Vermont Artists & Authors

Barney Smith
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Books
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to Vermont Artists and Authors! Where we interview great storytellers and artists from the amazing Green Mountain State.

  1. Aug 12

    (Ep: 107) They Wanted a Field Trip—They Got First Contact

    In this episode, I’m joined by Benjamin Hunting to go deep into his brand-new Kickstarter project: Model UN Pt 1 — Aliens + High School + 90s + Manga. When a group of extraterrestrials mistakes a high school Model UN class for the actual United Nations, chaos, comedy, and existential questions ensue. Benjamin walks us through how he conceived this mash-up of teenage angst, sci-fi, and ’90s nostalgia. We’ll discuss the art style, pacing, character design, and risky gambit of hitting 95% funding in the first 24 hours. Whether you’re a comics fan, creator, or just intrigued by alien misunderstandings, this episode is loaded with fun, world‑building, and creative ambition. Discover Benjamin’s other work: benjaminhunting.com #BenjaminHunting #Code45 #DeadAirComic #ModelUNComic #FreelanceWriter #ComicsCreator #AutoJournalism #StorycomicPresents #MultiGenreCreator #creativelife  Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic   Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com   Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, John Holland, Maureen Devlin, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ https://www.vonallan.com/ https://higgins802.com/ https://shewstone.com/ https://www.simkikuznick.com/ https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/ https://benjaminhunting.com/ https://www.rootstockpublishing.com/ https://www.pigmacast.com/ Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

  2. Aug 5

    (Ep: 106) The Cases I Can't Forget - Memoirs of a Small Town Prosecutor

    In this episode, I chat with Vermont native and former prosecutor Bob Simpson, author of Small Town Prosecutor: Trials of Killers, Con Men, and a Priest. Beginning in the late 20th century, Bob handled high-stakes jury trials ranging from brutal murders and alleged cult conspiracies to the unprecedented prosecution of a predator priest and other harrowing cases. Each story blends unflinching courtroom insight with deep-rooted hope in Vermont’s jury system. Join us for a gripping peek behind the state’s courtroom doors, where justice, tension, and community intertwine. #BobSimpson #SmallTownProsecutor #VermontTrueCrime #OnionRiverPress #StorycomicPresents #TrueCrimeAuthor #CourtroomDrama #JusticeInVermont #LegalMemoir #ProsecutorStories Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic   Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com   Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, John Holland, Maureen Devlin, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ https://www.vonallan.com/ https://higgins802.com/ https://shewstone.com/ https://www.simkikuznick.com/ https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/ https://benjaminhunting.com/ https://www.rootstockpublishing.com/ https://www.pigmacast.com/ Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

  3. Jul 29

    (Ep: 105) This Book Starts with a Portal—and Never Lets Up

    In this episode, I sit down with fantasy author Keller Marie, the creator behind The Mistwalker Chronicles. We explore Cast Into Twilight, a gripping urban‑fantasy where pizza-delivery boy Sammy wakes in a shadowy forest, fighting monsters, forging strange alliances, and beginning a journey toward the Last City of Light. We discuss what inspired the world, themes of survival and friendship, and how Sammy’s emotional arc resonates in a dystopian realm. Plus, Keller reflects on the other books in the series—Black Dog, The Last City of Light, and more. This episode offers insights for readers who love dark fantasy, character-driven journeys, and indie authorhood. #KellerMarie #CastIntoTwilight #MistwalkerChronicles #FantasyAuthor #UrbanFantasy #DarkFantasy #IndieBooks #LGBTQFantasy #SupernaturalAdventure #StorycomicPresents #AmReadingFantasy #fantasyseries  Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic   Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com   Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, John Holland, Maureen Devlin, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ https://www.vonallan.com/ https://higgins802.com/ https://shewstone.com/ https://www.simkikuznick.com/ https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/ https://benjaminhunting.com/ https://www.rootstockpublishing.com/ https://www.pigmacast.com/ Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

  4. Jul 22

    (Ep: 104) The Tarot - Inspired Art You Didn't Know You Needed

    In this episode, I sit down with Vermont-based artist and illustrator Michael Cribari, known for his intricate, surreal fantasy artwork, enamel pin designs, and indie comic work like The Basket. We dive into his creative process—from sketchbook to final print—and explore how folklore, tarot, monsters, and mythology shape his visual storytelling. Whether he’s crafting comics, contributing to the indie gaming world, or creating hauntingly beautiful enamel pins, Michael brings imagination to life with bold lines, otherworldly detail, and a deep understanding of symbolism. This is a conversation for anyone fascinated by fantasy illustration, creature design, and how to build a sustainable creative career in the arts. Visit mcribariart.com to explore his latest projects, commissions, and shop. #MichaelCribari #FantasyIllustration #VermontArtists #CreatureDesign #IndieComics #TarotArt #EnamelPins #TheBasketComic #ArtInterview #StorycomicPresents #MonstersAndMythology #VisualStorytelling #IndieArtScene #IllustratorSpotlight #surrealart  Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic   Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com   Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, John Holland, Maureen Devlin, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ https://www.vonallan.com/ https://higgins802.com/ https://shewstone.com/ https://www.simkikuznick.com/ https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/ https://benjaminhunting.com/ https://www.rootstockpublishing.com/ https://www.pigmacast.com/ Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

  5. Jul 15

    (Ep: 103) Can a Comic Book Teach You Civil War History?

    In this latest episode, I’m thrilled to welcome back Marek Bennett to talk about Freeman Colby Vol. 4, now in progress and due summer 1864. Marek walks us through how he transforms Civil War diaries, letters, and sketches into vivid graphic storytelling—from Cold Harbor to the Siege of Petersburg and the Battle of the Crater. We’ll also revisit previous volumes, the mix of live‑draw comic demos, and how his award-winning blend of comics, music, and history inspires both readers and classrooms. #MarekBennett #FreemanColby #GraphicHistory #CivilWarComics #Vol4Preview #ComicsWorkshop #StorycomicPresents #HistoryInPanels #VisualHistory #WebcomicAuthor Follow Marek's Kickstarter at:  https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/marekbennett/freeman-colby-vol-4?ref=7dr9jm  Follow Marek's work at:  https://marekbennett.com   Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic   Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com   Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, John Holland, Maureen Devlin, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ https://www.vonallan.com/ https://higgins802.com/ https://shewstone.com/ https://www.simkikuznick.com/ https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/ https://benjaminhunting.com/ https://www.rootstockpublishing.com/ https://www.pigmacast.com/ Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

  6. Jul 8

    (Ep: 102) The Most Versatile Artist You Haven’t Met Yet

    In this episode, I sit down with Bill Lutz, a multi‑disciplinary artist whose work spans illustration, cartooning, graphic design, and video editing. With over 30 years of professional experience and a degree in Illustration and Design from the School of Visual Arts in NYC, Bill blends traditional artistry with technological storytelling. We’ll explore how his varied background—from comic book art to book cover design and multimedia projects—shapes his creative process and influences his vision as an artist. #BillLutz #Illustration #Cartooning #GraphicDesign #MultimediaArt #StorycomicPresents #ArtAndTech #VermontArtist #VisualStorytelling #creativecareers Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic   Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com   Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, John Holland, Maureen Devlin, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ https://www.vonallan.com/ https://higgins802.com/ https://shewstone.com/ https://www.simkikuznick.com/ https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/ https://benjaminhunting.com/ https://www.rootstockpublishing.com/ https://www.pigmacast.com/ Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

  7. Jul 1

    (Ep: 101) Cats, Ninjas & Demons: The Weird Mix Behind Kuro Shouri

    In this episode I talk with Vermont-based comic artist Kristin Laflin (aka Kikirini), diving into her 20-year labor of love: Kuro Shouri. Kristin shares how this manga-inspired action/fantasy series evolved—from early webcomic pages to a growing digital presence on Webtoons and her own site. We discuss her creative process, character design, working with collaborator Dylan Archbold, and staying committed over decades to tell the story of Yasha, Hisaki, and the demon‑hunting ninja clans. Plus, she shares how gaming, cats, and 90s anime shaped her vision. Get ready for a fun, heartfelt look at long-term artistry in comics. #KristinLaflin #KuroShouri #Webcomic #MangaInspiration #ActionFantasy #VermontArtist #Kikirini #ComicCreator #Webtoons #LongTermProject #AnimeInspired #StorycomicPresents #IndieComics #comicart    Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic   Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com   Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, John Holland, Maureen Devlin, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ https://www.vonallan.com/ https://higgins802.com/ https://shewstone.com/ https://www.simkikuznick.com/ https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/ https://benjaminhunting.com/ https://www.rootstockpublishing.com/ https://www.pigmacast.com/ Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

  8. Jun 24

    (Ep: 100) Guitar Great Paul Asbell on Music, Memory & Mentorship

    In this episode of Storycomic Presents, I sit down with guitarist, educator, and musical storyteller Paul Asbell, whose memoir Stages weaves together 32 essays, archival photos, and QR-linked music to chronicle his extraordinary journey—from playing with legends like Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf in Chicago to teaching blues and jazz at UVM and Middlebury. We dive into the tales behind the pages, the deep connections to musical history, and how his life story resonates both on and off the stage. Tune in for a passage through musical time and heartfelt reflection. #PaulAsbell #StagesMemoir #BluesHistory #GuitarLegends #MusicMemoir #ChicagoBlues #StorycomicPresents #UVMJazz #MiddleburyMusic #AmericanRootsMusic #MusicalRecollections #MusicEducator #BluesRock #SelfPublishedBook #musicaljourney Want to start your own podcast?  Click on the link to get started: https://www.podbean.com/storycomic   Follow us: Are you curious to see the video version of this interview?  It's on our website too! www.storycomic.com www.patreon.com/storycomic www.facebook.com/storycomic1 https://www.instagram.com/storycomic/ For information on being a guest or curious to learn more about Storycomic? Contact us at info@storycomic.com   Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, Simki Kuznick, John Holland, Maureen Devlin, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at: https://marekbennett.com/ https://www.hexapus-ink.com/ https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/ https://www.vonallan.com/ https://higgins802.com/ https://shewstone.com/ https://www.simkikuznick.com/ https://www.dieboldcomics.com/ https://www.maureendevlinauthor.com/ https://benjaminhunting.com/ https://www.rootstockpublishing.com/ https://www.pigmacast.com/ Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!

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5
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About

Welcome to Vermont Artists and Authors! Where we interview great storytellers and artists from the amazing Green Mountain State.

Information

  • Creator
    Barney Smith
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2022 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Vermont Artists & Authors