The Inspiration Behind Impound Comics/ W The Creator

n a resurfaced video from our YouTube channel, creator Brent Trayce Sands breaks down the true origins of Impound Issue #1 and what sparked the creation of the entire Impound Universe.

Brent explains that the earliest inspiration came from the cultural impact of the Black Panther film—specifically seeing director Ryan Coogler, a fellow Sacramento State alum, rise to create something monumental. Combined with Sacramento rapper Mozzy appearing on the soundtrack, Brent felt a powerful push to build something meaningful for his own city. Just one week later, the idea for Impound was born.

Drawing from his background in film and creative writing, Brent shaped Impound with a blend of influences: the darkness of Gotham, the mythic themes of heaven vs. hell, the intensity of MMA culture, and the visual inspirations of characters like Spawn, Iron Man, Cyclops, and even the Ninja Turtles. He set out to craft a story rooted in humanity—highlighting fatherhood, struggle, resilience, and the weight of doing the right thing.

Brent ultimately gave Impound the title of Sacramento’s first superhero, a decision that shaped not only the story, but the identity of the brand itself. That choice would later help lead to the opening of the Impound Comics store.

From one idea came a universe—now over 20 books and much more on the horizon.

You can watch the full video and hear Brent tell the story in his own words.