# John McLaren of Phantom Ink Comics | ToteMan, Villains Anonymous & Indie Comics

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-united-states-department-of-nerds-podcast-6458372/john-mclaren-of-phantom-ink-comics-toteman-villains-anonymous-indie-comics
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-united-states-department-of-nerds-podcast-6458372/john-mclaren-of-phantom-ink-comics-toteman-villains-anonymous-indie-comics.md
Podcast: [The United States Department of Nerds Podcast](https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-united-states-department-of-nerds-podcast-6458372)
Published: 2026-05-30T14:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://share.transistor.fm/s/09adaf8c
Audio file: https://media.transistor.fm/09adaf8c/1b7c46af.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/the-united-states-department-of-nerds-podcast-6458372/episodes/john-mclaren-of-phantom-ink-comics-toteman-villains-anonymous-indie-comics
Duration seconds: 5916

## Resource

What happens when a lifelong comic fan, toy collector, and convention veteran turns his passion into creator-owned comics? In this episode of the USDN Podcast, The Chairman sits down with John McLaren of Phantom Ink Comics to discuss the origins of ToteMan, Villains Anonymous, Argyle Avenger, NinjaBoy, and the journey from comic collector to comic creator. John shares the personal inspiration behind ToteMan, including how the character helped explain epilepsy to his son, while also discussing the realities of independent publishing, convention culture, creator-owned storytelling, and the enduring appeal of classic comic book adventures. From Gen X nostalgia and comic collecting to building a universe of original characters, this conversation explores why indie comics continue to thrive through passion, creativity, and community. Follow John McLaren / Phantom Ink Comics: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Gen.X.Toybox Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genxtoybox YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/PhantomInkProduction Follow the USDN Podcast: Linktree: https://linktr.ee/USDN_Podcast 📧 Business / Media Inquiries: thechairman@usdnpodcast.com 🛒 Support USDN & Protect Your Collection BCW Supplies Affiliate Link: https://www.bcwsupplies.com/?acc=usdn Use Coupon Code: USDN Affiliate Disclosure: USDN may earn a small commission if you use our affiliate link or code. This helps support the show at no extra cost to you. The USDN Podcast - Where Indie Comics Come to Life.

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