Word Balloon Comics Podcast

  • Autor: Vários
  • Narrador: Vários
  • Editor: Podcast
  • Duración: 1281:17:49
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Sinopsis

1 on 1 interview show featuring the creative minds behind Comics TV Film Novels & Animation. Hosted by Chicago Pop Culture expert, John Siuntres

Episodios

  • Keith Williams shares Marvel and DC Memories

    24/07/2025 Duración: 32min

    In this episode of Word Balloon, we sit down with a veteran of the comic book trench Keith Williams an accomplished inker whose brushwork has brought some of the most iconic characters to life. From helping define the look of the Black-suited Spider-Man during a pivotal era in Marvel history, to adding depth and shadow to the Man of Steel’s adventures at DC, and even contributing to the legacy of The Phantom in the newspaper strips, this is a career that spans decades and genres.

  • Beau Smith Talks Earp, Guy Gardner, and the Man of Steel

    23/07/2025 Duración: 01h07min

    On this episode of Word Balloon, we're talking with the legendary Beau Smith — a true cowboy of comics. From creating the cult favorite Wynonna Earp to seeing it ride high as a hit TV series, Beau’s journey is as action-packed as his stories. We dig into the roots of Wynonna, and how he’s now teaming up with the show's stars Melanie Scrofano and Tim Rozon to bring new adventures to the page.But that's just the start. Beau shares his unfiltered thoughts on the new Superman movie, and why he thinks the portrayal of Guy Gardner may be the most accurate DC Comics adaptation to date — especially considering he wrote the book on Guy. We also hit the DC vaults to revisit Beau’s time writing Catwoman, Wildcat, and other unsung gems that show his knack for tough characters with heart. If you love straight-talking creators and behind-the-scenes insight from someone who's lived it, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

  • Trek Watch Strange NewWorlds Season 3 eps 1 and 2

    22/07/2025 Duración: 01h58min
  • "Can NEON ICHIBAN Break Amazon's Grip on Digital Comics?"

    21/07/2025 Duración: 01h04min

    Today we’re talking digital comics, innovation, and disruption — past, present, and future. I’m joined by two key figures who changed the game once… and are looking to do it again. David Steinberger and Chip Mosher, the co-founders of Comixology, are here to talk about their bold new venture: Neon Ichiban — a next-gen digital comics marketplace built to empower creators, preserve ownership, and rebuild trust in the digital reading experience.In this conversation, we dig into their Comixology origin story, the Amazon acquisition and aftermath, and why they believe now is the time to reboot what digital comics should be. From creator-first economics to indie publishing opportunities, this is a candid, no-BS look at the challenges and potential of reinventing comics distribution from the ground up — again.

  • Breaking Down the Boldest Superman Film Yet Part 2

    20/07/2025 Duración: 01h25min

    Part 2 of our Superman movie review extravaganza!I’ve assembled a Fortress-worthy roundtable of Superman experts and superfans to unpack every detail — the triumphs, the missteps, the Easter eggs, and the big swings this movie takes with the Man of Steel. Joining me are former Superman comic creators Art Baltazar and Franco, the award-winning duo behind Tiny Titans, Superman of Smallville, and Superman Family Adventures. We’re also joined by Scoot McMahon, cartoonist and die-hard Superman fan, Terrificon founder and host Mitch Hallock, and our Canadian correspondent and longtime Word Balloon contributor, Wayne from Canada.From legacy nods to cinematic risks, from casting choices to Kryptonian lore — nothing is off-limits as we break it all down over two jam-packed episodes. So grab your cape, turn on the spoiler shield, and let’s dive into Part 2 of our Superman movie review extravaganza!

  • Truth, Justice, and a slightly Divided Fandom: Spoiling the New Superman Film

    20/07/2025 Duración: 01h34min

    today we’re kicking off a special two-part deep dive into the most talked-about superhero film of the summer — the brand new Superman movie. And let me be clear: this one is spoiler-heavy, so if you haven’t seen the film yet, you’ve been warned.I’ve assembled a Fortress-worthy roundtable of Superman experts and superfans to unpack every detail — the triumphs, the missteps, the Easter eggs, and the big swings this movie takes with the Man of Steel. Joining me are former Superman comic creators Art Baltazar and Franco, the award-winning duo behind Tiny Titans, Superman of Smallville, and Superman Family Adventures. We’re also joined by Scoot McMahon, cartoonist and die-hard Superman fan, Terrificon founder and host Mitch Hallock, and our Canadian correspondent and longtime Word Balloon contributor, Wayne from Canada.From legacy nods to cinematic risks, from casting choices to Kryptonian lore — nothing is off-limits as we break it all down over two jam-packed episodes. So grab your cape, turn on the spoiler shie

  • Word Balloon League Bendis Discord Book Club SAGA vol 1

    19/07/2025 Duración: 02h12min

    The stunning crossover of the league of word balloon listeners and the bendis discord join forces to discuss the first volume of brian k vaughn and fiona staples sci-fi epic. 

  • Alex Ross Reveals the Hidden Stories Behind Marvels & Kingdom Come pt 2

    18/07/2025 Duración: 01h12min

    n Part 2, Alex opens up about the growing role of AI in art and how it raises serious concerns for creators like himself. We also take a nostalgic turn as he shares his childhood memories of 1960s Japanese animation — Speed Racer — and his thoughts on the rise of modern American adult animation.Alex reflects on the long-overdue recognition of classic comic book creators in today’s Marvel and DC films, and what it meant to meet legends like Jack Kirby and Neal Adams. We revisit the origin stories behind Marvels and Kingdom Come, and reveal a near-miss — when Alex almost helped design a new Gatchaman team for an American rights holder. And for fans of Fantastic Four, Alex shares the story behind his Earth X visions of Marvel’s First Family, and how it continues to influence his creative work.

  • "What Happens When Superman Enters the Public Domain?" Alex Ross pt 1

    17/07/2025 Duración: 01h04min

    In Part 1 of our deep-dive conversation, I’m joined by one of the most influential visual storytellers in comics — Alex Ross. We begin with a look at Alex’s current exhibit, “Heroes and Villains”, now on display at the Dunn Museum in Libertyville, Illinois. It’s a stunning showcase of his iconic artwork, celebrating both the legendary figures of comics and the craftsmanship behind them.From there, we dive into Alex’s work spotlighting public domain superheroes of the 1940s, and we discuss the looming creative shift coming in the 2030s, when characters like Superman and Batman may enter the public domain — and what kind of storytelling opportunities or chaos that might unlock. We also revisit Alex’s graphic novel Fantastic Four: Full Circle, talk about his thoughts on the new Superman movie, and touch on his conversations with Marvel Studios creatives about the evolution of the MCU. Finally, we explore Alex’s candid thoughts on the rise of AI in film and television, its potential dangers for artists, and how c

  • The Man Who Killed (and Resurrected) Superman – Dan Jurgens Returns

    16/07/2025 Duración: 01h31min

    Today, I’m joined by one of the architects of modern Superman lore — Dan Jurgens. From crafting The Death of Superman to introducing two of the most iconic villains in the mythos — Doomsday and Hank Henshaw, the Cyborg Superman — Dan’s work continues to define the Man of Steel for generations of readers.We break down his brand-new 80-page, treasury-sized Superman special, drawn by Bruno Redondo, and how this oversized story captures the timeless ideals of truth and hope at the heart of the character.We also talk about James Gunn’s new Superman film, how it reflects or deviates from the core mythology, and Dan’s thoughts on Superman’s evolving presence in pop culture. Plus, a sneak peek at Dan’s upcoming DC mini-series "Bat-Man: The Second Knight" with artist Mike Perkins — an Elseworlds-style tale that takes 1930 Bruce Wayne down a dramatically different path.

  • The Loeb Report Pt. 3 – Superheroes on Screen: Past, Present & What’s Next

    15/07/2025 Duración: 01h18min

    In this third installment of The Loeb Report, writer and producer Jeph Loeb returns to talk with John about the evolving world of superhero television and film—where it’s been, where it is, and where it’s headed.Loeb gives a candid look at the realities behind the scenes of Marvel TV, discussing the creative and financial challenges that came with making shows like Daredevil, Agent Carter, and more. From tight budgets to balancing quality with studio expectations, it’s an eye-opening look at the business of superhero storytelling. They also dive into the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, unpacking the uncertainty left by the departures of Robert Downey Jr. and Chris Evans. Loeb shares his thoughts on the looming risks tied to upcoming projects like Fantastic Four, Avengers: Doomsday, and Secret Wars, and the franchise’s urgent need for a new leading figure.Plus, more reflections on the Superman film, memories of Smallville, and broader thoughts on the impact of streaming platforms on television product

  • The Loeb Report pt 2 The return to The X-Men At Marvel

    14/07/2025 Duración: 47min

    In Part 2 Loeb discussed his return to Marvel Comics, explaining that he was approached by CB Cebulski  Marvel's editor-in-chief, to write a new X-Men story. Loeb shared his histto run Marvel Television. He expressed interest in writing a story that would affect the main X-Men continuity, rather than creating a separate dream sequence.Loeb and Tom Brevoort,Marvel editor, discussed how to integrate the story of the Age of Apocalypse characters into the main Marvel Universe. The new story will feature characters from different X-Men timelines meeting in the present day.

  • The Loeb Report pt 1 Batman Hush 2 and The Last Halloween and The Superman film

    14/07/2025 Duración: 01h05min

    In Part 1 Jeph discussed his return to Batman comics, sharing insights on his creative process, collaborations with artists, inspired by a tribute to the late Tim Sale. He explained how he approached 10 different artists, all friends of Sale's, to contribute to "Last Halloween". For "Hush 2," with Jim Lee, which will be released as a 12-part story split into two six-issue arcs.Loeb emphasized that the story will not interfere with Matt Fraction's Batman run and will end with a cliffhanger. He also noted that "Hush 2" will be released monthly, with the second half likely coming out after a few month's break 

  • Origins Of The Justice Gang With DeMatties and Maguire

    13/07/2025 Duración: 52min

    Today, we’re throwing it back to a special conversation recorded in 2020 during the virtual Baltimore Comic Con. My guests are the legendary team of J.M. DeMatteis and Kevin Maguire, two of the creative forces—alongside Keith Giffen—behind one of the most beloved and influential Justice League runs of all time.Their groundbreaking late-‘80s take on Justice League International reinvented the team book with heart, humor, and character-driven storytelling. It was a bold departure from grim and gritty trends, instead focusing on the humanity—and hilarity—of heroes like Blue Beetle, Booster Gold, Martian Manhunter, and Guy Gardner. And now, decades later, the spirit of that run has resurfaced in a major way, inspiring the tone and team dynamic of the Justice Gang in the new Superman film from James Gunn’s DCU.

  • "James Robinson: The B-Side King of the DCU"

    12/07/2025 Duración: 54min

    Today’s episode is a deep dive with writer James Robinson, recorded back in 2011 during a fascinating stretch of his DC Comics career. We cover a lot of ground—from his return to one of his most beloved characters in The Shade, spinning off from the Starman mythos, to the behind-the-scenes realities and editorial limitations that shaped his Justice League of America run.Robinson opens up about his creative choices during the Flashpoint event, particularly his darker take on The Outsider, and how the Superman stand-in Mon-El came to headline the Superman books during a major story pivot.We also talk about the launch of the New 52, and his reimagining of the Justice Society of America and Earth-2, showing how he brought fresh perspective to classic Golden Age characters under a new editorial mandate. Throughout the conversation, James shares his passion for DC’s B- and C-list heroes—characters like Solomon Grundy, Donna Troy, and Congorilla—and how he always strived to give them depth and relevance.And for fans

  • Superman Review No Spoilers

    11/07/2025 Duración: 54min

    Today, we’re diving into a no-spoiler review of the brand-new Superman film from writer-director James Gunn. This marks the dawn of a new DC cinematic era, and all eyes are on how Gunn reintroduces the Man of Steel to a modern audience. We’ll talk tone, performances, world-building, and how this version stacks up against previous big-screen takes and beyond. No plot points ruined, no twists revealed—just honest impressions of the filmmaking, the cast, and whether this Superman feels like the hero we’ve been waiting for. If you’re on the fence about seeing it, or just want a vibe check before heading to the theater, this episode’s for you.

  • Sam Humphries New Avengers No Asterix

    10/07/2025 Duración: 01h15min

    Today I’m joined by writer Sam Humphries, who's bringing big energy to Marvel’s latest New Avengers series. We dive into his approach to the team, the surprises in store, and how he's shaking up the lineup.But that’s just the start—Sam also talks about his work in audio storytelling, including his Audible dramas, and reflects on standout runs at DC Comics, from the cosmic challenges of Green Lanterns to the chaotic charm of Harley Quinn. Plus, we revisit his time in front of the camera as one of the hosts of DC Daily, where he brought comic book news and commentary to screens around the world.Comics, audio, screen—Sam’s done it all, and this is a wide-ranging, high-energy conversation you won’t want to miss.

  • The Last Man Of Steel Conversation With Art And Franco

    09/07/2025 Duración: 02h01min

    Today as we anticipate the opening of James Gunn's new Superman film,  we’re flying into a deep discussion on 2013's Man of Steel, the divisive Zack Snyder film that reimagined Superman for a new era.And joining me are two longtime friends of the show and Superman storytellers in their own right—Art Baltazar and Franco, the award-winning creative duo behind Tiny Titans, Superman Adventures, and Superman of Smallville. We compare their vision of the character—lighthearted, hopeful, and kid-friendly—with the darker, more intense take seen in Man of Steel. It’s a fun and thoughtful chat about what makes Superman Superman, and how different creators interpret the Last Son of Krypton.Whether you love Snyder’s film or had issues with it, this conversation offers a fresh perspective from two guys who love the character and have helped pass him on to a whole new generation.Up, up, and let’s get into it.

  • reviewing screens and streams Superman, Nautilus, Ironheart & More

    08/07/2025 Duración: 01h52min

    This week on Word Balloon, it’s a pop culture roundup as we dive into the latest film and TV buzz. From James Gunn’s Superman reboot and the long-delayed Nautilus series finally surfacing, to the creepy Revival and the absurd action of FUBAR with Arnold Schwarzenegger—there’s a lot to break down. We’re also reviewing Marvel’s Ironheart, discussing where it fits in the post-Wakanda Forever timeline,Jurasic World, and taking a pit stop to look at F1, the new racing film aiming to rev up the summer box office. Insight, laughs, and no punches pulled—this is the Word Balloon take on what’s hot (and what’s not) in the world of screens, big and small.

  • Denny O’Neil on The Question, DC and Marvel Days , and His Comic Book Legacy

    06/07/2025 Duración: 01h09min

    In this 2006 conversation, legendary writer and editor Denny O’Neil joins Word Balloon to revisit his groundbreaking 1980s run on The Question, a series that helped redefine the character for a new generation. Originally created by Steve Ditko for Charlton Comics, Vic Sage found new life under O’Neil’s pen—philosophical, gritty, and deeply human.We also explore Denny’s novel Helltown, which digs into Vic Sage’s origin story in a bold new way. Longtime fans will notice some departures from past continuity, but the spirit—and sharp commentary—are pure O’Neil.Plus: Denny shares stories from his early days in comics, working under editors like Julie Schwartz and Stan Lee, and yes, there’s some great Batman talk too—no surprise from the man who helped shape the Dark Knight for over three decades. A must-listen for fans of classic comics, noir storytelling, and one of the true legends of the mediu

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