In this episode of Capital of Comics, Joel Rodriguez is joined by James Lamb, owner of Hive Comics, for an inside look at the evolving world of online comic retail.

They break down how online retailers have changed the way comics are discovered and sold, what creators often misunderstand about working with retailers, and how strong relationships are built on trust, professionalism, and mutual value. James also shares practical advice for aspiring creators looking to land their first exclusive cover, including what retailers actually look for and how to avoid common missteps.

This conversation offers a valuable perspective for creators who want to better understand the retail side of the industry and position themselves for long-term success beyond just making the book.

👉 Join the Concept to Comic™ Academy for a video version of this episode, plus extended conversations, live Masterclasses, and direct access to industry professionals: Metalninjastudios.com/academy

Connect with James Lamb and Hive Comics:

• Website (MNS): https://hive-comics.com

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hivecomics

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HiveComics/

• Email: hivecomicsonline@gmail.com

• Ebay Live: https://www.ebay.com/ebaylive/sellers/_d959zkxtis

In this episode of Capital of Comics, Joel Rodriguez is joined by Mark Florio, Director of Instructional Design of Metal Ninja Studios, for a deep dive on building an educational resource for comic creators and creative entrepreneurs.

Together, they unpack why skill-building and continued education are no longer optional for creators who want longevity. Mark and Joel walk through the real-world thinking behind the creation of the Concept to Comic™ Academy, from identifying gaps in traditional comic education to designing a system that prioritizes clarity, practical application, and long-term growth. They also share their broader vision for how comic book education needs to evolve to better serve modern creators and creative entrepreneurs.

👉 Join the Concept to Comic™ Academy for a video version of this episode, plus extended conversations, live Masterclasses, and direct access to industry professionals: Metalninjastudios.com/academy

Connect with Mark Florio and Metal Ninja Studios:

• Website (MNS): https://metalninjastudios.com

• X (Mark):https://x.com/markflorio178

• Instagram (Mark): https://www.instagram.com/floriomark

• Facebook (Mark): https://www.facebook.com/mark.florio/

• Whatnot (Mark): https://www.whatnot.com/user/flomark71

In this episode of Capital of Comics, Joel Rodriguez is joined by Dillon Mysliwiec, CTO of SeerNova Comics, and Brandon Bloxdorf, Brand and Community Director for Comix Wellspring, as they discuss Navigating Partnerships.

Together, they discuss the 2025 SNCC Virtual Expo, which brought them together as organizers. Joel, Dillon, and Brandon dive into how to find valuable partnerships, deliver value within them, and avoid the most common pitfalls for creatives and entrepreneurs.

👉 Join the Concept to Comic™ Academy for a video version of this episode, plus extended conversations, live Masterclasses, and direct access to industry professionals: Metalninjastudios.com/academy

In this episode of Capital of Comics, Joel Rodriguez is joined by Dan Hills, CEO of Comix Wellspring, for a deep dive on the power of Vision.

Together, they explore how vision is formed, why staying committed to it is more challenging than most people expect, and how long-term vision shapes creative careers and entire industries. Dan and Joel share real-world insights from building businesses in comics, navigating uncertainty, and making decisions that prioritize longevity over short-term wins.

👉 Join the Concept to Comic™ Academy for a video version of this episode, plus extended conversations, live Masterclasses, and direct access to industry professionals: Metalninjastudios.com/academy

Connect with Dan Hills and Comix Wellspring:

• Website (CWS): https://comixwellspring.com

• Facebook (CWS): https://www.facebook.com/comixwellspring

• Instagram (CWS): https://www.instagram.com/comixwellspring

• LinkedIn (Dan): https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellhills/