Comic Crusaders Podcast

Al Mega

CEO of Comic Crusaders, Al Mega, covers all types of pop-culture content with in-depth interview with folks from different industries such as Comic Book Publishers to Creators (Writers, Artists, Musicians, etc...), Technology (Blockchain, Software Developers, etc...), Entrepreneurs (Coaches, Speakers, Business Owners, etc...) and more...Visit our website: www.comiccrusaders.com

  1. 2d ago

    Michael Coast Talks PICK-UP | AWA's Social Media Crime Thriller | Comic Crusaders Podcast #669

    The digital age has turned everyone into a broadcaster. Cameras are always rolling. Phones are always recording. But what happens when the footage captures something it was never meant to see? That chilling idea is at the heart of PICK-UP, the new crime thriller one-shot from AWA Studios, written by Michael Coast and arriving in comic shops on March 18. In this episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast, Al Mega sits down with Coast to explore the inspiration behind the story and the dangers hiding inside our always-online world. PICK-UP dives headfirst into the collision between social media fame and violent crime. The story follows an influencer whose carefully curated online life spirals out of control when background footage captures a dangerous secret. Suddenly, the camera that once fueled his success becomes the key to unraveling everything. For Coast, the project marks an exciting shift from editor to creator. As a Senior Editor at AWA Studios, he has played a key role in shaping projects from other writers and artists. With PICK-UP, he steps forward as the storyteller himself, bringing a tense, modern thriller to readers. During the conversation, Coast shares insights into the creative process behind the comic, the influence of classic suspense storytelling, and how modern technology has changed the way crime stories can be told. The episode also explores: • Michael Coast's journey into comics • The transition from editor to writer • The influence of Hitchcock-style storytelling • The role of social media in modern thrillers • How technology reshapes crime narratives PICK-UP promises a suspenseful ride that blends psychological tension with a chillingly realistic premise. If cameras truly record everything, sometimes they capture truths people would rather keep hidden. PICK-UP arrives March 18 from AWA Studios. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOl7wjhdwe0 Check out a preview of Pick-Up HERE Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

    36 min
  2. 4d ago

    Comics: The Call and the Cost | C.J. Standal Explores Comics History | Comic Crusaders Podcast

    The Hidden Struggles Behind Comics: C.J. Standal Explores the True Cost of the Industry For most fans, comics are magic. Colorful worlds. Incredible heroes. Epic adventures. But behind every comic book page lies a reality most readers never see. Late nights. Creative battles. Financial uncertainty. And a constant tug-of-war between artistic passion and economic survival. That's exactly what writer C.J. Standal explores in his powerful new book Comics: The Call and the Cost, a thought-provoking collection of essays examining the history and struggles of comic book creators. Standal returns to the Comic Crusaders Podcast with host Al Mega to dive deep into the stories behind the medium. Originally written for the Cartoonist Cooperative Journal, these essays explore the deeper forces shaping the comics industry. The book tackles topics like: • The history of the comic book labor movement • The intersection of art and capitalism • The sacrifices creators make for their craft • The real-life politics surrounding comics creation One of the most fascinating essays in the collection, "The Cost of Comics: A History of the Comic Book Labor Movement," reveals the often overlooked battles creators have fought for recognition and fair compensation. Another essay explores the artistic and business philosophies of legendary creators Charles Schulz, Jim Davis, and Bill Watterson, examining how each navigated the complex relationship between creativity and corporate influence. Standal's work reminds readers that comics are more than entertainment. They are the product of dedication, resilience, and artistic conviction. The book will be available in print, ebook, and audiobook formats, with narration by Nancy Bober bringing the essays to life in a new medium. For fans of The Comics Journal, TwoMorrows, and comics scholarship, this is an essential read. But even casual readers will find themselves gaining a deeper appreciation for the people who dedicate their lives to making comics. Because behind every panel… There's a creator answering the call—no matter the cost. Subscribe for more interviews with creators across comics, film, gaming, and pop culture. Follow CJ on Scoail Media at Bluesky, Instagram, Tiktok, X, Threads: @cj_standal |CJ Standal and CJ Standal Productions on Facebook Website: cjstandalproductions.com Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

    43 min
  3. 6d ago

    Abelard Alexis | Alternia | Comic Crusaders Podcast

    Alternia Rises: Abelard Alexis Talks Growth, Grit, and a Funded Kickstarter Abelard Alexis is back on Comic Crusaders and this time, he's coming in victorious. With Alternia #1 officially funded, Abelard joins Al Mega for a high-energy, no-filter conversation about growth since his last appearance, lessons learned the hard way, and what it really means to level up as an indie comic creator. From sharpening his creative process to mastering the chaos of Kickstarter campaigns, Abelard breaks down how Alternia came together and why this project represents a major turning point in his journey. We dive deep into storytelling challenges, community support, creative confidence, and the mindset shift that happens when preparation finally meets opportunity. This episode isn't just about one comic it's about evolution, resilience, and building something that lasts. If you're an indie creator, a Kickstarter supporter, or just love discovering new voices in comics, this conversation is a must-watch. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAvAqD23VMs Follow Abelard on Instagram at @abeillustrations_ Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

    38 min
  4. Jun 5

    Simon Birks and Willi Roberts | The Thing On The Doorstep | Comic Crusaders Podcast

    The Comic Crusaders Podcast reaches a fitting milestone with Episode #666, and what better way to celebrate this devilishly fun episode than by diving into a chilling new horror series. Host Al Mega welcomes writer Simon Birks and artist Willi Roberts, the creative team behind the upcoming Top Cow / Image Comics mini-series The Thing On The Doorstep. The five-issue series brings readers into a haunting world of psychological dread and supernatural mystery, inspired by classic cosmic horror traditions while delivering a fresh modern storytelling approach. During the episode, Birks and Roberts discuss their creative journeys, how the project came together, and the challenges of translating horror into the visual language of comics. Roberts also shares insight into crafting the atmosphere and tension that make horror comics truly effective. The conversation explores the unique collaborative process between writer and artist, the importance of pacing and mood in horror storytelling, and what readers can expect as the story unfolds across its five-issue run. For fans of horror comics and psychological thrillers, The Thing On The Doorstep promises an unsettling and unforgettable ride. Follow the team on Social Media at: @sbirkswriter | @willirobertsart ðŸ"š Learn More: The Thing On The Doorstep #1 (of 5) https://imagecomics.com/comics/releases/the-thing-on-the-doorstep-1-of-5 Check out their website at: https://bluefoxbookstore.com/ Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at: : https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912

    53 min
  5. Jun 3

    Nicholas Keating Casbarro | Vitalerium | Comic Crusaders Podcast #665

    In this high-energy episode of the Comic Crusaders Podcast, we sit down with Nicholas Casbarro, creator of the Vitalerium Series, a bold, emotionally driven sci-fi universe inspired by classic and modern science fiction. We talk world-building, creative risk, indie hustle, and what it takes to build a universe that actually means something. If you love sci-fi with depth, this episode is for you. Website: https://vitaleriumseries.com/ Amazon: https://a.co/d/g33NvYP Audible: https://www.audible.com/pd/Vitalerium-Descent-into-the-Void-Audiobook/B0DKL8YR1R?source_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/vitalerium-descent-into-the-void-nicholas-keating-casbarro/1146017414?ean=9798891323926 BAM!: https://www.booksamillion.com/p/Vitalerium-Descent-into-Void/Nicholas-Keating-Casbarro/9798891323926 Patreon: patreon.com/InsideVitalerium -Social Media- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vitaleriumseries/ @vitaleriumseries FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553020843285 The Vitalerium Series Threads: https://www.threads.com/@vitaleriumseries @vitaleriumseries X: https://x.com/vitalerium @vitalerium TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@vitaleriumseries?_t=8lyB9h4ckjG&_r=1 @vitaleriumseries   Thank you for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Host: Al Mega Follow on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet Rumble/Twitch: ComicCrusaders YouTube: / comiccrusadersworld Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Edited/Produced/Directed by Al Mega

    40 min
  6. Jun 1

    Braxton Cosby | Yasuke | Comic Crusaders Podcast

    Braxton A. Cosby Brings Yasuke to Life on Comic Crusaders Multi-award-winning and international bestselling author Braxton A. Cosby has built a dynamic career spanning novels, comics, and screenplays. With over 18 projects under his belt, Cosby continues to push storytelling boundaries. On this episode of Comic Crusaders, Cosby discusses his latest work, Yasuke, a powerful retelling of the legendary African samurai who rose through the ranks of feudal Japan. We explore: • The creative evolution of Braxton A. Cosby • Writing across multiple storytelling mediums • The research and discipline behind Yasuke • Representation in historical fiction • The future of cinematic adaptations Cosby's passion for storytelling and commitment to honoring history while delivering cinematic drama make Yasuke a must-read. YASUKE: DEAD MAN WALKING YASUKE: RESURRECTION (GRAPHIC NOVEL) The YASUKE Duology (2 book series) Kindle Edition Follow Braxton on Instagram: @braxtonacosby Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 664 in an unlimited series! Host: Al Mega, Follow on X | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: / comiccrusadersworld Twitch: / comiccrusaders Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​

    43 min
  7. May 29

    Brian Stivale | Voice of Prophet Samuel in Angel Studios' DAVID | Comic Crusaders Podcast

    Angel Studios continues its streak of audience-powered success with DAVID, the animated epic that has already surpassed $70 million at the box office. At the heart of the film's emotional and spiritual weight is veteran actor Brian Stivale, who lends his commanding voice to the Prophet Samuel. In an exclusive Comic Crusaders interview, Stivale opens up about the discipline required to voice such an iconic figure, how his theater background strengthened his vocal performance, and why DAVID represents a turning point in animated storytelling rooted in timeless themes. Stivale shares insight into the technical demands of voice acting, the emotional preparation necessary to portray spiritual authority with humanity, and the surprising intensity of recording sessions. As DAVID continues its successful run, Stivale's portrayal of Samuel stands as a powerful reminder that voice alone can move millions. YT: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0XIAwNB-p4 Keep up to date with Brian on Instagram: @brianstivale Check out David on Angel Studios: https://www.angel.com/movies/david Thank You for Watching / Listening!   We appreciate your support! Episode 663 in an unlimited series! Host: Al Mega, Follow on X | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: / comiccrusadersworld Twitch: / comiccrusaders Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ #AngelStudios #DavidMovie #BrianStivale #VoiceActing #Animation #ComicCrusaders

    39 min
  8. May 27

    Bailey Chase Talks Homestead, Leadership & Survival | Comic Crusaders Podcast

    In today's episode of Comic Crusaders, we sit down with actor Bailey Chase, known for portraying Jeff Eriksson in the gripping post-apocalyptic thriller Homestead from Angel Studios. Chase breaks down the emotional and physical layers behind playing a protective security leader in a collapsing society. He discusses how he approached tactical realism, leadership under pressure, and grounding Jeff in vulnerability rather than turning him into a one-dimensional action hero. The conversation explores what sets Homestead apart from other survival dramas including its moral weight, character-driven storytelling, and emphasis on resilience. Bailey also shares insights into working with Angel Studios, preparing for high-intensity scenes, and what audiences should take away after watching the series. For fans of post-apocalyptic thrillers, survival dramas, and character-driven action, this interview delivers a deep look into the making of a grounded protector in a world without rules. Topics Covered: Building Jeff Eriksson's character Survival psychology in post-apocalyptic storytelling Working with Angel Studios Leadership, resilience, and moral responsibility Physical and emotional prep for high-stakes roles What fans can expect next from Homestead Stream Homestead now and join the conversation. Check out Homestead on Angel: www.Angel.com Subscribe to Comic Crusaders for more exclusive interviews with actors, creators, and industry leaders. Thank You for Watching / Listening! We appreciate your support! Episode 662 in an unlimited series! Host: Al Mega, Follow on X | Instagram | Facebook: @TheRealAlMega / @ComicCrusaders Make sure to Like/Share/Subscribe if you haven't yet: / comiccrusadersworld Twitch: / comiccrusaders Visit the official Comic Crusaders Comic Book Shop: comiccrusaders.shop Visit the OFFICIAL Comic Crusaders Swag Shop at: comiccrusaders.us Main Site: https://www.comiccrusaders.com/​​​​ Want to create amazing live streams like ours? Then look no further than StreamYard! The BEST and EASIEST to use Streaming Solution on Earth! Check it out at: : https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6492786798886912

    34 min
4.8
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

CEO of Comic Crusaders, Al Mega, covers all types of pop-culture content with in-depth interview with folks from different industries such as Comic Book Publishers to Creators (Writers, Artists, Musicians, etc...), Technology (Blockchain, Software Developers, etc...), Entrepreneurs (Coaches, Speakers, Business Owners, etc...) and more...Visit our website: www.comiccrusaders.com

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