510 - COMICS! The Magazine with ATOM! Freeman | Singer Ashley Paul
·56 min·5 clips
Adam Freeman reveals his new comic magazine sold 100,000 copies, defying digital trends.
The episode begins with host James Enstall introducing the show and guests, including Adam Freeman from Comics the Magazine and singer Ashley Paul. Adam Freeman explains the magazine's launch, inspired by Wizard Magazine, and its goal to create community in print amid social media fragmentation. He details the first issue's cover design by Rico Renzi, which uses multiple Nick Dragota pieces as a metaphor for comic creation layers. Sales figures are discussed, with 100,000 copies for issue one and 80,000 for issue two, exceeding expectations. The conversation shifts to price guides, with Freeman noting the complexity of valuing comics in the digital age and plans to evolve the guide. He highlights the history of fanzines and their role in comic culture, mentioning contributors like Jim Rug. Freeman then reveals surprising data: comic shop numbers increased by 15% last year, countering narratives of decline, and discusses industry changes post-Diamond bankruptcy. He explains the magazine's pull box power rankings based on subscription data from 80,000 fans. The interview concludes with details on advertising, classified ads, and encouragement to support local shops. After a break, Ashley Paul joins, sharing her discovery at age six in a mall and early disco tours. She describes her emotional songwriting style, from 'When Boys Cry' to new single 'Finding Rhythm', and emphasizes the thrill of live performances. Paul discusses collaborations with artists like Joel Diamond and Lucas Marks, noting how they help her grow. She announces her first film song, 'Hold Onto Your Heart', for the movie '21 Downs'. The episode wraps with host comments on Absolute Batman, promotions for Two Rivers Comic Con, and a giveaway of a Harley Quinn comic.
