Ever wondered if your creative passion can actually pay the bills—without leading to total burnout?

In this episode, host Joel Rodriguez is joined by master illustrator and creator Eranga Devasurendra (Metal Ninja Studios) to demystify the business side of art. While many creatives shy away from the "F-word" (Finance), Eranga breaks down a powerful framework borrowed from the manufacturing industry: The 4 Levers of Profit.

Whether you are a comic book artist, a writer, or a freelance letterer, understanding these four variables is the key to building a sustainable, long-term career.

• The Volume Lever: Why starting with high volume and low prices is a necessary (but temporary) stepping stone.

• The Price Lever: How to overcome the fear of raising your rates once you’ve built your "reputation bedrock."

• The Mix Lever: Strategies for diversifying your product offerings—from $25 sketch cards to $15,000 Concept to Comic™ packages.

• The Cost Lever: Practical ways to cut overhead, including bulk material buying and shipping hacks.

• The "Exposure" Trap: Why you should refuse "exposure bucks" and focus on partnerships instead.

"Volume is not a sustainable strategy for hand-drawn art. Eventually, you have to pull the price lever so you can make more money in the same amount of time—and actually have a balanced life." — Eranga Devasurendra

• Instagram: @eranga.d.art

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In this episode of the Capital of Comics podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with my good friend Danny Martinez, the owner of Flashpoint Comics and Games. We delved into his journey from working at a comic book store to running his own, including the challenges of COVID-19 and balancing fatherhood. Danny shared his unique perspective on the importance of community in brick-and-mortar stores versus online retail, and how his love for the Flash inspired the name of his store.

👉 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

Follow Flashpoint Comics and Games:

• Website: https://www.flashpointcomicsandgames.com/

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

In this episode of Capital of Comics, Joel Rodriguez is joined by Steve Colle, owner of Editor’s Eye View and THE Comics, for a deep dive into the often misunderstood world of comic book editing.

Joel and Steve break down the different types of editors across the industry, what each role actually does, and why strong editorial support can elevate a creator’s work far beyond the page. They also explore the growing need for accessible education in creative fields and how expanding editorial training can strengthen the entire ecosystem of comics, from indie creators to established publishers.

This episode is an insightful look at the craft behind the craft and the value of teaching creators the skills that help stories reach their full potential.

👉 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

Join the Comic Book Editor's Alliance:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/comicbookeditorsalliance