Contest of Challengers

19 RUINED BOOKS.

Mon, 26 Oct 2026 02:00:00 +0000

19 RUINED BOOKS.
•Our recent events have been great!
     #HIGGSANDBRIGGS
     Soft Targets
     DWJ
     John Cusack
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Commercial filming at Challengers.
•A rude email.
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Contest of Challengers #803
This episode is dedicated to Higgs and Briggs.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
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Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

UNDER THE DOME WITH STUBHY

Mon, 19 Oct 2026 02:00:00 +0000

UNDER THE DOME WITH STUBHY
•Kaustubh "Stubhy" Pandav joins Patrick for an in-depth conversation about the creatin of his novel "THE DOME."
•Patrick and Stubhy go way back, but how far back?
•Did Patrick actually draw cover art for a Lucky Boys Confusion EP? (Kind of? But also, not really)
•Do you like cat-shoes?
•Stubhy shares the 20+ year journey of getting THE DOME out of his head and onto the page.

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Contest of Challengers #802
This episode is dedicated to Ben Satterly.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was edited by Cleanvoice.
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Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

…AND THE KITTIES ARE SLEEPING

Mon, 12 Oct 2026 02:00:00 +0000

...AND THE KITTIES ARE SLEEPING
•Patrick tells Dal 2 quick stories from Fri, Sep 25.
•PAC on the mic.
•Patrick chats with ANDREA BELL from Sat, Sep 26.
•New York Comic Con news as it happens!
•Our Marvel Midnite Midnight launch!
•AMAZING SPIDER-MAN #1000 ordering and sales.
•A quick recap of our RAFAEL ALBUQUERQUE signing event!
•Notes for our upcoming DANIEL WARREN JOHNSON event.
(the title of this episode goes back to a David Letterman bit from 1985)

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Contest of Challengers #801
This episode is dedicated to the Bastard PAC.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
Parts of this episode were digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
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Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

100 + 700

Mon, 05 Oct 2026 02:00:00 +0000

100 + 700
•This is a sequel to Episode #100!
•Thomas Negovan returns to CoC to interview us all over again!
•This episode had to be stitched together from 6 separate audio files of varying noise levels, and thus heavy digital clean-up was necessary.
•Tom has a wonderfully infectious laugh that Cleanvoice unfortunately deleted while processing this episode. Which is too bad because there was a lot of laughter.
• https://centuryguild.net/
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Contest of Challengers #800
This episode is dedicated to Century Guild.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
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Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

THERE ARE CONSEQUENCES

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 02:00:00 +0000

THERE ARE CONSEQUENCES
•Publishers adding formats = technical issues.
•A Saga "update".
•Dal's Imposter Syndrome.
•Hiring local artists.
•Looking ahead to Free Comic Book Day 2027.
•Local Comic Shop Day will have happened by the time you hear this.
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Contest of Challengers #799
This episode is dedicated to All Elite Comedy.

A +ZERO CHANCE

Mon, 21 Sep 2026 02:00:00 +0000

A +ZERO CHANCE
•How our events are changing with the times.
•Searchable creator links.
•Dal's first-ever Blokees build.
•Tote bags!
•Challengers (and your?) support for the Alzheimer's Association.
https://challengerscomics.com/products/frans-kitchen-cookbook
https://fourfran.com
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Contest of Challengers #798
This episode is also dedicated to "The Butcher" Andy Williams.

LOGIC DICTATED

Mon, 14 Sep 2026 02:00:00 +0000

LOGIC DICTATED
•This week was not a huge week of comics or sales.
•Superhero comics tropes.
•Corner boxes on covers.
•We love inkers!!
•Spawn 77 sales.
•Current at-the-counter annoyances.
•Are you watching Lanterns?
•Challengers Similar Cinema Suggestion.
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Contest of Challengers #797
This episode is dedicated to "The Butcher" Andy Williams.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
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Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

THE END OF READING

Mon, 07 Sep 2026 02:00:00 +0000

THE END OF READING
•Is it too hot to shop for comics in Chicago?
•WE love our new CTA Tracker!
•Thanks, Patrons!
•The end of reading?
•Will Christmas Crisis return in 2026?
•KYLE HIGGINS and LANCE BRIGGS are coming back to Challengers!
•We tease some other huge upcoming events.
•Dal is still excited for the Marvel Midnight books, but Patrick didn't get the chance to read them. *frowny face*
•Subscribing to "B" Covers.
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Contest of Challengers #796
This episode is dedicated to Tim Curry.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
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Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

SIGNS OF THE TIME

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 02:00:00 +0000

SIGNS OF THE TIME
•Minor weekly reordering annoyances.
•When customers buy comic supplies.
•Erroneous AI.
•Giving directions to other shops.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
     MIDNIGHT X-MEN #1
     MIDNIGHT SPIDER-MAN #1
•Do you find value in our "NEW FIRST ISSUE" and "NEW PRINTING" shelf signs?
  ----------
Contest of Challengers #795
This episode is dedicated to Dolly. Now and Forever.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

SAME-DAY LOCAL DELIVERY!!

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 02:00:00 +0000

SAME-DAY LOCAL DELIVERY!!
•We test out our new Same-Day Local (Chicagoland) Delivery Service!
•The 'whys' and 'hows' of wanting local delivery.
•So many upcoming events!!
•Shout out to NotSoFunnyBooks on IG.
•Never respond to the comments, Patrick.
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Contest of Challengers #794
This episode is dedicated to Trexity.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

MY NORMAL STATE IS "F" THOSE GUYS

Mon, 17 Aug 2026 02:00:00 +0000

MY NORMAL STATE IS "F" THOSE GUYS
•Positive Marvel changes for retailers!
     MIDNIGHT bundles, discounts & lit sign!
     Updated Foil Cover pricing!
     Possible cover letters…?
•A Marvel x Star Wars crossover mini-series for 2027!
•The continual Warren Ellis problem.
•Adding "A Graphic Novel" to titles.
  ----------
Contest of Challengers #793
This episode is dedicated to the incomparable Mike Gold.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

PASSIVE-AGGRESSIVE IS MY DEFAULT

Mon, 10 Aug 2026 02:00:00 +0000

PASSIVE-AGGRESSIVE IS MY DEFAULT
•We do not ship comic storage boxes.
•A long Yelp review story.
•Pokemon bros.
•Contest of Challengers passed our 17^th Podcastiversary!!
•Marvel Compact Comics?!?
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Contest of Challengers #792
This episode is dedicated to Matt Kindt and Brian Hurtt.

GET TO THE FIREWORKS FACTORY

Mon, 03 Aug 2026 02:00:00 +0000

GET TO THE FIREWORKS FACTORY
•Unpacking some questionable comics.
•Batman Day 2026!
•Upcoming events, plus a tease!
•Cakeworthy.
•Upcoming exterior transformation.
•End-of-the-year ordering structure.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
     SIX OF US #1
     HAMMERFIST #1
     TERMINAL #1
  ----------
Contest of Challengers #791
This episode is dedicated to David Harper's Eisner win!

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

A NEW ANYTHING

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 02:00:00 +0000

A NEW ANYTHING
•Don't forget our MATT KINDT/BRIAN HURTT is coming up! Fri, Aug 7!!
•Brief Marvel solicits for October.
•Pitching the books of our friends.
•We do not sell everything we get in the store.
•Dal's eBay account (transforming robots for sale!)
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Contest of Challengers #790
This episode is dedicated to Arunimus Prime.

LET THEM COOK

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 02:00:00 +0000

LET THEM COOK
It's a deeper dive on fewer topics this week!
•A non-comic public service announcement.
•Marvel is moving their publishing offices from NY to Burbank, CA!
•Marvel Comics announces a NEW Editor-in-Chief!!
•Miniseries getting extensions.
----------
Contest of Challengers #789
This episode is dedicated to Richard Hendrick.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
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Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

DELUGE!

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 02:00:00 +0000

DELUGE!
*Dal's microphone turned off before the recording, so his audio was only captured by Patrick's mic. We used Cleanvoice to reconstruct Dal's audio, and it sounds great, but a few parts sound like gibberish. Well, more gibberish than normal*
•Flooding!
•UPS shipment emails.
•Distributor emails (again).
•SDCC announcement roll outs.
•Speculation on a new DC/Marvel Crossover!
•New Challengers Bookmarks are a-comin'!
•So many publisher marking Zoom calls!
•Dal has it in for publisher marketing reps. Sorry!
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Contest of Challengers #788
This episode is dedicated to The Cleaner. The Best Bout Machine. The Belt Collector. Kenny "By God" Omega!

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
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Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

IT DOESN'T. WHO CARES.

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 02:00:00 +0000

IT DOESN'T. WHO CARES.
•It starts petty…
•Customer service is key.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•The American Library Association's Annual Conference was in Chicago and we got to see a bunch of our publishing friends!
•DC Execs visit the shop!
•MATT KINDT and BRIAN HURTT are coming back to Challengers!
•We still have signed copies of our DWJ Exclusive Cover!
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Contest of Challengers #787
This episode is dedicated to your visible passion.

HORROR MOVIE LIZARD MAN

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 02:00:00 +0000

HORROR MOVIE LIZARD MAN
•Lots of new toys in-store and coming our way!
•Only Dal is allowed an Aztek figure!
•An update on the availability of Pennies!
•MIDNIGHT(s)!
•DC Animation announcements.
•The Back Issue Blind Box mystery!
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Contest of Challengers #786
This episode is dedicated to Milly Alcock..

ACTIVELY MANAGING

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 02:00:00 +0000

ACTIVELY MANAGING
•Print catalogs vs digital catalogs.
•Huge Lunar shipment on the horizon!
•Upcoming signings!
•Credit card processing fees being passed to the consumer is getting out of hand.
•Pennies!!
•A Chicago spice bag!
•New title announcements for September!
----------
Contest of Challengers #785
This episode is dedicated to Gerry Conway.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
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Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

KEEP ESCAPING IT

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 02:00:00 +0000

KEEP ESCAPING IT
•Opening a Marvel 616 Doom Blind Bag.
•BIG week of "A" list Releases. Or is it?
•MASK #1 Blind Bag surprise!
•Huge spoilers from the Big 2 publishers, before the corresponding books are released!!
•Adjective titles.
•Warrior Cats.
•Jed McKay's MOON KNOGHT is a consistent joy.
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Contest of Challengers #784
This episode is dedicated to Keith Kremer.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

THE SAND IN OUR STARS

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 02:00:00 +0000

THE SAND IN OUR STARS
•Why was "Miles Morales" written in the show notes for 5 episodes ago?
•Paul Chadwick and CONCRETE are back!
•Are super-hero comics prime summer reading?
•The unionization of Dark Horse workers.
•The DC Blackout boycott.
•Are YOU excited for the Supergirl movie?
•Please don't overuse Jeff!
----------
Contest of Challengers #783
This episode is dedicated to Dianne.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

"OUR PODCAST IS GREAT"

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 02:00:00 +0000

"OUR PODCAST IS GREAT"
The human touch has value.
Not saving time.
We do not ship comic boxes or bulk comic supplies.
Absolute Batman reprints.
Packing up mail-order subscriptions.
Using/not using Discord.
Non-copy over subscription books.
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Contest of Challengers #782
This episode is dedicated to Darby Allin.

WALL-TO-NEW RELEASE WALL

Mon, 25 May 2026 02:00:00 +0000

WALL-TO-NEW RELEASE WALL
What comics industry news has Patrick missed?
Coordinating what's on sale this week with what's coming out next week and what we're getting shipped for the week after next.
How you can see what our weekly best-selling single issues are.
I really, really love the look of our NEW THIS WEEK Wall on Tuesday nights.
Secret Identity Comics of Chester, England.
Comics talked about in this episode:
BEAST OF BORIKEN #1
STAR-CROSSED #1
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Contest of Challengers #781
This episode is dedicated to Joe Jackson

BTE MAILBAG

Mon, 18 May 2026 02:00:00 +0000

BTE MAILBAG
Here are the topics Patrick tackles in this episode, but not necessarily in this order:

Can you explain the Absolute Batman #20 printing issue?
What is Ablestar?
What Dal tasks are you doing?
What was the process behind the new box display?
Why do you guys wear suits?
What changes are you itching to make?
Which former employees do you miss?
How do you choose the music in the store?
Why aren't there links in your weekly email?
What are the biggest problems affecting your business right now?
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Contest of Challengers #780
This episode is dedicated to Sir David Attenborough. Happy 100^th!

PLUSSING THE EVENT

Mon, 11 May 2026 02:00:00 +0000

PLUSSING THE EVENT
A look back to Free Comic Book Day 2025.
A full debrief of Free Comic Book Day 2026!
Thanks, Patrons!
----------
Contest of Challengers #779
This episode is dedicated to every Challenger that made FCBD a smooth day/huge success! Jeanna, Lizzy, Andrew, Kate, Stella, George & Parker! Thank you all!

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

OUR 1ST INDIE BOOKSTORE DAY

Mon, 04 May 2026 02:00:00 +0000

OUR 1^ST INDIE BOOKSTORE DAY
What started out as an immediate debrief of our first Independent Bookstore Day event quickly spiraled out into an entire episode. Being so, no notes were taken! This is basically a full episode running down how our day went, what our expectations were, and suggestions for next year's event (spoiler: we'll do it again!).
This episode is also a look ahead to FREE COMIC BOOK Day, including an on-the-spot layout alteration suggested by Dal that we're going to try and implement (because Patrick had an additional idea later that night that we're also planning to implement).
We say it here and wind up doing it less than a week later!
----------
Contest of Challengers #778
This episode is dedicated to the Chicagoland Independent Bookstore Alliance.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

THE ONLY THING WE'RE OFFERING YOU

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 02:00:00 +0000

THE ONLY THING WE'RE OFFERING YOU
•The sunsetting of current technology is costing is money and a LOT of time.
•Welcome to Logistified.
•Canva vs Publisher.
•"Big" books with low pre-orders.
•The impending Independent Bookstore Day and all it entails.
•The recent Marvel layoffs hit a little closer to home.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
     DESTINATION KILL #1
     ODIN #1
     TERMINAL #1
----------
Contest of Challengers #777
This episode is dedicated to Gib Bickel, co-founder of Laughing Ogre Comics.

STEER THE DISCUSSION

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 02:00:00 +0000

STEER THE DISCUSSION
•The biggest comic news story of 2026!
•Disney layoffs.
•Queen in Black Blind Bags (and box).
•Dungeon Crawler Carl in comics!
•What other comic industry departures would have as big of an impact?
•Kind words from Jonathan Baylis
•Andy (in da) Bookstore Day

KFC Chicken Shortage: https://www.wired.com/story/kfc-chicken-crisis-shortage-supply-chain-logistics-experts/
----------
Contest of Challengers #776
This episode is dedicated to Adam Hughes.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

LET'S ALL GO TO THE MALL

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 02:00:00 +0000

LET'S ALL GO TO THE MALL
•Happy Taskmaster Series 21 to us all!
•Our day out at the mall.
•Blind box unboxing from Toys-R-Us and Miniso.
•A (hopeful) replacement for Stocky, and how Shopify is making it harder to implement.
•Prime Healthcare (possibly?) ditching Blue Cross Blue Shield and why we can't change our coverage.
•Visiting Atlas Comics on Harlem!
----------
Contest of Challengers #775
This episode is dedicated to Amy Gledhill, Armando Iannucci, Joanna Page, Joel Dommett, and Kumail Nanjiani.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen)
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh, Colt Cabana (both)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

SEE YOU AGAIN NEXT YEAR…?

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 02:00:00 +0000

SEE YOU AGAIN NEXT YEAR…?
•The start of Year 19 (thanks Mike Gold!).
•5 Big Event Saturdays in a row!
•C2E2 2026.
•Patrick's hunt for Paris Cullins.
•3 days between PRH weekly shipments?
•Daredevil #1
----------
Contest of Challengers #774
This episode is dedicated to Paris Cullins.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen)
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

SUCH A WARNING SIGN

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 02:00:00 +0000

SUCH A WARNING SIGN
•A Challengers love letter to Silver Sprocket.
•This week Challengers turns 18! Yikes. This shop is now nothing but attitude and angst.
•Still having an impact.
•One-star Yelp reviews.
•R.I.P. Sam Kieth
•Thanks, Patrons!
----------
Contest of Challengers #773
This episode is dedicated to Sam Kieth.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen)
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

PART OF THE JOB

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 02:00:00 +0000

PART OF THE JOB
•Dal's C2E2 expectations.
•The war in Iran's impact on Fantagraphics.
•Delayed Lunar shipping again this week.
•Latest hire Kate learns how to check-in new books.
•Where Were You When?
•Talking about DEAD TEENAGERS #1.
----------
Contest of Challengers #772
This episode is dedicated to Kat Abughazaleh.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen)
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

TRASH CULTURE

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 02:00:00 +0000

TRASH CULTURE
•Patrick will never get the hang of the Manage Comics Reporting functions.
•Dal's statues.
•Ordering from 100% Soft.
•The experience of using Content360 for social posts.
•Lunar box depth: The pros and cons.
•Storing next week's comics.
•Spine creases on comics is TOTALLY NORMAL.
----------
Contest of Challengers #771
This episode is dedicated to Davey Bang and Auggie Matthews.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen and Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol (with Danhausen)
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

IS THE LINE GOING UP OR DOWN?

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 03:00:00 +0000

IS THE LINE GOING UP OR DOWN?
•When your job interrupts your job.
•Our furnace.
•Replica editions.
•The return of Diamond?
•Getting NARCO #1 into readers hands.
•Ryan North is taking over writing duties on THE FLASH later this month, and it's GOOD!
----------
Contest of Challengers #770
This episode is dedicated to Team Guido!

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

MR. COMICS MANAGER

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 03:00:00 +0000

MR. COMICS MANAGER
We tried to film this one, and as a result it chopped off a tiny bit at the start.
There are some other… unexpected… elements to this episode, but it was meant to be a deep dive into our use of Manage Comics and what we hope to get from it.
The episode starts and ends, as they usually do, with Patrick and Dal, but in the middle… well, you'll just have to listen for yourself…
----------
Contest of Challengers #769
This episode is dedicated to Rob Grant. Smoke us a kipper, we'll be back for breakfast.

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro: James VanOsdol (with Chris Jericho)
Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue Marasciulo (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was recorded with Zencaster.
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

OUR HERO LIVES FOREVER

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 03:00:00 +0000

OUR HERO LIVES FOREVER
•R.I.P. Miguel.
•Shopify 11.0 launched this week.
•ChallengersComics.com overhaul!
•Being a part of subscribers' lives.
•Upcoming changes to our subscription delinquency policy.
•Feb 25 New Releases = 186 different single issue covers.
•PRH Split Notices.
•Pokemon pre-allocation.
•DC Announcements: DC Silver Age Covers & Stories Artists Edition; Barbara Gorgon Breakout; The Deadman; Teen Titans.
----------
Contest of Challengers #768
This episode is dedicated to the "The Angel" Miguel Fajardo.

AN ABSOLUTE CLUSTER

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 03:00:00 +0000

AN ABSOLUTE CLUSTER
•This year's Sale is already a success(ish).
•The rising prices of tote bags.
•Action figure shipping costs!
•UPS will hopefully stop f-ing up our weeks!
•Like! Subscribe! Patreon…?
•35 DC Absolute reprints to be released on the SAME DAY!
•The Superman/Spider-Man vs Spider-Man/Superman Final Order nonsense.
•You should subscribe to NARCO #1!
•Shout out to BOOM! Studios' Bryce Carlson!
----------
Contest of Challengers #767
This episode is dedicated to the Baddest Man in AEW, Brody King.

WORTH INVESTIGATING

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 03:00:00 +0000

WORTH INVESTIGATING
•DSTLRY is taking a publishing break.
•Displaying vinyl records like displaying back issues.
•ONI Press is changing distributors!
•Another disappointing round of Magic the Gathering allocations.
•Our beloved Stocky app is being sunset by Shopify.

This episode is dedicated to Jason Ladanye's boot zipper.
----------
Contest of Challengers #766

7-ELEVEN (TO-7-FROM-11)

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 03:00:00 +0000

7-ELEVEN (TO-7-FROM-11)
•Ordering higher on new books than 2025.
•IRON MAN #1 is a good comic!
•7-11!
•Consignment issues.
•Collecting comic art we're on.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Standardized comic data.
•Hirayasumi is a delightful manga!

This episode is dedicated to Our Pal Sal, Sal Buscema. Thank you, Sal. Tell John we miss him.
----------
Contest of Challengers #765

ALEX ROSS-ING

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 03:00:00 +0000

ALEX ROSS-ING
•Challengers 2026 Field Trip #2 to the Dunn Museum in Libertyville to see the Alex Ross Heroes & Villains exhibit!
•We also stopped at Comic Buying Center and, well, bought comics!
•UPS screws up our Thursday and Friday AGAIN.
•We're selling C2E2 tickets this year (for the first time since 2022).
•Patrick caught up on 17 issues of Moon Knight last Sunday! They were so fun!
•We've got a bunch of fun events planned thru May!
•Abandoned Sale t-shirts.

This episode is dedicated to Renée Good.
----------
Contest of Challengers #764

DEEP INTO IT

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 03:00:00 +0000

DEEP INTO IT
•2 more DC Next Level titles announced.
•How many Marvel and DC titles from July 2021 are still being published today?
•Avengers #800's middle pages.
•MSN's "15 Best Comic Shops…"
•PLEASE read your emails. We said please.
•USPS and UPS accountability changes (actually, I think we only talk about UPS; I think we never got to USPS)
•MSI's Spider-Man: Beyond Amazing exhibit.

This episode is dedicated to the Museum of Science + Industry.
----------
Contest of Challengers #763

THE PERFECT STORE

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 03:00:00 +0000

THE PERFECT STORE
•New Comic release day and time.
•The return of Christmas Crisis in 2026…?
•The Chicago Bag Tax increases again this year.
•MS Office changes; higher price! Less features! It's the way of the world today!
•Shelving GN's.
•Oh, to have a bigger store…
•Fill-in creators vs skip months.
•Single issues + collections vs original graphic novels.
•If every distributor had every publisher, who would we buy from?

This episode is dedicated to Hiroshi Tanahashi. Thank you, Ace.
----------
Contest of Challengers #762

99.6% ACCURATE

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 03:00:00 +0000

99.6% ACCURATE
•Dal immediately wants to talk about AEW's World's End pay-per-view, but Patrick gets him back on-track after 2 minutes…
•The words are just garbage.
•How Dal is collating our end-of-2025 best-sellers data.
•The Shopify Apps we add-on to our service.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Patrick attempts to close the chapter on our secret window art artist, but Dal throws him a curveball.

This episode is dedicated to watching football with Ryan & Carrie Browne?
----------
Contest of Challengers #761

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Bella Spagnuolo https://bellaspagnuoloart.myportfolio.com/
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

PREMIUM READING EXPERIENCE

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 03:00:00 +0000

PREMIUM READING EXPERIENCE
•ARUNE SINGH returns to CoC almost exactly 5 years after his last appearance!
•Action figures? Wrestling? COMICS? Yup, we talk about ALL OF THEM!
•Chasing the Shiny Penny!
•Strap in, this one is hefty!
•Bonus holiday song "Unwrapped You" by The Divorce Gun!

This episode is dedicated to Rob Reiner and all the joy he brought to our lives.
----------
Contest of Challengers #760

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

HILARIOUSLY MISGUIDED

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 03:00:00 +0000

HILARIOUSLY MISGUIDED
•Chicago's weather is not helping our Holiday sales…
•The rise and rise of Absolute Batman.
•Shopify sales channel issues.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•BS email marketing (with examples!!).
•AI 'upgrades' to Shopify.
•Our utility bills are skyrocketing.
•Superman/Spider-Man, March 25, 2026!

This episode is dedicated to working together.
----------
Contest of Challengers #759

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

IT'S ON THE BAG

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 03:00:00 +0000

IT'S ON THE BAG
•It's a Thanksgiving miracle!
•Minor distribution issues, per usual.
•Our Corpse Tour re-cap.
•The 2026 Angoulême International Comics Festival is on hold!
•Would you want a video component to this podcast?
•Daily (Wednesday) average transaction total.
•Spending money on branded bags, boxes, and tape.
•We'll miss you, Linda Pine.
•Holiday gift suggestions!

This episode is dedicated to Linda Pine.
----------
Contest of Challengers #758

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice.
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

WHAT'S THE SCAM?

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 03:00:00 +0000

We're taking a break from the podcast after this episode. We will be back later in 2025, but we're not sure when, or how often. Thanks for your patience and for sticking with us!

WHAT'S THE SCAM?
•We do a lot of movie promotion for just about everybody that asks.
•New Ennis/Epting graphic novel, PARTISAN!
•We still don't really back Kickstarter projects.
•Special orders from long ago that will never fill.
•Shipping issues abound in the real world.
•Why Priority Mail shipping is hardly worth it.
•An increase in fraudulent web orders!
•Comic news featuring Scarlet Witch and the Amazing Spider-Man.

This episode is dedicated to the badlands.
----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #757

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

AN ACTIVE PARTICIPANT

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 02:00:00 +0000

AN ACTIVE PARTICIPANT
•Halloween is just an excuse to talk about the Monster Cereal Mascots!
•Corpse Tour guy deserves more than YOU!
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Funding offers.
•The cost of store exclusive covers.
•A new printing of an old Patrick comic book project.
•When we used to exhaust ourselves hosting events.

This episode is dedicated to giving everyone the same experience.
----------
This episode was not digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #756

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

DAY 6,417

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 02:00:00 +0000

DAY 6,417
It's Exhausting to Exist in That Space (alternate episode title)
•Going to cons as kids vs going now.
•The 6,417^th day of Challengers and what that means for Patrick!
•The earlier days of Challengers.
•The end of Diamond Previews.
•We are locked out of our Diamond account (for all that matters).
•DC Comics is currently more additive to the industry than any other publisher.
•James Tynnion IV is coming to Challengers in less than 2 weeks!

This episode is dedicated to all 6,416 previous days!
----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #755

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

SEVERAL POINTS OF ALIGNMENT

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 02:00:00 +0000

SEVERAL POINTS OF ALIGNMENT
•Airport chat! But only the first part; we're back in the Podcastitorium ™ for most of the episode.
•No name calling.
•Digital marketing mail.
•NYCC purchases
•DC Next Level

This episode is dedicated to NO KINGS!
----------
This episode was partially digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #754

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

CCC @ NYCC

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 07:22:00 +0000

CCC @ NYCC
•Recorded entirely in New York City!
•Very long car rides.
•The Speech!
•The rest of our New York Comic Con experiences. Mostly.

This episode is dedicated to the oldest and dearest of friends.
----------
This episode was NOT digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #753

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

A SPEECH IS JUST TALKING

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 02:00:00 +0000

A SPEECH IS JUST TALKING
•Barry Mindster and the bonkers emails we get.
•Who is Laura Lympus?
•We're getting closer to having an actual plan for our New Your Comic Con
•AEW + DC Comics = Our worlds colliding!!
•Superman/Spiderman from DC and Marvel in 2026!

This episode is dedicated to always standing up for those that cannot stan up for themselves.
----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #752

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

ALL-MALE REVIEW

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 02:00:00 +0000

ALL-MALE REVIEW
•Droning on about the same topics! All deliveries all the time!
•We're heading to the New York Comic Con in 2 weeks!
•It was a tiring Batman Day!
•A 1-star review for not at all unrealistic entitled reasons!
•We'll be getting Image books 27 days before bookstores!
•Comics talked about in this episode:
     LUCKY DEVILS #5
     SLEEP #5
     VOYEUR #1

This episode is dedicated to playing the hits.
----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #750

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

IT'S JUST COMIC BOOKS

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 02:00:00 +0000

IT'S JUST COMIC BOOKS
•No podcasting backlash from last week.
•Patrick was on WGN's Spotlight Chicago this week for Batman Day!
https://wgntv.com/news/celebrate-batman-day-with-challengers-comics/
•How DC Comics is hindering our Batman Day.
•Deadpool/Batman!
•Our (lack o)f Local Comic Shop Day plans.
•An unsent email.
•20 New #1's for October 1^st!
•Having to drop a very delinquent subscriber.

This episode is dedicated to owning up to your mistakes.
----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #750

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

PUBLIC DISCOURSE

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 02:00:00 +0000

PUBLIC DISCOURSE
•Hypothetical employee situations.
•When our opinion doesn't matter.
•Red Hood #1.
•Another celebrity drop-by!

This episode is dedicated to not using your words to hurt others.
----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #749

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

IT'S BEEN KNOWN FOR YEARS

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 01:57:00 +0000

IT'S BEEN KNOWN FOR YEARS
•DC KENNY OMEGA #1.
•Challengers Blue. What If it survived?
•The Jonas Brothers.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Japanese Manga vs American Comics, via The Beat.
•IDW Classics.

•Fran's Kitchen cookbook is in-stock! Support the Alzheimer's Association!
You can buy the cookbook on the Challengers website here: https://challengerscomics.com/products/frans-kitchen-cookbook
And you can donate directly at https://act.alz.org/site/TR;jsessionid=00000000.app20117b?px=10851299&fr_id=18580&pg=personal&NONCE_TOKEN=0C147D8B6AF658D9B4FA0012D177141A

This episode is dedicated to dilated pupils.
----------
This episode was not digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #748

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

35 - 0

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 02:00:00 +0000

35 - 0
•Lucy Knisley's latest signing!
•35 years.
•Social media app changes.
•Rethinking FOC's.

•Fran's Kitchen cookbook is in-stock! Support the Alzheimer's Association!
You can buy the cookbook on the Challengers website here: https://challengerscomics.com/products/frans-kitchen-cookbook
And you can donate directly at https://act.alz.org/site/TR;jsessionid=00000000.app20117b?px=10851299&fr_id=18580&pg=personal&NONCE_TOKEN=0C147D8B6AF658D9B4FA0012D177141A

This episode is dedicated to what would have been GWB III's 88^th.
----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #747

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Bryce Remsberg, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

BLIND AS A BAG

Sun, 31 Aug 2025 19:27:00 +0000

This episode was erroneously not posted last week! SORRY!! That means there will be TWO episodes posted within 24 hours! (Thanks for the heads up, Andrew!)

BLIND AS A BAG
•Last week's Yelp review is gone.
•Bags of Blindness! INVINCIBLE UNIVERSE PRESENTS BATTLE BEAST #1, BATMAN #1 Blind as a Bat, DC K.O. #1 Lights Out, ULTIMATE ENDGAME #1 True Believers.
•Bar codes on covers.
•Compact Comics on fire!
•Black Ninja comics!
•Celebrity interaction in the comic shop.

•Fran's Kitchen cookbook is in-stock! Support the Alzheimer's Association!
You can buy the cookbook on the Challengers website here: https://challengerscomics.com/products/frans-kitchen-cookbook
And you can donate directly at https://act.alz.org/site/TR;jsessionid=00000000.app20117b?px=10851299&fr_id=18580&pg=personal&NONCE_TOKEN=0C147D8B6AF658D9B4FA0012D177141A

This episode is dedicated to polypropylene.
----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #746

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

WE'VE COMPLETELY FAILED

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 02:00:00 +0000

WE'VE COMPLETELY FAILED
•Changes to the Patreon website (and declined pledges).
•App interaction.
•A completely insane Yelp review.
•Card game allocations.
•The American Joshi + the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles!
•Batman Deadpool looks so fun!!
•Fran's Kitchen cookbook is in-stock! Support the Alzheimer's Association!
You can buy the cookbook on the Challengers website or you can donate directly at rememberingfrances.com

This episode is dedicated to Frances.
----------
This episode was not digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #745

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

OUT OF SIGHT, OUT OF EXISTENCE

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 02:00:00 +0000

OUT OF SIGHT, OUT OF EXISTENCE
•Welcome back to us!
•Don't skip reading Supergirl! It's so fun!
•Customer outreach (via emails).
•Where Monsters Lie vol 3 Dead End, and how you can get it!
•Shopify's email interface is… lacking…
•Some big events are coming to Challengers this Fall!
•Our non-existent Diamond orders.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Opening new accounts at new-to-us distributors.
•More like NO-kemon cards, amirite??

This episode is dedicated to all the cyborbs.
----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #744

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

"MITCHELL!"

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 02:00:00 +0000

"MITCHELL!"
•Patrick is joined by Mitchell Davies of All Star Comics in Melbourne, Australia!
•How can 2 stores 15,570 kilometers apart have the exact same experiences selling comics?
•2 Will Eisner "Spirit of Comics" Retailer Award recipients!
•Which store has the better All-Ages section?
•How GHOSTBUSTERS brought the stores together.
•All Star predominantly sells American comics, so how do they get them?
•Working with the same distributors from very different distances.

This episode is dedicated to 9,675.05 miles.
----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #743

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

YOU HAVE MORE VALUE THAN THIS

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 02:00:00 +0000

YOU HAVE MORE VALUE THAN THIS
•The 200^th Anniversary of the first comic book?
•Marvel's 616 Day.
•The Golden Biscuit of Adventure Comics #210.
•Problems for IDW.
•Zenescope leaves Diamond.
•What we've never received from Diamond.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
     SUPERMAN TREASURY EDITION 2025
     NEW HISTORY OF THE DCU #1
     GOTHAM CITY SIRENS UNFIT FOR ORBIT #1
     EXQUSITE CORPSES #3

This episode is dedicated to The Glasgow Looking Glass.
----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #742

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

HOW TO MEET THE MOST AMOUNT OF NEEDS

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 02:00:00 +0000

HOW TO MEET THE MOST AMOUNT OF NEEDS
•Magic the Gathering: Final Fantasy and the wave of unmeetable collector demand.
•Prioritizing the in-store experience.
•Back issue bundles!
•Gehenna Naked Aggression's printing issue.
•No more Marvel Masterworks?
•How the 1999 manga "The Future I Saw" is currently effecting Japanese tourism.
•Getting a credit line from a comic distributor.
•Sourcing comic supplies from Lunar.
•Warner Bros Discovery splits in 2!

This episode is dedicated to a 45+ year-old office desk that lived a very full life.
----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #741

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

DIAMONDS AREN'T FOREVER

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 02:00:00 +0000

DIAMONDS AREN'T FOREVER
•Childhood toy line nostalgia into today's comic publishing.
•Literally half of this episode is about action figures. Be warned.
•An "important" Diamond update!

This episode is dedicated to Mark & Jasmine.
----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #740

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

HOW DEEP OF A WELL

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 02:00:00 +0000

HOW DEEP OF A WELL
•We press "record" in the middle of a conversation about just-announced Marvel Legends figures from a Hasbro livestream.
•Morgan Perry is the BEST!
•A duct-cleaning coincidence.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Deadpool/Batman!
•The strength of the market for the late summer.
•Thank you, Peter David.

This episode is dedicated to a little Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo!

----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #739

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

THINK OF THINGS TO THINK OF

Mon, 26 May 2025 02:00:00 +0000

THINK OF THINGS TO THINK OF
•A week of repairs for the Podcastitorium!
•July's Lunar orders are due when?!?
•Ad Populum officially owns Diamond.
•BLADES OF FURRY signing recap.
•Mission Impossible Final Reckoning giveaway swag!

This episode is dedicated to doing your own stunts

----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #738

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

A CODEFIED STRUCTURE

Mon, 19 May 2025 02:00:00 +0000

A CODEFIED STRUCTURE
•Paper vs PDF
•Using physical catalogs when ordering.
•Receiving stock from Scholastic.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
     GHOST PEPPER #1
     SIXTH GUN ROAD TO THE SIXTH #0
     OUT OF ALCATRAZ #3
     ROBIN & BATMAN JASON TODD #1
     JL VS GODZILLA VS KONG II #1
     GODDAMN TRAGEDY #1
     MOMMY BLOG

This episode is dedicated to Dal's mom's 80^th birthday!
----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #737

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

NOT A PATH TO FOLLOW

Mon, 12 May 2025 02:00:00 +0000

NOT A PATH TO FOLLOW
•Website tweaks and notifications.
•Searching PRH for "I Am a Hero."
•Details of our Career Day at a local elementary school.
•Free Comic Book Day wrap-up.
•The Chillin' Like a Villain Art Show opening!
•Comic talked about in this episode:
EXQUISITE CORPSES #1

This episode is dedicated to the darker seid of love.

----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #736

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Sebastian Bach, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

A WEEK IN THE DAY

Mon, 05 May 2025 02:00:00 +0000

A WEEK IN THE DAY
•No more "Charles" at the bank!
•Forgetting subscribers' names.
•A mystery box of comics from Lunar!
•MORE shortages from Lunar this week!!
•Thanks, Patrons!
•The FCBD Comic Shop Crawl.
•Career Day!
•Diamond has finally been sold! Probably.

This episode is dedicated to teachers and their infinite patience.

----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #735

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Arune Singh
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

THIS IS DUMB, JUST, PERIOD.

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 02:00:00 +0000

THIS IS DUMB, JUST, PERIOD.
•Free Comic Book Day week prep.
•Upcoming events!
•Now that BOOM! Is distributed by Penguin Random House…
•New Comic Book Day constant shipping woes.
•Every month keeps getting bigger for Godzilla!
•Scholastic, one more publisher Diamond has just stopped supplying.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
SUPERGIRL #1
ULTIMATE SPIDER-MAN INCURSION #1

This episode is dedicated to both Michael B. Jordans.

----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #734

IS THIS WHAT RESPECT FEELS LIKE?

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 02:00:00 +0000

IS THIS WHAT RESPECT FEELS LIKE?
•Dal already has thoughts for next year's C2E2!
•It's our C2E2 2025 recap episode! It was a pretty great show and got us more excited to be doing what we do.
•Who we met/talked to!
•Dal's Dan Mora story!
•Patrick's first-ever CGC grading experience.
•Diamond Comic Distributors has an official, legal buyer.
•Our cloudy front window.

This episode is dedicated to Hiroshi Tanahashi's last match in the United States.

----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #733

ABSOLUTE UNITS OF DESTRUCTION (with MORGAN PERRY)

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 02:00:00 +0000

ABSOLUTE UNITS OF DESTRUCTION
•Patrick is joined by MORGAN PERRY, Marketing Manager at Square Enix, Inc.
•Square Enix has a new program for comic shops, Comic Partner, and Morgan is here to tell us about it!
•Getting manga into the hands of manga fans new and old!
•Upcoming manga series you cannot miss!
•Morgan's email: mperry@us.square-enix.com (for retailers who want to join Comic Partner and/or just learn more about Square Enix)
•Morgan's previous CoC appearance: https://challengers.libsyn.com/i-literally-do-not-live-in-a-world-without-comics

This episode is dedicated to the Square Enix Comic Partner program.
----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #732
Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol (with an assist from Google Translate)
Dal and Patrick Artwork: Daimon Hampton
Photo of Morgan and Patrick (outside of Club Lago): Patrick
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

IT'S NOT LIKE YOU'RE CONFUSING THE CHILDREN

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 02:00:00 +0000

IT'S NOT LIKE YOU'RE CONFUSING THE CHILDREN
•Tariffs in comics.
•Dal's take on Lost Fantasy #1.
•Cover designs.
•The closure of ThingsFromAnotherWorld .com.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Publishers missing from Diamond.
•Updating Sidekicks!

This episode is dedicated to IKEA Kallax shelving.

----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #731

APOLOGIZING FOR THINGS NOT OUR FAULT

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 02:00:00 +0000

APOLOGIZING FOR THINGS NOT OUR FAULT
•Trying to buy a Will Ospreay print by Rob Schamberger.
•MORE problems with Lunar shipments!
•MORE problems with Diamond shipments!
•2 annoying online transactions (one eBay, one Challengers).
•Alliance Entertainment enters into an agreement to purchase Diamond Comic Distributors! What do we know about Alliance?
•We're 17!!

This episode is dedicated to the 22% of small businesses that make it to 17 years.

----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #730

RELIABLY FRUSTRATING

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 02:00:00 +0000

RELIABLY FRUSTRATING
•Next week is maybe the biggest New Release week we've ever had, in both quantity and dollar amount.
•Lunar shortages!
•Quantity limits.
•Lunar growing pains.
•Marvel's "new" ideas.
•The return of Adventure Time comics.
•The soap opera that is Void Rivals.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
     ABSOLUTE FLASH #2
     DARK REGARDS #1
     PLAGUE HOUSE #1
     BATTLE BEAST #1, #2
     RESURRECTION MAN QUANTUM KARMA #1, #2, #2

This episode is dedicated to Kazuchika Okada's 1-year Continental Championship title reign.----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #729

I'M SURE YOU'RE GOING SOMEWHERE WITH THIS

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 02:00:00 +0000

I'M SURE YOU'RE GOING SOMEWHERE WITH THIS

•The next few weeks of New Releases are MASSIVE.
•What we're looking forward to at C2E2.
•Gabi Mendez signing recap!
•An upcoming art show.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
FIRE AND ICE WHEN HELL FREEZES OVER #1
HARLEY QUIN FARTACULAR SILENT BUTT DEADLY #1

This episode is dedicated to meals with good friends.
----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #728

THE BULLSEYE OF BULLSEYES

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 03:00:00 +0000

THE BULLSEYE OF BULLSEYES

•Godzilla vs Chicago, one week later.
•New Dark Horse graphic novels immediately unavailable.
•Andrea Bell signing recap!
•"Reducing complexity."
•Diamond bankruptcy notices.
•DTC podcast invite.
•Comic talked about in this episode:
     ABSOLUTE GREEN LANTERN #1
     ABSOLUTE MARTIAN MANHUNTER #1
     FREE PLANET #1
     ASSORTEED CRISIS EVENTS #1

This episode is dedicated to being Satanized.
----------
This episode was digitally edited by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #727

VALIDABLE

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 03:00:00 +0000

VALIDABLE

•ComicsPRO Annual Meeting part 2!
•Batman H2SH. Pronounced "huh-toosh"
•Back to ComicsPRO news!
•GODZILLA!
•Dal vs the MCU.
•Comic talked about in this episode:
BATMAN #157

This episode is dedicated to Michelle Trachtenburg.
----------
This episode was edited and transcribed by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #726

ALL BUSINESS

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 03:00:00 +0000

ALL BUSINESS

•This IS a business podcast, after all.
•It's Tax Time (never to be confused with "Toni Time")!
•Paying vendors.
•ComicsPRO news (of which there is little when we recorded).
•Comic talked about in this episode:
ABSOLUTE FLASH #1

This episode is dedicated to all the hard workers of the ComicsPRO Annual Conference.

----------
This episode was edited and transcribed by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #725

SALE APPARENT

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 03:00:00 +0000

SALE APPARENT

•Distribution shipping schedules.
•How did the 2025 "I Love You But I've Chosen Comics" sale do for us?
•Shopify user permissions.
•BONUS: Dal's favorite local chicken take-out restaurants.

This episode is dedicated to chicken, in all its delicious, edible forms.
----------
This episode was NOT edited and transcribed by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #724

INTRODUCING UNCERTANTY TO THE PROCESS

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 03:00:00 +0000

INTRODUCING UNCERTANTY TO THE PROCESS

•Sacrificers #13 shortage and what Lunar did about it.
•Upcoming bookmark!
•More publishers abandoning Diamond.
•DSTLRY's digital collectibles.
•A new/current Shopify headache.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
     I WAS A FASHION SCHOOL SERIAL KILLER #1
     LOST FANTASY #1, #2, #3
     WE'RE TAKING EVERYONE DOWN WITH US #1

This episode is dedicated to diversity. And we'll celebrate it forever.
----------
This episode was edited and transcribed by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #723

THE KYLE-VERSE with KYLE HIGGINS

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 19:37:00 +0000

THE KYLE-VERSE with KYLE HIGGINS

•It's an extra-special, extra-long episode featuring KYLE HIGGINS (and Andrew Challenger)!!

•Image's MASSIVE-VERSE is a universe within itself featuring Radiant Black, Rogue Sun, Super-Massive, Inferno Girl Red, No/One, and more, and Kyle tells us ALL about it!

•RADIANT BLACK #31 is the prefect jumping on point and is available to order from Challengers (or any local comic shop) RIGHT NOW!

•Did you know Kyle blew Challengers up in the pages of Nightwing? And he ALMOST did it again during Radiant Black's 'Catalyst War'! What did we ever do to YOU, Kyle?!? (Don't answer that).

•It's a double-length interview and you're getting it almost a week early (just to make sure you have enough time to add Radiant Black #31 and Rogue Sun #25 to your subscriptions!

(CoC Episode #723 will out on its regularly scheduled release date of Feb 10^th)

This episode is dedicated to John Sykes. Long may he shred in eternity. Say "Hi" to Phil for me!
----------
This episode was edited and transcribed by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #722

NO SAFETY NET

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 03:00:00 +0000

NO SAFETY NET

•How much does our Sale T-Shirt cost?
•Small week of releases for the week of our Sale.
•One World Under Doom vs X-Manhunt.
•Patrick is a "Top 30 Women to Look Out For in 2025" candidate!
•What does Diamond's Chapter 11 filing mean for Challengers?
•A last second BOOM! Announcement!
•Comics talked about in this episode:
     BUG WARS #1, #2
     FREE FOR ALL #1
     MINE IS A LONG, LONESOME GRAVE #1

This episode is dedicated to the Fallen Angel Christopher Daniels.
----------
This episode was edited and transcribed by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #721

CONCIERGE SERVICE

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 03:00:00 +0000

CONCIERGE SERVICE

•Shopify God Mode.
•Inventory reconciliation.
•Lucky Devils signing (and 2 upcoming signings).
•Ratioed bookplates.
•Chicago Box Co price increase.
•Decreasing Image discounts.
•Cleanvoice results from last week.

•Comics talked about in this episode:
     OUT OF ALCATRAZ #1, #2
     GODZILLA HEIST #1
     ZATANNA #1
     ASSORTED CRISIS EVENTS #1

This episode is dedicated to the birthdays of Karen Davison, Jamie Lamb, and Maria Palmer.
----------
This episode was edited and transcribed by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #720

COMMUNITY INREACH

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 03:00:00 +0000

COMMUNITY INREACH
•NOT recorded in a car!
•Community outreach and fan base cultivation.
•Store eras. 5, maybe?
•Challengers adages.
•Comic talked about in this episode:
ONE WORLD UNDER DOOM #1

This episode is dedicated to big red "Record" and "Stop" buttons that are too easy to press by accident.
----------
This episode was edited and transcribed by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #719

MINUS FIVE

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 03:00:00 +0000

MINUS FIVE

•No more subscription discount!
•The Amalgam allocation.
•2024 Sales info!
•Our Best Sellers of 2024.
•The Saga subscriber epidemic.
•Thanks, Patrons!

This episode is dedicated to The Big Fat Quiz.
----------
This episode was edited and transcribed by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #718

YOU ARE A FIXTURE

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 03:00:00 +0000

YOU ARE A FIXTURE

•New Release List nonsense.
•Your gifts to us.
•December sales, thus far.
•POP vinyl ordering.
•Barnes & Noble's impact.
•Lucky Devils #1 signing event!
•We're just normal men.
•'Twas the Night Before…

This episode is dedicated to 1 year without my Dad.
----------
This episode was edited and transcribed by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #717

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Arune Singh
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

POKING AROUND THE BACK END

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 03:00:00 +0000

POKING AROUND THE BACK END

•Christmas sales daze.
•Knocking on the doorway of delinquency.
•Financial mishmash.
•Poking around the back end.
•The same update on Diamond Comic Distributors.
•Dal's New Release videos.
•I didn't take notes for this section.
•Upcoming financial changes.

This episode is dedicated to Irish Christmas trees of the North.
----------
This episode was edited and transcribed by Cleanvoice. How'd it sound?
Contest of Challengers #716

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Arune Singh
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

THE ONGOING SAGA

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 03:00:00 +0000

THE ONGOING SAGA
•An update on Diamond Comic Distributors.
•(Lack of) SAGA for 2024.
•Firing subscribers.
•Loyality/Points programs.
•Holiday restock.

This episode is dedicated to the song "On The Loose" by SAGA.
----------
Contest of Challengers #715

Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Arune Singh
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

WHAT IS EVEN GOING ON?

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 03:00:00 +0000

WHAT IS EVEN GOING ON?
•Amethyst, Princess of Gemworld.
•A week without Diamond.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Ireland.
•Spoiler. Not as in we can't tell you, as in the Go-Bot.

This episode is dedicated to Guinness.
----------
Contest of Challengers #714
Theme: Adam WarRock (with Mikal kHill)
Intro/Outro: James VanOsdol
"Patrick" Voices: Richie Kotzen, Christopher Daniels, James Acaster, Sue (Trent's Mom), RJ City, Arune Singh, James VanOsdol
"Dal" Voices: James VanOsdol, RJ City, Dalton Castle, Sue (Trent's Mom), Kevin Conroy, Kris Statlander, Skye Blue, Arune Singh
----------
Challengers Comics + Conversation
1845 N Western Ave • Chicago, IL 60647
773.278.0155 • ChallengersComics.com

KEEPING IT MIDWEST

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 03:00:00 +0000

KEEPING IT MIDWEST
Patrick is out of the country! Dal is stuck doing all the work!
So that means... Guest Hosts!!

•Who are this episode's guest hosts?
•How did they discover Challengers?
•What are things like where they're at?
•In front of the divider aka pull bag (bag?) discussion.
•Comics they love.
•Comic talked about: THE SEASONS #1
•How to be a good shopper

Thanks for listening! Keep Reading Comics!
This episode is dedicated to 8-hour international flights.

INTERNET FAMOUS

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 03:00:00 +0000

INTERNET FAMOUS
•No more Samsung Podcasts.
•Toy shopping around town.
•Your children's names.
•The Feral World Tour event.
•Holiday recommendations!
•Comic talked about in this episode:
NEW GODS #1

This episode is dedicated to Dal's birthday.
Contest of Challengers #712

OPTIMISM??

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 03:00:00 +0000

OPTIMISM??
•The B.O.I. Report.
•Dated periodicals.
•Optimism? From US??
•Dividers.
•DOOM!

This episode is dedicated to how unsettling Chris Evans looks with normal proportions.
Contest of Challengers #711

BLOOD IN THE TITLE

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 03:00:00 +0000

BLOOD IN THE TITLE
•Controlling your reactions.
•This week's New Release videos.
•DC's initial wave of Absolute #1's are all out.
•Comic book elections.
•BOOM! (and Oni) press releases for the week.
•Comparing another shop's invoice (again).

This episode is dedicated to Florence Pugh.
Contest of Challengers #710

FEEDING FRENZY

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 02:00:00 +0000

FEEDING FRENZY
•The long reach of Absolute Batman #1.
•New website single-issue buying limits (and why).
•LUCKY DEVILS #1 (by Ryan Browne and Charles Soule) is a really fun new comic!!
•Thanks, Patrons!
•The ongoing struggle for Pre-Orders.
•The Fan Confidence Rating (via Prana DMS and Manage Comics).
•Publisher Zoom meetings for retailers.

This episode is dedicated to Halloween candy.
Contest of Challengers #709

THEMATIC HEFT

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 02:00:00 +0000

THEMATIC HEFT
•Graphic Novels based off of bands.
•Out-of-print graphic novels.
•X-Books sales check-in!
•Collector mentality.
•How the Day of the Dead Gil Signing went.
•Daimond warehouse reduction.
•Diamond replenishment shipping.
•Marvel FOC's thru January 2025.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
CALAVERA P.I. #1
DUST TO DUST #1
This episode is dedicated to Chris McCausland's amazing Strictly performances, thus far.
Contest of Challengers #708

MEGAFORCE

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 02:00:00 +0000

MEGAFORCE
•Absolute Batman #1 is a HUGE, thikk-thighed hit!
•It's all about the BOOM (Tube)!
•Aimee Garcia and AJ Mendez are coming (or, were here, by the time you hear this)!
•Something about wrestling fans…
•Thank you, Samantha/Welcome back, Donovan.
•NYCC announcements (as of Thursday).
•Comic talked about in this episode:
GI JOE #1
This episode is dedicated to Tod Howarth's hand-written lyrics from 1995's Silhouette album.
Contest of Challengers #707

CHANGING THE CALCULUS

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 02:00:00 +0000

CHANGING THE CALCULUS
•A broken frame.
•Dal's Manage Comics Vision Board (TM).
•Website search bars.
•Dal is unqualified to sell comics.
•Comic shop theft.
•The high rent of modern retail.
•Super-fun upcoming events!
•Our preferable comic book publishing format?

This episode is dedicated to Mike Norton's first Richie Kotzen concert.
Contest of Challengers #706

WE JUST DO WHAT WE DO

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 02:00:00 +0000

WE JUST DO WHAT WE DO
•September 2024 sales.
•The difference between different distributors' invoicing.
•Stocky importing (and what is Stocky).
•Burnt out on too many comics.
•Hand-selling is getting harder.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•The new lights are all installed!
Contest of Challengers #705

This episode is dedicated to Patrick's brother George and his brand new high-tech robotic knee.

LET THERE BE LIGHT

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 02:00:00 +0000

LET THERE BE LIGHT
•Online credit/Pokemon kids.
•We have (many but not all) new lights!
•How was Batman Day 2014?
•Dal talks about the Chicago White Sox a little bit more than Patrick wants him to.
•No change in our weekly delivery date woes.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
     ABSOLUTE WONDER WOMAN #1
     DAY OF THE DEAD GIRL #1
     TITANS #16
     DETECTIVE COMICS #1090
     NIGHTWING #119
     SUPERMAN #19
     FLASH #14
This episode brought to you by Richie Kotzen's NOMAD and dedicated to the memory of Longboi, Britain's (former) tallest duck.
Contest of Challengers #704

CLIFFORD T. JUMPER

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 01:53:00 +0000

CLIFFORD T. JUMPER
•Patrick is (was) on WGN Spotlight Chicago.
•Breaking our Manga section into Genres.
•Another week of Lunar woes.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
     BATMAN & ROBIN YEAR ONE #1
     BLACK CANARY BEST OF THE BEST #1
     GODZILLA MONSTERPIECE THEATRE #1
Contest of Challengers #703

FUNGIBLE

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 02:00:00 +0000

FUNGIBLE
•Surge pricing.
•Non-consecutive artists.
•Good relationships with your USPS/UPS/FED EX delivery people.
•Printer delays.
•September sales slump.
•The $2 Million copy of Fantastic Four #1.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
     ABSOLUTE POWER #4
     DC ALL IN
     ABSOLUTE BATMAN #1
Contest of Challengers #702

DAL CHOSE IT

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 02:00:00 +0000

DAL CHOSE IT
•No cookies?!?
•Updating the public.
•A lunar eclipse.
•The McDonalds bonus play.
Contest of Challengers #701

34 700

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 02:00:00 +0000

34>700
•Episode 700 coincides with Patrick's 34^th Comic Retail Anniversary!
•No, our Challengers Choice counter dump does not hold free comics.
•A deep dive into the emails we send every month.
•Book market shipment packing has not gotten any better.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•DC Comics' new Compact Comics standing display.
•Losing a mail order subscriber.
Contest of Challengers #700

"HEL-LO. DAN-YELL?"

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 02:00:00 +0000

"HEL-LO. DAN-YELL?"
•Consulting?
•Retailers talk, but do they listen?
•Advice on opening a comic shop.
•Unpopular opinion time!
•Cover design fun!
•Power Fantasy #1 is STILL so good!
•DC's Compact Comics commercial.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yklMO_mPRoI
•Apple wants our Patreon money!
Contest of Challengers #699

THE BREAK-UP SONG

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 02:00:00 +0000

THE BREAK-UP SONG
•Little Golden Books.
•3 new DC titles for November.
•Checking in on From The Ashes sales.
•Marvel Unlimited.
•So many Batmans.
•The Challengers Book Club.
•Comic talked about in this episode:
THE MOON IS FOLLOWING US #1
Contest of Challengers #698

PROMOTIONAL MUSCLE

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 02:00:00 +0000

PROMOTIONAL MUSCLE
•Sponsors!
•Inventory needs to be synched.
•A Manage Comics correction.
•So many new #1 issues per week.
•Promotional muscle.
•Snap-It's!
Contest of Challengers #697

IT'S NOT IN MY DNA

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 02:00:00 +0000

IT'S NOT IN MY DNA
•July 2024 sales vs July 2023 sales.
•The worst team in baseball.
•Comparing our ordering vs another store.
•Foil cover pricing.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
     ZERO HOUR 30^TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL
     GOTHAM CITY SIRENS #1
     AUTUMN KINGDOM #1
     JENNY SPARKS #1
     STANDSTILL #1
     DC VS VAMPIRES WORLD WAR V #1
Contest of Challengers #696

CONNECTION

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 02:00:00 +0000

CONNECTION
Sorry, but this episode was recorded in the car. It's been a busy week and there was no other time to get together and do it. It's also a little shorter than usual, so that's strike 2.

But we do manage to talk about some industry news (Marvel ramping up their QR page usage), some SDCC stories, and run down the full slate of DC Comics creator changes starting in October.

Contest of Challengers #695

COIL VOLTAGE

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 02:00:00 +0000

COIL VOLTAGE
•Zdarsky Comic News
•Powerpuff Girls #1 is so much fun!
•Giveaways being given to the right people.
•ALL IN and Absolute DC.
•A last-second security alarm call!

Contest of Challengers #694

FOR STABILITY REASONS

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 02:00:00 +0000

FOR STABILITY REASONS
•How the video game Zenless Zone Zero is like working in a comic shop.
•BIG Manage Comics update!
•Gettin' them ducts cleaned!
•DSTLRY leaves Lunar for Diamond!
•We actually like Lunar as a comic distribution company.
•Penguin Random House buys BOOM! Studios!
•When publishers reuse terminology, such as "absolute" or "ultimate".

Contest of Challengers #693

IT'S NOT AN ERA

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 02:00:00 +0000

IT'S NOT AN ERA
•Challengers Shelf Sponsorship is live!
https://challengerscomics.com/products/shelf-sponsorship
•The Future of The X-Men starts Now!
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Comics talked about in this episode:
     X-MEN #1
     POWER FANTASY #1, #2
     NICE HOUSE BY THE SEA #1
     RED BEFORE BLACK #1
     KILL ALL IMMORTALS #1, #2
Contest of Challengers #692

IT'S JUST NOISE

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 02:00:00 +0000

IT'S JUST NOISE
•The new weekly delivery schedule for new comics.
•Marvel's stealth release of Moon Knight Fist of Khonshu #0.
•DC's confidence in Absolute Power #2?
•Notable, non-product specific challenges.
•Shopify's 150+ updates.
•Diamond's new Fandomworld.
•Our products in someone else's (non-comic) shop
Contest of Challengers #691

"SOMETHING SPECIAL IS COMING"

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 02:00:00 +0000

"SOMETHING SPECIAL IS COMING"
•July 3rd is going to be a very small week of new comics.
•Tipping.
•Marvel has quietly ended/is ending several series.
•Strange Tales Marvel Legends.
•SAGA, now in a smaller collection format.
•Frustrations when ordering from incomplete solicitations.
•Upcoming comics for September.
•Other media writers writing comics.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
SOMETHING CRAWLED OUT #1
Contest of Challengers #690

TO FACILITATE BEAUTIFICATION

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 02:00:00 +0000

TO FACILITATE BEAUTIFICATION
•Advance PDF's from BOOM! Studios and Image.
•Shelf Sponsorship—more details!
•Website Changes? Dark Mode!
•Cute Animal Videos
•Rifters #1!
•Manga
Contest of Challengers #689

"SUPERHERO BURGER"

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 02:00:00 +0000

"SUPERHERO BURGER"
•CRIME! Crime?
•Spam.
•No single issues; the future?
•Sponsorships!!
•Maybe there's something to that burger idea…?
•Comics talked about in this episode:
TMNT #1
SCARLETT #2
Contest of Challengers #688

OBFUSCATING THE DETAILS

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 04:57:00 +0000

OBFUSCATING THE DETAILS
•4 years ago today…
•The bad and good of retail, both in one day!
•Identity thieved!
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Taskmaster!
•Marvel's bizarre FOC maneuvers.
•July is HUGE for New #1's!
•Red Band books are (unfortunately) the future.
•Lack of interest in Blood Hunt/Absolute Power, even tho we're happy with them.
Contest of Challengers #687

DUST BITERS

Mon, 27 May 2024 07:16:00 +0000

DUST BITERS
•Item Scraping solicitors.
•"New Series" Flyer for Sidekicks and Manga.
•The difficulties of ordering new manga.
•Adjusting our Manage Comics Bookmark.
•The 1982 DC Comics Style Guide.
•The saga of Black River's new floor.
•Comic talked about in this episode:
SCARLETT #1
Contest of Challengers #686

FOLD-ER

Mon, 20 May 2024 03:42:00 +0000

FOLD-ER
•Welcome to Contest of Challengers with Charles and Dale!
•Archiving comics on our website.
•UPS shipments.
•Card game ordering, and lack thereof.
•(More) New X-Titles!
•Comics talked about in this episode:
LAWFUL #1
GROMMETS #1
PROFANE #1
Contest of Challengers #685

GETTING A HANDLE ON FCBD

Mon, 13 May 2024 02:22:00 +0000

GETTING A HANDLE ON FCBD
•What happened to our front door handle?
•Smoke N Snack's front window nightmare.
•How was Free Comic Book Day?
Contest of Challengers #684

INTELLECTUALLY?

Mon, 06 May 2024 02:37:00 +0000

INTELLECTUALLY?
•Bad customer service.
•Gotta get them Back Issues!
•Setting up for FCBD.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Our C2E2 experiences.
Contest of Challengers #683

THE FUTURE OF COMIC BOOK RETAIL

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 04:03:00 +0000

THE FUTURE OF COMIC BOOK RETAIL
LIVE from Conference Room S403 at McCormick Place, it's the C2E2 panel discussion, THE FUTURE OF COMICS RETAIL with Patrick, W. Dal, Katie Pryde (Books With Pictures, Portland), and Dimitrios Fragiskatos (Anyone Comics/Everyone Comics, NY).

The sound quality is a little iffy on this one due to recording in such a large room, but we've adjusted it some to make it a little more listener-friendly. But Patrick and Katie were much closer to the recording device than Dal and Dimitrios were.

We talk about:
•Building your shop on your specific passions.
•Using the book industry as a retail guide.
•What to immediately change in the next year to increase sales.
•Lots more!

What you missed (before the recording started): Patrick pretending to be James Tynion IV for the first 5 minutes of the panel. It's okay though, because afterwards, James actually signed off on the impersonation.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
SPECTREGRAPH #1

I'M NOT EVERYBODY

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 18:53:00 +0000

I'M NOT EVERYBODY
•Dented packaging.
•Charging delinquent subscribers interest…?
•DC's 5-book release week.
•FCBD output.
•California's Earth-2 is closing, and their reasons make perfect sense.
•Results of the ComicsPRO Retailer Survey.
•Patrick read a ton of advance PDF's (and most of the books already came out).
•Comics talked about in this episode:
CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON LIVES #1, #2
WHITE BOAT #1
AIN'T NO GRAVE #1
CROCODILE BLACK #1
HELLVERINE #1
Contest of Challengers #681

BLACK TIE

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0000

BLACK TIE
•The Future Of Comic Book Retail
•Apparently we are not a "Legacy" shop.
•"Marcus" and his comic book. And a black tie.
•People keep asking to have signings at Challengers.
•3 new X-Titles and X-Men '92 vs X-Men '97.
•Waaayyy too much television digression. Sorry.
•Lunar's waxy new cardboard inserts.
•Diamond shipping changes.
Contest of Challengers #680

ENTHUSIASM OVER KNOWLEDGE

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 01:42:00 +0000

ENTHUSIASM OVER KNOWLEDGE
•A very full inbox.
•Leaving tasks for the other person.
•Upcoming Events with: Brian Azzarello, Stephanie Phillips, Sarah Becan, Sage Coffey, Bianca Xunise (and more!)!
•Publisher price changes are always a surprise.
•Misplaced retailer concerns.
•Prioritizing sales over tasks.
•Us, as customers at other shops.
•Our dentists.
•"Butcher, Baby" by The Divorce Gun.
Contest of Challengers #679

IN SEQUENCE

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 23:47:00 +0000

IN SEQUENCE
•We have now officially been open for 16 years! Yow!
•Keeping the "local" in local events.
•C2E2 is fast approaching.
•Wanting to refresh every aspect of the shop.
•Some of the many books being published in June.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Taskmaster
Contest of Challengers #678

XVI

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 02:59:00 +0000

XVI
•Sixteen years in the same building but with many different building owners/managers.
•Hmmm, can Patrick get Kip Winger to come out for our 17th Anniversary next year…?
•Looking back at the comic shops of Chicago over the past 16 years.
•Dal likes to refresh our website captions regularly.
•The end of our reward program.
•Uncanny X-Men #130 cover posters!
•IG video responses.
Contest of Challengers #677

X-CHANGES

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 04:45:00 +0000

X-CHANGES
•Sorry, we don't price-match with Amazon, because we don't have a market cap of $1,820,000,000,000.
•Single issue sales attrition as evidenced on the sales floor.
•The future of the X-Men comic universe has been revealed!
•A massive Diamond shipping rebate.
•"Minor shelf wear"
•New Publisher returnability options.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
TRANSFORMERS #7
UNCANNY VALLEY #1
SILICON BANDITS #1
Contest of Challengers #676

CALL AN AMBULANCE

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 05:06:00 +0000

CALL AN AMBULANCE
•The many, many ways comic shops can sort comics for their subscribers.
•How we think distributors ship their books, geographically.
•"You called?"
•Patrick broke his 3rd exercise bike.
•"Can you call me an ambulance?"
•Comics talked about in this episode:
SPECTREGRAPH #1
DUDLEY DATSON AND THE FOREVER MACHINE #1
MONSTERS ARE MY BUSINESS #1
Contest of Challengers #675

INCENTIVE TO BUY

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 05:21:00 +0000

INCENTIVE TO BUY
•The fresh scent of Challengers.
•February sales are a Challengers record (not a good record).
•Refreshing our Reward program.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Cancelling wrestling action figures from Diamond.
•Pre-order amounts.
•DC's Absolute Power event grows.
•Comic talked about in this episode:
FERAL #1
Contest of Challengers #674

FLAT-RATE

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 03:01:00 +0000

FLAT-RATE
•Diamond announces new Flat-Rate shipping pricing.
•The ComicsPRO Annual Meeting is happening right now! And we are not there.
•DC announcements:
Wednesday is officially New Comic Day starting in July.
A new line of Themed trade paperback collections.
Absolute Power is the big summer crossover, by Mark Waid and Dan Mora.
•Marvel officially announces a new Ultimates team comic by Deniz Camp and Juan Frigeri.
•Batman/Dylan Dog is a very good comic and you should be excited for it.
•Ryan North writes really good comics!!
•Those DC/Marvel Omnibi are now available to pre-order on our website!
DC Versus Marvel
DC Marvel Amalgam
Contest of Challengers #673

MUCHA LUCHA

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 01:35:00 +0000

MUCHA LUCHA

•Sidekicks is fun!
•Sale shirts, redux.
•Comic sales in Vegas.
•Pop-Ups.
•Madame Web.
•Shopify tax forms.
•The cost of window prints.
•DC/Marvel Crossover omnibus editions!
•Salt Shed's Fret12 with Ready For Death! Watch It Here!!
Contest of Challengers #672

FIT TO PRINT

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 07:54:00 +0000

FIT TO PRINT

•Thank you for sharing any of our posts and for liking what we do!
•How is our 25% Off Sale doing…?
•It's a Brand-New Dal!!
•Lack of Channel 4 advertising revenue.

•What is Tik-Tok for, really?
•You can't subscribe to books like it's the 90's anymore.
•Not prioritizing money.
•Sale shirt controversy!
•"Dal Reads You to Sleep" Coming Soon!!
•Comic talked about in this episode:
     THE DISPLACED #1 (again)
     IF YOU FIND THIS I'M ALREADY DEAD #1
     THE CABINET #1
     U & I #1

Contest of Challengers #671

IN-SALE STORES

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 03:42:00 +0000

IN-SALE STORES
•Final Order Cutoff emails.
•A Man with a Hat.
•SALE!!!
•No Wednesday holds.
•January's final sales numbers.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Credit card processing fees.
•Comic talked about in this episode:
MAN'S BEST ASHCAN
Contest of Challengers #670

FEELING THE IMPACT

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 02:32:00 +0000

FEELING THE IMPACT
•Low January sales.
•The future of vaulting subscriber credit cards.
•Ghost Machine
-Publisher support
-Issue readability
•No retailer support for Returnability.
•Shopify/Google email compliance.
•Spotify/Patreon RSS feed confusion.
•Two new events
-Spawn #350 RE: Spawn Podcast Day
-Dick Tracy #1 Release Day Double Signing
•Comic talked about in this episode:
THE DISPLACED #1
LITTLE BLACK BOOK #1
TMNT (New Series)
Contest of Challengers #669

DEAD POWER

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 02:49:00 +0000

DEAD POWER

•Dead Strange
•Chainsaw Man's Power
•Neca product returns.
•No bags (this is in my notes but as I'm typing this, I have no memory of what it means, yet we only recorded 2 hours ago).

•An almost Scott Kurtz signing.
•And the t-shirt artist is… Gustavo Duarte!
•Our Top Selling Graphic Novels of 2023 (and Publishers)
Contest of Challengers #668

YOU SHOULD HAVE CALLED

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 06:42:00 +0000

YOU SHOULD HAVE CALLED
•Patrick's experience as a retail customer.
•2023 number fun!! Now in percentages!
•Positive consumer financial positivity (via AP and Axios).
•Turning lemonade into lemons, featuring Ultimate Spider-Man #1!
•A new home for our Incentive/Ratio Variants!
•A very specific rule for earning the 2024 "I Love You But I've Chosen Comics" Sale t-shirt.
Contest of Challengers #667

ECONOMIC-CABAL

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 14:33:00 +0000

ECONOMIC-CABAL
•Oooohhhhh! Episode 666! Sooo spooookyyyyy!!
•Stacked deliveries really suck!
•More complaining about how Diamond ships out product.
•Product Costs vs. Operational Costs
•Kamen Rider toys vs AEW action figures.
•60,000 copies of Heartstopper Vol.5.
•Marvel Hallmark ornaments.
•Help us help you (read the emails we send!).
Contest of Challengers #666

A BURDEN TO SURVIVORS

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 09:20:00 +0000

A BURDEN TO SURVIVORS
•Arielle Free is in Chicago and Patrick had no idea (non-comics).
•Remembering the contributions of George Brower III (Patrick's Dad) to the early days of Challengers.
•We got our WTBW bookplates!!
•DC as a company = Villains. DC as a publisher = Heros.
•Other shops Instagram pages.
•FRAN's KITCHEN!
•Lunar shipping costs vs Diamond shipping costs.
•Paring down the $#!t you own (and why Dal will be a posthumous burden).
Contest of Challengers #665

20 = 1

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 07:39:00 +0000

20 = 1
•Happy Christmas!
•Nick Piterra's AX-WIELDER JON is here!
•December's messed-up New Release lists.
•WHERE THE BODY WAS bookplate update.
•Diamond's retailer calendar for 2024.
•DC's Batman "Returnability."
•Are you excited for Image's GHOST MACHINE?
•Opening some presents!
Contest of Challengers #664

THE PIPELINE

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 03:03:00 +0000

THE PIPELINE
•New Marvel Legends for early 2024.
•Hasbro is feeling the same issues as the comics industry.
•Advent calendars.
•LUCY KNISLEY is coming back to Challengers and we're working with BFF Bikes for that event!
•WHERE THE BODY WAS week 1 sales.
•Subscribers not managing their Manage Comics accounts.
•How the comics industry is like a spider plant AND like an action figure of Marvel's Evertt Ross.
Contest of Challengers #663

FALLING OVER ON THE SLOPES

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 06:17:00 +0000

FALLING OVER ON THE SLOPES
•So many semi cab horns!
•Less of a Palace than you'd hope.
•Share the GOOD, not just the bad.
•PINE AND MERRIMAC #1 is SO GOOD!!
•A disturbing lacy of Body bookplates.
•If only new comic shipments came on the same day each week.
•An electronic Gift Card is just as good as a physical Gift Card.
•Data Nerd Dal loves the CovrPrice 'Reflective' feature.
Contest of Challengers #662

I GUESS YOU COULD ALSO JUST KILL ME

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 03:10:00 +0000

I GUESS YOU COULD ALSO JUST KILL ME
•Comic shops undergoing changes.
•The reality of store events.
•Event Spaces
•No more Back Issues?
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Mile High's Chuck Rozanski responds to Phil Boyle. Dal responds to them both.
•Comics discussed in this episode:
If You Find This I'm Already Dead #1
Action Comics #1061
Avengers Twilight #1
Duke #1
The One Hand #1/The Six Fingers #1
Contest of Challengers #661

https://icv2.com/articles/talk-back/view/55717/chuck-rozanski-mile-high-comics-can-comics-be-saved

https://www.comicsbeat.com/anyone-comics-is-closing-and-reopening-around-the-corner/

HOW MUCH MORE ROPE?

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 02:48:00 +0000

HOW MUCH MORE ROPE?
•Post-Thanksgiving retail sales.
•Retailers talking about the Biz.
•A new 1-star review.
•All we're really asking is for you to pay for the books you asked us to buy for you.
Contest of Challengers #660

TOON IN WITH US

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 03:29:00 +0000

TOON IN WITH US
•What we sell vs what we buy as consumers.
•Vintage shops vs not.
•Wouldn't it be fun to sell comic book trading cards again?
•Our adventure on Toon In With Me.
•Broken web links.
•The free comic books for 2024's Free Comic Book Day.
Contest of Challengers #659

COME BACK! GET EXCITED!

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 03:32:00 +0000

COME BACK! GET EXCITED!
•The Marvels was pretty fun!
•Some comics are just bad.
•LOTS of retailer chatter this week about the state of comics.
•What big names can revitalize the Big 2 publishers?
•Imagine trying to run a shop today with only cycle sheets and no subscription management system.
•What does the future of the shop's interior look like?
Contest of Challengers #658

A LITTLE LESS HAPPY

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 03:30:00 +0000

A LITTLE LESS HAPPY

•Reading publisher previews on Box.com.
•Most comic retailers have been at this a long time.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•The What and Whys of Draft Orders (as promised!!).
•Comics talked about in this episode:
Crave
Titans: Beast World
Batman Santa Claus Silent Knight
•We're having a Back Issue Sale in late November!
Contest of Challengers #657

STOP GIGGLING LIKE A CHILD

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 16:50:00 +0000

STOP GIGGLING LIKE A CHILD

•Wimpy Kid thief.
•Health insurance premiums.
•What's up with Blue's old location?
•Marvel barcode placement.
•SO MANY PRH emails.
•How we would format cover descriptions for invoices.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
      Masterpiece #1
      Somna #1
      Batman Off World #1
      Lotus Land #1
      Animal Pound #1
      Captain Marvel #1

Contest of Challengers #656

Smash-and-grab burglars plow vehicles into River North boutiques
https://cwbchicago.com/2023/10/chicago-river-north-smash-and-grab-burglary-sneaker-boutique-little-black-dress-news.html

Car con Carne (Candy Corn Carne)
https://carconcarne.com/2023/10/23/a-visit-to-13th-floor-haunted-house-with-patrick-brower-of-challengers-comics-episode-897/

NO MORE SACRED COWS

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 03:09:00 +0000

NO MORE SACRED COWS

•It's true; we'll eat ALL the cows.
•This episode is kind of a stark look at the industry from a sales perspective, but also from other sides.
•It's a lot of, 'how things have changed.'
•It's not dark, but it sure ain't bright.
•It's just what you expect from CoC, we guess?
•We sadly can't be your everything.
•Especially if your 'everything' includes many single issue comics.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
     White Widow #1
     The Deviant #1
     Universal Monsters Dracula #1
     Beneath the Trees Where Nobody Sees #1

Contest of Challengers #655

UNDERSERVED

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 03:43:00 +0000

UNDERSERVED
•We're back! For this week, anyway.
•Wizards of the Coast product will no longer be available from Penguin Random House.
•The dwindling sales footprint of Magic the Gathering.
•Dark Tower buys G-Mart's stores!
•Thanks, Patrons!
•How our subscriptions work (for any new subscribers).
•Brian Posehn came to Challengers!
•Daniel Warren Johnson and the appeal of Transformers.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
Nights #1 (and #2 and #3)
Contest of Challengers #654

THE ONE LINE PITCH with HOLLY AITCHISON

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 05:19:00 +0000

THE ONE LINE PITCH with HOLLY AITCHISON
Patrick is joined by longtime Challengers supporter, Patron and friend, HUMANOIDS Director of Sales HOLLY AITCHISON!
It's a conversation that could have lasted forever about all things comics, publishing and retail (but it's mainly about Morgan and Esther)!
Holly illustration by Katie Longua https://www.klongua.com/
Contest of Challengers #653

SHELVADOR

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 05:32:00 +0000

SHELVADOR
•The Plight of the 1950s Crosley Shelvador Automatic Refrigerator.
•Calling Peoples Gas, AGAIN.
•Breaking up longer episodes.
•Receiving graphic novels packed standing on their spines.
•Breaking down our first Lunar invoice containing Image books.
•Listen to all these amazing events coming up!!
•The Ultimate Guide to Comic Books!
•Comics talked about in this episode:
Wonder Woman #1 & #2
The Flash #1
Urban Legendz
Contest of Challengers #652

NO MORE EASY ANSWERS

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 02:39:00 +0000

NO MORE EASY ANSWERS
•Unboxing original Becca Hillburn art!
•The 3 ways orders are placed for the product we sell:
1. Initial Orders (including New To Order and Order Increases)
2. Final Order Cutoffs
3. Reorders
•We're changing how we order!
•We're also making a change in how we source our comic supplies.
•Check out the Evie and the Helsings Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/stevebryant/evie-and-the-helsings-12/

Contest of Challengers #651

COMING SOON

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 02:30:00 +0000

COMING SOON
•The current run of Amazing Spider-Man
•The JOY Reward Program experience
•Draft orders
•Sending invoices
•We do not want to check your bag
•Small Press submissions
•Covers
Contest of Challengers #650

14 YEARS LATER

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 03:16:00 +0000

14 YEARS LATER
•The current (meteorological) climate of business.
•14 years of Contest of Challengers! What is wrong with us??
•All of the paying jobs we've held in life.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•2 Manage Comics topics discussed
Mail-order subscribers not being able to pay invoices
Previously purchased subscriber books reappearing in their cart
•Atom Eve
•Dear Comic Creators, always include a PDF of your book in emails to retailers. Thank you.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
Rumpus Room #1
The Madness #1
Superman Annual 2023
The Penguin #1
Batman Gargoyle of Gotham #1
Fire & Ice: Welcome to Smallville #1
Contest of Challengers #649

NEGATIVE DIFFERENTIAL RESISTANCE

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 03:20:00 +0000

NEGATIVE DIFFERENTIAL RESISTANCE
•Our UPS driver's thoughts on how the comics are boxed, guest-starring Jeanna Challenger.
•The saga of our light fixtures.
•Pitching upcoming comics on this podcast before FOC's.
•The continual quest for returnability.
•Our differing philosophies regarding our weekly New Comics Instagram pitch videos.
Contest of Challengers #648

THAT'S THE EXCLUSIVE PART

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 05:46:00 +0000

THAT'S THE EXCLUSIVE PART
•RDJ AI
•It's SDCC week! We know the official name is Comic Con International San Diego, but SDCC gets to the point quicker.
•Ryan Browne is signing at Challengers in 2 days!!
•The amount of solicitation emails and phone calls is completely out of hand. Go Huskies!
•Omnibussing
•DC's offerings for October 2023.
•New Marvel books, also for October 2023.
Contest of Challengers #647

"OH, THE CHEAP STUFF"

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 01:48:00 +0000

"OH, THE CHEAP STUFF"
•No, we don't sell Mylar; we only sell "the cheap stuff."
•"Shops Discuss the Often Difficult Year So Far in Comics Retail" (READ IT HERE)
•Yes, Black Lives Still Matter.
•The Department of Truth team takes on Universal Monsters' DRACULA.
•Will THE MIDNITE SHOW be our new The Sixth Gun??
•Pre-Paid Pre-Orders.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
Children of the Vault #1
Harley Quinn Black White Redder #1
Hawkgirl #1
Contest of Challengers #646

LEGS OF ANY KIND

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 06:44:00 +0000

LEGS OF ANY KIND
•Office jobs.
•The Toys That Made Us.
•The mid-year check-in with David Harper for SKTCHD.com.
•Inconsistent publisher invoicing.
•OF THUNDER & LIGHTNING from Silver Sprocket looks great!
•The first week of KNIGHT TERRORS (pronounced 'KUH-nite tuh-TER-errs") sales.
•Comic talked about in this episode:
Of Thunder & Lightning
Ribbon Queen #2
Contest of Challengers #645

A TWO-HANDER

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 02:16:00 +0000

A TWO-HANDER
•Hasbro invoicing.
•Our Jeff & Tillie signing.
•An AEW Fight Forever interlude.
•The Devil's Cut email.
•Insignia covers.
•The latest Tilting at Windmills column by Brian Hibbs.
•Comic talked about in this episode:
The Devil's Cut
Swan Songs #1, #3
Plot Holes #1
Knight Terrors #1, KT First Blood
Superman Last Days of Lex Luthor #1
Sacrificers #1, #2, #3
Contest of Challengers #644

BECAUSE, COMICS

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 05:53:00 +0000

BECAUSE, COMICS
It's a special off-site episode, recorded at Club Lago in Chicago's River North neighborhood!* Thrill to the sounds of an active Italian eatery as we have a scintillating conversation with the man who came all the way from Canada to taste some Chicken Marsala, Manage Comics' BRIAN GARSIDE!!
You've heard us talk about Manage Comics a whole lot the past year and a half, now hear about it from the man who built it!!

*not the first episode to be recorded here, nor the last, I'm sure.

Contest of Challengers #643

FIREJET AND JUMPCLIFFER

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 00:16:00 +0000

FIREJET AND JUMPCLIFFER
•Why publishers decide to do second printings (possibly).
•Robert Kirkman's fun publishing ideas.
•John Romita Sr and the definitive Spider-Man artists.
•Kelly Thompson!!
•Avengers Inc.
•What is a Green Tea Shot?
•Comic talked about in this episode:
Void Rivals #1
Contest of Challengers #642

WE CAN KEEP YOUR SECRETS

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 02:36:00 +0000

WE CAN KEEP YOUR SECRETS
•A change in Reward tiers.
•Void Rivals #1
•What's the #1 thing retailers want?
•Kelly Thompson!!
•Transformer questions.
•Diamond shipping fees…
•Comics talked about in this episode:
Sins of the Salton Sea #2, #3
Ribbon Queen #1
Contest of Challengers #641

HISTORICALLY, NOT CURRENTLY

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 02:15:00 +0000

HISTORICALLY, NOT CURRENTLY
•Business Is.
•Dal on collecting.
•So many super-hero popcorn tins…
•The end of Moon Knight and a new start for Captain America.
•Saga sales numbers.
•Eisner award drama.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
Barnstormers #1
Fishflies #1 (again)
The Cull #1 (again)
In Hell We Fight #1 (again)
Wonder Woman #800
Creed #1
Contest of Challengers #640

TO THE MOON

Mon, 29 May 2023 05:17:00 +0000

TO THE MOON
•When Dal gets angry…
•Is Marvel raising cover prices?
•Image Comics leaves Diamond Comic Distributors.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
The Hunger and The Dusk #1 & #2
The Schlub #1
Fishflies #1
The Cull #1
Klik Klik Boom #1
Contest of Challengers #639

FOILED!

Mon, 22 May 2023 01:59:00 +0000

FOILED!
•Marvel Legends Puffadder build-a-figure.
•Interacting with our customer-facing tablet.
•The Great British Bump Off #2 misprint resolution, thanks to Dark Horse's Amy Huey.
•Recent ways Diamond has actually helped us.
•A disastrous trucking accident delays Marvel and PRH books for Diamond customers.
•Restocking reorders! Pins! Posters! Supplies! Andy Bell! Rachel Bard?
•SOME of the many things Patrick hates from the July Marvel Previews catalog!
Contest of Challengers #638

MAKING IT FUN FOR EVERYONE

Mon, 15 May 2023 01:55:00 +0000

MAKING IT FUN FOR EVERYONE
•A Kyle Starts kidnapping, including a phone call to Melbourne.
•Free Comic Book Day 2023 recap, including the live AAW Wrestling show we took Kyle, Steph and Gabo to.
•No Green Lantern rings for GL #1!
•CTA Bus ticketing nonsense.
•We never add un-asked-for books to subscriber pulls lists without sending an email first.
•Our new Rewards Program offers MORE than what the pre-order discount did.
•Comics discussed in this episode:
Flash #800
The Nasty #3
In Hell We Fight #1
Parasocial GN

Contest of Challengers #637

ARTSPOSITION

Mon, 08 May 2023 01:49:00 +0000

ARTSPOSITION
•Patrick is joined by the next generation of comic book fan, Jess and Allie!
Two people new to Challengers and recent to comics, but enthusiastic and ready to read! Their journey has only begun...
Contest of Challengers #636

THE CHOICE TO DISENGAGE

Mon, 01 May 2023 03:20:00 +0000

THE CHOICE TO DISENGAGE
•Breaking IDW corporate news!
•The layout of Previews magazine.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Sub services (I don't actually know what that means, but it was in my notes…)
•Challengers Prime.
•Customer View and our new register tablet.
•Comics talked about in this episode:
Titans #1
Cyborg #1
Dark Spaces Good Deeds #1
Antarctica #1-#3

Contest of Challengers #635

IT'S EASIER THAN IT FEELS

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 02:18:00 +0000

IT'S EASIER THAN IT FEELS
•We're sad and tired.
•Our plans for this year's Free Comic Book Day!
•It's easier than it feels.
•W0RLDTR33 #1.
•The Pre-Order discount is going away as of May 1st. In its place is a NEW Loyalty/Rewards program!
Contest of Challengers #634

NOT PERFECT = A LOT OF GARBAGE

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 02:42:00 +0000

NOT PERFECT = A LOT OF GARBAGE
•SO many Point Of Sale choice available for comic shops!
•Expanded hours!
•Our subscriber discount is becoming something else…
•Our Friday Morning Emails.
•Free Comic Book Day with KYLE STARKS and STEPHANIE MIDED!
•Patrick does not like when comics arrive shrink-wrapped in bundles.
•UPS was so late today!!
•Dal is not excited for DC's 2-month NIGHT TERRORS event.
•Pre-order TITANS #1!!
•Comics discussed in this episode:
GREEN LANTERN #1
BATMAN THE BRAVE AND THE BOLD #1
Contest of Challengers #633

PUBLISHER SUPPORT

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 02:39:00 +0000

PUBLISHER SUPPORT
•Is "graphic novel" the right word for what we sell?
•Night Farters.
•Patrick is okay again.
•Dungeons and Dragons.
•Our 15th Anniversary Party was a swell time!
•Our (separate) C2E2 adventures.
•2023 sales-to-date (spoiler: not good).
•Oversaturation!
•DANGER! And Other Unknown Risks.
•Thanks, Patrons!
Contest of Challengers #632

SWEET CONSTANCY

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 06:03:00 +0000

SWEET CONSTANCY
•Challengers is 15!!
•The Post-Covid Correction Period.
•A deliberate lack of Back Issues.
•The X-Men Timeline.
•We DON'T Like Ike!
•2 new Bios for Patrick!
Contest of Challengers #631

CT-HEY! DON'T PARK THERE!

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 01:16:00 +0000

CT-HEY! DON'T PARK THERE!
•Cars engulfed by flame.
•Positive Shopify changes.
•New Sign Holders (that no one will notice, but that's the point).
•Shelf rearranging and a much larger 25% OFF section!
•When the CTA parked on the sidewalk, blocking our front door.
•Smart Filer and Search.
•Shopify item importing slow down.
•Here are the comics we are excited about from this episode:
W0RLDTR33
GREAT BRITISH BUMP-OFF (again!!)
TITANS
WONDER WOMAN
UNSTOPPABLE DOOM PATROL
THE NASTY
PEACEMAKER TRIES HARD!!
Contest of Challengers #630

LACK OF MOMENTUM

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 02:04:00 +0000

LACK OF MOMENTUM
•A Challengers business fact: If a comic sells very well for us, it is usually ignored by the mainstream.
•John Allison is very smart.
•The missing "A" cover of Invincible Iron Man #4.
•Checking-in PRH replacement books.
•Patrick is on Episode 825 of Car Con Carne (https://carconcarne.com/2023/03/14/challengers-comics-celebrates-15th-anniversary-at-club-lago-episode-825/) plus other interviews.
•Manage Comics has 2 really great changes this week that make life easier! Thanks, Brian (and team!)!
•Spay Illinois (https://www.spayillinois.org/)
•There's are the comics we are excited about from this episode: WHERE MONSTERS LIE #4, GREAT BRITISH BUMP-OFF #1, BATMAN ONE BAD DAY RA'S AL GHUL, HAIRBALL #1, NIGHTWING #105.
Contest of Challengers #629

YOU'RE THE WORST PART OF COMIC COLLECTING

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 04:56:00 +0000

YOU'RE THE WORST PART OF COMIC COLLECTING
•Really good comics: INDIGO CHILDREN; NO/ONE and (hopefully) PARASOCIAL.
•All the Variant Covers for March 15th. Also, the last time we complain about variant covers on this podcast.
•Chargeback BS from a Pumpkin-Headed D!p$#!t with no shame.
•The Fables Wellness Chart.
•The sewer pipe in our trash room is possessed.
•Patrick in Publishers Weekly (and on Car Con Carne)!
•RJ City has some new names for Dal (RJ City does not appear on this podcast)!
Contest of Challengers #628

2 BUGS MAKE A RIGHT

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 05:22:00 +0000

2 BUGS MAKE A RIGHT
•Removing an item from the Shopify register during the payment phase.
•Extra-large transactions cause large bugs.
•Guns!
•The X-23 Deadly Regenesis solicitation is a large paragraph of nothing.
•2 Kickstarter campaigns of note (yes, we can be bought)!
•Fast food apps.
•Funko woes.
•Upcoming books of note: Neighbors #1 (BOOM!), Indigo Children #1 (Image), Rock Gods of Memphis, Tennessee (Dark Horse).
•Patrons!
•Lonesome Hunters signed bookplates!
Contest of Challengers #627

IN YOUR MIND CALENDAR

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 22:51:00 +0000

IN YOUR MIND CALENDAR
No time for notes—we're already late!
Contest of Challengers #626

SOMEWHERE BTW SKEPTICAL & AMBIVALENT

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 02:12:00 +0000

SOMEWHERE BTW SKEPTICAL & AMBIVALENT
•"You look like you work in a comic shop!"
•3 Shopify support tickets at one time.
•What Shopify considers a "discount".
•"The trick was… sort of pedantic."
•UPS BS
•Our website is now a webstore.
•Sale aftermath.
•Marvel releases for May 2023.
•Challengers' social media audit.
Contest of Challengers #625

SCREAMING INTO THE DARK with TIM SEELEY

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 05:24:00 +0000

SCREAMING INTO THE DARK with TIM SEELEY
• It's a full-on comic industry takedown with Tim Seeley! Join 2 grizzled comic industry veterans as they talk about the state of things today while remembering all the wonderful nonsense they've been a part of these past 21 years.
•Why are we doing this if it benefits no one?
•The death of experience.
•Screaming into the dark.
•Too early or too dumb.
Colt Noble TV commercial: https://vimeo.com/8249958
LOCAL MAN #1 is out Febryary 22nd!!
Contest of Challengers #624

WE'RE NOT GETTING IN YOUR WAY

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 02:05:00 +0000

WE'RE NOT GETTING IN YOUR WAY
•A Mystery Project is coming together…
•Working with Creators on store projects.
•It's SALE time!!!!!!
•Manage Comics, ever improving.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•The WINGER Analogy.
•Placing Final Orders during the Holidays causes problems in February.
•Weekly comic book release schedules are horribly unbalanced.
•Net Pricing is NOT Retail Pricing!
•Lunar vs Diamond when it comes to Overages.
Contest of Challengers #623

HUMMUS YOUR TIME

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 01:53:00 +0000

HUMMUS YOUR TIME
•When T-Shirts went mainstream.
•Our self-made day-to-day accountant.
•"All Ego" Ethan Page vs Karate Man.
•The confusion behind the collected release of Wonder Woman Historia The Amazons.
•Pre-Ordering thru our vendors.
•We do not ship internationally.
•Last-minute event changes.
•PR companies wanting events at the shop that we don't think will work for them.
•Finding new artists (@jettilalewis) is always exciting!
•TITANS by Tom Taylor and Nicola Scott is going to be huge for us!!
Contest of Challengers #622

ABDICATION OF VALUES

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 03:45:00 +0000

ABDICATION OF VALUES
•Would you want text messages from Challengers? How much contact is too much?
•Finding a good Filtering/Sorting tool for our new website.
•Building 'Collections' for the new site.
•comiXology no more! It's so weird to have been a store for the entirety of their digital comics platform.
•Ordering DC Comics during the Dawn of DC.
•The Great British Bump Off!
•Prices for Bags and Boards are rising again.
•There are still too many covers per issue per week.
•Problems with this week's Instagram video.
•Buy EVERYTHING Kyle Starks creates!!
•Stephanie Phillips will be signing on Wednesday, January 25th!!
Contest of Challengers #621

PIG 8008

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 00:32:00 +0000

PIG 8008
•Comics and Comics Retail is like a broken exercise bike.
•Patrick was on Off Panel with David Harper! It was… dark…?
•UPS deliveries, all day, every day!
•Are you caught up with all your comics?
•A ¢hange for $aga.
•Why customers can't pre-order ratio variants from Challengers.
•Helping creators help retailers.
Contest of Challengers #620

ISBN13+5

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 02:35:00 +0000

ISBN13+5
•New Challengers Website—Coming Soon! Like, after the Sale, soon.
•Commerce-focused
•Advanced filtering/searching!
•How many Holiday cards did not get picked up in December?
•Searching "Marvel TP" in inventory is like just searching for "a".
•Dal's dream version of Manage Comics.
•Aside from this one, Patrick recorded 2 other podcasts this week! That guy LOVES hearing himself talk!!
Contest of Challengers #619

5/90/2/2/2

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 00:34:00 +0000

5/90/2/2/2
•Instagram videos vs Instagram reels.
•2022, a full year without ComicSuite.
•Entering 2023 WITH Manage Comics.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Answering questions for a Sorbonne Nouvelle University student.
•Mission Statement (which should have been at the start of this episode)!
•What we're looking forward to in the 1st quarter of 2023!
•So many events already planned!
Contest of Challengers #618

WEIRDO HEADWINDS

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 04:17:00 +0000

WEIRDO HEADWINDS
•March solicitations from DC and Marvel. But mainly DC.
•What the cold has done to the store and Patrick's car.
•Next week is HUGE, but not as huge as we originally thought…
•Will Final Order Cutoffs ever get easier/quicker to do?
•Fun with the shop printer.
•Santa came to Challengers!
•The aftershocks of Aftershock.
•Rumiko Takahashi.
•When promotions don't land.
Contest of Challengers #617

THE HAMMOCK GETS DEEPER

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 03:30:00 +0000

THE HAMMOCK GETS DEEPER
•Holiday sales have yet to really be a thing. Thanks, crappy weather!!
•IT TOOK LUKE is on a bunch of 2022 "Best Of" lists!
•There's no news at the end of the year.
•Boxing up out Variant Covers.
•Too much off-the-sales-floor overstock!!
•Manga volume sales are hot or cold, rarely warm.
•Taking the wheels off the Drama shelves.
•"Christmas x3" by The Divorce Gun!! (You've been warned...)
Contest of Challengers #616

IT'S NOT SLAPDASH

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 00:09:00 +0000

IT'S NOT SLAPDASH
•Address-ing the situation.
•DC 1st Issue Special vs Marvel Premiere.
•Dal has read Batman/Spawn for you! But not TO you.
•Kyle Starks is on a roll!
• AI art in place of human artist art.
•Doctor Strange returns.
•Starting over at #1.
•Stella Challenger probably has more books on her Pull List than you do.
Contest of Challengers #615

CARDED

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 06:10:00 +0000

CARDED
•A podcast by any other name…
•The 2022 Challengers Holiday cards are in!
•Clearing out lapsed subscription dividers.
•The publishing imbalance of a 5-Wednesday month.
•When Stocky reporting goes wrong.
•Haphazard discounts with Shopify and the Manage Comics Order Helper Tile.
•Dal's 2 biggest retail holiday pet peeves. No, Patrick is not 1 of them.
•Marvel's Voices Family SNIKT!

Contest of Challengers #614

OUT BY WEEK 1

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 04:39:00 +0000

OUT BY WEEK 1
•Recorded on Black Friday!
•Decorating for Christmas.
•Just what are Variant Covers (by Chip Zdarsky via his Substack).
•Laying out the New Releases each week.
•Eminem's exclusive Spider-Man cover.
•WHERE MONSTERS LIE by Kyle Starks and Piotr Kowalski is highly recommended!
•Wait, did someone say KYLE STARKS?!?
•Gift ideas from Challengers!

Contest of Challengers #613

BEFORE THE DAWN

Sun, 20 Nov 2022 23:54:00 +0000

BEFORE THE DAWN
•Too many Spawn variant covers.
•The "DAWN of DC."
•Refunding website orders.
•The Manage Comics Order Helper Tile is LIVE!
•Initial order fun.
•AMC (the channel) Comics.
•Bad Egg Comics.
•Ultimate Fallout #4 cover scam?
Contest of Challengers #612

OH YES, COMICS

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 03:25:00 +0000

OH YES, COMICS
•Our visit to the EXCELSIOR! Art Show opening!
•Why it's harder to recognize new subscribers.
•James Acaster! What? This is a comic podcast and he's a comic!
•We just saw Black Panther Wakanda Forever and really liked it!
•Why Shopify keeps pushing back the approval of the Manage Comics Order Helper Tile.
•Dealing win non-subscriber special order requests.
•Which graphic novels look to be this year's best Holiday gifts?
•Happy 10 ½ Anniversary to Aw Yeah Comics in beautiful downtown Skokie! Guest-starring store manager Joe Crohn!
*Art Baltazar is not on this podcast despite being in the episode photo*
Contest of Challengers #611

WE HUNGER

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 02:51:00 +0000

WE HUNGER
•Will Morris starts us off! Thanks, Will!!
•Image has several upcoming books we are REALLY looking forward to.
•Batman/Spawn is coming! It's after Final Order Cutoff, but its Final Order Cutoff period was only 3 days.
•Final Order Cutoff windows are getting longer AND shorter!
•DC has just announced 10 DC/Spawn covers and half of them FOC this weekend!
•Galactus hungers…
Contest of Challengers #610

"WHAT A $#!THOLE"

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 02:47:00 +0000

•Welcome to the brand new Challengers Podcastitorium!
•Diamond Replenishment shipments.
•Reminiscing over ChallengeJR's (ChallengeJuniors).
•ALL AGAINST ALL #1 is really good!
•Diamond Best Practice Awards.
•January solicitations.
•"What a shithole!"

Contest of Challengers #609

THE CONVERSATIONALIST

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 03:44:00 +0000

THE CONVERSATIONALIST
•It's an all Pizza-and-Beer episode! So, of course that means no Dal.
•Hailey is back! https://instagram.com/chicomic_girl/
•Fancy, wooden comic book storage boxes!
•Tattoos!
•The ideal comic book shop!
•Actual social media experts working with comic shops.

https://romanyhouseboxes.com/
10% Off Promo Code: CHICOMICGIRL

Kaye Publicity Retailer Rx: https://kayepublicity.com/retailers/

Contest of Challengers #608

BOOBIE-ROCKETS, AWAY!

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 01:37:00 +0000

BOOBIE-ROCKETS, AWAY!
It's a 3-man announce team this week as Patrick and Dal visit one of their all-time favorite comic creators (and human beings)!
WHO is it? WHAT do they talk about? WHY are they there?

1. You'll find out a few minutes in.
2. Lots of stuff! Mazinger Z (or, as it was called in the US, Tranzor Z), baseball, NYCC, and a whole lot about their current, mega-successful, one of the year's best, comic series!
3. Football, actually.
4. There was no fourth question.

Contest of Challengers #607

MAIN COVER B

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 00:35:00 +0000

MAIN COVER B
•Plugged ears make recording an audio project so fun!
•Just announced Batman Spawn covers.
•Shopify missteps: Active vs Draft
•Being ghosted by new Subscribers.
•Curating in reverse.
•An update about GIANT DAYS on Kickstarter.
•Dan and Jason were the best!
•Marketing to the Sidekicks crowd.
Contest of Challengers #606

VIRTUE & VICE

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 01:15:00 +0000

VIRTUE & VICE
•Surprise! Now we're BOTH sick!
•Sep 2022 sales are down from both Aug 2022 and Sep 2021. Sigh.
•HEART EYES #2 is excellent!
•Why do 2nd issue sales fall so far from #1's? Like, 80% far.
•Getting our Holiday plans underway (we started weeks ago).
•GIANT DAYS on Kickstarter.
•The legend that is Carlos Pacheco.
•Marvel Legends news from Hasbro Pulse.
•Thanks, Patrons!
Contest of Challengers #605

NOTHING SPECIAL

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 03:58:48 +0000

NOTHING SPECIAL
•Dal returns! Sorry?
•Challengers is/has "nothing special."
•Dal visited Fantom Comics in DC!
•Dark Horse is leaving Diamond!
•DUCKS by Kate Beaton!
•Batman Day 2022 is history.
•Library wreaths.
•MJ loves Batman/Spawn??
•More covers now than ever before!
Contest of Challengers #604

A LITERARY COMPONENT

Sun, 18 Sep 2022 22:56:17 +0000

Patrick is joined by @chicomic_girl, Hailey Dezort!
Hailey is a wonderfully excited comic fan who has an unparalleled enthusiasm and a penchant for sharing her comic book love via Instagram/YouTube/Livestreams/Podcasts. Her fandom is infectious, and this conversation only scratches the surface of her knowledge and dedication to this amazing artform we all love. After listening to Hailey talk about comics, you'll love them even more. Plus, you know, Patrick is there, too.

Follow Hailey:
https://www.instagram.com/chicomic_girl/
https://linktr.ee/chicomicgirl

Contest of Challengers #603

WIL MOSS

Sun, 11 Sep 2022 23:53:07 +0000

WIL MOSS
Patrick is joined by Marvel Editor WIL MOSS!
They talk about Wil becoming a comics fan, going to college in Chicago and his journey to comic book editing super-stardom! It's a fun conversation with 2 people on different sides of the comic book industry united by the love of comics!! Comics are the best and Wil is/was Editor for some of THE BEST comics (Unbeatable Squirrel Girl, anyone?)!!

Contest of Challengers #602

FULL CIRCLE

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 05:47:51 +0000

FULL CIRCLE
•It's AEW All Out weekend in Chicago, so we start with some rasslin' talk. Sorry. Not a lot, though.
•DC Comics are now available from a second distributor!
•In this post-covid retail landscape, prices keep going up!
Including: Magic Cards, Backer Boards and POP Vinyls.
•Ordering from Southern Hobby.
•Fantastic Four Full Circle.
•Thanks, Patrons!

Contest of Challengers #601

ADDITIVE TO THE PROCESS #600!!

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 02:12:48 +0000

ADDITIVE TO THE PROCESS
•The 4^th Invincible Compendium!
•Why DON'T we buy dirty coins and sports photos?
•"I had to ask!" No, you did not.
•New Marvel Legends packaging.
•We do not ship storage boxes.
•Recommending new series.
•ALZ5K 2022.
•Politics in-store.
•How great is Rachel Bard??
•32 Years!!
Contest of Challengers #600!!

TERRIBLE LONG-TERM STRATEGY

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 02:25:47 +0000

TERRIBLE LONG-TERM STRATEGY
•Tom Palmer R.I.P.
•Visiting the Bill Sienkiewicz art exhibit in Libertyville.
•New difficulties getting into our own store!
•The November 2022 solicits are… plentiful…
•Visiting 2 other comic shops.
•The tragic end to our safety pin banner.
•X-Terminators #1 = Fun!
•Trying to keep up with new subscribers/subscriptions.
Contest of Challengers #599

MANUFACTUTRED COLLECTIBLES

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 01:45:22 +0000

MANUFACTUTRED COLLECTIBLES
•The audio quality of last episode.
•This week's Manage Comics Thoughtstream.
•Hachette credit hold.
•Tom Brevoort's Substack is pretty fun.
•99¢ BACK ISSUE SALE!
•Freebies vs Collectibles.

Contest of Challengers #598

ACTIVATION!

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 02:12:20 +0000

ACTIVATION!
•Patrick, Dal and MJ talk about C2E2 in a car with shitty audio. It was a 20-minute conversation in which 10 minutes were completely unlistenable. We have GOT to turn off the phone Bluetooth before we record in the car. Sorry. Bad parts are edited out of the official release, but left in for the Patreon Raw Audio release.
•The Art Institute lions have a dark history with Patrick's feet.
•Lunar Landing!
•A "C" mask at Disney (thanks, Suzie!!).
•The first in a series of IG videos for the new releases.
•Whatnot, and how we don't understand it.
•Thanks, Patrons!

YA(wn)

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 02:06:35 +0000

YA(wn)
•SILVERLINE is out now!
•We are years late in making a Young Adult section.
•Manga is a Medium, not a Genre. Except, it is a Genre.
•The eventual return of a Discount Graphic Novel section.
•We wish we were better at promoting the comics we enjoy reading. All of them.
•Manage Comics 2.0 functionality we're looking forward to.
•Next week is our Wes Craig singing, a Lunar Distribution seminar and C2E2!
Contest of Challengers #596

ALL THE COOKIES

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 02:42:12 +0000

ALL THE COOKIES
•Late deliveries.
•Fun toys.
•Special guests (in the store, not on this episode).
•SDCC comic announcements (so far).
•BOOM! Studios Kickstarters.
•Other stuff, we promise.

Contest of Challengers #595

SITUATIONS ARE FLUID

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 18:57:08 +0000

SITUATIONS ARE FLUID
•Friday's (not at all heavy) rain causes more grief.
•Another SQUARE outage.
•We hope this podcast (as a whole, not just this episode) is informative yet also entertaining.
•The recovery of Patrick's comics…
•More comics industry theft (but not at Challengers)
•We'll work with anyone if it's good promotion for us.

Contest of Challengers #594

YOU WILL NOT BELIEVE THE ENDING!

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 00:45:32 +0000

YOU WILL NOT BELIEVE THE ENDING!
•Another AT&T story! Who could have seen this coming?
•Where has Dal been?!?
•A shattered window and alarms going off in the middle of the night!
•A JENNY FRISON signing with a violent outburst!
•A Dal HUEL interlude.
•An ending we never saw coming!!

Contest of Challengers #593

AN ORGANIC VALUE

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 05:04:35 +0000

AN ORGANIC VALUE
All these topics are discussed in this episode, BUT in a different order than they are listed here! Why? Because I wrote my notes BEFORE we recorded, because I am a G-D professional!!
•Thief?
•Great news for the creators of EIGHT BILLION GENIES!
•June sales (-30 on Wednesday).
•It's two weeks after Patrick's comics were stolen, and he has an update from the detective on the case.
•Answering questions for David Harper.
•Patrons!
•(Many) New bookmarks!

Contest of Challengers #592

OH YEAH, THAT'S A THING

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 06:22:43 +0000

OH YEAH, THAT'S A THING
•Burritooooo!
•The new DC and Marvel catalogs are (kind of) out, for product shipping in September.
•License shifting between publishers.
•It's one week after Patrick's comics being stolen.
•IDW Originals: Dark Spaces Wildfire #1.
•Shifting special order item codes between 'New to Order' and Shipping make it almost impossible to get people their orders.
•We're so excited for you to finally get to read Chip Zdarsky's PUBLIC DOMAIN.
•Dal has very good things to say about the huge Marvel crossover A.X.E. Judgment Day #1.
•"Hey dipshit, don't be a dipshit."

Contest of Challengers #591

THEY STOLE A LIFETIME

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 01:08:06 +0000

The meat of this episode is a harrowing tale of the worst thing that can happen to a lifetime comic book collector.

And then, Patrick visited a trio of comic shops in Asheville, NC over the past weekend.
Sadly, there were no T-Rex's.

Contest of Challengers #590

SOMEWHERE WITH A T-REX

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 04:58:21 +0000

SOMEWHERE WITH A T-REX

This one's a mystery! Who's on it? What do they talk about? WHO KNOWS?!?
Okay, we know that it's Dal and MJ, and they're probably talking about store stuff and distributors and comics and what not.
But actual specifics? Well, neither of them write these previews, and I haven't listened to their episode, so let's all be surprised together!

Contest of Challengers #589

CR-APP-TACULAR

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 19:32:41 +0000

CR-APP-TACULAR
•Not Free Shipping!!
•The recipient files the claim.
•Shopify app update chaos.
•We're not wearing masks anymore (for now).
•Donating to Little Libraries. http://littlefreelibrary.org
•Tim Seeley's just-announced new Dark Horse comic THE ROADIE looks fun!
•Adding to a 'complete' summer crossover checklist after-the-fact.
•Working with Image for our exclusive cover wasn't as straightforward as we'd have liked.

Contest of Challengers #588

"I DON'T READ MY EMAILS!"

Sun, 29 May 2022 22:13:45 +0000

"I DON'T READ MY EMAILS!"
•Trying to make our store as tech-forward as we can.
•Don't get mad at us for trying to help you.
•Negative interactions can ruin your whole week.
•Getting handmade thank you comics from kids can save your week.
•Chicago Podcast Day.
•Aftershock's A CALCULATED MAN is a good read!

Contest of Challengers #587
Header image photo by Ana Everling

"NAH; I DON'T WANT TO"

Mon, 23 May 2022 01:40:38 +0000

"NAH; I DON'T WANT TO"
•Our FINAL AT&T story (we hope), in 2 parts.
•When prices rise with no added value.
•Marvel Comics August solicitations.
•Black Adam #1 is surprisingly good.
•Patrick no longer wants to stock one-shots (he's looking at YOU, Last Shadow Hawk).
•Perry White! $5 for 7 new pages.
•Updating security camera apps.
•Way more PRH shipping damages.

Contest of Challengers #586

"BIG-HEADED"

Mon, 16 May 2022 03:08:43 +0000

"BIG-HEADED"
•Chicago Podcast Day is next week!
•No more sponsorship.
•We're big-headed now, we guess.
•Free Comic Book Day wrap-up (with special guests)!
•It's May, so of course the shop is in the 80's (degrees, not decade).
•Metal bookmarks, anyone?
•Buy our Exclusive covers (please)!

Contest of Challengers #585

"AND" CONVERSATION, NOT "OR"

Mon, 09 May 2022 02:24:44 +0000

"AND" CONVERSATION, NOT "OR"
•More problems with AT&T. This time with a 2nd account!
•No, sorry, we're still noy doing consignment.
•What is this "Free Comics Book Day" all about?
•Sometimes it's hard to get people to pick up their free t-shirt.
•Begging for reviews is a bad look.
•Manage Comics updates—they're all good!

Contest of Challengers #584

I WILL THROW YOUR COMICS IN THE TRASH

Sun, 01 May 2022 22:54:17 +0000

I WILL THROW YOUR COMICS IN THE TRASH
•A broken Bat Grappling gun
•Thor Love and Thunder Marvel Legends are out now!
•Fixed costs (I told you I'd keep it in).
•Comics for out-of-touch old men.
•Cyclical sales (or was this what I was keeping in? I can't remember)
•Simon & Schuster billing fun. Seriously delinquent fun.
•Dal really enjoys using Stocky to maintain Challenger's graphic novel inventory.

Contest of Challengers #583

WHO ARE THESE BOOKS FOR?

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 01:42:16 +0000

WHO ARE THESE BOOKS FOR?
•All Gwenpool, all the time!
•Handling collected editions.
•Why we collect what we collect.
•Why are these comics being made and who are they for?
•Why we find it difficult to stock variant covers.
•We can't order everything…
•Oh, backorders. When will you fill?
•Marvel Legends pricing is going up (again).

OUR SPONSOR:
MANSCAPED The Best in Men's Grooming
https://www.manscaped.com/
Use the code CHALLENGERS at check-out for 20% off!

National Art & Trade Tuition Opportunity (NATTO) Scholarship
http://nattosoup.com/scholarship
http://nattosoup.com/scholarshipkit

Contest of Challengers #582

A LOT OF MATERIAL IN THE MARKET

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 01:03:43 +0000

•Chipotle SHOULD sponsor us.
•Manage Comics functionality we're still hoping for.
•Marvel in April. Not so many comics…
•Remembering disbursement (that's what my notes say).
•Missing solicitation/press release information.
•IDW's 9 new originals.
•A weird PRH delivery from this week.

OUR SPONSOR:
MANSCAPED The Best in Men's Grooming
https://www.manscaped.com/
Use the code CHALLENGERS at check-out for 20% off!

National Art & Trade Tuition Opportunity (NATTO) Scholarship
http://nattosoup.com/scholarship
http://nattosoup.com/scholarshipkit

Contest of Challengers #581

DRAWN FROM COMICS

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 01:33:22 +0000

DRAWN FROM COMICS
•Stealth Marvel cancellations.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Google sure seems to have their sites set on us!
•Minor store changes.
•The strange allure of POP Vinyl's.
•Jon Bogdnaove sold some major art!
•Bookscan numbers for 2021.
•Raise your hand if your school held Scholastic Book Fairs!
•We've got some great signings headed your way! We've also had some other great signings that did not go so well…
•Dal suggests you check out BOOM!'s Grim #1 and Image's Bone Orchard Mythos Passageway graphic novel.

OUR SPONSOR:
MANSCAPED The Best in Men's Grooming
https://www.manscaped.com/
Use the code CHALLENGERS at check-out for 20% off!

National Art & Trade Tuition Opportunity (NATTO) Scholarship
nattosoup.com/scholarship
nattosoup.com/scholarshipkit

Contest of Challengers #580

FOURTEEN-TO-LIFE

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 22:29:52 +0000

FOURTEEN-TO-LIFE
•We tuned 14 on the day this episode was recorded!
•A week's worth of AT&T problems (and no phone).
•Follow-up to our FCBD layout.
•Sometimes calling someone out on the podcast is a GOOD thing.
•Toy Hunting in Kokomo, Indiana!
•Comic Shop hunting, in the same city.
•Sorry in advance, but it's a Recorded-in-the-Car episode.
•Shout out to MJ and Stella for handling all the in-store problems today (they're not on this episode, but we just wanted to thank them, again).

OUR SPONSOR:
MANSCAPED The Best in Men's Grooming
https://www.manscaped.com/
Use the code CHALLENGERS at check-out for 20% off!

Contest of Challengers #579

FILTER THE SEARCH

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 00:11:35 +0000

FILTER THE SEARCH
•Running a modern comic shop without internet.
•Receiving product using only your phone.
•Zestworld, the new Substack.
•Checking In with a Challenger!
•We have a sponsor!
•Who would we want to advertise on Contest of Challengers?

OUR SPONSOR:
MANSCAPED The Best in Men's Grooming
https://www.manscaped.com/
Use the code CHALLENGERS at check-out for 20% off!

Contest of Challengers #578

DO A EXCLUSIVE COVER

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 02:12:52 +0000

DO A EXCLUSIVE COVER
•DO A POWERBOMB! That's one of the things we were hinting at last episode.
•We have a Challengers Exclusive cover or 2 on the horizon.
•Diving back into Store Events
BY THE HORNS signing March 30
WEST OF SUNDOWN signing April 6
•How to layout the shop for FCBD this year…
•Checking in with Stella!
•Erroneous Google reviews.
•The power went out! Yet business was not interrupted.
•Another PRH call.
•Most of our Substacks are coming to Image Comics this summer.

Contest of Challengers #577

ANYTHING BUT INNOVATIVE

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 02:20:53 +0000

ANYTHING BUT INNOVATIVE
•Too much vague talk about thigs we just can't tell you yet.
•Patrick talked to/at 5 wrestlers today, for… reasons…
•We're really excited by one of favorite creator's new comic project, to be announced next week.
•Our Hero Initiative JLA/Avengers raffle is underway!
•Patrick's video call with PRH
•Potential new shipping boxes (we like them).
•Calling us "innovators" makes us uncomfortable.
•Checking in with Andrew.

DONATIONS:
• https://www.heroinitiative.org/

Contest of Challengers #576

BUYING A SOLUTION

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 07:04:48 +0000

BUYING A SOLUTION
•Rowing Home with Jordan North. Congratulations, Jordan!!
•Where we've been donating this week (links below).
•UPS (too) Early-morning delivery.
•Why the crazy (online, not instore) demand for AVENGERS FOREVER #3?
•New Releases are always a limit of 2 (unless you preorder).
•Why a Hold Box can't work with an online inventory (not subscriptions; a take-it-off-the-shelf hold).
•A phone that never rings (if only!).
•You say you want a(n) (AEW) Revolution…
•Advance reads: Rogues #1 (again), Shadow War Alpha.
•Last week's Marvel graphic novels are still missing…
•Thanks, Patrons!

DONATIONS:
• https://canvas-story.bbcrewind.co.uk/jordan/
• https://give.unrefugees.org/220224ukr_emer_d_4983/
• https://gmgunion.com/

Contest of Challengers #575

THE WORD "NONE"

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 00:44:21 +0000

THE WORD "NONE"
•ChallengersComics.com has changed!
•Why you should read EIGHT BILLION GENIES, I HATE THIS PLACE and BATMAN (starting at #125).
•Our JLA/Avengers plans IF we get any copies.
•Paint drinker.
•Goddammit, please stop stealing our action figures!!!
•Checking in with Jeanna, the 'while driving' edition.
•Our modified Tuesday night email.
•Just how well did our "NEW PRINTING" signs work?

Contest of Challengers #574

F*CK THIS EPISODE

Sun, 20 Feb 2022 23:11:54 +0000

F*CK THIS EPISODE
•Patrick has been saving up his Shopify questions for Dal until this recording.
•Subscribers ordering duplicate covers and we get stuck with their mistakes.
•Shopify's new Customer page layout is not good.
•Our website will be changing this week! Maybe even by the time you read this!
•We love our new Challengers portraits by Georgeo Brooks!
•Too many shelf signs: 1st Issue/New Print/New Last Week/Recommended By
•The new, very limited printing of JLA/Avengers from the Hero Initiative.
•Marvel theme park attractions: Universal vs Disney.
•F*ck This Place by Kyle Starks is already stirring up controversy.
•Upcoming books you should look at: BATMAN KILLING TIME and ROGUES.
•Current books we're really digging: JOE HILL'S RAIN, DIRTBAG RAPTURE and WHAT'S THE FURTHEST PLACE FROM HERE.

Contest of Challengers #573

TEACH A MAN TO FISH

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 05:49:26 +0000

•Friday customer interactions.
•How's the Sale going?
•INVOICING! And why we hate it.
•A Manage Comics feature Dal would literally give a tooth for.
•In interesting Sales Tax find.
•Advance previews! Radiant Red (again), World's Finest and West of Sundown.
•DC's upcoming crossovers and why we cringe at the very idea of them.

Contest of Challengers #572

SNOW PROTOCOL

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 02:26:48 +0000

SNOW PROTOCOL
•Fun with Facsimile Editions.
•Questionable Creators vs the Characters they create.
•Snow Protocol!!
•Santa Clauses
•Creating new items in Shopify vs ComicSuite.
•Some minor Manage Comics quirks for the week.
•Thanks, Patrons!
•Patrick has no idea what Star Wars Crimson Reign is about.
•Issue #1 of the upcoming Batman Killing Time mini-series is real good!
•Looking at all the Substack comics that dropped this week.
Contest of Challengers #571

FRUGAL + VICIOUS = FRICIOUS

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 00:52:08 +0000

Contest of Challengers #570
FRUGAL + VICIOUS = FRICIOUS
•Compendiums vs Trades, as more publishers are going for the larger collections.
•The comic shop mainstay that is MAUS.
•A brief interlude about Joe Lycett.
•What non-superhero trades will we always keep in-stock?
•Publishers, it's okay to let properties die.
•Dal's amazing Shopify hack!
•The ease of using Manage Comics as a consumer.
•Hand-adding existing subscribers to a new/companion title is not a quick task.

TREADING WATER

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 01:21:37 +0000

TREADING WATER
•The story of an Avengers Endgame Iron Man Pop Vinyl online order.
•Local Pick-Up is NOT Free Shipping.
•The attempted installation of fiberoptic internet.
•Shopify is changing how we pay them.
•The Herculean task of January Initial Orders.
•SAGA is back!!!!
•A look back to our retailing philosophy of 2012.
•Dal has read PDF's of the up coming Image titles: LITTLE MONSTERS, GHOST CAGE, STEP BY BLOODY STEP, and RADIANT RED.

LADDER UP!

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 02:41:28 +0000

LADDER UP!
•We have a new ladder and Patrick is very excited for it.
•Why one fan does not like the current Buffy comics.
•Getting next week's Marvel Comics on Friday rather than Monday.
•How to ring up subscriber purchases when Manage Comics goes down.
•Another Amazing Spider-Man #1 is coming.
•DC disappoints with their limiting availability of fun covers.
•At this point I kind of stopped taking notes, but there's plenty more stuff.
•We totally forgot we were going to talk about the 2021 best sellers. Whoops.
•You can also catch Patrick on this week's OFF PANEL podcast with David Harper!

NOT MORE DIFFICULT; WORSE

Sun, 09 Jan 2022 23:37:05 +0000

NOT MORE DIFFICULT; WORSE
(this episode's title is not in reference to Manage Comics)
•We're in our new Studiotorium (TM & © 2022 Challengers Inc)
•Checking in with Andrew
•How to do an exchange in Shopify
•Thor #20. Ha ha.
•Thank you, Bad Idea, and no thank you.
•Manage Comics from the User side.
•How many subscribers didn't come in at all in December?

Next Week: The Best-Sellers of 2021!

WE DID NOT STEAL YOUR PHONE

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 02:40:23 +0000

WE DID NOT STEAL YOUR PHONE
•I promise you; we did not steal your phone.
•Which of next week's books have we read? "We" being Dal, as Patrick is so far behind.
•This was the week we switched to Manage Comics, so there's LOTS of Manage Comics talk!
•Immortal Hulk vol. 10 collection misprint.
•This is a timeline, not 'greater than' symbols:
ComicSuite/RMS>RMH/Pullbox>Shopify/Octopus>Manage Comics/Stocky/Shopify
•We're really on board with Manage Comics and it's better for all of us.
•Thanks, Patrons!

Next Week: The other half of Manage Comics! The user interface!

A "Good Problem" is Still a Problem

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 03:02:44 +0000

A "Good Problem" is Still a Problem
•Early solicits for April that we can't do anything with yet.
•Comic news websites.
•Too much talk about Doctor Who.
•We still don't "get" social media.
•Looking ahead to 2022.
•Holiday decorations after Christmas.
•Manage Comics Is.
•Movie talk! Sorry. But there are no spoilers.

Thanks to Markisan Naso ("By The Horns", "Voracious") for this episode's segment breaks.

A Christmas Episode

Mon, 20 Dec 2021 01:01:52 +0000

•Retail at Christmas.
•Somewhere in the episode will be the yearly playing of Stan Lee's "'Twas the Night Before Christmas" and a new Holiday song from The Divorce Gun!
•Random shipments all throughout the week make it hard to plan your day.
•SO MANY boxes (inside of boxes), as well as bubble wrap.
•Reporting damages via Hachette's new online portal.
•Christmas traditions.
•Are you ready? It's just about Manage Comics time!!
•New and exciting issues with Diamond's POS system.
Visitors in town for C2E2.

The Time Dilation of C2E2

Mon, 13 Dec 2021 01:44:19 +0000

The Time Dilation of C2E2
•Checking in with Jeanna!
•C2E2 2021
•C2E2 Pandemic protocol
•Consignment woes
•What we bought at C2E2
•Checking in with Molly Jane

Finalizing Code

Mon, 06 Dec 2021 02:08:51 +0000

Finalizing Code
•It's a Blind Bag, uh, unbagging! And there's an advent calendar!
•The Manage Comics functionality we're hoping for.
•A NEW (recurring??) segment!
•Letter carrier blues.
•The good and bad and egregious packing of comic book shipments.
•Product condition salability in the bookstore market.
•Making sense of alternate vendor billing statements.
•The surprise roadblock of PRH's 'first of the month' invoicing.

Treat yourself: https://youtu.be/gIxi9ZqOzAw
Thank you so much Ashleigh & Drew for bringing Clydene in!!

Space is Flexible

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 04:27:10 +0000

Space is Flexible
•It's "Old Wound" Friday!
•Rule #1 of Challengers was in FULL EFFECT lately.
•It's a MASSIVE week for both Marvel and DC and both of those deliveries arrived today.
•Decorating for Christmas.
•Reporting the full number of packing/shipping damages from PRH just isn't worth it.
•How we can keep the same amount of graphic novel shelf space with so many new graphic novels coming out every year.
•The story of the 1-foot grid wall shelf.
•CRIMSON CAGE is so good!!

The Vocal 5%

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 03:36:04 +0000

•The evolution of Pullbox (a precursor to its impending death).
•Creating items in Manage Comics.
•It's been a rough week for the comics industry but a VERY rough week for justice.
•Putting in the FINAL order numbers for X Lives of Wolverine #1 BEFORE initial orders have been placed. Wait, what??
•Nightwing #87 is going to be amazing!!
•The vocal 5%.
•The Wolf Maria stopped by and signed some of her covers.
•Holiday Hours are coming next week.

Ransomware

Mon, 15 Nov 2021 01:36:43 +0000

Ransomware
No wrestling toys were bought during the recording of this episode.
(That is a lie)
•Invoicing inconstancies between the various comic publishers.
•A ransomware attack on Diamond Comic Distributors and how it affected EVERYONE in comics retail.
•The complete lack of 1st pressings of the What's the Furthest Place From Here 7" vinyl editions.
•Adding invoicing to our Hold policy.
•Most new in-store signs are up!
•Almost having a commercial shot in Challengers and having to close for 2 days for it.
•We're using the Marvel Unlimited app (90% for the "It's Jeff" comic strip).
Thanks again to Markisan Naso ("By The Horns", "Voracious") for this episode's segment break.

"Gentrifiers!!"

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 00:43:36 +0000

"Gentrifiers!!"
Not subscribing people to Soul Plumber.
We do not want to hang your flyer.
Prepare for new in-store signage!
Giving our gaming section a facelift.
The different types of comic book buyers.
Upcoming Image releases.
So very many annuals on DC's Final Order Cutoff list this week.
Thanks again to Markisan Naso ("By The Horns", "Voracious") for this episode's segment breaks.

A Basic Level of Competence

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 21:52:07 +0000

"A Basic Level of Competence"
•Ordering comics for Local Comic Shop Day.
•Marvel Legends restock.
•Data conversion for Shopify from ComicSuite.
•Tuesday's massive delivery.
•Patrick got to unpack a Penguin Random House Marvel shipment.
•New books we've read: Radio Apocalypse #1 and Robins #1.
•Generating excitement for what has yet to come out.
Huge thanks to Markisan Naso ("By The Horns", "Voracious") for this episode's segment breaks.

Carny Pieces of $#!T

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 01:35:07 +0000

"Carny Pieces of $#!T"
Adventures at FedEx Office.
Some people who want to buy Pokemon cards are really great people. Others, however…
Week 2 of not being allowed to sell certain Image titles.
Some retailers give us all a bad rep.
No 2nd Prints for Image Comics moving forward.
3 days between initial orders and final order cutoffs seems to defeat the purpose.
Upcoming comics we like and/or really like or have read:
Dark Knights of Steel, DC Vs Vampires, Newburn, Regarding the Matter of Oswald's Body, Catwoman Lonely City, Robin & Batman, Task Force Z
Supply chain issues for Bad Idea.
Zoop-ing the John Paul Leon "The Winter Men" Artist Edition.
We've restocked ALL of Rachel Bard's comics!!

Thirsty For Them Robins

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 01:39:37 +0000

"Thirsty For Them Robins"
•Pokemon Celebrations allocations were so steep we didn't even have a chance to order.
•Ch-ch-ch-change… as in coins.
•Social content and platforms that just aren't for us.
•New DC books for January.
•An impromptu skip week for Image Comics.
•ComicSuite seems to break more each week, and ordering DC books for December is currently a nightmare.
•Manage Comics can't come soon enough, and is, hopefully, getting better every week.
•Week 2 of getting Marvel Comics from Penguin Random House.

Don't Make Us Choose Between Your Money and Satan

Mon, 11 Oct 2021 01:41:05 +0000

"Don't Make Us Choose Between Your Money and Satan"
Wait… ARE we devil worshipers??
A full week of Molly Jane Challenger! And she did…?
This store is for the young at heart.
The first experience receiving Marvel Comics from Penguin Random House. It was…?
Marvel has changed their Final Order Cutoff lead time.
Getting Challengers to be what we hoped it could be.
Working with artists for store projects is an amazing thing to get to do.

Generally Managing

Sun, 03 Oct 2021 22:33:20 +0000

"Generally Managing"
A brief, yet thorough, history of all past Challengers co-workers.
After months of hints and clues, probably the 4th biggest announcement we could make…
The futures of Challengers starts NOW!
Thanks, Patrons!
The performance aspect of selling comics to families.

Multiples of the Normal Cost

Mon, 27 Sep 2021 01:16:12 +0000

"Multiples of the Normal Cost"
Please wear your mask over your mouth AND nose.
Patreon Free Comic Book Day questions (answered 1 month late).
DC, Lunar AND FedEx all have the potential to upset our weekly DC receiving schedule.
KickStarter survey woes.
Diamond's Retailer Best Practice Awards are back for 2021.
Dal really like CRIMSON CAGE #1!
Dal also read some other yet-to-be-released comics.
IDW + PRH = acronym abundance!

It's Soul-Crushing

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 20:43:31 +0000

"It's Soul-Crushing"
Playing with our new 1D, Bluetooth, cordless barcode scanner.
The overallocation of both subscriptions and special orders in ComicSuite.
Last episode we talked about having to do Final Order Cutoffs via Penguin Random House for the first time. This week we talk about actually having done them.
Current Initial Order hurdles.
Supply prices (bags) are going up AGAIN, as are Marvel Legends prices.
Full days of work, at the store and not at the store.
Trying to lessen the burden for the future.

Weirder and More Stable

Sun, 12 Sep 2021 23:59:22 +0000

"Weirder and More Stable"
It's the first week for Marvel Comics single issue Final Order Cutoffs thru Penguin Random House.
Manage Comics' most recent thought stream makes our excitement build, even if the release date is pushed back.
Experimenting with Shopify's point of sale system.
Supplies and Funko Pops trade places in the shop.

Please Choose Returnability

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 07:07:46 +0000

"Please Choose Returnability"
Still no DC data in ComicSuite means no one can subscribe to November's DC books (UPDATE: DC books have been added to the system after we recorded).
We're kind of bad a promoting new comics and merchandise via social media.
Cover I.D. I don't remember what this refers to, but it was in my notes so it's here.
Have you heard about publishers printing multiple covers for the same comic?? Weird, right?
Customer Service isn't for everybody...
Our new shirt Kickstarter campaign is in its last week! https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/challengers/keep-reading-comics-t-shirt-designed-by-ali-cantarella

Broken Links in the Supply Chain

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 01:28:10 +0000

"Broken Links in the Supply Chain"
The regular occurrence of graphic novels damaged in shipping.
Patrick has been doing this for 31 years.
Huge week for DC! So many stores did not get their new comics in time for Wednesday, AND DC is having to delay a lot of books for supply reasons.
Ingram is on top of it all!
2 of our upcoming store signings have been cancelled (Dave Scheidt "Mayor Good Boy" and Allyson Lassiter "Star Beasts").
Trying to order Marvel graphic novels.
Retailers industry wide are feeling the stress.
We've still got a new shirt on Kickstarter right now! https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/challengers/keep-reading-comics-t-shirt-designed-by-ali-cantarella

Pin-Tastic

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 00:45:44 +0000

More Questions answered about Manage Comics.
Store improvements this week: door leak guards, 2 new door thresholds, new carpet runners and 17 new window banners!
Also new – Challengers Birthday card, I Love You But I've Chosen Comics enamel pin and the Patrick + Dal heads 2-pin set!
Our Free Comic Book Day aftermath.
Bad Idea's latest disagreeable marketing decision.
Substack! What is it? Which creators are using it? How will it impact comic shops?
We've got a new shirt on Kickstarter right now! https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/challengers/keep-reading-comics-t-shirt-designed-by-ali-cantarella

Carpet Diem

Mon, 16 Aug 2021 02:09:30 +0000

Carpet Diem
Patrick is SO high strung right now. He can feel the cable starting to fray…
Free Comic Book Day is NOW! Although it'll be over by the time you hear this.
Our last 7 days, in order. SO much stuff happened!
The process of getting the carpet installed.

Special thanks to:
Kent Challenger
Samantha Challenger, Vex and Steve
Drew and Ashleigh
Keith and Margie
Tad
And also…
Felix Challenger
Andrew Challenger
Benhur
Jackie
Erik

The Value Aspect

Mon, 09 Aug 2021 03:42:05 +0000

"The Value Aspect"
Introducing 'new' publisher MarvelPRH! A good idea from Diamond!
Further adventures with Pullbox.
What our subscription service is supposed to be vs what it's turned into.
"Curbside" vs "In-Store".
The pitfalls of celebrity signings.
Our recommended offer to exchange.
You should really add Ed Brubaker's Friday HC to you want list.
Our current stance on comic Kickstarters.
There is no Challengers TikTok.
People really want the "hot" Free Comic Book Day titles, but is it for the actual comic stories?

Changing the Calculus

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 02:09:38 +0000

"Changing the Calculus"
Masks are once again required in-store.
Will these rising Covid numbers change Free Comic Book Day (Aug 14)?
DC = Doesn't Care
Constantly having to apologize to subscribers for computer errors we can't control is exhausting. Talking about it every week, even more so.
Thanks, Patrons!
The ever-changing due dates for Final Order Cutoff numbers.
We've finalized our new mid-windows banner design.

Minimizing Chances of Failure

Mon, 26 Jul 2021 02:38:13 +0000

Minimizing Chances of Failure
Wearing a coat in July.
Seven Sagas vol 1's.
Patrick is working on the last Marvel Comics order from Diamond.
Our (probable) switchover to Manage Comics looms ever closer.
I'm sorry, but we're out of Pokémon cards. Again. Still.
The face of your disappointment.
New Challengers Greeting Card, singular.
Our new carpet installation has been pushed back by 1 week.
Who makes money in Comics?

Spatial Considerations

Sun, 18 Jul 2021 23:31:14 +0000

Spatial Considerations
So many plans for updating the look of Challengers, but no time to implement them.
Challengers needs a deep cleaning!
As we get closer to the potential switch-over to Manage Comics, we're finding more hardware we'll need to upgrade.
Still hoping to change our Penguin Random House payment terms before we start ordering Marvel single issues.
As pop culture fans we sure buy a lot of pop culture stuff.

Parse That Data

Sun, 11 Jul 2021 23:12:36 +0000

Parse That Data
Comics as commodities.
Manage Comics 2.0 is looking good for us.
The last word on Challengers Blue.
Finally… new carpet! And we can use your help moving all the shelves.
Say 10 things nice to 1 thing negative.

So Many Shipments

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 03:07:42 +0000

Eternal racking questions.
How many covers is too many (hint: more than 2).
So many shipments from so many distributors.
June sales totals (an overview).
Water damage.
Primordial #1 (by the Gideon Falls team).
Don't miss out on The Nice House on the Lake!

Is It Good or is it Spawn?

Sun, 27 Jun 2021 22:57:41 +0000

Yotsuba&! is returning!
Calling back after we call you.
The weirdness of no masks.
Is it good or is it Spawn?
Patrick really digs Vinyl from Image.
Addressing the Warren Ellis in the room.
Hoarding the new Hawkguy collection.
The new Amazing Spider-Man writing team.
A controversial new figure from DoomCo Designs and Crocodile Jackson.
Introducing Felix Challenger.

This is a Dull Podcast

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 02:28:03 +0000

This is a Dull Podcast
Upcoming DC books—more hits than not!
Prose writers writing comics.
Updating our Gift Cards on the website(s).
Marvel Legends prices are rising and may rise more.
Have you heard about Phonation? 10 Chicago podcasts on vinyl!
LOKI is a fun show.
Nick Spencer is leaving Amazing Spider-Man.
New work from Fiona Staples, but not new Saga work.
Signings! Upcoming, new, and unannounced!
Where to eat after visiting Challengers?

Space Ghettos

Mon, 14 Jun 2021 01:28:17 +0000

Space Ghettos
Supergirl Woman of Tomorrow.
How'd our Six Sidekicks of Trigger Keaton signing go? Hint: Awesome.
Our new in-store mask policy.
Asking for a Spider-Man collection is really asking for _______________?
New week, same ComicSuite running errors.
Still learning how to order thru Penguin Random House.
The non-death of Bad Idea.
W.E.B. of Spider-Man #1 was this week's most annoying comic.
A Yelp review from a year and a half ago resurfaces.
Bonus! See if you can count the times Dal leaves the recording studio to take a phone call while Patrick fills.

So. Many. Damages.

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 00:54:13 +0000

Green Lantern after Geoff Johns volume 4.
So many damages from our distribution partners.
Problems with single issue comic backorders.
EVERYTHING is in short supply right now (not just comics) and it's making people go insane.
The different mindset of the suburban comic shop.
More advance PDF's please!
Dal really liked Made in Korea and Patrick is totally on board for Vinyl (from the team behind Plastic).
How long will we keep wearing masks in-store?

Black Lives Matter

Sun, 30 May 2021 22:44:46 +0000

Black Lives Matter
What's in Patrick's pocket?
Delaying the Batman/Fortinite reprints is annoying.
New DC solicits (Batman the World).
Signings are back at Challengers! Kyle Starks & Chris Schweizer, Michael Moreci, Tim Seeley, and Dave Scheidt, for starters.
Maybe we'll have plans for FCBD after all…
Black Lives Matter.
Thank you for all thinking so highly of us.

It's a Linear Path

Tue, 25 May 2021 04:29:41 +0000

It's a Linear Path
Friday afternoon dranks.
Bad artists can really make you stop reading a book.
Losing John Paul Leon and David Anthony Kraft.
We have current comic bags available again!
Working with other comic shops. Or not.
What became of our unsold Hank Howard copies?
Low Marvel print runs on Disney+ properties.
New Marvel sales terms from Diamond.
Also from Diamond, new shipping fee structure.
DisCovery.

A Frictionless Process

Mon, 17 May 2021 00:53:10 +0000

A Frictionless Process
Tech support working on ComicSuite all day Friday.
Upcoming potential ComicSuite patch to make importing ALL publishers easier.
Hachette's (one of our new regular distributors) refund issue.
DC Comics Final Order Cutoff is still 4 weeks out.
Street date for new D&D hardcover!
Comic bags from Chenxin.
We seem to have mis-ordered some recent new DC titles in a big way.
*UPDATE ON THE BETA RAY BILL INTERNATIONAL SALES BATTLE!!*
More love for the upcoming 6 Sidekicks of Trigger Keaton!
"What/Who makes us money"
Marvel's last minute variant cover artist switches.
Who's up for Ed Piskor's Red Room #1 next week?
Magic the Gathering allocations.

Okay to Work With, But Mouthy

Sun, 09 May 2021 23:48:39 +0000

Okay to Work With, But Mouthy
It's a pseudo anniversary episode: 1 year since Patrick's TMNT injury and 2 weeks since Patrick and Dal received their 2nd vaccinations.
How Bad Idea's Whalesville button when terribly wrong this week.
All the effort it will take to sell $1 copies of Bad Idea's Hank Howard for 8 hours.
Danhausen is very nice, very evil, and on an Image cover.
If only it were easier to answer Pullbox questions.
Dal envisions a world where there are NO standing orders for subscribers, only special orders placed every month.
Don't blame Diamond for your mistakes.
Venting on the podcast as opposed to venting in-store.

Saying "No"

Mon, 03 May 2021 05:08:52 +0000

What's the worst weather for the shop to be open during?
Free Comic Book Day is not this Saturday.
The pandemic is still a thing… especially if you're trying to order Comic Supplies or Manga.
Why are DC Final Orders now 4 weeks out instead of 3?
"Worthless books" and why we're not a mail-order store.
There are no Sacred Cows in Comics Retail.
Where oh where can all this backstock go?
Bookshelves too full to make fun.
Net terms.

Cry Wolf

Mon, 26 Apr 2021 05:16:41 +0000

Contest of Challengers #530
Cry Wolf
Putting the Biz in Ness.
Man-Bat's Nite Fort .0
The Beta Ray Bill #1 International Sales Battle is mired in controversy.
Future ordering.
New DC and Marvel series for July.
Fun with balloons… and the police.
Wolf.

Infrastructural

Mon, 19 Apr 2021 02:25:55 +0000

Of course "infrastructural" is a word. And we ARE relating to the basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise, such as Challengers Comics + Conversation.
Time Before Time, another upcoming Image title, is definitely worth your… time.
Running a comic shop vs running a comic business.
New non-Marvel Legends toys.
Having Invincible collections is invaluable, as opposed to not being able to get any Falcon and Winter Soldier collections.
Penguin Random House is out of stock on our entire order?
Upcoming website changes, but we're in no hurry.
Window quotes, in more ways than one.

"I Don't Know" is Unacceptable

Sun, 11 Apr 2021 22:48:08 +0000

Benhur's safe is safe! Phew!
Seriously, masks are still required in-store!! Sheesh.
7 months of Andrew. Woosh!
Changes in the X-Men titles this summer! Snikt!
New Marvel Legends action figures just announced! Bam!
Bad Idea pins… *Sigh*
"I Don't Know" is Unacceptable. Humph.
Image's The Good Asian is an excellent detective (Chinatown Noir) comic! Ka-ching!*

*Okay, so I felt a little weird using "Ka-ching" as the sound effect after The Good Asian. I was going for the sound of a cash register to emphasize how much we expect this to sell. To be safe I googled "noise a cash register makes" and both 'cha-ching' and ka-ching' came up at the top, so I went with it.

6 Weeks of Aggravation

Mon, 05 Apr 2021 03:14:49 +0000

6 Weeks of Aggravation
This week has been a solid week of sales. Is it Easter? Spring Break?
Our windows really need some attention!
Bad Idea strikes again!
Shopify online payment options.

Jumping Right In...

Sun, 28 Mar 2021 22:42:12 +0000

So, anything interesting happen in the comics industry this week?
The majority of this episode is about, of course, Marvel Comics leaving Diamond Comic Distributors in favor of Penguin Random House.
This Wednesday is our 13th Anniversary.
Volumes Bookcafe is closing their shop in our neighborhood (for now).
Square and Wyze, 2 services we use all day long, both had server issues today.
The 6 Sidekicks of Trigger Keaton is this year's best comic book series.

It's So Byzantine

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 01:54:38 +0000

It's So Byzantine
This year's Sale t-shirts are in, but what if we made a 2nd shirt each year?
Free Comic Book Day is still happening in 2021, in August, but what are we doing for it?
Gregg Schigiel has designed our new book mark! He also designs great masks here: https://www.teepublic.com/user/hatterentertainment
It's been 1 year since Chicago shut down for the start of the pandemic. How has the nature of business changed in that time?
Applying for PPP financial assistance.
Remembering Ed Mroz (The Mutiny) and Gerri Miller (Metal Edge magazine).
Coffee Shop AU.
New and Upcoming Comics we've read, including TIME BEFORE TIME, NIGHTWING, DETECTIVE COMICS, BATMAN SUPERMAN, HARLEY QUINN and JUSTICE LEAGUE.

The Prisoner's Dilemma

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 00:57:11 +0000

We seem to have broken yet another audio receiver. And by "we" we're blaming Kent.
Some people find our Rogues Gallery prints fairly valuable.
Protect the Eisner at all costs, Dal!!
Diamond allocations and the Prisoner's Dilemma.
With 6 months to go, the landlord at Blue is now even more frustrating to deal with.

Avoiding Landmines Isn't Enough

Sun, 07 Mar 2021 23:34:10 +0000

New AEW figure announcements and signings!
WandaVision pulling out all the stops (we had not watched Episode 9 before this recording so there are no spoilers at all).
Just knowing a landmine is there only helps you avoid that specific landmine.
The Joker #1, and a look at the cultural impact of the Joker.
Checking in with the first of DC's post Infinite Frontier books (Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman).
Now that Bad Idea's ENIAC #1 is actually out, what does selling Bad Idea comics really look like? Also, Eniac #1 is really good. So good we can't be angry at it.
Before you email us asking if we have something in stock, you can always check for yourself at shop.challengerscomics.com!

The Treachery of Margie

Sun, 28 Feb 2021 22:30:19 +0000

All Star Comics fires shots from afar using someone VERY close to home.
Keanu Reeves' BRZRKR #1 arrives this week!
Oh, USPS. Why do you only have 1 good mail carrier in our area?
Everything new Bad Idea does makes it seem more about limited/collectability than about reading good comics.
Stopping in at Chicago's Vertical Gallery.
A series of connected one shots vs. a mini-series.
Too many themed cover options for one title!
"Time Traveler" the movie.
DC's Infinite Frontier #0.

The Annoyance Fee

Mon, 22 Feb 2021 02:42:54 +0000

Pokemon Shining Fates was released today and… well, we carried all of it. For now…
Rumors of a DC Comics buyout by rich fans.
DC final order orders can be less final than we'd like.
Buying comics for more than cover price.
Bad Idea working with Diamond?
New rules for publishers offering returnability thru Diamond.
Todd McFarlane's vision of the future of comics is… Image comics from the mind-1990's.

Digging Our Own Grave

Sun, 14 Feb 2021 23:33:03 +0000

Digging Our Own Grave
DC is Digital First, Retailers Last.
Affidavit Returns can be tricky when not everything is listed on your invoice.
The books we wish were selling better.
This year's SALE was way more frustrating than ever before, with higher highs and lower lows. Plus, more procedures to pull it off with an online component.
Ordering collecting supplies is more challenging than ever before.
How you can use Final Order Cutoffs/Final Orders Due to your advantage! And also, New to Order!

Rip-Off Culture

Mon, 08 Feb 2021 06:22:26 +0000

Rip-Off Culture
Friday customer interactions (no, we do not cut hair).
Frozen water pipe BEFORE the Chicago Deep Freeze.
It's SALE TIME!
The practice of music sampling (in a comics podcast??).
Never attribute to Malice what you can attribute to Stupidity.
Several new Bad Idea happenings this week alone!
What will Marvel do about Immortal Hulk #43? Or really, HOW will they do it?

My Love for You is Like a Truck

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 04:10:22 +0000

My Love for You is Like a Truck
Just when you've got all of 2020's taxes are sorted, 2019 rears its head again.
Polite, thorough communications.
Missing 1 Lunar box for next week's DC books.
The generous people of the internet.
We will be carrying EVERY BRZRKR #1 cover.
A new international sales battle!
Good comics of your future, including: Fear Book, Orphan & 5 Beasts, Jonna and the Unpossible Monsters, and Silver Coin. Also, Nocterra.

On the Rocks

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 01:36:01 +0000

On the Rocks.
We join the recording in-conversation about the act of viewing Wandavision. We don't talk about the show itself, but the art of trying to stay spoiler-free in today's social internet age.
Subjective not objective.
The Bad Idea Preview Book dropped and it's bringing out the worst in too many people.
Our Bad Idea "Hero Trade" contest(s)!
Possible monthly raffle drawings for some fun merch.
New year; new accountant.
Final orders for BOOM!'s BRZRKR (BERZERKER) #1.
A year without in-store events.

Don't Let Perfect be the Enemy of Good

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 01:40:18 +0000

Don't Let Perfect be the Enemy of Good
No, the Sale is NEXT month.
Why do so many people need x2 copies of all the Future State books?
Our new Instagram name.
Tom Taylor is writing Batman? Santa must have gotten Patrick's letters!
Seriously, Kaijimax is SO SO SO GOOD.
Previews Dal has read: Shadecraft, Orcs and Karmen.
Slower sales in January.
Shipping damages in the time of Covid-19.
Sammy Hagar's Piece charity pizza.

2020's Top Graphic Novels

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 02:52:51 +0000

Our yearly "I Love You But I've Chose Comics" sale is coming up and Anissa Espinosa designed this year's shirt!
The difficulty getting the Transformer "Scorponok" and other items.
Week 1 of DC's Future State is under way, so how are they doing?
This week's annoyance: Star Wars High Republic #1.
Top Graphic Novel sales for 2020 (https://challengerscomics.com/index.php/announcements/item/2310-top-graphic-novel-sales-for-2020)
Wrestle Kingdom 15 (at the very end).

Our Year, In Words

Mon, 04 Jan 2021 01:56:45 +0000

Our Year, In Words.
It's a look back at our 2020, in as chronological of an order as we can remember but seen thru the eyes of 2 people that have come out the other side with our business intact. So less of a "can you believe that??" look back and more of a "so that happened" reminiscence.
There's also a brief story about insurance, and the monthly Patreon thank yous.
Also, just a tiny bit of wrestling talk, the tiniest of bits.

We're Not Santa

Mon, 28 Dec 2020 02:00:15 +0000

Spatial juxtaposition.
Emotional dissonance.
We're Not Santa.
It's okay to ask us for help. We're here to help you. Well, not HERE, but in the store.
Mechanical engineering.
Why we'll never fully embrace Instagram.
Comics of your future: ULTRAMEGA. FEAR CASE.
Thoughts on WW84.
#RIPBrodieLee

Post-Future (State)

Mon, 21 Dec 2020 05:22:34 +0000

Post-Future (State)
Current and future payment method protocol.
More USPS shipping delays, you know, like everyone is facing.
A week fraught with ComicSuite programming issues and the dedicated people who constantly try to improve its functionality.
The Infinite Frontier of DC Comics' future.

By the Horns!

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 18:25:01 +0000

By the Horns!
Elodie hates unicorns. She's dedicated her life to tracking down and killing them all for trampling her husband to death. Exiled from her farming village, Elodie and her telepathic half wolf/half deer companion, Sajen, search the continent of for clues to the whereabouts of unicorns. When they discover a lead in the port city of Lycus, their revenge mission suddenly takes a dangerous turn…
Patrick is joined by Markisan Naso & Jason Muhr (creators of VORACIOUS) to talk about their new fantasy (and sci-fi) comic, BY THE HORNS (Patrick has read it and really likes it!)!
And Taylor Swift. They all talk about Taylor Swift, but not in equal amounts.

American Mail

Mon, 14 Dec 2020 01:50:20 +0000

American Mail
Tony Fleecs, of the upcoming Image comic series STRAY DOGS, is a stand up gent!
What is the Immortal Hulk Omnibus and why haven't we heard of it?
Posting Special Orders for January comics in ComicSuite has an unexpected obstacle.
Customer anecdotes of the (Fri)day.
The Holiday shipping window is closed (for us to mail things out in time).
Gee, the Warner Bros. business plan sure feels as catastrophic as the DC Comics one!
Club Lago is open for tented-yet-classy outdoor dining.
Will the Disney investor call announcements have an immediate impact on comic sales?
The Next Batman is not at all who was expected.

"Showing Your Work" with Arune Singh

Thu, 10 Dec 2020 05:10:53 +0000

If you know Arune Singh then you already know why we wanted to have him on this podcast.
If you DON'T know Arune Singh, you're about to find out why we wanted him on this podcast.
Like most of us Arune has spent a majority of his life as a comic book fan and reader (and like us, behind the counter).
Unlike most of us, Arune has spent years on the publishing side of the comics industry.
How and why he got there is just waiting for you to learn.
And sadly, we don't talk about "Hangman" Adam Page nearly enough.

Ranking Very Well in Ghana

Sun, 06 Dec 2020 23:38:23 +0000

Ranking Very Well in Ghana.
I can't read my own show notes (written in the dark).
Contest of Challengers is killing it under 'Entrepreneurship' and 'Business' all over the world! Other than the US, that is...
Thanks for still wearing masks!
Trips to the post office.
Dal read Batman Black & White #1 and Patrick read Future State Wonder Woman #1!
HBO Max's impact on pop culture.
Higher Patreon levels (and thanks, Patrons!).
Annoying call center calls.
Asking for things we can't help with.

Rats!

Mon, 30 Nov 2020 01:50:44 +0000

Rats! Or as Adam Ant would say, Car-Car-Car-Car-Car TROUBLE!
Black Friday at Challengers.
The newest incarnation of Sidekicks is LIVE!
Diamond's rule on posting new comic images to social media.
This week's comics: Doctor Doom, Power Pack and the end of X of Swords were all exceptional!
Upcoming comics: Dal really liked Stray Dogs and Radiant Black.
Viacom/CBS is hoping to sell Simon & Schuster to Penguin/Random House and that would actually make our lives a little easier.

Print is Irrelevant

Mon, 23 Nov 2020 04:16:30 +0000

Print is Irrelevant.
Cyclops was Wrong (about Cyclops).
Another fun week of DC Comics Final Order Cutoff numbers.
What if Marvel made pizzas?
Brian Hibbs' take on the future of DC Comics (read the full column here: https://www.comicsbeat.com/tilting-at-windmills-282-the-end-days-of-dc-comics/)
Will the Future State Wonder Woman (Tara Flor) be a sought-after book?
Covid-positive customers and the current store precautions.
Happy Birthday, Dal!
Kyle Higgins' RADIANT BLACK looks real fun!

About vs "ABOUT"

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 05:12:25 +0000

About vs "ABOUT"
What does the new Chicago "Stay at Home" advisory mean for Challengers?
We do not want to read books about people dealing with Covid-19.
Image's HOME SICK PILOTS is real good, y'all.
Geoff Johns and Gary Frank have an Image book coming out in April, "Geiger".
Kaijumax continues to be one of the absolute best books on the stands.
What a comic is about vs what a comic is ABOUT.
DC Entertainment has just fired 3 of our friends.

Some Clown

Mon, 09 Nov 2020 03:02:56 +0000

Paul Cornell is amazing and we rave about "I Walk with Monsters"!
When Dal broke.
It seems Patrick is unfathomably frustrated by people wanting to spend more money.
Disappearing DC special orders.
Finding a new mass email client.
The brief story of Bamboozle.
Converting the Kallax back issue shelves to fit 3 boxes per shelf rather than just 2.

And the Family Grows.

Sun, 01 Nov 2020 23:58:34 +0000

And the Family Grows.
Haaaaavvvve you met Andrew?
Why it's so hard for smaller publishers to get their books noticed on the stands (specifically this week's Legend of Mandrake the Magician and Sympathy for No Devils).
Paying it forward.
Even more theft of Marvel Legends.
Ironing out our Chicago Bag Tax issues.
Thanks, Patrons!
New Comics in your future… Homesick Pilots ("Imagine E.T., but if E.T. was a haunted house"); Post Americana (Undiscovered Country meets Scumbag), and Kaiju Score (a heist comic in a world full of Kaijus, but they are neither the thieves nor the thieved).

Nah Man, We're Good.

Sun, 25 Oct 2020 23:54:42 +0000

Nah Man, We're Good.
…but thanks for thinking of us.
Another new layout for Sidekicks, decided upon in real time (Recorded first but added to the end of the episode, and the we still talk about it at the new start. What is even happening??).
Too much cardboard!!
Plush cake.
Lunar Distribution becomes the only distributor of DC Comics starting in 2021.
When a twice delinquent subscriber wants to subscribe again.
Difficulties uploading the December 2020 DC orders.
Working more at night than ever before (including typing this very sentence!).

Where is Your Human Compassion?

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 02:40:59 +0000

Where's Your Human Compassion?
TMNT The Last Ronin is going to be HUGE and now for more reasons than just the story.
DC Comics starts 2021 off with FUTURE STATE, the possible future of all their characters.
Sometimes catching a shoplifter is sad.
Have you read WE LIVE, AMERICAN RONIN or STILLWATER? You should.
You should also read SCARENTHOOD and GIGA when they come out.
Remember that time Dal got punched in the face?

FIVE HUNDRED

Sun, 11 Oct 2020 22:57:45 +0000

It's the 500th episode of Contest of Challengers!
An update on our status with Blue's landlord.
An update on the status of Red's lease.
Our dream front window artist.
Patrick and Dal each ask the other 5 questions about the store, comics retail and comics in general.
It's a double-length anniversary episode and we think it's one of our best.
Thanks for listening!

Grave-Robbing Chadwick Boseman

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 02:25:10 +0000

Grave-Robbing Chadwick Boseman
We will not be carrying the Todd McFarlane "B" cover to Spawn #311.
A look-back to the All-New All-Different Marvel Comics of Fall 2015.
Thanks, Patrons!
The changeover to Retail Management Hero.

All Apologies

Sun, 27 Sep 2020 22:56:39 +0000

All Apologies
Congratulations Jess & Gabe!
Crazy Pokemon card sales this week.
So much Manga, and needing to reorganize our shelves to fit it.
Every process and procedure we need to sell you comics is letting us down. Every. One.
Our register program is scheduled to change this Monday (from RMS to RMH, if you want to get technical).
SO MANY EXTRA STEPS.
Patrick is finally reading Jim Terry's "Come Home, Indio" and really likes it.

Your Success at Our Expense

Sun, 20 Sep 2020 22:16:54 +0000

Your Success at Our Expense
AEW Dynamite's Parking Lot Brawl was one of the best wrestling matches we've ever seen.
Patrick is home from the hospital and very, very itchy.
Already planning for Christmas
Our new Little Golden Books display.
Bad Idea was certainly up to some shenanigans this week…
Image Comics now embracing variant covers.
Give Comics Hope. Or, Give Comic Shope. One of those. givecomicshope.org

With That Behavior in Mind

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 19:52:19 +0000

*Recorded early but posted late b/c Patrick had leg surgery last week and just got home.*
Ordering from Penguin/Random House (joined in conversation).
New Batman announcements.
Digital releases we didn't know about (like DC's Represent!)
A Patrick leg update. Big news!
Galactus' daughter.
Batman Day 2020.
Getting excited for some new series.
Spawn is on the rise, again.
(The 5 minutes between those last 2 items is the epitome of this podcast. Dal calls it out, so you'll know it when you get there.)

Going BRZRK(R)

Mon, 07 Sep 2020 00:08:58 +0000

Going BRZRK(R)
A dog walks into the store… stop me if you've heard this one.
(EDIT: He walked back in on Saturday! His name is Ollie, not Oscar.)
The hassles of last week's Lunar shipment (we got another store's books instead of ours).
Here's how ComicSuite and Pullbox are messing with us THIS week!
The tensions of this past Wednesday in the store.
BOOM! Studios turns to Kickstarter for their new Keanu Reeves project.
You get 50% more podcast this week for free!

"You've Got This?"

Mon, 31 Aug 2020 02:30:04 +0000

"You've Got This?"
Yes, we have this.
More issues with Diamond's Pullbox and with their Replenishment shipments.
Patrick's 30 Years interview with David Harper.
Patrick celebrates said 30 years with a Jack Kirby Captain America tattoo.

The Wrong Cover

Sun, 23 Aug 2020 23:41:08 +0000

Margaritas at work really help Patrick's mood.
30 Years of Retailing.
More ideas for Episode #500.
An unexpected benefit of using Pullbox.
An unexpected problem with using Pullbox.
When did the outside of a comic start mattering more than the inside?
A genuinely positive customer interaction (there are MANY during the week; we just don't usually call them out).
Sales expectations with school resuming.

The Dog Days of Comics

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 01:19:10 +0000

Being an adult fan of toys.
Just when we get used to wearing masks…
The DC Implosion, 2020 edition.
Pushing The Button.

Invisible Tastemakers

Mon, 10 Aug 2020 06:09:38 +0000

It's as if people have already forgotten there's a global pandemic.
Fun interactions with 'customers.'
The tools with which we learned to sell comics are no longer valid.
The invisible tastemakers of todays comics.
TMNT The Last Ronin is going to be huge!
Does anyone care about the 10 covers for Detective Comics #1027?
Our KEEP READING COMICS t-shirts are ready for pick-up (and have already been mailed out)!
Don't miss out on…
Lois Lane and the Friendship Challenge (by Grace "Lumberjanes" Ellis & Brittney "Patsy Walker, Hellcat" Williams)
Seven Secrets (by Tom Taylor!!)
Come Home, Indio (by Chicago's own Jim Terry)

A Lack of Joy

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 02:59:36 +0000

11 years of this Podcast!
SO many projects to get done at the store.
'Caution Codes' as part of an items name.
Even MORE Alex Ross 'Timeless' variant covers are coming.
Not seeing the joy of comics in our work.
An update on using Pullbox.
Thanks, Patrons!

Look Us in the Eyes

Mon, 27 Jul 2020 01:01:56 +0000

We got a Google review that says we don't look people in the eyes…
We did not receive our copies of Batman #95 this week, mere days after we talked about things going fairly well with the new DC Comics distribution set-up.
The uncertain future of comics and comics retail.
Our webstore/store point-of-sale system link-up is so close to being complete!
Minor issues with Diamond's Pullbox system.
Ordering new action figures for the store and for ourselves.
The new creative team on Wonder Woman is off to a solid start (#759).
Some other upcoming comic talk!

Analog Orders in a Digital World

Mon, 20 Jul 2020 04:02:38 +0000

Two and ½ weeks of receiving DC Comics from Lunar Distribution.
After getting stuck with SO MANY copies of the tie-in series for War of the Realms and Absolute Carnage, we went really low on all the Empyre tie-ins. And now you all want Empyre tie-ins.
DC is moving their Final Order Cutoff day up by 1 day, further distancing themselves from the rest of the industry.
Free Comic Book Summer is… a thing?
Future retail expectations in a Covid-19 world.
We changed up our back issues and they look so pretty!

Moving From Hit to Hit

Mon, 13 Jul 2020 02:26:48 +0000

Patrick was interviewed by David Harper for SKTCHD.com's mid-year check-in.
Richie Kotzen rules!!
Lots of comic companies and retailers got Paycheck Protection loans.
Marvel + Scholastic = The Future.
A brief AEW digression.
Diamond's Pullbox is here!

Wear Your Damn Masks!

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 02:02:08 +0000

We sure love repeating ourselves!
Sorry subscribers, but your DC pulls will not be in the weekly emails for a while.
We sure love repeating ourselves!
Negan Lives is not a rare comic! Walking Dead The Alien is scarcer.
Wear your damn masks!!
Our first DC Comics delivery from Lunar.
A small shipment of books from British publisher Shortbox.
Marvel is grabbing licensed properties (that they don't need).
July 6th sees us return to being open 7-days per week! But still closing at 5pm for 6 of them.
I assure you, we are open to in-store shopping.
Dal's comics picks for September!

Foot Fist Frankenstein

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 05:40:21 +0000

It's a bonus mid-week episode!
Comic creator Tom Kelly joins Patrick to talk about all the things that go into making your own graphic novel!
Going to school to study graphic design. Getting a job in graphic design. Going back to school to study comic art. Making comic art! Setting up at conventions. Drawing Hello Kittys. Running a Kickstarter campaign!
And so much more!
You can check out the Foot Fist Frankenstein Kickstarter here:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/footfistfrankenstein/foot-fist-frankenstein-a-monster-martial-arts-revenge-comic
FOOT FIST FRANKENSTEIN is a 120-page hardcover graphic novel that blends together Monsters, Comic Books and Martial Arts movies. Foot Fist Frankenstein is an action adventure revenge story, think John Wick meets the Hulk by way of Kung Fu theater. It's the story of a monster, who after finally finding happiness and peace, has it cruelly ripped away and the revenge mission he undertakes as a result.

Resolute Carnage

Sun, 28 Jun 2020 22:43:44 +0000

Patreon will now start charging tax for rewards. Here's how we're trying to minimize it for you.
How do you draw a star?
Chicago is now in Phase 4, so please, PLEASE wear a face mask.
The new DC Comics variant cover program for Batman Three Jokers.
'I hate doing this but I need my job'
Marvel reduces their Empyre crossovers by 20 titles.
We're pulling all 24 chapters of the 'X of Swords' crossover for everyone that already gets X-MEN, unless you tell us NOT to.
Next year's Marvel summer crossover?
Thanks, Patrons!
Patrick's ALZ5K in remembrance of his Mom (http://rememberingfrances.com)

Nothing Feels Normal

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 01:00:44 +0000

Expanding our hours slightly in July.
What is Octopus and how will it help us run our Shopify online store? http://challengers-comics.myshopify.com
Our "Keep Reading Comics" Kickstarter is over.
Trying to use DC Connect as an ordering catalog.
All our DC Direct orders (action figures and statues) have been cancelled.
Shipping woes from the new comic book distributors.
Image has a new Sales Manager.
The forced excitement over Gold Lantern.
What % of each New Girl character are you?
Free Comic Book Summer?
Negan Lives as the Walking Dead returns for 1 more issue.
Ordering 3 Jokers.

They Flee Into The Night

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 02:45:20 +0000

What? We're NOT starting with DC Comics this episode? No, we are.
More new distribution channels.
Fun with (new) windows!
Patrick injury update (get used to these).
Jeanna Challenger is back at the shop and Kent returns this Thursday!
The plan to reorganize our back hallway (next month).
Having to rent another storage unit.
Remembering Denny O'Neil.
September's new Iron Man comic looks real good!!
Batman comic sales since re-opening.
Black Lives Matter banner.

Keep Reading Comics T-Shirt Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/challengers/keep-reading-comics-t-shirt-designed-by-gene-ha
Patrick's ALZ5K in remembrance of his Mom (http://rememberingfrances.com)

Oh, DC Comics…

Sun, 07 Jun 2020 23:10:26 +0000

What did DC do to us this week?
#1 Lowered our discount by 20%.
Patrick's ALZ5K in remembrance of his Mom (http://rememberingfrances.com)
The further looting of Blue and the aftermath.
Red is open for in-store shopping again! But there are rules.
Black Lives Matter.
What did DC do to us this week?
#2 Left Diamond Comic Distributors
What does this mean for our Graphic Novel buying?
What does this mean for our Single Issue Comic buying?
What does this mean for our Subscribers and Special Orders?

Helping You Even If It Hurts Us

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 00:41:22 +0000

**An hour after we recorded this episode, our River North location was looted. So we start there and then go to the beginning of the episode**
(It was actually looted 6 different times during the night, but that happened after our post script)
How have DC Comics' recent actions impacted us THIS week?
Customers ignoring our pandemic procedures.
Reopening for in-store shopping (this Wednesday!)
T-Shirt Kickstarter:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/challengers/keep-reading-comics-t-shirt-designed-by-gene-ha/
Comics Fists Face Mask:
https://challengers.threadless.com/designs/comics-fists-mask
Comics are back, so of course speculators are also back.
Avengers #33 is SO GOOD!
The passing of a subscriber.
Patrick injury update and losing his Mom to Alzheimer's (http://rememberingfrances.com).
Thank you, Patrons!

The Plan We Had Was Not a Bad One

Mon, 25 May 2020 02:22:40 +0000

Guess what? Patrick's leg still hurts.
Welcome, all you Kamen Rider message board fans!
Preparing to re-open for in-store business, but then, not.
How DC Comics keeps making life so much harder for us.
DC subscription management issues.
Challengers Blue is done.
Blue bookshelves for sale!!
Making more by selling less?
The first New Comic Wednesday in 2 months.
IS the market stronger with subscribers, or without?
Shopify fun!

Update of Pain

Mon, 18 May 2020 03:21:34 +0000

Not quite a full episode, but to be honest we've had less coherent ones.
More like 30 minutes of Patrick rambling about how much his leg hurts.
Some comic things are discussed, but we'll (hopefully) be back next week with a full rundown of current events, and Dal.
Plus, new blinds! Thanks, Drew & Ashleigh!!

The Double-Release Window

Sun, 10 May 2020 22:47:58 +0000

How filming a dumb IG video put Patrick in the hospital for a few days this week.
New comics May 20th for sure!
DC wants their books to be released on Tuesdays. Too bad, DC.
Which day is the ideal day for new releases?
Marvel's temporary staggered release schedule.
Marvel's new digital first initiative. Sorry, Hawkeye, Ant-Man and Star fans.
Patron comments.
What DO we think of Chris Jericho?
Curse Words has a massive new Kickstarter happening right now!

Finding Value in Different Things

Mon, 04 May 2020 00:09:36 +0000

Mental health check-in! Do you want us to ask how you're doing?
Shipping delays are now the norm for all businesses.
Our Challengers facemasks arrived! And they are… um, masks.
When our in-store inventory doesn't match our Shopify inventory.
Local pick-up shifts from Chicago Board Game Café to Challengers Bucktown starting Monday, May 4th.
Our self-imposed rules for our IG videos.
Thanks, Patrons!
Kenny Omega is a pumpkin-headed dip$#!t!

Plastic Achievements

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 01:41:17 +0000

How do you display your action figures and their accessories?
Updates to DC Comics' new distribution plans and Diamond.
Our new online Shopify store is LIVE! https://challengers-comics.myshopify.com/
New Bucktown Pick-Up hours for May. And how the extended Illinois shelter-in-place will change what we're doing.
Explaining to our landlord the impact this all has on our business.
The ever-changing release schedule for super-hero movies.

Publisher Shortsightedness

Sun, 19 Apr 2020 23:56:12 +0000

Why we no longer swear on this podcast (for now).
The Friday News Dump.
DC Comics' new distribution plan/ultimatum.
Keeping you (and us) safe when we're allowed to re-open.
Challengers masks!
How creators are helping retailers.
Our new Shopify online store.
Making stupid videos to connect with the people we can't see in-store.
Thanks to Chicago Board Game Café!

The Comics Industry is Broken

Mon, 13 Apr 2020 00:14:24 +0000

The Comics Industry is Broken
Comics are great! The comics industry isn't.
Comics distribution 40 years ago vs Today.
Ordering comics in October 1981.
When Back Issues were king.
#LibcomixRA Wednesdays: Boost Your Local Comic Shop
The adjusted Diamond shipping schedule (for now).
No events for the foreseeable future, even after we open back up.
Football talk?? Weird.

Too Big to Fail

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 02:45:31 +0000

Sticking to our weekly routines.
Still NO new comics,
When the Illinois stay-at-home is lifted, what will be better for us…
A. Opening back up BEFORE Diamond resumes shipping new comics?
B. Opening back up AFTER Diamond resumes shipping new comics?
C. Opening back up AT THE SAME TIME Diamond resumes shipping new comics?
Marvel and DC delay their digital releases, for a bit…
Diamond's financial woes.
What would a (hypothetical) future without Diamond/single-issue-comics look like for Challengers?
Comic Hub as a point-of-sale program.
Comic Hub as a digital comics platform.

Servicing the Public

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 00:48:34 +0000

Part of this was recorded as Patrick and Dal hand-delivered comics to people in Chicago! And by "hand-delivered" we mean left on porches at a respectable distance.
Some comic book publishers are trying to work around the fact that printers are shut down and Diamond is no longer accepting comics.
How Blackmask, TKO Studios and Vault are helping retailers.
Thanks, Patrons!
Some very supportive people have recently bought Challengers Gift Cards online. We have yet to see the money from those purchases. Here's why.

No More New Comics

Tue, 24 Mar 2020 04:32:14 +0000

No More New Comics
A new episode immediately after the previous new episode! Things are changing THAT RAPIDLY.
Diamond Comic Distributors dropped a HUGE announcement about the immediate future of the comic book industry.
David Harper, SKTCHD.com, and Daniel Warren Johnson lend a hand.
Yes, we'll have New Comics this week, and we want to get them to you.
Dal did not, no matter what we say in this episode, get a turtle.
Are we changing over to Comic Hub? Um, maybe?

Plugging Holes in the Dam

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 01:13:29 +0000

Speculator demographics.
Artists Writers and Artisans released their first 4 comics on the same day.
More super-upbeat and not-at-all-depressing Covid-19 talk.
We're shut down! ALL of Illinois is.
What can we do about it?
How are Publishers helping Retailers during this time?

Like a Ham in a Deli Case

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 01:53:50 +0000

This episode has basically 2 main topics. What we're doing as a result of the Covid-19 Coronavirus and Bad Idea comics. Trust us, there is plenty of ground to cover with both topics.

A Challenger Loves Ya

Mon, 09 Mar 2020 00:45:31 +0000

A Challenger Loves Ya (Contest of Challengers)
Who are we and what is this podcast?
Challengers loves ya! Well, *A* Challenger loves ya.
The spread of coronavirus Covid-19 is, understandably, wreaking havoc on comic convention schedules.
Paying rent shouldn't be this complicated.
Implementing ideas that we got from Comikaza's Jackob Sareli, including Final Order Instagram posts and a Challengers Subscribers Facebook group.
Volunteer Help Wanted.
Curating the Chicago Board Game Café's graphic novel section.
DECORUM #1 comes out this week. You'll probably want to buy it.

Freshly Squeezed

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 02:40:33 +0000

Wednesday in-store anecdotes, recorded as they happened.
The final week of selling C2E2 2020 tickets! Yay!
All the way from Tel Aviv, fellow retailer Jackob Sareli joins us on the frozen, late-night streets of River North!
River North also got a visit from the Fallen Angel, AEW wrestler Christopher Daniels!
Our Friday at C2E2.
Surprising information about the new AEW wrestling action figures.
What did we buy at the show?
Thanks, Patrons!

Selling Pickaxes to Mine for Gold

Mon, 24 Feb 2020 03:04:34 +0000

This is the week that C2E2 ticket sales reach a frenzied level.
The ComicsPRO Annual Meeting s happening RIGHT NOW in Portland. And we're not there.
BOOM! Studios presentation at ComicsPRO says all the right things.
Turning the $1.00 spinner rack into a Reprint spinner rack.
What if we just stopped stocking variant covers…?
The results of 2 Twitter polls conducted this week.
Batman #89 and how DC Comics has found a new playbook for the future of comic sales, and why that is horrifying.
Dan DiDio is no longer the Co-Publisher of DC Comics.
Why does another medium have to validate comics? Why can't they be lauded for what they are?

Occasionally Happiness has Value

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 03:57:52 +0000

Transportation to Store #2.
How'd our only storewide sale of the year turn out?
New store banner woes.
Using and abusing Instagram.
The new Signing Wall in River North.
Phantom titles in Diamond's system.
It's a great week for new books this coming week!
DC got all of Dal's letters and is making a Legion of Super-Heroes 5 Years Later omnibus!

This is Bad Idea

Mon, 10 Feb 2020 06:03:20 +0000

There's a new publisher in comics, full of familiar faces, and they have a whole new take on today's publishing market.
References to AWA (Artists Writers Artisans) and TKO.
Who's up for a 5-issue Juggernaut series? We predict our sales numbers for the series.
Y'all are flocking off of Batman (and Amazing Spider-Man).
Is Dark Horse's BANG! The next big speculator book? What about DC's new character, Punchline?
Thanks, ladies!

The Current Reality of Blue

Mon, 03 Feb 2020 05:38:04 +0000

Recording star Poppy did NOT come to Bucktown today.
The making of our 1979 man-on-the-street Sale video.
January 2020 sales vs 2019.
Ryan Browne signed at both stores this week!
Please stop asking us for donations.
The reality of River North.
Consignment update.
What are we going to do for Free Comic Book Day with 2 stores?
Thanks, Patrons!

(Action) Figuring it Out

Mon, 27 Jan 2020 05:35:16 +0000

The first wave of McFarlane DC Multiverse figures are in, and we have thoughts!
Ordering Marvel Legends for the rest of the year, with no real information.
More frustration with our Point of Sale system.
April 2020 DC and Marvel solicits. More $10 80th Anniversary specials! So many Empire crossovers! More X-Men titles!
What would you rather buy, 6 X-Titles that ship twice-a-month? Or 12 X-Titles that ship once-a-month?

"Rudest. Employee. Ever."

Mon, 20 Jan 2020 02:28:46 +0000

A 1-star Yelp review + Reddit + the UK website The Poke = quite the internet week for Challengers.
One more round of identity theft, because having the last one back in October is just too long ago.
Patrick is going to be on David Harper's OFF PANEL podcast next week.
Voice-over cameo by Jeanna Challenger!

Just say "Fine."

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 01:32:50 +0000

When business is slow in Blue vs Red
The second change to Blue's layout in a month.
How we work our Back Issues.
The Local Artist section really needs to be re-sorted.
Marvel's Outlaw series announcements. And Empyre.
Remember the Kree/Skrull War? A look back.

A Positive Integer (2019 Sales Review)

Mon, 06 Jan 2020 06:18:58 +0000

Thanks, Matthew Rosenberg!!
NO subscriber complaints! We mean BY us, not ABOUT us. But we still complain about 1 customer interaction…
Top 100 Comics sales notes.
Top 100 Graphic Novels sales notes.
Overall 2019 sales notes.
Thanks, Patrons!
Some events are coming up, including our one store-wide sale… and speaking of that particular sale's T-Shirt… the artist is…

There is No Quality Control in a Field of One

Mon, 30 Dec 2019 01:09:19 +0000

Retail sure is weird this time of year!
Spending New Year's Eve at Challengers (Red).
Christmas makes us feel like we carry all the wrong things.
Club members are responding positively to our tighter subscription enforcement.
Diamond is not making it easy to give subscribers the information they need to keep their lists current.
The really great 2 days of Christmas sales.
Matthew Rosenberg wants to help us sell Hawkeye Freefall #1.
2 different color stores means 2 different color sale t-shirts. Dal has a strict rule about getting the different colors.
Patrick liked Marvel's "Incoming" special.
What did Dal like this year in Comics?

IF Things Were Running Normal…

Mon, 23 Dec 2019 01:19:48 +0000

Dal is very hungry.
You can hear the tension between Dal and Patrick at the start of this episode.
Profanity warning for around the 21 minute mark.
Theft! Things were stolen today. A chase ensued. There is no happy ending to this story.
Sales just really don't go up that much because of Christmas anymore.
The process of buying presents, and the obligation therein.
How easy this first month of the new location should have been, and the external reasons it isn't.
R.I.P. Steve Johansson and thank you for all the joy.
Merry Christmas to you.

Don't Make Us Eat Your Sandwich

Mon, 16 Dec 2019 02:37:47 +0000

Commuting between the 2 stores is all new to us. We're still learning our new routines.
Potential changes to Blue's layout, already.
Changes to the way we enforce our subscription rules for 2020. No changes to the way the subscriptions work, but we're no longer giving any slack.
Plenty of computer issues with Diamond. Still. Almost insurmountable changes… we'll see…
How warped the market is for Marvel Comics, with a hat-tip to Brian Hibbs for doing all the research.
This upcoming week of comics is H-U-G-E. It is impossible to give every comic coming out the attention it deserves.

How Quickly the Market Forgets People

Mon, 09 Dec 2019 01:56:37 +0000

Patrick was on the news talking about Chicago's new bus lanes.
"If you think like Patrick Brower, you'd be wrong!"
Johnny Cadillac
Marvel is NOT releasing too many comics…?
What would it take for Image to be a tastemaker again?
DC's new iteration of the Suicide Squad is really good!!
The new store has put Dal in performative mode.
The distance of River North. I don't remember what that means, but it was written down in the show notes, so I added it. And I also changed from third person narration to first. This is all over the place!!

Day One

Sun, 01 Dec 2019 07:34:19 +0000

The counters arrived!!
We made it. We are now a chain! 2 stores!
Hear about the final week of prep and the first day of sales.
No Black Friday Sales this year.
Batman is your friend, but only when no one else is listening.
Challengers-exclusive Diamond problems for the week. 2 of 'em!
Industry-wide Diamond issue for the week. Protect that data!!
Dark Knight The Golden Child vs China.
Arrgh! Here there be (internet) pirates!
Thanks, Patrons!
We've added another 2-Store/1-Day creator signing! With… **** ******!

Batman Has Our Back

Mon, 25 Nov 2019 01:42:16 +0000

Recorded with a Q-Mic! Can you hear the difference?
We say we're not going to talk about Blue this week, but we totally talk about Blue this week.
This was recorded on Dal's birthday. Happy Birthday, Dal!
We're very excited for our Glow signing to happen because we're fans of the creators. We're MORE excited for our Glow signing to happen so all of the phone calls will stop.
Denying yourself something until you feel you're earned it, instead of living your life.
Daniel Warren Johnson is the first creator signing at BOTH locations in the same day! Whereas Brian Crowley will be the first signing we host at Blue.
Are the comics coming out the week of Christmas enough to make people want to make the trip in on a holiday week?
Dal digs Image's Olympia.
It feels like less "Conversation" happens in Challengers pertaining to actual comic series.
The theme of Tom King's Batman, as succinctly summed up by Dal.
Diamond has a lot of programs to help new stores/new locations, and Dal got to figure them all out!
R.I.P. Tom Lyle.

2 Weeks and Counting

Mon, 18 Nov 2019 03:35:38 +0000

Recorded in Challengers River North!
We're actually pleased with our progress thus far.
Less than 2 weeks until opening day!
R.I.P. Tom Spurgeon.
Orbital Comics in London has stopped carrying single issue new comics. There was a time when we considered that, too.

That **** is Epidemic

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 04:36:39 +0000

An update on the first week of prep for Blue.
Boy, no Chicago news source cares about a new comic book shop.
Subscriber emails vs. subscribers actually reading emails.
The reactions for Dawn of X #1's.
Superman is coming out!
Where should we advertise the opening of Blue?
Are we having a Black Friday Sale (at Red) and if so, what's on sale?

Blue.

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 02:56:22 +0000

This is the 2nd biggest announcement we could possibly have.
This is huge.
This is Blue.

The Signal-to-Noise Ratio Has Not Changed

Mon, 28 Oct 2019 01:41:46 +0000

Does Dal always believe in Patrick?
A few in-store customer anecdotes.
Do people use the New Release monitor we have mounted over the New Releases?
Patrick went to DoomCo Designs "Survive" art show opening reception.
TV on in the store vs music. And that transitions into a discussion about the disappearance of previous media formats.
When looking for an exact specific thing that a stores doesn't have, do you buy a different thing instead?
Interesting customer requests today.
Marvel's Jan 2020 output vs DC's (thanks to Ryan Higgins of Comics Conspiracy for crunching the numbers).
New Year's Day's new comics, and maybe a Midnight release…?
You know Patrick and Dal, but do you know Pat and Will?
Do not miss next week's episode…

The Paradigm Shift

Mon, 21 Oct 2019 03:01:04 +0000

Do you have Faith?
Are you watching Stumptown? We like it.
The X-Men #1 Midnight Release was a fun success. That leads us to remember the fandom that once saw us go to midnight events outside of the comics industry.
More people are adding all 6 Dawn of X titles, but will they STAY on them?
DC Comics January 2020 new announcements.
Kevin Feige is the new Chief Creative Officer (or Ossifer) of all Marvel. Movies AND Publishing. Is it a paradigm shift??
We, and the comics industry as a whole, owe Jeff Smith a huge thank you. Netflix making a Bone show is a good start.
Chicago Teachers Union—we support you!!
We went to West Town Academy to help a TV Production class.
Tickets for our AJ Mendez/Aimee Garcia signing are available here: http://tinyurl.com/glowsigning
Kent Fremon has a vinyl toy art show at Galerie F on Friday, October 25! More info here: https://www.facebook.com/events/546222529466484/

We Looked Down

Mon, 14 Oct 2019 00:57:02 +0000

The Batman's Grave #1 is good. Doctor Doom #1 is also good!
X-Men #1 is out next week (at midnight) but what are the other Dawn of X books going to be about? We don't know.
Luke Healy is coming to teach a fun cartooning workshop at Challengers!
We have a date for our AJ Lee & Aimee Garcia GLOW vs The Babyface signing! And a time!
What is DC Comics' 5G? Fifth Generation?
Marvel uses the ghost of Stan Lee to take shots at comic book continuity.
Marvel took a ton of flack for Sam Wilson Captain America, Riri Williams Iron Man (Heart), etc., won't DC encounter the same?
Who replaces whom?
We're excited for Legion of Super-Hero flight rings! But not excited to explain who the Batman Who Laughs is.
This week's Amazing Spider-Man has checklists for both Absolute Carnage and 2099. How many Spider-Events can happen at the same time? Or just events, plural from one publisher?

There's Always a New Comic Event

Mon, 07 Oct 2019 03:55:39 +0000

How was business on this first Friday in October? Let's say B+.
Local Comic Shop Day returns this November, and while we took 2018 off, we're back at it… for one amazing reason.
Mack-eh-WITZ?
Thanks, Patrons!
A whole bunch of new comics for 2020, as announced at the New York Comic Con! That's literally half the episode, but there are some pretty big announcements in here! And, some clunkers!!
Bonus Saturday evening postscript!

It's Just Like a Dalliance

Mon, 30 Sep 2019 01:08:18 +0000

Patrick is an old and more-broken-than-before man. But he breaks for you.
Raina's GUTS is the best-selling BOOK in the country.
Graphic Novels are dead—all hail Graphic Books!!
Graphic Books return to the New York Times best-seller lists! Huzzah!
Diamond Comic Distributors restructures.
How Patrick's love for BBC Radio 1 got Challengers a new customer.
Too many new comic publishers releasing too many new books.
Why can't Challengers find success with the new Chris Ware RUSTY BROWN book?
Please vote for Challengers for Best Comics Shop in the Chicago Reader Best of 2019 Survey! http://chicagoreader.com/vote in the 'Buy Local' section.
The new Batman creative team!

Ship(ping) $hape

Mon, 23 Sep 2019 02:19:47 +0000

DC is making a Svengoolie/MeTV promo comic. How can we get a store signing for that?
Thank you for all the ALZ5K donations! Patrick survived.
Some titles just shouldn't ship in the same week as other.
A follow-up on last week's discussion on damaged comics.
The ridiculous math that is Diamond Comic Distributors' shipping fees. Seriously, we throw out some actual numbers—see if you can follow along. We can't.
A disconnect between the WWE Network and iTunes subscriptions.
We wrote a few pages in a new comics retail guide, "Selling Comics." It's like people think we know what we're doing, or something.
Gustavo Duarte is coming back to Challengers, all the way from Brazil!!
What does Dal really think of the JJ Abrams "Spider-Man" #1?

Because the Story is Still Inside

Mon, 16 Sep 2019 05:06:53 +0000

Why isn't every new comic on the racks in 10.0/Mint condition?
The closing of ComiXology digital storefronts.
What's been as good for retailers as House of X?
Sales ALWAYS slow down in September.
Why can't DC get readers interested in a line-wide Event? Year of the Villain just isn't cutting it.
When should a publisher start over at #1?
More Transformer Card Game events are heading our way!

Contest of Challengers 441

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 22:17:59 +0000

It's an extra episode of Contest of Challengers for the week!
We start mid-pitch as Eliot is explaining the premise of his new Aftershock comic series Midnight Vista to a prospective buyer on the Challengers' sales floor.
The other voices on this episode are Customer Brian K. and Eliot's friend (and birthday boy) Mike. There are other ambient voices in the background as this was recorded on a Saturday afternoon.
The background music gets turned down 8 minutes in (sorry Fozzy).
This is a very personal story for Eliot and after listening to it you'll most certainly want to read MIDNIGHT VISTA!

Abandoning the Comic Market Entirely

Mon, 09 Sep 2019 00:21:04 +0000

We just had a Battlepug cookout! Where were YOU??
You can make it up to us on Batman Day.
Local Saturdays.
Our thoughts on the upcoming DC 100-Page Giants.
Publishers talking honestly to retailers.
The 80/20/5 Rule.
Sales expectations for the Dawn of X titles.

Your Fandom Does Not Negate My Fandom

Mon, 02 Sep 2019 00:21:32 +0000

Why don't we do more store videos?
We can always do more promoting. Of new comics, of events, everything.
Road construction in front of the shop is always fun!
What are Doom Code Signs? I may have gotten that name wrong...
Making vinyl toys from comic books.
Spider-Man Life Story may be THE graphic novel for the gift-giving season.
A consistent set of ongoing titles that bring new readers in to stores.
Thank you for all the 29th Anniversary congratulations!
No gatekeeping!!
Equating popular comics to popular music.
The spiritual sequel to Watchmen.

The "Picking Your Pocket" Publishing Mentality

Mon, 26 Aug 2019 02:09:52 +0000

D23 is happening right now! What does "D23" stand for, anyway? We don't know.
Have you seen Marvel's solicits for November? They get bigger every month (as Patrick gets angrier).
2nd, 3rd and even 4th prints being offered before the 1st print comes out.
Can Spider-Man #1 sell more than House of X #1? We sure don't think so.
What made everyone (read: speculators) want Batman #77 and Powers of X #3 this week?
The difference between the content in a Marvel graphic novel rated "Teen +" vs a Marvel graphic novel rated for a 10-year old is… nothing.
A Glow signing? Maybe.

Be Ashamed of It

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 01:03:18 +0000

Former Pittsburgh Steelers QB Landry Jones joins the XFL! Wait—that doesn't belong here…
Caroline Cash (Girl in the World) just signed at Challengers! She was a delight and we sold books! But…
Trade-waiting! Is it by subscribers or non-subscribers?
The current trend of comic shops making videos.
Destroying this week's copies of Superman #14 (even though Patrick routinely says #13 in the episode) and Supergirl #33 (that one he gets right).
Okay, look, I did a crappy job of taking notes for this episode, I admit, so there's way more on this podcast than noted here.
We got a brief mention on Cartoonist Kayfabe!

No, Retailers, YOU Take That Risk

Mon, 12 Aug 2019 04:47:10 +0000

Patrick is a broken old man.
We so desperately want new carpet! And window blinds!
Making the consumer pay the credit card processing fee.
Paying for "convenience."
#10 in Sri Lanka, bay-bee!
AWA announced the first book in their new superhero shared universe.
Referencing Brian Hibbs' latest 'Tilting at Windmills' column (on ComicsBeat.com) about stores buying their graphic novels from more than just Diamond.
When a major publisher doesn't support the biggest release they'd had in years. Or, why we're sold out of House of X #2 already.
We got a brief mention on NPR's See, Hear, Eat!

Ten Years of Contest of Challengers

Sun, 04 Aug 2019 23:34:27 +0000

Remember Superman Unchained? Dal doesn't.
Keepin' them back issues in order!
When books disappear from your mindset (i.e. Morning Glories).
Thanks, Patrons!
What are the best Event Books, in enjoyment and in money earned?
Surge pricing and the people that merit it.
Happy 10th Anniversary, CoC!

Revenge of the Dreamers

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 02:37:08 +0000

We've got a (potentially) big event happening tomorrow and neither of us know what to expect. It's a surprise drop of the comic book tie-in to Dreamville and J Cole's "Revenge of the Dreamers III". We tell you how this came about and what we're expecting for the day. And if you don't know Dreamville or J. Cole, it's okay; we didn't, either.
House of X #1 was released this week! It's exactly what we wanted it to be and doing what we wanted it to do!
But… will the next 6 books in the "Dawn of X" era do the same?
Patrick got a new toy and you get to hear it.
Listener question about story arcs vs stand-alone mini-series.
Brian Michael Bendis was on the Late Late Show with Seth Meyers.
Caroline Cash is coming to Challengers! And also some guy names Nike Morton. Or something. We may not be sure of his name but we know he sure likes pugs.
Apple is changing the classifications for several podcast categories, including ours!
And… and UPDATE to the Dreamville event!
Okay, you know what? Shove it up your arse.

Pure Speculation

Mon, 22 Jul 2019 00:31:15 +0000

Want vs need.
Rewarding you for sharing in our ecosystem.
Captain Marvel #8 is what the swarm went for this week.
Customer databases.
Information integrated into your life.
Top-selling books for the nation vs @ Challengers (Black Cat vs. Dceased).
How many young reader imprints can the market bear?
The first of the Comic-Con International San Diego publishing announcements.

Bad or Wrong Comics

Mon, 15 Jul 2019 05:04:35 +0000

We start with several new comic series announcements—it must be time for Comic-Con!
A serious question about second prints.
With all the demand over the Walking Dead #193, we missed out on TMNT #95.
Additional June sales commentary.
Which comics sold better after a TV adaptation?
39 questions from an interviewer that we do not want to type out.

We Are the Retail Dead

Sun, 07 Jul 2019 23:22:49 +0000

How can we make this podcast better? Puppies.
Walking Dead #193 came out the day of recording, and it reminds us of everything we hate about comics retail. Oh, we have a LOT to say about this.
Wanting to engage with the product is a huge part of what we do.
June sales numbers. Why did June suck? It's a deep dive into the differences between June 2019 and June 2018, and what that means for us.
It's basically a 2-topic episode, but both of those topics get a lot of bandwidth.
Come meet Kami Garcia and Gabriel Picolo on Friday, June 12th!
Thanks, Patrons!

Next Thing vs Next BIG Thing

Sun, 30 Jun 2019 23:14:01 +0000

Why was last episode a day late?
Genre-racking graphic novels, one year later.
The polarizing business strategy of Colorado's Mile High Comics.
The future DC Comics rebranding and a brief look back at all their previous imprints.
Comics growing with you as you age.
War of the Realms and the current state of Marvel's Event books.
How to summarize your comic book.
Contest of Challengers Bingo continues! https://bingobaker.com/play/2017273

You Have Earned None of My Excitement

Mon, 24 Jun 2019 22:14:18 +0000

The marketing genius of Taylor Swift.
J.J. Abrams' Spider-Man.
37,000 photo views?
No, X-Men Grand Design X-Tinction #2 did NOT come out this week.
Getting an 8th-grader to work for school credit.
Marvel Comics #1000+1
Superman Year One
Really fun Teen Titans Raven signing announcement.
Contest of Challengers Bingo continues! https://bingobaker.com/play/2017273

Harley and Ivy's FRIENDship

Sun, 16 Jun 2019 23:30:57 +0000

Mistaken identity!
Thanks, Patrons!
Making money vs. making people happy.
Buncha new comics news! Legion, Flash, Harley & Ivy, King Thor, etc.
Absolute Carnage post-credit scenes.
The DC Artgerm Poster Portfolio.
The Comic in a Box game we haven't played.
Upcoming events!
Contest of Challengers Bingo continues! https://bingobaker.com/play/2017273

Come for the Lamb; Leave with the Dinosaur

Sun, 09 Jun 2019 23:19:37 +0000

Markisan Naso joins Patrick for a wide-ranging conversation that covers it all!
Designing a comic-themed beer!
Earlier years of comic book journalism and Darwyn Cooke.
Of course they plug Challengers' upcoming Voracious signing with Markisan and Jason Muhr on Saturday, June 22 (11am – 3pm). I mean, they'd be fools NOT to!!
What IS Voracious about, anyway? Eating dinosaurs? What?
How Markisan and Jason became a creative team.
Which animals have you eaten? Taco Bell, and wrestling.
The inspirational properties of Grant Morrison. And mead.
The great runs of Thor.
Finding the perfect color artist.
Free stuff you can get at the above-mentioned signing!

You're Making ME Do MY Job

Sun, 02 Jun 2019 23:49:28 +0000

We 100% value you, our Wednesday Angels (Wednesday Angels ™ & © 2019 Challengers Inc).
A not-short story about trying to buy a new car (but it relates to comics retail, we promise).
The follow-up to last week's Tom King news.
Soliciting orders for a 2nd print before the final orders are due for the 1st print.
White Trees = D&D Dream Daddy.
One great solicitation blurb, and then a not-great one. You know, for comparison.
Reinterpreting Vampirella.
Contest of Challengers Bingo continues! https://bingobaker.com/play/2017273

One Day To0 Early

Mon, 27 May 2019 01:00:10 +0000

All the upcoming concerts that will cause some adjustments to the CoC recording schedule.
Dal's (very brief) visit to Sarasota.
Okay, so we have a lot of speculation about Tom King leaving Batman. A mere 1 day later, so much more of DC's future Bat-Plans have come out, but we didn't know that when this was recorded, so bear that in mind when listening to this part.
DC's attempted revitalization of their core characters.
If we thought the July catalog was rough…
The season finale of DC's CW shows.
HBO's Barry is SO GOOD. Sure that's not comic-related, but it's still a great show.
Our future Back Issue plans.
The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl is ending at #50.
British writers rally against Brexit (and the next day Theresa May resigns—man, a lot happened from Thursday to Friday!!)
Contest of Challengers Bingo continues! https://bingobaker.com/play/2017273

We're About Bringing Families Closer Together

Sun, 19 May 2019 21:31:59 +0000

Just your average episode with 2 comic shop owners talking about business!
How we now order DC "B" covers.
Ordering for July is soul-crushing.
The difference between schilling and imparting information.
Filling requests by any means necessary.
Reporting all damages, shortages and overages.
An alternate take on Free Comic Book Day.
When the deep discount offer just isn't worth it, even if you qualify.
Is it time to stop hosting signings and events?
Contest of Challengers Bingo continues! https://bingobaker.com/play/2017273
Co-hosted by Mitchell Davies from All Star Comics in Melbourne, Australia!

The One Where We Get Angry

Mon, 13 May 2019 01:45:40 +0000

What is Marvel Comics #1000? I'm sorry, we mean WHY is (it called) Marvel Comics #1000?
How do we keep track of customer wants when they ask for books that don't yet exist? We're looking at YOU, 3 Jokers…
Baker & Taylor, our secondary distributor, no longer wants our business (or that of any independent bookstore).
Oni Press and Lion Forge are merging. That's causing layoffs and some employees are not taking it well. Should they?
Well-known DC Comics artist Patrick Gleason has just signed an exclusive contract with Marvel. Is he the last of the 1-company artists?
We survived our first (and last 12-hour Free Comic Book Day! Did YOU have fun?
Contest of Challengers Bingo continues! https://bingobaker.com/play/2017273

Get Ready for the Little Girls

Mon, 06 May 2019 03:48:50 +0000

It's an interview episode with Nicholas Aflleje & Sarah DeLaine from the brand new Image Comics graphic novel LITTLE GIRLS.
Who are they? What is Little Girls about? How did it come about?
They're going to be at Challengers on Monday, May 13th, for a full on release party!
Featuring LIVE MUSIC from both Kachi The Band and Gentle Heat!
More info on all the music!!
Kachi The Band: https://kachitheband.bandcamp.com/
Gentle Heat: https://gentleheat.bandcamp.com/
And check out the Little Girls Soundtrack: https://littlegirlsognmusic.bandcamp.com

We Are Not Your Marketing Plan

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 00:42:16 +0000

Listener questions! You (2 of you) had questions (7 questions) and we have answers (way more than 7 answers).
The Doomsday Clock collection plans.
How much effort is a 25¢ comic worth to us?
The upcoming Jimmy Olsen and Lois Lane comics look excellent!
Another retailer tries to co-opt our FCBD Facebook event page.
What is going on with the Jensen Plating Works building? I mean, we don't know!
Contest of Challengers Bingo continues! https://bingobaker.com/play/2017273

Why Are You So Mean?

Mon, 22 Apr 2019 00:52:06 +0000

New POP Vinyl's… always new POP Vinyl's.
Why don't we do more Patreon Exclusive episodes?
101WKQX did some filming in Challengers this week.
The Little Bird #1 Sales Battle is over.
X-23 is also over, along with all non-Hickman X-Titles.
Marvel Comics' July 2019 solicitations are insane.
Valkyrie is a comic that needed to not be announced so soon. It looks great but it also ruins current storylines.
Get hyped for our LITTLE GIRLS Release Party!
Contest of Challengers Bingo continues! https://bingobaker.com/play/2017273

Bending Over Backwards to Not Buy Anything

Mon, 15 Apr 2019 02:07:34 +0000

Never before in 11 years—a $0 cash day!
Jumping thru hoops to be a part of the Wizards Play Network (for the Transformers card game).
Bag-switching is still shoplifting, you know.
Trying to change our payment terms with Diamond.
Contest of Challengers Bingo continues! https://bingobaker.com/play/2017273
There are new safety protocols in place for picking up the weekly comics shipment at Geodis.
BOOM! Studios stealth-launches a new Angel comic book series!
Star Wars Celebration is bringing a bunch of new people into the shop and that's really cool.
WWE independent contractors Rusev and Lana say they are preparing to write the best-selling comic book of all time.

A Four-Quadrant Hit

Mon, 08 Apr 2019 06:00:42 +0000

First! A conversation with CAKE (Chicago Alternative Comic Expo) organizer Jon Mastantuono about CAKE's upcoming art auction and what to look forward to for this year's show.
Not recorded in a moving car!
Dal played host to a group (gaggle? swarm? murder?) of Scouts in-store this Monday.
2019 has seen a sharp increase in donation requests.
Contest of Challengers Bingo continues! https://bingobaker.com/play/2017273
The Comics Omnivore project from Coliseum of Comics.
Wrapping up the Little Bird Sales Battle.
Last minute product changes: Typos vs outright misinformation.
Anticipating which books will garner speculator attention is a fool's game.
You just can't trust comics retailers

Road Trip! Heading out to Kokomo Toys.

Mon, 01 Apr 2019 03:16:54 +0000

We turned 11 today!
It's the return of everybody's favorite— a recorded-in-a-moving-car episode (showing you why Car Con Carne is recorded in a stationary car).
Bluetooth hijinks make listening to the first 36 minutes of this episode more challenging than usual! Up to the 36 minute mark.
Contest of Challengers Bingo is a real thing! https://bingobaker.com/play/2017273
War of the Realms #1 may overshadow every other Marvel book next week, so why release Marvel Team-Up #1 and Major X #1 on the same day?
A few more notes about C2E2 2019.
Visiting Comics Cubed in Kokomo, Indiana.
Kokomo Toys is large and filled with toys from your childhood.

What Do You Expect from a Comic Convention?

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 03:24:53 +0000

Detective Comics #1000 is the new C2E2 tickets, for this week, at least.
A minor (Challengers) controversy of an upcoming Previews cover featuring Wicked + Divine.
Our C2E2 2019 recap.
An Epic Photo Opp experience.
The Young Bucks and Kenny Omega are actually on this podcast!
Our early-morning Diamond/Marvel breakfast.
Marty & Sarah tell you all about Champion's Day!

Maybe Your Horizons Will Be Broadened

Mon, 18 Mar 2019 00:11:08 +0000

Alternate episode title: "High-Fives from Dal!"
C2E2 is just about here, and we cannot wait!! …to not have to sell tickets anymore this year.
The week's tally of publishers' emails.
If he didn't work in comics but still shopped for comics, how would Dal do it?
The fun of selling Little Bird #1.
Dal built us a new website!! You should give it a look at http://challengerscomics.com
Free Comic Book Day details and the announcement of our Little Girls Release Party!
Any news come out of Emerald City Comic Con yet this week?

You Gotta Tell Us You Want It

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 04:25:37 +0000

Current publishing practices we just don't understand (such as releasing 2 new #1's one week but 0 the next; uneven numbering).
Who is the new Transformers comic series for? More people than you may realize.
So many good books are coming out this upcoming week!!
An interview with local artist and comic format innovator Rachel Bard.
Is it ever a good sign when publishers seek investors?
What we look for in emails from publishers, and how what we don't look for may benefit other stores.

How to Enjoy These Stories

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 01:54:56 +0000

This episode rundown will not be in the order these topics are discussed on the show.
How we choose each week's front counter Challengers Choice.
Future Instagram strategy and we don't mean Gwenpool posts.
Challengers was (very briefly) mentioned on BBC Radio 1.
The 2019 Sale Shirts are in!
Mercenary sales grabs can be fun (DCeased) and can just be blatant (Return of Wolverine).
Which should have more content, the single issue comics of a graphic novel or the collection itself?
Yes, you can take photos and/or video in Challengers, but we'd appreciate it if you ask us first.

Don't Rent Next to Us-- We Sell COMICS!

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 05:51:08 +0000

The perception of Challengers to the non-comics population. Apparently we are a business for neighbors to be warned about.
The ComicsPRO Annual Meeting is happening right now, and we're not there! But retailers and publishers alike are making plans to save the industry, so let's talk about that!
Specifically DC Comics and BOOM! Studios, and not Marvel. Marvel is NOT helping.
Marvel has 115 single issues of comics coming out in May (that does not include variant covers or graphic novels).
Yes, Queensrÿche does play a role in this week's episode, but not with their music.
Surprise Friday store visit from Patrick's Dad! He hasn't been to the store in 4 years!
Ashly cleaned the hell out of the store today! We mean, someone has to now that Donovan is gone.

Selling Comics the Analog Way

Sun, 17 Feb 2019 22:06:32 +0000

It is very difficult to sell comics when the device you use to sell said comics does not function.
…and other computer problems for the day.
The liberating feeling of having a problem you cannot solve, and just accepting that and moving on with your day.
Marvel's just-announced Savage Avengers comic seems like a dumb idea on the surface, but we were all 10 years old once, and it'll probably do well for them.
Challengers readers seem to be unimpressed with the current run of Justice League.
No love for undersea kingdoms or spaced-out cosmic deities here, nor fantasy comics.
Challengers is in a "Little Bird" sales battle with All Star Comics in Melbourne!
Our "I Love You But I've Chosen Comics" sale turned out okay after all.
How to surface the comic-buying experience via a new website layout.
We're doing a midnight release for Detective Comics #1000.
Alita: Battle Angel was more enjoyable of a movie than either of us expected.

Why We Don't Have What You Want to Buy

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 02:41:16 +0000

We're 2 days into our annual sale and people either take full advantage of it or don't even realize there IS a sale.
It seems Marvel trade paperback collections CAN be made better and less expensive… but they're not.
Aside from a little warping, the Kaijumax Deluxe Hardcover is an amazing achievement in deluxe collectibles. Everything we ever wanted and more we didn't even know we needed!
Getting back to the sale, people sure will go to some lengths to get what they feel they deserve.
Have you tried the new Daredevil #1? It's REALLY good. No idea why the whole thing was "classified" by Marvel, but you should probably read it.
Are secret identities even a thing in comics anymore?
We're sorry we don't have what you want to buy, but also we're not sorry.

We're Not Heroes for Being Open in -20° Weather

Mon, 04 Feb 2019 05:14:50 +0000

We were guests on the Graphic Novel TK podcast! It was a fun time. Maybe check it out?
Some days Twitter is harder to understand than others.
Peter Cannon Thunderbolt #1 is a good read.
If we thought LAST week was slow due to the cold weather…
What to eat when working on a day when over 200 Chicago restaurants are closed?
Our 25% Off Storewide Sale starts on Thursday!
Are $9.99 graphic novels effective?
Have we considered connecting to buyers through the shop owners they like?
The Captain Marvel movie wave Marvel Legends figures are in, with some interesting figure choices.

Too Cold vs Cold Hard Cash

Mon, 28 Jan 2019 06:16:20 +0000

So cold in Chicago nobody's coming into the shop.
We'll soon have a new retail neighbor and we have a new security system in place.
Little Bird and Assassin Nation are 2 new Image books Patrick really likes.
Administrative shake-ups in the DC Comics offices.
Initial orders vs. final orders-- what's the best way to order new comics?

We Are Not Key Retailers

Mon, 21 Jan 2019 01:32:58 +0000

Dal and Patrick were both jurors for CAKE (Chicago Alternative Comics Expo) applicants again this year, and our scores were due today.
Image Comics is offering full returnability on some of their upcoming #1 issues, and an earned higher discount on issue #2's.
Dal tricked Patrick into watching the Spider-Man Far From Home trailer, and he wasn't even trying to do so.
Dark Horse's upcoming INVISIBLE KINGDOM from Berger Books is really, really good. More on it next week.
We had yet another Challengers customer visit All Star Comics in Melbourne this week.
Big Bang Comics from Dublin had a really interesting Twitter thread about today's comics retail market and how retailers don't seem to blame themselves.
Kelly Thompson should not be the only one promoting her new digital release from Marvel.
No, we won't sell you 15 copies of Ironheart #2 on the day it comes out.
Marty + Sarah (Love Wrestling) are coming to Challengers on Easter Sunday!

Dal's Shocking Suggestion for the Future of Monthly Comics

Mon, 14 Jan 2019 01:53:52 +0000

We appreciate the few new ratings and reviews we've gotten on iTunes. Please keep 'em coming!
Thank you for the past 10 years, Donovan!
An in-depth look at the graphic novel sales of 2018.
An even more in-depth look at 2018's single issue comic sales.
Dal has a very progressive (and perhaps polarizing) suggestion for the future of Marvel and DC single issue comics.
Listener questions! How do we think the break between story arcs help Image comics sales? And why don't we make comic sets of grab bags?

2018 vs 2017

Mon, 07 Jan 2019 06:02:54 +0000

Do you think the Bears will make it to the Super Bowl? Against the Chargers? (EDIT: Um... no)
It's January, so that means it's once again time for others to predict the death of the direct market!
Graphic Novel sales seem down in stores across the country, but not at Challengers.
DC's Zoom and Ink are a good idea but we don't know that they'll land with our customer base.
The white-washing of Damian Wayne.
Yes, the industry is evolving, but it needs to evolve.
All the problems retailers are identifying now feel like things we've already been thru.
2018 sales by category vs 2017 sales.
Patrick's niece was in Australia on her honeymoon, so we asked her to swing by All-Star Comics in Melbourne and give them a little Chicago care package.
We're pretty excited for WrestleKingdom 13, but it'll have happened by the time you hear this, so never mind.
Post-credit tribute to Mean Gene Okerlund (from CoC #314).

Experiences are Dead

Mon, 31 Dec 2018 03:36:21 +0000

Diamond Comic Distributors catches Patrick's ire one last time for the year.
Some customers only see what they want to see.
Some stores got next week's book's last Monday. We still don't have them.
Specifically nerdy Christmas gifts we received.
With almost nothing new on the shelves the week of Christmas, people are finding some older comics, and that's neat.
Keep Reading Comics n 2019!!
At the start of 2018, we tried to plan more experiences than signing. That did not work.
Lucy Knisley returns to Challengers in March! As does Women's Comics Month.

Ho-Ho-Ho-ing Our Way Thru the Season

Mon, 24 Dec 2018 02:32:13 +0000

It's a Christmas episode! Just by the fact that it's recorded in late December. Also, Santa has a cameo, and so does Stan Lee.
Another long-running comic shop is calling it quits.
Santa came to hang out and spread some Holiday Cheer this Wednesday, and he made a video to remind subscribers to pick up their comics. And then we decided to share it with other stores…
Marvel's Stan Lee tributes make selling those comics just a little bit harder.
New Comic Releases for the next 2 weeks are kind of weird; the content and the actual shipping dates.
An audio transcript of the 'Email Primer' we're giving out to all subscribers in 2019.
The Christmas Eve release of the newest Dogman graphic novel.
#joinin
And, unlike the Aquaman movie, this episode has a post-credits scene! (Aquaman has a MID-credits scene, but not a POST-credits scene)

Maybe There Should Have Been Borders After All

Mon, 17 Dec 2018 05:59:58 +0000

Why, as a small, retail business, would you not offer gift cards?
Once again, our Peoples Gas account was swiped by a condo resident in our building.
The Record Store in Howell, NJ, is going out on their own terms.
Oh, Border Town... (This segment is what this episode's title refers to).
"TKO does things a little differently than most publishers." True, but that isn't necessarily different GOOD.

Marvel Movies vs. Marvel Comics

Mon, 10 Dec 2018 01:06:19 +0000

I dunno, how do YOU swipe credit cards thru the card reader?
An update to a prior subscriber story, and Patrick's 2 favorite ways to overreact.
Sending comics to prison. For inmates; not to punish the comics themselves.
Our lateral back issue filing cabinets are now fully functional.
The Avengers Endgame trailer is out and Patrick will not watch it. But Dal will. And did.
The effect of the Marvel Cinematic Universe on Marvel Comics.
There is going to be a 3rd Conan series, and he'll be in Avengers No Road Home.

Stop Being Offensive

Mon, 03 Dec 2018 03:02:49 +0000

400 episodes of this? Damn.
We "acquired" 2 new back issue cabinets. After days of work, they're not what we expected.
November was not a great sales month and it ended on a really bad week. Construction + snow = a less than $100 day (for the first time in many years).
Patrick's car need over $1900 of work done in November.
Subscriber visits over the Holiday season and the GoFundMe for Cave Comics.
Speaking if subscribers, it's time to drop more of them out of our pull and hold service.
The Mutiny, a Chicago icon dive bar, is closing after 30 years.
The new Buffy the Vampire Slayer comic looks pretty good.
Publisher output the week of Christmas is not that great this year.

Working Hard vs. Hardest Working

Mon, 26 Nov 2018 02:04:28 +0000

Working Hard vs. Hardest Working
This episode was recorded immediately following our 2018 Black Friday sale.
We never seem to sell out of the stuff we want to get rid of.
Getting burned when subscribers have books on hold for months that they never wanted.
Reminding subscribers, in person, the value of our weekly emails.
The detailed account of either a subscriber losing 2 comics or us making 5 mistakes 2 months in a row.
How Monday pick-up was taken away from us.
Are customer attitudes regional or national?
One final Lumberjanes Day reminder.
Christmas shopping as customers, not retailers.

The Chicago "Put-That-Back-We're-Not-Buying-That" Fair

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 05:24:14 +0000

Rest in Peace, Stan.
Recorded live from the show floor of ChiTaG, the Chicago Toy and Game Fair, the worst we have ever done at a convention.
This one almost broke us.

Don't Know What Ya Got Until Someone Else Buys It

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 02:35:20 +0000

The level of engagement we feel defines Challengers.
When trivial information becomes exceedingly useful.
"+ Conversation" doesn't apply to movie theories.
Selling some 1978 Marshall Rogers Detective Comics for 99¢ we didn't know we had.
Store signage only works if people are willing to read signs. Or see them.
Changes to our personal work schedules for the first time in years, and why.
ChiTaG is one week away and we THINK we're ready.
Grant Morrison's Green Lantern #1 came out this week.
Lumberjanes Day is coming up! So is our Black Friday Sale and more events!

The Job Gets Harder as You Get Older

Mon, 05 Nov 2018 03:07:18 +0000

The Isola collection available in comic shops doesn't have the prologue story that the Barnes & Noble edition has.
Somehow we missed ordering 3 issues of Die! Die! Die!
The 50 Most Favorite Comic Shops in the US (not the Best; the most Favorite).
Sincere regards to Barry and Jayme of Southern Fried Comics as they're choosing to close their shop.
Patrick has 2 similar ideas for plastic and tote bag usage in the shop.
We now have an actual comic book spinner rack of $1 comics.
What if we really made a go of Halloween Comicfest in 2019?
We have a new Lumberjanes Event coming on December 1st with multiple creators.
The Mark Waid Legal Defense Fund.

Don't Yuck Somebody's Yum

Mon, 29 Oct 2018 04:11:47 +0000

Patrick talked to Aubrey Sitterson and Chris Moreno about The Comic Book Story of Professional Wrestling. And the recording turned out to be virtually unlistenable due to technological issues. So… Patrick recreates the conversation entirely in his voice, minus most of his actual dialog. Sound weird? It is! But it was too good of a conversation to not share. Now it's a monologue!
Bonus: the actual nigh-undecipherable interview is included. Sorry, Aubrey! Sorry, Chris! Curse you, Pamela (the program; not a person)!
Including: The democratizing of opinion sharing; "Worth", their previous graphic novel collaboration; pro wrestling, of course!
Not mentioned: Aubrey and Patrick each wrote dialog for Mike Norton's "Battlepug" and for the same characters!

The Guts of It All

Mon, 22 Oct 2018 01:46:35 +0000

Just like episode #177 from 4 years ago, Patrick is recovering from surgery so Dal has to work every day. That leads to asking if time away makes one like comics more or less than being at a store all the time?
If we become millionaires (outside of comics retail, of course) would Challengers still exist?
Trying to keep all-ages single issues in stock.
So far there are 2 Christmas gift-worthy graphic novels for the season.
There are so many Tillie Walden books available!
2 comics of note this week are Exorsisters #1 and Shuri #1.
If you like Monstress, do you want more books like Monstress? Or just more Monstress?
We held 3 events in the past week.
Dal recaps his Ace Comic Con experience.
Are you excited for DC's new creative teams on some of their core characters?
Is John Byrne coming back to the X-Men?

There are No Photo Ops for This Episode

Mon, 15 Oct 2018 02:18:46 +0000

This episode does not contain an interview with Aubrey Sitterson and Chris Moreno from The Comic Book Story of Professional Wrestling, and we tell you the unfortunate reason why.
Hopefully, the end of the continuing story of Challengers and our alarm company.
Paperwork and bureaucracy!
Ace Comic Con Chicago is happening. Great for celebrity photo ops! No so much for, you know, comics.
Jook Joint #1 is pretty brutal, but certainly worth the read.
It's pretty ballsy of Marvel to pay tribute to Ghost Rider creator Gary Friedrich.

It's Up to You, New York (Comic Con)

Mon, 08 Oct 2018 04:38:32 +0000

Good news-- we did not get broken into this week! So that's 1 week in a row!
The continuing story of Challengers and our (for now) alarm company. Add that to our wonky A/C bent front door and we have 3 too many maintenance issues at the moment.
More security measures will be put into place.
The New York Comic Con was going on as we recorded this, so we talk about some of the announcements that had been made.
And then… things take a slightly dark turn as we're not really excited by the slate of announcements. And by 'not really excited' we mean pretty much straight up angry.

Please Stop Robbing Us

Mon, 01 Oct 2018 01:27:02 +0000

Dark Matter has a new retail coffee shop right across the street from Challengers.
We got broken into and robbed… again.
We loved Heroes in Crisis #1 and don't understand people that are so anti-Tom King.
Dal is looking forward to Gran Morrison's Green Lantern. Patrick, not so much.
More love for Man-Eaters #1, now that it's actually on sale!
Doctor Strange has been really good and just had a neat twist.
Batman Damned is now quarterly and #1 is not being reprinted at this time. We hope that decision changes…

Batman Damned If You Do

Mon, 24 Sep 2018 02:13:31 +0000

It's almost time for our health insurance plans to be cancelled!
If you complain that comics cost too much, maybe reevaluate your buying choices.
What if a creator you love did something you have a serious moral objection to?
And yes, there is a comic that shows Bruce Wayne's penis. If you want it for that reason alone, just own up to it.

Something Stinks in Comics Retail

Mon, 17 Sep 2018 04:53:36 +0000

The new DC Universe streaming service started today. Did we subscribe? If we did, did it work?
The full Batman Day 2018 rundown, and comparisons to past events. Also, looking to 2019 and Batman 80th Anniversary. Also, Patrick cannot count… or add.
Batman Damned #1 comes out next week and it's already sold out.
Marvel stealth-cancelled the brand new Vision mini-series before we could even turn in our orders for #1.
Something smells bad in comics retail…
And maybe we do know what we're doing after all.

The Cost of Doing Business

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 05:48:45 +0000

From the sound of glass shattering you'd think "Stone Cold" Steve Austin was on his way to the ring, but NO! It's a break-in at Challengers. And, unrelated, identity theft! It's a great week for criminals at Challengers' expense! And we do mean 'expense.'
Hear how we deal with these types of highly disappointing, yet not wholly unexpected, occurrences.
Plus, the aftermath of the Ryan Browne GHA hardcover release party.

This + This, Only Violent!

Mon, 03 Sep 2018 01:29:52 +0000

Recorded mere moments before it's posted, this episode is almost completely unedited. Time the pauses! Count the "ummm's"!
Do you want your receipt?
No more signatures for chip card purchases?
Paying it forward for younger readers? Probably not.
Some DC news out of this weekend's Fan Expo Toronto.
A brief interview with "Ryan Browne."
Lots of new events!

Furious with Marvel, Yet Again.

Mon, 27 Aug 2018 01:28:08 +0000

Friday started with a Disaster Pizza (™ & ©). Maybe not comic news, but it happened IN a comic shop, so it counts.
Patrick is suddenly very excited for Marvel's 2019 Conan the Barbarian comic.
…but… Patrick is also furious with Marvel for a variety of reasons. All of said reasons are discussed, don't you worry.
What's going to happen in Batman #55? We honestly don't know. Do you?
Are current political comics cathartic or just too much of a reminder?
West Coast Avengers #1 and Amazing Spider-Man #4 are examined.

Finally, a sexy Mojo!

Mon, 20 Aug 2018 04:32:59 +0000

When should we have Daniel Warren Johnson in to sign for MURDER FALCON #1?
There are several new Image comics we're excited about… MAN-EATERS, CEMETERY BEACH and MCMLXXV (1975). We've gotten to read them and are excited for them all, to differing extents. Also, Black Crown's LODGER.
Closing a second location vs. closing an original location.
Is Marvel going to kill Honey Badger?
Mike Norton and Ryan Browne will be at Challengers this upcoming week. You should be, too.

Why Are They All Pooping?

Mon, 13 Aug 2018 03:49:35 +0000

It's the Gen Con Road Diaries, featuring a bunch of guest stars!
0:03:40 Brad Rooks from Oni Press.
1:05:39 Cory Casoni from Table Titans.
1:12:00 Gabo, artist of "Dead of Winter" and "The Life After."
1:16:23 Kory Bing, creator of the webcomic Skin Deep.
Plus, occasional check-ins from Patrick and Dal about their first time at "The Best Four Days in Gaming" and a rundown of the games they played after-hours (spoilers: Kyle Starks won almost everything and Patrick always came in dead last).

The 2 modes of Challengers

Wed, 01 Aug 2018 00:43:12 +0000

It's next week's episode of Contest of Challengers six days early!
Another midnight release event? Um, pass.
Koyama Press is ceasing publication in 2021, but Annie Koyama will still be an important patron of the comic book arts.
Bongo Comics is also ceasing publication, in October.
Watching new-to-comic-shops customers discover Challengers is pure joy.
Comedian Jim Jefferies went to San Diego and filmed a piece about diversity…
American white people don't like being called "White people."
There's yet another new comic-con in Chicago, ACE, in October.
We announce a new Ryan Browne event here, first!
For more information (or to maybe donate) about the Alzheimer's 5K Patrick is participating in in September, go to http://rememberingfrances.com

Out of the Woods with Zach Lehner

Sun, 29 Jul 2018 23:34:45 +0000

Zach Lehner joins Patrick in a very echo-y room to talk all about his brand new Oni Press graphic novel "Junior Brave of the Apocalypse Book 2: Out of the Woods." This conversation gets deeper than either of them expected as they dig way beneath the surface of comic book creation and the importance of Calvin and Hobbes.
Also, they play amateur detectives and explore their abandoned surroundings.
Zach is signing at Challengers all day on Wednesday, August 8th from 11am to 7pm (along with "Girls With Slingshots" creator Danielle Corsetto from 4pm -7pm, but she is not on this episode).
Bonus! Dal pops in to talk briefly about the New Japan Pro Wrestling G1 Special!

Marvel doesn't know how to make comics for kids.

Mon, 23 Jul 2018 05:23:08 +0000

Sneaky secret shoppers are apparently a thing.
It's the time of year where more mentally challenged people roam Chicago streets.
The San Diego Comic-Con is happening as we record, so we're going over a bunch of new comic news. Or, other news that has an impact on our business.
Wizards of the Coast are raising prices on Magic the Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons product.
IDW will be publishing all-ages comics featuring Marvel Comics characters. Apparently Marvel doesn't know how to make comics for kids.
Kelly Thompson is writing Jessica Jones. Gasp! We had NO idea!
Donny Cates is overseeing the new Marvel Knights MK20 line.
There are a ton of new Spider-related Marvel comics and Batman-related DC comics heading our way soon.
Oh, that DC Universe "Titans" trailer…
Just lots more announcements and what we think of them.

Die! Robert Kirkman! Die!

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 04:12:28 +0000

Whoops, that header is a mistake. It should read, "DIE!DIE!DIE! by Robert Kirkman. Darn typos.
"That's not what I would do if I put a gun to your head." is an actual quote from this episode.
Lots of FF #1 covers are coming out. We're not ordering them.
Marvel has several non-announcement teasers leading into San Diego.
So many good comics came out this week! X-23 #1! Superman #1! She Could Fly #1! Amazing Spider-Man #1! Nancy Drew #2!
New event announcements! Mike Norton "Lil' Donnie" signing and Word Balloon recording! Batman Day 2018!
MURDER FALCON! That title says it all.
As predicted on this very podcast 2 years ago, a major publisher stealth-launched a brand new comic book series by big-name creators! But… did it work?

The Engine that Turns Pain into Hope

Mon, 09 Jul 2018 04:56:41 +0000

The "proper" way to display comic books on shelves.
Daring to tell creators how to design covers.
What a time for weddings. Kitty and Colossus. Mr. and Mrs. X. Garnet (Steven Universe). The Bat and The Cat. We talk all the weddings and there are SPOILERS. We'll tell you when, so be ready (starting at 22:50).

You're What Planks Are For

Mon, 02 Jul 2018 00:59:45 +0000

This is the second episode #378 we recorded for you today. Technical difficulties caused us to lose a full 1-hour & 4-minute episode, and, professionals that we are, we immediately recorded another, completely different episode for you. It has a little bit of recap from what Dal calls "The Lost Episode" but aside from that it's all new material.
If Galactus was going to devour the Earth in one year's time, and he will not be stopped, would you want to know?
What comic creator would you want to be trapped on a desert island with?
And plenty of other stuff, but I'm not doing a full breakdown because I've already lost too much time this week.

Exclusive DC Comics for Walmart (not Comic Shops)

Mon, 25 Jun 2018 00:02:15 +0000

Two new waves of Marvel Legends figures have been selling very well.
If you overlooked The Hard Place in its 6-issue run, the trade is out now and it's worth a look.
3rd week in a row we talk about Game Stop-- they just keep giving us reason to!
How video games are played vs. how comic books are consumed.
DC Comics is selling original Tom King Superman and Brian Michael Bendis Batman comics exclusively in Wal Mart stores. How do you think we react to that??
DC's Black Label books will not necessarily be in traditional comic book formats.
We may hate to admit it, but stocking the DC "B" covers has been beneficial.
Lots of Merchandise restock is on the way… posters, pins, buttons, single issue all-ages comics, as well as a NEW Challengers bookmark! We're really happy with it (but we're ALWAYS happy with them).
The monthly ordering process is really disheartening for Patrick.

A Comic with a Point to It

Mon, 18 Jun 2018 04:50:11 +0000

Wrestling mouthpiece Jimmy Hart is coming to Challengers this Saturday!
This was almost the week that Patrick retired from comics retail.
Nancy Drew and By Night are 2 new excellent comics that both started this week.
Marvel resurrects both Iceman and the Unstoppable Wasp, both with their previous writers.
Exactly what pushes each of our retail buttons.
Oni's "Quick and Easy Guide to They/Them Pronouns" is a great resource in comic form!
What does the (possibly) looming UPS strike mean for future comic deliveries?
More on the Game Stop comic experiment.
Ultimate Comics in North Carolina had all 3 stores robbed in the same night.
Marvel is set to be producing 3 monthly Conan comics in 2019.
Geoff Johns is out as CCO of DC Entertainment. Perhaps due to AT&T buying Warner Bros.?
Tom King's upcoming "Heroes in Crisis" mini-series looks completely amazing.

What If Diamond Comic Distributors Went Away?

Sun, 10 Jun 2018 23:52:05 +0000

The new Divorce Gun album "The Waning Days of the World" is available now! iTunes, Apple Music, Amazon, Spotify, 7Digital, iHeartRadio, Napster, Tidal, Rdio, Deezer, Pandora, Shazam, and in-store at Challengers!
Diane Nelson has stepped down from her role as President of DC Entertainment.
Spider-Geddon seems way too soon to have yet another Spider-Crossover.
Game Stop is going to start selling monthly comic books. Maybe. I mean, they haven't officially announced it, but it's a thing we talk about.
Looking back at Steve Geppi's Keynote Address from this year's C2E2 Diamond Retailer Breakfast, was he trying to tell us something?
And how would we survive if Diamond went away?
As ever, we have a few new events to talk about, including asking your opinion on a Mike Norton event for the LIL' DONNIE collection.
DC is relaunching their Vertigo imprint. We're so excited for it that almost don't even mention it.

Amazon Knows Everything About You

Mon, 04 Jun 2018 03:11:17 +0000

Comixology will be producing original, creator-owned comics on their digital platform. We talk about the Forbes article about it.
We're not opposed to in-store promotion of characters that have a current media presence.
If you could only hear the sounds Patrick makes when reading the monthly Previews catalog for the first time each month.
We got a sweet Eisner "For Your Consideration" package in the mail.
It's great when parents and kids engage with comics as a family. It's not great when parents ignore their kids and let them run screaming around the store.
Thanks, Patrons!
Did you miss our Adventure Time Art Show? I mean, you probably did…
FLAVOR from Image is real good! So is MAN OF STEEL.
We ordered a bunch of different Action Comics #1000 covers (yay!) and Amazing Spider-Man #800 covers (not yay!). We're probably not doing that again…
We end with a random Divorce Gun song from the upcoming album "The Waning Days of the World."

As Passive-Aggressive as We Can Get

Mon, 28 May 2018 03:53:54 +0000

Obligatory Mach Kick (Transformers) reference! There may be one every week moving forward!
An in-depth discussion about a new Yelp review, and the responses we chose not to send.
When comic fans become comic creators, and the role comic shops play in them getting there (via Joe Field's Twitter, @FlyCoJoe).
We have a Kids Comics Workshop (with Gabi Mendez and Sheika Lugtu).
Announcing the Challengers Correspondence Club, hosted by Letter Writers Alliance co-founder Donovan Challenger!
Patrick really enjoys Image's "Skyward" and Brian Michael Bendis' "Man of Steel" #1 (out this week).
Some of the current weekly titles aren't doing as well as we were hoping.
GDPR- the new European Union security rules! We're sure you've gotten a ton of emails about this. Does it affect Challengers?
Once again a store credit card got hacked. Is paying at the gas pump to blame?

It's Not Your Fandom; It's Only For Me

Mon, 21 May 2018 02:18:20 +0000

Hyping up the Nerd Cred!
This episode is an official Public Meeting.
The new West Coast Avengers comic looks great!
The Kessel Run vs the Kobiashi Maru (and I am not looking up the actual spelling of those).
Some of the new Marvel #1's look great. Some do not.
Thundercats Roar is a thing. Thundercats + OK K.O.! + Adventure Time + Steven Universe.
What Dal wants from the DC CW shows next season.
The Dark Nights Metal soundtrack is still happening. Soundtracks to comics can be fun. You know, like Acid Washed.
Mark Millar wants the first (and only) printing of The Magic Order #1 to be a collector's item. At any rate that comic will look great.
This is our last chance to pitch our SPECTACLE Release Party with Megan Rose Gedris.
We close with Acid Washed performing "Acid Washed" from the ACID WASHED EP.

We're the "A" in YA (Young Adult)

Mon, 14 May 2018 05:00:41 +0000

My Boyfriend is a Bear is out now and really fun!!
Spectacle by Megan Rose Gedris is out in 2 weeks and we're having a circus-themed release party for it!
Free Comic Book Day 2018 is over, so of course we're working on Free Comic Book Day 2019. Ideas come out organically in this very discussion.
Contest of Challengers has a new logo… borrowed from a current DC comic.
DC is starting to offer incentive variants and we're not really on board with this plan.
More and more people are wanting just the DC variant covers each week. We've had more people ask for this week's Suicide Squad variant than we can sell of issues off the shelf. How does that even happen?
Young Animal is ending in August.
We've heard rumors of a few new DC titles and creative team changes.
Bud Plant will no longer exhibit at San Diego, after 48 years.
Random House is starting their own all-ages graphic novel imprint, and our friend Gina Gagliano is heading it! This is amazing news for the comics industry!
John Barber is the new Editor-In-Chief of IDW Publishing.
Black Badge is the new BOOM! Studios comic from Matt Kindt and Tyler Jenkins. Thing black op boy and girl scouts.
There is a "Men in Comics" panel at TCAF this weekend and it sounds wonderfully hilarious.

Free Comics For The Trash Day 2018

Mon, 07 May 2018 04:26:53 +0000

Free Comic Book Day 2018 is history! Hear our complete rundown of how the day went.
Plus! The new BCW Comic Book Bin storage box. And, ONI's My Boyfriend is a Bear!

A (Tues)Day in the Life

Mon, 30 Apr 2018 04:34:49 +0000

Ever wonder just how the comics find their way onto our shelves and into your subscription box? This episode is an in-depth look at how Patrick and Dal spend their Tuesdays, from driving to the warehouse to putting books on the racks, and every step in-between.
Plus, Kent Challenger introduces you to Tarbus the Tardigrade.

This Podcast has 10 Variant Covers

Mon, 23 Apr 2018 02:01:06 +0000

Probably the last time we'll talk about Action Comics #1000. This time, how the Midnight Release went, and how it compares to previous midnight releases.
It sure seems like Marvel wants a piece of DC's Action cover success with all their upcoming Amazing Spider-Man #800 covers (with still more to -be-announced). Too bad they're going about it in a way that doesn't help build excitement.
X-CLASSIFIED, written and drawn by CLASSIFIED starring CLASSIFIED sure isn't the way to solicit a title.
We really like Esad Ribic's art, but not his cover to Fantastic Four #1.
Lots of new customers in this week couldn't find our New Releases.
INFIDEL #2 is as good as #1, and THE DAMNED #9 is so good! As is BE PREPARED.
Michael Kupperman has "All The Answers."
We think our Book Party book club revival is already coming to an end.
Helping a colleague work thru his upcoming venture's early issues as part of a brain trust.
Genre-racking was as good of an idea as we hoped it would be.

The Adventures of Magic Space Dad

Mon, 16 Apr 2018 03:07:07 +0000

Action Comics #1000 is out this Wednesday (at 12:01am). How many covers do you plan to buy?
Are you ready for the Bendis era of Superman? Superman's past 5 years have been kind of rocky…
Nick Spencer and Ryan Ottley's Amazing Spider-Man looks like it's going to be great. Their Free Comic Book Day issue is a lot of fun, as is Jason Aaron's Avengers. Don't miss these new series. Also, Oni's Shadow Roads and Transformers Unicron.
Catching up on new comic announcements, such as the new creative team and cast for Astonishing X-Men and Joëlle Jones' Catwoman ongoing.
This week's Domino #1 is wonderful, fun, and a solid book about female friendships.
Planning a hypothetical signing on a holiday. Hypothetical.
The most adorable bat-symbol we've ever seen.

"Sometimes we need to remind people of the business aspects of this."

Mon, 09 Apr 2018 04:35:56 +0000

It's a busy week as we talk about the Diamond Retailer Summit, C2E2, a new BOOM! Studios retail initiative, two Richie Kotzen concerts, filming the "My Comic Shop Country" documentary and, of course, BaconFest Chicago. Strap in as this one is over 2 hours!

The First 10 Years of Challengers Comics + Conversation

Sun, 01 Apr 2018 23:59:51 +0000

We proudly announce our creator line-up for this year's Free Comic Book Day.
What comic-themed gift can you get for someone that works in a comics shop?
Protecting the privacy of our customers (from other customers).
Challengers has been in business for 10 years!
A brief history of how Challengers started and what it took to get the doors open for business.
Our main takeaways from 10 years.
Thank you for being part of our first decade!

Sometimes Comics Need to Slow Down

Mon, 26 Mar 2018 02:23:16 +0000

It's been a week. How have the new changes been received?
As a consumer, do you want to be immediately help in a store or left alone?
It's time for new Challengers business cards!
Coleen Doran gives a brief history of the direct market (via Twitter).
Meltdown (a 25-year-old comics shop in L.A.) is closing their store. We don't think it's due to sales.
May is going to be SO EXPENSIVE for shops AND fans. SO MANY COMICS!!
Some new Marvel comics have match-to levels up to 350% of previous issues in order to get a sales break.
Would we rather have free copies overshipped for a new title, or returnability of bought copies?
Gene Luen Yang talks about teaching with comics.

By the time you hear this, change will have occurred.

Mon, 19 Mar 2018 02:56:52 +0000

But, what? What is changing?
Fine, we'll tell you. We're making some pretty big layout changes, while not moving any of the furniture.
We're about to turn 10 (but please don't congratulate us until it happens)!
We get pretty detailed as to how these changes were made, all the math behind the scenes.
We voted early! We hope you're going to vote, too (if you live somewhere where voting will occur).
There are a few more new title announcements this week (yup, again), including a new round of DC/Hanna Barbera crossovers that look SO fun!
Why is the new Laura Kinney (All-New Wolverine) comic called X-23?!?
Patrick thought we'd briefly mention Toys-R-Us and then move on, but that turns into, like, 20 minutes on them.
2 new really good horror books this week, INFIDEL from Image (really moody and creepy and modern) and VAMPIRONICA from Archie (just fun, and gorgeous). Horror comics are the new black.

We'll pay you $4/month to NOT shop here.

Sun, 11 Mar 2018 22:26:38 +0000

No, not YOU; someone else. But we'd do it if we could.
Fridays, amirite??
We start off the episode with a quick reminder of how subscriptions work, because some people still don't get it.
You're not an @$$hole for asking questions.
The 2018 Sale shirts are in!
Why don't we order ALL our graphic novels from Diamond? Also, HOW we order our graphic novels from Diamond.
More observations about selling C2E2 tickets.
We think DC's Black Label imprint will live up to its name.
If Toys-R-Us stores all close, will we order toys differently?
So many great #1 issues came out this week!!

As predictable as the Academy Awards

Mon, 05 Mar 2018 06:51:07 +0000

Suddenly it feels like last week's episode was a 2-parter.
More new Marvel 'Fresh Start' title announcements.
Several DC announcements from Emerald City Comic Con, including 4 Neil Gaiman-adjacent books and 2 new non DCU Brian Michael Bendis books.
Why we do not relish selling C2E2 tickets in-store.
February sales numbers are in.
March event round-up.

May is going to be a killer month for comics!

Mon, 26 Feb 2018 05:12:36 +0000

We're not in Portland. Or ARE we?
It's the Comics PRO Annual Meeting this weekend. Any news?
Diamond Comics' new PreviewsWorld Pullbox has a lot of people talking. Is it just an updated version of ComiXology's old subscription service?
Speaking of Previews, DC Comics is leaving Diamond's Previews catalog and starting their own.
The Image Expo was also this week, so here's a quick rundown.
Marvel is promoting A Fresh Start for their publishing line, but is it really a fresh start?

Women's Comics Night

Sun, 18 Feb 2018 23:28:17 +0000

After years of thinking Challengers didn't need a women-specific comic-themed meet-up, Samantha Challenger proves us so very wrong.
The 'hows' and 'whys' of this type of event.
The short-term and long-term goals of the night.
Plans for the next meet-up.
And, Samantha lists her current favorite Manga graphic novels, pro wrestlers and current comic series, and we completely missed the boat by not having her mention her favorite drag queens!

We do great with all-ages comics, but what about the Young Adult market?

Sun, 11 Feb 2018 23:46:50 +0000

Patrick is worried about the snow affecting business during the yearly sale. Dal is not.
DC Comics has to new younger reader graphic novel imprints.
This episode has very little editing to show you what these conversations really sound like.
We think there are too many Infinity Countdown-related books in Marvel's immediate future.
DC wisely doesn't try to tie their current comics into their current movie properties.
So many movie and TV show trailers were released this week.
January sales were way down.
Announcing a Writing Workshop with Michael Moreci!
And an interview with Nakama Toys owner, Mary Warren!

DC Comics has just planned your summer.

Mon, 05 Feb 2018 05:48:23 +0000

Feeling ownership of the city you live and work in, and putting money back into that very community.
Thanks, Patreon patrons!
Dal wants us to do Patreon-exclusive episode.
Big changes at Valiant this week.
Some really big DC news out this week: DC Nation #0 and the new Action Comics and Superman plans.
More weekly series are going to make ordering that much more challenging.
The New Age of DC Heroes comics that are centered around the artists, all seem to be losing their artists.
There is yet another Superman-less Superman TV show on the way.
SO many February events!

Picking up the crumbs, with fellow retailer Brian Hibbs.

Mon, 29 Jan 2018 05:32:27 +0000

Misconfigured microphone settings can't keep us from talking to one of our favorite comics retailers, BRIAN HIBBS of Comix Experience in San Francisco!
Brian's been in the comics industry longer than we have, and his insight is invaluable.
Looking at the state of the industry vs. the quality of today's product.
Comix Experience has an amazing graphic novel club.
You will not believe what Brian's favorite comic book is… let's just say Dal was ecstatic.

What did we get in the mail? It rhymes with "cocaine."

Mon, 22 Jan 2018 00:38:27 +0000

You will not believe what came in Saturday's mail.
The 1990's X-Men cartoon is responsible for getting so many people interested in comic books.
Marvel putting out 4 new Wolverine-adjacent mini-series strikes us as a bad idea.
DC's Action Comics #1000 strikes us a s a good idea.
Dan Slott is leaving Spider-Man for Iron Man, and Marvel signed Kelly Thompson to an exclusive contract. We like both of those ideas.
Dal really wants a Jane Foster Thunderstrike book.
Women's Comics Night, Challengers Movie Night and Challengers Book Party are all on the schedule for February!

Mounting inconveniences and humiliations.

Mon, 15 Jan 2018 03:33:48 +0000

Well, we finally heard back from our landlord…
We talk about what that means for the future and potential changes.
The pros and cons of genre racking graphic novels.
How we read or single issue comics.
We're not excited for the New Age of DC Heroes.
We may be stocking *gasp* open order variant covers.
Happy Birthday, Lucy Knisley!
More community-oriented events are coming to Challengers.

This is not what we want to be known for.

Mon, 08 Jan 2018 06:20:21 +0000

Welcome new listeners! Are you ready for a serious look at 2017's sales?
We were down 6.8% from 2016 and we discuss the numbers, trends and percentages.
We're down over $21,000.00 in single-issue Marvel Comics sales.
This became an international news story and got a lot of people talking. Too many, you might say.
94 Subscribers did NOT come in for their comics in December.
We bought product from 113 different vendors/manufacturers/creators/distributors in 2017.
We're planning a lot more events outside of signings in 2018.

We are optimistic for 2018, I promise.

Mon, 01 Jan 2018 04:14:23 +0000

Those 6 days of Christmas sales were nice. Not as good as 2016, but still nice.
We got some real nice 5-star reviews recently, and a head-scratching 1-star.
Getting people to leave their homes for entertainment is hard to do.
How do we get comic reviews to be as sales-boosting as game reviews?
Patrick writes a comics commercial on the spot.
Women's Comics Month 2018 is shaping up to be great with 14 participants already scheduled.
We have a great guest coming in for Free Comic Book Day in May, but we won't tell you who just yet.
Making sure subscribers don't miss crossovers.
It's been over 4 weeks since we put Holiday cards in subscribers' files. The number that have not been picked up seems to be high.
What are we excited for in 2018?
You should check out BOOM! Studios' JUDAS #1.

MARX: A Tale of Neglect

Thu, 28 Dec 2017 06:45:54 +0000

This special mid-week bonus episode is an interview recorded in Challengers with Onrie Kompan and Dan Dougherty, creators of the new real life historical graphic novel MARX: A Tale of Neglect.
It was recorded just before Christmas, so forgive a few Holiday well-wishes that are merely a week old.
This graphic novel is the story of what Onrie's grandfather went thru during World War II.
Find out how it came about, how Dan got involved and what the whole book means to them both.
And we talk about their other work in comics.

It finally feels like Christmas (in our cash register).

Sun, 24 Dec 2017 22:20:09 +0000

Christmas finally has a positive effect on sales, and it's fun to go to work when people want to buy comics!
There is a brand new reason we're excited to stay in our current location (if we can).
Marvel is stealth-cancelling a bunch of titles.
Some Marvel Legacy titles we really like.
Is Dan Slott leaving Amazing Spider-Man? Who can replace him?
"Surviving Creativity" is a great podcast.
We sure wish we could sell statues and more comic-themed merchandise.
Customer requests at the Holidays.

Happy Holidays to all the Russian bot-farms that "listen" to us.

Sun, 17 Dec 2017 23:48:15 +0000

Dal immediately starts talking about Star Wars The Last Jedi (which he hadn't even seen at the time of this recording—but don't worry; he's seen it plenty since then).
The pros and cons of Disney acquiring Fox. And, of course, Net Neutrality.
A follow-up to last episode's Patreon discussion. What a difference a week makes.
A rundown of 2018's gold tier Free Comic Book Day comics. They look good.

The Challengers Holiday Graphic Novel Gift Guide.

Mon, 11 Dec 2017 06:23:22 +0000

Patreon has changed the way fees are paid, and no one likes it.
Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanzaa/Solstice/Festivus Gift Ideas for the comic fans on your list!
Yes, we talk about buying Taylor Swift concert tickets.
"Marvel Rising: Secret Warriors" looks wonderful and we're excited for it.

If you build it, they may not come.

Mon, 04 Dec 2017 03:01:47 +0000

Occasionally we get asked for advice on opening a comic store.
This episode is our real-world advice to someone asking us questions about opening their own store.
Lessons we've learned; lessons we haven't learned; lessons we're still learning.
We may joke about our 'success' but you can't be in business for almost 10 years by not knowing what you're doing.

This is culture, and culture is us.

Tue, 28 Nov 2017 05:03:41 +0000

Three events in five days! We run 'em all down.
Doomsday Clock #1 11:57pm Release Event.
Black Friday 50% OFF Comics (Comics; NOT graphic novels)
Santa's Husband Signing.
The diversity of these three events give us plenty to talk about, for sure.
Oh, and don't worry; we do find time to talk about the Wolverine.

The "CB" in his name stands for "Comic Books," of course.

Sun, 19 Nov 2017 23:06:57 +0000

Holiday decorations come early, for a specific reason.
WGN News stopped by to film a segment (or 5) on Local Comic Shop Day at Challengers.
Don Cardenas talks about his Packs of the Lowcountry Kickstarter.
Axel Alonso is out as Marvel Comics Editor-In-Chief. CB Cebulski is in.
We're having a BIG Black Friday Sale!

One publisher's loss is possibly another publisher's loss.

Mon, 13 Nov 2017 01:01:00 +0000

It's the biggest comics news story of the year, and we make you wait over 30 minutes before we start talking about it.
First we talk about Funko's Initial Public Offering disaster.
New themed displays in-store, including Thor Ragnarok and the Justice League.
X-Men Red.
Looking at possible new locations, just in case we have to move.
DC Comics has signed Brian Michael Bends to an exclusive contract.
The timing of entertainment announcements, using Doctor Who and Superchunk announcements from this week as a guide post.
Men in comics are no better than men in Hollywood.

File down the serial number a little more.

Mon, 06 Nov 2017 02:21:09 +0000

At the time of recording, Patrick and Dal have seen Thor Ragnarok a combined 5 times.
This episode's title has no actual bearing to the episode, but it is mentioned, so it counts, but "A piece of water" is just as accurate.
Rian Hughes, our favorite logo designer, has a book of his logos coming out in April.
Should we care about eBay exclusive Marvel Comics variant covers?
More egregious nonsense that's only negative, x3.
We sidestep our own accountant to handle this year's incorporation paperwork.
Marvel Universe Live: Age of Heroes was SO FUN!
And we DO wind up talking about Thor Ragnarok, a little.

Buy the comic, then we'll talk about it. That's your conversation.

Mon, 30 Oct 2017 00:12:00 +0000

What Chicagoland comic shop has been open the longest?
Patrick really wants to read a history of Chicago comic book retail stores.
Halloween Comicfest just happened and we don't know if we promoted it correctly.
We received a graphic novel this week that had no data in Diamond's system, yet we had customers' orders for it. This is the story of getting Diamond to help us with it.
Some subscribers are really taking advantage of our subscription service.
It's perfectly fine if you don't know the pop culture references we use to pitch books.

We guess you only want MORE Batman comics.

Mon, 23 Oct 2017 00:37:20 +0000

Marvel's movie-based collections don't really work for us.
That leads into talk about Thor: Ragnarok.
The sharp drop-off of mini-series sales numbers.
The saga of one man looking for the first issue of Aftershock's Fu-Jitsu #1.
$6,000.00 of dental work vs. one extra comic book.
We're now Facebook verified!
Sean Dove has been added to our Halloween Comicfest event!
The difficulties of explaining Dark Nights Metal to people 3 months into the event's run.
The New Age of DC Heroes vs. Challengers subscription pre-orders.

Yes, it IS all Marvel's fault.

Sun, 15 Oct 2017 21:15:09 +0000

Patrick fixed an issue with the receiver (so you can hear the new FOZZY CD "Judas" on ALL 6 store speakers!!).
Dal won't watch "Mei and the Kitten Bus."
Comixology is ditching their Pull List functionality (more than a year after we already ditched it).
We're featured in the new book "Comic Shop: The Retail Mavericks Who Gave Us a New Geek Culture."
Subscriber copies vs. shelf copies on any given week.
Patrick is interested in getting into the Revoltech line of Marvel figures.
Halloween Comicfest is a-comin'!
We held a surprise Friday the 13th 13% Off sale!
Marty DeRosa helped us out with something we really need for an upcoming event.
We go over category percentages between Jan-Sep 2016 vs 2017.

A perfect snapshot of today's comics and today's comics retail.

Sun, 08 Oct 2017 22:31:11 +0000

How far is too far from the blue line?
Some comic retailers still cannot handle diversity in comics.
The first 6 pages of Doomsday Clock are online and Dal likes it more than expected.
A whole bunch of news from the New York Comic Con. A whole bunch.

Policing comics thru the lens of the greater good.

Mon, 02 Oct 2017 04:13:58 +0000

Should we change our store hours?
How a 1981 episode of WKRP in Cincinnati resonates with today's comics industry.
Why we don't sell vintage books.
Hugh Hefner vs. Dr. Seuss
Measuring yesterday's comics thru the lens of today.
Marvel Legacy is finally here!
Patrick went to the eye doctor.
Upcoming Marvel Avengers and Venom crossovers.
A letter from a fellow retailer.
Why did we recently buy a used toilet bowl for Challengers?
And a post-outro National Comic Book Day anecdote from Dal.

Octopus Prom Dress

Sun, 24 Sep 2017 22:57:44 +0000

Who would win in a fight, Captain America or Spider-Man?
We've read some more Legacy issues. Dal is upping our numbers.
Man do we hate those PDF watermarks.
Our inability to push new Image titles is disappointing.
Why did anyone ever think the Internet was a good idea?
Harley Quinn Day preview! Rick and Morty Art Show recap.
When permission becomes secondary to want. Or, Our Rick and Morty Art Show vs. Emporium's Upside-Down bar.
Patrick gets lost in a BBC Radio 1 anecdote (but gets back to it at the very, very end).

"The only person responsible for the blackness smothering your soul-- is you."

Mon, 18 Sep 2017 04:28:12 +0000

We got another Secret Shopper report, and some new Google reviews.
A brief football interlude as we check in on the Bears and the Chargers (sorry).
Dal hosted our first Challengers Game Night! How did it go?
Patrick got a lovely Challengers coaster in the mail.
Looking ahead to the 'new' Marvel Legacy titles, as we've read a few of them so far.
Fox News has a problem with Superman saving people from an automatic weapon-wielding killer.
Dal liked Eugenic #1 (upcoming from BOOM!) a lot!! And Sean Gordon Murphy's Batman: The White Knight.
Dal is behind on the current X-Romances.
Events! We always have events!

Today's Comics Market is hard enough to manage without hurricanes.

Mon, 11 Sep 2017 02:30:36 +0000

No Dal this week, so Patrick goes it alone.
After 27 years in comic retailing, Patrick has made ALL his friends thru comics.
All Star Comics in Melbourne, Australia is a swell show run by swell folks.
Walking Dead #171 has a variant variant cover.
Marvel Super Hero Adventures seems like a step backwards.
Hurricanes are not good for the sustainability of the comics retail community.
Comic Shops are not Sex Shops.
Thank You notes for new customers.

August 2017 sales may be up the tiniest bit, but, up is up.

Mon, 04 Sep 2017 00:08:02 +0000

It's a Secret Empire post mortem, and then a look-ahead to Marvel Legacy.
Dal wants to start hosting gaming nights. First up, Marvel Munchkin!
Kirby Centennial and John Siuntres event recaps, and a brief look at all of September's events. There are a lot.
Patrick (and Jon Drawdoer, Tim Seeley and Ryan Browne) talked to the mentors of Chicago HOPES for Kids to help them understand how to use comics in their mentoring of underprivileged kids.
SPINNING is out now! Perfect for those just growing out of Raina's books.
August 2017 sales are up the tiniest bit over August 2016.
Over 10 minutes of *bonus* Moviepass conversation.

"I'll do anything at all EVER for Challengers. No questions asked, end of statement"

Mon, 28 Aug 2017 02:06:17 +0000

This episode is so much fun! Patrick is joined by Toonhound Stuidos' Cory Casoni and Scott "PvP" Kurtz to talk about TABLE TITANS, their wonderful podcast SURVIVING CREATIVITY (Patrick's favorite podcast), the KickStarter for BINWHIN'S MINIONS, and so much more!
This episode is the reason Challengers is now branching out into gaming.

Iron Fist is whack.

Mon, 21 Aug 2017 19:34:51 +0000

Quick recap of our Return Policy (we do not accept returns).
Dal's not having a good week with super-hero comics, even though our Metal Midnight Release was fun.
Patrick is tired of doing things that benefit other people/business but not Challengers.
So many events are happening!
Non-spoilery talk about The Defenders on Netflix.
Speaking of Nextflix, they bought Millarworld and we talk about it.
We want to be an Amazon portal. You know, if you can't beat 'em…
We're dipping our toes into gaming (more on that next week).
Wizard Magazine is back??
The new Runaways comic is really fun!

Connecting more dots than there are dots.

Thu, 17 Aug 2017 01:30:26 +0000

Patrick, Kent and Cristina continue their Crisis on Infinite Earths discussion in the final of our Crisis episodes.
Tim Drake means a lot to Cristina, as does Dick Grayson.
What drew Cristina to Challengers in the first place?
The hidden humor of Crisis.
We wonder what Batman history is still canon? No Man's Land? Cataclysm? Azbats?
The DC Archives vs. the Disney Archives.

"I'm just worthless compared to Supergirl!"

Mon, 14 Aug 2017 03:30:12 +0000

What starts as a discussion about the long-term repercussions of DC's seminal work of universe-condensing, Crisis on Infinite Earths, quickly digresses into myriad other classic comic tomes, and even some theories about the brand new, and excellent, Mister Miracle!
Dedicated (and immensely knowledgeable) DC reader Cristina McCrystal joins Patrick and Kent in a special 2-part episode!
There's a reason Cristina has an encyclopedic knowledge of DC characters.
Was Supergirl the best among us?

Why do people still live in Gotham City?

Mon, 07 Aug 2017 00:38:45 +0000

Welcome to another episode of "Patrick's Ax to Grind."
Dal filmed for Pointy (don't worry; we explain what Pointy is).
Patrick had another rough Friday thanks to Google inventory-checkers.
Our new New Release TV is up (thanks, Jack!)
Weird phone calls, comic shop Google reviews and a cute kid story.
The huge signing that wasn't to be.
We're doing a Midnight Release for DC's Dark Nights Metal #1.
You should maybe take a look at Elsewhere (Image) and Mech Cadet Yu (BOOM!). Yes, we talk about both of those again.
Dal is digging Arkham Knight.

Where is the comic wonderment of our youth?

Mon, 31 Jul 2017 04:07:56 +0000

Challengers' lease is up next year and we don't know if we'll be able to stay where we are.
Donovan took a really annoying phone call today.
Will 25% of shopping malls close in the next 5 years?
Patrick wants Challengers to be an experience of wonder and excitement, and he doesn't think it is.
Kent gave us a 42" monitor that you'll all be viewing soon.
Dal tells a riveting story about Headmaster Arcee figures.
We've just opened an Etsy store, which feels weird because we have a store store and we sell things online via our website, but, you know, if it works…
We (still) LOVE The Damned. And Kaijumax!
We really hope people come out and buy art at our Jack Kirby's 100th Birthday Charity Celebration.
You should take a look at Mech Cadet Yu #1 this week, and Hi-Fi Fight Club #1 in a few weeks. And Angelic #1 after that.

"I literally do not live in a world without comics."

Mon, 24 Jul 2017 00:01:27 +0000

It's an interview with former comics retailer and current Direct Market Representative at BOOM! Studios, MORGAN PERRY!
Comic book retailers are industry professionals.
Getting into comics via Star Wars and sci-fi fandom.
Eating, sleeping, and breathing comics.
Morgan's path in comics is really similar to Patrick's own path.
There's plenty more, but why read about it when you can listen!

Those who do not learn comics history...

Mon, 17 Jul 2017 01:07:57 +0000

Our state-of-the-fictional-arts recording studio is back online!
An interview with (Dal pretending to be) RYAN BROWNE about the Curse Words Van Tour!
REDLANDS from Image is a reeeeaaaallllyyy good book, and you should think about checking it out. Also, MOONSTRUCK. And a few others.
Take a Detour withDetour.com/Challengers!
There are storm clouds forming over the comics industry and they're called Marvel Legacy. Boy, oh boy, this is a topic, for sure. And we dig in.
Across the industry, June 2017 comic sales are down 21% from June 2016.
Have faith.

The Narrative of Comics, without Patrick or Dal.

Sun, 09 Jul 2017 23:11:36 +0000

This one is pretty unique! It's a panel discussion on narrative and process with 4 very talented Chicago-based creators.
Coco Picard ("The Chronicles of Fortune")
Jessica Campbell ("Hot or Not")
Anya Davidson ("Band for Life")
Marnie Galloway ("In the Sounds and Seas")
Moderated by Neil Brideau (Radiator Comics)
We wanted to do something to celebrate the release of "The Chronicles of Fortune" and this is what Coco decided upon. This took place in Challengers (Sidekicks, actually) and Patrick was there for it, he's just not part of this recording. Nor is Dal. See? Unique.

We are from France! Our weekend as the French Comics Association.

Mon, 03 Jul 2017 01:18:25 +0000

Bonjour! Parlez-vous français?
Why didn't we call this CONTENT of Challengers??
This week we go international without leaving Chicago.
We spent last weekend running the French Comics Association booth at the American Library Association 2017 Annual Conference at McCormick Place.
This is the who, why and how of that conference.
We got to interact with several wonderful international comics creators; Guy Delisle, Marguerite Abouet, Pénélope Bagieu, Jérémie Royer, and David Etien, as well as the FCA staff themselves.
Yes, there were croissants (pronounced "kuhWAH-sawnts").

LIVE with Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt (and CM Punk).

Sun, 25 Jun 2017 21:30:30 +0000

"To Hell and Back: A Spotlight on THE DAMNED and THE SIXTH GUN" panel at C2E2 2017.
The audio has been found!
Learn the history of one of comic's most creative partnerships!
Cullen kills his favorite characters.
Brian hates drawing Drake and Becky.
CM Punk refuses to read the last Sixth Gun trade.
Thanks to C2E2 for getting us this audio and to Oni Press for setting it all up in the first place.

You don't have to know EVERYTHING about Star Wars to be a Star Wars fan.

Mon, 19 Jun 2017 04:28:07 +0000

Wonder Woman Day! Darth Vader Day! We've sure had a lot of "Days" recently. But how'd they turn out?
We start with a story about a smug Star Wars figure collector.
This was recorded during the Puerto Rican Pride Parade, and you may be able to tell from the background noise. But probably not.
Dal and Patrick will be out of the store for a few days this week for the American Library Association Annual Conference at McCormick Place. Challengers is running the French Comics Association booth.
Gregg Schigiel will be here this Thursday!
Coco Picard, Anya Davidson, Marnie Galloway, Jessica Campbell and Neil Brideau will all be in-store for a discussion on the narrative of comics, Friday, July 30th. Accommodating 5 creators and a live audience is a logistical challenge for us.
We could not tell you that Darth Vader would be at our event live, in person, and here's the reasons why. Thanks a lot, Lucas!
What is Marvel Legacy?
Bonus! Donovan Challenger has something to say about people complaining about the Chicago Bag Tax.

What if Spider-Man was a Disney princess?

Sun, 11 Jun 2017 23:58:43 +0000

Patrick welcomes "PIX" creator Gregg Schigiel to the show.
Gregg loves Power Pack, so Dal will certainly like this episode!
Gregg was an assistant editor at Marvel Comics in the late 1990's and drew several issues of WHAT IF…?
Gregg will be at Challengers on Thursday, June 22 from 3pm to 7pm.
Librarians are the real front line for getting kids into comics.

Losing the PRIVILEGE to BUY a t-shirt does not give you the RIGHT to STEAL.

Mon, 05 Jun 2017 00:39:41 +0000

May's sales numbers are not encouraging.
We don't look to back issues to recoup costs. We survived the Rick and Morty "Don't Trip Road Trip" tour event. Here's a long recap filled with plenty of anecdotes. 90% of the people in attendance were awesome.
Wubba-lubba-dub-dub!

Comic book "Events" are like wrestling Pay-Per-Views

Mon, 29 May 2017 03:03:24 +0000

When DC's Injustice video game came out 4+ years ago we spent an entire episode playing it. What will we do now that Injustice 2 is out?
We can't talk about the things we really want to talk about.
There was an article in The Atlantic about Marvel not know how to run their business. Didja read it? We did.
Speaking of Marvel, they just fired their only gay minority editor.
The drop-off of readers on new titles from issue #1 to issue #4 is staggering.
May's sales are either excellent or terrible; no in-between.
Dal bought Patrick a Becky Lynch WWE Elite figure.
Dal compares his wrestling-viewing to people who don't read monthly super-hero comics, and it makes a lot of sense.
We now carry Marty and Sarah Love Wrestling enamel pins!
There will also be more Challengers-designed enamel pins. Shout out to Lapel Yeah!
This Rick and Morty event gets bigger as it gets closer. We're expecting 2,000 to show up. Two thousand.

"I don't have time to read all this crap."

Sun, 21 May 2017 21:43:01 +0000

This week it's an episode of Contest of Challenger. Singular.
No, Patrick will not help you find where the letter "T" is in the back issue boxes. You should be able to do that on your own.
We've got some sweet new swag: Comics Fists pins and Coexist bumper stickers. Both designed by Patrick and made just for you!
Tom Hardy was Bane; now he's Venom.
Marvel announces MORE Star Wars comics, and a sweet Chip Zdarsky variant for Peter Parker #1 that we won't be able to get.
Jason Wood from 11 O'Clock Comics interviewed Patrick! Good questions and mediocre answers. Dal had great answers for his ComicBook.com interview.
You can totally tell exactly where Patrick had to start being quiet during this recording.

"I hear a bunch of screaming demons. Is that just me?"

Mon, 15 May 2017 02:00:02 +0000

This episode is told in reverse. We start with Patreon subscribers and an event listing, and then go into comic reviews (kinda) and then industry news and end on store news. It wasn't planned that way that that is literally the reverse of our usual structure.
We are NOT prepared for the amount of people that say they're coming to our Rick and Morty event.
The Tom King/Mitch Gerads just-announced Mister Miracle looks SO! GOOD!
Network Upfronts = Lots of comic book-based TV news. And movie news.
Dal has an interesting theory about the new Black Lightning TV series.
Image is releasing a series of Pride covers in June.
Kids graphic novel sales are up! Non-kids graphic novels are down. Is the New York Times Best Seller list to blame?
We totally rearranged our shelves! Is it working?

"This is horrible; you guys are the worst." And other Free Comic Book Day tales.

Mon, 08 May 2017 01:25:19 +0000

Wubba lubba dub dub! The Rick and Morty #Rickmobile will be stopping at Challengers on June 1st!
It's the Free Comic Book Day 2017 after-show!
The day sure started slow…
We had Matt Kindt! And Alex Rosado and Dan Dougherty. And 5 wonderful cosplayers.
Dal had a sketch request for himself and Patrick did his best to derail it. Hilarity ensued.
We're read Secret Empire up thru #3. We really like it. Trust us. We're not Hydra. Which is totally not something Hydra would say.

"I don't believe I was identified as a Secret Shopper." Incorrect.

Sun, 30 Apr 2017 21:50:26 +0000

Dal was planning to carry the new comic by recording artist Lights. Patrick chose Gwar. That leads into other band comics, like Slayer, My Chemical Romance, and more.
We received a new Secret Shopper Report and we go over it in detail!
Subscribers! Please don't put books you no longer want back on the shelf without asking us to remove that title from your list!
We had lunch with author Scott Westerfeld and we both like his new YA graphic Novel "Spill Zone."
How do we capture the excitement of C2E2 in store?
You are not a bad person for wanting to read Secret Empire. You are not anti-Semitic for wanting to read Secret Empire.
Bonus! Highlights from the NFL Draft (kind of).

Your back issue bins are littered with new ideas.

Mon, 24 Apr 2017 03:58:17 +0000

This episode's title is a quote from DC's Dan DiDio. It's a good quote, but we never actually mention it in the episode. I mean, you'll figure out where it fits in.
It was C2E2 weekend here in Chicago! It was also the Diamond Comic Distributors Retailer Summit. Both of those things add up to a lot of meetings/panels/seminars for Patrick and Dal.
We also held a pretty sweet party for Oni Press, Brian Hurtt and Cullen Bunn. It was probably our best party ever.
We ran into and/or met a ton of comic creators this weekend, so please pardon our name dropping.
Patrick hosted a C2E2 panel starring Cullen and Brian and had a special guest co-moderator for most of it.
Chris Burnham didn't recognize Patrick and it led to a really awkward encounter (for him).
We also talk about all the things we bought at the show (including a box of Booty-O's to make sure we ain't booty!!)

We'll be Damned if we do one more event with creators Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt.

Mon, 17 Apr 2017 00:11:00 +0000

Star Wars Celebration is a thing, that we're not at, yet we still talk about.
X-Men Gold #1 fallout.
Is Apple going to buy Disney?
It's a BIG week for Challengers, because of C2E2. Here's our plans.
We love Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt, so we talk all about them.
We have some ridiculous, van-themed events on the schedule, but we need help from our Alderman to make these work.
More in-store events, taking us thru the summer.

It's not diversity; it's reality.

Mon, 10 Apr 2017 01:12:51 +0000

Eric Stephenson says nice things about Challengers. So does Gregg "Pix" Schigiel.
Small things we do can have a big impact on people, good and bad.
We talk about how we navigate bookstores, because…
We visited the new Chicago Amazon bookstore. There's lots to talk about here.
And then… the topic of the week… Marvel Comics vs. Diversity. Hoo boy.
And just when we thought we were done for the week, there's late breaking news about hidden anti-Christian and Jewish messages in X-Men Gold #1!

You're So Sexy When You Aren't Transmitting STIs.

Thu, 06 Apr 2017 17:42:06 +0000

This is the final Women's Comics Month interview episode, featuring a full-length interview with Isabella Rotman. Her art is usually about the ocean, mermaids, crushing loneliness, people in the woods, or sex. She is author of the sexual health comic You're So Sexy When You Aren't Transmitting STIs, Not On My Watch: The Bystanders Handbook for the Prevention of Sexual Violence, Good to Know: A Zine of Useful Things, and many more.

Women's Comics Month, part 2.

Sun, 02 Apr 2017 22:31:28 +0000

This episode is the last in a series of mini-interviews with the creators that set up for Women's Comics Month 2017 at Challengers.
Featuring:
Kat Leyh
Amy Peltz
Sheika Lugtu
Stephanie Mided
Sage Coffey
Vixtopher
Yewon Kwon & Bec Hac
Cathy Hannah
Corinne Halbert
Delia Jean
Coco Picard

A major change to how we shelve new comics.

Mon, 27 Mar 2017 02:10:59 +0000

New reusable tote bags. Large poster re-stock. Pop vinyl re-stock. Large all-ages graphic novel re-stock. Sale t-shirts are in. A whole bunch of new local comics and zines (thanks to Women's Comics Month). We're trying to put every penny back into the sore.
The Challengiraffe prototype has been made by DoomCo Designs. We'll actually have these fun 3D-printed statues available by Free Comic Book Day!
Marvel's "Generations" and Secret Empire #0.
Dal has a BIG idea for changing how we rack single issue comic books. It's different than we've ever done. Can we do it?
Event recap!

The balance between wanting to read and wanting to own.

Thu, 23 Mar 2017 02:18:08 +0000

It's a special mid-week bonus episode as Patrick interviews artist Ashley Riot.
What started as a Women's Comics Month interview turned into a full episode!
Ashley tells about growing up as the only anime/manga fan she knew and what it's like to find other people and places of similar interests.
Already a convention pro, Ashley delights in seeing young girls reading comics and loves giving drawing advice to kids and anyone with the desire to draw.
Ashley's original work includes an upcoming book called Psyche.
Lots of talk of Sailor Moon, Ghost in the Shell, Doctor Who, The IT Crowd, and our deep, deep mutual love of Richard Ayoade.

Women's Comics Month, part 1.

Mon, 20 Mar 2017 01:16:40 +0000

This episode is a series of mini-interviews with the creators that set up for the first half of Women's Comics Month 2017 at Challengers.
Chloë Perkis
Bianca Xunise
Lauren Burke & Monica Ras
Amber Huff
Rosie Accola
Sara Kloskowski
Marie Enger
Andrea Bell
Rebecca Rothschild

Adding coal to a fire does not douse the fire.

Mon, 13 Mar 2017 05:24:28 +0000

NOT RECORDED IN A MOVING VEHICLE! You're welcome.
There's a bunch of Marvel things to talk about: Legacy numbering, movie/TV advertising and geo-targeted character interaction, yet another new X-Men team book. We like SOME of this.
We are 1 week into Women's Comics Month. How is it going?
1st quarter 2017 sales are down 10% thus far.
The number of brand new titles coming out in May is staggering.
Will Patrick be on a Diamond Retailer Summit panel?
We had a C2E2 scavenger hunt at the store.
Having an actual, mailing address mailing list; not emails.
Our business neighbor is now a Cards for Cash store.
Read Grass Roots #1 (and Gwenpool, for Dal).

The global culture gateway.

Mon, 06 Mar 2017 04:44:29 +0000

This is mercifully the last of our recorded-in-the-car episodes, on the way home from Memphis, Tennessee.
Friday and Saturday of the conference in one episode.
Valiant suite party.
Workshop recap.
The Keynote address!
Stocking more Young Adult books.
32 roundtable discussions.
Dinner with :01 First Second. (also, the name Patrick forgot was Miranda)
Comic Book Legal Defense Fund Auction.
Diamond warehouse tour in Olive Branch, Mississippi.

A better way to impart information.

Sun, 26 Feb 2017 16:27:33 +0000

This is the second of out recorded-in-the-car episodes, on the way home from Memphis, Tennessee.
It's noisy and raining and you don't have to hear us get lost this time. I mean, we DID, you just don't hear it.
It's a full Thursday rundown of the conference.
Marvel talks! How was their year?
DC takes the rest of the day! Comics, trades, marketing and collectibles.
Patrick only slept a tiny bit during the presentations.
Lunch workshops. Patrick hosted one about store signings and Dal sat in on one about product diversification in stores.
Dinner at King Jerry Lawler's Hall of Fame Grille.
Plus! A special guest appearance from 2 other Chicago podcasters (thanks to the MLW Radio Network)!

A million miles from Memphis.

Mon, 20 Feb 2017 03:37:47 +0000

This is the first of three (3!!) recorded-in-the-car episodes, to and from Memphis, Tennessee.
On the way to the 2017 ComicsPRO Annual Meeting, listen as Patrick and Dal:
-Get lost on I-57!
-Talk about what they expect to be doing all weekend.
-Learn Bane is getting a his own 12-issue series.
-Realize Batwoman, Super Sons and The Wild Storm all debuted this week.
-Tell you our retail neighbor, Boost Mobile, is going away. So is Impossible Industries.
-Discuss that there is going to be a new Peter Parker the Spectacular Spider-Man series, in which Peter returns to NY and gets mustard on his dress shirt.
-And remind you our Revival Wake is this Wednesday!
Opening song: "Memphis" by Joe Jackson.

Surrendering the legacy of inclusion.

Sun, 12 Feb 2017 23:55:25 +0000

Can a geek-centric marketing firm reach the audiences we don't?
Cancelling FiveStars is harder than getting FiveStars in the first place.
Have you seen Legion? Dal has and likes it!
As we predicted many, many episodes ago, Marvel's next big "E" event is Captain America-centric and written by Nick Spencer.
Is Marvel abandoning legacy characters and going back to the status quo?
Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt are coming back to Challengers!
Daniel Warren Johnson is also coming back to Challengers!
Gene Ha wants to show you how special comic shops are.
Working harder for 25% off.

I love you but I've chosen comics.

Mon, 06 Feb 2017 06:11:09 +0000

It's SALE time! We only do one storewide sale per year and this is it!
We feel like our new title good will is running thin. Like, we can't get people to buy books just on our say so anymore.
What titles do we hope people buy during the sale?
Do you use lists in your everyday life?
Patrick is falling behind his regular comic reading.
Wednesday was Image Comics Day! 25 years of Image Comics! What did we do for it? (hint: nothing)
Dal talks himself into bringing back our lapsed book club, Chattingers.
We want a Brand Manager.

Comics are a MEDIUM; not a genre, New York Times!

Mon, 30 Jan 2017 04:46:49 +0000

It's the 300th episode of Contest of Challengers!
And we celebrate with… a regular episode. You're welcome.
When is a collection complete?
The New York Times is dropping their regular list of Best Selling Graphic Novels and we are NOT happy about it.
A major international comics creator is interested in coming to Challengers. Who is it?
Greg Rucka has a new Image title on the way. What do we think about Old Guard?

Let He Who is Without Internet (Com)Cast the First Stone

Mon, 23 Jan 2017 02:39:53 +0000

We start with a weird and unresolved issue with 2 Saturday shoppers.
Our internet went out and Comcast had many ideas on the issue. Patrick disagreed.
Resist! We can't help but talk about all of the weekend's marches, but we keep trying to tie it to comics.
Believe it or not, talking about the Inauguration actually segues into how well we think Tom King is doing on Batman and specifically with Bane.
Event rundown!

Best-Sellers of 2016, by the numbers.

Mon, 16 Jan 2017 02:00:49 +0000

It's a numbers game this week as we run down the best-selling graphic novels and the best-selling single issue comics of 2016.
How many super heroes have parents that are still alive?
More upcoming Marvel titles are announced (of course there are, as it's a week in the year).
We dump on Spider-Man. Again.
Quick talk about Pulls Lists. Patrick wants a progressive discount.
You may not have heard of "Extremity" but when it comes out in March you're gonna love it!

Boost your Local Comic Shop vs. "Team Comics"

Mon, 09 Jan 2017 07:55:21 +0000

Everything is new! It's a New Year! We have a new website! The interior of the store has been rearranged! All new for you!
Here's a little explanation as to why we've changed stuff.
Ten 2017 comic industry predictions.
#boostyourLCS, with guest audio from Ross Richie
2016 total sales vs 2015 total sales.
Matt Kindt is coming back to Challengers!
Gene Ha is coming back to Challengers!
The brand new Unstoppable Wasp #1 is really fun and we both enjoyed USAvengers #1, too!

Happy New Year! Prince can't die again.

Mon, 02 Jan 2017 02:36:53 +0000

Recorded in the final days of 2016. Mac McCaughan from Superchunk sums it up so much better than we can.
Yes, we sold CD's at one time, so we can justify talking about music on a comics podcast.
Midwest Merch, our on-demand t-shirt provider, is going away. We'll miss them.
Love is Love is a great book doing great things for worthy people. So, of course comic retailers have a problem with it.
When asked by the creators to NOT sell Saga #41, what do YOU think retailers do??
Is Patrick a professional comics industry apologist?
Our website is getting a face lift.
Why do vacuum cleaners come to Challengers just to die?
The brand new Hulk #1 is really good, and a worthy successor to the Charles Soule She-Hulk run.

Rogue One.

Thu, 29 Dec 2016 04:36:38 +0000

SPOILER ALERT!
We talk all about the brand new Star Wars movie, Rogue One, and that includes major plot points, so consider yourself warned.
Lots of spoilers!
Dal loves all movies Star Wars!
Patrick is indifferent.
One of them fell asleep during the movie!
One of them has seen it twice in the first 24-hours of release and once or twice more by now.
Can you enjoy this movie without knowing what WE think of it? Probably, yes.

Boxing Day means UPS loses your boxes, right?

Sun, 25 Dec 2016 06:46:40 +0000

Happy Holidays from Challengers!
The Holiday buying season is in full swing!
How do YOU shop for gifts? In-store? Online? Outsource?
Gift-giving is way more Patrick's thing than Dal's.
Helping people find Christmas presents, especially when they're not familiar with comic shops, is kind of the best thing.
You should totally eat at the Haywood Tavern!!
The best way to ask if we have something in stock is to call the store, not to hit us up on social media.
Patrick figures out the % of subscribers that have yet to be in in December.
Patrick finds a thing on Walmart.com that is on sale for $19 when Challengers has it for sale at $75. What does he do?
It wouldn't be Christmas without a missing box of product! Thanks, UPS!
Have you seen Justice League Action?

Let's see a robot do this job! Wait, no.

Mon, 19 Dec 2016 05:26:38 +0000

Happy Holidays from Challengers!
We maybe start out by talking about Christmas music for a little too long…
And then we maybe talk about toys for kinda long, too.
2017 is starting off great for events at Challengers!
Ryan Browne and Ashley A. Woods, and Amber Benson and Sarah Kuhn, all in January.
Women's History Month = Women's Comics Month
We talk a lot about Marvel's October 2017 title sales vs. Challengers sales of those same titles.
Lastly, slow sales are being felt all across the industry. Some suggest diversification, but what diversification do they mean?

Down from steak money to beer money.

Mon, 12 Dec 2016 02:19:16 +0000

Sandwich indignity!
Buncha movie trailers have just been released and they mostly look good!
It's hard out there for a pimp comics retailer. Retailers around the country are vocalizing their current difficulties.
What do comic readers and fans OWE comic retailers? What do the creators and publishers owe retailers?
What got the comics industry out of the slump 20 years ago?
We've got something planned for March, to coincide with Women's History Month.
Curse Words #2 is even better than Curse Words #1! Is Curse Words on your radar?
We end with a brand new Holiday song!

It's not a Challengers thing; it's a comics industry thing

Mon, 05 Dec 2016 02:50:13 +0000

We have our first ever Holiday sale next week.
Sales are trending down across the industry because readers are no longer engaged.
Event recapping: Local Comic Shop Day and Art Baltazar. Were YOU there?
What could make Local Comic Shop Day a success?
How would we engage people without the internet?
Rounding up for charity, and why we won't do it.
All the new X-Men titles and creative teams from Marvel.
Wicker Park has a new hotel and hopefully we can use it!
250 prints in 10 separate boxes.

At Last! The Alli Alleman Interview.

Thu, 24 Nov 2016 05:53:59 +0000

Uploaded early for your long Thanksgiving commute!
A long and noisy interview with fellow comics retailer Alli Alleman of Collector's Paradise in LA. Well, that's where she works NOW.
See! the comics industry thru younger eyes.
Experience! comics retail from a woman's perspective.
Marvel! at her Rick Remender story from San Diego this past summer.
Learn how similar experiences are for most people that spend their days behind a comic shop counter.

3 things we do right/3 things we did wrong.

Mon, 21 Nov 2016 04:11:13 +0000

It's Dal's birthday, but he has a gift for YOU. Maybe.
Tech apologies for episode #287 and a preface to episode #290. That's not too confusing, right?
3x3: Three things we've done wrong and three things we've done right. Well, right-ish…
We set up at Pritzker School's reading night and had fun. Kids sure do love business cards.
"Graphic Novel" vs. "Comic Book" Do you really care what they're called?
Spider-Man #9 is not the comic we were expecting, sadly.
Turns out we are not your favorite shop in Bucktown. A mobile vintage store van is…?

By the Hoary Hosts of Hoggoth! We review Doctor Strange.

Thu, 17 Nov 2016 03:50:37 +0000

By the Hoary Hosts of Hoggoth!
By the Omnipotent Oshtur!
By Agamotto's All-Seeing Eye!
We saw Doctor Strange on opening night, and we talk all about it!
Lots and lots of SPOILERS!

Disappointed in America? Let's talk to Australia!

Mon, 14 Nov 2016 04:13:46 +0000

17 hours in the future! Our first-ever Australian interview!
An interview with Mitchell Davies from All Star Comics in Melbourne.
All-Star is also an Eisner-winning shop and their ideas on retail mirror that of Challengers, from 9,674 miles away.
This interview was fraught with technical difficulties, but Mitch is a wonderful guy to talk to and this episode came out great, despite the recording issues.
Ever wondered how different comics retail is in other countries? Well then this episode is for you!!

Challengers Red vs. Cubby Blue

Mon, 07 Nov 2016 01:20:41 +0000

Does the Cubs winning the World Series make people more or less likely to buy comics right now?
Patrick is the REAL hero of the World Series.
Our Civic Duty Discount is back!
Street construction blows.
Choosing to turn a negative customer interaction into a positive one.
We now have people check their bags, but we hate doing it.
A personal message from the Rough Riders for Challengers!
Red Sonja #0 is 25¢ and Diamond thinks we need to order 87 copies.
A brief talk of original comic art.

Ask me about my feminist Avenger

Mon, 31 Oct 2016 05:04:55 +0000

Oh, Marvel. Oh, oh, Marvel. We have some serious issues to discuss.
Cover price. Page count. Unwanted back-up stories.
Seriously, 80% of this episode is problems we have with the current Marvel product.
#StandWithChelseaCain
Curse Words looks great! And other new books for January 2017.

Even more Terry Gant (Part 2)

Thu, 27 Oct 2016 02:49:40 +0000

As it seems that Patrick and Terry are almost the same person, this half of the interview is more about pro wrestling and heavy metal than it is about comics, but it always comes back around to comics. Just like life!
When these two get together over a bottle of Jameson (yes, there was Jameson), you never know what's going to come out.

On location in Rogers Park with Terry Gant (Part 1)

Mon, 24 Oct 2016 02:24:57 +0000

It's the first time CoC was recorded in someone else's comic shop!

Terry is the owner of Third Coast Comics in Rogers Park.

How did he get into comics?

How did he get into retail?

All the influences that make him the man and comic book retailer he is today.

Damaged product replacing previously damaged product.

Mon, 17 Oct 2016 02:46:16 +0000

We're up for a Time Out Love Chicago Award for best Bucktown shop! Just where is Bucktown, anyway?
Do comic books count as "media" for media mail? Hint: They do not. So just how do we mail comics?
We hate Marvel Comics' paper stock for their covers.
Lots of damages lately from Diamond Comics, our distributor.
Do we stock the freshest comics?
Dal really wants biscuits. Or pancakes. He's not greedy; he'll take either.
Millarworld is Reborn! Haha! That's a comic pun.
Hollywood celebrities that have written comics.
Marvel's next Star Wars ongoing stars a completely original character.

Losing time isn't a problem; losing money is

Mon, 10 Oct 2016 03:33:58 +0000

After weeks apart, Dal returns to Contest of Challengers and it's like no time has passed at all.
New York Comic Con is happening as this episode is recorded, so we talk about new announcements such as Batwoman, Justice League America and Supersons, Neil Gaiman's American Gods, Warren Ellis and a TMNT/WWE crossover. Yes, that's right. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles action figures dressed as WWE wrestlers.
We also talk about…
A new Ex Libris Challengers bookplate.
Dal got a Vision t-shirt.
Cave Carson and the feel of DC's Young Animal line.

Jill Thompson on Contest of Challengers

Mon, 03 Oct 2016 05:42:58 +0000

It's an interview with Jill Thompson!
The triple-threat of pop culture; comics, wrestling, and _________?
Her brand new graphic novel "Wonder Woman The True Amazon" is out now and she'll be signing it at Challengers on Saturday, October 15th.
We talk about how she got into comics as a fan, her love of wrestling, Peanuts, Archie comics and all about Wonder Woman.
Bonus: Brian Azzarello is also in this episode at various points, talking about his new Image comic Moonshine (which he'll be signing at Challengers on Saturday, November 19th), decompressed storytelling and also, professional wrestling.
This episode is presented in an entirely different order than it was recorded, just to confuse you.

He's coming 3,000 miles; you can come 5.

Sun, 25 Sep 2016 22:24:03 +0000

This is an international episode of CoC as England-based writer Antony Johnston joins Patrick and this week's special guest co-host, artist Christopher Mitten, to talk all about how they got into comics as fans and how they wound up working together.

They'll both be at Challengers on Saturday, October 1, 2016 from 1:00pm to 3:00pm.

Also, music from Antony's SILENCAEON project.

I assure you, we know what Snapchat is.

Mon, 19 Sep 2016 05:16:36 +0000

Dal has an iPhone 7.
Batman Day 2016 causes some Snapchat confusion.
We, once again, sell posters.
This week is an embarrassment of great comic riches. So, so, so many great books came out at once!
There is more entertainment diversity in comics now than ever before.
Patrick does NOT dislike Declan Shalvey's art. No matter what Dal tells you.
Genre racking in comic book shops.

Is the 2016 Election actually hurting comic sales?

Mon, 12 Sep 2016 01:03:28 +0000

This starts with probably too much talk about a toilet.
That leads, naturally of course, into the building of our new Back Issue boxes.
This is the last week we'll bring up our "C" logo t-shirt Kickstarter.
Barnes & Noble is having a rough go of book-selling and that leads us to other retailers and their reasons for a perceived economic downturn. Their reasons surprise us.
Clowns!
DC sales are up. Marvel's are down.
We're looking forward to: Supergirl: Being Super, Green Valley, Moonshine, Shade the Changing Girl, Wonder Woman: The True Amazon.
Brian Azzaerllo is joining us for Local Comic Shop Day!

Whose fault is it when a title gets cancelled?

Mon, 05 Sep 2016 00:28:13 +0000

This one goes over the 2-hour mark as Patrick and Dal talk about:
Messy store shelves
The new Back Issue boxes
Chicago's impending Amazon store
Image Comics moving their offices to Portland
New title announcements from this weekend's Diamond Retailer Summit
Whose fault is it when a title gets cancelled? The Publisher? The retailers? The consumers?
Lots of talk about pre-orders and why it is NOT your responsibility.

Frank Ocean's impact on the comics industry.

Mon, 29 Aug 2016 02:21:51 +0000

In a 'rewarding' episode, we talk about how Five Stars is working out for us as a customer rewards program. Is it needed to stay competitive?
On the heels of Wizard World Chicago, we reminisce about our earliest con-going experiences (and John Byrne).
Armed robbery (not of Challengers, but next to).
Secret product drops and the comics industry.
Civil War II is late and longer and going to wrap AFTER the new Marvel Now launches, just like Secret Wars and All-New All-Different Marvel. So we DON'T learn from mistakes?
Patrick is digging a bunch of Dark Horse titles.

Why work for Marvel when you can work for yourself?

Mon, 22 Aug 2016 03:42:24 +0000

Live from Seattle, RJ Casey joins Patrick to talk about self-publishing, small press, and working at Fantagraphics. You may recognize RJ's name from several Yeti Press events at Challengers, so hear what took him from the Windy City to the City of Destiny. We go back to the beginning of RJ's comic fandom roots and follow his reading trends away from mainstream comics. Also, Patrick tries unsuccessfully to get RJ to read "The Vision."

Patrick lost the banana key

Mon, 15 Aug 2016 03:08:04 +0000

Fridays are down, man, and we don't know why. Jesse Hedman from Minneapolis stopped by the shop. Marking up open order variant covers. Five Stars loyalty program. The Cap Statue gets dusted in (human) ashes. Black Panther. Deathstroke.

The internal metric below which we are wasting our time

Mon, 08 Aug 2016 02:28:29 +0000

Emails! We're sending lots of emails! Crowd-funding to save stores (not ours). Thank you, Dal's Mom. No Comic Hub. Flashback to 7 years ago. Tilting at Windmills. Hardcover Watchmen. Lady Killer 2 and Animosity reviews. Hurrah!

This 70 minutes of my life is value-less; I should just watch Batman: The Killing Joke.

Mon, 01 Aug 2016 01:18:30 +0000

The upcoming week is a big one for us behind the scenes, as we install a brand new point of sale system, ComicHub. Patrick and Dal each got to experience the store as customers do. Have you heard of Boulet? He's très magnifique. And there is way too much time spent discussing Batman The Killing Joke.

'theres no irony in forgeing ones logo/signatures'

Sun, 24 Jul 2016 21:22:28 +0000

We Want EVERY Award! We Won an International Award but Lost a Local One. An alternative bookstore is NOT a comic shop!! Ebay interactions are ridiculous. Comic-Con International San Diego is happening as we record! Image announces 2 fun-sounding books. And… new action figures are a-coming!

A Founding Avenger Dies this week, Killed by Another Avenger, and We Cannot Bring Ourselves to Care

Mon, 18 Jul 2016 06:40:20 +0000

Holy cats are there a ton of new Marvel Comics scheduled for this fall! There are also many more pre-SDCC announcements. So! Many! And we kind of dump all over Civil War II #3.

If Thor can be Mighty AND Unworthy, why Can't Iron Man be Invincible AND Nefarious?

Mon, 11 Jul 2016 03:57:49 +0000

What is Dal's fascination with Kate McKinnon? It's a cornucopia of pre-San Diego Comic-Con news this week! The Great Lakes Avengers are back!

Contest of Challengers 267: Spatially Economical

Mon, 04 Jul 2016 00:15:30 +0000

My least favorite part of every episode is writing this description. Also, this episode's title was supposed to be LAST week's title, but I forgot and just took the name of the song that was playing at the time I posted it.

Contest of Challengers 266: As Good as it Gets

Mon, 27 Jun 2016 03:28:51 +0000

Patrick is joined by a very special guest and they talk about Brexit, Roman Reigns' suspension, Ikea, a non-Challengers comic shop, the first month of DC Rebirth titles, Civil War II and plenty more.

Contest of Challengers 265: Sliced Fried Gold

Mon, 20 Jun 2016 04:30:49 +0000

It's total role-reversal this episode as Patrick chats with David Harper of SKTCHD.com and the Off Panel Podcast.

Contest of Challengers 264: Green Rebirth

Mon, 06 Jun 2016 06:07:43 +0000

Lots more Rebirth talk, about this week's Rebirth titles.

Contest of Challengers 263: Hail Rebirth

Mon, 30 May 2016 01:48:14 +0000

This episode was only 9 minutes… but then Patrick added to it. You're welcome.

Contest of Challengers 262: Table for One

Mon, 16 May 2016 00:50:33 +0000

Patrick goes solo this week and is sorry for the terrible audio quality of this episode. Even more sorry for the passing of Darwyn Cooke.

Contest of Challengers 261: Survival of the Free-est

Mon, 09 May 2016 06:43:59 +0000

What a week of events we've had! Jill Thompson, Lucy Knisley and Free Comic Book Day are all discussed here. Wheee!

Contest of Challengers 260: Pre Comic Book Day

Tue, 03 May 2016 03:48:00 +0000

A bonus episode! This is a rundown of the free comicsChallengers is offering on Free Comic Book Day!

Contest of Challengers 259: Things Lost Its Way

Mon, 02 May 2016 03:50:48 +0000

DC presented retailers with a Rebirth Roadshow and we were there! Here's a recap!

Contest of Challengers 258: Jesus, Andrea!

Mon, 25 Apr 2016 02:21:41 +0000

We’ve made an addition to our already awesome Free Comic Book Day line-up, and that addition is the delightful Andrea Bell! The creator of FAIR VOYAGE joins Patrick this week to talk art and comics, to drink beer, and to say “EpiPen” many times. And she doesn’t belch at all. Also, there are many (many) tangents.

Contest of Challengers 257: BotCon 2016

Mon, 18 Apr 2016 03:50:55 +0000

Dal gives us a pre and post show rundown/recap for BotCon 2016, with a brief interlude from Patrick about picking up the free comic book day comics. So you still get BOTH CoC hosts, just separately.

Contest of Challengers 256: Clampdown

Mon, 11 Apr 2016 03:17:34 +0000

Lots of news coming out of the weekend’s Emerald City Comicon.

Contest of Challengers 255: Have Faith

Mon, 04 Apr 2016 04:14:54 +0000

Faith Erin Hicks will be @ Challengers this Wednesday! We also talk about lots of other stuff. Lots, I say!

Contest of Challengers 254: Rebirth

Mon, 28 Mar 2016 02:42:21 +0000

This episode is pretty much and hour and a half of us discussing DC’s Rebirth creative teams. There are a few short stories, but basically all DC.

Contest of Challengers 253: C2E2_2016

Mon, 21 Mar 2016 03:18:08 +0000

Patrick and Dal run down this year’s C2E2 experience. And then Patrick takes you thru 2 successful C2E2 store events. Bonus(?)—the whole episode is recorded in a car!

Contest of Challengers 252: The HARDEST Working People

Mon, 14 Mar 2016 02:13:58 +0000

Our 2016 FCBD plans are discussed! Amy Chu. And I just realized I never finished writing the description. Too late now!

Contest of Challengers 251: Comparative Gold

Mon, 07 Mar 2016 06:36:11 +0000

Stop stealing from us! Please and thank you. Revolution’s Galaxy Hero Relaunch Party for C2E2. In-Store Convention Kick Off. CBR. ComicsPRO.

Contest of Challengers 250: Finding It's Level

Mon, 29 Feb 2016 06:42:00 +0000

With no fanfare (aside from this right here) it’s Episode #250!! We talk about retailer reactions to DC’s Rebirth via Facebook, Warner Bros. possible franchise comics and listener Top 10 pulls list choices!

Contest of Challengers 249: Shoot a Bullet

Mon, 22 Feb 2016 04:18:49 +0000

More on DC Rebirth. Eric Stephenson’s ComicsPRO speech. Do lower cover prices help? And more!

Contest of Challengers 248: Using Weasel Words

Mon, 15 Feb 2016 02:06:26 +0000

Let’s charge 3x the cover price for all comics! Lucky Penny is awesome! So is Deadpool! The tip of the Toy Fair iceberg! The post office stole my Deadpool art!

Contest of Challengers 247: The Last Mile

Mon, 08 Feb 2016 05:15:38 +0000

Patrick’s notes for this episode read, “Podcasting, 360°, Classic Comics Journalism, ‘The Last Mile,’ How Amazon Works, The Cost of Doing Business.”

Contest of Challengers 246: The 5 Copy Rule

Mon, 01 Feb 2016 02:00:56 +0000

Oh Indy Comics, why you be frontin? A new layout for Challengers? More?

Contest of Challengers 245: Trans-Media Synergy

Tue, 26 Jan 2016 00:41:04 +0000

DC Rebirth. What is it? Do we even care? Dal has lots of thoughts.

Contest of Challengers 244: Fit All the Words

Mon, 18 Jan 2016 04:36:13 +0000

For not having a plan for this week’s episode, it sure gets away from us and is extra-long. Personal collections are discussed as is Civil War II, a new club sign-up form, and the Power Rangers.

Contest of Challengers 243: Look

Mon, 11 Jan 2016 06:33:43 +0000

Patrick has a list of notes this week! Too many to mention here. And, 2015’s best-selling single issues.

Contest of Challengers 242: Units V. Sales

Mon, 04 Jan 2016 06:19:14 +0000

Marvel wanted retailers to hold back 7 books this week. 2015’s best-selling graphic novels. That’s the bulk of it, right there.

Contest of Challengers 241: The Force Awakens

Fri, 01 Jan 2016 07:41:58 +0000

FULL OF MOVIE SPOILERS! Recorded just after we saw Star Wars The Force Awakens, but held back until more people had the chance to see it. Since then, Dal has seen it 4 times and Patrick, twice. Happy 2016.

Contest of Challengers 240: They Can Be Fun

Mon, 28 Dec 2015 03:44:57 +0000

We open gifts! We talk 2015 sales vs 2014 sales and DC’s upcoming accelerated shipping plan. Also we really like Patsy Walker AKA Hellcat #1. Happy New Year.

Contest of Challengers 239: Upgrade

Sun, 20 Dec 2015 22:42:07 +0000

New computers and operating systems. “Fun” customer interactions. How DCYou and All-New All-Different Marvel are faring across the country. Merry Christmas.

Contest of Challengers 238: Poopie!

Mon, 14 Dec 2015 04:32:28 +0000

This one feels like it’s half movies/half comics.

Contest of Challengers 237: We are Robin War Son of Grayson

Mon, 07 Dec 2015 04:34:34 +0000

Gift-giving graphic novels (hooray for alliteration!!), The Vision, Harley, Robin War, Local Spotlight Saturdays, alphabetized Graphic Novels, new computer, Comixology woes. And more.

Contest of Challengers 236: Just, Okay

Mon, 30 Nov 2015 02:52:04 +0000

Our final 2015 Local Comic Shop Day podcast. Trust us; we’re just as relieved as you.

Contest of Challengers 235: AKA Alias

Mon, 23 Nov 2015 05:05:34 +0000

Marvel’s latest Netflix show ALIAS is really good!

Contest of Challengers 234: Money, Please

Mon, 16 Nov 2015 01:10:53 +0000

We have a Patreon… just sayin.’ We talk about a bunch of New Comics and Local Comic Shop Day. And other stuff.

Contest of Challengers 233: A War You Were Never Going To Win

Mon, 02 Nov 2015 03:23:55 +0000

Marvel is taking a beating in the comics press. We will not have a Batman/TMNT exclusive cover. No-New, All-Similar Marvel readers. New club member emails. All that and a CM Punk cameo.

Contest of Challengers 232: Let's Go Comics

Mon, 26 Oct 2015 04:47:30 +0000

This episode is kind of ‘more of the same’ only looking thru a sharper lens. More All-New All-Different Marvel talk. More variant cover talk. And then Dal gets really, really mad. Really mad.

Contest of Challengers 231: Eliza

Mon, 19 Oct 2015 03:37:44 +0000

Eliza Frye joins Patrick to talk about the New York Comiccon, KickStarter fulfillment and to get pelted with Cheerios.

Contest of Challengers 230: Moon Serpents

Mon, 12 Oct 2015 01:56:55 +0000

Doesn’t ANYONE read Dal’s blog?

Contest of Challengers 229: Apolitical (Comics) Blues

Mon, 05 Oct 2015 03:13:39 +0000

Bastions of Positivity, that’s us. Arbiters of Acceptance. Stay off the GD Internet.

Contest of Challengers 228: You're a Liar

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 02:05:33 +0000

Don’t worry, the 20 minute Blindspot discussion takes place AFTER the outro, so you can easily skip it.

Contest of Challengers 227: This is Number One

Mon, 14 Sep 2015 03:14:13 +0000

This was recorded during Riot Fest, but unlike last year you can’t hear any bands, only police sirens. Lots of police sirens.

Contest of Challengers 226: Heath Corson

Sun, 06 Sep 2015 23:04:10 +0000

You am HATE this episode with terrible BIZARRO writer Heath Corson. Boo-ray!

Contest of Challengers 225: Star, COMICS, Star

Mon, 31 Aug 2015 06:38:46 +0000

More 5,000 copy Variant Cover ideas. How is the DCYou line doing? Doctor Strange villains. Local Comic Shop Day! Etc.

Contest of Challengers 224: Controversy of Challengers

Mon, 24 Aug 2015 03:32:24 +0000

While that title is actually said in this episode, it’s a little misleading to have it represent the entire show—but we did it anyway. Also, more Hip-Hop variant numbers and what people look for in comic shops.

Contest of Challengers 223: Kofi

Tue, 18 Aug 2015 04:11:17 +0000

Patrick talks to WWE Superstar KOFI KINGSTON about being a comics fan on the road… and maybe a little wrestling talk, too. #clapnation

Contest of Challengers 222: Kiss of Death

Mon, 10 Aug 2015 07:10:54 +0000

Wouldn’t it be nice if everyone pre-ordered comics? Plus, free BONUS material for everyone!

Contest of Challengers 221: Breaking the Chains

Mon, 03 Aug 2015 00:52:26 +0000

If we were to start naming every episode after Dokken song titles, how long would it take you to notice?

Contest of Challengers 220: Three For All

Mon, 27 Jul 2015 01:34:27 +0000

It’s like 3 episodes in one this week! The usual Patrick/Dal biz talk, then Kent Challenger takes us thru this week’s books, and finally artist Zach Lehner, pitches us his new book, JUNIOR BRAVES OF THE APOCALYPSE.

Contest of Challengers 219: Two Years Later

Mon, 20 Jul 2015 03:33:38 +0000

Patrick solves a puzzle that’s been plaguing him for 2 years. Also, personnel changes at Diamond, 2 other Patrick interviews and more.

Contest of Challengers 218: San Diego Cache-Out

Mon, 13 Jul 2015 04:29:02 +0000

All the news out of this weekend’s San Diego Comic-Con, and what it means to our business… especially our October 2015 business.

Contest of Challengers 217: Just Visiting

Mon, 06 Jul 2015 00:47:31 +0000

Not only do we go over the Image Expo announcements and talk about all 44 (so far) upcoming Marvel titles, but we start off with a little shop talk… Email Newsletters, Bagging Graphic Novels, other Podcasts, Plastic Bags, and more.

Contest of Challengers 216: Last Looks

Mon, 29 Jun 2015 02:44:17 +0000

A few behind-the-scenes changes from both Marvel and DC impact how we’ll do business in the future. And as San Diego draws near, lots of new announcements are rolling out…

Contest of Challengers 215: Drugs, Drugs, Drugs

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 03:08:09 +0000

Dal is away at Bot-Con this week, so filling in for him is a fellow comics retailer from *gasp* a store other than Challengers! Patrick and his guest cover the gamut of current comics retailing, being a fan AND being an employee, and all good stuff in-between.

Contest of Challengers 214: American Dream(ers)

Mon, 15 Jun 2015 04:16:04 +0000

All-New All-Different Marvel, more Secret Wars, New DC titles/Divergence, We Stand On Guard, Heck, all-ages single issues. Rest in Peace, Dream.

Contest of Challengers 213: Evolution Calling

Mon, 08 Jun 2015 03:32:11 +0000

Secret Wars a-plenty! Literally, like half the episode, and this one is almost 2 hours. Also, DC writers vs Marvel writers, Convergence, pre-Botcon, the 606, and bunches more.

Contest of Challengers 212: Our Finest Effort

Mon, 25 May 2015 03:58:37 +0000

You know what happened this episode? No one brought us ice cream, that’s what.

Contest of Challengers 211: Never Enough

Mon, 11 May 2015 06:26:46 +0000

A new song from Adam WarRock. Secret Wars #1. The Star Wars. Barry Allen. A quiz. Podcasting is fun and also bitter.

Contest of Challengers 210: Never Enough

Mon, 04 May 2015 02:31:17 +0000

It’s everybody’s favorite annual episode… the Free Comic Book Day post mortem! And some Batman #40 talk, too.

Contest of Challengers 209: See To, Eat Too

Mon, 27 Apr 2015 03:54:58 +0000

Patrick and Dal were both at C2E2 at the same time! This was their day. And this is long. Sorry?

Contest of Challengers 208: We Know What It Looks Like

Mon, 20 Apr 2015 03:50:34 +0000

It’s not just comics this week as the guys talk about Daredevil on Netflix and both the Force Awakens and Dawn of Justice trailers. But, you know, comics, too.

Contest of Challengers 207: No Wrong Answer

Mon, 13 Apr 2015 02:27:28 +0000

Free comic books, surveys, KickStarters, selling that which is free, Kaijumax, Gene Ha, and more.

Contest of Challengers 206: Associated Browsing

Mon, 06 Apr 2015 03:06:52 +0000

Patrick is a rude jerk. A Turtle “died.” Paste Magazine’s 12 Women that have helped Transform the Comics Industry. Our Graphic Novel racking Survey. And more.

Contest of Challengers 205: Lots of Podcasts Have a North

Mon, 30 Mar 2015 04:23:16 +0000

A (very long) Publisher’s Weekly Retailer Survey. 10 years of (new) Doctor Who. New customers means a brief new comic imbalance.

Contest of Challengers 204: Nobody Knows You're a Human

Mon, 23 Mar 2015 04:02:30 +0000

We’re KickStarting our latest t-shirt! Is Marvel cancelling 33 title? Nope. And we do NOT Talk about that Joker Batgirl cover. You’re welcome.

Contest of Challengers 203: Next Topic

Mon, 16 Mar 2015 04:00:00 +0000

It’s a potpourri of comic topics this week and Patrick and Dal run ‘em all down, including the post Convergence DC costume changes, Marvel pulling out of SDCC, Gift Bag services and how they inflate sales numbers, and maybe, just maybe, the ROH return of Saoma Joe!

Contest of Challengers 202: Strength to Strength

Mon, 09 Mar 2015 04:24:03 +0000

Spider-Woman #5 is SO GOOD. Wizard Fan Fest? Not so much. And we recap recent events. Plus, robots!

Contest of Challengers 201: Punked

Mon, 02 Mar 2015 04:07:42 +0000

We survived the Jason Aaron / CM Punk signing! And then what starts as a small rant about how we order Marvel Comics turned into an hour-long rant.

Contest of Challengers 200: Lady Humans

Mon, 23 Feb 2015 07:35:56 +0000

I have no idea what to write here as neither Patrick nor Dal are on this episode…

Contest of Challengers 199: Divergent Displacement

Mon, 16 Feb 2015 05:00:50 +0000

Discussion of DC’s Divergence. Speculation of cinematic Spider-Men. Alliteration is fun! Mark Waid’s thoughts on Comic Retail and Dal takes a quiz.

Contest of Challengers 198: Mark as Played

Mon, 09 Feb 2015 03:09:09 +0000

Weekly publisher emails; comics published out of order; sale; pre-Toy Fair; Levar Burton, snow sales; and more.

Contest of Challengers 197: En Français

Mon, 02 Feb 2015 04:58:55 +0000

It’s time for the 42nd annual Festival d’Angoulême, and we’re not there! Also, David Tennant, Chris Pratt, and what Image is doing right and maybe not as right.

Contest of Challengers 196: Secret Convergence Wars

Mon, 26 Jan 2015 04:30:49 +0000

Are you as tired of these CM Punk questions as we are? Good, because we mainly talk about Marvel’s SECRET WARS and DC’s CONVERGENCE.

Contest of Challengers 195: Bad Actors

Mon, 19 Jan 2015 07:28:28 +0000

First we Run the Jewels and then we compare our 2014 Top Comic Sales to Diamond’s list of the same.

Contest of Challengers 194: EXPOsed

Mon, 12 Jan 2015 05:23:04 +0000

This episode is 90% Image Expo news and opinions. And then there’s some Charlie Hebdo thrown in to bring us all down, too.

Contest of Challengers 193: Spin It Up

Mon, 05 Jan 2015 05:52:27 +0000

Welcome to a very chilly episode of Contest of Challengers. We’re cold, but we’re chatty.

Contest of Challengers 192: Combiner Wars Voyager Class Podcast

Mon, 29 Dec 2014 02:58:28 +0000

This episode is more of a Christmas episode than last episode’s Christmas episode. We talk gifts, traditions, Holiday sales stats and all about Black Mirror White Christmas.

Contest of Challengers 191: All-Purpose Sandwich

Mon, 22 Dec 2014 05:04:23 +0000

Merry Christmas from Contest of Challengers. This episode feels more like a cooking show than a comic business podcast.

Contest of Challengers 190: Accidental Intentional Harm

Mon, 15 Dec 2014 05:07:54 +0000

Oh, Internet… you get outraged over so very many things. Show opener courtesy of WGN Radio, Chicago.

Contest of Challengers 189: Constantly Evolving

Mon, 08 Dec 2014 04:53:21 +0000

The bulk of this episode is made up of talk about the Flash and Arrow TV shows and an upcoming signing with Jason Aaron and CM Punk. There’s also talk about Red Dwarf, Infinity Inc, and the new Secret Six. And a brand new Christmas song by the Divorce Gun, called “Santa.”

Contest of Challengers 188: In Universe

Mon, 01 Dec 2014 08:04:21 +0000

Knights of the Dinner Table, in-store video filming, our Christmas website, a new store mascot (kind of), toy shopping at K-Mart, Incredible Change Bots, and so very much more.

Contest of Challengers 187: Omniscient Narration

Mon, 24 Nov 2014 06:29:28 +0000

We’ve moved the register; Patrick saw Dee Snider, Mick Foley, Colt Cabana, and Marty DeRosa and was on the radio; the artist of Rat Queens makes a BIG mistake; and we discuss the artistic styling of David Finch.

Contest of Challengers 186: The Pig Game

Mon, 17 Nov 2014 06:15:06 +0000

Strap in—it’s our longest episode yet! Lots and lots of comic talk, and a few new racking ideas, too.

Contest of Challengers 185: System Error

Mon, 10 Nov 2014 05:45:49 +0000

We end this episode with almost 25 minutes of Doctor Who talk, but before that is discussion of new ways to rack graphic novels, and how we plan to change up our creator signings in 2015. Also, Tooth and Claw #1.

Contest of Challengers 184: More Than 2 Copies

Mon, 03 Nov 2014 07:23:28 +0000

Topics include: Publishers we will stop carrying in 2015, #FCBDGate (terrible, terrible name), Revival-ween, Scott McCloud’s “The Sculptor” and a quick interview with writer Dave Scheidt.

Contest of Challengers 183: Monstros!

Mon, 27 Oct 2014 04:20:51 +0000

Two weeks in the making. First, our immediate impressions of the Gustavo Duarte Art Show, recorded in the car immediately after the event, next, a long segment on #GamerGate and gaming comics, and then highlights of new #1 issues out this week.

Contest of Challengers 182: Other People's Happiness

Mon, 13 Oct 2014 03:33:24 +0000

Small changes to Sidekicks and one GIANT addition. New York Comic Con news. Birthright #1 is pretty great. Batman #35 is NOT what you think.

Contest of Challengers 181: Have a Cookie

Mon, 06 Oct 2014 03:05:11 +0000

Technology talk! Talking about Square transitions into ComiXology transitions into ComicSuite. And then Club talk. Oh, pull and hold service—something has to give. Also, how in-store signings are like Artist Alley tables, and then we talk a bunch of new comics! Thor, Men of Wrath, Gotham Academy, Batgirl and more!

Contest of Challengers 180: Too Big a Gun

Mon, 29 Sep 2014 03:36:26 +0000

Half-price recent comics, veteran creators abandoning comic conventions, neighbors, and memorable runs on Fantastic Four. That’s what is talked about this episode. And please welcome our sponsor, TheMacTutor.com!

Contest of Challengers 179: Patreon Games

Mon, 22 Sep 2014 04:35:30 +0000

Who would have thought we could tie Scottish Independence into the comics industry? Well, we do. We also talk how easy it is to fall behind on current titles, haphazard release schedules, store sponsorship, what’s going on in the current Avengers titles, and Marvel’s AXIS event.

Contest of Challengers 178: The Slayer Episode

Mon, 15 Sep 2014 04:51:36 +0000

Maybe Silent Scream is a better episode name, keeping the Slayer theme. We talk Star Wars, our recent GHA and Speculative Relationships events, how we plan to hold Art Shows moving forward, Thor #1 variants and some over-looked titles from last week.

Contest of Challengers 177: Oil Has Its Uses

Thu, 04 Sep 2014 04:15:10 +0000

Southern Bastards #4; Death of Wolverine #2; Patrick goes under 8 knives; Big Hero Six; Greg Rucka’s “Bravo”; that’s kind of all I can remember, but I know there’s more.

Contest of Challengers 176: Pre-Op

Tue, 26 Aug 2014 05:26:44 +0000

A dedicated LGBT section; Geek Bar Chicago; Storm #2; Spider-Woman #1; Patrick loves Amy Reeder; more.

Contest of Challengers 175: Slave to the Grind

Wed, 20 Aug 2014 05:34:56 +0000

This episode delves into Challengers slightly new ComiXology procedures, how recent ComicSuite changes have lengthened the time it takes to place our monthly orders, retailer preview books, the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge and more.

Contest of Challengers 174: In Medias Res

Mon, 11 Aug 2014 04:11:11 +0000

Toys! Events! Comics! And Guardians of the Galaxy. We’re very current.

Contest of Challengers 173: Breaking the Glass Doorway

Mon, 04 Aug 2014 05:13:16 +0000

This episode, Patrick, Dal and Puppycat catch us all up on recent happenings @ Challengers, during business hours AND after, and then go over the big announcements that came out of San Diego.

Contest of Challengers 172: Boots on the Ground

Mon, 28 Jul 2014 02:50:29 +0000

Live from San Diego… Patrick and Ashly Challenger present a day-by-day recap of their adventures at Comic-Con International 2014, recorded every night on the scene.

Contest of Challengers 171: Duplication

Mon, 21 Jul 2014 04:07:33 +0000

It’s a pre-San Diego episode! We talk about what to expect at Comic-Con this year and the exclusives we want. We also talk about the recent comic announcements, including Batgirl, Thor, how good Storm #1 is and more.

Contest of Challengers 170: You Are Not Those People

Mon, 23 Jun 2014 05:42:31 +0000

It’s not just us; Mark Waid has delinquent club members, too! We also talk about how frustrating it is ordering Marvel Comics every month, ordering grudges, and a few aesthetic changes to Challengers and Sidekicks.

Contest of Challengers 169: Wrangling Stingrays

Mon, 09 Jun 2014 07:45:26 +0000

After a weirdly aquatic start, Patrick and Dal jump right back into the Podcast swing by talking about pre-orders, employee expectations, new windows and slow computers.

Contest of Challengers 168: Perceived Quality

Mon, 12 May 2014 05:35:01 +0000

We talk about how our title sales rate against the national average, with Batman = 100. We talk about Hellblazer writers, and mention the name “Ennis” many, many times. We talk next year’s comic book TV shows and we talk about Arrow way more than we should.

Contest of Challengers 167: Done Again, Better

Mon, 05 May 2014 03:38:36 +0000

It’s our annual Free Comic Book Day wrap-up episode, and this time it’s not negative! I know! We’re just as surprised as you!

Contest of Challengers 166: Oversight

Mon, 21 Apr 2014 23:15:31 +0000

Whoops. Completely forgot to post this on time. Was too busy working on the June 2014 orders. Always some other Challengers thing gets in the way.

Contest of Challengers 165: Daylight Breaks

Mon, 14 Apr 2014 03:23:48 +0000

So weird recording this in the light… Amazon buys ComiXology. Iron Fist, Ghost Rider and Shang-Chi. And, Lumberjanes’ Noelle Stevenson.

Contest of Challengers 164: The Bread

Mon, 07 Apr 2014 04:23:21 +0000

Music! We play a lot of it in the store, but do you actually LIKE it? We don’t care.

Contest of Challengers 163: An Embarrassment of Richards

Mon, 31 Mar 2014 06:06:43 +0000

RICHAAAAARRRRDS!!! Also, we turn 6.

Contest of Challengers 162: Floor Underpants

Mon, 17 Mar 2014 04:19:16 +0000

This is one of those episodes where the episode title is 100% accurate.

Contest of Challengers 161: Everything at Once

Mon, 10 Mar 2014 02:10:41 +0000

In an episode that actually has a bunch of comics-related discussion, there sure is a lot of talk about gluten…

Contest of Challengers 160: Good, Fast or Cheap. Pick Two.

Mon, 03 Mar 2014 10:51:06 +0000

More noise-yums for yer earholes. The return of bike messenger delivery talks, paying for things at many, many cons, and brand new event announcements.

Contest of Challengers 159: What Fanbase?

Mon, 24 Feb 2014 04:55:54 +0000

23 years as retailers and we still can’t order right. New Warriors, Mighty Avengers and other Marvel talk. ToyFair 2014 and what we’re excited for. And more. Open them earholes and prepare for noise-yums.

Contest of Challengers 158: Insert Link Here

Mon, 17 Feb 2014 02:54:46 +0000

Oh man… we’re just going to save time and apologize to everyone right now. We have the best of intentions, but some of this may be misconstrued as deliberately insensitive, and that is not our intent at all. And on an episode where we talk about people feeling welcome and safe shopping at Challengers.

Contest of Challengers 157: Quizzed-Up

Mon, 03 Feb 2014 05:38:28 +0000

ChallengersComics.com in action! No Challengerlympics. Dropped club members. And QuizUp! All this in CoC episode 157.

Contest of Challengers 156: All-New Contest of Challengers.Now

Mon, 27 Jan 2014 06:54:26 +0000

This episode is all about All-New Marvel Now titles, Talk Like Paul Stanley Day, Brian Posehn, Marvel Super Hero Mashers toys, and more.

Contest of Challengers 155: Expo Say

Mon, 13 Jan 2014 05:46:59 +0000

Man, Image sure has a lot of new books coming out. Plus an event 4 years in the making!

Contest of Challengers 154: Climbing the Stairs of Sales

Mon, 06 Jan 2014 05:54:08 +0000

It’s the first episode of 2014, so after some current news, that means a look back at the best-selling graphic novels of 2013.

Contest of Challengers 153: Puppet Nation

Tue, 31 Dec 2013 20:55:46 +0000

A look back to Christmas 2013 and other high points of the year.

Contest of Challengers 152: We Made This

Tue, 17 Dec 2013 06:05:48 +0000

This episode is 90% DC Comics sales numbers over the past 10 years and how the ranking differs for Challengers. There’s more, but it’s really sales numbers-heavy this episode. And an Adam WarRock song for you at the end.

Contest of Challengers 151: Original Graphic Content

Tue, 10 Dec 2013 05:59:12 +0000

We solve the mystery of what to do for Episode #150, by skipping #150 altogether! No, that’s not true; we have only adjusted to the proper episode numbering (thanks to Episode #100.5). Anyway, this episode is all about Original Graphic Novels as a business model and our Sixth Gun party.

Contest of Challengers 149: Six to the Gun

Tue, 03 Dec 2013 07:09:53 +0000

Bill Willingham, Cameron Stewart and Christopher Mitten were all just here. Cullen Bunn and Brian Hurtt will be here. But man do we love playing QuizUp. And just who, WHO is this week’s co-host…? Also, Eugene Ahn (Adam WarRock), Colt Cabana, CM Punk and Skottie Young.

Contest of Challengers 148: Rock City

Mon, 18 Nov 2013 04:49:56 +0000

Lone survivor of a dying planet, Aw Yeah Comics Publisher, Chris “Zod” Smits joins Patrick to discuss Byrne/Claremont X-Men, Chicago KickStarter domination, and self-publishing in today’s market. Yes.

Contest of Challengers 147: Back In The New York Groove

Mon, 04 Nov 2013 02:42:11 +0000

No your ears have not deceived you, Virginia; this is in fact a NEW episode of Contest of Challengers, complete with music from Concrete Cross.

Contest of Challengers 146: Clubbing Part 2 Nothin to Lose

Mon, 16 Sep 2013 03:33:50 +0000

Dal and Patrick respond to your concerns about the proposed club changes. And they talk about Villains Month and Marvel’s December solicitations, but mainly the club thing.

Contest of Challengers 145: Clubbing

Mon, 09 Sep 2013 03:49:26 +0000

Theoretical changes are proposed to Your Box at Challengers, our subscription program.

Contest of Challengers 144: One Man Army Chattingers

Mon, 02 Sep 2013 07:17:34 +0000

It’s another Chattingers episode this week, as Patrick and guests discuss Jack Kirby’s future Captain America, O.M.A.C., the One Man Army Corps.

Contest of Challengers 143: Variants On A Theme

Sun, 25 Aug 2013 21:18:47 +0000

Do you like yelling? In an episode originally titled “Cataclysm” we yell about, well, a few weeks worth of stored up topics. It’s not like this intro is your make-or-break decision for listening, right? We can be vague here.

Contest of Challengers 142: Not Good Enough

Mon, 12 Aug 2013 02:32:00 +0000

In order this week… Customer Bags, Ryan North and KickStarter, DC’s Villains Month, and Magic the Gathering. And about 6 audio clip drop-ins. And we cut out 4 minutes on why Patrick loves Richie Kotzen. You’ll just have to ask him about that in the store.

Contest of Challengers 141: The Boss of the Podcast

Mon, 05 Aug 2013 03:49:54 +0000

I dunno. Stuff.

Contest of Challengers 140: Anything Nice

Mon, 22 Jul 2013 04:42:04 +0000

Recorded during the 2013 Eisner Awards, Patrick and W. Dal are super-distracted waiting to find out if they won… and the read a LOT of Twitter posts. For the record, 1:09:14 is the money shot.

Contest of Challengers 139: Quickfire

Mon, 01 Jul 2013 06:04:24 +0000

Here is what is discussed… Changing discounts, Small Press publishers vs. Local Artists, Comics Quickfire, and Paul Pope. Also, someone coughs a lot.

Contest of Challengers 138: Event Horizon

Mon, 24 Jun 2013 06:27:05 +0000

Oh, we have a LOT of events coming up…

Contest of Challengers 137: Science

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 05:15:20 +0000

It took me forever to come up with the title for this episode, and I have no more energy left to give you a description. Sorry.

Contest of Challengers 136: Coterie of Challengers

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 03:52:08 +0000

Dal is on vacation this week, and it takes not one, not two, but THREE, three other Challengers to replace him. It is, as the title suggests, a coterie of Challengers this week. So of course we talk about donuts.

Contest of Challengers 135: Birthright

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 04:11:25 +0000

It’s a box episode this week as we shine a spotlight on CHATTINGERS, our monthly Graphic Novel Book Club. SUPERMAN: BIRTHRIGHT takes the stage and you get to listen in as if you were actually there.

Contest of Challengers 134: Gee, Axe Us

Mon, 27 May 2013 04:03:45 +0000

We do not talk about the Eisner Awards this week (yet) but instead this episode is almost divided into 2 equal parts about creators altering characters to suit a story and the changing viability of a perceived secondary consumer market. Or, to put it another way, Transformers comics and the X-Box One.

Contest of Challengers 133: Almost Being Human Nation

Mon, 20 May 2013 06:16:28 +0000

Business as usual. Oh, and the words “mom” “teen” and “backdoor” were in this episode, not necessarily in that order, but were edited out. Other than that, we pretty much stick to comics stuff, and a little Star Trek.

Contest of Challengers 132: Suit Yourself

Mon, 13 May 2013 06:23:43 +0000

Thank you for the cookies, Lauren (and Ryan)!! This episode comes to you from Ryan Browne’s art studio, surrounded by the sounds of all the God Hates Astronauts KickStarter rewards being packaged.

Contest of Challengers 131: C2E2/FCBD/13

Mon, 06 May 2013 02:44:50 +0000

More Injustice! Just kidding. It’s our C2E2/Free Comic Book Day wrap-up, with guest stars galore! Lizzy Challenger, Ashly Challenger, Luke Smarto, Wendi Freeman, Onrie Kompan and Ryan Browne. But it’s pretty FCBD heavy, for sure.

Contest of Challengers 130: In Just Us

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 18:44:47 +0000

The day INJUSTICE: GODS AMONG US came out, Dal, Patrick and Samantha bought it and played it for almost 2 hours. This is that.

Contest of Challengers 129: Non-Stop Comic Party

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 04:41:24 +0000

We spent all week getting ready for C2E2, yet we still have an hour for you. Also this week, a clip from Pat Loika’s LOIKAMANIA #138 featuring Christopher Daniels.

Contest of Challengers 128: Get On The Wavelength

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 07:12:50 +0000

Geoff Tate, Lucy Knisley, Ryan Brown, Adam Orth and Shane Carruth are all talked about in this episode. Total name-dropping, deluxe.

Contest of Challengers 127: Forgiven and Forgotten… or Forgotten

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 03:58:34 +0000

I really wanted to call this episode “Cold Redemption” but a far better title is “Dirty Laundry.” This one is real, honest and cathartic.

Contest of Challengers 126: On The Road

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 06:20:18 +0000

In a car. Eating cake. Not at the same time. Happy 5^th Anniversary to us!

Contest of Challengers 125: Lying Fallow

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 05:31:49 +0000

A long time ago, we used to be friends, and we talk about a lot of things this week, but the emphasis is on BKV, Marcos Martin and Panel Syndicate. Also, Marvel NOW sales, DC creative changes and the Justice League too, but mainly The Private Eye.

Contest of Challengers 124: Always Someone Else's Idea

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 04:49:30 +0000

Here is an in order list of the topics of this episode. Marvel Toys Handful of Heroes, Free Comic Book Day, Lighting Issues in Sidekicks, Lucy Knisley, PromicCon, The Massive bookplate, Morning Glories, Harlem Shake and Daniels & Kazarian.

Contest of Challengers 123: Don't Be A Hero

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 03:55:24 +0000

This episode’s alternate titles include, ”Ephemeral Worth” and “Soul Eroding.” By the time we were done recording this, we had no idea what we just talked about. So that should inspire you to listen, right? There’s also a, um, “bonus” song at the end.

Contest of Challengers 122: House of Hel

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 06:11:25 +0000

We’re more comic heavy this episode, as opposed to retail-themed, but there’s still plenty of digressions and video game talk, too. But if you take anything away from this one, it’s that you should read HELHEIM #1.

Contest of Challengers 121: Shaping Your Narrative

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 09:14:42 +0000

Rejected titles for this episode include “Movement No. 2” and “Some Level of Failure.”

Contest of Challengers 120: Emotional Investment

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 06:06:10 +0000

This episode we start slow but end big, with talk about Panel Babble 2, Sidekicks, how we shop for toys, Transformers (his name was Orion Pax!), Marvel continuity, and how to get movie fans into the comics of the same characters.

Contest of Challengers 119: Boots On The Ground

Sun, 27 Jan 2013 07:20:55 +0000

We’d love to tell you what this episode is all about, but that would spoil our new Intro feature (that may never be used again).

Contest of Challengers 118: Sidekickin'

Mon, 21 Jan 2013 06:03:17 +0000

SIDEKICKS, our all-ages comic room is ready! What does that mean for the Rogues Gallery? You’ll see… or hear… We also talk about Yelp reviews and Brian Posehn. This one is good; I promise.

Contest of Challengers 117: Mr. Flibble

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 05:35:10 +0000

Contest of Challengers 116: 5 More Years

Mon, 07 Jan 2013 03:31:13 +0000

Welcome to our 5^th calendar year of this Podcast (we started in 2009)! We think this is a good one, with an NYE recap, a New Back Issue system, and the top-selling trades of 2012.

Contest of Challengers 115: Calling All Cars

Mon, 31 Dec 2012 05:02:34 +0000

We take care of a little website hackin’ business first, but the majority of this is New Comic related! And most of that is Amazing #700. Spoilers abound. Happy New Year!

Contest of Challengers 114: Verbatim

Mon, 24 Dec 2012 13:20:38 +0000

Happy Holidays! This episode was recorded at 4am during Christmas Crisis, with a very, very tired Patrick and Dal. A new Graphic Novel initiative is introduced and both Molly Jane and Ashly Challenger join us for a quick 2012 look back.

Contest of Challengers 113: Meritocracy

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 06:34:21 +0000

This week we talk some Katie Cook, and there’s some griping about event attendance, but pretty much all we really talk about is the Image ‘No More 2^nd Prints’ policy. Yeah, a LOT about that.

Contest of Challengers 112: Death By A Thousand Cuts

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 03:53:37 +0000

Holiday Gift Guide; The Sixth Gun; James VanOsdol; roller coaster ordering and hope for the future.

Contest of Challengers 111: Appreciated Enthusiasm

Mon, 03 Dec 2012 04:07:44 +0000

You hear his voice every week at the start and end of each Contest of Challengers episode. Now you get to hear James VanOsdol all the way through.

Contest of Challengers 110: Winking Self-Awareness

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 06:50:13 +0000

Do you have any favorite web comics? We mention a few we dig and talk about some new talents (to us). We also discuss JVO’s Q101 book (more on that next week) and dig into The Comics Reporter’s list of the 10 Least Influential People in Comics. Also, Patrick edited this episode while simultaneously listening to the new Lindsey Buckingham live CD ONE MAN SHOW (which is SO amazing) so, you know, keep that in mind while listening…

Contest of Challengers 109: Fact Packed

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 07:35:57 +0000

The Untold History of Marvel Comics is a grand discussion topic for the week, as is the prospect of opening a new store in today’s market. Also, Kyle Higgins! He’s not, you know, ON the episode, but we talk about him. And we pick on Molly Jane. A little.

Contest of Challengers 108: High On A New Thing

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 07:25:00 +0000

This episode Patrick is joined by the amazingly talented JENNY FRISION. They talk about Jenny’s beginnings as a comic fan up to her present as a comic creator. They also drink a few bottles of some great, fruity Berliner beer from Chicago’s own Pipeworks Brewing.

Contest of Challengers 107: Select Cut

Mon, 05 Nov 2012 04:15:00 +0000

Who wants to talk about the Lucasfilm sale when there’s Assassain’s Creed III? Trick question. This episode is all over the map as Patrick, once again, has a list of topics to get thru before he passes out.

Contest of Challengers 106: Like Trolls

Mon, 29 Oct 2012 05:22:41 +0000

Fight injustice! Unorthodox economic revenge. Also, Dal is super-sleepy.

Contest of Challengers 105: Centuries of Taming

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 05:04:34 +0000

No method in our madness, just pride about our manner. This was recorded a week ago and I no longer remember what we talk about! Although I’m pretty sure there’s a bunch of NYCC stuff to go over… And a Batgirl web-series. And vodka.

Contest of Challengers 104: Learning Experience

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 05:24:50 +0000

There is no nerd rage here as Patrick is joined by the lovely and talented Stella Cheeks! Cartoons, comics and burlesque all come together in one infectious laughter-filled episode.

Contest of Challengers 103: Rocket of Love

Mon, 08 Oct 2012 06:19:55 +0000

I’m a rocket of love; take me! This episode is all about variant covers. You think we’ve said it all before, but we haven’t. All new information abounds. And MorrisonCon. And Parker’s Pick. RIDE! Episode art by Luke Smarto.

Contest of Challengers 102: From All Angles

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 06:27:14 +0000

He’s been a Challengers supporter since the beginning and he has more than put in his time behind the registers in comics retail; this week Patrick talks with Tony Valdez about life on both sides of the counter.

Contest of Challengers 101: The Mac Tutor

Mon, 24 Sep 2012 04:33:04 +0000

This episode is Apple heavy as our guest is Mac specialist and long-time friend, Tony Marengo. Tony, Patrick and Dal used to work together in the 90’s and this is an extended trip down comic book retail memory lane with 3 current small business owners.

Contest of Challengers 100.5: Leftovers

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 05:24:47 +0000

If you can only listen to ONE podcast this week, this is NOT that podcast. So non-integral is this episode, it doesn’t even get its own number. It’s a point five, for sure. This is everything we cut out of Episode 100, yet here it is, daring you to listen. You’ve been warned.

Contest of Challengers 100: Net Positive

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 06:32:00 +0000

Century Guild’s THOMAS NEGOVAN turns the tables and interviews Dal and Patrick for this, the recorded live in the store 100^th episode. Featuring Tom Kelly, Jose Capetillo, Melissa Chapel and not Jimmy PS Hayes. It’s our secret origin episode.

Contest of Challengers 99: Like a Father Going Out for Cigarettes in the Middle of the Night

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 08:28:59 +0000

A little bit of everything is on deck this time. Patrick’s episode of “Creative Has Nothing For You”; Ryan Browne talks Blast Furnace all sorts of Hawkeye goodness!

Contest of Challengers 98: Hey, Bella

Mon, 20 Aug 2012 05:58:33 +0000

Oh yes its Ladies Night and the feeling’s right; oh, what a night. That’s right; we spend an awful lot of time discussing a potential Women-Only night, as well as LeakyCon, Wizard World, Square, and Dal’s fake role in “Twilight.”

Contest of Challengers 97: Max Capacity

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 04:22:54 +0000

Dal relives his Wimbledon days as fictitious tennis takes center (clay) court… but only as a lead-in to a much greater Marvel Now discussion. And more from Colt Cabana.

Contest of Challengers 96: Wear the Crown

Wed, 01 Aug 2012 06:31:26 +0000

Ten years in the making! One half of Serpent Crown reunites as Patrick talks with long-time comics fan Chris Carlson. In another life (the 90’s) they were in a band together, and as an added bonus, the end of this episode features the unreleased Serpent Crown live track, “The Final Stand.”

Contest of Challengers 95: Random Donuts from Strangers

Mon, 23 Jul 2012 23:47:37 +0000

This week’s topics include a Writing component for Challengers Assemble!, a few new event announcements, the Mike Norton Surprise Party, and an annoying eBay story. And almost NO Transformers toy talk. Almost.

Contest of Challengers 94: Stay Classy

Tue, 17 Jul 2012 01:04:13 +0000

A 2-hour San Diego wrap up! What are the stories that impact Challengers the most? Also, cameos by James VanOsdol (thanks to his show on the Steve Dahl Network) and Tim Seeley (at the very, very end).

Contest of Challengers 93: Not Losing

Fri, 06 Jul 2012 05:22:24 +0000

This week Patrick and W. Dal talk about successful events, very delinquesnt subscribers, an alteration to Challengers' consignment policy and gallery exhibits that won't be happening.

Contest of Challengers 92: Something to Cry About

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 02:25:56 +0000

In an episode filled with animal crackers, Patrick and Dal talk about Brave, Rebekah Isaacs, KickStarter and more, and there’s even a (pre-recorded) cameo by WWE Champion, CM Punk (from someone else’s podcast).

Contest of Challengers 91: Self-Preservation

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 04:34:36 +0000

Busy summer! So many books! So many issues of so many books! And... Patton Oswalt! Not, you know, ON the episode, but we talk about him, as he talked about us. Bonus! MORE Transformers toy talks!

Contest of Challengers 90: Marauding We Will Go

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 05:12:01 +0000

We didn’t go to Book Expo America, but that doesn’t stop us from talking about it. Or the new DC #0 issues. Or Patrick’s childhood visit to the DC offices. And, yes, the secret history of Team America.

Contest of Challengers 89: Belly Up

Mon, 04 Jun 2012 05:40:08 +0000

It starts with a discouraging weekend and ends with a bunch of future excitement. With 1992 Chicago radio in-between. And Will Eisner “Spirit of Comics” nominations. And then, Belly. And Miss Ion’s Mall Business.

Contest of Challengers 88: Fire and Forget

Tue, 22 May 2012 05:20:23 +0000

How best to show off the store in a 5-minute video?
Presenting… Challengers To You.
And we’re bringing some old product lines back to the shelves.

Contest of Challengers 87: What Do I Get?

Thu, 10 May 2012 06:48:49 +0000

Lots of catching up to do, courtesy of Free Comic Book Day, The Avengers, the Robot Print Art Show and more. Guest-starring Colt Cabana, Kevin Nash and Sammy Hagar.

Contest of Challengers 86: Sum of One

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 05:15:46 +0000

86! The year Patrick graduated high school! Ha! He's old. And this week it shows, as he takes the reins solo while trying to tackle the question of morality in today's comic market.

Contest of Challengers 85: Officer Down!

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 15:34:24 +0000

It’s time for a post-C2E2 rundown here at Challengers Central, and NO convention wrap-up is complete without a thorough discussion of the beanie shark throwing game known as OFFICER DOWN!

Contest of Challengers 84: Radio-Free Challengers

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 07:11:00 +0000

We just can’t get enough of our toys! We talk about lots of stuff this week, but really, all we wanna talk about are our toys. And then we wonder if this actually adds value to your lives? Also, toys. And Colt Cabana drops by.

Contest of Challengers 83: Hoax and Mirrors

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 05:37:02 +0000

Interviews w/ Michael Moreci & Steve Seeley and Ryan Browne, conducted during our HOAX HUNTERS/SMOKE AND MIRRORS launch party! But before that Patrick and Dal talk about what they can't, or SHOULDN'T, talk about, and stories of pranking other stores.

Contest of Challengers 82: First Person Shooter

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 02:39:24 +0000

Us? Where have YOU been? I realize the title of this episode may make you think we interview Jim Shooter. We do not. But we DO talk about video games more than we should. And about Mark Waid. And once again, Dal does not support Patrick’s (self) righteous indignation on ANY topic.

Contest of Challengers 81: Ultimate Drawing Challenge(rs)

Mon, 20 Feb 2012 04:34:38 +0000

This is the hardest Patrick has laughed while editing an episode, but he’s a child. Can you survive the Ultimate Drawing Challenge! And if you skip Comic Book Men, try The Variants instead.

Contest of Challengers 80: Radically Off Base

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 05:28:40 +0000

Topics include Marvel Publisher Dan Buckley’s recent media comments and, briefly, Before Watchmen.

Contest of Challengers 79: Hand-To-Hand

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 07:10:55 +0000

Yes, we discuss our upcoming C2E2 layout. Sure, we discuss upcoming art shows and new show subjects. Absolutely we converse a LOT about hand selling. But most importantly, we talk about, and eat, s’mores.

Contest of Challengers 78: Localized Dialogue

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:05:35 +0000

Kyle Baker looks towards the future as Patrick and Dal look to the immediate past. Featuring Weekly Email Newsletters, Sketch Blogs and the Chicago departure of Tony Akins.

Contest of Challengers 77: Featured Guests

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:36:35 +0000

Okay, look, this is not our best episode, but it’s real. We talk about 2nd Printings, Art Baltazar, C2E2 and New Events. I deleted most of the s’mores argument and our Happy Endings analysis, but I know I missed editing out an inappropriate joke in there.

Contest of Challengers 76: The Second One First

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 03:30:38 +0000

Featuring more listener questions; the collapse of Tundra; Captain America’s fake brother; and, the detailed answer to one of the most asked questions in the store… why do we dress like we do at Challengers?

Contest of Challengers 75: The Next

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 08:14:00 +0000

It’s the longest CoC episode, by far! It’s a huge look back to a full year’s worth of comic and graphic novel sales. And gushing over Eliza Frye, Sarah Becan and Jess Godwin. Happy New Year!

Contest of Challengers 74: Lost Kitty

Mon, 26 Dec 2011 21:19:01 +0000

A 'lost' episode from April 2011, featuring Tom Kelly & John Siuntres. Recorded in a very noisy Challengers while a sick patron was coughing loudly throughout the night. The coughing was all edited out but the remains are a bit choppy. It’s a good talk, but you have to work for it this week.

Contest of Challengers 73: Brain Tape

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 08:13:05 +0000

The countdown to Christmas sees the recap of recent events, a questioning of Marvel’s Astonishing line, the desire for custom t-shirts and a brief update on Achewood. Also, Stan Lee!

Contest of Challengers 72: Nerd Year's Eve

Sun, 11 Dec 2011 08:43:30 +0000

New Year’s Eve party @ Challengers! Hosted by singer Jess Godwin and writer Elliott Serrano. Food, drink, nerd burlesque, a ‘nerder’ mystery, and more. Details within. Also, 12 Rules for the Comics Industry (not ours) and we love Defenders #1.

Contest of Challengers 71: Completely Antithetical

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 15:00:48 +0000

Dal has completely redesigned the Challengers website, and he tells you why/how. We also talk recent #1 sales numbers and tell you all about why Patrick is annoyed with the local news media, as it relates to last week’s Lance Briggs event. Jerks.

Contest of Challengers 70: Man Hours

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 07:10:38 +0000

It feels like New Year’s already as it’s out with the old and in with the new. 2012 promises several new, ongoing events at Challengers, including Challengers Assemble/d, Comic Klatch, and the new Visual Field! And never be afraid of change or of revamping your website when it’s purpose changes. This week’s music by Joe Jackson and E’Nuff Z’Nuff.

Contest of Challengers 69: Your Apocalypse

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 09:19:03 +0000

Two distinct hales of one episode, complete with a musical intermission. In half one, Patrick and Dal go over their January orders and lament the sheer magnitude (Pop! Pop!) of February. And in part 2, a special guest joins them both AND ComiXology.

Contest of Challengers 68: Out of the Box

Sun, 13 Nov 2011 06:02:23 +0000

If money was no object, what would Challengers look like? We also discuss Holiday Sales, a possible New Year’s Eve party, actual sales numbers for Avenging Spider-Man #1 and the New DC 52 collection announcements. Bonus song: Animetal USA sings “Space Battleship Yamato”

Contest of Challengers 67: +1

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 05:49:52 +0000

This episode Patrick and Dal talk about their hiring practices and what they expect from their employees. And who better to help out with this discussion than Samantha Challenger! That’s right, you get 3, count ‘em THREE, Challengers in one episode! Total bargain deluxe.

Contest of Challengers 66: Human Voices

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 07:39:52 +0000

Lights; music; commerce! The boys talk about WHY they do events and how much thought goes into their execution. That leads into a discussion of Halloween events and then Dal explains the new Challengers Touch Screen Interface. Also, Tumblr!

Contest of Challengers 65: High-Tech Episode

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 07:31:55 +0000

128 tracks of recording quality and 127 of them are Dal! We’re back and in a brand new studio! We talk about what we expect from The Rogues Gallery, we introduce Ex Libris Challengers, and we go over the first month of Challengers Unlimited. And then we discuss Newsarama’s Top Ten stories from the New York Comic Con (http://www.newsarama.com/comics/10-new-york-comic-con-news-items-111017.html) and end the episode looking at Month 2 of the New DCU.

Contest of Challengers 64: Value-Added Proposition

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 13:56:00 +0000

Say, did you ever wonder if comic retailers overreact to things? And, we love you SO much... we recoded this episode twice!

Contest of Challengers 63: #24HCD

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 16:36:00 +0000

This episode goes from the current 24 Hour Comics Day all the way back to the lost 3rd episode of CoC. With a bonus lost snippet added in.

Conetst of Challengers 62: Antipluralization

Sun, 18 Sep 2011 21:44:51 +0000

What are publishers currently doing right? What should you NOT do when opening a comic shop? And SHOULD Challengers carry more toys?

Contest of Challengers 61: Oz-mosis

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 03:22:03 +0000

So, how did the first week of New DCU titles sell? And could we have sold more? We also talk some Skottie Young and more. And Big Daddy Cool starts us off this week.

Contest of Challengers 60: The Window to our Windows

Sun, 04 Sep 2011 06:17:16 +0000

Yet another new Challengers plan for the future. Or, how you can win $3500.00 worth of new comics. And we talk about other stuff, too, but the $3500.00 is front and center.

Contest of Challengers 59: (un)Limited

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 05:47:39 +0000

Book clubs, shuffled art exhibits and Tardis cakes are discussed as we also reveal all the details and reasoning of what will forever be known as... Challengers Unlimited.

Contest of Challengers 58: Keepin' It P.S.

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 07:05:42 +0000

Events, recent past and future. A call to Jimmy PS Hayes. And how indy creators can help us notice their books.

Contest of Challengers 57: Buying A House For Your Second House

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 04:13:16 +0000

Well, they can’t ALL be winners.

Contest of Challengers 56: Wordplay

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 16:58:27 +0000

Post-San Diego. Brazilian Art Books. Spider-Man Day. Season One books. Amazing #669 Variant. And Kofi Kingston. I also almost called this episode, “Swoonin’ for Cloonan.”

Contest of Challengers 55: Kidding On The Square

Sun, 24 Jul 2011 03:55:29 +0000

We’re not in San Diego; we’re melting in Chicago. We love “One Soul.” We mock Rupert Murdoch. But do we have a moral imperative to protect you from yourself?

Contest of Challengers 54: Fit for Reinvention

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 05:47:01 +0000

Patrick cleans out his basement and finds a bunch of stuff he didn’t even know he had. So he describes it. Dal talks about Marvel’s ‘New Store Initiative.’ And they both recap a ‘state of Chicago comics retail’ night they had this week w/ a fellow retailer.

Contest of Challengers 53: Fandom = Vices

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 21:55:00 +0000

After a 2+ week break, Patrick and Dal realize they actually miss doing this show. So they talk... about Stuart Immonen and The Rogues Gallery, comic store fieldtrips, and why Dal is giving up super-hero comics for July.

Contest of Challengers 52: American Progress

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 00:05:00 +0000

Patrick was at the Summit City ComicCon while Dal was at the store hosting Around Comics. Ryan Browne and his awesome new comic "BLAST FURNACE: Recreational Thief" was at both! How is that even possible? Progress. American progress.

Contest of Challengers 51: 52 Pick-Up

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 23:42:23 +0000

Oh come on, you KNOW what this one is all about. One thing. Well, 52 new things out of one thing.

Contest of Challengers 50: Human Bondage Den

Tue, 31 May 2011 00:23:10 +0000

Hey ho, strike one; last one in's a son of a gun. Hey ho, strike two; can't fight here, this is the war room.
So kiss me quickly; who'll oblige? Oh come along now, don't be shy. Don't be all surface; no insides. Oh, no.
You've got to stop your grumbling, and all that human bondage den. So swear the heat in baby, no neck ties.

Contest of Challengers 2.16: Macho Madness

Wed, 25 May 2011 14:34:00 +0000

The Challengers website has been streamlined. Comic shop employees make terrible Club Members. Macho Man Randy Savage died (sad). Our pal JVO wrote a book. I guess this episode description is just a string of sentences. Also, that ‘peasant joke’ is actually about lepers and is from an MST3K Hercules movie. “The lepers are revolting!” “I’ll say!”

Contest of Challengers 2.15: Revolution Calling

Wed, 18 May 2011 05:53:00 +0000

Youth in Revolt! Party without books! Margaritas! Whose opinion do you really want? What makes a store event good? Are these even the right topics for this week’s episode? I can’t remember! I guess we’ll all find out together! Also, I completely forgot Dal’s episode title (it’s in there somewhere), so I had to pick something else. Sorry, Dal.

Contest of Challengers 2.14: FCBDelicious

Sun, 08 May 2011 05:48:06 +0000

Free Comic Book Day 2011 was amazing. And here we tell you why.

Contest of Challengers 2.13: The Gordian Knot

Wed, 04 May 2011 05:08:00 +0000

How do you know where to find the Graphic Novels you’re looking for at Challengers? Dal proposes a new racking system and he and Patrick debate its merits. It’s a question without a complete answer and it is beaten to death in a frank and open discussion. And the return of the completely random post-podcast segments!

Contest of Challengers 2.12: Global Warning

Sun, 24 Apr 2011 05:09:00 +0000

Ha! I thought this was episode 13. We’ve had 2 ‘lost’ episodes in recent weeks, so my internal numbering is off. Anyway, this whole episode gets away from us and becomes darker than we planned. What started as a “we’re not complaining, but…” episode, turns into an hour of outright publisher bashing. But, man do I feel better!

Contest of Challengers 1.32: Wolves at the Door

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 06:52:00 +0000

It’s an all-podcast crossover episode with Contest of Challengers, Comics Slumber Party, Comic Geek Speak and Word Balloon all represented! So let’s go back to Season 1 numbering as we talk to Becky Cloonan.

Contest of Challengers 2.11: Scare City

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 05:05:13 +0000

Contest of Challengers 2.10: The Hammer

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 07:13:00 +0000

This episode is called “The Hammer” for reasons that were edited out. But the name stuck. What you DO get is a C2E2 wrap-up, reasons why Becky Cloonan is pretty f’n awesome and the promised listener mail answers! Buckle up; it’s a long one!

Contest of Challengers 2.9: Welllllll, it's a Big Show

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 01:37:00 +0000

We don’t mean it to, but this episode is chock full of our C2E2 thoughts, set-up, plans and goals. Not all at once, mind you, we spread it out for you. And Dal has some pretty great thoughts about the way digital comics should be made. See you at C2E2!

Contest of Challengers 2.8: Fashion Show

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:18:40 +0000

Like a new line of clothing on the runway, this week Patrick and Dal trot out a list of reasons why they do/don't do the things they do/don't do. Less industry wide/more of a Challengers-specific focus. And the answer to the Riddle of the Ages!

Contest of Challengers 2.7: Ad-diversity

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 05:41:42 +0000

Oh man, this one has it all—and LESS! We go from having nothing to talk about to having TOO much to talk about in the span of an hour. We get mad at each other and tensions rise, but we work thru it because we are pros. PROS! Here’s a brief rundown: MSU’s Comic & Visual Narrative class; the end of DC’s First Wave line leads into Dal’s ultimate super-hero publishing plans; Marvel’s ‘new’ direction for the Marvel Adventures line; more on Ted Adams' Keynote Address from the 2011 ComicsPRO Conference; our secret shopper grade, and less… because we lost our first 5 or so minutes, including Patrick’s first-ever attempt at a disclaimer. Dal says it all (at 24 minutes and 9 seconds in), “God, this one’s gonna be a winner.”

Contest of Challengers 2.6: Toys Story

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 06:11:00 +0000

This week on the ART OF WRESTLING podcast, host and pro-wrestling icon COLT CABANA talks about support for the show and the possibility of a live recording in the spring. Elsewhere, Dal’s mind completely freezes and there is talk of Border’s effect on the current comic-buying climate. And... a bonus phone call from Jimmy P$ Hayes!

Contest of Challengers 2.5: Fearpoint

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 05:45:00 +0000

Man, are we on a roll! So much so that for the second time in 2011 we've had to increase our monthly podcast storage memory to accommodate our more-than-regular schedule! This one is a little shorter as we've already hit you with a Season 1 episode this week, but there's always a little something worth talking about in comics! Featuring Fear Itself vs. Flashpoint and a brief analysis on trying to sell 33 million convention tickets.

Contest of Challengers 1.31

Sun, 06 Feb 2011 07:17:20 +0000

What? Season 1 numbering? What's going on?!? It's the return to the interview format (and thus Season 1 numbering) as Patrick happily welcomes Samantha LaFountain to Challengers! What gets a 9-year old girl from the wilds of rural New Jersey interested in comics? Where do you even get comics in rural New Jersey? These questions and many, many others are answered in our giggliest episode to date!

Contest of Challengers 2.4: Variant Diversity

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 04:30:00 +0000

This week, the microphone faces Dal so Patrick is a mere echo! We had to wait a full day to post this, our 5^th CoC in as many weeks, because we went over our monthly-allotted storage space w/ Libsyn, but it’s not our fault; comics never stand still, baby! Also, “insert show content here.” Ha! That was a joke! We actually talk about not having to like comics, but WANTING to, the Creators Front for Diversity in Comics, and why we don't stock variant covers anymore.

Contest of Challengers 2.3: Isocahedral Decoding

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 08:48:00 +0000

Hey kids, remember a thing called the Comics Code Authority? Well, it's dead and we can't seem to care. This week we talk about rating systems for comics, Once A Week (a new internet resource of creator-owned comic information), isocahedral comics, and so very much more. Also, Lady Gaga and Savage Dragon! Um, not "Lady Gaga AND Savage Dragon." Lady Gaga and also Savage Dragon.

Contest of Challengers 2.2: The 6th Gallery

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 07:39:00 +0000

Cullen Bunn. Brian Hurtt. The Sixth Gun. A thourough and comprehensive discussion on art and art galleries.

Contest of Challengers 2.1: Yesterday and Tomorrow

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 01:42:00 +0000

We're back in less than a week--someone call Guinness! The world of comic book publishing never slows down, and neither does the news that comes out of it. This episode Patrick and W. Dal talk about the editorial hierarchy at Marvel; all of the worthy candidates for 2 ComicsPRO industry awards; the return of letter columns, and more. There is also a tribute to Y&T bassist Phil Kennemore, dueling Michael Caine impressions and Verizon iPhone talk in a record 20 minutes of after-podcast talk. Oh, you’ll know when you’ve listened too long.

Contest of Challengers 2.0: Return

Tue, 04 Jan 2011 17:56:00 +0000

New Season! New Format! It's 2.0, baby, and in this pilot episode, Patrick and W. Dal talk about getting a breather on Wednesday mornings, the viability of all-ages material in the direct market, the Architects, red rage and so much more. Welcome back to the podcast you only thought you missed. We're here to prove otherwise!

Contest of Challengers 1.30: Off The Rails

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 04:37:00 +0000

This episode, the recording, editing and posting, was the most time-consuming experience I have had yet with Contest of Challengers. So much so that this is a completely different version that the one I just spent an extra hour re-editing. As a result, I have nothing else to say here.

Contest of Challengers 1.29: I Love You AND We've Chosen Comics

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 00:14:00 +0000

Triple trouble on this episode of Challengers, as Dal talks with comics couple Stien and Christian all about their history, their comics... and the horror of Rashida Jones' comic book.

Contest of Challengers 1.28: The Immortal Admiral

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 20:29:00 +0000

Onrie Kompan joins Patrick this episode to tell all about the unbeatable warrior, Yi Soon Shin, to talk about digital devices, the Amazing Spider-Man and how an electronic community will never replace a physical, brick and mortar one. At least we HOPE so... Also, as an added bonus, there's background noise (at the beginning)! Yes! The sounds of a busy comic store on a Wednesday. You're welcome!

Contest of Challengers Ep. 027: Original Pirate Material

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 23:47:00 +0000

Dal talks to Jon M. about Doctor Who, The Return of Bruce Wayne, Wonder Woman #600 and other things all obtained legally.

Contest of Challengers 1.26: The Morrison Manister

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 23:29:00 +0000

Patrick is joined by Challenger-in-training KENT FREMON. Kent loves Grant Morrison's Batman and he's not afraid to tell you about it. And Seaguy. And even some non-Morrison works, like Tales Designed to Thrizzle are discussed! And cartoons. Kent is also forced at virtual gunpoint to recommend something for you all to read. And he does. Good show, Kent!

Contest of Challengers Ep. 025: The Amazing Hellblazer

Mon, 24 May 2010 22:14:00 +0000

This time out, Dal talks with RYAN VOSS about Amazing Spider-Man, John Constantine: Hellblazer, Amazing Spider-Man, Scalped, and Amazing Spider-Man again. BONUS: Amazing Spider-Man discussion.

Contest of Challengers 1.24: P.S. = Put Succinctly

Mon, 10 May 2010 22:33:00 +0000

Everything old is new again this week as we welcome Jimmy PS Hayes to not only Contest of Challengers, but to Challengers in general! Jimmy joins Patrick to discuss the figure-four leg-lock, paying people back, Robert Kirkman, the difference between the comics you read as a kid and the comics you want to own now, and Tom DeFalco. They also do a quick C2E2 wrap-up and Patrick does a horrible impression of a former comic publisher. Featuring W. Dal Bush and James Galinski.

Contest of Challengers 1.23: Black Metal Comics

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 05:56:00 +0000

Grant Craig joins Patrick for Episode 23: "Black Metal Comics" in which the subject of 'black metal comics' never comes up. Comics, sure, and a whole lot of music talk (some of it related to black metal but most geographically located in the Raleigh/Chapel Hill areas). And while this is certainly a long one, Grant has a great ability to take Patrick's music segues and bring them back around to comics while keep the intened point. Way to go, Grant! I also feel the need to point out that my spellcheck is disabled and I feel completely lost without it. So any spelling mistakes right here are the result of faulty technology and a grown man's terrible inability to spell. Guest starring W. Dal Bush and Mike Lee!

Contest of Challengers 1.22: Lord Farcus

Sat, 06 Feb 2010 19:31:00 +0000

Lord Farcus? Well, our guest this week is MARCUS FOSTER, but we never call him Lord Farcus. I almost called this episode "Bananas Foster" but I don't call him that, either. Anyway, join us as Patrick mumbles more than ever while he completely ruins the surprises of "Blackest Night" in a conversation where all the really good bits were cut out because we both name too many names. Yes, you get the second-rate version of the Marcus Foster interview right here! Also, there are sound effects! Be worried.

Contest of Challengers - Episode 21: 1100 Years Later

Sun, 31 Jan 2010 22:00:00 +0000

Miss us? Contest of Challengers is back, and this time we're talking with our own Christina Challenger about what she's reading and what she's looking forward to reading. Also, the somewhat-declining physique of David Boreanez. You totally missed us!

Contest of Challengers - Episode 20

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 12:21:00 +0000

It's Christmas Eve Eve and we're in the middle of our 30-hours straight Christmas Crisis event. Poor Donald Cardenas just wanted to pick up his weekly comics and suddenly he's talking to BOTH Patrick & Dal about older brothers who read comics, the Wolverine and plenty more! And in an effort to get this out quick, NO EDITING!

Contest of Challengers - Episode 19

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 01:43:00 +0000

Listener mail! Sort of! This episode, Dal responds to questions submitted through the Challengers website. Well, "responds". It's more like "digresses endlessly and misses the point", but, you know...

Contest of Challengers Ep. 018: Psychoschizophrenia

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 20:30:00 +0000

It's a disturbingly egocentric episode this time, as Patrick interviews… Patrick…? Surprisingly, he has a lot to tell himself as he came prepared with a list of questions and did not try to answer them ahead of time. And dig this… NO rambling! And for the first time, thanks to our pal Bob Burns of "The Divorce Gun," we have a theme!

Contest of Challengers 1.17: Keep it in the Family

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 19:12:00 +0000

We keep it in the family this week as Patrick talks to the man who got him interested in comic books in the first place, his brother George Brower! Yes, the former Rumble Brotheres reunite before your very ears! Find out what made George start reading comics, which comics and why in this trip down memory lane. George recounts what it was like to be the older brother while corrupting the mind of an innocent. Ahhh, good times.

Contest of Challengers 1.16: steveBay

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:06:00 +0000

Got too many comics? Patrick talks to Steve Davich about selling your comics on eBay! Is it fun? Is it worth it? Will you make money? Steve tells all! They also talk about what got them reading in the first place and both men ramble and digress as much as you'd expect, even without the addition of alcohol. Yes, really.

Contest of Challengers - Episode 15

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:08:00 +0000

Patrick talks to Frank Davis about what makes a writer worth following and which current writers have lost their 'all access' cards with Frank and why. It's almost all writers this week, folks, and Frank is okay with that.

Contest of Challengers 1.14: Art Wars

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 21:42:00 +0000

This week Patrick & W. Dal talk about comic book art; why they love it, what they look for and the reasons that led them to hold a Comic Art Show and Sale. Your eyes will well up as each of them recall a specific page of art from their past and they discuss it as if it were a fragile, wounded butterfly that has been gently captured and then run thru with a push pin placing it forever on display.

Contest of Challengers - Episode 13

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 23:25:00 +0000

This week, Dal talks to Bud Sims about comics and carving, as this interview was conducted during day two of our 2009 Halloween Spooktacular. Thus, expect a slightly distracted couple of talkers.

Contest of Challengers - Episode 12

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 19:22:00 +0000

This week we deviate from our weekly interviews and present a selection of excerpts from our ChallengeJuniors recordings. ChallengeJuniors is our all-ages read-along group that meets one Saturday a month. For it we gather a cast of friends and record all the dialogue of that month's chosen book. Then we play that back in the store as everyone follows along in their books. We have a lot of fun and hopefully it shows.

Contest of Challengers - Episode 11

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0000

In an episode actually recorded in the waning hours of 24 Hour Comic Day, Patrick talks to Jose Mirque about other countries popular comic books, the legitimacy of Doctor Voodoo's degree (*psst* he's a Doctor of Psychology), the sheer number of Hulks and Hulk-related characters and much more.

Contest of Challengers 1.10: 24 Hour Comic Book Day 2009

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 20:27:00 +0000

Dal and Patrick take turns talking to Seamus Burke, Dan Carroll and Chris Burnham, three of our brave 24 Hour Comic Day competitors. What were their goals, ideas and reasons behind such madness? And did they succeed? Listen on!

Contest of Challengers - Episode 10b

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 05:55:00 +0000

The second of several episodes recorded during 24 Hour Comic Book Day 2009, this time Dal talks to participant Dan Carroll.

Contest of Challengers - Episode 10a

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 02:18:00 +0000

The first of several episodes recorded during 24 Hour Comic Book Day 2009, this time Dal talks to participant Seamus Burke of OhGoodie.net.

Contest of Challengers - Episode 9

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 23:36:00 +0000

This week Dal talks to Joe Askins about a whole heap of stuff, including (but not limited to) Batman & Robin, Dark Avengers/X-Men: Utopia, Blackest Night, and pretty much the whole last month's worth of books that Joe just got around to reading.

Contest of Challengers - Episode 8

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 23:06:00 +0000

This week Patrick talks to David Lyons about the recent business dealings of both Marvel and DC, Strange Tales, and a LOT more in this record long 25-minute conversation.

Contest of Challengers Ep. 7 - Dal talks to Chris Revekant

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 21:58:00 +0000

This week, Dal talks to Chris Revekant in a DOUBLE-SIZED Contest of Challengers. Topics include Invincible Iron Man, Dark Reign, Blackest Night and, of course, Superboy and the Ravers. Of course.

Contest of Challengers Ep. 6 - Patrick talks to Mike Hodgin and Bob Milausnic

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 00:20:00 +0000

This week, Patrick talks to local musician Mike Hodgin about comics, some starring Dick Grayson, some Mike doesn't read.

Contest of Challengers Ep. 5 - Dal talks to Brian Mead

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 00:29:00 +0000

This week, Dal talks to Brian Mead about James Jean, Wednesday Comics and how to make an awesome/unprofitable James Bond movie.

Contest of Challengers Ep. 4 - Patrick talks to Chris Sunzere

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 19:17:00 +0000

Patrick talks to Challengers club member Christopher Sunzere about Green Lantern/Blackest Night, Amazing Spider-Man and Ultimate Spider-Man.

Contest of Challengers Ep. 3 - Dal talks to Vincent Chung

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:12:00 +0000

This week, Dal talks to Vincent Chung about Walking Dead. BONUS: Ashly Challenger and Real Sounds Of Comic Retail!

Contest of Challengers Ep. 2 - Patrick talks to Luke Smarto

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 18:00:00 +0000

This week, Patrick talks to Luke Smarto about this year's Chicago Comic-Con, Luke's new book "Pillow Fight," Wednesday Comics and why they each say, "um" or "ahh" to fill the conversational pauses.

Contest of Challengers Ep. 1 - Dal talks to Patrick

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 20:44:00 +0000

This week, Dal talks to Patrick Brower about the comics he read that week. Topics include Amazing Spider-Man #600, Incredible Hulk #600 and Invincible #64.