some of his favorites like 'The Mist' and authors such as Clive Barker. The author also lets us into her transition from writing for younger audiences to commercial women's thrillers. We're all pretty sure this is the first guest to describe what they do as commercial anything. Navigating Personal Writing and Cancel Culture With Hanna Parry In this third and final segment of episode 48 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P discusses with guest, Hannah Parry, how personal experiences have shaped her writing. They muse over the balance between sharing personal elements in writing and the constraints of maintaining a public persona, particularly in light of the current political climate and cancel culture. The dialogue explores the use of pen names to protect identity, the role of honesty in connecting with audiences, and creative ways to market oneself while staying true to one's values. Hannah weighs in with her opinion on some of the strategies employed by previous guests including email marketing and the creative use of character personas to engage with readers. Hopefully, today's episode with Hannah Parry serves as both inspiration and education in your own journey to bring your creation to the world. Hannah Parry Resources & Extra Media hannahparry.com amazon.com/stores/Hannah-Parry/author/B008ZNCZ3Y goodreads.com/author/show/6550520.Hannah_Parry Shill Need help connecting with or growing your audience for your book, comic, TTRPG, or other creative endeavor? Check out Nicky P @ ironagemarketing.com

In today's episode of Iron Age Marketing, I talk to Aaron Ryan, bestselling author of the Dissonance, sci-fi series. Let's Meet Iron Age Creator Aaron Ryan Aaron Ryan lives in Washington with his wife and two sons, along with Macy the dog, Winston the cat, and Merry & Pippin, the finches. He is the author of the bestselling "Dissonance" sci-fi alien invasion saga, the sci-fi thriller "Forecast", the business reference books "How to Successfully Self-Publish & Promote Your Self-Published Book" and "The Superhero Anomaly", several business books on voiceovers penned under his former stage name (Joshua Alexander), as well as a previous fictional novel, "The Omega Room." He enjoys the arts, media, music, performing, poetry, and being a daddy. In his lifetime he has been an author, voiceover artist, wedding videographer, stage performer, musician, producer, rock/pop artist, executive assistant, service manager, paperboy, CSR, poet, tech support, worship leader, and more. The diversity of his life experiences gives him a unique approach to business, life, ministry, faith, and entertainment. Aaron's favorite author by far is J.R.R. Tolkien, but he also enjoys Suzanne Collins, James S.A. Corey, Marie Lu, Madeleine L'Engle, C.S. Lewis, and Stephen King. The Journey of a Voiceover Artist and Self-Published Author: Featuring Aaron Ryan In this first of three segments of episode 46 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P talks with guest Aaron Ryan, a voiceover artist and successful self-published author. Aaron discusses his dual career, his best-selling science fiction series, the pros and cons of self-publishing versus traditional publishing, and offers insights on effective marketing strategies for independent authors. He emphasizes the importance of enthusiasm in both marketing and storytelling, sharing his personal experiences and tips for engaging with potential readers both online and offline. Interview with the Author: Dissonance Series and the Journey to the Screen In this second of three segments of episode 46 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P & Aaron Ryan delve into the world of the Dissonance series, a gripping sci-fi saga by an incredibly enthusiastic author. Set in a post-alien invasion Earth of 2042, the story follows Army Sergeant Cameron Shipley and his brother Ruddy as they navigate survival and resistance against the deadly Gorgons. The author shares his inspiration, writing process, and the challenges of balancing creativity with daily life. Additionally, we discuss the exciting news of the series being pitched to major streaming networks and the author's collaboration to stay true to the source material. Learn about the perseverance needed in the face of failures and rejections, and how maintaining enthusiasm fuels the journey. Why Traditional Influencer Marketing Doesn't Sell Books: Educating The Post-Corporate Marketer In this third and final segment of episode 45 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P discusses with guest Aaron Ryan the world of book marketing with a seasoned post-corporate marketer who sheds light on why traditional influencer marketing tactics are not as effective in selling books. The discussion includes insights on the importance of authenticity, the drawbacks of book fairs, and the benefits of appearing at craft fairs. The guest also shares successful investment strategies, such as Amazon ads, and stresses the importance of a captivating cover and description. Key takeaways include developing focus-driven marketing and avoiding the innumerable scammers in the authoring industry. Hopefully, today's episode with Aaron Ryan serves as both inspiration and education on your own journey to bring your creation to the world. Aaron Ryan Resources & Extra Media Author Website: https://authoraaronryan.com Dissonance Website: https://www.dissonancetheseries.com Social: https://dot.cards/authoraaronryan Shill Need help connecting with or growing your audience for your book, comic, TTRPG, or other creative endeavor? Check out Nicky P @ ironagemarketing.com

In today's episode of Iron Age Marketing, I talk to Michael Castleman about the history of publishing and it's state today. Let's Meet Iron Age Creator Michael Castleman Award-winning San Francisco journalist Michael Castleman has written 3,000 magazine and web articles, and 19 books, 15 nonfiction books, and four mystery novels. Most of his titles deal with health or sexuality. His latest release is a departure from that. It's The Untold Story of Books: A Writer's History of Book Publishing, which he researched for 44 years. The Evolution of Book Publishing with Michael Castleman In this first of three segments of episode 44 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P talks with Michael Castleman, author of 'The Untold Story of Books: A Writer's History of Book Publishing'. Castleman discusses the history and evolution of book publishing from Gutenberg's press to Amazon and digital publishing. They explore myths about the industry, including the impact of technological changes and the lack of conspiratorial actions in publishing. The conversation also covers the dramatic increase in book titles since 2000, the economics of eBooks, and practical advice for modern authors navigating a saturated market. Navigating the Complex World of Book Publishing and Genre Fiction In this second of three segments of episode 44 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P discusses with guest Michael Castleman the realities of the book publishing industry, focusing on the phenomenon of 'book scammers' and authors who publish for SEO rather than sales. The conversation explores the vast number of books published annually, with many aiming for a mass audience, yet few achieving bestseller status. Specific attention is given to genre fiction, particularly romance and its market dynamics, and the competitive challenges authors face. The dialogue also touches on the digital revolution's impact on publishing, where books no longer go out of print, posing both opportunities and heightened competition for authors. Additionally, it discusses the gender-based preferences in reading and the perception that mainstream publishing has shifted towards a female audience, prompting men to seek alternative genres and historical works. Navigating the Modern Book Publishing Landscape: An Author's Guide In this third and final segment of episode 44 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P discusses with guest Michael Castleman strategies that authors can employ to successfully market their books and the variety of publishing routes available. Topics include the importance of professional editing, the traditional publishing route versus self-publishing, the significance of building relationships and a large email list for marketing, and the challenges faced by minority authors in the publishing industry. Practical advice is also offered on targeting niche audiences and the realities of book sales and marketing effectiveness. Hopefully, today's episode with Michael Castleman serves as both inspiration and education in your own journey to bring your creation to the world. Michael Castleman Resources & Extra Media mcastleman.com Shill Need help connecting with or growing your audience for your book, comic, TTRPG, or other creative endeavor? Check out Nicky P @ ironagemarketing.com

In today's episode of Iron Age Marketing, I talk to Jane Sharpe, homeschool mother and veteran self-publisher. Let's Meet Iron Age Creator Jane Sharpe Jane Sharpe is a homeschooling mother of five, and has been married for 26 years. She has written 14 books on niche topics for a variety of age groups in the last few years, self-publishing them all herself. She prefers reading to housekeeping and somehow thrives in a family of sci-fi and DnD nerds. Homeschool Mom Turns Kids' Book Empire Builder | Jane Sharp on Writing & Teaching Success In this first of three segments of episode 42 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, host Nicky P interviews Jane Sharp, a homeschooling mother of five who has transitioned into writing children's books. Jane shares her journey from homeschooling to self-publishing, discussing her themed alphabet books and her upcoming chapter book series. The conversation also touches on the importance of community in education and Jane's aspirations to build a supportive environment for young writers. Turn Haters Into Sales: Self-Published Author's Marketing Secrets | Jane Sharp on Niche Success In this second of three segments of episode 42 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, Nicky P & Jane Sharpe discuss the challenges and insights related to marketing, particularly in the context of self-publishing and niche markets. He reflects on his personal journey with marketing, the importance of embracing one's interests, and how to effectively reach specific audiences. The discussion also touches on the value of turning criticism into a marketing strategy and the significance of creating quality content that resonates with targeted readers. Master Your Elevator Pitch: Kids' Book Author's Marketing Formula | Jane Sharp on Audience & Action In this third and final segment of episode 42 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, Nicky P. & Jane Sharpe discuss the essential elements of marketing, focusing on the importance of understanding your audience, building confidence in your product, and navigating feedback. Jane emphasizes the need for a clear target audience and the power of persuasion in marketing strategies. Jane also shares her personal experiences with criticism and the significance of crafting an effective elevator pitch to communicate your message succinctly. Hopefully, today's episode with Jane Sharpe serves as both inspiration and education in your own journey to bring your creation to the world. Jane Sharpe Resources & Extra Media janesharpe.com Shill Need help connecting with or growing your audience for your book, comic, TTRPG, or other creative endeavor? Check out Nicky P @ ironagemarketing.com

In today's episode of Iron Age Marketing, I talk to Calvin Gulotta, the creator behind the comic series, Underworld Don. Let's Meet Iron Age Creator Calvin Gulotta Calvin Gulotta is, in many ways, nobody and everyone emerging in today's media landscape. A true grey man in the comic creator's world, Calvin has created the comic series Underworld Don. As under-the-radar as he has opted to be as a creator his creation makes no claim to the same ambition. Drawing on classic mob movies & manga and blending all the above in a blender set to hell. Mobsters turned demons vying for a place to reach the top and become something far worse sets the stage for a truly original comic offering. Comic Creator Exposes Industry's Hidden Struggles | Calvin Gulotta on Authentic Storytelling In this first of three segments of episode 41 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, Nicky P interviews Calvin Gulotta, a comic book creator who shares his journey into the world of comics. They discuss Calvins motivations for writing, the impact of storytelling, and the importance of character authenticity. The conversation delves into the challenges faced in the comic book industry, particularly regarding agenda-driven narratives and the need for compelling character development. From Script to Page: The Real Cost of Making Comics | Calvin Gulotta on Art Direction & Violence In this second of three segments of episode 41 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, Nicky P discusses with guest Calvin Gulotta the artistic choices and budgeting challenges faced while creating his comic, 'Underworld Don.' He emphasizes the importance of selecting an appropriate art style that aligns with the narrative's tone and the financial implications of these choices. Calvin also shares insights from his creative journey, including the lessons learned about budgeting, promotional strategies, and the pacing of storytelling, particularly in relation to graphic violence and character development. Creator's Guide to Social Media Success | Calvin Gulotta on Money, Motivation & Marketing In this third and final segment of episode 41 of the Iron Age Marketing podcast, Nicky P discusses with guest Calvin Gulotta the importance of making wise financial decisions in creative projects, emphasizing the need to balance passion with practicality. Calvin shares insights on how to stay motivated as a creator, the challenges of navigating social media, and the significance of connecting with the audience. The discussion also touches on the value of self-investment and the impact of algorithms on visibility in social media. Hopefully, today's episode with Calvin Gulotta serves as both inspiration and education in your own journey to bring your creation to the world. Calvin Gulotta Resources & Extra Media https://www.underworlddon.net/ https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/underworld-don/underworld-don https://x.com/CalvinGulotta Shill Need help connecting with or growing your audience for your book, comic, TTRPG, or other creative endeavor? Check out Nicky P @ ironagemarketing.com

In today's episode of Iron Age Marketing, I talk to Arvid Nelson, writer of the forthcoming comic series Band Of Crows. Let's Meet Iron Age Creator Arvid Nelson Arvid Nelson has written for numerous outlets, including DC, Marvel, and Dark Horse, but he's best known his original series, Rex Mundi. His latest venture, The Band of the Crow, is a fantasy story inspired by his love of Edwardian fairy tales, Japanese cartoons from the 1980s, and heavy metal music. In his spare time he likes to write about himself in the third person. From Rejection to Success: Arvid's 20-Year Journey in Comics & Fantasy Writing In today's episode of Iron Age Marketing, host Nicky P chats with guest Arvid Nelson about his journey from music to comics and ultimately to fantasy writing. Arvid shares his experiences, getting kicked out of a band in college, forming a comic book club, and diving into the world of publishing. He reflects on the highs and lows of creating the comic Rex Mundy, including a crushing rejection from Image Comics that led to a breakdown in an airport, followed by eventual success. Arvid talks about his passion for history, mythology, and world-building, which has shaped his current project, The Band of the Crow. This fantasy novel, rooted in Indo-European linguistics and pre-Christian traditions, has been 20 years in the making, and Arvid's dedication to the story remains as strong as ever. Adapting to Creative Shifts: Writing, Marketing & Audience Tips Nicky P & Arvid reflect on the dramatic changes in the creative landscape over the past two decades, noting how career paths that seemed viable in 2005 are now quite different. Arvid discusses his journey in writing, emphasizing the significant difference between comic book writing and novel writing finding that having a novel ready to be published meant it needed to be fully edited beforehand, a process he found both challenging and enlightening. The conversation shifts to the marketing challenges faced by creators. Nicky & Arvid note the increasing burden on writers to manage their own marketing and the frustrations of balancing creative work with promotional efforts. Arvid reflects on his experiences with crowdfunding and the complexities of handling various marketing tasks, such as designing packaging and creating promotional materials. For Arvid, effective marketing means standing out in a crowded field and interrupting the constant barrage of information that people are bombarded with daily. "Dunking people's heads into toilets" is how he characterizes it, pointing out the difficulty of competing not just with other creators but with the overwhelming amount of content people are exposed to. How to Market Your Creative Project: Insights from Arvid & Nicky P Nicky P and Arvid continue by diving into the intricacies of marketing for creative projects and the intersection of art and commerce. Nicky P emphasizes the importance of having a solid system in place highlighting the need for an effective lead magnet to attract and retain the right audience, noting that it's more beneficial to focus on engaged followers rather than a large, uninterested crowd. Arvid shares insights from his experience with webcomics, specifically discussing the success of "Brother Matthew" as a lead magnet that built a loyal audience for "Rex Mundy." He reflects on the value of consistent content creation, even when it involves working for free, as it helps keep creators relevant and engaged with their audience. Arvid even recounts a pivotal moment when he discovered his comic had sold out in a New York City store, attributing this success to the free content strategy. The conversation naturally touches on the importance of building a network and audience well before a project is complete. Both Nicky P & Arvid appear to agree that waiting until a project is finished to start marketing is a big issue, as maintaining visibility and regular communication with your audience is crucial. Arvid discusses how brand recognition and high-profile endorsements, such as interest from Johnny Depp's production company, can significantly boost a project's success. Hopefully, today's episode with Arvid Nelson serves as both inspiration and education in your own journey to bring your creation to the world. Arvid Nelson Resources & Extra Media Xitter: @arvidthetwit My artist's twitter: @chlorenology Our YT channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7cQ7CApO8FPMRTFJQCZpIA Shill Need help connecting with or growing your audience for your book, comic, TTRPG, or other creative endeavor? Check out Nicky P @ ironagemarketing.com

In today's episode of Iron Age Marketing, I talk to Fabrizio Aiello, the creator of Horace H Hoover comic books. Let's Meet Iron Age Creator Fabrizio Aiello Fabrizio Aiello is a multi-disciplined artist, including 3d, comics, and illustration. Bringing a bronze age style to indie comics in 2019, he introduced the title, Horace H. Hoover, bringing a new type of occult detective combined with a traditional superhero. Fabrizio is the sole creator of H.H. Hoover, with several titles planned under his imprint Gloomy Wood Comics. Behind the Scenes of Horace H. Hoover: From Superheroes to Occult Mysteries In this episode, Nicky P interviews Fabrizio, a multi-talented comic book creator and programmer, who discusses his work on Horace H. Hoover, a unique 1920s occult detective series. Fabrizio shares his creative process, including writing, drawing, inking, and coloring the comic, which blends elements of horror, pulp fiction, and a dash of humor reminiscent of Mr. Bean or Douglas Adams. Currently a five-issue mini-series, Fabrizio is deep into the production of issue four. Fabrizio's journey into comics is explored, noting his divergence from traditional superhero themes in favor of more eclectic and narrative-driven storytelling, influenced by works like Sin City and Hellboy. He highlights the importance of hope in his stories, offering an antidote to the dark, nihilistic trends that have dominated modern comics and media. The conversation delves into the psychological effects of consuming dark and horror-themed content, with Nicky P sharing his personal experiences from a 105-night horror movie marathon. Fabrizio reflects on the impact such content has on creators, leading him to embrace a more optimistic tone in Horace H. Hoover. Fabrizio also touches on his career as a game developer, where he combines programming with creative storytelling, although he notes the differences between the game development industry and comic book creation. The episode concludes with a discussion on the artistic value of video games, recognizing their potential as a medium for profound storytelling. Game Narratives & Artistic Influences: Unpacking the Creative Process Diving deeper into the evolution of storytelling within video games and its impact on the broader media landscape. Nicky P reflects on how video game narratives have grown into some of the most compelling stories in mass media today, highlighting the shift of talented writers into the gaming industry. However, Nicky P also shares his personal experience of moving away from modern games, noting a shift towards MMORPGs and open-world formats that offer less directed narratives. He contrasts this with older, more cohesive games like Bioshock Infinite, which he praises for its incredible storytelling and artistry. The conversation then shifts to the intersection of music, visual art, and gaming. Nicky P discusses how album art and imagery from his Catholic upbringing influenced his creative journey. He delves into the psychological impact of grand narratives found in religious iconography and classic rock and metal album covers, which shaped his appreciation for storytelling in various media. The discussion also touches on the transition from physical to digital media and its effect on how stories and artwork are consumed. Nicky P reminisces about the tactile experience of exploring album covers and liner notes, expressing concern that future generations may miss out on this formative experience. Finally, the conversation turns to the world of comics and crowdfunding. Nicky P discusses his own experience with crowdfunding for his comic book projects, weighing the benefits of creating a storefront versus launching a traditional crowdfunding campaign. He explores the psychology behind crowdfunding, emphasizing the importance of creating a sense of community and urgency around supporting creative projects. Transforming Gigs into Events: Creative Vision & Comic Book Insights In this episode, Nicky P and Fabrizio discuss some experiences and insights on the evolution of marketing for musicians and how it parallels with comic book creation. He emphasizes the importance of treating every gig as an event rather than just a performance, noting that creating a sense of occasion can make people more inclined to invest their time and attention. Reflecting on Kiss's first show, he highlights how their commitment and high-value approach impacted the perception of their work. Fabrizio also delves into the significance of maintaining a singular vision in creative projects, balancing collaboration with staying true to core ideas to ensure authenticity. He critiques the lack of authenticity in corporate marketing compared to the genuine connections found in independent creative fields. Discussing his comic book, Fabrizio explains his choice of a vintage color palette inspired by the Bronze Age, contrasting it with modern trends that wouldn't suit his project. He shares his diverse artistic background and how it influences his comic book work, expressing a desire for his future documentary to reflect his broad artistic sensibility and unique approach. Fabrizio wraps up by inviting listeners to check out his comic book and expressing gratitude for the engaging conversation. Hopefully, today's episode with Fabrizio Aiello inspires and educates you on your journey to bring your creation to the world. Fabrizio Aiello Resources & Extra Media horacehoover.com https://twitter.com/FabrizioArtist Shill Need help connecting with or growing your audience for your book, comic, TTRPG, or other creative endeavor? Check out Nicky P @ ironagemarketing.com

In today's episode of Iron Age Marketing, I talk to Christy McKenzie, part of the brain trust behind the satire magazine Flip City Mag. Let's Meet Iron Age Creator Christy McKenzie Christy McKenzie, along with her husband Scott, are the fearless super straight editors of FLIP CITY Mag. They put their lives on the line to bring you the free world's most based shits and/or giggles. Flip City Mag describes itself as America's premiere (albeit only) satirically correct magazine bringing you a hefty dose of humor and sass brought to you four times a year in print. Christy, as her online personality Kitty Filips, describes herself as a Public Relations novice and radical constitutionalist who loves Jesus and is simultaneously Salty&Sweet. Expanding Reach and Attracting New Customers Nicky P discusses with Christy from Flip City Mag's marketing strategies and the importance of expanding their reach beyond their current audience. Christy shares how Flip City Mag started and their mission to push back on mainstream narratives. She also places the magazine into the broader Truth and Freedom movement and explains how they found their way into it. Christy mentions her podcast, Creative Chaos, and its approach to featuring creators outside the mainstream, as well as discusses Flip City Mag's distribution model and a foray into crowdfunding. Addressing The Marketing Challenges For Creatives Nicky P and Christy continue their conversation around marketing a crowdfunding campaign for Flip City Mag. The discussion moves between relationship building, marketing strategies, the benefits of crowdfunding, the content of Flip City Magazine, and the challenges of marketing for creatives. Nicky P and Christy also touche on the importance of mindset and self-confidence in marketing and the need for creatives to step out of their comfort zones. Strategies For Expanding Your Audience In this conversation, Nicky P interviews Christie from Flip City Magazine about finding confidence and expanding the audience for creative endeavors. They discuss strategies for overcoming social media anxiety, creating a persona online, and dealing with the challenges of working with multiple contributors. They also touch on the importance of building relationships and finding the right platforms to reach the target audience. The conversation concludes with Christie offering advice for indie creators and promoting her marketing services. Hopefully, today's episode with Christy McKenzie serves as both inspiration and education in your own journey to bring your creation to the world. Christy McKenzie Resources & Extra Media flipcitymag.com Twitter: @kittyflipcity Shill Need help connecting with or growing your audience for your book, comic, TTRPG, or other creative endeavor? Check out Nicky P @ ironagemarketing.com Takeaways Creating a character can help overcome social media anxiety and connect with the audience. Building relationships and networking within a specific movement can help expand the audience. Working with multiple contributors can be challenging but requires trust and communication. Being active on social media and honing down the platforms that work best for your audience is important for audience growth. Crowdfunding can be a valuable strategy for funding and building hype for a project. Sound Bites "I have social media anxiety. I freaking hate social media. I don't know how to be on it as me, Kristy from Flip City Mag. So what I did is I created a character and made that her social media." "That is my main focus right now, is just kind of making friends in the iron age of doing the crowdfunding." "We just need to have trust it's going to get done. Because this is like, oh, that's the thing, because we don't even know how many pages he's doing." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Marketing Strategies 03:23 Expanding Reach with Physical Media and Comics 04:49 Empowering Individuals to Release Their Own Stuff 06:11 Political Activations and Pushing Back on Insanity 09:07 Creative Chaos: Featuring Fascinating People 10:32 Magazine Distribution and Crowdfunding 11:21 Introduction and Relationship Building 13:10 Strategies for Crowdfunding Campaigns 14:35 Exploring Flip City Magazine 17:49 Challenges of Marketing for Creatives 20:44 The Role of Mindset and Self-Confidence in Marketing 22:26 Finding Confidence and Overcoming Social Media Anxiety 25:18 Navigating the Challenges of Working with Contributors 28:42 Strategies for Expanding the Audience 32:03 Advice for Indie Creators