Storycomic Weekly Newsletter: June 21st
ALWAYS POSTED A WEEK EARLIER ON PATREON
Mics, Mishaps, and Moments of Genius
In Storycomic Presents Episode 445, we dive into the world of podcasting with two of its most vibrant voices: Izolda Trakhtenberg, host of Your Creative Mind, and Reena Friedman Watts, the energy behind Better Call Daddy. This roundtable episode is more than just a chat—it’s an exploration into what makes podcasts powerful, personal, and sometimes downright hilarious.
From behind-the-scenes moments to stories that never made it to air, Izolda and Reena share their unique journeys in audio storytelling. We talk about the creative process, unexpected lessons learned along the way, and the weirdest, funniest moments they’ve had with guests. This is a lively, engaging discussion that podcasters and listeners alike will enjoy.
Whether you're a seasoned podcaster, a curious newcomer, or just a fan of great conversation, this episode is packed with inspiration and a few good laughs. Plus, you’ll walk away with some great trivia-worthy tidbits to share at your next dinner party.
Tune in, and join the conversation at Storycomic.com or wherever you get your podcasts.
From Showbiz to Storytime: Angela Ayers Takes the Stage… for Kids!
In the upcoming episode of Storycomic Presents, I’ll be talking with Angela Ayers: New Zealand–born entertainer, Australia-based performer, and now a children’s book author. Her engaging 2 Little Kiwi Birds series follows Les and Beryl as they journey across Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand—or explore rainbow colors—wielding charming maps and catchy songs.
Angela’s storytelling draws on a rich entertainment past: musical TV, cabaret stages, and even funeral concerts. In this interview, she reveals how her stage presence and love of music influenced the sing-along format of her picture books.
This conversation uncovers how the books act as educational tools—complete with QR-coded songs and map explorations—to teach geography and colors in a fun, musical way.
Perfect for parents, educators, and kids, Angela’s books combine entertainment, culture, and learning in a uniquely joyful package. Stay tuned for an inspiring discussion with a creative force who’s reinventing herself and enriching children's literature with voice, map, and melody.
Project Update: Daddest Jokes Is Officially OUT!
Big news—Daddest Jokes is officially DONE and ready for sale! Finally!
After months of writing, editing, laying out over 500 groan-worthy dad jokes, and fine-tuning every last detail, the book is now out in the world. It feels incredibly satisfying to hit this milestone and see it become a finished product folks can actually hold in their hands (and hopefully laugh at—just a little).
I’m so excited to finally share this goofy labor of love with everyone. If you love puns, eye-rolls, and jokes that make you groan and grin at the same time, this one’s for you.
Book Review: Star Wars: Blast Off! – A Jedi-Approved Reading Mission
This week, I had the absolute joy of being read to by my 8-year-old, and the book of choice was Star Wars: Blast Off!—a Pre-Level 1 DK Reader that brings the galaxy far, far away right into your living room.
As a lifelong Star Wars fan, hearing those familiar names—Luke, Leia, Obi-Wan, and even Jar Jar—come to life through my kid’s voice was a total delight. The book is designed for early readers, and it absolutely nails the balance between simplicity and excitement. The sentences are clear and accessible, the font is big and friendly, and the full-color photos from the movies are just the kind of thing to keep young readers hooked.
Watching my kid confidently flip through pages and sound out names like "Millennium Falcon" with Jedi-like determination was the highlight of my day. There’s something really special about seeing them feel empowered by a story they already love.
Whether your little one is just getting into reading or is already a budding Star Wars expert, Blast Off! is a perfect way to turn reading time into an adventure. It’s fun, familiar, and filled with just the right amount of Force.
Personal Update: A Busy Week of Broadcasts, Brotherhood, and Batteries
This past week was definitely more busy than productive, but sometimes that’s just how it goes.
Early in the week, me and the other sales folks attended the Vermont Association of Broadcasters conference. It was a good chance to connect with others in the industry, but it did pull us away from the usual grind. Then Wednesday brought a full day with the Grand Lodge meeting for the Masons—which, while meaningful, definitely ate up a big chunk of the day.
Thursday was the grand finale: engineers were in to help install and hook up our brand-new broadcasting system. I ended up staying at the station until 10 p.m. to make sure everything was squared away. Long day, but a big step forward.
And hey—there was a bright spot in all the chaos: I finally got an electric lawnmower! It’s quiet, efficient, and surprisingly fun to use. Definitely a small win that’s made yard work feel just a bit more satisfying.
Iggy’s selling fruit!
New Lawnmower!
I am growing my Patreon and offering an excellent way for my independent creative community to sustainably advertise their work!
The website of your choice will be featured in the show notes of all of our podcasts for as long as you are a member of the Storycomic Patreon. The Founders Club offer is only for the first 15 subscribers. This is at any Patreon Subscription level.
Also at the Super Club level, we will publish an advertisement for the patron at a minimum of once a month.
Thank you to our Founders Club Patrons, Michael Winn, Higgins802, Von Allan, Stephanie Nina Pitsirilos, Marek Bennett, Donna Carr Roberts, Andrew Gronosky, and Matt & Therese. Check out their fantastic work at:
https://www.stephanieninapitsirilos.com/
Also to Michael Winn who is a member of our Founders Club!