Turning Life Into Comics | Writing, Art, and the Indie Grind

In this episode of Talking Comics, AJ sits down with indie comic creator Brayden Viloria, the mind behind Haven and Sketch Night. Brayden shares how personal loss led him back to comics, how he built a shared comic universe, and what it really takes to write, fund, and publish indie comics today.

We dive into comic writing styles, finding artists, pitching publishers, Kickstarter lessons, and the creative self-doubt every creator faces. Whether you’re an aspiring comic creator or just love indie comics, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and inspiration.

👉 Plus: writing process breakdowns, shared universes, disability representation in comics, and why just starting matters.

Follow Brayden and Stephanie on their adventure! https://linktr.ee/rookcityuniverse

Sponsors:

• AMPED Comics – Use code TCP10 for 10% off https://ampedcomics.com/discount/TCP10

• Allegra Printing – Printing The Chronicles of Panel Pete

👉🖨 For your comic book printing needs please visit Allegra Travers City (Tell them AJ Sent You) https://www.allegramarketingprint.com...

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🗨 Get your FREE preview of The Chronicles of Panel Pete https://talkincomicspodcast.substack.com/

👉 Hit the Kickstarter “Remind Me” button to follow the project launch (coming early 2026). https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/641500179/the-chronicles-of-panel-pete

Hit like, subscribe, and check out all things Panel Pete below!

https://linktr.ee/Talkin_Comics_Podcast

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Comic Creation

16:06 The Journey of Writing Comics

31:31 Artistic Collaboration and Process

33:18 The Journey of Writing a Comic

35:19 Overcoming Self-Doubt as a Writer

40:59 Character Development and Representation

46:04 The Experience of Publishing a Comic

46:31 Marketing and Publishing Strategies

50:20 The Creative Journey Begins

52:34 Exploring Artistic Styles and Collaboration

54:50 Pitching and Publishing in Comics

58:18 The Hunger for Growth and Experience

01:01:50 Support Systems in Creative Endeavors

01:08:01 Inspiration for Aspiring Creators

01:12:43 The Importance of Following Your Dreams

01:13:37 Upcoming Projects and Future Aspirations

01:21:02 The Launch of Rook City Universe

01:23:28 Expanding the Universe: Hiring Writers

01:28:54 Creative Collaboration and Parameters

01:32:20 Marketing and Kickstarter Insights

01:40:32 Fun Questions and Personal Favorites

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