John Holland, writer behind Alma, Robot Sex, Lizards, Life During Wartime and more sits down to briefly talk about his time in comics
4 Tales Podcast (4T): What inspired you to delve into self-publishing for your comic?
John Holland (JH): I started self publishing in the 90s after being published by some Indie Publishers and after they went out of business. I took a break for about a decade and when I came back I just felt self publishing was the best way to go.
4T: Self-publishing can be both rewarding and challenging. Could you discuss some of the obstacles you've encountered along the way and how you've overcome them?
JH: Finding artists. Finding a printer. Finding money, lol. When I first started it was actually harder to find an artist, today using Facebook it's a lot easier to find an artist. The problem is too many artists and finding one that can and will work with you. I've been lucky that I haven't been taken advantage of but so many people have. I've had a few people reach out to me that I just didn't feel like they were real and passed on them. You have to be careful paying an artist too much at the start if you've never worked with them before.
4T: What have been the most satisfying moments or triumphs in your self-publishing journey?
JH: When someone comes up to my table at a con and tells me they had bought one of my comics before and read it and really liked it. Reading Tony Isabell's blog (Tony created Black Lighting and wrote for Marvel and DC) and seeing his review of A Girl and Her Dog and calling it one of the best comics of the year. Setting up at a con and hearing a young man, about 13 or 14 asking the con organizer how he got me to show up and that I was one of his favorite writers.
4T: How do you navigate the ever-changing landscape of self-publishing, particularly when it comes to marketing and connecting with your audience?
JH: Trying to stay up to date with any marketing trends. Working with other people that know more about it than I do. Trying to make sure I post on social media as much as I can to keep my presence out there as much as possible.
4T: Last question: for individuals aspiring to self-publish their own comics, what advice would you offer based on your experiences?
JH: Don't give up. It's tough. Just keep working and getting better. Listen to what other people say but don't let any negative comments stop you. Learn from them and just get better.
4T: Thank you again, John for taking some time with us. Everyone go check out John's work at https://globalcomix.com/a/die-bold-comics
