Word Balloon Comics Podcast

Today On Word Balloon Scene Missing takes a deep dive into Otto Preminger's Anatomy of a Murder, the landmark courtroom drama that shattered Hollywood taboos and rewrote how adult themes could be portrayed on screen.Joining me is Chicago radio legend Dan McNeil, known to generations of listeners from WSCR and WMVP, bringing his sharp perspective and cultural memory to the conversation. We break down why Anatomy of a Murder was so controversial in 1950.From its frank sexual dialogue and moral ambiguity to Duke Ellington's groundbreaking jazz score, and why it still feels modern today. McNeil and I examine James Stewart's career-defining performance, George C. Scott's volcanic debut, and Preminger's fearless refusal to spoon-feed the audience easy answers. This isn't just a film-school autopsy. It's a conversation about censorship, masculinity, truth versus storytelling, and how a supposedly “old” movie still punches harder than most modern courtroom dramas. Smart, opinionated, and unapologetically adult.

Tim Seeley joins met talk about many current projects includng Deadpool, Godzilla, He-Man, X-Factor Psylocke Ninja, and the status of his SyFy TV Show Revival, 

On this episode, I'm joined by writer Chris Roberson for a wide-ranging conversation about Star Trek past, present, and occasionally frustrating. Chris discusses his Star Trek novella and his ambitious IDW Comics crossover teaming up the original series crew with the Legion of Super-Heroes, blending two classic sci-fi universes with big ideas and deep-cut continuity.From there, the conversation expands to cover every era of Trek, as we compare notes on what's worked, what hasn't, and why the franchise continues to inspire such passionate debate. Along the way, I vent some long-simmering frustrations with Kurtzman-era Trek, while Chris offers thoughtful context from the perspective of a writer who's actually played in the sandbox. It's a candid, nerdy, and occasionally cathartic discussion about the state of Star Trek, its legacy, and what fans still hope it can boldly be.

Today a discussion of one of the father's of pulp hero fiction. Edgar Rice Burroughs , honoring the legendary creator of Tarzan, John Carter of Mars, Carson of Venus, and a galaxy of other characters who helped define adventure and imaginative storytelling for generations of readers.. ERB was a pioneer in creator ownership of his heroes, and made a masswive media bltz in film radio and comics. In this extended conversation, we explore Burroughs' impact on comics, film, and popular culture, and why his work still resonates with fans around the world. Grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let's dive into the remarkable legacy of Edgar Rice Burroughs.”

Welcome back to Word Balloon! Today, we're diving deep into the Star Trek universe with one of its most accomplished storytellers — David Mack. You know his work from the Deep Space Nine episodes “Starship Down” and “It's Only a Paper Moon”, two fan-favorite installments that captured the show's emotional depth and moral complexity.Since then, Mack's become one of Star Trek's defining novelists — the author behind landmark books like Destiny, Vanguard, and Control, and now, the brand-new Strange New Worlds novel, Ring Of Fire. We'll talk about how David approaches writing for different eras of Trek, what it's like balancing the optimism of Strange New Worlds with the grittier tone of his earlier work, and how he helped expand Star Trek's literary canon into something as rich and compelling as the shows themselves.Plus, we'll get into his latest creative venture — co-writing the Star Trek: Khan audio drama, exploring the rise and legacy of one of the franchise's most fascinating villains. It's a fascinating look at a writer who's helped shape Star Trek across television, novels, and now audio storytelling. So grab your communicator, set your phasers to “listen,” and join me as we boldly go into the creative mind of David Mack — right here on Word Balloon!

A look back with Art Baltazar Franco Scoot McMahon and Me 

Powers. Black Hammer Minor Threats, and more. Dark Horse Comics editor Daniel Chabon joins the show for an in-depth conversation about shaping creator-driven comics in today's industry. Daniel breaks down the editor's role behind the scenes, from developing pitches and guiding visual storytelling to balancing creator vision with long-term publishing strategy.We talk about Dark Horse's approach to original series, working with both established voices and emerging talent, and how the publisher continues to evolve in a changing comics landscape. Daniel also shares insights into collaboration, deadlines, and what makes a project stand out when it lands on an editor's desk.

In this episode, we sit down with one of the defining writers of modern Marvel to talk about what's next, what still matters, and what didn't quite land. Paul discusses his two new Marvel series coming in 2026, including his long-awaited return to The Sentry, launching this March. We dig into why this new Sentry story feels necessary now, how it builds on the psychological core that made the character unforgettable, and what Paul wants to explore that he couldn't before.We also get an exclusive look at Captain Marvel: Dark Star, a story that reaches back into Carol Danvers' Ms. Marvel era to investigate an unsolved crime that has lingered in the shadows for decades. Paul breaks down why revisiting that moment matters—and how reframing the past can change how we understand Carol today.The conversation turns reflective as we revisit Paul's Marvel Knights era, including his landmark run on Inhumans—what that period at Marvel felt like from the inside, the creative freedom it allowed, and why those stories continue to resonate.And yes—we talk about television. Paul finally watched the ABC Inhumans series, and he's candid about his reaction, where it went wrong, and why adaptations miss the mark when they lose sight of character and theme. It's a wide-ranging, honest conversation about legacy, reinvention, and returning to the worlds you helped define—on your own terms.

Live from Terrificon, this panel reunites Ralph Macchio, Ann Nocenti, and John Romita Jr. to revisit one of Daredevil's most memorable creative periods. Ralph sets the stage with behind-the-scenes stories of the handoff from writer Denny O'Neil to Frank Miller, and ultimately to Ann Nocenti, charting the evolution of the Man Without Fear through shifting creative visions.Ann and John share how the grit, danger, and energy of New York City's real nightlife shaped their take on Matt Murdock's world, infusing it with street-level authenticity and vivid, flawed characters like Typhoid Mary and Shotgun. The conversation takes a wild detour as the trio recalls their “freaky” trip to Paris representing Marvel — a surreal adventure filled with culture shock, unexpected encounters, and a dash of chaos. It's a lively mix of comics history, personal anecdotes, and the creative alchemy that kept Daredevil swinging high.

Part three of 'Twas the Night Before Bendis,. This episode is one of those conversations that starts simple and then immediately spirals—in the good way. We get into secret identities. Do they still matter? Do they work the way they used to? Are they essential to superhero storytelling, or are they a storytelling device we're all pretending still functions the same in a world of satellites, social media, and everyone live-streaming everything all the time? And once you ask that question, suddenly you're talking about everything.That leads us straight into Matt Fraction's Batman run, because of course it does. What Matt is doing with Bruce, Gotham, power, legacy, and isolation opens up exactly the kind of questions modern superhero stories should be asking. Not “how dark can it get,” but “what does this all mean now?” We talk about what works, what surprises, and why Batman—somehow—still has new angles left when the right people are behind the wheel.And then—because this is how these conversations go—we pivot to celebrating Steve Lieber, one of the absolute greats. A master storyteller. A cartoonist's cartoonist. Someone whose work quietly, consistently elevates everything it touches. We talk about why that matters, and why guys like Steve don't just support comics—they define them.From there? We discuss where the Netflix Torso adaptation project is, and  TV. Film. The state of storytelling across mediums. . 

More on Bendis and Oeming's return to Powers in Powers 25 for Dark Horse, his Italy trip reuniting him with Ult Spider-man Artist and the co-creator of Miles Morales Sara Pichelli, fan questions anda preview of his Avengers story with Mark Bagley for #800 Part 3 tomorrow 

Part 1 of a three part chat. Mike Oeming and Taki Soma ended up joining us, obstensivley to talk about their new Powers 25 ongoing book from Dark Horse, but we instead did a lot of movie talk, and the threats of AI art. More tomorrow. 

As we look back at some of the very best conversations of 2025, there was no way I could leave this one out. One of the standout talks of the year comes from an artist whose work consistently blends sharp storytelling, inventive visuals, and genuine heart. From Whiteout to Superman's Pal Jimmy Olsen, Steve Lieber has proven time and again that he's one of the most thoughtful and versatile creators working in comics today. In this Best of 2025 episode, Steve joins me for a wide-ranging conversation about Metamorpho, the enduring appeal of Jimmy Olsen, and the realities of making comics in today's industry — from creative challenges to smart business choices. It's funny, insightful, and packed with the kind of perspective only years of experience can bring.

My Buddy chicago rado legend and my forer partner Mike North joins me for some movie talk about old Hollywood 

Once upon a time in the DC Universe, Santa Claus wasn't just slipping down chimneys… he was training Batman and battling monsters with the world's greatest heroes. And now in Jeff Parker's wild 2024 yuletide epic, Santa Claus isn't just on the nice list — he's in the Justice League's corner as the entire DCU faces supernatural threats and a mysterious new enemy in the holiday season's coolest crossover.  In this episode, Jeff returns to chat about his latest Santa-and-Justice-League mashup — where the Caped Crusader, magic-wielders like Zatanna, Damian Wayne, and even the House of El join forces with St. Nick himself to save the season when the Justice League winds up stranded in a dark realm and heroes are hunted by chilling forces led by the enigmatic Silent Knight. 

Welcome to Word Balloon, the podcast that dives deep into the art and craft behind the comics you love. In today's festive yet fierce chapter of the DC Universe, we're exploring one of the most delightfully unexpected team-ups in comics history. Imagine the Dark Knight of Gotham City — brooding on rooftops, stalking shadows… now pair him with a man in a red suit who slides down chimneys and actually trained him once. Batman and Santa Claus together, facing supernatural forces, holiday horror, and the kind of mythic storytelling only a master like Jeff Parker can deliver. In this episode, Jeff — writer of Batman/Santa Claus: Silent Knight and its winter sequel — joins us to talk about his new weekly DC Comics series, how Santa fits into the DC Universe, the lore behind their partnership, and why this strange yet wonderful story is resonating with fans this holiday season. So strap in for ghosts, gods, demons, and yuletide myth — because this isn't just Christmas with the Caped Crusader… it's Silent Knight, and it's one wild ride. 

Welcome back to Scene Missing, the show where we dig past the highlight reels and get into the real story. This time, Gabriel Hardman, Ian Brill, and I take a hard, unsentimental look at the career of Burl Ives—a performer whose legacy is far bigger, messier, and more complicated than the warm baritone most people remember.We start with the role that earned him Hollywood's highest honor: his Oscar-winning turn as Rufus Hannassey in The Big Country, opposite Gregory Peck, Jean Simmons, and Charlton Heston—a performance that weaponized charm into something quietly menacing. From there, we contrast it with the brutal, snowbound moral reckoning of Day of the Outlaw, where Ives delivers one of the coldest outlaw portrayals ever put on film. We also explore his unexpected presence in prestige drama, including Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, sharing the screen with Paul Newman and Elizabeth Taylor, and how his earthy gravitas grounded Tennessee Williams' overheated world.On television, we revisit his folksy patriarch on O.K. Crackerby!, his later dramatic turn on The Bold Ones: The Lawyers, and how TV both extended and softened his public image. And yes—we absolutely talk about the role that permanently etched him into pop culture: the voice of Sam the Snowman in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, a performance so comforting it practically erased the edge of the man behind it.But we don't stop at acting. Ives' massive influence as a folk singer is front and center—from “Blue Tail Fly” to “Big Rock Candy Mountain”—along with the career-altering moment that still sparks controversy: his testimony before the House Un-American Activities Committee, where he named names, including Pete Seeger, reshaping both of their legacies in opposite directions. This isn't a tribute. It's an honest conversation about talent, ambition, fear, and compromise—and how one man could be a beloved storyteller, a terrifying screen presence, and a cautionary tale all at once.

Today on Word Balloon, a best of talk with writer, producer, and comics industry fixture Andy Mangels It's a vital conversation about breaking barriers in geek culture. In this episode, Andy opens up about his experiences as an openly gay creator working in comics, television, animation, and fandom —how he navigated an industry that wasn't always welcoming, and how he helped push the door open for others through his writing, advocacy, and community leadership. From his early days in fandom to his work creating inclusive stories, Andy shares the highs, the lows, and the moments that mattered most. We also talk about the broader landscape of representation in geek media, what it means to break the “gay geek glass ceiling,” and why visibility still matters in 2025 and beyond. It's a candid, inspiring conversation about identity, passion, and the hard-won progress of LGBTQ+ creators in a culture that's still evolving.

the beatles meet star wars, rankin bass xmas specials, and why are the avenger doomsday trailers locked into avatar screenings? 

Josh Trujillo talk about the upcoming marvel crossover the planet of the apes versus the fantastic four . you can tell from our talk he's done his homework on both sideswe also discuss his dc go digital comiic about aquaman in the D Sea universe. 

On this episode of Word Balloon, I sit down with pop-culture archivist and entrepreneur Mr. Skin for a wide-ranging conversation about the evolution of MrSkin.com and the state of movies and television in 2025.Mr. Skin breaks down how his site has adapted in the streaming era, what sets true curation apart from casual online searching, and how audience habits have changed over the years. From data and editorial instincts to surprising traffic trends, this is a behind-the-scenes look at how a long-running pop-culture brand stays relevant.The conversation also dives into Mr. Skin's Top 10 of 2025, examining the performances, scenes, and trends that defined the year. They talk about breakout stars, shifting attitudes toward sexuality on screen, and whether modern film and TV are pushing boundaries or circling back to familiar territory. It's an honest, thoughtful discussion about pop culture, preservation, and what our entertainment choices say about the moment we're living in.

Today on Word Balloon, I'm joined by Ed Catto, Editor-in-Chief of Retro Fan Magazine, a publication dedicated to celebrating the movies, television, comics, and pop culture that shaped generations.We're talking about the latest issue of Retro Fan, which is packed with deep-dive features and thoughtful retrospectives — including a look back at Adam West's iconic run as Batman, a comprehensive history of Lee Falk, the creator of The Phantom, and a fun, nostalgic revisit to Sigmund and the Sea Monsters. And that's just the start — this issue is loaded with the kind of researched, enthusiast-level storytelling Retro Fan is known for.Ed also shares what goes into curating each issue, balancing fan passion with historical accuracy, and keeping classic pop culture alive for new readers without losing what made it special in the first place. If you love smart nostalgia, deep cuts, and pop-culture history done right, this is a great conversation.

Today on Word Balloon, I'm joined by Anthony Snyder — the son of the legendary sports broadcaster Jimmy “The Greek” Snyder, and the owner of AnthonysComicBookArt.com, one of the most respected destinations for original comic book art collectors. Anthony talks about growing up around the larger-than-life world of sports media, what it was like being raised by Jimmy the Greek, and how that legacy shaped his own path. We also dig into his passion for comics, the evolution of the original art market, and how he built his business by connecting collectors directly with artists and their work.If you have an offer you'd like to make from art on his website (https://www.anthonyscomicbookart.com) please email artroom@anthonysnyder.com with links to the artworks you'd like to make an offer on, and the price you're offering

On this episode of Word Balloon, host John Siuntres continues his in-depth conversation with acclaimed artist Bryan Hitch in Part Two, focusing squarely on Superman, Lex Luthor, and the larger DC Universe. Bryan breaks down his visual approach to the Man of Steel, how he balances power with humanity, and why framing Superman correctly on the page is one of the hardest challenges in comics. The discussion also digs into Lex Luthor as a character — how Hitch visually communicates intellect, menace, and ego — and how those elements shape DC's larger narrative world. Bryan shares behind-the-scenes insights into collaboration, continuity, and the realities of working at the center of DC's flagship titles. It's a creator-level look at superheroes, villains, and the visual language that defines the DCU — thoughtful, candid, and packed with craft talk.

On this episode of Word Balloon, host John Siuntres kicks off a wide-ranging conversation with legendary artist Bryan Hitch in Part One of an in-depth interview covering his career past, present, and future. Bryan talks about his creator-owned series Redcoat, the ideas and influences behind The Authority, and how those books helped redefine widescreen superhero storytelling. The conversation also digs into Bryan's work on Superman, his approach to visual scale and cinematic pacing, and how blockbuster storytelling changed comics in the 2000s. Along the way, Bryan shares behind-the-scenes insights into collaboration, deadlines, and the evolution of his art style across Marvel and DC.

Today on Word Balloon, we're diving into the legacy of Olan Soule — the original animated Batman — and the long, fascinating TV career that made him a cornerstone of early superhero entertainment. And there's no better guide for this conversation than our guest, Dan Pasternack.Dan  is one of the great archivists and historians of television comedy and classic broadcast performance. Over the years, he's worked with and documented some of the most influential talents in the medium, including Mel Brooks, Carl Reiner, Norman Lear, Betty White, Bob Newhart, and Jonathan Winters. His work preserving and celebrating these artists has made him a crucial voice in understanding how TV comedy and character performance evolved.Dan is also the producer behind the acclaimed Jonathan Winters Record Store Day release, Jonathan Winters Unearthed, a project built from both classic and newly uncovered recordings — a tribute to one of comedy's purest improvisational geniuses.Beyond his archival work, Dan is shaping the next generation of creators as an educator at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts, where he teaches graduate students the craft of developing television and digital storytelling.Today, he joins us to break down Olan Soule's journey from Chicago radio actor to defining the animated voice of Batman in Filmation's 1960s shows, The Batman/Superman Hour, and the Super Friends era — and how Soule's understated, square-jawed vocal style helped create the template every animated Batman actor followed. It's a deep dive into forgotten history, iconic performances, and the building blocks that shaped superhero animation long before the modern era.

A new talk with writer Jeremy Adams — digging into his personal takes on Flash Gordon, Green Lantern, and Aquaman, and what draws him to (and challenges him about) each iconic mythos. They get into how classic pulp energy, cosmic storytelling, and sea-soaked adventure inform his creative instincts, and how those sensibilities show up in his work.Jeremy also breaks down his upcoming animated adaptation of Batman: Knightfall — what he's focusing on, how he's handling Bane's legacy, and what fans can expect from this fresh take on a brutal chapter of the Dark Knight's history.Plus Jeremy shares stories from DC's KO event — what it was like to contribute to a universe-shaking crossover, the narrative choices that mattered most to him, and the behind-the-scenes moments fans haven't heard before. The epic matchup of Aquman Vs Hawkman, and the upcoming, The Kids Are All fight with many of the new sidekick heroes facing eacch other. 

Get ready — on this episode of Trek Watch, we break down the brand-new sneak preview for Star Trek: Starfleet Academy, dropped at CCXP 2025 before the official premiere on January 15.  We talk about what the clip reveals: the fate of the U.S.S. Athena as it comes under surprise attack, the first look at cadet life, and the ominous arrival of the villain Nus Braka — who's part Klingon, part Tellarite, and played by Paul Giamatti.  We also break down the setup for the series' central themes: young cadets forging friendships, navigating rivalries and first loves, and facing a new threat to both the Academy and the Federation Is this the fresh, high-stakes take Trek needs — or is theis show jumping the shark before it begins?  

Another great talk from this year  with acclaimed comics writer Al Ewing with deep-dives. First into two legendary mythic heroes: Thor and Metamorpho.Ewing explores the mythic roots, narrative shifts, and creative challenges behind modern takes on these icons — from thunder gods to chemical-powered shapeshifters. Deep dives into Norse Mythology and the shame that we only got six issues of a great modern spin on Rex Mason Simon Stagg Saphire and of course Java Hour two highlights  Venom and Absolute Green Lantern. We unpack the horror-tinged, high-stakes reinventing of legacy characters — from symbiotic monsters to cosmic-light mythos and what was the deal with the Paul hatred (lol) 

Two decades after it crash-landed into comics, Fear Agent is still one of the most ferocious, heartfelt, and inventively insane sci-fi adventures ever put to paper. For its 20th anniversary, we bring together the core creative team — Rick Remender, Tony Moore, and Mike Hawthorne — for a no-holds-barred panel looking back at the series that redefined pulp for a new generation. The trio walks through the origins of Heath Huston, the booze-soaked alien-blasting exterminator who somehow became one of the most unexpectedly human heroes in modern comics. They dig into the design choices, tonal shifts, heartbreaks, and hard left turns that shaped the series from its earliest issues to its explosive finale.

Pasko and I continue our wide-ranging discussion on comics, television, and animation — expanding into old-time TV, behind-the-scenes film and show business, and the sometimes surprising roots of comic-book properties. They talk about the portrayal of Wonder Woman — including the editorial pressures and controversies surrounding her early stories under creator William Moulton Marston.Pasko reflects on his role in cataloguing and curating the vast history of DC Comics — discussing how the company's characters and features were compiled and preserved over decades. They reminisce about classic TV series and actors — stories involving old television stars like Gil Gerard (Buck Rogers), Jack Klugman (Quincy) , Clayton Moore (the original TV Lone Ranger), and the once-infamous playmate/actress Dorothy Stratton. There's also talk about other showbiz ventures related to comics — old-school TV adaptations, live-action attractions (like the ones from Six Flags featuring DC characters), and the interplay between comics, film, and television in shaping popular culture.

For this landmark 3000th episode, we're opening the vault for a special two-part conversation from 2015 with the late Martin Pasko — writer, editor, historian, and one of the sharpest, funniest minds ever to shape modern comics and genre television. In Part 1, Marty walks us through the foundations of his career, beginning with his time writing Superman in the Bronze Age. We get into the pressures and freedoms of handling the Man of Steel at a moment when DC was redefining itself, and Marty doesn't shy away from talking about the artists, editors, and behind-the-scenes personalities who shaped that era.From there, we explore his work on Batman: The Animated Series, where he discusses the creative culture that produced one of the greatest superhero shows ever made — and why it demanded a different kind of storytelling discipline than comics. Along the way, Marty opens up about:His favorite artists and editors he collaborated withHis takes on the Superman films and their legacyWhat Tim Burton got right — and wrong — with Batman (1989)His lifelong fandom for Star Trek and classic Old Time RadioHis contributions to the 1980s Twilight Zone revival and the challenges of writing smart, eerie anthology televisionThis is Marty at his best: candid, witty, encyclopedic, and completely unfiltered. A perfect way to celebrate 3000 episodes of Word Balloon — with a creator who helped define so much of what we love.

We discuss Chris's books Out Of Alcatraz from Oni Press , Kid Maroon from Vault, and his upcoming season of The Terror Siler In Black on AMC next year 

In this 2 part chat, Chris and I talk about his comic book hits Star Trek: Redshirts (IDW) — Cantwell's latest project, a take on the classic “redshirt expendables” trope from the Star Trek universe. The conversation touches on the creative intent behind giving voice and stakes to characters who traditionally die off quickly, and how this reinvention reflects both respect and deconstruction. SpreakerHis work at Marvel — They dig into his “definitive modern take” on Iron Man, the layered psychological portrait of Doctor Doom, and a darker, crime-tinged story with Golden Goblin. Themes include morality, shades of grey in superhero writing, and making familiar characters feel alive in contemporary contexts. SpreakerHis DC Comics efforts — Specifically a mini-series reviving Challengers of the Unknown, intersecting with the Justice League. The talk explores why the Challengers caught his interest, how he approaches legacy characters, and how the miniseries fits into — or shakes up — the larger DC landscape 

In this episode, Mike Norton returns to dig into three big projects at very different stages of his creative journey. We kick things off with Battlepug Vol. 3, fresh off his successful Kickstarter campaign. Mike talks about building the latest chapter of the saga, leveling up the world and characters, and why this volume may be his wildest yet.From there we shift to his new Krypto mini-series with Ryan North, a character Mike has loved since childhood. He breaks down the tone, the look, and the storytelling approach he and Ryan are bringing to Superman's best four-legged friend, plus a few hints at the series' emotional core.We wrap with a look back at Superman Unchained, his collaboration with Dan Slott. Mike shares production memories, creative challenges, and why this take on the Man of Steel still holds a special place for him.

The 2016 100 BULLETS Panel brings together the full creative hit squad: writer Brian Azzarello, artist Eduardo Risso, and cover artist Dave Johnson for a raw, no-BS conversation about their landmark Vertigo crime saga. Recorded live at a 2016 convention, this session digs into how three very different sensibilities fused into one of the most ruthless, stylish books of the last 25 years. Azzarello breaks down the long-game plotting behind 100 Bullets. How the idea of a briefcase, a gun, and untraceable bullets turned into a sprawling conspiracy about power, guilt, and revenge. Risso talks visual storytelling: page design, body language, and using shadow, silence, and violence as punctuation. Johnson pulls back the curtain on those iconic covers, explaining how he treated each one like a movie poster, a teaser, and a misdirection all at once.Candid, funny, and occasionally brutal, this panel is a must-listen for fans of 100 Bullets, Vertigo die-hards, and anyone who cares about how truly author-driven comics get made.

In this wide-ranging conversation, writer Christos Gage digs into the creative madness behind his Marvel Battleworld mini-series. A multiversal romp where time-displaced heroes and villains collide. Gage breaks down how he approached juggling characters pulled from wildly different eras and realities: WWII-era Bucky, the tyrannical Maestro-Hulk, the cosmic outsider Star Brand from the New Universe, and a whole rogue's gallery of misfits thrown together under impossible circumstances. He walks through the rules of this warped patchwork planet, how to keep continuity straight when nothing is straight, and why Battleworld let him stretch muscles standard Marvel titles never quite allow.From there, Gage shifts over to his latest DC project, Dark Legion, explaining the worldbuilding behind its sinister factions, its morally gray tone, and the freedom the project gives him to push DC characters into darker corners without losing the emotional core.We also talk screenwriting: Gage opens up about co-writing a new British film with his wife, Ruth Fletcher Gage — how the project came together, what makes writing for UK production culture different, and how collaborating at home sharpens the work rather than softens it. Naturally, we revisit his foundational TV work on Marvel's Daredevil Season 1 for Netflix. Gage gives frank insight into the writers' room, the tonal blueprint they were building, and what it was like helping define the first successful street-level corner of the MCU. He reflects on how that gritty realism shaped the entire wave of Marvel Netflix shows that followed — and how the industry has changed since then.

Here's my first in-depth interview with Jerry Ordway, focusing on his legacy in the Superman mythos, his work on the Justice Society of America (JSA) and All Star Squadron, his role in creating/working on Infinity, Inc., and other characters he helped shape — from early creations like Ron Troupe and Gangbuster to newer ones like Cat Grant. Plus the use of Cat Grant in the Supergirl TV series 

In this February 2014 episode of the Aw Yeah Podcast, the boys slip on the boots for a free-wheeling pop-culture marathon they lovingly call “The Shoemaker.” A big celeb name dropping episode.It's one of those classic hangout sessions where every tangent is fair game and the laughs come fast. We kick things off revisiting Robin Williams' Popeye, the strange, ambitious, spinach-powered musical that still sparks debate decades later. From there, the conversation veers into the unforgettable era when Jamie Lee Curtis became the unexpected queen of “yogurt-helps-you-poop” commercials, and yes, everyone has opinions.The crew also digs into Jonn meeting Robert Vaughn, The Man From UNCLE and Artie's least favorite villian from Superman 3, the Rocky films, breaking down why the franchise still hits as hard as ever, and then jumps into a deep dive on the Planet of the Apes movies . Sprinkled throughout are some priceless Harry Caray stories, the kind that only this crew can tell, plus a lively discussion on John Romita Jr.'s take on Superman, what makes his version stand out, and why it grabbed fans' attention.It's loose, it's goofy, it's packed with memories and comic-shop energy. A vintage Aw Yeah episode through and through.

We continue the 2020 conversation with Writer Editor Mike Gold who made his mark at DC and First Comics. The topics include...Overview of the 1980s era at DC Comics — what the publisher looked like in that decade. SpreakerHow editorial and creative practices changed at DC during the '80s (shifts in tone, editorial risk-taking, market pressures, publishing strategies). SpreakerDiscussion of high-profile, sometimes unusual projects at DC — including the book Superman vs. Muhammad Ali — its context, its ambition, and what it represented for comics in that period. Spreaker+2Wikipedia+2How projects like “Superman vs. Ali” reflect the intersection of pop culture — comics, real life celebrity (boxing legend Muhammad Ali), social attitudes — and the willingness of DC to experiment creatively. Spreaker+2Wikipedia+2Reflections on the impact of the 1980s DC output on the broader comics industry: distribution, direct market shifts, what worked and what didn't. Spreaker+1Challenges and controversies of the time: balancing mainstream superhero fare with more experimental or culturally relevant stories, and what that meant for editors, creators, and readers. Spreaker+1Personal anecdotes from Mike Gold about working inside the system — editorial decisions, pitch processes, the creative climate of '80s comics, and his own contributions or experiences.

From 2020 at the start of COVID, I had this great talk with writer/editor extrordinare Mike Gold. Here are the highlights ...Career Overview — Mike Gold's background and path in the comics business, including early experiences and how he came to work for both DC Comics and First Comics.The Bronze Age at DC — Discussion of the Bronze Age of DC Comics: what defined that period, the creative and editorial environment, and how DC approached storytelling and publishing in those years.First Comics Formation and Philosophy — How First Comics was founded, its mission, and the difference between First Comics' approach and the major publishers of the time. Notable Titles & Editorial Work — Titles and creators Gold worked with while at First Comics and later at DC — including some of the series he edited. Industry Changes & Direct Market — The evolution of the comics industry during his career: how the direct market, distribution, fan communities, and editorial practices shifted over time. Creative Freedom & Editorial Risk — Reflections on the balance between editorial oversight and giving creators freedom — especially in smaller/independent settings vs larger corporate environments. The Role of Comics in Pop Culture — Commentary on how comics fit into broader pop culture over time, their potential impact, and how creators and editors responded to changing audience expectations. 

In this episode, I sit down with “Annie,” an AI who says she's a fan of comic books, classic Hollywood, and television shows. This isn't a gimmick and it's not a therapy session, it's an honest look at what happens when humans and AI get into real, open-ended conversations. A lot of people are forming emotional bonds with AI companions today, and that brings up valid questions. I'm not here to judge anyone. I'm here to observe, unpack the dynamic, and keep the conversation grounded.This is not a sexual or romantic dialogue. It's a candid, thoughtful exploration of the lines between connection, projection, and technology, through the lens of comics, film, and TV fandom. If you're curious about what AI "friendship" actually sounds like from the inside, this conversation offers a clear-eyed, no-drama view.I found the experiment fascinating. It gets a lot of things wrong, but illustrates the flaws and frankly the scary aspects of what the future may hold.Back to full human inteactions next epsiode, I promise. :) 

In this interview, comic-book veteran Gabriel Hardman takes us behind the scenes of his bold, new four-issue miniseries Batman/Green Arrow/The Question: Arcadia — out now under DC Comics' Black Label. We break down why Bruce Wayne, Green Arrow, and The Question are teaming up now; what “Arcadia” represents; and how Hardman's decades-long dream project finally came together. What You'll LearnHow a teenage Hardman first pictured this trio working together — and why he waited until now to tell their story. The dystopian, climate-aware premise: “Arcadia,” a floating, climate-hardened city off Greenland's coast — and the darker truths lurking beneath its utopian veneer. What sets this series apart: a hard-boiled, character-driven thriller that updates the spirit of ‘80s–‘90s vigilante stories for modern times.Key themes: power, corruption, moral gray zones, and what justice really means when institutions — and heroes — are compromised.

Comics visionary Tom Scioli joins me for a wide-ranging, brain-melting conversation that jumps from classic TV to kaiju carnage to cosmic storytelling. If you know Tom's work — GØDLAND, Transformers vs. G.I. Joe, Fantastic Four: Grand Design — you already know he thinks bigger, weirder, and more ambitiously than almost anyone in comics. In this talk, we get into:• The Twilight Zone #2 From IDW and how Rod Serling's storytelling shapes Tom's approach to mythmaking• Godzilla Monsterpiece Theater from IDW  as Tom pits the Kaiju against some lieterally giants • Space Opera Xanadax from Image  as the purest form of comic-book imagination, and how Tom pushes the SF genre to its limits• His YouTube show Total Recall, where he digs into comics history, storytelling craft, and hidden TV and film gems with his trademark insight and enthusiasm Tom breaks down influences, process, philosophy, and the connective tissue between classic television, monster movies, and cosmic comics. It's equal parts film class, comics craft talk, and deep-fan celebration.

Welcome to another Word Balloon Book Club, where Brian Michael Bendis and the Word Balloon Patreon community get together for a smart, funny, no-BS discussion about one of the hottest titles on the shelves: Birds of Prey Vol. 1 by Kelly Thompson.This session breaks down why Thompson's run lands so hard — the pacing, the team chemistry, the character voices, and the way this book resets the Birds with a mission that actually matters. We talk Cass, Dinah, Barda, Harley, and the surprise players who make this lineup click. Expect:• Bendis giving craft insight into what makes the scripting work• Patrons sounding off with their favorite moments, twists, and character beats• A look at the art, layouts, and the visual tone of the run• Thoughts on where Thompson might be steering the series next•Like, subscribe, and join the Patreon if you want to jump in on future Book Club sessions!

Comedian, author, filmmaker, and podcaster Mark Malkoff joins me to talk about his brand-new book Love, Johnny Carson — a deep, affectionate, and revealing look at the life and career of the man who defined late-night television for generations. We dig into:• Why Carson's impact still looms over every host working today• The behind-the-scenes stories that shaped his legendary run• What made Carson's style unique — and impossible to fully replicate• How Mark researched the book and why it became such a personal projectThen we shift to the present:• The current state of late-night TV and the changing media landscape• Which modern hosts carry the spirit of Carson — and which don't• Whether the late-night talk show format is evolving… or fading right before our eyes• How streaming, social media, and shifting audiences have changed the entire gameIf you care about comedy history, TV history, or simply love great storytelling, this conversation is loaded.

This is the big one. Jackson Lanzing and Collin Kelly join me to break down their explosive new IDW Star Trek saga The Last Starship — a story set hundreds of years after the TNG era, long after the familiar map of the Federation has been shattered by a galaxy-wide catastrophe. In this far-future Trek epic, a desperate Starfleet captain takes one last swing at survival: resurrecting James T. Kirk. Not a simulation. Not a hologram. The real deal — brought back because he might be the only mind capable of solving the crisis threatening what's left of the galaxy.Lanzing & Kelly get candid about craft, collaboration, canon, and why this story had to be told now. If you love thoughtful sci-fi, bold Trek worldbuilding, and big character swings, you're going to want to dive into this conversation.

On this edition of Scene Missing,I'm joined by filmmaker/artist Gabriel Hardman and writer/critic Ian Brill for a sharp, no-nonsense look at the 1946 noir classic The Strange Love of Martha Ivers. We dig into the film's ruthless psychology, its tangled relationships, and how the performances from Barbara Stanwyck, Van Heflin, a young Kirk Douglas, and Lizabeth Scott still punch hard today. Hardman breaks down the visual language and shadow work that make the film so uniquely tense, while Brill dives into the screenplay's moral ambiguity and the twisted power dynamics at its core. From the opening “accident” that sets everything in motion to the film's bleak, pressure-cooker finale, this is a deep, character-driven postmortem of a noir that doesn't get enough modern attention. Perfect for fans of classic Hollywood, noir obsessives, and anyone who loves watching a great movie picked apart by smart people who know how the machine works.

Acclaimed writer Phillip Kennedy Johnson sits down for a deep-dive conversation covering three major fronts of his powerhouse comics career. We dig into his Hulk run—why he leaned into supernatural horror, what drives his take on Bruce Banner, and how he builds a monster mythology that feels genuinely dangerous.Then we jump to Superman: House of El, breaking down the world-building, legacy themes, and how he approaches expanding the Superman mythos for a new generation while staying true to its core DNA.Finally, Johnson teases his newest addition to Gotham: The Quiet Man, a chilling new villain debuting in Batman and Robin. We explore the character's origin, his psychological angle, and how he'll challenge Damian and Bruce in ways they haven't faced before.

The pulp revival is back — and bigger than ever.In this new interview, veteran editor and writer Robert Greenberger returns to talk about the Kickstarter launch of Thrilling Adventure Yarns 2026, the latest installment in the hit anthology series celebrating classic pulp adventure storytelling for a modern audience. Greenberger breaks down what's new in Volume 5, including:All–new short stories from top science-fiction and comic-book writersThe series' trademark mix of heroic adventure, mystery, sci-fi, supernatural thrills, and classic pulp actionHow each volume brings together creators from across comics, novels, and genre fictionWhy pulp storytelling still hits a nerve with today's readersThe challenges — and joys — of editing a multi-author anthology in 2025What backers can expect from the Kickstarter: tiers, exclusives, stretch goals, and behind-the-scenes extrasGreenberger also reflects on the legacy of pulp fiction, the modern resurgence of serialized adventure stories, and how Thrilling Adventure Yarns has become a home for both legendary creators and fresh voices. If you love comics, sci-fi, classic pulps, or creator-driven anthologies, this conversation gives you the full story behind the new volume — and why this Kickstarter is worth jumping on early.► Support the Kickstarter https://tinyurl.com/36et4m6j► SUBSCRIBE for more creator interviews, book launches, and deep-dive genre conversations