Data B.R.O.S. Inc.

Ooooooeeee you guys! 2025 was a DOOZY! From a complete meltdown of the formerly largest distributor in the industry, to the highest sales in years, and with all sorts of crazyness thrown in between, the B.R.O.S. check in on each other, their stores, and the state of the comics industry in this incredible episode.This episode and every episode of the Data B.R.O.S. is sponsored by Murphy's Apple Juice. Murphy's Apple Juice, it's the shape, not the taste, but it's also the taste...which is pretty danged good.The Data B.R.O.S. is also sponsored by The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington and Earth 519 Collectibles in London, Ontario, Canada (Universe 519).The Data B.R.O.S. are Django Bohren, Jeff Figley, and Brian Garside.The Data B.R.O.S. love you, but in a wholesome and respectful way that your mom would approve of, and which isn't at all creepy. Okay, the uninterrupted eye contact MAY be a little bit creepy, but you know what's not creepy? The hugs.It has come to our attention recently that the hugs ARE indeed creepy, and it's not so much the hugs, but the way the B.R.O. hands wander up your back and rest under your hoodie. Just typing this is actually making me a little heebied (of the Heebies and Jeebies).

In this special crossover episode, we’re hijacking a totally different show for a TakeB.R.O.ver of the Comics Industry Insiders Live live show!Join Django, Jeff, and Brian for the first 30 minutes of the show as they dive deep into the whirlwind that was Free Comic Book Day. Hear how The Comics Place in Bellingham, WA and Earth 519 in London, ON tackled the biggest day in comics in their own unique (and occasionally chaotic) ways.💥 What went right? 💭 What would we do differently next time? 🍎 And how did Murphy’s Apple Juice keep us refreshed through it all?From long lines to last-minute surprises, it's a behind-the-scenes look at the logistics, lessons, and laughter of FCBD at two very different shops. Whether you're a retailer, a fan, or just here for the data, there’s a juicy nugget in here for everyone.

Join Django and Jeff from The Comics Place in Bellingham, Washington, as they welcome rookie comic shop owner Brian Garside of Earth 519 Collectibles in London, Ontario, in Season 2, Episode 23 of The Data B.R.O.S.—aptly titled "Oops, I Shopped Myself"!In this fun and insightful episode, Brian shares his unexpected journey into comic retail, detailing how a series of happy accidents and spontaneous decisions led him to owning his very own comic store. Listen in as Django and Jeff dive into Brian’s experiences, challenges, and surprises as he navigates the comic retail world for the first time.From valuable tips for new and aspiring comic shop owners to humorous anecdotes that highlight the unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship, this episode is packed with relatable moments and practical advice. Discover how Brian's adventures with Earth 519 Collectibles are shaping his perspective on the industry, and pick up some handy insights along the way!Tune in to find out what happens when comic fandom and retail collide in the most delightful ways!Links from this episode:Earth 519The Comics PlaceComic Shop AssistantManage Comics

Get ready to set sail with Django and Jeff as regale Brian* with tales of their unforgettable voyage in Season 2, Episode 22 of The Data B.R.O.S.—aptly titled "Toy Boat"!In this exciting instalment, the crew dives deep into their recent adventure aboard Toy Boat, a unique and fun-filled gathering that mixes the thrill of toy retailing with the refreshing sea breeze. From networking with fellow retailers to navigating the waves of industry trends, Django and Jeff share their firsthand experiences, highlight key takeaways, and recount amusing anecdotes from their time on the high seas.Whether you're curious about what makes Toy Boat such a special event or you're looking for insights to enhance your comic shop’s operations, this episode delivers engaging stories, actionable business tips, and plenty of laughs along the way.Set your course, hoist the sails, and tune in—this episode is one podcast voyage you don't want to miss!*Apologies for Brian's audio this episode, his regular microphone was being difficult and he had to use a backup.Links from this episode:Toy Boat HighlightsComicon The CruiseEpisode Sponsor Shout-Outs:This week, our episode is brought to you by The Data B.R.O.S. Thanks for listening to Data B.R.O.S., and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and join us next week as we keep exploring all things comics, data, and the retail world!---Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff, Django and Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

***Please note, as pointed out in the intro, after recording the episode we realized we said "Skip Week" when we meant "Fifth Week", in your head please replace "Skip Week" with "5th Week".The dreaded 5th week, what is it, why does it exist, how can we plan for it, and what do we do about it as retailers?We'll dive deep into the 5th week and what can be done to mitigate its impact on your shop.Episode Sponsor Shout-Outs:This week, our episode is brought to you by Comico Comics, get Elementals #1 from Comico Comics from rising comics star Bill Willingham in better comic shops near you right now!Thanks for listening to Data B.R.O.S., and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and join us next week as we keep exploring all things comics, data, and the retail world!---Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff, Django and Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

This week, on a very special Data B.R.O.S. - Jeff and Django are knee deep in The Comics Place hijinks so we're simulcasting an interview with Atom! Freeman about the Fan Confidence Rating that was recorded on Brian's Meanwhile...at Manage Comics podcast.RETURN to the past exploits of Adam.Look on in WONDER at the awesomeness that is the Fan Confidence RatingBe AMAZED at the revolutionary view into the comics industry that this provides.THRILL at two bald dudes talking data the way only bald dudes talking data can!Thanks for listening to Data B.R.O.S., and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and join us next week as we keep exploring all things comics, data, and the retail world!---Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff, Django and Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

Hey everyone, welcome back to Data B.R.O.S., your go-to 30-minute weekly podcast where we dive into the comic book industry, explore comic book data, and discuss what it really takes to run a modern comic shop! I’m Brian, your host, joined as always by Jeff and Django.Episode Sponsor Shout-Outs:This week, our episode is brought to you by Comico Comics and cash-houses-gold.com.Episode Highlights:New York Comic Con Recap We just got back from NYCC! We spent time with retailers, publishers, and creators, checking out all the new projects and getting some exclusive insider knowledge. There’s so much to share from ComicsPRO Retailer Day, including insights from two panels we participated in:Creating Experiences in Your Comic Shop – Jeff and Django talked all about making comic shops an immersive place for customers.Getting Your Shop Ready for the Holidays – Brian joined a panel covering seasonal strategies to drive more sales.Data Deal Announcement from Atom “Bang” Freeman Huge news! Atom Freeman announced a new data partnership with Manage Comics Comic Shop Assistant and PranaDM. introducing the Fan Confidence Rating!We also attended the ReedPop and ICV2 retailer panels, and they had plenty to say about what’s shaping the current market and where it’s headed.And that’s just scratching the surface! So much buzz, so much energy—stay tuned as we unpack these events and dive into why this fan data could impact what you see on the shelves in the coming months.Thanks for listening to Data B.R.O.S., and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and join us next week as we keep exploring all things comics, data, and the retail world!---Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff, Django and Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

Running a modern comic shop poses a myriad of problems and among them is how do you identify, rack, and sell adult material in your comic shop in 2024?In this episode of The Data B.R.O.S., we'll look at adult comics, how do you identify adult material? What makes something adult, is it violence, nudity, "adult situations", or is it something more?We'll talk about this and so much more in this week's episode of The Data B.R.O.S..---Special thanks to our Season Two title sponsor - Comico the Comic Book Company - Comics so good, you'll swear you went back in time. But you didn't! These are real comics that are really in comic shops. Like right now. Go buy one. You'll see!Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff, Django and Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

YOU GUYS! It's an all new Data B.R.O.S. and we're back to follow up the final issue from Season 1, Locations Locations Locations. In this dynamic SEASON TWO premiere, we talk about the all new The Comics Place location, what went into finding it, how Django and Jeff negotiated for the new location, what they'll do with their old location, and how the Data B.R.O.S. are going to come together - PHYSICALLY, to make their magic!You'll find this and so much more on an all new Data B.R.O.S. ---Thanks to our first Season Two sponsor - Bet Anything. Bet Anything Any Time, Any Place, on Any Thing. Bet Anything is your online betting portal. Visit Bet Anything and use the promo code B.R.O.S. to bet on this episode!Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff, Django and Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

IT CAME FROM THE VAULT!!! As we were blowing the dust off the Data B.R.O.S. after an extended leave of absence, we found this one last episode which we cleverly titled Location, Location, Location.What makes a good location? What should you look for when finding the perfect place for your comic shop? What's the trade-off on lower rent vs higher foot traffic? Is a location a marketing expense? What ARE the differences between Gross, Net, and triple Net? How does a lease length affect your rent total? What should you be watching out for?What do you need to think about with your core business and what is essential for ADA compliance?Of course there's the big question...IS THIS THE END OF THE DATA B.R.O.S.?Of course not dear listener - tune in next week for the premiere of Season 2 of The Data B.R.O.S.!---Thanks to our sponsor Murphy's Apple Juice, It's the shape, not the taste, but it's also the taste, which is pretty dang good.Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff, Django and Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

This week's Data B.R.O.S. shines the spotlight on Shannon Live of Bat City Comics Professionals who has an amazing program to encourage kids to read.We talk about Shannon's secret origin, discuss the origins of Bat City Comics Professionals, their move from Austin, Texas to Bradenton, Florida, and the amazing thing that is BAM! Books Are Magic.Shannon is passionate about both sequential storytelling AND getting kids to read, and she's got an amazing amount of stats, studys, and citations about the benefits of getting kids to read comics. Some might say she's got a TED talk worth of info...in fact, she delivered a TEDx talk in Bradenton in 2023!We think you'll really enjoy this awesome chat with Shannon Live.Bat City Comics ProfessionalsBAM - Books Are MagicYour voice as a superpower | Shannon Live | TEDxBradenton---Thanks to our sponsor Murphy's Apple Juice, It's the shape, not the taste, but it's also the taste, which is pretty dang good.Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff, Django and Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

This week Brian and Django are Jeffless, and spending time in the Windy City checking out comic shops and attending C2E2.They talk about C2E2, the Future of Comics Retail panel. Their thoughts on artist commissions, and various fun they've had in Chicago.---Thanks to our sponsor Murphy's Apple Juice, It's the shape, not the taste, but it's also the taste, which is pretty dang good.Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff, Django and Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

This week we’re going to talk about the impacts of Inflation on the comics industry. We’ll look at rising prices and the pressures of inflation, rising rents, labor costs, and everything else in between and how “Holding the line at $2.99” is a total fantasy that simply doesn’t match up with economic realities.We’ll talk about the challenges of the industry, and the strategies for surviving in an industry where cover prices are under pressure to remain low despite rising costs.This week and every week try to break our topics down into three segments:Data Broification: The underlying data that supports our subjectIndustry Yammer: How the comics industry supports, or presents challenges with our subject matterShop Talk: The practical ins and outs of the subject and how we deal with the topic in a retail environment.---Thanks to our sponsor Murphy's Apple Juice, It's the shape, not the taste, but it's also the taste, which is pretty dang good.Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff, Django and Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

Join us this week as we dive deep into the world of email marketing—a vital tool for any business owner looking to enhance their outreach. In this episode, we'll uncover why an email list is not just a tool but a valuable asset. We'll guide you through the best practices for managing and growing your list, navigate the tricky waters of compliance and permissions, and share the effective tools in use at The Comics Place, and some tips and tricks from our friends at Manage Comics.Tune in for a 30-minute journey that promises to equip you with essential insights and actionable tips to revolutionize your shop's email marketing strategy. Don't miss out on making the most of this powerful marketing channel!Check out the Manage Comics blog post that inspired this episode - Modernizing Your Comic, Game, and Hobby Store: A Guide to Building and Marketing to Your Email List---Thanks to our sponsor Murphy's Apple Juice, It's the shape, not the taste, but it's also the taste, which is pretty dang good.Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff, Django and Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

In this very special episode of the Data B.R.O.S. we dive into the Murphy's Apple Juice drama, what exactly is going on at Murphy's Apple juice? When you look back on all 10 episodes thus far, it is an interesting story of an organization that may be experiencing growing pains.We'll be back with a regular episode next week, but in the meantime please enjoy this special episode of Data B.R.O.S.. Inc.EDIT: As this issue was being given a final polish, Brian got an unexpected text message from a 209 area code (209 is Modesto California...the home base of Murphy's), it just said "Play this coward.", and had the final clip you'll hear at the end of this episode.---Thanks to our sponsor Murphy's Apple Juice, It's the shape, not the taste, but it's also the taste, which is pretty dang good.Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff, Django and Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

On a previous episode we spoke a bit about employee autonomy, this episode we break down what Employee Autonomy means, how it helps with employee growth, and how it benefits the business overall.In this episode we talk about:Hiring for AutonomyDealing with failureChecking in on autonomous employeesSuccess stories for autonomous employeesRewarding autonomous employeesWhat makes a Manga a perpetual seller?---Thanks to our sponsor Murphy's Apple Juice, It's the shape, not the taste, but it's also the taste, which is pretty dang good.Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff, Django and Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

This week we dive into the recent X-Office announcements, and the X-Men relaunch that was made at SXSW recently, and how that affects comic shops, what could be done to make announcements like that actionable, and how to improve overall overdering.We also talk about marketing concepts like earned vs paid media, calls to action, and closing loops.We'll also dive deep into "Auto-Subs" (from Comic Shop Assistant), or "Cloning Subscriptions" (with Manage Comics), and how stores will subscribe people to this line-wide relaunch.We'll also talk about line-wide burnout, how readersPlus, we previously touched on “Line Wide Burnout”, and I would love to give an anecdotal story on when I fell off the Krakoa stuff (and how I was a lapsed X-Fan who likely won’t come back to this new relaunch because it’s already too much at 3 titles).---Thanks to our sponsor Murphy's Apple Juice, It's the shape, not the taste, but it's also the taste, which is pretty dang good.Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff, Django and Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

WE COME FROM THE FUTURE WITH WARNINGS FROM THE PAST!!!With the COMET Presentation at the ComicsPRO presentation in Pittsburgh in February 2023 in the books, the metadata working group moves into its next phase, implementation and iteration.Jeff, Django and Brian are joined by Katie Pryde of Books with Pictures, and Jessica Wells of Penguin Radom House to discuss what the next steps are for COMET as a standard, and the Metadata Working Group as an entity.Check out the COMET Standard at: https://cometstandard.com---Thanks to our sponsor Murphy's Apple Juice, It's the shape, not the taste, but it's also the taste, which is pretty dang good.Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff, Django and Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

SECRET NO MORE!!! The Origin of the ComicsPRO Metadata Working Group is revealed!!!Before there was a COMET, there was the ComicsPRO Metadata Working Group, who had worked together informally for a year before meeting for the first time face-to-face in Pittsburgh in the winter of 2023. These brave men and women set out to redefine data for the comics direct market in a way that hadn't been attempted in more than two decades.This is their secret origin, their individual stories, and the tale of the team coming together for the first time and setting out on a path that would result in the COMET Data Standard, and ongoing work to reshape how data works for the comics industry.Thanks to our sponsor Murphy's Apple Juice, it's not the taste, it's the shape, but it's also the taste...which is pretty danged good.Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.---Thanks to our sponsor Murphy's Apple Juice, It's the shape, not the taste, but it's also the taste, which is pretty dang good.Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff, Django and Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

This week in a very special BONUS issue of the Data B.R.O.S. podcast, Brian is flying solo, but Django and Jeff are here in virtual spirit. In place of a normal issue, we're replaying Brian's overview of ComicsPRO and the COMET Standard from his Meanwhile...at Manage Comics podcast (with a couple of tiny bonuses thrown in for good measure).Segment 1:The ComicsPRO OverviewSegment 2:COMET Standard overviewGet more information about the COMET Standard at https://cometstandard.comGet involved with the COMET Standard by filling out the form at https://cometstandard.com/contact/Thanks for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.

INVERTING THE INVERTED PYRAMID!!!In this exciting episode we flip the entire episode on its head, starting with Shop Talk, moving in to Industry Yammer, and finishing off with Data Bro-Ification!We want to hear YOUR thoughts on the DataB.R.O.S.? We would love to hear from you, send us an email, or a voice mail to [email protected] and we’ll feature you in an upcoming issue!Shop TalkThe Back Issue Time MachineShout out to Collected Comics and Games for inspiring the Back Issue Time MachineEmpowering employeesIndustry YammerFacsimile editions, barcode issuesHow to make a facsimile seriesData Bro-IficationCOMET OverviewWhat is it?When it was created?Why it was  created?When it will be announced?---Thanks to our sponsor Murphy's Apple Juice, It's the shape, not the taste, but it's also the taste, which is pretty dang good.Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff, Django and Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

LOOK INTO THE FUTURE AND GASP IN DELIGHT!!!In this issue, we discuss the unpredictability of comics deliveries, and how the store being physically closed affects deliveries, how data comes into a system, what we’re looking forward to in 2024, and finally some talk about autosubbing (not a Transformer).We want to hear YOUR thoughts on the DataB.R.O.S.? We would love to hear from you, send us an email, or a voice mail to [email protected] and we’ll feature you in an upcoming issue!Data Bro-IficationHow products get into the databases for Comic Shop Assistant and Manage ComicsWhat kind of data hygiene needs to happenWhat options there are in the future.We’ll also hear the latest in the ongoing story of Murphy’s Apple Juice.Industry YammerWhat looks exciting in 2024?How will things like The Ultimate Universe and the Energon Universe fare in 2024?Who are the upcoming hot creators who we may be sleeping on right now?Continuing talk about speculators as part of a healthy ecosystemShop TalkWhat’s an AutoSub? Is it a Transfomer?What’s a Clone? Is it related to Peter Parker?How are AutoSubs and Clones helping shops manage their subscriptions?---Thanks to our sponsor Murphy's Apple Juice, It's the shape, not the taste, but it's also the taste, which is pretty dang good.Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff and Django at Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

THEY WARNED US THIS COULD HAPPEN!!!In this issue, we say goodbye to 2023, mourn some of the stores who closed, and celebrate some of the new openings.What do YOU think about the DataB.R.O.S.? We would love to hear from you, send us an email, or a voice mail to [email protected] and we’ll feature you in an upcoming issue!Data Bro-IficationSaying good-bye to some shops, and hello to some new shops in 2023How legacy comic shops are handed downWe’ll also hear the latest in the ongoing story of Murphy’s Apple Juice, and an email from Chad Rivard of Emerald City Comics.Industry YammerSKTCHD.com’s Completely Great, a Total Pain in the Ass, and Everything In-Between”: Retailers Discuss a Year of Change in Comic Shops https://sktchd.com/longform/january-2024-retailer-feature/Speculators and how they contribute to the health of the industryWhere we are in the never ending boom-bust cycle of comicsShop TalkHow are some recent releases like Ghost Machine doing for The Comics Place?What’s going on with The Comics’ Place’s new release wall and how is that shaking out?---Thanks to our sponsor Murphy's Apple Juice, It's the shape, not the taste, but it's also the taste, which is pretty dang good.Thank you for listening to the latest issue of Data B.R.O.S. please like, rate and subscribe to the DataB.R.O.S. on Spotify, Apple Music, or wherever you get your podcasts.Visit Brian and Manage Comics at @managecomics on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, as well as at managecomics.comVisit Jeff and Django at Comic Shop Assistant at @comicshopassistant on Facebook or Instagram or visit their website at comicshopassistant.comYou can also visit The Comics Place in Bellingham Washington on their website, or visit them on Facebook and Instagram, or listen to their podcast - The Comics Place Presents on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

IT CAME FROM…VOLUME 1, ISSUE 3!DataB.R.O.S. has hit the “Terrible Threes”, and in this all chromium covered issue, we feature our FIRST TWO viewer emails, and so much more awesomeness.YOU should tell us how we’re doing, send us an email, or a voice mail to [email protected] and we’ll feature you in an upcoming issue!In this episode the Data B.R.O.S. continue to talk comics, data, and the business of comics.Data Bro-IficationThe top 5 most sold trade paperbacks and hardcovers of 2023Industry YammerBook series codesWhy having series codes is important for the book tradeWhat happens when series codes get shared with comics unexpectedlyShop TalkHow The Comics Place has changed up their shop to help customers discover new books easier.Follow the #databros hashtag on Instagram

SUDDENLY IT’S VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2!It's a “Second Issue Spectacular", and for this issue we’ve got 52 variant covers, including three very special ratio covers which you’ll need a PHD in math to figure out how you qualify!!!Think that’s too stiff? WELL TELL US ABOUT IT!!! Write to us at [email protected] this episode the Data B.R.O.S. continue to talk comics, data, and the business of comics.Data Bro-IficationThe top 5 most sold single issues at the Comics Place, and the top 5 most received single issues of 2023 through Manage Comics.Industry YammerDiscovery in a modern comic shopHow to improve discoverabilityWhat we expect of customersShop TalkHow The Comics Place handles discoverability, and what they did with Unnatural Order #1 to create a unique promotional opportunity that is paying off.

VOLUME 1, ISSUE 1!It's a fabulous "First Issue Collector's Item" complete with the requisite 106 variant covers (including a special embossed cover with smell-o-vision with authentic "Data B.R.O.S. scratch and sniff area).WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Write to us at [email protected] this episode you'll be introduced to the B.R.O.S. and listen in as they talk about Comic Book Retail, Comic Book Data, and some other silliness.Data Bro-Ification:Top 5 most subscribed comics of 2023 according to Manage ComicsAD BREAK:Murphy's Apple Juice (Data B.R.O.S. title sponsor).Django Reads an actual late night text message from Brian.Industry Yammer:Customer Loyalty, and how blindly loyal comic book customers can be, and how it can actually hide some big problems within the comics industry overall, or within an individual shop's business.Shop TalkHow the Comics Place is combatting the January retail blahs with a Customer Appreciation Month

In this still very special part two "Zero Issue" episode of "DataB.R.O.S.," you'll hear more from the terrific trio behind the podcast as they continue figuring out just what this show is.You'll hear more of them trying to figure out what the unique intersection of comics and technology is, what challenges and opportunities running a modern comic store in an increasingly digital world bring, and how technology can make the shop experience better and ulitmately more profitable.Your hosts Brian, Django and Jeff continue figuring segments and the interestng things that will make a compelling podcast.There's probably a fair number of WUB WUB WUBS in there as well!Tune in to "DataB.R.O.S. Episode 0, part 2" for more of the future of what should be a pretty fun podcast!

In this very special part one "Zero Issue" episode of "DataB.R.O.S.," listeners are introduced to the dynamic trio behind the podcast, who are not only avid comic book enthusiasts but also savvy in the latest technological trends. As they embark on this new auditory journey, they delve into what the show will encompass, focusing on the unique intersection of comics and technology. They discuss the challenges and opportunities of running a modern comic store in an increasingly digital world, exploring how technology can enhance the comic reading experience and streamline store operations. Along the way, they share personal anecdotes, and how they envision technology shaping the future of comic book consumption and distribution. This episode sets the stage for a series filled with deep dives into specific tactics, discussions on the latest tech tools revolutionizing the way we engage with our four colored friends, and maybe even an interview or two with some notable luminaries in the comics space? This show is full of opportunities. Tune in to "DataB.R.O.S. Episode 0, part 1" for a thoughtful and entertaining exploration of comics through the lens of technology.

After disasterous attempts by Brian and Django, Jeff steps up to the plate to get a resident "lady in the tube" to record a promo for the Data B.R.O.S.Of course, hilarity ensues.

Django attempts to use an AI assistant to create his own promo for the Data B.R.O.S. podcast.What could possibly go wrong?

We caught Brian working with a generative AI named Barry to do a test intro for the DataB.R.O.S. podcast (podcast coming soon).