We had the good fortune of connecting with Joe Furman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Joe, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting something ambitious is always the hardest part. I had always day dreamed of owning a comic book store, it was the idea of leaving a steady career and pursuing such new territory that was the scariest part of it all. When I was finally fed up with the daily grind of working a corporate job I went in and just quit, no solid plan in my back pocket or anything just the idea of something new. I sat down with my wife and she was the one that convinced me to finally take the plunge and go after my dream, saying if I didn’t at least give it a shot I would regret it forever.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I wasn’t quite sure what all it would take to start a business, it takes a lot!

It took months of teaching myself and asking friends and family that own businesses for advice on how to go about everything the proper way. It takes a lot of hard work and perseverance to overcome any obstacles that are laid out in front of you along the process. You can’t be afraid to fail and learn from the mistakes that you will absolutely make, just try to learn from them.

Atomic Comics had been around for about 20 years before they had to close in the mid 00’s. Now that I brought it back it’s a new era for the company. We pride ourselves in offering the best experience in comic and collectible retail that you can get. Our store is very family friendly and welcomes ALL types of humans. We run great events that you would expect from a comic store and also unique ones you wouldn’t expect. We also love partnering with other local businesses on cool projects.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’d start off the morning with Coffee from La Taza which is right across from Atomic Comics. Obviously we’d walk around Atomic for a bit.

Since everybody loves good food there are some amazing locally owned places you can’t miss in the Valley. Right down the street from us in Gilbert is Joe’s Farm Grill, another great spot is a hidden gem called El Charro in Mesa, they offer very authentic and amazing Mexican food.

For something fun to do we’d have to go to some arcades. Level 1, The Grid and Endgame are all great!

Probably end with a movie at Majestic Theater, they have a few locations that all offer the best dining/movie experience, the food is really great.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My Wife Cam for encouraging me to follow this dream and dealing with me along the way. She also designed our new logo.

My Dad Bruce for spending two months with me building everything in the store and offering guidance along the way.

My Daughters Violet and Fiona for helping at the store and giving up time with me.

The Atomic Comics Staff and Manager Dustan for keeping everything running and offering a friendly environment for the community.

Website: www.atomiccomicsaz.com

Instagram: atomiccomicsaz

Twitter: atomiccomicsaz

Facebook: https://facebook.com/100072566434892/

Other: Discord – https://discord.gg/fvrQQAMM

Image Credits
Cam Furman

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