Tom Racine’s latest Tall Tale Radio podcast episode is now available. Head over to GoComics and give it a listen. In this episode:
Well, it’s not exactly “So Long and Thanks for All the Fish,” but it IS time for a break.
After nearly six years and 197 episodes, and two previous years and 70 episodes of “Comics Coast to Coast,” I’m taking some time off from podcasting. There are myriad reasons, of course…some personal, some professional, some just “overwhelmed” related. In a nutshell, as anyone with kids and a full time job will tell you, life gets in the way of creative endeavors. I’ve managed to work the podcast into my life, but I find I need those 10-15 hours a week back for myself. I’m trying to get a voice over career launched, trying to put together a fund-raising project for my stroke-stricken brother Don, and a couple of other creative endeavors as well. Something had to give.
I’ve loved my time with this podcast, and I’m not closing the door completely. The Reuben Awards are in San Diego at the end of May, and there’s always San Diego Comic Con to cover. Both of those will probably be mostly video in nature, but I’ll be keeping my hand in the game that way. And I’ll be at the great Kenosha Festival of Cartooning in September. And of course, comics have always been a huge part of my life as a fan and as a pro, so they ain’t going anywhere, either. I’ll still be out there pimpin’ my friends and colleagues and spreading the word.
Tall Tale Radio has opened all sorts of doors for me and as with all good things, it’s the people I’ve met and the relationships I’ve forged that will be the most lasting thing. If and when I return, I’d like to expand the scope of TTR, or even start up a new, broader podcast. Maybe this fall…stay tuned.
I thank you all for listening, I thank GoComics and the amazing John Glynn for his unwavering support in my little slice of the podcast universe, and I thank all my guests for putting up with nerdy questions about paper and ink nibs.
In the meantime, remember for your podcasting/comics/geek fix, there’s the great Comics Coast to Coast, TGT Media with Kurt Sasso, the Webcomics Alliance, and my buds over at The Geek League of America. I wouldn’t be surprised if I showed up on some of those podcasts maybe in the future…it’s SOOO much easier to be a guest and just spout off without the hours of research! And, as always, a huge thanks to the invaluable and amazing Irma Eriksson of “Imy.” Without her, there’s no site, among other things. Be sure to read her comic!
See ya out there in the funny pages/websites/iPads.
Sad news, but understandable. I probably listened to 90+% of those podcasts. Tom’s funny, entertaining, and asks great questions. I think he’s a giant of the comics industry. He’s more important than most cartoonists, in the same way media figures are more important than most politicians. We’re losing the Jay Leno of comic strips. But he deserves a break. Well done Tom Racine. Come back any time.
Tom,
Take car of yourself. If you find yourself needing any perks for your brothers fundraising project be sure to let us know.
Are you saying I’m fat? 🙂 Thank you so much for your comments, boys. I can’t agree with being more important than anyone, but I’m glad I’ve been able to bring the stories and art of so many wonderful artists out into the light. I remember as a kid just begging to find magazine or newspaper articles about ANY cartoonist…it was so hard to find anyone talking about the craft. It’s a lot easier now, of course, but I’m happy that if someone is searching for that sort of information, they about 197 hours of stuff to listen to. 🙂
Tom,
I can’t say thank you enough for your wonderful podcast! There must be “Digital” grooves worn into my ipod from me listening to your show. It was professional, fun, informative and best of all, it felt like you were sitting down with a couple of friends talking comics and art. I’m a Dad just like you and I get up 5:00 every day to work on my webcomic so I understand and appreciate your decision.
Take care & Thank you!
Danny Fry
Thanks for all your hard work, Tom. I’ll miss your podcast for sure…it was a part of my work week! All the best for what comes next.
Tom,
I’m shocked and saddened ? even though it’s just a hiatus. Ever since I decided to get back into being a cartoonist seven years ago your podcasts have been a HUGE influence on me. I remember when I first discovered them. I would listen over and over to them trying to glean any bit of insight I could get to better understand the business. Your podcasts have served a great purpose for so many. You and your guests painted a picture of what being a cartoonist is like ? and I am unwaveringly dedicated to pursuing that dream. Thank you for your professionalism and humor. Your podcasts have always been top notch and you will be missed while you’re away. Guess I’ll be delving into the archives to get my occasional TTF fix.
I understand very well where you are coming from with needing to take a break. Having a full-time career, being a husband and a dad are top priorities. Add to that, your love and desire to help your brother ? clearly you are making the right decision. I’m sure it isn’t easy to walk away ? even if it’s just for a short time. You definitely don’t need it, but you have my respect.
As others have said, you are well-deserving of a break. I hope it all works out well for you and Don. I look forward to your return, whenever you are ready.
BTW, the ad agency I work for regularly hires voice talent and I will definitely keep you on my list for upcoming projects if you are interested.
Once again, thank you so much for all you have given.
Jeff Payden
So what am I going to listen to while I’m inking?! Tom, you know I’m a big fan and always have been! Enjoy your break, my friend, but hurry back!
MT
Sure, NOW you people pipe up. 😉 No, I’ve always had great support inside the industry especially…it’s always been incredibly gratifying to know that other artists were getting something out of what I was doing. We have that in common…we’re all fascinated by the process and how others do it. Cartoonists and artists are always so willing to learn, to talk technique, tools, and styles. If anything, it’s just fired up the need in me to create more of my own stuff. I wish I could podcast or do radio full time and have the time to do my own creative work. But alas, as we all know, there are only so many hours in a day and so much sleep we can afford to lose. 😉
Thank you all for your kind words. I know that many of these interviews can be listened to many times; I’ve been quite privileged to talk to so many amazing artists.
Jokes aside there aren’t too many media outlets knocking my door down to get me to talk about what I do for a living so when one goes by the wayside I’m left to talk to myself -even more. Think Kate Blanchett w/ a Southern accent. I’d wish you well in your v.o. pursuits but you’re a natural. And while you haven’t mentioned it I’m guessing the Padres were too stupid to put you in the booth. Let me guess: front office guy had a nephew who’s voice only cracks on extra base hits? Don’t give up on that. Too cool a gig not to keep trying. -All good things. ML
Well that’s a real bummer.
What the what!!
I love you and Comics Coast To Coast loves you. You are always welcome on the show.
Don’t know what else to say. Tom is the best!!
As sad as I am to hear – or I guess not hear – you in my podcast feed for a while, I’m sure I speak for many others when I say I completely understand how life and career sometimes “get in the way” and you have to reshuffle priorities. Thanks for inspiring all of us to both get behind the drawing board and get behind the mic. We’d love to have you back on Comics Coast to Coast soon too. Maybe a post Reuben wrap-up guest spot?
If I’m ever in California, I’m taking you (and John Sanford) out for a glass of scotch.
Cheers!
You do not want a Scotch Fueled John Sanford!
Or you do, depending on the situation.
I’d take a scotch-fueled Sanford over a gin-soaked Tatulli any day!