What happens when a legendary blade tells its own story?

This week on Talking Comics, AJ sits down with Doug Marcaida, known for his role on the History Channel’s Forged in Fire, to talk about his new comic book Lineage.

Doug shares how decades of martial arts, Filipino blade culture, and storytelling inspired a unique comic where the blade itself narrates history as it passes through generations.

We dive into:

The inspiration behind Lineage

Martial arts influences in storytelling

Creating authentic fight choreography for comics

Launching the comic through Kickstarter

Why community and legacy are central to the project

Doug also talks about his journey from U.S. Air Force veteran to TV personality to comic creator, and why he believes everyone has a story worth passing down.

If you love comics, martial arts, storytelling, or behind-the-scenes creator stories, you won’t want to miss this episode.

Follow Doug Marcaida on Insta and YouTube @DougMarcaida

Last day to support the kickstarter live but late pledges will be available!

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/kidheroes/doug-marcaidas-lineage-2-4-comic?ref=profile_created&category_id=250

Host: A.J. Reimann

📰 Full episode blog on Substack 🗨 Get your FREE preview of The Chronicles of Panel Pete https://talkincomicspodcast.substack.com/

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👉 Watch the Panel Pete trailer now https://youtu.be/z1zDZuO_8hk

Sponsors:

• AMPED Comics – Use code TCP10 for 10% off https://ampedcomics.com/discount/TCP10

• Allegra Printing – Printing The Chronicles of Panel Pete

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Content Overview

00:10 Doug Mercati’s Background in Martial Arts and Military

01:13 The Concept of Lineage in His Comic Series

03:03 Cultural Significance of Blades in History and Culture

04:56 Personal Journey and Leaving a Legacy

06:19 Designing Functional Blades and Cultural Symbols

07:59 Crowdfunding and Community Involvement

09:51 Future Plans and New Issues

12:05 Advice for Aspiring Creators

14:01 The Creative Process and Collaboration

17:04 Storytelling Through Art and Easter Eggs

21:03 The Poetic and Symbolic Elements of the Comic

25:58 Cultural and Martial Arts Influences in the Art

31:47 The Power of Community and Passing Down Stories

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