Word Balloon Comics Podcast

In Part 3 of our conversation with comic book veteran Al Milgrom, we dig into the stories behind the pages — and beyond them. Al shares his memories of the legendary style of Wally Wood and offers insights into the creative genius of Murphy Anderson. Then, the spotlight shifts to the editorial trenches at Marvel. Al opens up about his collaborations and clashes with Jim Shooter, especially during...

In Part 2 of our deep dive with comics legend Al Milgrom, things get even more candid. Al shares shocking behind-the-scenes stories about some of the biggest names from the Golden, Silver, and Bronze Ages of comics—warts and all. From ego clashes to editorial chaos, you’ll hear what really went down in the bullpen. We also detour into the strange world of obscure 1950s and 60s comic book publisher...

On this episode of Word Balloon, we start a 2 part talk with one of the true utility players of the Marvel Bullpen—Al Milgrom. From penciling and inking to editing and writing, Al did it all during a pivotal era at the House of Ideas. We dig into his early days at Marvel, when the bullpen was more than just a nickname—it was a real, bustling office of creative chaos. Al shares memories of hand-del...

My thoughts on the latest MCU film. 

In Part 2 of our conversation with legendary comic creator Jerry Ordway, we pivot from Metropolis to Marvel as Jerry shares his candid thoughts on the legacy and missed opportunities of the Fantastic Four movies—especially from the perspective of someone who’s spent time chronicling Marvel’s first family on the page. We also get some memorable Stan Lee stories, offering insight into the man behind...

Today on Word Balloon, we kick off Part 1 of a deep-dive conversation with legendary writer, artist, and inker Jerry Ordway. Jerry shares his thoughts on the new Superman film and reflects on his own legacy with the Man of Steel—both on the page and behind the scenes. We also dig into his acclaimed work on the Justice Society of America, a cornerstone of DC’s Golden Age revival. But that’s not all...

On this episode of Word Balloon, writer Jeremy Adams returns to break down his high-octane run on Green Lantern and Green Lantern Corps, as well as his recent work on Aquaman. We dive deep into the cosmic drama brewing in the DC Universe, from Hal Jordan’s personal battles to the Corps-wide crises reshaping intergalactic law and order. Plus, Jeremy teases major developments and reveals the big tea...

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...

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 t...

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. Co-Founder David Steinberger and Chip Mosher vp marketing 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,...

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 Su...

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 th...

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. 

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 f...

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...

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,...

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 mo...

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 integrat...

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 tha...

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...

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 hi...

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 revea...

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 Lant...

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 S...