Dollar Bin Bandits

Joe Staton Returns   Joe Staton returns to the Bandits, discussing his work from comic strips to comic books. Joe explores character design, reflecting on his contributions to Green Lantern and Guy Gardner. He discusses collaborating with writers over the years and speaks to the improvisational nature of monthly comics. Joe also expands on world building and mentions his work on the Dick Tracy comic strip, as well as his work in books like Batman and Robin Adventures. And if you're in the Charlotte, NC area this weekend (June 12-14), you can catch Joe at HeroesCon! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Paul Jenkins, multimedia writer extraordinaire, is back on the Bandits to discuss his highly anticipated return to Marvel Comics, including new stories featuring two of the publisher's most complex heroes: The Sentry and Captain Marvel. Paul reflects on revisiting Bob Reynolds more than two decades after co-creating the character and less than a year after his MCU debut, explores the psychological themes that continue to make The Sentry unique, and shares insights into working with artist Christian Rosado on the latest chapter of the Golden Guardian of Good. The conversation also dives into Captain Marvel: Dark Past, examining Carol Danvers' evolving legacy, the challenges of writing powerful heroes with deeply human flaws, and the themes that connect these new projects. Along the way, Paul looks back on his celebrated Marvel career, discusses characters he'd still love to revisit, and offers fans a glimpse into this exciting new chapter of his storytelling journey. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For this episode, we sit down with acclaimed cartoonist and graphic novelist Anders Nilsen to discuss his remarkable career and the ambitious graphic novel, Tongues. Known for award-winning works such as Big Questions, Dogs and Water, and The End, Nilsen shares how Tongues represents the culmination of years of artistic growth, blending mythology, philosophy, and deeply personal storytelling into his most expansive project yet. Along the way, we explore his creative process, the challenges of long-form comics, the influence of grief and personal experience on his work, and why he continues to push the boundaries of what comics can achieve as an art form. You can follow Anders on his site, andersbrekhusnilsen.com, and on Instagram @andersbrekus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today we welcome Brian Haberlin for a deep dive into his remarkable career as an artist, writer, innovator, and publisher. We start the conversation by shining a spotlight on the currently crowdfunding Aria Omnibus, the definitive collection of the fan-favorite fantasy series co-created by Brian, exploring the origins of the character, the book's blend of mythology and modern storytelling, and why Aria continues to resonate with readers decades after its debut. Brian also reflects on his early work at Top Cow, his contributions to titles such as Witchblade (which he co-created) and Spawn, and his pioneering efforts in digital coloring and comic-book production technology. Along the way, Brian discusses balancing fine art with #comics work, world-building, and the lessons learned from a career spent pushing the boundaries of storytelling. Back the Aria Omnibus project on Kickstarter until June 25: kck.st/4dcJUPD. You can follow Brian on his site, haberlin.com, or on Instagram @brianhaberlinofficial. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today we're welcoming Shea Fontana for a fun and insightful conversation about her career writing across #comics, animation, and all-ages storytelling. Shea discusses her journey from screenwriting to comics, including her work on DC Super Hero Girls and the challenges of crafting stories for younger readers while remaining engaging for longtime fans. The discussion spotlights her latest projects, including the magical underwater adventures of Mermicorno: Starfall - Game On! and the return to one of her most beloved creations with DC Super Hero Girls: High School Reunion. Along the way, Shea reflects on character-driven storytelling, the importance of creating accessible entry points for new readers, and how the next generation of comic fans continues to shape the industry. You can follow Shea at her website, sheafontana.com, or on Instagram @sheafontana. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Returning guest Corrisa Grant is back to discuss the latest chapter in the Worthy Chaos Comics universe with the launch of Worthy Chaos: Damnation #1. Corrisa dives into the origins of the new project, the darker themes and mythology driving the story, and the challenges of continuing to build an ambitious independent comics universe through crowdfunding and creator-owned publishing. The conversation also explores the realities of running an indie comics company in today's market, balancing creative ambition with business demands, and how Worthy Chaos continues expanding its world and fanbase one project at a time. You only have until June 4 to back this project, so get to it: http://kck.st/4uPruKu! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Dollar Bin Bandits welcome back returning guests Joe Pruett and legendary artist Mike Deodato Jr. to discuss The Book of Deodato Jr., the massive retrospective celebrating Mike's decades-long career across the #comics industry. The conversation dives into Mike's artistic evolution from his early superhero work to the darker, cinematic storytelling style that defined acclaimed runs on titles like New Avengers and Dark Avengers, while Joe shares insight into assembling the oversized hardcover packed with rare artwork, archival material, and behind-the-scenes stories from Mike's career. Along the way, the discussion explores changing eras of the comics business, the enduring appeal of physical art books and collectibles, and what fans may discover about Mike's body of work that they never fully appreciated before. You have until June 11 to back The Book of Deodato Jr. Kickstarter here: http://kck.st/4dCiL8K. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today we sit down with David Steinberger and Chip Mosher to discuss the evolution of DSTLRY and the rapidly expanding world of Neon Ichiban, with a major focus on the newly unveiled Neon Ichiban 2.0 platform update. The conversation explores how their backgrounds at comiXology and BOOM! Studios helped shape their creator-first approach to publishing and collectibles, while also diving into the changing nature of fandom, curation, and premium physical media in modern comics culture. David and Chip discuss the philosophy behind Neon Ichiban's evolution, the challenge of balancing collectibility with accessibility, and why they believe thoughtfully curated experiences and high-end presentation still matter in an increasingly digital entertainment landscape. Check out their creations at dstlry.co and neonichiban.com. You can preorder a Mischief of Magpies at focrewards.com and earn credit for comics reviews here: https://neonichiban.com/hubs. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Bandits welcome Jim Zub for a wide-ranging conversation about his career in #comics, with a special focus on his recent Conan the Barbarian work. Jim discusses the challenge of taking on one of fantasy's most iconic characters, balancing classic Robert E. Howard influences with modern storytelling, and why Conan continues to resonate with readers decades after his creation. The discussion also explores Jim's broader journey through the industry, from self-publishing and creator-owned projects like Skullkickers to major runs on franchises including Dungeons & Dragons, Avengers, and Thunderbolts. Along the way, Jim reflects on the realities of building a long-term comics career and his passion for mentoring the next generation of creators through education and industry transparency. You can follow Jim on his site, jimzub.com, or on Instagram @jim_zub. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Dollar Bin Bandits welcome legendary creator Dan Brereton back to the show to talk monsters, mood, and the long-awaited return of his beloved noir-horror universe in Nocturnals: Darkly. Dan digs into the origins of the new graphic novel, why the Nocturnals characters continue to resonate decades later, and how his lush painted artwork has evolved over the years while still channeling the same spooky pulp energy fans fell in love with in the '90s. We also chats with Dan about crowdfunding, creator-owned comics, and the challenges of balancing storytelling with jaw-dropping visuals.  And for listeners looking to join the monster party, the Nocturnals: Darkly Kickstarter campaign is still accepting late pledges: http://kck.st/3NBLP5Z. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Dollar Bin Bandits sit down with Bryan Liddiard and Jon Bryans to discuss the long history and enduring cult appeal of Panda Khan, the martial arts-inspired anthropomorphic comic that became one of the standout independent books of the late black-and-white boom era. The conversation explores the origins of the character, the influence of kung fu films and 1980s comics culture, the challenges of creating independent comics during a rapidly changing market, and the surprising legacy Panda Khan has maintained with collectors and fans decades later. Bryan and Jon also reflect on creator-owned comics, the realities of indie publishing, and what it's been like revisiting Panda Khan for a new generation of readers. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Returning guest Diana Schutz joins us for a candid and wide-ranging look back at her decades helping shape Dark Horse Comics as the legendary publisher celebrates its 40th anniversary and faces a new era following the departure of founder Mike Richardson. Diana reflects on the early days of Dark Horse, the company's creator-first philosophy, and the editorial voice that helped separate it from the Big Two, while also discussing the challenges, risks, and missed opportunities that came with navigating multiple eras of the comics industry. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

On this episode, we sit down with Morgan Siebert, curator of the Super Museum, for a conversation about preserving the legacy of the Man of Steel and celebrating one of pop culture's most enduring icons. Morgan shares stories from the museum's incredible collection of comics, props, toys, and memorabilia, discusses what it's like running a museum dedicated to Superman, and reflects on how the character has evolved across generations of fans. The episode also dives into the history of the Superman Celebration, rare collectibles, and the unique role Metropolis, Illinois plays as Superman's hometown in the real world. Check out all that's going on at the Super Museum on their website, supermuseum.com, or by following them on Instagram @supermanmuseum. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Returning guest Judd Winick introduces Hilo Presents, a new imprint expanding beyond the beloved Hilo series to bring his signature action-packed storytelling and humor to brand new stories and worlds. The Mighty launches as the first book under this banner, and Judd breaks down the story of Miranda Luna, an average kid in Willow City navigating multiple changes—rising crime, increased bullying, a mysteriously acting family, and her own body's unexpected transformations including super-strength and sudden hair growth—while grappling with a local legend about a giant, furry, mythical creature that protects the city in times of need. He discusses his approach to balancing themes of growing up and feeling out of control with fun middle-grade adventure, explains how The Mighty compares to Hilo in tone and audience, and shares his vision for the Hilo Presents imprint including plans for additional books, whether he's still working on Hilo simultaneously, and where readers can find The Mighty. As always, you can find Judd on Instagram @juddwinick. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In a galaxy not so far away, we sit down with artist Stephane Leonardi to talk shop on the ever-evolving world of sketch cards, with a heavy lean into his standout work on Star Wars and Marvel Universe sets. Leonardi breaks down the unique challenge of telling a complete, dynamic story in just a few square inches, sharing insights into his process, materials, and the hustle behind commission-driven art and collector culture. The conversation celebrates the intersection of fandom and artistry that makes sketch cards such a vital (and addictive) corner of the hobby. You can follow Stephane on his site, stephaneleonardi.com, or on Instagram @artofstephaneleonardi.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Will Meugniot joins the Bandits for a wide-ranging conversation spanning his decades-long career across #comics, animation, and toy design. He traces his path from discovering comics and early cartoons to breaking into the industry professionally, touching on his co-creation of DNAgents with writer Mark Evanier and discussing how the character designs came together. The bulk of the conversation focuses on his extensive animation work, including his roles as producer and director on X-Men: The Animated Series, where he helped adapt decades of Marvel mythology for a new generation of fans, as well as his contributions to Batman: The Animated Series, G.I. Joe, and Captain Planet. Will reflects on the technical constraints of 80s and 90s animation production and how those limitations often drove creative solutions, while also discussing the differences between storyboarding for animation and laying out a comics page. He shares thoughts on the evolution of the animation industry, collaborators who shaped his storytelling instincts, and which projects brought him the most satisfaction — as well as a few that never made it to screen but still linger in his imagination. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Roy Thomas returns to discuss A Life in Four Colors, 1940–1966, his long-awaited autobiography published by TwoMorrows. In the book, the man Stan Lee dubbed "Rascally Roy" and "Roy the Boy" tells the full, uncensored story of his emergence as one of the brightest stars in the Marvel Comics firmament. Readers get a ringside seat at some of the earliest comics conventions, and at the fateful 1965 New York Herald Tribune interview that caused a seismic rift between Lee and Kirby. The full-color hardcover is illustrated with rare and unseen art and behind-the-scenes photos from the dawn of the Silver Age, and Roy teases that he's already hard at work on a follow-up volume covering the rest of his Marvel tenure from 1967 to 1980. You can find the book from TwoMorrows here: https://twomorrows.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=1878. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Craig Rousseau stops by to talk about The Perhapanauts: Treasure Obscura, the latest Kickstarter in his ongoing effort to bring remixed and remastered editions of the beloved cryptid-adventure series back into print. Co-created with writer Todd Dezago, The Perhapanauts follows a team of strange creatures — including a sasquatch, a ghost, a telepath, and more — investigating other weird and unexplained phenomena. This new self-published edition of volume four is a radical reimagining of the long out-of-print collection, trimming some material while adding the 2025 one-shot "Choopie's Bad Bad Day!" and an all-new eight-page story called "Still in Brazil," a follow-up to the earlier tale "Big in Brazil." Craig shares the journey of shepherding the Perhapanauts through multiple publishers over the years and his passion for getting these books into a definitive, shelf-worthy format for longtime fans and new readers alike. You have until 4/29 to back the project here: kck.st/3PU8rQ0! You can follow Craig on his site, craigrousseau.com, or on Instagram @craigrousseau. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We sit down with Garth Ennis for a wide-ranging conversation that blends career reflection with a deep dive into Babs: Black Road South. Garth discusses his early discovery of comics and how his 2000 AD roots continue to shape his storytelling instincts, particularly his emphasis on clarity, character, and structure. He reflects on long-running themes in his work—war fiction, flawed antiheroes, and the balance between satire and humanism—while also addressing how projects like The Boys have evolved beyond their original context. Turning to Babs, Ennis unpacks his take on sword-and-sorcery, the appeal of a deeply flawed protagonist, and the tonal shift in Black Road South toward a more character-focused narrative. He also highlights his ongoing collaboration with Jacen Burrows, the role of humor in grounding the series' darker elements, and what lies ahead for Babs and beyond. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We welcome back Ed Catto to talk all things Ithacon 2026, diving into what makes one of the longest-running comic conventions in the country such a unique and creator-friendly experience. Catto shares how this year's show continues Ithacon's tradition of blending legendary guests with up-and-coming talent, while also emphasizing its relaxed, community-driven vibe. He discusses the challenges and rewards of organizing the event, highlights some of the special programming and notable attendees fans can look forward to, and reflects on why smaller, more intimate conventions like Ithacon remain vital to the comics ecosystem. Fans can grab tickets and learn more via the official site here: Get Ithacon 2026 Tickets. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today we sit down with Dick DeBartolo—longtime MAD Magazine writer and “The Giz Wiz”—for a lively conversation that bounces between comics, comedy, and gadgets. Dick shares how he broke into MAD during its legendary era, what it was like working alongside icons like Al Jaffee and Don Martin, and how the magazine's anything-goes humor shaped his creative instincts. He also digs into his parallel career in tech and radio, explaining how his love of quirky gadgets led to his long-running “Giz Wiz” persona. Throughout the interview, DeBartolo's trademark wit and self-deprecating humor shine through, offering both a nostalgic look at MAD's golden age and a reminder of how curiosity and comedy can fuel a decades-long career. You can follow Dick on Instagram @thegizwiz. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Comics legend Jim Starlin returns to talk about the latest chapter in his ongoing Dreadstar revival — Dreadstar vs. Dreadstar, the newest original graphic novel in a series he's been building through Kickstarter since his triumphant return to the character in 2021. The conversation covers the full arc of Dreadstar's history — from its origins as the first title ever published under Marvel's Epic imprint, through its run at First Comics and brief Malibu revival, to the decision to bypass the big publishers entirely and build a new audience directly through crowdfunding. Jim talks about what it's like to have creative ownership over Vanth Dreadstar in a way he never quite had with Thanos, why the Kickstarter model has given him a freedom he never expected at this stage of his career, and what he still has left to say with a character he's had mapped out for at least five more graphic novels. You only have a few days left to back Dreadstar vs. Dreadstar here: http://kck.st/3Nn0EJM! You can follow Jim on Instagram @jimstarlin or Facebook @JimStarlinfanpage. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ray Reynet, a Miami-based writer, illustrator, animator, and founder of Farlook Studios, stops by to talk about building an entire indie comics universe from the ground up — starting from sketching characters as a self-taught kid in South Florida all the way to self-publishing a growing catalog that includes the mythology-fueled adventure series Junket: Hidden Worlds Revealed, The Dwellers, Gunny, and his newest project The Groundsmen. We dig into what it actually looks like to wear every hat at once — writing, illustrating, animating, designing, marketing, and running successful crowdfunding campaigns entirely on your own — and how Ray has managed to keep expanding his creative output while developing a distinct brand identity across multiple genres and formats. You can follow Ray on farlookstudios.com or on Instagram @rayreynet. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

North Carolina-based artist Rodney Bennett joins the show to talk Legend of the Black Starr, his self-published indie superhero series set in 1938 and published through his own Vision Alive Studios. The guys dig into the book's first story, "No Rest for the Weary," a pulp-flavored blend of horror, sci-fi, and superhero action that follows a young vigilante called the Black Starr as he infiltrates a mortuary to rescue an abducted girl — only to stumble onto zombie attacks, weird science, and a full-blown government cover-up. Rodney talks about his background as a Studio Art graduate from North Carolina Central University and career as an art educator, and how decades of teaching painting, drawing, and sculpture to youth eventually led him back to his childhood love of comics and character creation. The conversation covers the rich cast of characters he's built out — from the morally ambiguous Golden Crusader to the villainous Wallace Tweed — and what it looks and feels like to world-build an entire superhero universe entirely on your own terms. You can follow Rodney and Black Starr on his site legendoftheblackstarr.com or on Instagram @legend_of_the_black_starr. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Writer Carlos Yacolca and editor Alberto Rayo join the show to talk Before We Sail, a post-apocalyptic graphic novella set in a crumbling Lima, Peru. Yacolca, making his comics-writing debut, explains how the whole project was sparked by a chance tweet from Rayo offering free editorial mentorship to the first person who replied — and how what began as a sprawling, geopolitical zombie story gradually evolved, through months of intensive feedback from Rayo and legendary V for Vendetta co-creator David Lloyd, into something leaner and more emotionally driven. The guys dig into what that editorial gauntlet looked like and how Yacolca's own experience living with chronic depression quietly shaped the story's themes of endurance and fragile hope. Rayo, whose credits include Heavy Metal Magazine, talks about what drew him to champion the project and what he looks for when working with debut creators. You can follow Carlos and Alberto on Instagram: @carlos_yacolca and @rayointhebottle. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

 A self-taught artist, Dakota Alexander has carved out a distinctive niche as a cover and pin-up artist with a deep passion for Golden Age characters and vintage aesthetics. On this episode, Dakota walks us through his path into comics — from posting artwork on Facebook and Reddit during the pandemic to landing commissions through projects like The Liberty Brigade and The Masters series, where his character sheets appear across multiple issues. Dakota also breaks down his meticulous process for recreating period-accurate Bronze Age art, from emulating the Kane/Romita Sr. Spider-Man house style to adding weathered newsprint textures and tweaking color balance to evoke faded, off-the-spinner-rack authenticity. You can follow Dakota on Etsy and Instagram @drumsoftheserpent. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Stephen Bissette and Chris Stevens join us to discuss the long-awaited return of Tyrant, Bissette's deeply personal, unfinished dinosaur epic from the 1990s, and the journey to finally bring it back through a new Kickstarter campaign. The conversation explores how Tyrant—a raw, almost documentary-style story following a Tyrannosaurus Rex's struggle to survive—became a cult favorite despite its original short run and lack of commercial success, as well as why Bissette had long resisted revisiting the project until renewed fan interest and Stevens' persistence convinced him the time was right. They dive into the painstaking process behind the deluxe editions, including high-end art reproduction from original pages and the inclusion of long-lost material, framing the project as both a restoration and a definitive presentation of a “lost masterpiece.” To learn more or support the project, check out the Tyrant Deluxe Editions Kickstarter here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/comicslighthouse/bissette-tyrant-deluxe-editions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Returning guest Chris Yates dives into his current Kickstarter campaign for Marcus Walker: Kingslayer Protocol, a kinetic sci-fi comic that blends hard-hitting action with compelling world-building in a dangerous future landscape. Chris reveals where the concept originated, introduces his creative team and their collaborative process, and explains the themes he's exploring while describing the tone readers can expect from the series. He also shares lessons learned from previous Kickstarter experiences that he's applying to this launch while addressing what sets Marcus Walker apart from other sci-fi comics.  Go back Marcus Walker: Kingslayer Protocol now: kck.st/4rUgASU! And you can follow Chris on Instagram @cyg47. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mark Spears joins us to reflect on his #comics career, including his extensive cover work—highlighting favorite pieces and his approach to creating compelling cover art that differs from interior storytelling—and the creation of his hit series Monsters that helped shape his creative journey. Mark shares insights on balancing roles as both writer and artist, the biggest challenges he's faced in the industry, and celebrates the release of Midknight Man #1, revealing the inspiration behind the distinctively-spelled hero, the concept and themes he's exploring, and what readers can expect from the debut issue. Go get Midknight Man #1 today (3/25/26) at your LCS! You can follow Mark and his work on the markspearsmonsters.com or by following him on Instagram @markspearsart. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Former member of the DC Comics publicity team Michael Shelling pulls back the curtain on what it's like generating buzz for major comic book launches and universe-wide events, sharing behind-the-scenes stories from campaigns he worked on and explaining the day-to-day responsibilities of comic book publicity in an increasingly crowded media landscape. Michael reveals the relationship between publicity teams and creative talent, discusses campaigns that exceeded expectations alongside those that didn't go as planned and the lessons learned, and reflects on the most challenging aspects of marketing comics versus other entertainment. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hive Head Studios founder Dennis Robinson recounts how he went from #comics fan to creator, explaining the vision behind launching his own studio and introducing Lycan: Solomon's Odyssey, an epic supernatural adventure following the world's first werewolf, Solomon, on a journey that blends horror and action-adventure. Dennis details what backers can expect from Chapter 4—currently live on Kickstarter—including where it fits in the overall story arc and whether he's building toward a definitive ending or crafting an ongoing saga. He also introduces his creative team, describing their collaborative process from script to finished art, and shares what distinguishes his take on werewolf mythology from other supernatural comics. Go back Lycan: Solomon's Odyssey Chapters 1-4 right now: http://kck.st/4rIDtbA. You can follow Dennis and Hive Head at hiveheadstudios.com or on Instagram @hiveheadstudios or @worldsmostokayestdm. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Malibu Comics founder and Platinum Studios CEO Scott Mitchell Rosenberg traces his path from launching one of the most innovative independent publishers of the 80s and 90s—pioneering computer coloring technology and creating the ambitious Ultraverse shared superhero universe—to becoming a major player in Hollywood adaptations with properties like Men in Black and Cowboys & Aliens that became blockbuster films. Scott reveals the story behind Malibu's groundbreaking titles, the decision to sell the company to Marvel in 1994, and his strategic pivot to founding Platinum Studios with a focus on developing intellectual properties specifically designed to work across both #comics and film/television. He reflects on memorable collaborations, projects that never made it to screen, what he's most proud of from the Malibu era, the biggest lessons learned from running a comic company during the industry's tumultuous 90s, and how the relationship between comics and Hollywood has evolved. You can follow Scott and Platinum Studios at platinumstudios.com or on Instagram @scottrosenberg. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Forged in Fire judge and blade expert Doug Marcaida, known for his iconic "It will KEAL" catchphrase, shares how he transitioned from martial arts and weapons expertise into creating comics. He introduces his series Lineage, which blends his authentic knowledge of combat and edged weapons into a compelling narrative with rich world-building and mythology. Doug explains the concept and inspiration behind Lineage, introduces the main characters and tone of the book, and details his current Kickstarter campaign for issues #2-4. He addresses how his expertise influences the authenticity of the action sequences, the challenges of creating his own comic series, and potential expansion into other media like games or animation. You can back Lineage on Kickstarter until 3/16 here: http://kck.st/4s63TE2. And you can follow Doug practically everywhere, including his site, dougmarcaida.com, Facebook @kuyaDougMarcaida, and Instagram @dougmarcaida. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special combined two-part interview, manga pioneer and Antarctic Press founder Ben Dunn shares the story of establishing one of America's first manga-focused publishers in 1984 and creating the long-running Ninja High School series in 1987. He reflects on how American audiences responded to manga-style storytelling in the 80s and 90s versus today and the challenges of sustaining a creator-owned series for over 100 issues. Ben also talks about his diverse body of work including Warrior Nun Areala—which was adapted into a Netflix series—and his innovative educational manga teaching spelling and grammar, while explaining Antarctic Press's approach to discovering and developing talent over nearly four decades. He offers perspective on the biggest challenges of running an independent publisher, what he's most proud of in his career, his view of the current state of manga and manga-inspired comics in America. You can follow Ben on his site, bendunncomics.com, on Facebook @BenDunn or on Instagram @bendunn25. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Returning guest Joseph Illidge reflects on his deep roots with the groundbreaking Milestone initiative that launched in 1993 with iconic characters like Static, Icon, and Hardware, tracing the lineage from the original Milestone Media through its integration into the DC Universe. We focus heavily on his just-released History of the DC Universe: Dakota Incident, which bridges different eras and continuities, breaking down what the "Dakota Incident" refers to and its significance to the Milestone story, his collaboration with other creators, and what both new readers and longtime fans will discover in the book. He addresses why Milestone's legacy remains vital to comics history, the challenges of keeping it alive and relevant over the years, and what he hopes audiences will take away from this latest chapter. You can follow Joe on his site, josephillidge.com, or on Instagram @illmasterone. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

World-renowned candy and snack food historian Jason Liebig, featured expert on the History Channel, discusses his journey from discovering #comics to building one of the most extensive vintage candy and snack packaging collections in existence. Liebig explores the strong connection between comics and candy culture through vintage advertisements and character tie-ins and shares memorable and surprising items from his collection, including the weirdest time-specific products he's uncovered. He also reveals the grail items still on his wish list, discusses what drives him to preserve this often-overlooked pop culture history through his website and social media, and offers advice for aspiring collectors. You can follow Jason on his site, jasonliebig.com, or on Instagram @collectingcandy. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In today's interview, Steve Houston of Torpedo Comics discusses his journey from comic book collector to shop owner and television expert. He shares the origin story of Torpedo Comics and what makes his Las Vegas store unique, particularly his specialization in high-value and graded books that led to his role as the go-to comics expert on History Channel's Pawn Stars. Steve reveals memorable moments from the show including rare and valuable finds, explains how appearing on one of television's most popular programs has changed his business, and breaks down his process for authenticating and appraising high-value comics. He highlights undervalued books and creators people should watch, addresses common misconceptions about the business, and reflects on how the industry has evolved. You can follow Steve on Instagram @stevesaysboom and Torpedo Comics virtually everywhere @torpedocomics. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special crossover event, Brad and Lisa Gullickson of the Comic Book Couples Counseling podcast discuss their unique approach blending relationship dynamics with comic book analysis, sharing heated on-air debates and titles they've both loved. We give special focus to their YouTube series The Stacks, which recently returned for a second season and features creators discussing their favorite #comics. Brad and Lisa explain their guest selection process, memorable and unexpected answers they've received, how the series has changed their thinking about comics fandom, and their dream guests for future episodes. CBCC is headquartered at comicbookcouplescounseling.com, and you can find the latest episodes of The Stacks on their YouTube channel:   youtube.com/@comicbookcouplescounseling. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this interview, writer, editor, and publisher James Aquilone discusses his journey into horror and weird fiction, founding Monstrous Books, and creating projects like the noir-horror-comedy Dead Jack, Zombie Detective alongside major anthologies such as Classic Monsters Unleashed and the Kolchak: The Night Stalker 50th Anniversary graphic novel. Aquilone reflects on what reviving the legendary Weird Tales brand means to him personally, details his new Kickstarter project including his approach to selecting contributors and the tone backers can expect, addresses the challenges of producing a legacy anthology in today's publishing landscape, and shares his Bram Stoker Award experience. Go back Weird Tales now at http://kck.st/3ZFaj0S! You can follow James at his site jamesaquilone.com or on Instagram @james_aquilone. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In today's interview, authors Jim Amash and Eric Nolen-Weathington discuss their new book, Jim Aparo: Brave & Bold Artist, exploring why they wanted to shine a spotlight on the legendary but perhaps underappreciated artist whose distinctive style—characterized by crisp inking, dramatic shadows, and expressive faces—defined Batman and other DC characters for generations of readers. The collaborators share insights from interviews and research into Aparo's life and career, highlighting his iconic run on The Brave and the Bold alongside essential work on Aquaman, Phantom Stranger, and The Spectre, while revealing lesser-known facts and surprises they uncovered about his creative process and collaborations. They discuss what readers can expect from the book, including rare original art and archival material, how Aparo adapted his approach to different characters, and what set him apart from his contemporaries. The book just came out this week (2/18/26 to be specific), and you can buy it on publisher TwoMorrows's site or wherever you get your books! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today we sit down with artist and writer Rae Allen to discuss her new series Carmen Red Claw: Belly of the Beast, co-written with Mike Mignola and set in the Hellboy Universe. Rae shares how she built Carmen, a supernatural gun-for-hire in the 1870s Southwest, from a tiny piece of Lobster Johnson lore that caught Mignola's attention, discussing her striking visual design and shoulder demon, her research into Lakota folklore, and the experience of creating inside the beloved Hellboy Universe. Issue #2 drops today (2/18/26), so go get it! You can follow Rae on her site, raeallenart.com, and on Instagram and X @raeallenart. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Indie creator Russ Kazmierczak is back on the Bandits, celebrating his crossing the 55-issue milestone of Amazing Arizona Comics, reflecting on how the series has evolved since his last appearance, and the challenges of maintaining a long-running independent series. Russ also dives deep into his 10th year participating in the 24-Hour Comic Challenge, explaining the concept, his process of balancing planning versus spontaneous creation during the grueling 24-hour window, and how his efficiency has improved over a decade. We also discuss this year's challenge issue specifically—including moments when he doubted he'd finish—while sharing advice for aspiring challengers and teasing what's next for his series. Check out back issues of Amazing Arizona Comics here: etsy.com/shop/KaraokeFanboyPress. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this middle episode of Indie Week, Snake (Scott Matthew Watson) discusses his journey from discovering comics to developing his own distinctive voice as a creator to detailing his new series Grinding Against the Marrow, a dark and visceral story that defies easy genre classification. Watson breaks down the striking title's meaning, introduces the series' key characters and their driving motivations, and discusses his collaboration with artist Mauro De Falco as well as the challenges and rewards of operating as a fully independent creator. He touches on his crowdfunding efforts, his own imprint, the reception the book has received within the indie comics community, and shares his long-term vision for the series. You can follow Snake on Instagram and Threads @snake87smw. And check out Grinding Against the Marrow here: globalcomix.com/read/43484e15-2bcb-4cfc-853d-201474665cb5/1. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In today's interview, indie creator Marvin Wynn discusses creating The Edge, a series blending elements of The Bourne Identity, The Fugitive, and Justice League of America that centers on characters with varied superpowers gained through exposure to a mysterious genetic-altering substance spreading globally. Marvin details his collaboration with Philippines-based artist Mark Vuycan Kiat since 2012, balancing comics creation between a second job and hobby, his involvement with the ComicsBurgh collective, and how the series has evolved from a planned 25-issue run to an ongoing story he'll continue as long as readers remain engaged. You can follow Marvin and The Edge on his site, theedgecomic.com, and on Instagram @theedgecomic. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Vintage toy collector and pop culture historian Brian Heiler pops by to discuss his collecting journey, explaining how his fascination with 70s and 80s ephemera led him to create Plaid Stallions, an extensive online archive that has become an invaluable resource for researchers and nostalgic fans alike. Heiler shares his process for acquiring and digitizing rare materials, reveals some of the weirdest and most obscure toy lines he's uncovered, and explores the deep connection between toy marketing and comic book characters during the golden age of action figures. He reflects on his favorite eras and toy lines, the holy grail items still on his wish list, and how the internet has transformed toy collecting communities. You can follow Brian on the Plaid Stallions website, plaidstallions.com, on YouTube @brickmantooth, or on Instagram @plaidstallions. Get his book, Knock-Offs: Totally Unauthorized Action Figures, on Amazon or wherever you get your books. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this interview celebrating the 25th anniversary of Ultimate Spider-Man, legendary artist Mark Bagley reflects on his career from winning the Marvel Try-Out Book contest through defining runs on New Warriors, Amazing Spider-Man, Thunderbolts, and his iconic collaboration with Brian Michael Bendis on Ultimate Spider-Man. Mark discusses the creative rhythm of working with Bendis for 111 issues, redesigning Peter Parker for a new generation, the groundbreaking decompressed storytelling that influenced his layouts, and the emotional depth that set the series apart. We also get into what makes his renditions of Spider-Man, Venom, and Carnage resonate with audiences, how his artistic process has evolved over the years, and his pride in Ultimate Spider-Man's lasting impact on comics. You can follow Mark on Facebook @MarkBagleyOfficial and Instagram @officialmarkbagleyart. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, we welcome Keith Finch to discuss his journey from #comics fan to creator, the founding of Full Service Comics, and his ambitious project adapting the obscure 1985 Morphodroids toy line into a comic book series. Finch explains the meta-narrative where the toys existed within the comic's universe, distinguishing Morphodroids from Transformers, and how he assembled an international team of twenty artists led by Sergio Ríos. He also describes how he connected with the toy line's creator to digitize vintage footage while incorporating extensive backmatter and crowdfunding through Kickstarter to bring this passion project to life. You can follow Keith on Instagram @realkeithfinch. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In our second editors roundtable episode, DC Comics veterans Paul Levitz, Mike Carlin, and Jack C. Harris discuss the realities of editorial work, from assembling creative teams and managing personalities, to the daily struggles that fans sometimes romanticize about the job. The three editors reflect on decisions they knew would be debated for decades, highlight each other's editorial strengths, and examine how DC's legacy characters and continuity both served and complicated storytelling over the years. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In the final installment of One of Us Week, Chris Piers of the Comic Tropes YouTube channel discusses his journey from a former real-life superhero to launching his educational and entertaining video series covering comic book trends and themes, creator histories, and lesser-known series and storylines. Chris details his research process, how he balances insightful analysis with comedy, and reflects on the show's evolution from focusing on recurring storytelling devices to broader comic analysis all while addressing the challenges of running a #comics YouTube channel. You can find Chris and Comic Tropes on YouTube (of course!), on Facebook @ComicTropesShow, on Instagram @comic_tropes, and on X @CTropes. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In our second edition of One of Us Week, hosts Robb Milne, Bryan Stratton, and Jamie Wenger of the Marvel by the Month podcast drop by to discuss their ambitious chronological journey through Marvel Comics history. They explain how they came together to launch the show, their approach to tackling Marvel's publication timeline month by month, their research process and selection criteria, and how chronological reading has reshaped their understanding of Marvel's creative evolution. We also discuss balancing guest interviews with monthly comic coverage,  favorite eras, surprising discoveries, and the practical challenges of their format—from handling months with varying publication densities to navigating complex crossovers. Follow their adventures at marvelbythemonth.com and anywhere you get podcasts! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In the inaugural episode of One of Us Week, host Dave Wexler opens up about how he built and manages two different comic shows — his West Coast Davengers YouTube channel, where he blends weekly live comic sales, guest interviews, and on-location con coverage with a fan-first energy, and his Direct Edition podcast, a weekly, free-form show that features in-depth conversations with creators and thinkers across the industry. Dave shares the origin stories of both shows, how he approaches making each episode, the lessons he's learned from interviewing comic legends, and what keeps him excited to create and connect with the community every week. You can keep up with Dave at his website, westcoastdavengers.com, look for West Coast Davengers on YouTube, and check out Direct Edition on all major podcast platforms! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.