Word Balloon Comics Podcast

Comics writer and cartoonist Kyle Starks joins me to talk about his brand-new Image Comics series, Wrestle Heist — a wild blend of pro-wrestling spectacle and fast-paced crime caper energy. We get into how the idea came together, his trademark mix of humor and heartfelt chaos, and what makes this book stand apart from his previous creator-owned hits.Kyle also discusses his recent work writing Peacemaker for DC’s Black Label, sharing how he brought his offbeat humor and emotional grit to one of DC’s most unpredictable antiheroes. He teases his upcoming Vertigo series debuting next year, which pushes him into darker, more character-driven territory while still keeping his sharp dialogue and storytelling muscle.Plus, we dig into the next wave of creator-owned projects he’s got cooking — from new collaborations to long-planned solo works that show just how versatile and fearless he’s become as a writer.

In part two, writer B. Clay Moore dives into his latest creator-owned projects — the gritty 1970s crime saga Last Flight Out of Wichita from DSTLRY, and the political-horror series Bloodland (Vampires in the White House) from Ignition Press. Plus Netflix is makinga John Cena movie based on Clay and Jeremy Haun's 2007 comic The Leading Man Moore talks about chasing new stories, creative freedom, and pushing beyond the superhero mainstream into bold new worlds.

In Part 1 of this in-depth conversation, writer B. Clay Moore reflects on his early years as the marketing director at Image Comics during the early 2000s — a pivotal era when the company was reinventing itself around a new wave of creator-owned talent.Moore discusses working behind the scenes with emerging voices like Rick Remender and Jonathan Hickman, and how Image’s independent spirit encouraged creators to take bold storytelling risks that reshaped the comics landscape. Moore also dives into the creation of his breakout series Hawaiian Dick, co-created with artist Steven Griffin — a genre-blending mix of crime noir, tiki-era cool, and supernatural mystery that became a critical and cult favorite for Image. He shares how the concept was born, how he and Griffin developed its striking visual tone, and how the book stood out in an industry dominated by superhero titles.The discussion rounds out with Moore recalling his collaboration with Tony Harris at DC Comics on the acclaimed JSA: The Liberty Files — a g

In this 2022 discussion, editor and writer James Aquilone joined Word Balloon to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Kolchak: The Night Stalker — the cult-classic TV franchise that helped define the modern supernatural investigator genre. Aquilone talked about the enduring influence of Darren McGavin’s Carl Kolchak, from The Night Stalker’s 1972 TV movie origins through its single-season series and lasting impact on shows like The X-Files.The conversation also covered Aquilone’s work curating and editing the Moonstone Books graphic novel anthology, a Kickstarter-backed project that united top writers and artists to tell new Kolchak stories spanning five decades of the character’s career — from classic newspaper-era mysteries to modern paranormal cases. He discussed collaborating with Moonstone’s long-time Kolchak publisher, coordinating contributions from creators across genres, and ensuring the stories captured the tone and noir-horror style of the original show. Aquilone reflected on Kolchak’s place in pop cu

In this 2021 Word Balloon conversation, acclaimed writer Ed Brubaker joins John Siuntres to discuss his Eisner-winning crime graphic novel Destroy All Monsters, the third volume in the Reckless series created with longtime collaborator Sean Phillips. Brubaker explains how Destroy All Monsters expands the world of 1980s Los Angeles through the eyes of Ethan Reckless, the one-man fixer caught between Hollywood corruption, fading ideals, and his own haunted past.He talks about how the story draws from the noir tradition of Ross Macdonald and the downbeat realism of 1970s thrillers — but told through the sleek, cinematic storytelling he and Phillips have perfected. The conversation explores how the Reckless books evolved out of Criminal, Fatale, and Kill or Be Killed, why he and Phillips pivoted to the original graphic novel format, and how working with Sean’s son Jacob Phillips for color and design gave the series a distinctive look and rhythm.Brubaker also opens up about his creative process, writing discipline

This week on Trek Watch, John dives into the latest developments from the Star Trek universe. We start with a breakdown and review of Star Trek: Khan — Ceti Alpha V Episode 6, analyzing how the story continues to chart Khan’s descent from visionary leader to vengeful exile. We look at the writing, performances, and how the series ties into both The Original Series and Wrath of Khan.Next, dissecting the brand-new Starfleet Academy trailer, exploring what it reveals about tone, setting, and cast. From the post-Burn timeline to the training-day dynamics, we discuss how this series could expand the modern Trek landscape while reconnecting to the franchise’s roots in mentorship and idealism. Finally, we break down the NYCC 2025 teaser clip from Strange New Worlds Season 4, which teases character arcs, new worlds, and a tonal shift that could set up the series’ boldest season yet. Expect speculation, continuity talk, and a few of our trademark Trek deep cuts along the way.

Acclaimed writer–artist David Lapham joins Word Balloon for an in-depth conversation about his decades in comics and the craft of visual storytelling. Lapham reflects on his early days at Valiant Comics, where he learned the fundamentals of pacing, clarity, and narrative economy under Jim Shooter’s mentorship — lessons that would shape his distinctive storytelling voice.He then traces the creation and evolution of his award-winning crime saga Stray Bullets, from its underground indie roots to its enduring influence on modern noir comics. Lapham discusses how he and his wife Maria Lapham have built a true creative partnership, collaborating on everything from story development to production, keeping the series uncompromisingly personal and authentic.The conversation also explores his time writing and illustrating for the Big Two, including his gritty takes on Batman and Wolverine, where he brought his signature tension and character-driven realism to mainstream heroes.Finally, Lapham gives a preview of his lat

In this episode, I catch up with writer–artist Mike Kunkel, the Eisner Award–winning creator of Herobear and the Kid. Mike talks about the new volumes of Herobear from Papercutz, revisiting his beloved, hand-drawn world of childhood wonder, imagination, and heroism — and how he’s bringing fresh emotional depth and visual storytelling to the series.We also get into his Capstone Books work with Krypto the Superdog and Scooby-Doo, where Mike brings his trademark humor and warmth to stories for younger readers, combining classic mystery fun and superhero action with the same heart that defines his independent work. Finally, Mike shares insights from his run on Shazam! at DC Comics, discussing how he infused Billy Batson’s adventures with his signature animation-inspired energy and heartfelt optimism.

In this in-depth conversation, writer and franchise caretaker Andrew E.C. Gaska joins John Siuntres to discuss his work revitalizing three of science fiction’s most enduring universes — Planet of the Apes, Buck Rogers, and Space: 1999.Gaska talks about balancing canon, continuity, and creativity as he builds connective tissue between classic stories and modern reimaginings. For Planet of the Apes, he explains how his novels Conspiracy of the Planet of the Apes and Death of the Planet of the Apes expand the original film mythology, deepening the lore around the astronauts, the forbidden zone, and the political world of the apes. Turning to Buck Rogers, Gaska outlines his efforts to restore the franchise to its pulp and serial roots, steering away from camp and back toward the raw, forward-looking adventure of Philip Francis Nowlan’s original creation. He also teases his plans for reconnecting Buck’s 20th-century origins with a plausible 25th-century future.Finally, Gaska delves into Space: 1999, discussing his

In this 2018 Word Balloon conversation, comedian, writer, and producer Dana Gould joins John Siuntres for a deep dive into his creative journey adapting Rod Serling’s original Planet of the Apes screenplay into a graphic novel for BOOM! Studios. Gould discusses how Serling’s early drafts differed from the final 1968 film — delving into the satire, social commentary, and Cold War paranoia that Serling originally intended.The interview also explores Gould’s other creative outlets, including his acclaimed “Dana Gould Hour” podcast, where his sharp wit and fascination with old Hollywood, horror, and pop culture shine through. Rounding out the discussion, Gould talks about his work on IFC’s Stan Against Evil — the offbeat supernatural comedy he created and starred in — and how it channels his lifelong love of classic horror and monster movies. It’s a lively, funny, and insightful chat with one of the sharpest minds blending comedy, commentary, and the weird corners of genre storytelling.

Allison give a writers room perspective on the failing of strange new worlds

In this in-depth conversation, legendary painter and storyteller Alex Ross takes listeners behind the curtain of some of his most ambitious and thought-provoking projects across DC, Marvel, and Dynamite.Ross begins with the haunting Batman: Black and White – Case Study, written by Paul Dini, a noir-style exploration of Bruce Wayne’s fractured psyche and the fine line between justice and obsession. He then turns to Avengers/Invaders, co-written with Jim Krueger, a modern-day saga where the original World War II Invaders are thrust into the present-day Marvel Universe. The time-displaced heroes clash with contemporary Avengers, forcing both eras to confront what it truly means to be a hero in vastly different moral landscapes.Next, Ross discusses JSA: Thy Kingdom Come, created with Geoff Johns, Dale Eaglesham, and Fernando Pasarin — a powerful spiritual sequel to Kingdom Come. The story brings the older, war-torn Superman of that alternate Earth into the mainstream DCU, confronting the Justice Society and reexa

In this episode of Word Balloon, cartoonist Dean Haspiel joins John to talk about his new Kickstarter anthology series, Antimatter — a collection spotlighting his signature creator-owned characters including Billy Dogma, The Red Hook, and Chest Face. Haspiel explains how Antimatter brings together stories from across his indie universe, blending love, heroism, and surreal New York energy.The conversation also detours into today’s entertainment landscape, as John and Dean swap thoughts on recent hits and misses in movie theaters and on TV, and what makes storytelling resonate in any medium.https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/deanhaspiel/antimatter/?ref=kicktraq

Comics writer Jim Zub returns to Word Balloon to discuss his work on Conan the Barbarian #25 for Titan Comics, a milestone issue that celebrates both the Cimmerian’s legacy and the current Titan era of storytelling. Zub talks about honoring Robert E. Howard’s classic voice while keeping Conan fresh for modern readers, balancing sword-and-sorcery action with character depth. The conversation also dives into how this special issue bridges past and present creators, what makes Conan timeless, and how Titan’s publishing approach keeps the Barbarian’s adventures thriving for a new generation of fans.

In this 2013 Word Balloon conversation, artist Rags Morales discusses his pivotal work on Action Comics during DC Comics’ New 52 relaunch. Morales reflects on collaborating with writer Grant Morrison to redefine Superman for a new generation—depicting a younger, more grounded Man of Steel in his early years as a social crusader. The discussion explores the creative process behind redesigning the character’s look, the artistic challenges of working on such an iconic title, and how Action Comics helped set the tone for the New 52 era across the DC Universe.

This week on The Kinescope Podcast, John and the panel revisit the gripping 1957 Studio One production “The Night America Trembled.” Hosted by Edward R. Murrow and featuring a remarkable early cast — including Warren Beatty, Ed Asner, Warren Oates, James Coburn, and John Astin — the teleplay dramatizes the nationwide panic sparked by Orson Welles’ infamous 1938 War of the Worlds broadcast. While the story amps up the hysteria for television, it remains a fascinating look at how a single night of radio blurred the line between fact and fiction for millions of listeners.

I embark on an off-ship solo mission to explore the first four episodes of Star Trek: Khan. The discussion dives into the heated fan debate over whether this Secret Hideout–produced audio drama truly belongs in Trek canon. Along the way, Me, Larry Young and memebers of the League weigh continuity questions, franchise history, and the larger implications of re-framing Khan’s story within modern Star Trek lore.

In this dark and thrilling episode, I sit down with comics legends Matt Wagner and Kelley Jones to talk about their gothic team-up on a new Dracula graphic novel series — a fresh, nightmarish take on the Lord of the Undead that blends Hammer horror, classic literature, and modern comics craft. We also dive deep into their iconic Batman work. Matt Wagner reflects on his acclaimed retellings of the Dark Knight’s formative years in Batman and the Monster Men and Batman and the Mad Monk, grounded updates of the original Detective Comics stories that shaped Gotham’s early shadows. Meanwhile, Kelley Jones revisits his unforgettable Batman: Red Rain, a horror-infused Elseworlds classic that reimagines Batman as a literal creature of the night — a vampire battling Dracula himself. Plus: Kelley’s eerie, emotional Deadman mini-series, their shared love of horror as mythmaking, and what it means to push iconic characters into darker, more psychological terrain. A must-listen for fans of Batman, monsters, and the art of

In this haunting episode of Scene Missing, we dive deep into Charles Laughton's singular directorial masterpiece, The Night of the Hunter (1955). From its expressionist visual style to Robert Mitchum’s chilling performance as the murderous preacher Harry Powell, we break down what makes this Southern Gothic thriller a one-of-a-kind cinematic experience.We explore the film’s dreamlike atmosphere, the fairy tale overtones, and how it slipped through the cracks in its time — only to be recognized decades later as one of the most influential American films ever made. Join us as we unpack its themes of good vs. evil, childhood innocence, and religious hypocrisy, all framed by some of the most striking black-and-white cinematography ever put on screen.