Ashtabula Hobby Talk Episode #2 – How It All Started

Episode #2 of Ashtabula Hobby Talk is really where you start to get to know us.

If you haven’t seen our this episode yet, go back and take a look — it sets the stage for what we’re building here. This episode continues that story and gives a deeper look into who we are, where we came from, and why we decided to launch this show in the first place.

Two Different Paths, One Shared Idea

Nemo (KE8PVL), president of Amigos Radio Club, shares his journey from IT work to video production, competitive airsoft events, and eventually into amateur radio — a hobby he plans to stick with for life. Radio isn’t just a pastime; it’s about community, communication, and constantly learning something new.

Rykus, owner of Captain’s Comics in North Kingsville, talks about checking off three lifelong goals: playing music, creating videos, and opening his own comic book store. After years of collecting, filming bands, and working in video production, he and his wife made the leap and opened their shop — turning a passion into a business.

This show brings all of that together. Video production. Collecting. Tech. Community. It just makes sense.

Comics, Creativity, and Remembering Peter David

A big part of this episode is a tribute to comic book legend Peter David, whose passing hit the comic community hard.

We talk about the impact he had on characters like:

  • Spider-Man 2099
  • The Incredible Hulk (including Professor Hulk)
  • Aquaman and the unforgettable harpoon hand era
  • X-Factor
  • Contributions to Star Trek and Babylon 5

For many of us who grew up in the 90s comic scene, his writing shaped our experience. These weren’t just stories — they were part of our childhood.

It’s moments like that which remind us why hobbies matter. They stick with you. They shape you.

From a Damaged Collection to a New Friendship

We also share the story of how a house cleanout — and a garage-sized comic book collection — led to this partnership.

A lot of those comics were unfortunately destroyed, but some were saved. That experience brought Nemo into Captain’s Comics, and somewhere in the middle of sorting through long boxes and talking shop, the idea for this show was born.

That’s how hobbies work. They connect people.

Supporting Local Events in Ashtabula County

We also highlight what’s happening locally:

📡 Ashtabula County Hamfest – July 19 at Pioneer Picnic Grounds
🎡 Pioneer Picnic Festival – August 29 – September 1
🍗 Amish Benefit Dinner – June 6

Part of our mission is keeping you informed about the great things happening right here in our community.

What We’re Building

Ashtabula Hobby Talk isn’t just about comics or radio.

It’s about:

  • Local creators
  • Hobbyists of all kinds
  • Small businesses
  • Sharing knowledge
  • Building community

We’ve got beekeepers, radio operators, creators, and more lined up for future episodes — and we’re just getting started.

If you haven’t watched this yet, definitely go back and check it out. Catch up Episode #2 to learn more about how this whole thing came together.

And don’t forget to visit our website for updates, blog posts, and information about upcoming guests and events.

Thanks for being part of this with us — we’re excited to see where it goes.

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