Icon Presents

Andrew Rodriguez: Arcstream, the Hachette Deal, and What's Next for the Rippaverse | Icon Presents

Andrew Rodriguez  @CaffeinatedWolfe  is back on Icon Presents — and this time the Rippaverse has some serious news to share. Andrew, Creative Manager and Lead Editor at the Rippaverse  @Rippaverse  returns to break down everything that's been happening since we last spoke: the success of Blue Shift (the origin story for his speedster character Zephyr), the full release of Arcstream False Start, and the story behind why they renamed the project from Blue Shift to Arcstream to better connect with a shonen manga audience. It's a case study in knowing your audience and not being afraid to make a bold call for the right reasons. Then there's the big one: the Rippaverse has landed a distribution deal with Hachette Book Group — one of the largest book distributors in the world — opening the door to big box retailers and international markets. Andrew breaks down what that actually means for an independent comic publisher, why a deal like this is almost unheard of for a company as young as the Rippaverse, and how platforms like Ripasend are creating real pathways for independent creators that didn't exist before. We also get into the state of DC under James Gunn (cautious optimism, with receipts), the ongoing Spider-Man debate (Garfield vs. Maguire vs. Holland — Andrew makes his case), the upcoming Exclave crossover event, and the Great War of Separation that ties the entire Rippaverse universe together. Andrew closes with a direct message to independent creatives: start writing, start publishing, and stop waiting for permission. The tools are there — platforms like Rippasend and a deal with Hachette prove the pipeline now exists. Also mentioned: Tales from Twisted Ravens (a young readers book benefiting comics for kids in hospitals), Andrew's Harry Potter deep-dive YouTube channel Room of Requirement, and upcoming Rippaverse animation projects with some exciting voice actor names in the mix. 📍 Follow Andrew Rodriguez and the Rippaverse for new releases and events 🎙️ Check out Ripasend for independent comic stories from creators like Andrew 🌐 iconpresentspodcast.com for more interviews with independent musicians, comic creators, writers, and filmmakers Like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations with the creatives building something out of nothing.  @youngrippa59  TIMESTAMPS 0:00 – Intro + welcome back Andrew Rodriguez 2:30 – Andrew's role: Creative Manager and Lead Editor at the Rippaverse 5:00 – Zephyr: creating the Rippaverse's first solo speedster character 8:00 – Blue Shift: the origin story and fan response 11:00 – Blue Shift → Arcstream: the name change decision explained 15:00 – Appealing to a shonen/manga audience 18:30 – The Hachette Book Group deal: what it means for indie comics 22:00 – Getting independent comics into big box retailers and international markets 25:30 – How rare is this deal for a young company? 28:00 – The Rippaverse universe: the Great War of Separation explained 32:00 – The Exclave crossover event and Isom's role 35:00 – DC under James Gunn: Superman, Supergirl, and cautious optimism 39:00 – The Spider-Man debate: Garfield vs. Maguire vs. Holland 44:00 – The Gwen Stacy scene and why Garfield's chemistry hits different 47:00 – Advice for independent creatives: write, publish, build your name 50:00 – Ripasend: the platform connecting indie creators to real distribution 53:00 – Tales from Twisted Ravens: comics for kids in hospitals 55:00 – Room of Requirement: Andrew's Harry Potter YouTube channel 57:00 – Upcoming Rippaverse animation projects and voice actor news 59:00 – Where to find Andrew and the Rippaverse

A look into Daughters Revenge and More with Jay David

Today we sit down with Jay David the creator of the new pirate story titled "Daughters Revenge" and  follow his journey that has caused him to have the title of the Forest Gump of the internet. Finding himself in unexpected situations, his attitude of ceasing each opportunity you're presented with makes Jays story one of charm and inspiration. 

Andrew Rodriguez Writing Debut "Blue Shift" | Icon Presents Podcast

In this episode of Icon Presents, Antwon Haynes sits down with Andrew Rodriguez, creative manager and rising writer at Rippaverse Comics, to talk about his debut project — Blue Shift Tryouts. Andrew introduces us to Zephyr Arlen, a super-powered teen navigating school, family secrets, and identity in the world of Blue Shift. He shares how his experience in retail taught him to understand what audiences want, and how that’s shaped his storytelling philosophy. They dive into the importance of creating younger, relatable heroes to engage the next generation of readers, and why manga's influence is worth studying. He also opens up about the explosive launch of Rippaverse the power of community, and how Blue Shift might become a central part of the universe if fans respond. Whether you're a comics fan, creator, or someone thinking about jumping into storytelling, this episode highlights the power of new voices and fresh stories in indie publishing.

How Irene Strychalski Built Fiendish — A Dark Fantasy World of Her Own

In this episode of Icon Presents, Antwon Haynes sits down with artist and storyteller Irene Strachoski, creator of the independent comic series Fiendish. Known for her detailed world-building and sharp visual storytelling, Irene shares how she went from working on Archer to creating a deeply immersive fantasy epic—complete with original languages, layered character arcs, and dark, myth-inspired themes. Irene opens up about the creative freedom and financial challenges of indie publishing, the thought process behind designing Fiendish’s cast of characters, and how she built the constructed language Nanasa. She also talks about the future of Fiendish—including the possibility of an anime adaptation—and gives her honest take on AI in art, calling for transparency and preserving the value of human creativity. Whether you're a comic creator, world-builder, or just love fantasy done right, this episode offers deep insight into the process and passion behind independent storytelling.

Fahim Fazli on Becoming the Face of Hope — His Journey to Superman and Beyond

In this powerful episode of Icon Presents, Antwon Haynes interviews actor, author, and former U.S. military interpreter Fahim Fazli. Born in Afghanistan, Fahim shares the extraordinary path that led him from escaping war to building a life in America as a working actor and patriot. Fahim opens up about his decision to join the U.S. Marines as a translator after 9/11, his struggles and perseverance in Hollywood, and his roles in major films like Iron Man and Superman. He also reflects on fatherhood, personal growth, and his desire to build bridges between cultures through storytelling. This conversation explores resilience, gratitude, and the belief that even after unimaginable loss, a meaningful life can be built through service, creativity, and hope. Fahim’s book Fahim Speaks is available now, and his latest project, The Face of Hope, is currently in development.

SDCC 2025 Cliff Cramp

Amazing Painter Cliff Cramp shares his journey as a artist and some of his favorite pieces from #starwars #lordoftherings #lotr and more. Checkout his work at www.cliffcramp.com

Drawing Power: Tehani Farr on Identity, Impact & Changing the Game

In this episode of Icon Presents, host Antwon Haynes sits down with Mexican visual artist Tehani Farr, whose powerful work has been featured on over 30 comic book covers — including collaborations with Stranger Comics and actor Sebastian Aguirre.
Tehani shares her experience breaking into the industry, being underestimated early in her career, and how she proved herself through resilience and raw talent. From the show floor at San Diego Comic-Con to her own art studio, she reflects on the balance between creativity, personal identity, and mental wellness.
They also dive into her artistic influences, her fascination with darker character themes, and her advice to aspiring artists: prioritize your well-being and keep creating, no matter the noise.

Talking Movies, Batman & More with Indie film maker Epic Mike

making movies, Inspiring films, MCU movies and Batman. It was a great look into his passions and his first experience making movies and seeing something that he created in production. If you are a aspiring film maker, or just someone who loves the creative journey you will enjoy this episode of the Icon Presents Podcast.

Chad Larsson EXPOSES the Story Behind Deathshroud

For the first time ever, Chad Larson, creator of the explosive new comic Deathshroud, opens up about the intense road to launch — including a behind-the-scenes cancellation attempt aimed at him and legendary comic artist Caanan White. Chad breaks his silence on the controversy, shares what inspired Deathshroud’s gritty supernatural world, and gives fans an exclusive look at the passion, pain, and persistence it took to bring this project to life. Deathshroud is available now for preorder exclusively at rippasend.com.

Tyron GT Performs “Healing” Live in Studio | Icon Presents Podcast

In this heartfelt episode of Icon Presents, host Antwon Haynes welcomes singer-songwriter Tyron GT for an inspiring conversation about purpose, healing, and the power of authentic music. Tyron shares the emotional story behind his new project, "Healing," inspired by a close friend’s brain tumor diagnosis. From growing up singing in a children’s choir to crafting genre-blending R&B and pop, Tyron opens up about his musical journey, artistic struggles, and his mission to create timeless music that speaks to the soul. They dive into influences ranging from John P. Kee to Taylor Swift, the reality of writer’s block, and the importance of self-reflection and spiritual grounding in the creative process. Featuring a live in-studio performance Real talk about staying true in an industry full of noise For artists, dreamers, and anyone seeking healing through sound Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Music Follow Tyron GT on all platforms to stay connected  @tyrongt