Off Panel #573: XP Boost with Beetle Moses

Off Panel #573 features cartoonist Beetle Moses discussing his webcomic and its first print collection, "Beetle Moses: A Comics Menagerie." The conversation covers Moses's experience at SPX (Small Press Expo), his approach to reader engagement, and reflections on what 2026 has been like for him as a creator. The episode explores his creative influences—including surprising ones—and his work in longform comics, with particular attention to comparisons with Gary Larson's "The Far Side." Moses discusses the philosophy of bringing authenticity to one's work and the practical decisions involved in assembling a print collection, including which pieces to include and how to handle pop culture references in a permanent format. The conversation touches on the significance of transitioning from digital to print, maintaining what Moses calls "the special sauce" of his comics, and techniques for varying rhythm and pacing across different comic formats. The episode also addresses broader themes about the different dimensions of comics as a medium and Moses's artistic aspirations moving forward. This appears to be a standard interview format focused on the creator's process, influences, and recent milestone of publishing a print collection.

Verdict: A solid interview with a working cartoonist about his craft and print debut that will appeal to comics enthusiasts, though the show notes suggest competent but not exceptional depth or revelatory insights.

Arts rubric

• Insight into the work 3/5 20%

  Show notes indicate discussion of creative process (rhythm-breaking, authenticity, format transitions) but lack specific examples or deep analysis of the actual comics or storytelling techniques.

• Expertise and access 4/5 20%

  Direct conversation with the cartoonist himself provides authentic access; Off Panel is an established comics interview podcast with credible hosts, though no specific host credentials are mentioned.

• Sparks curiosity 3/5 15%

  The print collection milestone and discussion of influences like The Far Side may interest comics readers, but show notes don't convey compelling hooks or surprising revelations that would strongly drive interest.

• Substance 3/5 15%

  Topics listed are substantive (SPX experience, print vs. digital, creative philosophy, collection curation) but show notes provide only topic headers without indication of depth, storytelling, or concrete examples discussed.

• Delivers on its title 4/5 15%

  Title "XP Boost" suggests leveling up or growth; the episode covers a creator's milestone (print collection) and reflections on his journey, which aligns well with the growth/advancement framing.

• Value for time 3/5 15%

  At 83 minutes, the episode covers numerous topics but show notes don't clarify pacing or whether the length is justified by density of content versus conversational padding.

How we score Arts

Worth it if you read webcomics, follow indie cartoonists, or are interested in the practical side of transitioning digital work to print.

Based on the episode description. AI-generated; it can be wrong.